Jackie Valenti

At the age of 43, having been downsized from my sales position after 25 years of working, I had a decision to make. After much debate and serious reflection, I decided to go back to school, culinary school. I trained to become a professional chef and then went on with further schooling to specialize in baking and pastry arts.

I have worked in several 4 and 5 star restaurants and now feel I am ready to share some of my experience and recipes with the world. I know my mother would be proud of me. She passed away 15 years ago and I miss her every day. I do, however, have many of her best recipes among the ones in this book.

When I was a little girl my mother used to let me help her bake. She made simple cakes, pies and cookies, nothing fancy, but we loved them! My favorite was chocolate chip cookies. Oh, the mess I made, and she never once got upset!

I hope you enjoy my recipes and tips for entertaining. I have simplified the steps for even the most inexperienced cook!