Chocolate for Beginners

“I like to think of Kate Shaffer as Dr. Chocolate since she is able to troubleshoot any chocolate problem you could possibly encounter. In Chocolate for Beginners, she offers up an enticing collection of chocolate treats–from truffles to toffee, cakes to candy, pies to tarts. This is a book you’ll want to keep in the kitchen to refer to, and cook from, over and over again.”–Kathy Gunst, Resident Chef for NPR’s Here and Now and author of Rage Baking–The Transformative Power of Flour, Fury and Women’s Voices.“Kate navigates the complexities of chocolate through a simplified and accessible lens that instantly inspires you to throw on an apron and dive into handcrafting your own confections. The guidance offered by this book of techniques and recipes illuminates an enjoyable and educational approach that is digestible to everyone. It provides a type of knowledge exchange that deeply aligns with our core values.”–Arnaud Monmarche, CEO BtoB, República del Cacao“Kate Shaffer is a thoughtful chef and skilled writer. In Chocolate for Beginners she combines those strengths to guide readers joyfully through the process of making professional quality chocolate confections at home. From home cook to professional chef, this book is for anyone who wants to better understand and appreciate chocolate in its many forms.”–Dinah Grossman, Chef and Owner of Spinning J Bakery & Soda Fountain

Kate Shaffer is an award-winning author and the owner of Black Dinah Chocolatiers, an artisanal chocolate confectionery that utilizes sustainably produced, direct-trade chocolates, and locally sourced fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers.