Christmas

This recipe has been in the family of senior editor Randi Danforth for generations. Her great-grandmother bought penny sponge candy to take to the movies in Minnesota. A love for the crunchy sweet led to recipe experiments in the kitchen. Randi recalls watching her mother make this magical confection--the baking soda causes vigorous bubbling. Pack it in jars or airtight tins, and store at room temperature; exposure to moisture and air will soften the candy.

To accompany Ice-Cream Bombes with Brandied Dried Cranberries and Cherries

This dish was inspired by pain au chocolat, a chocolate-stuffed croissant that is adored by both children and adults in France. Cranberries have been added-perfect for a Christmas brunch.

Spiced cranberries top chilled orange slices for a sweet-tangy contrast in this colorful salad.

Because the more traditional dark fruitcakes aren't really to her liking, senior editor Sarah Belk created this one, filled with her favorite nuts and dried fruits. To make these gifts even more festive, she suggest decorating the glazed cakes with additional dried fruits and nuts.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The non-stick mini-muffin tins required for this recipe are available at many supermarkets.

The duck leg confit brings added richness to the bisque, but the soup is also delicious without it.

The sweet-tart filling and the flaky crust add up to one terrific pie.

A drizzle of white chocolate makes these Italian cookies holiday ready. For what it's worth, it's equally good on a classic almond biscotti, too.

Variations of this salad are often served on Christmas Eve in both old and New Mexico.