Instead of the conventional fondant and gum paste, she relies on natural frostings based on chocolate, cream, or butter (which are also easier to work with). What makes these cakes showstoppers is their unexpected flavor combinations. Take for example the Beau Soleil (mascarpone mousse, peaches, praline, and orange-soaked hazelnut cake) or the Marco Polo (tea-infused almond cake, vanilla bean mousse, streusel, and blackberry miroir). These desserts also take full advantage of layering—contrasting textures in each bite. When it comes to decor, Krasne favors vibrant touches like fresh fruit and real flowers, which add flair without being fussy. Each cake is broken down into its component recipes—allowing you to mix and match to create your own masterpieces or to prepare desserts on a smaller scale. Sprinkled throughout the recipes are Krasne's expert tips, gleaned from her twenty-year career as a pastry chef. In the introduction, Krasne covers the essentials of techniques and ingredients. Extraordinary Cakes offers all you need to create amazing cakes that are as satisfying to the eyes as they are to the palate.