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.

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.

Squash and Caramelized Onion Lasagna

This twist on lasagna is great for a Saturday night get-together. Serve with salad and a special loaf of bread.

Apple Loaf with Spiced Streusel Topping