The macaron is a chic and delicious French treat--perfect for so many occasions.

Once you've mastered the basic recipe, you can create almost any color and flavor combination you like. But you don't have to stop there In this adorable book, experienced pastry chef Loretta Liu shows you how to take the macaron one step further. First, achieve a batch of perfect light-as-air macarons as your base and then decorate them to create edible art that will delight and amaze your friends and family. Follow Loretta's expert step-by-step instructions to achieve a wide range of finishes, from simple and sophisticated designs, to intricately piped and applied patterns created in icing and sugarpaste. There are techniques here for both the beginners and the more experienced bakers and sugarcrafters. The abstract patterns, brushwork and gilding in Simple Designs make perfect petit fours when entertaining in style at home; little ones will squeal with delight at the ideas in Playtime (as will the child in all of us )--these include a panda, teddy bear and bunny rabbit. Ideas for Seasonal decoration include Christmas baubles, whilst pretty painted flowers are perfect for Mother's Day. Finally, sumptuous designs for Celebrations include pretty heart-shaped macarons for anniversaries and Valentine's Day.