Grand Marnier

In this recipe there will be extra mousse and pecan crisps (the recipes will not work if reduced). Both elements are delicious on their own.

Parisians love chocolate, and cooks in Paris might make this with Valrhona, one of the best French brands. Begin preparing the dessert a day ahead.

Canadian bacon makes a great accompaniment.

For convenience, these can be made up to three days ahead.

Active time: 1 1/4 hr Start to finish: 6 1/4 hr (includes chilling)

Espresso and a selection of favorite liqueurs are good with the brownies.

This traditional New Orleans drink was apparently first developed during Prohibition at the famous eatery Antoine's. Customers were able to enjoy alcohol in a Cognac-laced coffee disguised in a pedestal coffee cup especially designed by the chef.

As Italian restaurants continue to grow in popularity, so does tiramisù. We updated this dessert made of triple cream cheese from Italy (mascarpone), ladyfingers, espresso and cocoa powder by adding nuts and tangerine juice and serving it frozen.

If you don't feel like making your own vanilla ice cream for these red, white and blue sundaes, simply pick up a premium brand at the supermarket.

The perennial Christmas gift gets a luscious face-lift in this impressive cake. We guarantee that it won't get shuffled around, and no one will make any jokes about it. Store the cake in the refrigerate for up to three weeks before giving. Wrap it in some red or green cellophane, and present it in a decorative box (a hatbox is fun) tied with a big, bright bow.

Grand Marnier gives an extra kick to the frozen orange mousse, and pistachios make the crust crunchy. Start preparing this at least a day before you plan to serve it.

Cornmeal in the crust gives a nice contrast to the creamy filling in this dessert.

This moist orange-flavored soufflé is rich with white chocolate. Offer snifters of orange liqueur to sip alongside.