Poppy Seed Wreath

All over eastern Europe, the poppy seed and honey combination is ubiquitous in breads and pastries during the holiday season. The trick to maximizing the unique flavour of the poppy seeds is to boil and then grind them in a food processor. This brings out the oils in the seeds and turns the filling into a paste. This wreath brings that one-of-a-kind filling to the surface to shine. Moving the rolled-up dough can be difficult, so be sure to roll it up and shape it on the pan that will go into the oven.

Cherry-Berry Bannock Shortcakes with Maple Toffee Sauce

This twist on strawberry shortcake uses sweetened mini versions of bannock, a traditional aboriginal bread, in place of the usual biscuits. The maple-kissed toffee sauce adds an extra Canadian touch.

Partridge or Pheasant Pie

Partridge and pheasant both have delicate chickenlike meat with a distinct boost of flavour. This celebratory pie will be a hit.

Tourtiere recipe and instructions

Tourtiere is the creme de la creme of pies. Lightly spiced and herbed, this pork pie is especially anticipated for Christmas Eve celebrations, but it's equally tasty throughout the holidays and winter months. Tourtiere is completely make-ahead, delicious when turkey or chicken take over for pork and perfectly complemented by a tangy relish such as chili sauce.

Smoked Brined Turkey

This turkey is full of flavour thanks to the brine and smoke. Cooking on the barbecue not only allows you to smoke the bird but also keeps your oven free for other dishes. For best results, do not use a bird larger than 13 lb (6 kg) on the barbecue. You'll need about 2-1/2 cups applewood chips; be sure to soak them in water for an hour before using.

Individual Salmon Pot Pies

These decadent, creamy, flaky-top pot pies are filled with some of the best Canadian ingredients: salmon, bacon, Dijon mustard, potato and leek. For an added dose of patriotic pride at your Olympic party, use a tiny maple leaf–shaped cookie cutter to cut out the steam vents on top.

Carrot Cake Cheesecake

Serve up this decadent pairing of cheesecake and carrot cake topped with vanilla frosting for the best of both dessert worlds.

Vegetable Wellington

Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse Cake

Crunchy meringue, silky mousse, moist chocolate cake and decadent ganache give flavour and texture to this ultimate cake, which is well worth the effort to make. You'll find already skinned roasted hazelnuts in some supermarkets. If not, just follow the tip, below.

Black Forest Pie

This modern take on crowd-pleasing Black Forest cake is the perfect ending to your holiday meal. Chocolate Christmas trees and a fluffy whipped cream topping transform this pie into a winter wonderland.