In the Simple act of baking, pleasure given is pleasure gained.

It is just before 6am on Monday morning as I write this and I am pondering over the cake for this weekend.....weekend has been with no cake made. On purpose of course, as it is my sister inlaws birthday tomorrow and for her present I am giving her a copy of one of the best recipe books I own. She is a very busy lady and does not always have time to cook for themselves, so a recipe book may just sit on her coffee table looking attractive. But, I really do think she will use this one and to get the ball rolling, I am making a cake from the book for her.

Sister in law is very healthy conscience so I am aware of this when choosing what to make. Chocolate cranberry slice......main ingredient is chocolate and condensed milk....mmm no.

Espresso Hazelnut Ripple......main ingredient white and dark chocolate and nuts....mmmm no.

Vanilla Plum Cake.....300grams of Butter...I dont think so!

I think I should possibly make a cake in the book that she probably wouldn't make herself so settled on The Ultimate Chocolate Cake, that way she can share this with everyone at the office and take some home for hubby!

During the week I made the Blueberry Crumble Cake from the same said book, page 272 Annabel Langbein The Free Range Cook (this will be my summer 'bible') and it is very delicious. It would have been even more delicious had I not omitted the 3/4 cup of yoghurt from the mixture! Never mind, it went down a treat with the female guests we had for dinner that night.

So if you are passing Opzeeland transport on Tuesday, wish M a happy birthday and you may be treated to a slice of cake, if your quick.

Next week I will be off shore and away from my Kenwood. I will still be making a cake so watch this space.