NPR's Book of the Day Dorie Greenspan and Paul Hollywood discuss their new and nourishing cake cookbooks
Dec 26, 2025
Dorie Greenspan, a celebrated cookbook author known for her approachable baking, and Paul Hollywood, the famed Great British Bake Off judge, share insights on their new cake cookbooks. Greenspan emphasizes the beauty of simple, comforting cakes and offers tips on personalizing recipes. Hollywood aims to inspire joyful family baking with indulgent treats like chocolate fudge cake and British classics. They both advocate for beginner bakers, making the art of cake-making accessible and fun for everyone.
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Homey Baking Over Baking Gymnastics
- Dorie Greenspan centers baking on approachable, familiar cakes rather than showy, technical creations.
- She calls these cakes "welcoming" because they invite sharing and everyday enjoyment.
Brooklyn Cake Memories
- Dorie recalls growing up in Brooklyn where her mother bought cakes from local bakeries rather than baking them.
- That childhood exposure taught her that cake can be comforting and ever-present in a home.
Tradition Meets Play In Marble Cakes
- Marble and bundt cakes carry deep historical roots yet remain playful templates for variation.
- Greenspan uses simple swirls and modern flavors like matcha to refresh traditional forms.