A delicious take on Maine’s official state treat: Red Velvet Whoopie Pies—and they’re pure magic. Sour cream keeps the cakes moist and airy, with a decadent cream cheese frosting filling. Topped with a white chocolate drizzle and pecans, they’re bakery-worthy and surprisingly easy to make!
Dessert
Claire Saffitz’s Meyer Lemon Tart
Claire Saffitz’s Meyer Lemon Tart is the perfect winter pick-me-up. A buttery, crisp crust layered with sweet raspberry jam and topped with a smooth, tangy Meyer lemon curd enriched with Greek yogurt and lemon zest creates an irresistible balance. Bright, fresh, and delicious – this tart is sure to cure your winter blues.
Hana Asbrink’s Miso White Chocolate-Macadamia Cookies
These cookies take my childhood favorite to the next level. Hana Asbrink’s recipe blends brown butter, miso, and macadamia nuts for the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and just a hint of savory. Trust me, they’re unforgettable—and officially my go-to cookie from now on.
David Tanis’s Cranberry Curd Tart
David Tanis’s Cranberry Curd Tart features a silky, orange-zested cranberry curd baked in a rich hazelnut crust. This NYT Cooking favorite has nearly 10,000 ratings and a perfect 5/5 stars. Whether for the holidays or an unexpected mid-March treat, it’s a beautifully balanced dessert worth making year-round.
Stella Park’s Dark Chocolate Cream Pie
Celebrated Pi(e) Day with Stella Parks’ Dark Chocolate Cream Pie featuring an all-butter crust, espresso-infused chocolate pudding, and towering meringue. While visually impressive, the slices didn’t hold well and the combination was overly sweet. Next time, I’ll opt for lightly sweetened whipped cream instead.
Boston Cream Puffs
Marking a special anniversary with a twist on Boston Cream Pie—Boston Cream Puffs! Inspired by Ina Garten, these dreamy pastries combine her cream puff recipe with Grand Marnier pastry cream and chocolate glaze. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevates every bite. A perfect way to celebrate with the best homemade dessert!
Claire Saffitz’s Millionaire Shortbread
Enjoy Oscar Sunday with Claire Saffitz’s exquisite Millionaire Shortbread, a Scottish-inspired treat featuring buttery shortbread, chewy caramel, and dark chocolate topped with sea salt. This decadent dessert, we discovered during a 2022 Scotland trip, perfectly balances sweetness while providing a delicious companion to award night.
Pam Lolly’s Praline-Cream Cheese King Cake
My first Mardi Gras king cake experience using Southern Living’s Praline-Cream Cheese recipe was a delicious success. This traditional New Orleans treat combines yeasted sour cream dough with cinnamon pecan cream cheese filling, topped with buttery glaze and symbolic colored sprinkles. Only thing missing was the plastic baby!