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A New Take on Cake: 175 Beautiful, Doable Cake Mix Recipes for Bundts, Layers, Slabs, Loaves, Cookies, and More! A Baking Book
Turn a cake mix into a cake masterpiece! Discover 175 decadent and quick modern recipes with from-scratch flavor from the bestselling author of The Cake Mix Doctor .
Anne Byrn is known for her cake mix magic, and A New Take onCake makes baking from a boxed mix as inspiring as it is easy—everything from vegan tortes to gluten-free cakes, doughnuts to cake pops, and whoopie pies to a wedding cake. All for snacking, celebrating, and everything in between!
With 50 modernized classics and 125 brand-new recipes, no one will believe your Ice Cream Cone Cake, Vegan Chocolate Cake with Creamy Nutella Frosting, or Blood Orange Loaf with Campari Glaze were made from boxed mixes. Whether you are following a gluten-free, sugar-free, or plant-based diet, or are just a fan of a good old-fashioned yellow layer cake with chocolate fudge icing, you’ll find your calling—and won’t have to spend all day making it.
Anne Byrn is known for her cake mix magic, and A New Take onCake makes baking from a boxed mix as inspiring as it is easy—everything from vegan tortes to gluten-free cakes, doughnuts to cake pops, and whoopie pies to a wedding cake. All for snacking, celebrating, and everything in between!
With 50 modernized classics and 125 brand-new recipes, no one will believe your Ice Cream Cone Cake, Vegan Chocolate Cake with Creamy Nutella Frosting, or Blood Orange Loaf with Campari Glaze were made from boxed mixes. Whether you are following a gluten-free, sugar-free, or plant-based diet, or are just a fan of a good old-fashioned yellow layer cake with chocolate fudge icing, you’ll find your calling—and won’t have to spend all day making it.
384 pages, Paperback
Published November 16, 2021
59 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
February 12, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
A new take on Cake is a fun and simple way of making delicious cakes, both traditional and modern, using packet cake mixes to help save money and time. The book has lots of tips and ideas on expanding on the cake mix to make some fabulous cakes. Each recipe is set out in simple, step-by-step instruction, and at the beginning of the book, there is a small photo of each cake you can refer back to. There's some great information on the vast type of equipment to use and for making the icing and butter creams, too. I've got my eye on a few recipes I'm going to try out myself that sound and look delicious.
A new take on Cake is a fun and simple way of making delicious cakes, both traditional and modern, using packet cake mixes to help save money and time. The book has lots of tips and ideas on expanding on the cake mix to make some fabulous cakes. Each recipe is set out in simple, step-by-step instruction, and at the beginning of the book, there is a small photo of each cake you can refer back to. There's some great information on the vast type of equipment to use and for making the icing and butter creams, too. I've got my eye on a few recipes I'm going to try out myself that sound and look delicious.
October 5, 2021
This is a modern cookbook from the author of the Cake Doctor books. I was hoping that she'd offer some recipes to make your own cake mixes if you don't want to buy them, but she still relies on mixes even though she then adds a bunch of steps and ingredients to most of them. She calls herself a feminist for this and seems to think she's somehow liberated women, but I avoid cake mixes because they are more expensive, less healthy and generally full of crap. I don't want to cook with cake mixes, even organic ones that cost the price of your average black market spleen.
I also need to cook gluten free for my kids and few of these recipes work for GF cakes even though they rely on purchased mixes, because GF mixes will perform differently. There are a few recipes that call for GF mixes, but again, I don't want to buy mixes. Most of the gluten free mixes list sugar as the first ingredient and rice flour as the second, which is gritty and has the nutritional content of finely shredded paper (actually worse, since that would have more fiber). I know that nobody makes cakes to cook healthy, but I do prefer to skip the absolute garbage that is in your average cake mix. Propylene Glycol Mono and Diesters, anyone? Eh. No thanks.
All that said, it's filled with very pretty cakes and all kinds of variety. There are a ton of cakes and lots of photos. No nutritional information is provided.
This obviously is not a great cookbook for me but it's likely to be a huge hit with the average busy Standard American Diet cook, and I appreciate that Byrn has included some recipes and information for those who cook gluten free, vegan, egg-free, etc. Three stars for "liked it" despite the fact that it's not a book I'd really use.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
I also need to cook gluten free for my kids and few of these recipes work for GF cakes even though they rely on purchased mixes, because GF mixes will perform differently. There are a few recipes that call for GF mixes, but again, I don't want to buy mixes. Most of the gluten free mixes list sugar as the first ingredient and rice flour as the second, which is gritty and has the nutritional content of finely shredded paper (actually worse, since that would have more fiber). I know that nobody makes cakes to cook healthy, but I do prefer to skip the absolute garbage that is in your average cake mix. Propylene Glycol Mono and Diesters, anyone? Eh. No thanks.
All that said, it's filled with very pretty cakes and all kinds of variety. There are a ton of cakes and lots of photos. No nutritional information is provided.
This obviously is not a great cookbook for me but it's likely to be a huge hit with the average busy Standard American Diet cook, and I appreciate that Byrn has included some recipes and information for those who cook gluten free, vegan, egg-free, etc. Three stars for "liked it" despite the fact that it's not a book I'd really use.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
April 11, 2022
Five Stars!
My mom had a well-loved copy of Anne Byrn's The Cake Mix Doctor which she passed down to me when I began baking as a teenager. Since then, I've honed my skills, and can usually whip up a pretty good cake. But let's be honest, it's not always the easiest thing to do, and it can be pretty time consuming to start from scratch. (Because sometimes you just need a cake and need it fast, if you know what I mean!) I was happy to see that she has written a follow up to her bestselling book, updating flavors, ingredients, and techniques.
A New Take On Cake is just an absolute pleasure to read. Anne is a warm writer and understanding teacher. Nothing is over-complicated. The book is filled with absolutely gorgeous photography, letting the beauty of the baked goods shine for themselves. Anne's "Cook's Notes" are so helpful, as is the opening chapter with information on everything from choosing the right pans and tools, to making your cake work for you and your taste. Plus, the cake recipes are just delicious!
No matter what your skill level, A New Take On Cake is a great addition to your bookshelf.
My mom had a well-loved copy of Anne Byrn's The Cake Mix Doctor which she passed down to me when I began baking as a teenager. Since then, I've honed my skills, and can usually whip up a pretty good cake. But let's be honest, it's not always the easiest thing to do, and it can be pretty time consuming to start from scratch. (Because sometimes you just need a cake and need it fast, if you know what I mean!) I was happy to see that she has written a follow up to her bestselling book, updating flavors, ingredients, and techniques.
A New Take On Cake is just an absolute pleasure to read. Anne is a warm writer and understanding teacher. Nothing is over-complicated. The book is filled with absolutely gorgeous photography, letting the beauty of the baked goods shine for themselves. Anne's "Cook's Notes" are so helpful, as is the opening chapter with information on everything from choosing the right pans and tools, to making your cake work for you and your taste. Plus, the cake recipes are just delicious!
No matter what your skill level, A New Take On Cake is a great addition to your bookshelf.
October 12, 2021
A New Take on Cake by Anne Byrn is off to a beautiful start is several pages of thumbnail photos depicting on the cakes found in the recipe section. When I saw the photos I was enchanted and looked forward to reading more about the recipes found in Byrn's updated cake cookbook. I was pleased to find many cake recipes that were created to work with updated cake mixes or diets.
Some of the recipes you'll find in her cookbook include;
New Fashioned Yellow Cake with Chocolate Buttercream
The Confetti Cake
Deep South Strawberry Cake
Little Yellow Birthday Cake
Lavender, Vanilla Blueberry Baby Cake
Chocolate Praline Cake
Recommend.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
Some of the recipes you'll find in her cookbook include;
New Fashioned Yellow Cake with Chocolate Buttercream
The Confetti Cake
Deep South Strawberry Cake
Little Yellow Birthday Cake
Lavender, Vanilla Blueberry Baby Cake
Chocolate Praline Cake
Recommend.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
September 29, 2021
Such a sweet cookbook, filled with all kinds of baked things to make by doctoring up cake mixes to come up with something much better. I saw quite a few that I want to try for family birthdays, holidays etc. There is also a lot of information on how-to’s, like changing baking times for different types & sizes of pans, and various substitutions. It’s just filled with a lot of neat ideas and information. I especially liked the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake. Advance electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author Anne Byrn, and the publisher.
January 22, 2022
I liked this cookbook much more than I expected, even though I can't quite shake the feeling that using boxed cake mixes is somehow "cheating." That said, I really thought the extensions were clever, the photography was utterly gorgeous, and the remixed recipes were things I'd really want to make. So if you want to save a few steps, this is recommended. **Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2021
The short version:
This book is great for fast and easy cakes, but it’s maybe not best for an experienced baker with a lot of time to devote to baking. For people short on time, like me, it really is a great resource, with the caveat that I think more expensive cake mixes make better recipes. But for me, right now, because of that Reese’s cake, this is a five-star book.
The long version:
Before receiving this book, I had never baked a cake from a mix before. I have nothing against them, it’s just that I’m an avid baker, so I always have all cake ingredients on hand and buying a separate box of mix to make a cake just felt like a useless expense. But I have a new baby, I’m baking at a high altitude these days so a lot of stand-by cakes are suddenly collapsing, and I received a free copy of this book from Clarkson Potter in exchange for a free an unbiased review so I thought, why not.
What I love about this book:
First, reading through the book, I really fell in love with Anne Byrn’s writing and approach to baking. She is a warm and welcoming writer, and she really takes into consideration all levels of experience, all stages of life, and all types of financial situations without ever being judgmental or patronizing. For example, she is the only cookbook author I have seen mention in a baking book the exorbitant cost of vanilla these days. There have been times in my life where any amount of vanilla in a recipe over a teaspoon made me cringe because of the cost, and it was so refreshing to have an author acknowledge that.
Second, this book is absolutely packed with ideas and experience. There are 175 recipes! That is a lot for one book. And because Byrn has written extensively on cake (check out her book American Cake—it’s a wonderful read) she adapts a lot of the greatest hits and classic recipes into mix recipes. She also adapts them to current sensibilities. There are vegan and gluten-free cakes, cakes based on pantry staples, and cakes that cut down on excess sugar. There are bundts, cookies, mini-cakes, cookies, and more!
Third, one of the cakes I made from this book, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake, was outstanding. I received so many compliments on it, I was almost offended on behalf on my scratch cakes (ha!). The other three recipes I made—Our Favorite Pumpkin Cake, Stacy’s Chocolate Chip Cake, Double Chocolate Drop Cookies—were good and definitely easy. But here’s the thing: the Reese’s cake I made with a fancy mix (Whole Foods brand, around $3). The other three I made with Betty Crocker ($1.20), and with all due respect to Betty, I just don’t think they tasted as good.
Fourth, these really were really very easy, reliable, and (bonus for me!) quiet. I could make them in one bowl while the baby napped without any advance planning using a mixing bowl and a spoon so I didn’t have to turn on a loud mixer. And they all rose wonderfully despite the altitude. I put together a pretty good Halloween and Birthday Party with very little time because of these cakes.
Fifth, if you keep cake mixes on hand you can fully have a pantry cake ready to go in no time. Byrn writes a lot of recipes to work with canned coconut milk. That’s pretty awesome!
My criticisms:
Is a cake mix really faster or easier than, say, a one-bowl snacking cake made with vegetable oil? Not necessarily. But it is the fastest way I’ve ever made a showstopping layer cake.
Is using a cake mix easier or cheaper? I think I now will stock a few mixes, but if you keep all baking ingredients on hand anyway, it’s not necessarily easier or cheaper. (I had to make a special trip to the store to get a mix.) If you don’t, however, and you always have an eye to sales and coupons, it probably is less expensive. As I found out, though, I’m not sure if using the cheapest cake mix is the best option for these recipes.
Is it useful if you’re a seasoned baker without a little baby and/or a full-time job? I’m not sure. I probably would find this book it a little less appealing at a different stage in my life.
All that aside, the pros really outweigh the cons for me, and I’m so happy to have this book.
(One last thing: I didn’t pay for this book, but I would have—and I’ve also gone out and bought a bunch of other Anne Byrn books. She’s a wonderful author.)
This book is great for fast and easy cakes, but it’s maybe not best for an experienced baker with a lot of time to devote to baking. For people short on time, like me, it really is a great resource, with the caveat that I think more expensive cake mixes make better recipes. But for me, right now, because of that Reese’s cake, this is a five-star book.
The long version:
Before receiving this book, I had never baked a cake from a mix before. I have nothing against them, it’s just that I’m an avid baker, so I always have all cake ingredients on hand and buying a separate box of mix to make a cake just felt like a useless expense. But I have a new baby, I’m baking at a high altitude these days so a lot of stand-by cakes are suddenly collapsing, and I received a free copy of this book from Clarkson Potter in exchange for a free an unbiased review so I thought, why not.
What I love about this book:
First, reading through the book, I really fell in love with Anne Byrn’s writing and approach to baking. She is a warm and welcoming writer, and she really takes into consideration all levels of experience, all stages of life, and all types of financial situations without ever being judgmental or patronizing. For example, she is the only cookbook author I have seen mention in a baking book the exorbitant cost of vanilla these days. There have been times in my life where any amount of vanilla in a recipe over a teaspoon made me cringe because of the cost, and it was so refreshing to have an author acknowledge that.
Second, this book is absolutely packed with ideas and experience. There are 175 recipes! That is a lot for one book. And because Byrn has written extensively on cake (check out her book American Cake—it’s a wonderful read) she adapts a lot of the greatest hits and classic recipes into mix recipes. She also adapts them to current sensibilities. There are vegan and gluten-free cakes, cakes based on pantry staples, and cakes that cut down on excess sugar. There are bundts, cookies, mini-cakes, cookies, and more!
Third, one of the cakes I made from this book, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake, was outstanding. I received so many compliments on it, I was almost offended on behalf on my scratch cakes (ha!). The other three recipes I made—Our Favorite Pumpkin Cake, Stacy’s Chocolate Chip Cake, Double Chocolate Drop Cookies—were good and definitely easy. But here’s the thing: the Reese’s cake I made with a fancy mix (Whole Foods brand, around $3). The other three I made with Betty Crocker ($1.20), and with all due respect to Betty, I just don’t think they tasted as good.
Fourth, these really were really very easy, reliable, and (bonus for me!) quiet. I could make them in one bowl while the baby napped without any advance planning using a mixing bowl and a spoon so I didn’t have to turn on a loud mixer. And they all rose wonderfully despite the altitude. I put together a pretty good Halloween and Birthday Party with very little time because of these cakes.
Fifth, if you keep cake mixes on hand you can fully have a pantry cake ready to go in no time. Byrn writes a lot of recipes to work with canned coconut milk. That’s pretty awesome!
My criticisms:
Is a cake mix really faster or easier than, say, a one-bowl snacking cake made with vegetable oil? Not necessarily. But it is the fastest way I’ve ever made a showstopping layer cake.
Is using a cake mix easier or cheaper? I think I now will stock a few mixes, but if you keep all baking ingredients on hand anyway, it’s not necessarily easier or cheaper. (I had to make a special trip to the store to get a mix.) If you don’t, however, and you always have an eye to sales and coupons, it probably is less expensive. As I found out, though, I’m not sure if using the cheapest cake mix is the best option for these recipes.
Is it useful if you’re a seasoned baker without a little baby and/or a full-time job? I’m not sure. I probably would find this book it a little less appealing at a different stage in my life.
All that aside, the pros really outweigh the cons for me, and I’m so happy to have this book.
(One last thing: I didn’t pay for this book, but I would have—and I’ve also gone out and bought a bunch of other Anne Byrn books. She’s a wonderful author.)
September 23, 2021
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a cute book!
It's a surprisingly thorough dive into making cakes using cake mixes and other helpful tips. This book is full of traditional cakes and alternations using a mix to save time and money with twists. The book includes recipes for cakes, icings, fillings, cookies, and more.
The book is pretty thorough in introducing the ideas of these approaches and ingredients. All of the instructions start with "make the cake" which I think is kind of funny, but the recipes go into more detail on how to make each recipe. There are some beautiful pictures of some of the cakes, some are fairly simple which is nice.
Overall an interesting find.
This is a cute book!
It's a surprisingly thorough dive into making cakes using cake mixes and other helpful tips. This book is full of traditional cakes and alternations using a mix to save time and money with twists. The book includes recipes for cakes, icings, fillings, cookies, and more.
The book is pretty thorough in introducing the ideas of these approaches and ingredients. All of the instructions start with "make the cake" which I think is kind of funny, but the recipes go into more detail on how to make each recipe. There are some beautiful pictures of some of the cakes, some are fairly simple which is nice.
Overall an interesting find.
November 17, 2021
I still remember when my aunt gifted me a copy of The Cake Mix Doctor, which had become her favorite baking book. She wanted me to share in her excitement at finding delicious cakes using store-bought cake mixes as a shortcut. I loved the idea, and I loved the cookbook. Now, author Anne Byrn is back with A New Take on Cake, the same idea but updated for today’s baker.
A lot has changed in cake baking in twenty years. Somewhere along the way, the size of cake mixes shrank, a sign of a challenging economy. We added new flavors to our pantries, so now we have plant butters and chocolate hazelnut spreads in our cabinets, We have blood oranges and mangoes in the fruit bowl, tahini and coconut milk and ginger in the pantry. We need to find recipes that fit with a diet that is gluten-free or dairy-free or vegan. We want less sugar and more fruits or even vegetables. We want to create masterpieces that look like they can compete on a baking competition show, but we don’t have any extra time to spend on our creations.
A New Take on Cake is here for all of that. Whether you want a classic layer cake like the New-Fashioned Yellow Cake with Chocolate Buttercream or a Boston Cream Pie, or you want something new like a Vegan Seltzer Cake or a Limoncello Cake, they’re all here, along with a Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Cake, Apple Cider Cake with Cider Glaze, 7Up Pound Cake, Chocolate Chip Tahini Loaf, Blueberry Cornmeal Skillet Cake, Roasted Strawberry Upside-Down Cake, Roasted Sweet Potato Snack Cake, Matcha Mint Cupcakes, and so many more.
But it’s not just cakes. There are also recipes for muffins, cheesecakes, and even cookies. You can use these recipes and a store-bought cake mix to make Basic Sugar Cookies, Peanut Butter Cookies, Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, Gingerbread People, Brown Butter Blondies, Easy and Good Lemon Squares, Whoopie Pies, or even Cranberry-Orange Biscotti.
There are recipes for buttercreams and ganache, frostings and curds, drizzles and whipped creams. Byrn even includes tips for frosting and ideas for decorating, from a naked layer cake (no frosting on the sides) to a DIY Wedding Cake. There are lots of beautiful photos throughout the book, to offer serving suggestions and inspiration for your own ideas of flavoring and decoration.
I love this cookbook, in part because it connects me to a piece of my baking past. But mostly I love that Byrn has taken her ideas and updated them to a new generation of bakers. This is a great gift idea for anyone just starting their baking journey, or for busy people who love a good cake. Using the cake mix saves time and money and pantry space, but these recipes don’t taste or look like a typical boxed mix cake. There is a depth of flavor and an artistry to these cakes that will make them perfect for a celebration, a weeknight dessert, or even a weekend breakfast that feels special and warm and comforting.
A copy of A New Take on Cake was provided by Clarkson Potter for a free and unbiased review, with many thanks.
A lot has changed in cake baking in twenty years. Somewhere along the way, the size of cake mixes shrank, a sign of a challenging economy. We added new flavors to our pantries, so now we have plant butters and chocolate hazelnut spreads in our cabinets, We have blood oranges and mangoes in the fruit bowl, tahini and coconut milk and ginger in the pantry. We need to find recipes that fit with a diet that is gluten-free or dairy-free or vegan. We want less sugar and more fruits or even vegetables. We want to create masterpieces that look like they can compete on a baking competition show, but we don’t have any extra time to spend on our creations.
A New Take on Cake is here for all of that. Whether you want a classic layer cake like the New-Fashioned Yellow Cake with Chocolate Buttercream or a Boston Cream Pie, or you want something new like a Vegan Seltzer Cake or a Limoncello Cake, they’re all here, along with a Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Cake, Apple Cider Cake with Cider Glaze, 7Up Pound Cake, Chocolate Chip Tahini Loaf, Blueberry Cornmeal Skillet Cake, Roasted Strawberry Upside-Down Cake, Roasted Sweet Potato Snack Cake, Matcha Mint Cupcakes, and so many more.
But it’s not just cakes. There are also recipes for muffins, cheesecakes, and even cookies. You can use these recipes and a store-bought cake mix to make Basic Sugar Cookies, Peanut Butter Cookies, Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, Gingerbread People, Brown Butter Blondies, Easy and Good Lemon Squares, Whoopie Pies, or even Cranberry-Orange Biscotti.
There are recipes for buttercreams and ganache, frostings and curds, drizzles and whipped creams. Byrn even includes tips for frosting and ideas for decorating, from a naked layer cake (no frosting on the sides) to a DIY Wedding Cake. There are lots of beautiful photos throughout the book, to offer serving suggestions and inspiration for your own ideas of flavoring and decoration.
I love this cookbook, in part because it connects me to a piece of my baking past. But mostly I love that Byrn has taken her ideas and updated them to a new generation of bakers. This is a great gift idea for anyone just starting their baking journey, or for busy people who love a good cake. Using the cake mix saves time and money and pantry space, but these recipes don’t taste or look like a typical boxed mix cake. There is a depth of flavor and an artistry to these cakes that will make them perfect for a celebration, a weeknight dessert, or even a weekend breakfast that feels special and warm and comforting.
A copy of A New Take on Cake was provided by Clarkson Potter for a free and unbiased review, with many thanks.
December 1, 2021
A NEW TAKE ON CAKE: 175 BEAUTIFUL, DOABLE CAKE MIX RECIPES FOR BUNDTS, LAYERS, SLABS, LOAVES, COOKIES, AND MORE.
BY: ANNE BYRN
I really just love cookbooks so I was excited to see that I got the opportunity to read and review this latest offering from Anne Byrn. I thought that the beautiful illustrations of these delectable and delicious easy to make recipes makes me want to try several of them. I had not been familiar with this Author, Anne Byrn's other cookbooks but this one is so full of time saving tips on how to create such fancy and mouth watering desserts. I appreciated all of the tips on recommendations that this Author so generously included about the variations of different types of cake pans and how they affected certain results of how her experiences were baking her vast amount of cakes. She says to always invest in good pans. For Example choose metal cake pans versus silicone or glass. Also she encourages buying shiny over dark cake pans. The dark pans can darken the sides of your cake. She includes a checklist of favorite baking tools. I was surprised to learn why I could never find cake mixes with pudding in the middle (my old standby for moist chocolate cakes).
I am definitely buying a print copy of not only this one but many her other cookbooks including her original classic she wrote over twenty years ago called, "The Cake Mix Doctor," which became a bestseller virtually overnight. I am surprised that this is the first I have ever heard of her. Whether you are vegan or gluten free this latest cookbook will inspire you to try regardless of your baking skills. I want to try making her gorgeous looking Gluten Free Vanilla Cake with Cherry Buttercream which looks similar to the most delicious cake that my good friend had served bought from a Bakery in which I had never been able until now to find until now. I am off to bake that cake.
Publication Date: November 16, 2021
Thank you to Net Galley, Anne Byrn and Clarkson Potter-Ten Speed Press for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#ANewTakeonCake #AnneByrn #NetGalley #ClarksonPotterTenSpeedPress
BY: ANNE BYRN
I really just love cookbooks so I was excited to see that I got the opportunity to read and review this latest offering from Anne Byrn. I thought that the beautiful illustrations of these delectable and delicious easy to make recipes makes me want to try several of them. I had not been familiar with this Author, Anne Byrn's other cookbooks but this one is so full of time saving tips on how to create such fancy and mouth watering desserts. I appreciated all of the tips on recommendations that this Author so generously included about the variations of different types of cake pans and how they affected certain results of how her experiences were baking her vast amount of cakes. She says to always invest in good pans. For Example choose metal cake pans versus silicone or glass. Also she encourages buying shiny over dark cake pans. The dark pans can darken the sides of your cake. She includes a checklist of favorite baking tools. I was surprised to learn why I could never find cake mixes with pudding in the middle (my old standby for moist chocolate cakes).
I am definitely buying a print copy of not only this one but many her other cookbooks including her original classic she wrote over twenty years ago called, "The Cake Mix Doctor," which became a bestseller virtually overnight. I am surprised that this is the first I have ever heard of her. Whether you are vegan or gluten free this latest cookbook will inspire you to try regardless of your baking skills. I want to try making her gorgeous looking Gluten Free Vanilla Cake with Cherry Buttercream which looks similar to the most delicious cake that my good friend had served bought from a Bakery in which I had never been able until now to find until now. I am off to bake that cake.
Publication Date: November 16, 2021
Thank you to Net Galley, Anne Byrn and Clarkson Potter-Ten Speed Press for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#ANewTakeonCake #AnneByrn #NetGalley #ClarksonPotterTenSpeedPress
March 1, 2022
A New Take on Cake is a great addition to the Anne Byrn line of cookbooks, designed around elevating the cake mix to new levels. The cookbook has colorful layouts, with easy to follow recipe instructions. There are great introductory pages that include strategies, tools, equipment, decoration ideas for the finished baked goods, and frosting techniques. The cookbook is divided into sections, which I have listed below with some of the standouts.
Layer Up: Buttermilk Devil's Food Cake; Vegan Seltzer Cake; Favorite German Chocolate Cake
Baby Cakes: Baked Alaska Baby Cake; Flowerpot Cakes
Bundts, Pounds, and Loaves: Hershey's Bar Pound Cake; Neopolitan Swirl Pound Cake; Maple Nut Coffee Cake; Chocolate Chip Tahini Loaf
Skillets and Springforms: Pineapple Upside Down Cake; Caramelized Bananas Foster Skillet Cake; Vegan Chocolate Tangerine Cake
Snack Cakes and Slabs: Lazy Daisy Cake; Roasted Sweet Potato Snack Cake; Black-and-Blueberry Buckle
Cupcakes, Muffins, and More: Gluten-Free Chocolate Macaroon Cupcakes; Key Lime Pie Cupcakes; Microwave Mug Sprinkle Cakes
Cookies, Bars, and Bites: Cookie Pops; Cashew Thumbprints; Brown Butter Blondies; Petit Fours
Frostings, Fillings, and Glazes: Vanilla and Vegan Vanilla Buttercream; Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting; Quick Caramel Frosting
The Cake Pantry: must haves for success
Overall, I enjoyed reading this cookbook. There are many recipes that I look forward to trying in the future and I would recommend to other readers.
Disclaimer: I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy by NetGalley and the publisher, Clarkson Potter. The decision to read and review this cookbook was entirely my own.
Layer Up: Buttermilk Devil's Food Cake; Vegan Seltzer Cake; Favorite German Chocolate Cake
Baby Cakes: Baked Alaska Baby Cake; Flowerpot Cakes
Bundts, Pounds, and Loaves: Hershey's Bar Pound Cake; Neopolitan Swirl Pound Cake; Maple Nut Coffee Cake; Chocolate Chip Tahini Loaf
Skillets and Springforms: Pineapple Upside Down Cake; Caramelized Bananas Foster Skillet Cake; Vegan Chocolate Tangerine Cake
Snack Cakes and Slabs: Lazy Daisy Cake; Roasted Sweet Potato Snack Cake; Black-and-Blueberry Buckle
Cupcakes, Muffins, and More: Gluten-Free Chocolate Macaroon Cupcakes; Key Lime Pie Cupcakes; Microwave Mug Sprinkle Cakes
Cookies, Bars, and Bites: Cookie Pops; Cashew Thumbprints; Brown Butter Blondies; Petit Fours
Frostings, Fillings, and Glazes: Vanilla and Vegan Vanilla Buttercream; Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting; Quick Caramel Frosting
The Cake Pantry: must haves for success
Overall, I enjoyed reading this cookbook. There are many recipes that I look forward to trying in the future and I would recommend to other readers.
Disclaimer: I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy by NetGalley and the publisher, Clarkson Potter. The decision to read and review this cookbook was entirely my own.
November 29, 2021
Anne Byrn has published several bestselling cookbooks with recipes using cake mixes. Almost everyone who likes to bake owns at least one of these. She doesn’t seem to quit, however, and her newest cookbook, A New Take on Cake: 175 Beautiful, Doable Cake Mix Recipes for Bundts, Layers, Slabs, Loaves, Cookies, and More! A Baking Book is ready for bakers and non-bakers everywhere to bake some new treats. Just like her previous excellent cookbooks, the recipes start with a cake mix (and often a pudding mix, too), so there isn’t a lot of measuring. The cakes, however, turn out perfectly every time and taste homemade. As far as cakes go, Anne Byrn is a genius.
Most of the recipes have minimal ingredients, making them faster to put together. They are written in standard recipe form and are easy to follow. There is no limit to Byrn’s imagination, and there are cakes of every flavor and variety to choose from. Another plus to this cookbook is that there are beautiful photographs of almost every cake, as well as special ones such as gluten free and vegan for those on special diets.
Included are Bundt cakes, loaf cakes, cupcakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and even a DIY wedding cake. This cookbook has enough fun recipes that even if you own Byrn’s previous books, you’ll want to own this one as well. It will certainly be one that is used often.
Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.
Most of the recipes have minimal ingredients, making them faster to put together. They are written in standard recipe form and are easy to follow. There is no limit to Byrn’s imagination, and there are cakes of every flavor and variety to choose from. Another plus to this cookbook is that there are beautiful photographs of almost every cake, as well as special ones such as gluten free and vegan for those on special diets.
Included are Bundt cakes, loaf cakes, cupcakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and even a DIY wedding cake. This cookbook has enough fun recipes that even if you own Byrn’s previous books, you’ll want to own this one as well. It will certainly be one that is used often.
Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.
July 18, 2022
This cookbook is a very unique one, but in that way, I think it could be the perfect cookbook for the right person.
I know in baking, it’s almost a cardinal sin to use box mix when the product of a homemade cake is so much better, but that is why I appreciate this book so much. It recognizes the use of boxed cake mixes, but works to correct its faults by adding a few ingredients and steps to take it to the next level. For that reason, I think this is the perfect book for the busy baker who just needs a cake and needs it quick. There are a wide variety of recipes and icing recipes and they all contribute to your ability to make an easy and quick cake that tastes far better than your average box mix.
That said, my one con with this book is that it is hard to know exactly how much her recipes improve the box mixes without first trying them. I’m trusting that her premise is true and her cakes are better, but pictures unfortunately cannot account for the quality of the flavour in this case, so it is definitely something you need to take on faith more than anything else. That said, it is still a good book that has a lot of potential and is perfect for people in a rush or people just looking for a bit more ease in their baking.
Special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for an online copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I know in baking, it’s almost a cardinal sin to use box mix when the product of a homemade cake is so much better, but that is why I appreciate this book so much. It recognizes the use of boxed cake mixes, but works to correct its faults by adding a few ingredients and steps to take it to the next level. For that reason, I think this is the perfect book for the busy baker who just needs a cake and needs it quick. There are a wide variety of recipes and icing recipes and they all contribute to your ability to make an easy and quick cake that tastes far better than your average box mix.
That said, my one con with this book is that it is hard to know exactly how much her recipes improve the box mixes without first trying them. I’m trusting that her premise is true and her cakes are better, but pictures unfortunately cannot account for the quality of the flavour in this case, so it is definitely something you need to take on faith more than anything else. That said, it is still a good book that has a lot of potential and is perfect for people in a rush or people just looking for a bit more ease in their baking.
Special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for an online copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2021
In this fabulous updated remake of The Cake Mix Doctor, the author offers a fresh new collection of cake recipes using modern techniques and ingredients such as coconut milk, tahini, plant butters and matcha. Her answer when asked, “why a cake mix” is to allow us to “bake and enjoy the ‘tangible events of life’ but spend all day doing it”.
In this cake book there are recipes to please anybody, including many yummy vegan and gluten free options. Some of the unique recipes that stood out were the decadent Deep South Strawberry Cake, a tart Limoncello Cake, a Melted Ice Cream cake, a stunning Neapolitan Loaf and even a Costco Cake! There are also recipes for cheesecakes, coffee cakes, cookies, bars, slabs and cupcakes including a recipe for Sweet Tea Cupcakes with Lemon Butter Cream, OMG! There’s also a recipe for Homemade Cool Whip! This cookbook is chock full of big, beautiful, mouthwatering photos. I imagine the hard copy of this book will be lovely enough that it could proudly grace a coffee table.
Thank you to Netgalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and Anne Byrn for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
In this cake book there are recipes to please anybody, including many yummy vegan and gluten free options. Some of the unique recipes that stood out were the decadent Deep South Strawberry Cake, a tart Limoncello Cake, a Melted Ice Cream cake, a stunning Neapolitan Loaf and even a Costco Cake! There are also recipes for cheesecakes, coffee cakes, cookies, bars, slabs and cupcakes including a recipe for Sweet Tea Cupcakes with Lemon Butter Cream, OMG! There’s also a recipe for Homemade Cool Whip! This cookbook is chock full of big, beautiful, mouthwatering photos. I imagine the hard copy of this book will be lovely enough that it could proudly grace a coffee table.
Thank you to Netgalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and Anne Byrn for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 8, 2021
This cookbook is a keeper! Ann Byrn's first cookbook, The Cake Doctor is 20 years old and times have changed. A New Take on Cake is written for the downsized cake mixes, modern tastes (less sugar) and includes gluten and vegan recipes. Each recipe is accompanied by a full color picture and clear, concise instructions.
A seasoned baker will most likely pooh-pooh the recipes but anyone pressed for time or a bit uncertain on baking skills will find it most useful. The "showstoppers" are especially enticing - they looks as good as anything I've seen on The Great British Baking Show but won't take hours and hours and hours of effort. She also includes recipes for "baby" cakes - cakes baked in 6" pans which is a boom for small families.
Ann Bryn writes in a pleasant , friendly style - the cakes all include a paragraph or two about the history and origin. She's from Tennessee so the many of the recipes have a Southern slant.
I very much recommend this for anyone who finds themselves having to supply cakes for potlucks or large family gatherings. It's also a very fun cookbook to just read!
A seasoned baker will most likely pooh-pooh the recipes but anyone pressed for time or a bit uncertain on baking skills will find it most useful. The "showstoppers" are especially enticing - they looks as good as anything I've seen on The Great British Baking Show but won't take hours and hours and hours of effort. She also includes recipes for "baby" cakes - cakes baked in 6" pans which is a boom for small families.
Ann Bryn writes in a pleasant , friendly style - the cakes all include a paragraph or two about the history and origin. She's from Tennessee so the many of the recipes have a Southern slant.
I very much recommend this for anyone who finds themselves having to supply cakes for potlucks or large family gatherings. It's also a very fun cookbook to just read!
October 28, 2021
I received a free copy from Clarkson Potter in exchange for a free and unbiased review. I really liked the setup of this book starting with the table of contents and all the snapshots of the different cakes, cupcakes, etc. Bryn did an excellent job with her introduction on why a cake mix, supplies, utensils needed and decorating cakes. I was impressed with her reasoning on using cake mixes and suggestions about what types of mixes, puddings and how to decorate to make your cake look like it came from a bakery. Bryn included gluten free and vegan recipes along with her other recipes. Not only did her recipes include tiered cakes, but bundts, loaf, cupcakes and spring form cakes which gives readers choices on the different types of cakes to make. Some of the recipes that she updated and added new to this book are: Coffee Cake Muffin, Microwave Mug Sprinkle Cake, Ice Cream Sprinkle Chocolate Cookies, A basic vanilla and chocolate cake and much more. You need to pick up this wonderful cookbook and start baking up some unbelievable cakes.
September 23, 2021
If Cake Mix Doctor is the basic course, this is the master class! There's useful basic information here about flavorings, supplies, and techniques, but the real fun is in all of the creative variations. There are slab cakes, petit fours, baby cakes, vegan cakes, biscotti, etc. The possibilities seem endless and each as delicious as the last!
Each recipe does have a small featured picture at the beginning of the book, but while most cakes have bigger pictures with the recipe, not all do and I wish they did. I appreciated the cook's notes accompanying most of the recipes--they had helpful suggestions for substitutions and variations.
I'm looking forward to trying so many of these recipes and feel like I picked up some good foundational skills while flipping though the pages and dreaming.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Each recipe does have a small featured picture at the beginning of the book, but while most cakes have bigger pictures with the recipe, not all do and I wish they did. I appreciated the cook's notes accompanying most of the recipes--they had helpful suggestions for substitutions and variations.
I'm looking forward to trying so many of these recipes and feel like I picked up some good foundational skills while flipping though the pages and dreaming.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
October 14, 2021
Do you bake or know someone for whom cake making is a passion? If so, be sure to put this title on your or their holiday gift list. I think that it will be adored by those who enter its pages. To begin, readers will salivate as they look at the photos. Next, find recipes for Mint Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cake; Chocolate Pistachio Ice Cream Cake; Hummingbird Cake with Roasted Bananas and many, many more-175 in all.
Readers and bakers who have seen books by Ms. Byrn know that she does not think that “cake mix” is a dirty term. I found that to be quite refreshing. I also note that, before getting to the recipes, much information is shared. As an added bonus, the recipes are easy to follow.
I highly recommend this compendium. Bakers, set your oven timers!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Readers and bakers who have seen books by Ms. Byrn know that she does not think that “cake mix” is a dirty term. I found that to be quite refreshing. I also note that, before getting to the recipes, much information is shared. As an added bonus, the recipes are easy to follow.
I highly recommend this compendium. Bakers, set your oven timers!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2021
Oh my. I had no idea! The creativity and knowledge that goes into creating these cakes of beauty! I will say, my hands down favorite feature is the collection of thumbnail photos of every single recipe presented. It truly is possible to create these little slices of heaven right out of a box. Knowing I will not need to spend all day working on a recipe has me more inspired to try a few new things. I enjoyed the time of imagining and taste testing in my mind. Highly recommended for bakers of all levels who find themselves a little short on time but still desirous of deliciousness. I received a complimentary advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.
February 5, 2022
I was super-stoked to have this Wish granted!! I am a long-time fan of this author and have (and still use), all of her previous cookbooks. Her Almond Cream Cheese Poundcake from her first cake-mix book is still a family favorite today! That one is also a repeat in this book, but there a lot of newbies also, along with a lot of great new ideas. But enough about previous entries. This was a much-welcomed addition of the Cake-Mix Doctor series and I just bought the paperback to add to my collection. If already a fan, you will find many new favorites along with bars, cookies and even cheesecake! The Chocolate Olive Oil Cake with Chocolate Ganache is to DIE for!! I look forward to trying many more and can HIGHLY recommend this book and author!!
Many thanks to #NetGalley, Ann Byrn and
Many thanks to #NetGalley, Ann Byrn and
July 17, 2023
“A New Take on Cake” was done by the Cake Doctor, who uses cake mix to make the recipes of cakes found in this book. If you are looking for a bake from scratch, this book is not for you. All the recipes have pictures. However, if you are looking for cake recipes that are delicious and can get done a little faster than bake from scratch recipes then go ahead. I do like to bake from scratch mostly, so all my cookbooks move from that point, however, I do have one book that is for doctored recipes from cake boxes and this book would make a nice second. The only negative observation is that the book has an old-school vibe, I don’t know ho to understand it but it does, but I can ignore that since I do love that all the recipes have a picture.
October 7, 2021
A New Take on Cake by Anne Byrn is just what I need! Whether it be for pandemic baking, holiday celebrating or yummy gift giving, this book has it. The author has given us an updated version of The Cake Mix Doctor book and provides the reader with a wide variety of simple and fun recipes for sheet cakes, cupcakes, bundt cakes, layer cakes, etc. You will find some healthier alternatives to traditional recipes, as well as vegan and gluten free options. I look forward to baking the recipes I've bookmarked!
Thank you to NetGalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press and the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press and the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2021
This is a new cookbook from The Cake Mix Doctor, and it is just as wonderful. If you can't find something in this book then you don't like sweets. This book includes cakes-pound, bundt and stack, cupcakes, muffins and cookies. And they all start with a cake mix!. Some people think that it is cheating to use a cake mix but nothing could be further from the truth. Cake mixes make a great foundation and they are really pretty good these days. It's the stuff you add to the mix that makes the cakes stupendous! Whether you are making a cake or some other treat for a special occasion or for a regular Monday night supper this book should be your go to book.
October 21, 2021
I loved this cookbook!! Cake made with store bought batter! Want to spiff up some Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker cake mix. Look no further!
What did I like? Who wouldn’t love this. I love this idea. Shorten recipes to cake mix plus certain items. Great pictures! I bookmarked so many recipes! Pineapple cake! Cake pops! Delicious white cake! So many options!!
Would I recommend or buy? Skip measuring flour and just add what’s needed to make a great cake! I love the idea! Shortcuts with a twist! I’d love a copy and recommend to cake lovers! Five stars for such a great book!
I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left a review!
What did I like? Who wouldn’t love this. I love this idea. Shorten recipes to cake mix plus certain items. Great pictures! I bookmarked so many recipes! Pineapple cake! Cake pops! Delicious white cake! So many options!!
Would I recommend or buy? Skip measuring flour and just add what’s needed to make a great cake! I love the idea! Shortcuts with a twist! I’d love a copy and recommend to cake lovers! Five stars for such a great book!
I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left a review!
October 25, 2021
Wonderful cookbook no matter your level of baking confidence. I’ve been baking since I was very young and I still learned so much from this book. (Like how to get serious sprinkles on the sides of a confetti cake)
I love that she starts the recipes with a cake mix. Sometimes I want to make my kids a cake but I don’t want to break out my scale and all that a from scratch cake can take. The author shows you how to make a boxed cake taste like it’s from the bakery.
The recipes are easy to follow with easy to get ingredients. Also there’s pictures with every recipe (some are in the front). Lots of recipes (including vegan and gluten-free) and tons of tips.
I love that she starts the recipes with a cake mix. Sometimes I want to make my kids a cake but I don’t want to break out my scale and all that a from scratch cake can take. The author shows you how to make a boxed cake taste like it’s from the bakery.
The recipes are easy to follow with easy to get ingredients. Also there’s pictures with every recipe (some are in the front). Lots of recipes (including vegan and gluten-free) and tons of tips.
November 5, 2021
I loved this book and the pictures are great! This book made baking with a mix so easy to use; it really is a cookbook and not a book to just add this to change the mix.
It is easy to read and easy to use. I passed to my niece who's a trained chef and she was so excited to use that she put it to use right away. She also felt that it was a great book for new bakers to learn from and that the cake came out moist and very tasty.
This is definitely the type of cookbook that I would give as a gift to someone just learning how to bake and those who have baked for a while and want to try something new.
It is easy to read and easy to use. I passed to my niece who's a trained chef and she was so excited to use that she put it to use right away. She also felt that it was a great book for new bakers to learn from and that the cake came out moist and very tasty.
This is definitely the type of cookbook that I would give as a gift to someone just learning how to bake and those who have baked for a while and want to try something new.
December 22, 2021
#ANewTakeonCake #NetGalley
I really enjoyed the design of this book that made it easy to follow with photos to strive for and tips and tricks that have helped me as I focus more on cakes and learning to decorate. Cakes are not generally my preference (neither to eat nor to bake) so I decided to jump down the rabbit hole and learn. I tend to cut recipes to the smallest portion as I test out recipes. It's still a difficult concept for me to hold on to - using premade cake mixes - since I'm stubborn and want to perfect the 'from scratch' but it's so much easier and less stressful. The Strawberry Tres Leches cake...blissful sigh...
I really enjoyed the design of this book that made it easy to follow with photos to strive for and tips and tricks that have helped me as I focus more on cakes and learning to decorate. Cakes are not generally my preference (neither to eat nor to bake) so I decided to jump down the rabbit hole and learn. I tend to cut recipes to the smallest portion as I test out recipes. It's still a difficult concept for me to hold on to - using premade cake mixes - since I'm stubborn and want to perfect the 'from scratch' but it's so much easier and less stressful. The Strawberry Tres Leches cake...blissful sigh...
November 16, 2021
Who knew from a box cake mix....
A few tweaks, add in some simple ingredients you have on hand and presto. Magic! A beautiful, attainable cake you can make from a box cake mix. I can truly appreciate that one's starting point is a box cake mix (who doesn't have one on hand?) and you can easily achieve a whole fancy cake. From bundt cakes, to baby baked Alaskas, there was a cake you could happily make. I also liked that there were vegan and gluten free options and more importantly, cakes for smaller households. Just a lovely book on cake. From a cake mix.
Recommend.
A few tweaks, add in some simple ingredients you have on hand and presto. Magic! A beautiful, attainable cake you can make from a box cake mix. I can truly appreciate that one's starting point is a box cake mix (who doesn't have one on hand?) and you can easily achieve a whole fancy cake. From bundt cakes, to baby baked Alaskas, there was a cake you could happily make. I also liked that there were vegan and gluten free options and more importantly, cakes for smaller households. Just a lovely book on cake. From a cake mix.
Recommend.
December 8, 2021
Delicious recipes that enhance a basic cake mix and really elevate it to the next level. There are some really impressive recipes and flavours in this book and it's fast going to become a favourite. From a Hummingbird cake, Snickerdoodle cake to a Chocolate Triple-Berry Cake, some vegan or gluten free options, baby cakes, bundts, loafs and pound cakes and even a wedding cake. There's a recipe for everyone and for every occasion in this creative and inspiring cookbook. I've already got the next years family birthday cakes picked out and can't wait to get baking!
December 30, 2021
I am a huge fan of the author and litterally have all of her books. But this book is really spectacular. The photos and recipes go above and beyond my expectations. I am blown away!!!
I would litterally consider this is a must have book for any cake lovers out there. Trust me shortcuts can be just as spectacular if not more so then any full blown recipe, Trust me these are so far changed you would never recognize the original bake mix selected.
Buy this it's totally worth it!!!
I would litterally consider this is a must have book for any cake lovers out there. Trust me shortcuts can be just as spectacular if not more so then any full blown recipe, Trust me these are so far changed you would never recognize the original bake mix selected.
Buy this it's totally worth it!!!
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