Strawberry Blondies

Blondies are famously unfussy but remarkably delicious. They lend themselves to plenty of adaptations, including this iced, strawberry-filled one. Every crumb of these disappeared from our Test Kitchen in record time. 

Carrot Ginger Cupcakes

A double dose of ginger (ground and crystallized) brings these moist, carrot-filled cupcakes to life – and a swirl of cream cheese icing takes them over the top! If you like, garnish each cupcake with chopped crystallized ginger.

Mini Carrot Cake Loaves

Carrot cake is a favourite with its all-important cream cheese icing, but the addition of crystallized ginger takes it up a notch.

New-Fashioned Gingerbread

Ginger lovers of the world unite to enjoy this rich, moist cake featuring dried and crystallized ginger. A dollop of ginger-accented whipped cream adds a touch of luxury.

Strawberry Cobblers With Pistachio Chocolate Sauce

Chocolate Toffee Meringue Drops

Inspired by traditional Italian cookies known as "brutti ma buoni," which translates to "ugly, but good," these airy, crispy and chewy meringue drops are essential holiday goodies.

Chocolate Cappuccino Brownie Cheesecake Squares

Coffee-flavoured cheesecake marbled with fudgey brownie makes these irresistible. For best results, refrigerate overnight.

Mini No-Bake Cheesecakes

These mini-cheesecakes are served in 1/2-cup canning jars at Charcut Roast House, a popular Calgary eatery that specializes in charbroiled and rotisserie meats and charcuterie. Chef, owner and “Top Chef Canada” finalist Connie DeSousa shared this simple dessert recipe. In season, try substituting chopped fresh fruit or whole berries for the preserves.

Peanut Butter Fudge Balls

Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Cake

Ideal for a fun dinner with friends or a cozy night at home, this fudgy cake is best served straight out of the slow cooker while still warm. For an extra treat, dust cocoa powder over top of the spiced whipped cream. Cost: $0.50/serving