Pastries

Wisconsin cheddar stars in these flavorful and easy-to-make biscuits.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Fill these with sorbet and/or sliced fresh fruit.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Becoming a muffin master is easy. Flavor the basic muffin batter below by adding, for example:

• 1 chopped banana and 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup toasted almonds, 3/4 cup dried cranberries, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup chopped drained canned pineapple and 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 1 cup chopped dried apricots and 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

In these easy scones, cumin seeds complement the sharp cheddar, and self-rising flour eliminates the need for baking powder or baking soda. If you prepare the dough the night before, you can just pop the scones into the oven when guests arrive.

A delicious, healthful breakfast treat.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 25 min

Phyllo dough gives this dessert a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth lemon filling.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Here's a terrific twist on the classic fruit-and-shortcake theme.

We used a wire mesh cooling rack to form the decorative pattern on this pastry, but any metal cooling rack can be used. Also, if you have a small rack that cannot cover all the pastry at once, you will need to bake it in batches.

A colorful salad of cooked green beans, roasted red pepper strips and marinated artichoke hearts looks and tastes terrific with this meatless version of a classic. Pass a plate of brownies for dessert.