Sophie's Sweet and Savory Loaves

Book excerpt: Fast evolving into the French Martha Stewart, Sophie Dudemaine is the star of a popular lifestyle show on the French Food Channel. In her first cookbook published in the United States, Sophie shares the original recipes that catapulted her into the limelight: her mouthwatering, sweet and savory cakes and loaves.Sophie's loaves first debuted in her neighborhood French markets, where word quickly spread that these creations were not just wonderful hors d'oeuvres or tea-time treats but perfectly satisfying meals in and of themselves. Her business quickly expanded into nearby bakeries, and she began selling her loaves at Fauchon, the celebrated Paris food emporium.The recipes in this book are organized seasonally, since Sophie stresses the importance of fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of each loaf. Her hearty Mushroom and Gruyere Loaf is perfect for crisp autumn nights, and her bright and tangy Lemon Cake and fresh Tomato-Mozzarella-Basil Loaf are delightful on a warm summer day. Sophie prides herself on the simple preparation required for each one of the cakes; in fact all her ingredients are mixed in one bowl and baked in one pan. Sophie's imaginative cakes are a treat for both family meals and special occasions.-- The ultimate preparation for the savvy chef: everything gets mixed in one bowl and baked in one pan-- Recipes are simple and easy to follow -- great for beginner cooks and children-- Many of the loaves can be prepared from items found in the home refrigerator, and almost all ingredients are readily available in local markets-- Time is a luxury, says Sophie; all of these loaves are quick to prepare and many can be prepared ahead of time and storedfor days in the refrigerator