Custard

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. When blood oranges are out of season, you can use any type of seedless orange.

Raw sugar melts easily and makes a nice crunchy topping on the custards.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This foamy custard is a traditional Italian dessert. Delicious with no accompaniment at all, it's even better spooned over fresh fruit or served with biscotti. Be sure to have anything else you plan to serve with the zabaglione ready to go, as it really is best eaten just seconds off the stove.

This dessert has a silky texture and intense flavors. Begin preparing it a day ahead.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 4 hr

Begin making this ultra-creamy flan (think crème brûlée) one day before serving.

Serve this perfect fall dessert after a dinner of roast pork tenderloin.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Here's a rich, creamy classic with a tropical twist. Begin preparing it a day ahead.

Begin preparing the custards a day ahead so that they can chill overnight.

We love the added flavor and texture the crust brings to this dessert, but if you're short on time, the crème caramel on its own is still delicious.

Try this sweet alternative to fat-and cholesterol-laden crème brûlée.