Few things are more likely to strike fear in the heart of most cooks, than the words, ‘I’ve invited a vegan to dinner.’

And equally from the other side, there is nothing worse than being invited to dinner as a vegan, and watching everyone tuck into delicious food whilst pretending to be excited by a fruit salad.

Of course these are extreme examples, and all hosts would wish to be more adventurous in the kitchen, but where to start?

Fortunately, Danielle Maupertuis has the answer, for puddings at least, with her latest recipe book. ‘Vegans deserve better than a Fruit Salad.’

Maupertuis is an award-winning Belgian pastry chef who writes as though she was a talented friend, standing behind you in your own kitchen. The recipes are written in an easily understood fashion, offering advice as and when you need it.

This recipe book is divided into sections, Cheesecakes, Chocolate Desserts. English Classics with a Modern Twist, Tarts Cakes and Gateaux, Mini cakes and Petit Fours, Festive Desserts and finally Basics, which covers Creams, Mousses, Pastries, Sponges, finishing with a section on Ingredients and equipment.

What I particularly liked about this recipe book was that nothing seemed off limits, no rare ingredients, recipes not overly complicated, and yet each one mouth-watering and impresive.

This recipe book, containing over 70 recipes, would make an Ideal Christmas or birthday gift, not just for vegans, but also for cooks like me, who wish to extend their range.

‘Vegans deserve Better than a Fruit Salad,’ by Danielle Maupertuis, £11.99.