Snack

This summery trifle is simple to make since it calls for a purchased pound cake. Begin preparing the trifle one day ahead.

With apologies to mom, I've adapted this recipe just slightly.

If you don't have time to make your own hummus, buy some at the market or specialty foods store, and mix in chipotle chilies and cumin to taste.

Biscotti Quadrati al Miele e alle Noci Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 2 hr

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr Savory pastries are a popular element of Turkish cuisine, with a seemingly endless number of shapes and fillings. These little rolls are called sigara böregi, or pastry cigars, because of their shape.

The classic dessert gets a holiday twist with eggnog flavors and an opulent presentation. Begin making this one day before serving.

This recipe is easily doubled if you'd like to make more.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 3/4 hr

Judith W. Harris of San Mateo, California, writes: "I recently made these chocolate almond bars for a tea. They were all consumed with requests for more." Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 2 hr

This recipe is an accompaniment for Meringue-Topped Raspberry and Peach Ice Cream Cake .

My mother learned to cook this bread during the Depression, when nothing was wasted — especially overripe bananas. We clamored for this treat so often that she frequently bought extra bananas and let them get almost black. I've discovered that overripe bananas can be peeled, mashed, and frozen, then defrosted whenever I want to bake up this memory.