Slow Cooker Mini Orange and Ginger Cheesecakes

This simple method for cooking cheesecake means a less-fussy water bath and no cracked tops. Lining the underside of the slow cooker lid with paper towels keeps the moist heat in while also preventing condensation from dripping onto the cakes. If you use canning jars, these individual cakes are easy to take to a dinner party; just screw on the lids, tote them in a cooler and garnish before serving. Cost: $1.60/serving

Raspberry Shine Cheesecake

This delicious cake has a shiny mirror-like raspberry glaze that will wow guests at your holiday party. Chill on a baking sheet just in case any of the raspberry glaze leaks through the springform pan.

Happy Clown Birthday Cake

Kids of all ages will have a great time decorating this cake with their favourite candies. If the icing colours aren't your kids' favourites, try out some other combinations.

Cranberry White Chocolate Biscotti

The chocolate sets very quickly in the refrigerator, which is also the ideal storage space for these biscotti—especially if your kitchen is warm from holiday baking.

Blueberry Cornmeal Cobbler

This fruity dessert takes only minutes to prepare, making it a lovely finish to a weeknight meal. Cornmeal adds a bit of crunch to the classic biscuit topping.

Best Butter Tarts

Whether runny or firm, with raisins or nuts, butter tarts are treats that never go out of style. Because any sugar filling that overflows the pastry hardens quickly and sticks to the pan, be sure to remove the tarts as directed. Or count on family members to hang around the kitchen waiting to eat the tarts that stick and break.

New York Style Cheesecake With Pineapple Rum Sauce

This tall, creamy cheesecake has a delightfully retro feel. A pinch of allspice in the batter adds a hint of the tropics. The pineapple topping is best if made just before serving.

Piri-Piri Chicken Dumplings

Cherry Almond White Chocolate Biscotti

These are ideal dunked in a cup of coffee or tea. Or serve alongside a glass of Vin Santo or other dessert wine. Use blanched or unblanched almonds.

White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse Tarte

A marzipan pumpkin patch turns a splendid pie into delicious whimsy.