Food Processor

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.

Old-time taste in a hurry. Serve in deep bowls with ice cream or whipping cream.

Rather than frying many batches of small latkes on the stove, you can prepare two large ones that are browned in the oven, then cut into wedges. Offer the Three-Apple Applesauce alongside.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Baked in individual ring molds, these little desserts feature caramelized pears, streusel topping and sweetened cream.

Cooking the curry powder over low heat for a short time eliminates any raw taste and sweetens the spice.

Chef Lionel Lévy uses black olives in this unusual clafoutis but still serves it as a dessert, along with a mâche salad drizzled with lemon-honey vinaigrette. We like that combination in place of an after-dinner cheese course, but we also think it makes an excellent (and surprising) first course.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Salt Cod Fritters)

This dressing can also be used as a refreshing condiment for spicy curries.