Chorizo and Black Bean Empanadas

While these savoury little pies take a bit of time to prepare, they are well worth the effort. The dough is forgiving and can handle being stretched over the filling. Serve with a tomatillo or tomato salsa.

Irish Cream Pudding Bowls

Boozy custard is a treat in itself, but we take it over the top by serving it in homemade chocolate bowls.

White Chocolate Cherry Torte

This elegant torte combines cherries, almonds and smooth white chocolate custard. Make the components ahead of time so it's just a matter of quick assembly before serving.

Single-Crust All-Purpose Pastry

Eggnog

Dot's Lobster Dip

Melted butter and lemon are classic with lobster, but cooked sauce has its fans. Dot Toombs of Kensington makes this fine, sweet one.

Single-Crust Sweet Pastry Pie Shell

Perfect Pastry

Cinnamon Custard

Cranberry Cake with Orange Cheesecake Ripple

Crème anglaise, a French term for rich custard sauce, instantly elevates cake, pie, pudding or fruit. Here, we've used it to turn this swirled sweet-tart Bundt cake—which can be enjoyed on its own as an everyday treat—into a dinner party–worthy dessert.