Chocolate

Perhaps the year's most popular dessert: the chocolate soufflé cake with a rich molten center. Cinnamon, espresso and vanilla give the cakes a Mexican accent.

Mexican chocolate, usually found in tablet form, contains cinnamon, sugar, and ground almonds — as do these fudgy squares.

Indulge yourself even more by mixing some toasted coconut (the sweetened, shredded kind) and a dash of coconut extract into vanilla ice cream, and scooping it alongside.

Most people think these Sicilian treats are available only in Italian bakeries. But here's delectable-and easy-proof that you can them at home. We've exchanged the usual addition of candied fruit for the more contemporary one of bittersweet chocolate and apricot preserves. Look for the cannoli shells at Italian markets.

Make two trifles to serve 30 guests, or make one and round out the dessert table with fruitcake and goodies from the bakery.

My childhood memories of Christmas revolve around cookies," says Fran Gallagher Ripsom of Sun Valley, Idaho. "My mother started baking as soon as Thanksgiving was over. She prided herself on a beautiful assortment, never less than 12 kinds of cookies. Some became traditions, but she also tried new recipes. I loved the pinwheel cookies. I often bake them at other times of the year, because they are too delicious to enjoy only at Christmas."

Begin preparing this delicious dessert at least one day ahead.

Nougat is an egg white, honey and nut confection traditional in the city of Montélimar, in the Rhône Valley. It is one of the 13 sweets offered to churchgoers on Christmas Eve. Start making this impressive dessert at least one day before you plan to serve it, although it can be prepared up to one week ahead.

Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 3 3/4 hr (includes cooling)

Ruthie, Sara's chocolate-loving daughter, is a great fan of this recipe. Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

Be sure to make this dessert at least one day ahead to allow the flavors to blend.