I LOVE this cook book. I was looking for a pastry cookbook that would give me thorough instructions but also creative ideas on how to compose desserts. There are great recipes and details on how to make the basics (meringues, buttercreams, custards, etc), but my favorite part is that there are so many suggestions about flavor combinations and how to put together a composed dessert. I have made cookie meringues, buttercream, and 2 tarts from the book, and everything has come out amazing! Now to conquer macarons... So happy with this purchase.

I bake and make chocolates for a living. Giving up a previous career and pursuing my lifelong dream, I knew how to, but want to give it my all, to give what I do the panache my competition doesn't have. I just received this magnificent book today. I have looked through it and read through certain sections where I feel I need some professional advice. Johnny has nailed answers to my questions, and I can not wait to dive in tomorrow. The title captures this book entirely. Sugar Rush indeed!

I'm loving Sugar Rush by Johnny Iuzzini. He does a great job teaching new bakers everything, and his choice methods are also mine. For example, he measures by stirring, then spooning flour (etc) into measuring cups. Way better than the scoop method so popular now. Another great thing is the many photos that show a recipe in its subsequent steps. If you want to learn how to bake, this is a great book. So far I've only read part of it, but the recipes look great, and I love the care and precision in explaining them, so I'm completely happy I bought the book.

Whenever I look for different cookbooks to buy, I look for ones that share techniques and tips along the way. I am someone that is in the culinary that uses different cookbooks to help in my continuing to learn different skills that I can apply into my job. I like this book a lot, and that may be an understatement. I have been looking at this book, page by page, since receiving it and have learned quite a bit. I would recommend this cookbook to anyone, no matter their skill level. You will be able to pick up different skills that you can add to your desserts.

Sugar Rush: Master Tips, Techniques, and Recipes for Sweet Baking This is more than just a cookbook, it truly is an instructional masterpiece. I have purchased other baking cookbooks but have been frustrated with lack of technique explanation, off-the-wall ingredients, confusing instructions. This book is designed to make the reader a successful pastry baker. Highly recommend this!

Not only are there photos for EVERY recipe but there are also photos of the techniques needed to create them. Chef Iuzzini includes what tools you will need, equipment, ingredients, shares tips he has developed through his career, an explanation each different category of desserts, plus each recipe has a personal description from him. There is a great intro by Dorie Greenspan; read it, it is worth the time. It gives you insight to the person Chef Iuzzini is plus she recommends to read the whole book before starting. I did and am glad I did, even though it drove me nuts not to just dive in and start baking.

I am (was) your typical baker. However, last year I decided I wanted to lose weight for for my son's wedding. I removed all sugar from my house. The only time I allowed myself something sweet was when I went out to eat ( I mean, come-on, what's life without some sugary treats!) So I would order an appetizer and dessert. I not only lost the weight, but I grew to really appreciate fine pastry/desserts. Believe me, I am not a dessert snob, I will still grab a Snickers bar if I have a "got to have a chocolate fix now" going on. I just knew I wanted to be able to create those fine desserts for those I care about.

I first saw Chef Iuzzini this past December on The Great Holiday Baking Show; very personable, gave instructions kindly... not ego-oriented. Then I saw a couple live Facebook demonstrations. These were unscripted in his own kitchen. Just like watching a friend or relative; down to earth, easy instructions, shared tips as he went along. He even took time to answer questions from viewers. Hopefully there will be more of these.

One piece of advice, make sure you have plenty of "tasters" lined up. You don't want to be the only one available to "sample the wares" because once you start.. it is very hard to stop... ; )