If the stomach is indeed the way to a loved one's heart, then this ultra-decadent chocolate cake is sure to seal the deal. Just as easy and versatile as a cake mix— but way more moist and delicious—it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again.
This fantastic dessert should stay refrigerated until serving. Use a hot knife, wiping it clean after each cut to get pristine edges.
This intensely rich dark chocolate cake is for grown-ups only (but you can find the recipe for our kid-friendly version, Spiced Chocolate Bundt Cake, below). We used Cabernet Sauvignon for its balance of deep fruity and black pepper flavours, but you can use whatever type of red you have on hand. A sprinkling of our Candied Sage gives the cake an extra-special finish.
Tall, dark and rich, this super-chocolaty cake spikes up the drama on your buffet table. A subtle hint of raspberry complements all the chocolate. Bake it, then layer together at least a day before the final assembly. Refrigerated, the finished cake can await your guests for up to two days.
This pie may have a lot of ingredients, but you'll likely find most of them in your pantry. Bonus: You can make the pie the night before and then keep it in your fridge until you're ready to beat the whipped cream topping and serve. Roll out the extra dough this recipe yields and cut it into shapes to add to your cookie tray.
Look for white chocolate cigars at specialty chocolate shops, baking supply stores or online. Once you've tracked them down, measure their diameter and calculate how many you need to cover 38-inch (97 cm) and 26-inch (66 cm) round cakes. Of course, you'll want to have extras for any repair work. You will need double-sided tape to fasten the ribbons around the cakes, and twine to tie wildflowers in a delicate bundle.
This tall chocolate and orange multi-tiered cake will make a great impression on a couple's big day. The colours can be made to work with any palette; just be sure to go light and dark enough on either end to allow for a gradient of colour on the middle two tiers.
