Raspberry Red Currant Torte

This is a currant and raspberry version of traubletorte, a classic German red currant torte. The meringue forms a smooth dome over the centre, leaving a small space between the meringue and cake. If you are a red currant fan, try the torte without the raspberries — either way, it's seed-crunchy — but it's only successful with fresh fruit. Serve mit schlag (with a healthy dollop of whipped cream).

Chocolate Thumbprints

Decorate these classic chocolate thumbprint cookies with sprinkles, sugar or candies to suit your taste.

Maple Butter Tarts with Pecans & Cashews

These iconic Canadian treats are rich, delicious and simply irresistible. 

Caramelized Panettone and Apple Puddings

Panettone is a sweet Italian bread filled with all kinds of dried fruit. While you can broil the sugared top to caramelize the apples, this is the ideal occasion to use a mini-blowtorch if you have one.

Lemon Coconut Tart

A crisp almond-coconut crust filled with tangy lemon-coconut curd is a delightful way to end a big holiday meal. Coconut milk gives the lemon curd a rich flavour without requiring the addition of butter. If you are a lemon dessert lover, this tart is for you!

Best Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

These are the best, most chewy peanut butter cookies you’ll ever have—we guarantee it. 

Wildflower Honey Cheesecake with Blueberry Compote

This small honey cheesecake creates a big “buzz” with its ultracreamy texture. Have the cream cheese, eggs and sour cream at room temperature and you'll achieve greatness.

Asparagus Mimosa Salad

Tender-crisp asparagus with a colourful egg, olive and artichoke garnish makes a beautiful presentation. Drizzling the vinaigrette just prior to serving ensures bright green, crisp asparagus.

Eggs Benedict with Asparagus

Triple Layer Squares

First Prize in Bars and Squares Category

Karen DeBeer of Moose Jaw, Sask., created this prize-winning square for her annual bake sale. The square was such a huge success that she now makes it all the time for family and friends.