Pecan

From Charleston Grill, Charleston, South Carolina.

The Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes and a quick sauté of blanched green beans with red bell pepper strips are colorful side dishes. Finish with slices of angel food cake sauced with thawed sweetened raspberries and generous dollops of brandied whipped cream.

December bonus: great for gifts, too.

Though this ice cream was delicious made with regular butter and table salt, it was even better with European-style butter (like Plugrá) and fleur de sel. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 5 hr

The clever topping is made with a cake mix.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 30 min

"I have such special memories of my grandmother Mimi in the kitchen cooking and baking, all dressed up. My favorite cookies were her pecan crescents," says Barbara Hartwig of Sherwood, Wisconsin. "I am most fortunate to have her original recipe card. We still use it every year."

Our food editors loved shavings of Stilton cheese on these tarts. We understand that nobody has much room for dessert after a big meal, much less one with cheese, but these tarts are actually quite light and refreshing: The Stilton lends depth and provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet grapes and crust.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Cranberries originally grew wild in Wisconsin; now they are the state's leading commercial fruit crop. They're also a must on the Thanksgiving table. In this take on a holiday staple, the mincemeat filling is packed with dried cranberries, which lend a tart balance to the sweetness of the raisins.

You can replace the pecans with just about any nut — such as pine nuts, almonds or cashews — and get an equally delicious result, or use a variety for a more interesting dessert. Some dough will be left over, so you can bake a few cookies alongside the tart.

From the Pepper Mill in Clearwater, Florida.

Two new flavors enhance a classic.

A different take on favorite Thanksgiving flavors, this beautiful do-ahead pumpkin dessert is made even easier by the use of purchased sauce.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.