The contemporary art of baroque cake design, through colour palettes, piping techniques and vintage inspiration

Ornate, expressive and beautiful, vintage cake decorating is the romantic revival sweeping the world of baking.

Fancy Cakes is a sumptuous guide to mastering the art of baroque buttercream. You will learn the piping techniques that transform simple sponges into edible sculptures: delicate swags, rosettes, pearls, and filigreed borders. You’ll also discover curated colour palettes to inspire opulent creations, galleries of design ideas drawn from fashion, art and contemporary culture, and advice on marrying tradition with modern style.
Through 40 designs Roxy and Corinne Mankoo, the acclaimed and innovative cake designers at London’s April’s Baker, lead you through:

• Piping instructions for Lambeth and baroque techniques, broken down into achievable steps
• Recipes for their original sponge creations, including Matcha and Strawberry, Lemon Earl Grey and Rose and Raspberry
• Colour palettes, from pastel romance to jewel-toned opulence
• Beginner to Expert guides that will have you creating showstopping centrepieces

Whether you’re an adventurous home baker or an experienced decorator, Fancy Cakes invites you to explore the dazzling romance and artistry of vintage buttercream – stunning edible works of art and celebration.