pecans

There's only one dessert to serve at a Kentucky Derby viewing party, and that's pie. The original recipe for the authentic pie is a close guarded secret , but a quick Internet search proves that there are tons of chocolate-nut pie variations out there. This one is similar to a classic pecan pie, but with a rich brown sugar bourbon filling and chocolate chips. It needs time to bake and set and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. If you have time, I would make the pie on Friday night. For the delicious recipe, keep reading.

With its oozing center and rich, mild taste, baked brie is one holiday appetizer that many people look forward to. I'm definitely among this group: what's not to love about creamy, melted cheese?!

While brie en croute (brie that's baked in puff pastry) is a favorite, I prefer brie baked with nuts and jam. That way you can slather the warm mixture on crackers or crostini.

Although my recipe calls for pecans and strawberry jam, feel free to substitute other nuts, preserves, or even honey. This killer app is unbelievable easy to put together and requires virtually no culinary expertise. To look at my recipe, read more

During December, many people host cookie swaps. Organizing a festive cookie party is a great way to cut back on your holiday baking. Instead of making a million cookies, you and your friends each bake a different cookie. Then you get together and trade cookies; everyone walks away with an assortment of treats. To ensure that you don't end up with 10 dozen chocolate chip cookies, ask your guests what type of cookie they will bring. Throw the party on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon in between lunch and dinner.

Don't worry about serving a bunch of appetizers, but do offer a couple of easy nibbles like mixed nuts, cheese, and homemade savory cookies. Thyme, lemon, and sea-salt shortbread is crisp and buttery, while blue cheese pecan crackers are rich and addictive. You'll have to wait until tomorrow to see my suggested sweet cookie recipes, but you can learn the techniques for the salty shortbread and cheesy crackers when you keep reading.

Love pecan pie, but tired of making the same old Thanksgiving dessert? Then bake these brown-sugar-pecan cupcakes with caramel frosting instead! Seriously, these cupcakes are the best dessert I've tasted in weeks.

The fluffy batter is rich, but light with a distinct browned-butter flavor. Although it requires a little time to make, the caramel frosting is absolutely to die for. It's smooth and creamy with a sweet taste similar to caramel candies. The pecans tie the elements together and provide a breakfast-like texture to the cakes.

When I served these at a recent dinner party, I was shocked at how good they tasted. Everyone was simultaneously saying, "mmmm" and "these are amazing." You simply must make these delicious cupcakes. Get the recipe after the break.