Apple

Well, almost no bake, because the graham cracker crust you buy for this might need to be prebaked. Here again is a pie the kids can make — and I've gone out of my way to keep it as simple as possible, so they can proceed without Mom or Dad needing to hover too much.

This is a simple, delicious dessert that also makes a warming and special brunch dish or breakfast. Although many baked-apple recipes are on the lean side (my mother always ate them when she was dieting), my version is luxurious yet still homey. I stuff the apples with a mix of brown sugar, dried fruit, and nuts, then bake them in a sauce of apple cider, maple syrup, and plenty of butter, which cooks down to a rich, thick glaze. I like to use Cortlands here because of their good squat shape and their complex fruity flavor, but any firm, tart baking apple will do.

This dish goes well with boiled or roasted small red or Yukon Gold potatoes.

Two shortcuts — prepared chestnuts and a purchased corn bread stuffing base — add to the appeal of this recipe from chef and Aidells Sausage Company founder Bruce Aidells.

Apples sautéed with brown sugar and cinnamon top this almond-flavored cheesecake. Bake it at least one day in advance. For best results, use Philadelphia-brand cream cheese.

Two favorite fall fruits turn up in an interesting, herb-scented side dish.

Linda Forst of Mukilteo, Washington, writes: "I attended a conference in Anaheim, California, and went to dinner at Catal Restaurant & Uva Bar in Downtown Disney. The whole meal was outstanding, especially the 'compressed salad.'" For a "compressed" presentation, the chef uses a three-inch ring mold to mound the salad in the center of each plate. You can use a cleaned-out can, with top and bottom removed, as a mold.

Brandy, apples and cream add a taste of France's Normandy region to this entrée.

Serve this curry with condiments such as dried currants, sliced green onions, shredded coconut and toasted slivered almonds.

The cranberries add tartness, color and texture. Serve the pie with vanilla ice cream or sweetened whipped cream, if you like.

Apples bring a mild sweetness to this rich soup, which can be made a day ahead.

This light, refreshing salad is from Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix.

Minus the ice cream, this delicate pudding makes a wonderfully indulgent breakfast.