INTRODUCTION Whether right after a meal, while winding down in the evening, or when we gather with friends and loved ones, my family always pours tea--and what is that hot, steaming cup without something sweet to accompany it? This was how I was introduced at an early age to the pleasure of a simple dessert, often cake. Drawn in not so much by the sugar, but by a deep satisfaction that stems from "that ideal match of the right dish and the right moment," as the restaurateur and cookbook author Yotam Ottolenghi said. That idea is what Everyday Cake is all about--cakes in all shapes and forms for every mood and occasion. Maybe a long day at work necessitates a treat, an unexpected guest stops in, or you're looking to celebrate, but without too much fuss. In other words, day-to-day moments that warrant a spark of joy. In these pages, you'll find cakes that are neither overly complicated nor too sweet but are reliably delicious. Some, like the Lemon-Lavender Yogurt Cake (page 143), are a one-bowl magic trick, while others call for layers (never more than two!) and frosting, like the Yellow Birthday Cake with Whipped Malt Chocolate Buttercream (page 91). There are a handful, such as the Salted Butterscotch Fudge Sheet Cake (page 127), that feed a crowd, but many more will be easily tackled by a party of two.

And if your style, like mine, skews classic with a twist, then you'll especially love the Golden-Milk Tres Leches Cake (page 111) and the Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Five-Spice Streusel (page 26). The chapters are organized by the forms the cakes are baked in--Bundt and tube; round; square and rectangular; and loaf pans--because I find each shape carries its own vibe and associations. (A Chocolate Sour Cream Cake on page 145 keeps it casual, while a Sugared Jelly Donut Bundt Cake on page 35 begs to be served at brunch.) My recipes are clear and detailed, meant to empower--not overwhelm--the reader. Throughout the book, tidbits of pastry know-how will address any questions you might have in the process and leave you smarter in the kitchen too. My hope is that whether you're a novice or seasoned baker, or somewhere in between, this cookbook will entice you and bring delight no matter the reason. So next time your day calls for a sweet treat, let Everyday Cake be the answer.