Custard-Topped Berry Kuchen

This moist, tender coffee cake scented with lemon and nutmeg is a farmhouse classic that's sturdy enough to carry to picnics or potlucks. It is irresistible with coffee or a glass of milk, especially when still warm from the oven.

Spiced Pork Chops With Golden Onions

Allspice is not a blend of spices, as its name might suggest, but rather a single spice that tastes like a mix of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Rubbed on pork chops, it makes an everyday dish special. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes. Cost: $3.55/serving

Vanilla Eggnog

A smooth alternative to dessert, you can jazz up this fireside favourite — depending on your taste and what you have on hand — with one of our kicky variations. If you don't have a vanilla bean, add 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla to the cooled eggnog instead. If you like, sprinkle with 1 tsp (5 mL) grated nutmeg instead of the chocolate.

Eggnog Pie

We've turned the beloved holiday drink into an extra-creamy, richly flavoured pie that's sure to be a hit with your guests. For the flakiest and tenderest crust, handle the dough as little as possible.

Breakfast Muffins

Breakfast Muffins

Perfect Plum Cake

A sponge cake with a creamy filling and crumbly topping makes for a winner of a coffee cake. "This recipe belonged to my great-grandmother and has been passed down through the generations," says Susan. The cake will keep for up to two days.

Plum Crumb Cake

To keep the soft cake and crumble layers distinct, use firm, slightly underripe, not-too-juicy plums. Look for red varieties, such as Vanier or Burbank, or even blue prune or yellow plums.

Gluten-Free Pear & Ricotta Cheesecake

Rum Raisin Muffins

Mix the dry ingredients the night before and bake these holiday muffins fresh for Christmas morning or a holiday brunch. To replace the rum, use 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla in 1/4 cup (50 mL) water.

Eggnog Knot Cookies

Enjoy all the flavours of eggnog in a sweet, simple knotted cookie that is guaranteed to be a hit on any festive cookie platter. When glazing the cookies, place the cooling rack over waxed or parchment paper to catch any drops and make cleanup a breeze.