<blockquote> <p> What better way to welcome friends and family than with a steaming cup of coffee and some delectable cake? </p> </blockquote> <p> In <i>Coffee and Cake</i>, acclaimed cookbook author Rick Rodgers presents dozens of recipe pairings for these classic and inseparable components. Rodgers starts with coffee, teaching the basics, from choosing the perfect beans to brewing a fabulous cup or pot. And he offers a selection of delicious international treats, both hot and iced, that can be whipped up at home?from Spiced Mocha and Thai Iced Coffee to a Coffee Frappe and even an Espresso Martini. </p> <p> Rodgers then provides an array of recipes for delicious cakes designed to be savored with coffee, whether it's for a special after-dinner dessert or a get-together with family, neighbors, or friends. Whip up a simple and rustic treat like Apple-Cranberry Ginger Loaf for a coffee klatsch. Indulge the young and the young at heart with Peanut Butter Cupcakes with Milk Chocolate Ganache. Here, too, are American-style cakes sure to bring back wonderful childhood memories, including Angel Food Cake with Coffee Cream, as well as Chocolate-Strawberry Sachertorte and more elaborate creations worthy of a European cafÉ. </p> <p> So make that next cup special?serve up a wonderful helping from <i>Coffee and Cake</i>. </p>