There is no denying that most of us adore desserts. They are associated with comfort, special occasions and pleasant memories, softening those hard edges of life and bringing a smile to everyone's face. Baking desserts should be almost as much fun as eating them-after all, what better way to inspire the baker to get back in the kitchen and produce more tantalizing treats than to make it easy and pleasurable? I hope these recipes does just that-encourage all aspiring bakers, as well as you old pros, to roll up your sleeves and weave your magic!

These recipes are from "Wanda's Pie in the Sky: pies, cakes, cookies, squares, and more", by Wanda Beaver, Whitecap Books, 2002, ISBN 1-55285-214-8

For pastry rules and other baking tips, plus lots of wonderful recipes, you can purchase Wanda's cookbook at either of Wanda's Pie in the Sky locations, or from your favourite local bookseller.

Read more about Wanda's cookbook