A rich yeast dough flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest is rolled around a cream cheese-cinnamon filling with a hidden plastic baby, shaped into an oval, baked golden, then iced and decorated with festive purple, green, and yellow sanding sugar. This iconic New Orleans Mardi Gras tradition brings carnival spirit to any celebration, with the lucky baby-finder crowned king or queen of the party.

A smoky grilled corn and bean salad packed with black beans, chickpeas, bell peppers, and cilantro. Tossed in a zesty lime-cumin dressing with a splash of hot sauce.

Dense, fudgy brownies made with unsweetened chocolate and buttermilk for a rich, gooey center. The ultimate movie night indulgence.

Homemade banana chips baked low and slow at 250 degrees for two hours, served over ice cream drizzled with a warm guava jelly coulis. A tropical, island-inspired dessert that ends a Cuban-style meal on a sweet, sunny note.

Crisp iceberg wedges draped in a rich Gorgonzola and sour cream dressing with Roma tomatoes and shatteringly crispy baked pancetta. A steakhouse classic that embraces cheat day with its creamy, indulgent blue cheese dressing.

Crispy cornmeal-Parmesan crackers made from food processor dough, topped with wild mushrooms roasted at 450 degrees with tarragon and lemon. A sophisticated, earthy bite that elevates any wine club gathering with its rich, woodsy flavor.

Oven-roasted tomatoes, corn, poblano, onion, and garlic pulsed with cilantro, jalapeno, and spices, with fresh corn kernels stirred in for texture. A chunky, smoky-sweet salsa with incredible depth of flavor that puts store-bought jars to shame.

A buttery lime shortbread crust holds a silky mango-coconut milk-gelatin filling folded with whipped cream, topped with decorative fans of mango slices brushed in a tequila-lime glaze. This stunning, tropical tart is a showpiece dessert perfect for a festive summer gathering.

Toasted walnuts coated in a glossy mixture of corn syrup, maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon, baked until golden and caramelized. A sweet, crunchy nibble that sets a regal tone as guests arrive for an elegant dinner.

A classic pumpkin pie with a homemade flaky crust and warmly spiced pumpkin custard filling. A Thanksgiving staple made entirely from scratch.