This irresistible book traces the origins and history of ice cream and ices from their appearance on the dinner tables of aristocratic families in Europe and America in the 1800s, to the emergence of sweet sellers and ice cream parlours in the 20th century. The improvement in ice cream machines and the increasing availability of cheap, basic ingredients meant it was not long before good ice cream could be made at home.

Ice Cream and Iced Desserts shows how easy it is to make your own delicious ice cream, whatever the occasion. The comprehensive introduction explains all you need to know about using equipment, such as ice cream machines, moulds and scoops, as well as covering key ingredients, such as milk, cream, eggs, chocolate and vanilla.

The step-by-step coverage of basic techniques demonstrates clearly how to make, freeze, decorate and serve ice creams and sorbets. Experiment with different flavours, learn to layer and ripple, use moulds of different shapes and sizes, and make your own baskets, cones, biscuits and ice bowls. Create classic sauces and toppings, or learn how to add that final decorative touch. The techniques selection shows you how to make delicious iced lollies, a treat that anyone will find irresistible!

Eleven chapters containing mouthwatering recipes for classic sorbets and granitas, traditional vanilla, chocolate, toffee and coffee ice cream, as well as fruit and nut combinations, reveal just why ice cream is so universally popular. Recipes for moulded ice creams, such as caramel and pecan terrine, and cassata, are also included, showing how easily a basic ice cream can be transformed into a sophisticated dessert.

Ice cream is fairly versatile, and can be used to make hot desserts, to create elegant desserts for special occasions or combined with herbs, spices and flowers for a delicious taste sensation. Iced drinks provide the ideal solution to hot summer afternoons - chose from iced Margaritas, Lemonade on Ice, Tropical Fruit Sodas and Strawberry Daiquiri.

With more than 150 recipes catering for every taste and occasion, combined with beautiful photography, Ice Cream and Iced Desserts cannot fail to impress.