Cakes--perhaps one of the most special and versatile desserts--are the perfect way to mark an occasion or sweeten an ordinary day. From sheet cakes to tea cakes, mini cakes and "naked" cakes, to cakes with over-the-top decorations for special events, this inspiring and exquisite collection includes cakes for any day of the year. Whether you're looking for a multi-tiered cake to impress a crowd, a simple and fruity cake to serve with tea, or a decorative holiday cake, Favorite Cakes includes all these and more.  Simple, easy-to-follow directions, ideas for customizing, decorating tips and techniques, and common baking mistake solutions will help bakers of every level make the most of this book. Organized by basic recipes, modern, and specialty cakes, and including 40 recipes and full-color photography, there's a cake for every occasion. You'll find essential frostings, meringue, and other cake toppers. Discover reinvented classics, such as Champagne and Raspberry Mini Layer Cake, Rose and Vanilla Bean Mini Tea Cakes, Coconut and Lime Curd Layer Cake, Blood Orange Chiffon Cake, Dulce de Leche Crepe Cake, and Brown Butter and Plum Upside Down Cake. And when it comes to celebrations and parties, this book has you covered with recipes like Vanilla and Berry Ombre Layer Cake, Chocolate, Coconut and Caramel Sheet Cake, and 8-Layer Honey Pistachio Cake. This beautiful and giftable collection of classic and new favorites, developed by the Williams Sonoma Test Kitchen, is fit for occasions year-round.