Nut

The big, All-American layer cake returns. Think pancakes and syrup, all dressed up. Buttermilk makes the cake moist, and maple-walnut candy provides the crunch.

For a shiny finish, brush the warm tart with melted apricot preserves.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Terrific with a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt.

Every year for nearly twenty years Gourmet's production director baked this cake for our mailroom manager on his birthday. Suffice it to say that this delectable dessert has stood the test of time.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve this slightly warm or at room temperature. Either way, it's fantastic with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 45 min

This dense, moist chocolate cake, made with dried pears, is stunning when decorated with gold leaf. Of course, you can always simply top it with chocolate curls.

"The Garden Restaurant in London's Gatwick Airport Hilton hotel serves a pistachio-crusted pork loin in plum sauce that's just delicious," Pete Koronis of Clayton, Missouri. "I'd really like to try making it."

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.