These Petits Coeurs Almond Cheesecakes are just the way I like dessert, creamy but not too sweet. Almond paste adds richness and its distinct amaretto flavor.  There is no crust on these little cakes. A light coating of breadcrumbs help the little cakes release from the pan. The batter cooks quickly. You’ll have perfect dessert in no time. When making this or any cheesecake, soften the cream cheese at room temperature before you start. If

This apple galette is my go-to, all-time favorite dessert to make for company. Super crisp crust with lots of flaky layers. Fruit that develops an intense flavor.  Leftovers taste as good for breakfast, if you don’t refrigerate the tart. (The crust gets soggy and there is no reheating technique I’ve discovered that revives it.) Jump to Recipe This wonderful crisp galette owes its success to many tricks I’ve learned over the years.  First the dough,

Thinking ahead about Easter and the treats to serve? I’m a lifelong fan of marzipan, which is made from blanched almonds, sugar and some liquid sugar to make it malleable. The combination of marzipan and dark chocolate in these Mocha Marzipan Truffles is a natural. (They look like Easter eggs from Mars, where we might fine new friends.) The rich toasted notes of good-quality bitter chocolate balance the sweet almond flavors.  When spiked with a

Each season I audition cookies to make for the holidays. My palate prefers spicy, toasty notes over pure sugar.  Shortbread and these Almond Spice Sugar Cookies with Chocolate Coffee Crumbs appeal to me. A sugar cookie should be crisp, buttery and slightly sweet. Blanched almond flour adds a toasty note and warm baking spices suggest the winter holidays in these cut-out cookies. Although these cookies can be decorated with any sort of icing, the combination

A patisserie staple, almond financiers are a favorite and a treat that is easily made at home. These buttery little cakes deceive. Their delicately crisp texture hides a melting crumb of deliciousness. Yes, I have my weaknesses, and these are among them.   Blanched almond flour softens the crumb in these tender cakes. Browned butter gives them their rich flavor and melt-in-the mouth quality. If you’ve never made browned butter before, give it a try.