Book excerpt: Pies and tarts are the ultimate comfort food. Whether sweet or savoury, elegant or hearty, they are great for relaxed entertaining, family get-togethers and even weekday suppers. In this irresistible book Eric Lanlard, AKA Cake Boy, demonstrates how to make the best pastry and shares his favourite recipes for sweet and savoury tarts and pies. His recipes include classics with a twist plus ideas inspired by his travels, using deliciously imaginative flavour combinations. In the first part of the book, Pastry Basics, Eric shares his professional expertise and provides step-by-step instructions for making every type of pastry - shortcrust (sweet and savoury), puff, almond, chocolate and brioche. There is a wealth of helpful baking hints to ensure a great bake every time.Savoury Tarts & Pies features such classics as a 'Proper' Quiche Lorraine and a Cider and Pork Pie plus attention-grabbing treats including Fig, Lardon and Dolce Latté Tart and Lamb and Moroccan Spice Pie. The chapter ends with a selection of quick bakes using ready-roll pastry (for when time is short) and a delicious collection of accompaniments including salsas, chutneys and vegetable side dishes.Sweet Tarts & Pies will bring some of Eric's trademark glamour to the dessert course - including a Strawberry Tart 'Royal', Exotic Fruit Meringue Crumble Pie and an Apricot, Honey and Pistachio Tart. Sweet pies include an Old-fashioned Apple Pie, Ginger Pear Frangipane Pie and a Classic Blueberry Pie. Once again there is a selection of quick bakes for desserts in a dash and a choice of accompaniments, including flavoured creams, spiced fruits and the perfect Crème Anglais.With foolproof recipes for tarts and pies that look and taste great, this wonderful book is a great way to bring some of Eric's culinary magic into your kitchen every time you bake.