Kamran Siddiqi, the talented young blogger behind the Sophisticated Gourmet, delivers simple yet sophisticated recipes in his first book-a collection of more than 75 of his favorite homemade baked sweets. Designed to entice young bakers with his infectious passion for baking (and sugar in all its glorious forms), the pages are filled with classic favorites like Cream Scones and Chocolate Cake, as well as lesser-known indulgences such as Arabian Nights Baklava and Pistachio Polvorones. With his trademark clear-cut instructions and glorious photographs of each and every treat, Hand Made is perfect for aspiring home cooks with an eye for the elevated taste and beauty of all things hand made. Don't let the title fool you, this isn't your grandmother's sentimental collection of old-timey recipes. Authored by Kamran Siddiqi, a 22-year-old full-time student, who explains in the introduction that baking is my peace, gives readers 55 recipes including unique selections such as Nancy Drew Blondies, Guava and Cheese Puffs, and Penn Station Cinnamon-Sugar Pretzels. Traditionalists need not fear: basics include Foolproof Pie Dough and Easy-Peasy Brioche, as well as classic desserts including Flourless Chocolate Cake and Yellow Birthday Cake. First-person experiences in head notes permeate the title with the author's highly likeable and informative voice, and the full-page color photography and contemporary design make it a pleasure to read and spend time with the pages. An unpretentious, cheery collection designed to 'convert fear-filled nonbakers to experts'. - Publishers WeeklyThis sweet debut from Kamran Siddiqi covers everything from morning pastries through after-dinner desserts, rustic, and encompassing the flavors I crave. With beautiful photographs, Kamran has captured the essence of home baking, detailing every luscious, buttery crust and crumb. You'll be tempted to lick each and every page. - David Lebovitz, author of My Paris KitchenThat Kamran Siddiqi is something else! His baked goods are made with love and true dedication. His photographs make me hungry, every time. Reading Hand Made Baking makes me want to move into the kitchen and bake a cake. I have a feeling the same will happen to you. - Shauna Ahern, author of Gluten-Free Girl Every DayKamran has always seemed wise beyond his years to me, from his 'old soul' maturity and charm to his penchant for crafting beautifully sophisticated recipes. I've been waiting for this cookbook for a long time, and it does not disappoint! - Ree Drummond, New York Times bestselling author of The Pioneer Woman Cooks