Here is a buttery upside-down pear cake that can be made with apples instead of pears in which case you'd have apple pandowdy but I find that pears make the most delectable version. Dark brown sugar creates a vivid glaze, so be sure to use that if you can. SERVES 6 TO...
This is a spicy version, which is interlaced with minced fresh gingerroot. Although it is still delicious served the day after, I prefer to serve it freshly made and still warm from the oven (or at room temperature) because it has a softer texture. If you prefer it...
So many people have their own versions of carrot cake. This is the best I've tasted; it is very moist and has the right touch of spice. SERVES 16 2 cups unbleached white flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups sugar 1Вј cups oil 3...
A moist blueberry-filled cake that has a crisp, flavorful topping. It is delicious plain, but is spectacular when topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream. Although when I cook I usually choose foods that are in season, this blueberry cake can be a welcome reminder...
MAKES: Enough for an 8- to 10-inch tart TIME: 20 minutes, plus time to rest This contains more butter than the preceding piecrust, and an egg makes it extra-rich and perfect for tarts. You might think of this as a large cookie, and, like a cookie, it has many possible...
MAKES: Enough for an 8- to 10-inch single-crust pie TIME: 20 minutes, plus time to rest I've used this recipe and technique for years and always been pleased with the results. The crust is flaky and flavorful, and it holds its own no matter what the filling. This may...
MAKES: About 2 cups TIME: 10 minutes Essentially a streusel, this topping is like a delicate and crumbled nut cookie. It's lovely on any crisp, as well as sprinkled on quick breads, muffins, or tarts and pies before baking. Use the whole wheat flour for a more robust...
MAKES: 2 cups TIME: 10 minutes Also called simple syrup, this is perfect for adding sweetness to something without worrying about the sugar dissolving. It comes in handy when making sorbets, granitas, and iced drinks, including tea, coffee, and cocktails. Make this...
MAKES: About 3 dozen cookies TIME: 40 minutes Another not-too-sweet cookie (perfect for glazing), only this time a hint of saffron gives the cookies a gorgeous gold color, and their cakey texture will remind you of an elegant vanilla wafer. The olive oil is a...
MAKES: About 12 servings TIME: 11/2 hours, plus time to chill If you've never made cheesecake with anything but cream cheese, try this. Ricotta makes a creamy, moist, and light cheesecake that's delicious but is much lower in saturated fat (especially if you use...
