Coconut

In our test kitchen, Philadelphia-brand cream cheese gave us good results. This frosting would also be delicious on carrot cake or gingerbread.

The recipe for the coconut pudding is adapted from Mexican Light Cooking by Santa Fe-based chef Kathi Long.

"I like to keep sweets on hand during the holidays just in case someone drops in," says Laurie Schielock of Miami, Florida. "My sister Susan's truffle recipe is indispensable this time of year. The chocolate treats have a rich, smooth texture, they keep well, and they're perfect with a glass of Champagne." Flavor the chocolate mixture with some grated orange peel or espresso powder, if you like.

My grandma "Sweet Pea" was considering sharing her persimmon pudding recipe with Epicurious, but was afraid some Yankees wouldn't understand it. This pie is just as sweet though, and very simple to prepare.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

These cookies have a wonderful texture; chewy yet crunchy-just like a candy bar.

A caldin is a coconut curry, typical of Goa. Though caldins are made with fresh coconut milk in India, chef Cardoz uses Chaokoh brand canned unsweetened coconut milk. It's thicker and richer than other brands, and imparts a great deal of flavor. It's important not to let the caldin boil during cooking, or the coconut sauce will break.

"Since I moved from the West Coast to Santa Fe, I've been baking more quick breads because my recipes for yeast doughs just aren't the same without the sea air." Joan Nugent of Sante Fe, New Mexico. "A leftover can of coconut milk inspired this recipe for muffins. To guarantee that I always have something interesting for breakfast, I prepare extras and freeze them."

The coconut in this recipe gives a chewiness to these thin cookies.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

When freshly baked, these appealing cookies are chewy, crisp, and tender all at the same time. If stored in an airtight container for a day, they are still delicious, only softer.

Don't waste your time looking for green peas in this recipe. In Jamaica, you'll often hear kidney beans called peas. Locals consume "rice and peas" so frequently that some people say it should be on the nation's coat of arms. In this version — which Lezlene Brown, a cook at a villa in Ocho Rios, serves to guests and family — the Scotch bonnet chile is there to contribute only the merest hint of heat and to amplify the flavors of the other ingredients.

When you're cooking with veggies, don't overlook dessert! This cake has great texture, thanks to both pureed and grated carrots. It's delicious with or without frosting and great for parties.