Cream Cheese

Since this cheesecake needs to chill for several hours, it's easiest to bake it a day ahead of time.

We got the idea for these pancakes from The Compound Restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where hot polenta-mascarpone pancakes were the perfect finale to a delicious dinner. They also make a terrific breakfast. Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min

One of our staff members is addicted to the rich, mellow taste of his friend Stephanie's walnut cookies. She began making them as a young bride thirty-five years ago, and her family has never celebrated the holidays without a batch or two since.

To make graham cracker crumbs, add the crackers (broken into small pieces) to processor and blend until finely ground. For best results, use Philadelphia-brand cream cheese. Bake the cheesecake at least one day and up to two days before serving.

Espresso, chocolate and orange star in a very rich, very elegant cheesecake.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A luscious tropical treat enhanced with a delicious crust made of gingersnap cookies and macadamia nuts. Begin preparing this one day before you plan to serve it.

Thirty-six garlic cloves may sound like a lot, but they're cooked until mellow in flavor. This recipe was created to accompany Spiced Beef Tenderloin Steaks with Mango Salsa.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The creamy tequila-orange filling contrasts perfectly with the tart cranberry topping.