Something Sweet

Bacon is the new cupcake, which is the new moustache, which is the new black. And so it goes. However, the cookie will always be the new cookie, especially where Julia Usher is concerned. The food journalist and pastry chef has a new book -- Ultimate Cookies -- which is chock-full of recipes and concept cookies. Though her creations look less like edible delights and more like sculptural undertakings, her beautiful designs are actually fresh and surprisingly simple to follow. Usher creates elaborate rings, necklaces, and even potted plants (with brownies for the soil) that are edible and delicious to boot. Usher visits local independent bookstore Pudd'nhead Books (8157 Big Bend Boulevard, Webster Groves) to talk about fondant flowers, royal icing lace patterns, and colorful pinwheels at 2 p.m. For more details, call the store at 314-918-1069 or visit www.puddnheadbooks.com.
Sat., Dec. 10, 2011