Savour mouth-watering treats, the sea and tranquility, and hop onboard a ferry to a historical sea fortress in the north. Gateaux and the Fortress whisks to daily life and celebrations on an island off the Helsinki coastline. The archipelago ambience of the unique Suomenlinna island beckons to pause and take note of all those beautiful moments that count.

Bake a dreamy gateau or breakfast pancake, spooning on some jam, toasted white chocolate or hazelnut paste. Get creative with the freshest produce in season like rhubarb, blood oranges, strawberries and figs. Most of the recipes in the book are quick and easy to make. Sourdough bread and buns are suitable for beginners and experts alike. Challenges have included for the most passionate home bakers, too, such as the vegan macarons perfected for years.

The breath-taking landscape of Suomenlinna island wraps the book in a meditative, nautical atmosphere. The ensemble is spiced up with short island stories: the author’s personal accounts of living in the lap of the sea and some of her favourite quotes from Tove Jansson’s works.

Enchanted by her home island, Emilia Vartiainen is on a mission to make the world a more delicious and delectable place. Dedicated to breakfasts, her first title Wonderful Morning published in 2020 is an international bestseller.

Alkuteos: Kakkuja ja saaritarinoita : leivontaelämää Suomenlinnassa.