Rum

Tangy crème fraîche and a very grown-up rum-pineapple topping take cheesecake to an entirely new level. For best results, use Philadelphia-brand cream cheese.

The coffee in this cake may be replaced with a sweet fruit liqueur or with orange juice.

Golden Delicious apples, as well as other good baking varieties like Rome Beauty, are a natural choice here.

Be sure to make this dessert at least one day ahead to allow the flavors to blend.

Since this cheesecake needs to chill for several hours, it's easiest to bake it a day ahead of time.

A new take on a classic. For an exotic touch, sprinkle with chopped crystallized ginger before serving.

This ultra-rich dessert is inspired by the classic Rigó Jancsi cake, named for the legendary Hungarian Gypsy violinist. Make it one day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.

For years, pumpkins were planted in central-state cornfields to help the corn's roots cool in the summer. This pretty roll cake is an impressive alternative to classic pumpkin pie.

Flourless cakes with a pudding-like center.

The classic almond mixture known as frangipane fills an almond crust. Sweet plums and a brandied glaze top it off.

Majorca, Spain When this dessert is made on Majorca, rum-soaked raisins are baked on top. Here the filling is flavored with rum; then the cake is served with a strawberry compote.

Here is the perfect present for those who indulge in holiday eggnog — a mixture of spirit and spice to blend into the Christmas beverage. To make the gift complete, pour it into a beautiful bottle and tie a small nutmeg grater and some whole nutmegs around the neck with a festive ribbon.

This tart is a great last-minute dessert for just about any meal, and it's quite possible you have all the ingredients in your kitchen right now. Grind your own crumbs if you've got whole graham crackers on hand.