Rolling Scones Cookbook: Beautiful Photos, Familiar Recipes, Surprising Breads

 

I love a good scone. So when I spotted Rolling Scones, my mind immediately filled with images of flaky, buttery batches baking in my future. I was genuinely excited.

That excitement faded a little once I opened the book. The title is delightfully misleading. Yes, there are scone recipes, but only a handful. The rest of the pages are packed with muffins, breads, cookies, cakes, pastries, pies, tarts, and galettes. My own blog probably has more (and, if I’m being honest, more interesting and varied) scone recipes than this collection offers. That’s less a complaint and more an observation.What surprised me in the best way was the bread section. Those recipes look genuinely intriguing, and they’re the ones I’ll be baking first. The muffins, cookies, and cakes, by contrast, felt familiar, cleverly renamed (sometimes a bit too cutesy for my taste, which started to wear on me), but essentially versions of things I’ve made before under different titles.The photography, though? Outstanding. Nearly every recipe gets a beautiful photo, which makes flipping through the pages a pleasure.If your cookbook shelf isn’t already overflowing, this could be a solid addition. You’ll find a wide mix of approachable recipes that rely on everyday ingredients you probably already have or can easily grab at the grocery store. The instructions are clear, concise, and easy to follow.It’s not a bad book. I just expected more scones and a bit less of everything else. Still, those breads have my attention.

 3 ½ stars

 You can order a copy here.

 Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Farmhouse Christmas: A Pretty Book That Left Me Wanting More

 

I have been waiting for Farmhouse Christmas: Recipes and Crafts for a Cozy Homemade Holiday by Melissa Bahen for months, so when it finally arrived, I as genuinely excited to see it. Christmas cookbooks are one of my weaknesses, and a book promising both recipes and crafts sounded right up my alley...And then I opened it.

Farmhouse Christmas is certainly a beautiful book. It is festive from endpaper to endpaper, filled with the cozy, homespun aesthetic you would expect from its title. The photography is lovely, and there are plenty of recipes that made me want to head straight into the kitchen. But I have to admit that the book wasn’t quite what I was expecting, and that left me a little disappointed. 

 The publisher describes the book as containing more than 70 recipes along with 12 holiday crafts and gifts, and that balance is important to know going in. I had expected something closer to an equal partnership between recipes and crafts. Instead, this is overwhelmingly a cookbook, with the crafts functioning more as a small bonus. If you’re picking this up primarily for Christmas crafting and decorating inspiration, you may find yourself wishing there were considerably more of it.

 My other disappointment was the crafts themselves. I didn’t find much that felt particularly fresh or inventive. There are some perfectly pleasant ideas here, but after looking at Christmas crafts for as many years as I have, I was hoping for a few of those Why didn't I think of that? moments. I never quite got them. Fortunately, the recipes go a long way toward redeeming that part of the book. 

 There are recipes here to take you from breakfast through dinner, cocktail hour and dessert, and the photographs make everything look especially inviting. Some of the recipes are familiar territory, but I was pleasantly surprised by how many were new to me. And considering how many cookbooks I review and how many recipes I encounter, coming across something I haven’t seen before is no small accomplishment. Kudos for that. 

 Best of all, most of the recipes look wonderfully approachable. You don’t need to be an accomplished cook to tackle them, which makes this a particularly accessible holiday cookbook.

 Several recipes have already made their way onto my must-try list. I’m especially intrigued by the Chewy Chocolate Meringues, Sugared Gingerbread Muffins, and Kale Salad with Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette. Yes, I have apparently reached the stage of life where I voluntarily put kale on my Christmas menu. Stranger things have happened.

The section devoted to appetizers and party food for New Year’s Eve is another highlight for me. I like being able to open a cookbook to a particular holiday and find a collection of recipes that works for that occasion rather than having to hunt through the entire book. The Baked Cheese and Sweet Onion Dip and Cranberry Salsa with Cream Cheese are both calling my name.

I’ve also recently become a convert to sun-dried tomatoes, so the Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Spread caught my attention. And then there’s the Spanish Meatballs with Tomato Sauce. I thought I had encountered pretty much every meatball variation known to mankind, but this one was new to me, and I’m eager to give it a try.

 And the drinks! 

The Caramel Apple Cider sounds like exactly what I want on a cold winter afternoon. I can already see myself making a batch, and perhaps adding a shot of applejack to my glass. For medicinal purposes, naturally.

So, where does that leave me?

I like Farmhouse Christmas. I just don’t love it as much as I expected to.

Perhaps that is partly because I had built the book up in my mind during those months of waiting. I was expecting a generous dose of Christmas crafting, along with recipes, decorating ideas and the sort of fresh inspiration that makes you want to drag out the glue gun and immediately start making something. Instead, I found a very pretty, very approachable holiday cookbook with a small collection of crafts tucked inside.

There is another consideration for longtime followers of Melissa Bahen, who is the creator of the Lulu the Baker website. Many of the recipes and projects in Farmhouse Christmas have appeared on her website, so readers already familiar with her work may find less that feels entirely new.  That doesn’t make this a bad book. It simply makes it a different book from the one I thought I was getting.

 If you’re looking for an attractive, approachable Christmas cookbook filled with festive recipes, Farmhouse Christmas has plenty to offer. If you’re buying it primarily because you’re hoping for a craft-filled Christmas extravaganza, I’d temper those expectations. For me, it’s a good book that I expected to be a great one. And perhaps that’s the most disappointing part of all.

My Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5 stars) 

 Those interested can order a copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

 

Fresh Ideas for Pasta Lovers: A Review of Donna Kelly’s New Cookbook

 

If your family is anything like mine, pasta is one of those dependable ingredients that’s always waiting patiently in the pantry for inspiration to strike. It’s affordable, versatile, comforting, and just about everyone loves it. So when I came across 101 Things to Do With Pasta by Donna Kelly, I was curious to see whether it could offer something beyond the usual spaghetti-and-meatballs routine.

 I’m happy to say it does.

  Part of the popular 101 Cookbooks series, this compact little volume packs an impressive variety of recipes into its 128 pages. While it may be small enough to tuck into a tote bag or kitchen drawer, it's filled with practical ideas that make weeknight dinner -- and even breakfasts and lunches -- a little more exciting.

The recipes are organized into easy-to-browse chapters including "Brunching and Lunching," "Sassy Salads," "Weeknight Pastabilities," "Company's Coming," "Veggie Delights," "Baked Pasta Dishes, and "Around the World. Whether you're craving a quick one-pan meal or something hearty enough for company, there's likely something here to tempt you.Among the recipes that caught my eye were Spinach Artichoke Orzo, Confetti Pasta Salad, Creamy Shrimp Tagliatelle, Creamy Mushroom Pasta Rags, and Orzo Jambalaya. The “Around the World” section was an especially fun addition, featuring dishes such as Turkish Pasta, Jewish Noodle Kugel, and Singapore Spicy Tofu Noodles that add a welcome international twist. One thing I appreciated is Kelly’s practical introduction. Rather than spending pages discussing cookware or complicated techniques, she focuses on helpful tips like understanding pasta sizes and the differences between cooking pasta for hot dishes versus cold salads. It’s the kind of information beginning cooks will actually use.

  The recipes themselves are straightforward and concise. Most fit comfortably on a single page, ingredient list included, making them easy to follow without endless page-turning. Many rely on pantry staples and supermarket ingredients, and there are even gluten-free and vegan-friendly options sprinkled throughout the book.

 That said, seasoned cooks may notice a bit of repetition. Several recipes share similar methods or ingredients, and some categories overlap. There is also a noticeable reliance on convenience products—particularly jarred Alfredo sauce and cream cheese—in some of the weeknight recipes. If you prefer making everything completely from scratch, you may find yourself adapting a few dishes.

 Another drawback is the lack of photographs. As someone who truly enjoys cookbooks filled with beautiful food photography, I did miss having pictures to inspire me. There’s also no index, so locating recipes by ingredient requires browsing the table of contents rather than flipping to an alphabetical listing. Still, those are relatively minor complaints considering the cookbook’s purpose. This isn’t intended to be a coffee-table cookbook; it’s designed to be practical, approachable, and affordable.

 In fact, I think 101 Things to Do With Pasta would make a wonderful gift. Its compact size makes it perfect for slipping into a stocking at Christmas, adding to a pasta-themed gift basket with imported pasta and homemade sauce, tucking into a care package for a college student, or pairing with a bottle of olive oil for a thoughtful hostess gift. 

If you’ve ever stood in front of your pantry wondering, “What else can I make with this box of pasta?” Donna Kelly has plenty of delicious answers.

 Scheduled for release on July 14^th, you can order a copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

My Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars) 

Why Cake Picnic Is the Most Joyful Cookbook You'll Read This Year

 

I just finished paging through Cake Picnic by Elisa Sunga, and honestly, I'm kind of obsessed. The photography is absolutely stunning—those San Francisco backdrops make every single cake look like a work of art, colorful, mouthwatering, and perfectly styled. But what really hooked me is the whole concept of a cake picnic: everyone brings a cake to share, slices get passed around, and suddenly baking becomes this joyful, communal thing instead of a solo kitchen project. The first photo of all those cakes gathered together at the original event? Magic! What stays with me most is how this cookbook is really an invitation to connection. The detailed guide to planning your own cake picnic—location ideas, weather tips, setup suggestions—turns something as simple as sharing dessert into a real event worth looking forward to. In a world that can feel busy and disconnected, Cake Picnic reminds us that gathering friends around sweetness doesn't need to be complicated. It's playful, welcoming, and genuinely heartwarming. I can't wait to host my first one—and I'm already plotting which cake to bring. 

The recipes themselves are wonderfully approachable. There are 50 of them, organized into fun themes like harvest cakes, chocolate-only sections, poolside treats, camping vibes, and more. You get everything from sheet cakes and loaves to domes and trifles, with flavors that feel fresh and creative rather than the same old standbys. I love that the instructions read clearly even for someone who's not super confident in the kitchen, and there's a whole helpful front section on pantry staples, favorite tools, basic techniques, decorating tips, and storage advice. Some ingredients might be a little harder to track down depending on where you live, but nothing feels overly fussy or intimidating.

You can get your copy here.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

101 Things to Do With Pork by Eliza Cross, Reviewed

 

101 Things to Do With Pork by Eliza Cross is a petite, spiral-bound cookbook that delivers exactly what its title promises: 101 recipes showcasing the versatility of pork in all its forms: ham, bacon, pork chops, sausage, roast, tenderloin, belly, pulled pork, bratwurst, chorizo, kielbasa, Canadian bacon, spare ribs, and baby back ribs. Published in a concealed spiral-bound flexi paperback, this 5½” x 7½” book is designed for practicality, lying flat on the counter for easy reference while cooking. Its compact size makes it a charming candidate for a stocking stuffer, hostess gift, or part of a pork-themed gift basket, perhaps paired with bacon, sausage, or pork rinds, wrapped in netting with a festive bow.The recipes span a wide range of dishes, including breakfasts (like Pork Lover’s Breakfast Skillet), appetizers, sandwiches (such as Toasty Ham and Havarti Sandwiches — I tried this one, and it was very good), soups (High on the Hog Jambalaya), sides (such as Pork Fried Rice) and main courses (Divine Bacon Pork Chops and Perfect Pulled Pork). The variety ensures there’s something for every meal, from family-friendly dinners to quick snacks, all crafted to be economical and approachable for home cooks. The recipes are straightforward, making them accessible for beginners, though some may feel dated, with a few harking back to 1970s culinary trends.

 However, the book has its limitations. The absence of photos, a hallmark of the "101 Things" series, leaves cooks guessing about the final presentation, which may frustrate visual learners. Additionally, while the collection is convenient, many recipes feel familiar and can likely be found online with a quick search, reducing the book’s novelty. For pork enthusiasts or those seeking a tidy compilation, the book’s convenience and cute design are appealing, but it may not break new ground for seasoned cooks expecting innovative ideas.     Overall, 101 Things to Do With Pork is a practical, space-saving addition to a cookbook collection, ideal for gifting or casual home cooking. It earns a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars for its utility and charm, but don’t expect revolutionary recipes.You can get a copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Gibbs Smith in exchange for my honest review.

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts, Volume 2, Reviewed

 

If you're a fan of no-bake desserts that blend nostalgia with modern flair, The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts, released TODAY, is a must-have addition to your cookbook collection. From the iconic New York bakery that started as a humble West Village shop and grew into a global sensation with over 40 locations, Volume 2 brings 100 delightful recipes straight to your kitchen—no oven required. Authored by Magnolia Bakery’s Chief Baking Officer, Bobbie Lloyd, this stunning collection celebrates the simplicity and deliciousness of icebox desserts, which set to perfection in the refrigerator.

 Every recipe is paired with a vibrant, mouthwatering photo that practically begs you to start prepping. The range of treats is impressive: classic banana pudding, icebox cakes, pies, cheesecakes, and inventive new sweets like Cold Brew Chocolate Chip Cheesecake and Pumpkin Spice Pudding with Cookie Butter Swirl. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re craving the comforting layers of a Classic Icebox Cake—reminiscent of childhood with chocolate wafers and sweetened whipped cream—or the refreshing twist of Peach Crisp No Bake Bars. 

 The recipes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned bakers, with clear instructions and helpful tips on kitchen staples and techniques. While most desserts are entirely no-bake, a few include light baking for crusts or cookies, making it versatile yet approachable. Standouts like the Triple Chocolate Pudding Pie and Strawberry Shortcake Bars promise to satisfy any sweet tooth, while the Cannoli Icebox Bars offer a creative spin on a beloved classic. There is even an entire chapter on variations on their iconic banana pudding. If this chapter doesn’t make you swoon, nothing will.

This isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a visual and culinary experience. 

One of the most beautiful cookbooks I’ve encountered in years, it’s brimming with nostalgic charm and irresistible flavors. I’m already planning to spend my summer working through all 100 recipes, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Clear out some fridge space, turn off the oven, and dive into this delightful world of icebox sweets—you won’t be disappointed.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

The Christmas Baking Cookbook, Reviewed

 

I don’t recall ever having to mop up drool before, but I certainly did while reading this amazing new book, The Christmas Baking Cookbook: ‘Tis the Season for 100+ Festive Treats from Cider Mill Press. It is absolutely GORGEOUS!

 

Some years I can be a bit of a Scrooge, but paging through this book makes that an impossibility. All I want to do is go into the kitchen and bake; there are 40 recipes for cookies alone! Often times baking books will just regurgitate recipes from the past that, while we all enjoy, we don’t need to see again. That is not the case in this book. I don’t think I have ever seen such a varied assortment of recipes, 90% of them new to me, 100% I want to get into the kitchen and bake.

  

The book is divided into six sections as follows:

Cookies
Cakes
Bread and Breakfast Treats
Pastries
Pies and Tarts
Custards and Other Decadent Confections 

Each section features a wide variety of offerings, one more mouthwatering than the other. There is a corresponding photo for nearly every recipe, and directions that are clear and concise.At the back of the book, there is a comprehensive conversion chart, as well as an index, something I used to expect in every cookbook, but that are, sadly, beginning to disappear. This index is well put together, and at least in my case, will be well used.

 

For the holiday season coming up, this could be your baking Bible. I can’t wait to dig in and get started. This would make a wonderful gift or hostess gift. You can buy a copy here.

Disclaimer: I received a complementary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.