Book excerpt: Exquisite, Delightful and Effortlessly Charming The European Cake Cookbook takes readers on a delectable journey through Europe—via cake! With Tatyana Nesteruk as your guide, allow your imagination to transport you to a bakery in France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Russia, Great Britain, Norway and anywhere else your taste buds desire. Try new techniques with classic cakes such as the Strawberry Swiss Roll, or explore unique creations based on popular desserts such as the Crème Brûlée Cheesecake. Since European cakes are less sweet than their American counterparts, you can enjoy a slice with your tea or coffee any time of day. And if you’ve never made French or Italian buttercream, you are in for a treat! Tatyana walks you through the steps using simple syrup and whipped eggs for a topping that’s light, creamy, mildly sweet and refreshing. A few of the 65 gorgeous creations inside are Raspberry Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake from Austria; indulgent Amaretto Crème Cake, featuring Italy’s famous almond liqueur; Victorian Sponge Cake, sure to be found on the menu at any British tea house; showstopping Chocolate Kiev Cake, the prized dessert of Ukraine; and many more delights.