I have been baking and referring to a couple of recipes by the Dean Brettschneider. So far, the 4 recipes I tried were - 5 Spice Chocolate & Almond Macarons, Farmhouse Carrot Cake with Natural Yoghurt, Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns and this Mango & Macadamia Nut Loaf. The outcome? All turned out well and looked exactly like the pictures in his books! Can you believe it? They tasted awesome too!
The cakes were very moist, nicely densed and flavoured. In all of the above cakes and buns, 5 spice powder and mixed spices, amongst other spices, were required. But I must confess I added half the quantity as suggested. I reckoned the spices would overpower and affect the entire cake experience. Well, I am glad I did but really, if you are one of those who does not mind the aroma of spices or tasting more than a hint of spices in the cakes or buns, then by all means go ahead and follow the amount suggested.
To date, I have only referred to two of his books, The Global Baker and New World Baking. For the clueless ones, Dean has set up his bakery in Singapore under the banner of Bake & Cook. Although he hails from New Zealand, he does come down often to the City and I do hope to meet him one day. He has replied to an email I sent him with regard to his recipe on the 5 Spice Chocolate and Almond Macarons and I am certain he will answer all queries in future.
I have provided the link to his website where you are able to get a few recipes: http://www.nzbaker.co.nz/. Go try them out!
