Handfuls of Sunshine by Tilly Pamment

A totally gorgeous cookbook from cover to glorious cover. This is a book dedicated to “the little luxuries that make life all the sweeter.”

Tilly Pamment is the author behind previously released The Plain Cake Appreciation Society, and has once again produced a mouth-watering selection of perfect, bite-sized, irresistible recipes in Handfuls of Sunshine. With beautiful photography and tantalising chapter headings like: Homemade Sunbeams; Rose Petals, Custard & Pastry-flecked Dreams; Baby Cakes & Buttery Bliss; and Pantry Keepers & Postable Love, there’s a temptation to try everything.

Pamment says that food is the language she is most fluent in and a primary means of communication. It seems that a little mess and imperfection are just fine, too, because what matters is the love that goes into making each mouthful of “generosity and joy.”

The author encourages bakers to share the spoils from these pages, whether it’s with neighbours or friends, and she’s an advocate of wrapping with care and sending to loved ones far away. I know I’d certainly love to receive a package with Matcha, Rose & Strawberry Cookies, or Double Chocolate & Ginger Biscotti.

Among the selection, two of my favourites are Sticky Prune, Pear & Ginger Cakes with Ginger Caramel and Apricot & Sultana Hot Cross Buns—perfect for any time of the year. Pamment says, “life is complicated enough already, baking doesn’t have to be,” and I think that’s a great philosophy to have in the kitchen. A fantastic five-star review.

Reviewer: Carole Brungar

Murdoch Books