Pecan

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.

From L'Etoile, Madison, Wisconsin.

Serve over vanilla ice cream and top with whipped cream.

Miso—rather than oil—lends body and flavor to the dressing.

"The recipes here reflect my British roots, but not necessarily my family traditions," writes Mairi Morrison of London, England. "Although my mother is from Scotland and my father is from Northern Ireland, I grew up in Los Angeles, where our weeknight meals were typically American: spaghetti, tacos, and burgers. It wasn't until I moved to Europe that I became really interested in food. Here in London my social life is centered around the table. I really like this dish because it is typically British, and perfect for a rainy winter evening in London." Make these ahead if you like (they will keep for a week in the fridge) or make them on a whim, since the recipe is so easy. Lyle's Golden Syrup is a popular British sweetener with a flavor that's similar to mild honey.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Purchased pound cake is sliced and toasted or grilled, then dressed up with a luscious chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream.

A bourbon-laced cream filling and rich chocolate glaze turn the classic layer cake into something really special.