Name: Ginger Cake
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Yield: Makes 8 to 10 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 4 teaspoons ground ginger; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 cup blackstrap molasses*; 1 cup boiling-hot water; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; Accompaniment: lightly sweetened whipped cream

This dark, moist cake gets its deep flavor from blackstrap molasses, which may not sound appealing on its own but is wonderful in this cake.

Cooks' note:

Batter can be baked in 18 buttered 1/2-cup muffin cups until muffins are springy to the touch, 20 to 25 minutes.

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.