Home-baked cakes and cookies are one of life's great treats. Whatever the occasion, be it an afternoon break, a birthday or a special dinner party dessert, you'll find just the recipe to inspire you in this mouth-watering collection. Starting with an overview of basic baking techniques, ingredients and equipment, beginners and more experienced bakers alike will find that it's easy to master the art of baking with this one-stop guide for cake and cookie lovers.

Discover recipes from around the world:Classic sponges as well as iced, fruit or delicately flavoured cakesDecorated cupcakes, muffins or meringuesTortes, cheesecakes and gateaux galoreQuick and easy cookies and biscuits, plus brownies, flapjacks and pastry-based slicesBirthday, wedding and anniversary cakes as well as delightful novelty cakes and cookies for children