By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Sugar, spice and a whole lot of heart…that’s the hope of Two Good Co’s ‘Sweet Memories’ cookbook series - which turns creams and crumbles into connection, comfort and community, bringing together childhood favourites, show-stopping treats and the kind of recipes that deliver a very valid excuse to ditch the diet.
A four-part collection with the same ethos as Two Good Co’s existing line-up of beautiful, high-quality food and products, this cookbook series is designed to support, empower and employ women with lived experience of homelessness and domestic violence.
As well as feel good, the series also tastes good - a celebration of nostalgia, comfort, togetherness and life’s big moments. Each book has a theme that taps into the emotional power of desserts.
‘Nostalgia’ revives recipes from our childhood kitchens, the everyday cakes, slices and biscuits that feel like a warm hug. ‘Comfort’ offers pastries, pies and tarts designed to soothe the soul with simple, timeless, satisfying flavours.
‘Togetherness’ focuses on desserts made for sharing, from gooey brownies to patisserie classics, perfect for parties or a lazy afternoon tea, while ‘Celebration’ is the showstopper, packed with flamboyant cakes and festive creations for life’s milestones, the recipes you’ll remember long after the candles are blown out.
However, it isn’t just about indulgence. Behind the sweetness lies Two Good Co’s mission to empower women with lived experience of domestic violence, homelessness and complex trauma.
Every recipe in the series is part of a bigger purpose - 50% of profits from every sale go directly to the organisation’s programs, supporting meaningful employment, donations to shelters and community initiatives for vulnerable women. It’s the kind of baking where giving back tastes just as good as a slice of chocolate cake.
What makes ‘Sweet Memories’ especially sweet is the lineup of contributors. Renowned Chefs and home bakers including Nigella Lawson, Neil Perry, Maggie Beer, Helen Goh, Katherine Sabbath, Julia Busuttil Nishimura, Matt Moran and Kirsten Tibballs have all shared recipes that have personal meaning, from family favourites to creative indulgences.
Jill Dupleix, who wrote the foreword for the ‘Togetherness’ volume, sums it up perfectly: "The real sweetness in these recipes comes from within. They’re about joy and starting your own traditions around the table.”
Whether it’s a gooey chocolate brownie that sparks childhood memories or a show-stopping tart that makes a dinner party unforgettable, ‘Sweet Memories’ reminds us that not all good stories need to be spoken and some of the best celebrations are those served on a plate.
In a time when life can feel rushed and complicated, baking from this series encourages slowing down, gathering loved ones and savouring every bite.
With more than 100 recipes, four beautifully designed volumes and contributions from more than 35 celebrated Chefs, ‘Sweet Memories’ is an invitation to connect, create and, quite simply, enjoy. For anyone who believes in the joy of food, the magic of desserts and the power of shared moments, this is the cookbook that hits all the right notes - with a dollop of heart on top.
‘Sweet Memories’ is available as a box set for $75 via Two Good Co’s website at twogood.com.au and makes a perfect gift for bakers, dessert lovers and anyone who enjoys a sweet moment of joy.
