Maple Almond Tuiles

These crisp, light and nutty cookies make an impressive addition to any sweets tray. Draping the still-warm cookies over a greased rolling pin creates their signature curve; for a more subtle curve, use a wider-barrelled rolling pin, and for a more exaggerated shape, use a narrow one.

Pear & Almond Mascarpone Tart

Orange Chicken Skewers & Sautéed Fennel

Steamed Chocolate Pudding

You can make this light, cakey pudding in one pan or six small moulds.

Almond Cake with Candied Apples & Beet Caramel

Maple Apple Tarte Tatin

Here's a Canadian version of the classic French upside-down apple pie. Golden Delicious apples are best because they hold their wedge shape, making for a show- stopping presentation.

The Ultimate Crêpes

Master the (very simple!) art of crêpe-making and you've got endless possibilities, both savoury and sweet. The thin unleavened pancakes are an ideal base for everything from veggies and meat to fruit and chocolate.

Cherry and Ricotta Turnovers

Flaky turnovers with a tart cherry and rich ricotta filling are a welcome addition to any table. Look for butter puff pastry in the freezer section of your grocery store and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For an extra layer of crunch, sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts or sliced almonds onto the turnovers before baking.

Soy-Glazed Beef Meatballs

These aren't your nonna's meatballs, but they're just as juicy, tender and flavourful. We take this version up a notch with a sweet and savoury glaze that's great in a noodle salad, on personal naan pizzas and bathed in a lemony broth with orzo and zucchini.

Dragonfly Cookies

Fluttering dragonflies will catch everyone's eyes with their colourful sparkle and brilliant shades. Insert lollipop sticks into a few cookies before chilling them to make cookie pops.