By Gretchen Witt
Rowan Public Library

Fans of the Great British Baking Show will be excited to know that RPL now has the cookbook from the newest season “Kitchen Classics.” Included are recipes from Paul, Prue and the contestants as well as a handy glossary, baking tips and pantry suggestions. Short bios on each contestant will appeal to die-hard fans of the show along with gorgeous photos and clear instructions. While some recipes are complicated, plenty of them are easily managed by the average baker. Blueberry, Pecan and Cinnamon Crumble Traybake, Curry Spiced Tear & Share and Iced Party Rings will interest a wide range of palates. There is even a section on special diet fare — vegan, gluten- and diary-free items that are easily made and look scrumptious. Particularly intriguing is a recipe for “brookies,” a mixture of brownie batter topped with a white chocolate peanut butter mixture baked together like a bar cookie. A savory babka filled with kale, roasted peppers and pesto might tempt as well.

Sarah Kieffer’s “100 Morning Treats,” also a recent addition to RPL, is chock full of sweet and savory items for breakfast or any other time a pick-me-up is needed. Alongside muffins, scones and coffeecakes are Cheesy Croissant Casserole with spinach, gruyere and ham, Southwest Turkey Breakfast Sandwiches and ham & cheese sliders baked inside freshly risen bread. Also included are recipes for specific items to round out your special breakfasts like caramelized onion jam, maple mustard dressing, home-made syrups, smoothies and streusels.

Also found on the new shelves is “Southern Modified” by Chef Jernard Wells and Actress Denise Boutte taking southern favorites and re-imagining them in a healthier but just as flavorful way. Many of the recipes are lower sodium and feature Ms. Boutte’s own “Weeziana Girl All-Purpose Seasoning.” Recipes found in this book include Kale Chips and Chipotle Toasted Okra and other delicious but better for you snacks. Further recipes listed are gumbo, vegetarian sweet potato fajitas and pulled BBQ jackfruit, as well as breadcrumb-free crab cakes and other tastebud treats.

Other library recipe titles not to miss are “Lemongrass & Lime” by Leah Cohen for mastering Southeast Asian cooking at home and “Martha Stewart’s Cupcakes” full of twists on the kid-favorite treat. For mouth-watering meal ideas, explore the shelves at any Rowan Public Library branch, search the online catalog at www.RowanPublicLibrary.org, or call 980-432-8670.