The Last Course: A Cookbook

The Last Course: The Desserts of Gramercy Tavern by Claudia Fleming is a landmark pastry cookbook from a James Beard Award–winning chef, capturing the philosophy and precision that defined one of New York’s most celebrated kitchens. Widely regarded as a modern classic, the book reflects Fleming’s shift toward seasonal, ingredient-driven desserts—prioritizing balance, restraint, and pure flavor over excess. Organized by key ingredients rather than traditional categories, it offers iconic recipes alongside a thoughtful framework for how to think about dessert. Elegant, influential, and enduring, this collection remains a foundational text for both professional chefs and serious home bakers.