I have mentioned before that I have tried to curtail my cook book purchasing this year but Christmas always presents the perfect opportunity to spoil yourself, or someone else, with a new cookbook.  I love sitting down on a quiet afternoon ear-marking recipes to try out in the coming year and as I have said before I definitely favour the books of food writers more so than Michelin starred chefs – give me anything from Nigel Slater, Tamasin Day Lewis or Nigella and I will be most happy.  It seems that 2013 had been a really great year for Irish cookbooks and just as I think I have my wishlist under control another one appears to tempt me and there are now more Irish books on my list than ever – Apron Strings from Nessa Robins, Homecooked by Donal Skehan, Dream Deli by Lily Higgins and Food from an Irish Garden by Fiona Dillon.  I think they will fit right in with my current collection.

One new Irish cookbook that I do own is Like Mam Used To Bake by Rosanne Hewitt-Cromwell, whose blog by the same name gives a great indication of what to expect – lots of tasty gorgeous desserts and bakes, all simply explained and with no wild or hard-to-get ingredients.  Rosanne very kindly sent me a copy of this book but I also bought one for my step-daughter who is delightedly enjoying much success with the recipes!  If you are already familiar with Rosanne’s blog then you will know what she has a great way with words – her recipes are often introduced with a little story from her childhood or family that will either bring a tear or a smile, and sometimes both, to the reader.  If you are looking for perfect fuss-free desserts or treats for the festive season then you can’t go wrong with this book, Christmas has a special chapter all to itself!  And Rosanne’s Rafaello Macarons will make the perfect little gifts for loved ones – they are absolutely gorgeous and definitely featuring in my Christmas.

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and here’s hoping for many more Irish cookbooks in 2014.