Makes 6 servings This soup, from Michoacán in Western Mexico, is perfect at the end of summer when the tomatoes and corn are at their best, but it’s just as flavorful in the winter, and even quicker to make from canned tomatoes and frozen corn. If you wish, you can […]
Mocha Torte
Makes one 8-inch torte A torte is a European-style pastry typically made with layers of sponge cake, a jam or cream filling, and a frosting. These rich and complex desserts are often enjoyed in the middle of the afternoon, served with coffee or tea, rather than as a dessert following […]
Mudslide Cookies
Makes 24 large cookies
Oysters with Cranberry Mignonette
Makes 8 servings This cranberry-infused mignonette is tart and acidic—just right paired with sweet in-season oysters. If serving as a cocktail appetizer, serve the oysters with the sauce on the side for guests to fix themselves.
Pastry Cream
Makes about 2 cups Pastry cream, which is essentially vanilla pudding, is incredibly versatile. It is commonly found as a filling in eclairs or as the base of a fresh fruit tart, but you can also use it for trifles, as a layer cake filling, in a cream pie, or […]
Peanut Butter Nougat
Makes one 9 by 13-inch slab All of the goodness of peanut butter in a light nougat—nothing could be better, except maybe adding some chocolate. This nougat pairs well with both dark and milk chocolate. The texture of the nougat will improve a day or two after it is made. […]
Pecan Diamonds
The Iconic Pecan Diamond Are they a cookie? A dessert? A bite-size pecan pie? Craig Claiborne of The New York Times called them the “sweet hallmark” of CIA, and they are. Pecan Diamonds have been a CIA tradition for nearly six decades. They were offered to guests with coffee at […]
Pistou
Makes about 3/4 cup Pistou is the subtly different French version of pesto, the fragrant Italian herb paste. While pesto typically includes nuts, pistou may or may not. The key ingredients for both are basil, olive oil, garlic, and cheese. In fact, the first version of pistou was essentially a […]
Poached Fuyu Persimmons with Vanilla Ice Cream
Makes 8 servings Persimmons are sweet and mild in flavor with a plump texture that pairs beautifully with ice cream and a crisp topping. If you like, crumble gingersnaps in place of the baked crisp topping. If you can’t find ripe persimmons, you can substitute apple, pear, quince, or virtually […]
Poaching Pears
Apples get an unfair amount of attention during the fall, but pears want to be covered in caramel, too! Pears are kind of the dark-horse of the fall produce scene. Some people don’t like their mealy texture, and we’ve probably all bitten into way more bad pears than bad apples. […]
Quiche Lorraine
Makes one 9-inch quiche; serves 6 to 8
Rhubarb Mini-Muffins
Makes 24 mini-muffins These tender mini-muffins are the perfect mix of sweet and tart, highlighting our spring favorite: rhubarb! Once rhubarb season has passed, you can use this recipe with raspberries, peaches, or any fruit that suits your fancy. Depending on the size of your muffin pan, you may have […]