Baking

The ciabatta does require a simple sponge but it takes only a few minutes to put together the day before making the bread. Though the dough for ciabatta is very wet and sticky, resist the temptation to add more flour. For this recipe you will need a baking stone or unglazed "quarry" tiles. Baking stones are available at cookware shops and by mail order from The Baker's Catalogue, tel. (800) 827-6836. Tiles are also available at the above sources as well as at many tile stores listed in the Yellow Pages.

An impressive but easy dessert that's like a custard with fruit baked in it. In the summertime, make it with fresh peaches or plums instead of the pears.

(Russian Potato-and-Cabbage Turnovers)

The texture of these spicy offerings varies according to baking time. Underbake them if you are partial to a chewy cookie; give them an extra minute or two in the oven if a crisp cookie is desired.

Molasses adds richness to this cake. It has a down-home style that's just right for a more casual turkey dinner.

The delicious macadamia nut crust is an innovative twist on a favorite dessert.

At the Markham in New York, this cake is served with toasted almond ice cream.

Here asparagus stars in a first-course tart accented with tarragon and Parmesan Cheese.

Mayonnaise is the surprise ingredient in these cookies.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.