Name: Almond Sherry Christmas Trifle
Cook time: 1 1/2 hr
Total time: 12 hr (includes chilling)
Yield: Makes 8 to 10 servings
Ingredients: 3 ounces almond paste (1/3 cup); 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided; 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided; 1/4 teaspoon plus a pinch of salt, divided; 6 large egg yolks; 3 tablespoons whole milk; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract; 4 large egg whites at room temperature 30 minutes; 1 cup sour-cherry preserves; Sherry syrup; Vanilla custard; 1/3 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup confectioners sugar; 1 cup chilled heavy cream; 3 tablespoons medium-dry Sherry; 1 tablespoon sugar; Equipment: 2 (15-by 10-inch) 4-sided sheet pans; a 2 1/2 to 3-quart glass trifle or soufflé dish

Image may contain Food Bread Animal Dog Mammal Pet Canine Confectionery and Sweets

Almond Sherry Christmas TrifleRomulo Yanes

One of the great things about a trifle is that you make it ahead of time, so the cake can soak up the flavors of the custard, fruit, and syrup. Its a perfect holiday dessert.

Cooks notes:

•Praline almonds can be made 1 week ahead and kept in an airtight container.
•Trifle (without whipped cream and praline almonds) can be made 2 days ahead and chilled.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.