Frozen Dessert

At The Lakefront restaurant, this sensational dessert is served with bittersweet chocolate sauce or a simple dusting of cocoa powder and a few fresh strawberries.

"The highlight of our trip to Scotland was a stay at Knockinaam Lodge in Portpatrick, on the southwest coast," writes Walter Deegan of Fairfax, Virginia. "My wife still talks about the caramel ice cream served for dessert one evening."

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 4 hr (includes chilling and freezing)

(Gelat de Crema Catalana i Xerès amb Mel i Figues) The mellow, almond flavor of Amontillado Sherry works especially well in this rich, creamy dessert.

What to drink: Fess Parker 2000 Late Harvest Muscat Canelli, Santa Barbara County, or another sweet dessert wine with orange and honey flavors.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Zabaglione is the Italian version of the foamy, custardy sauce known as sabayon in France. I found that freezing it for this dessert gave it a texture much like that of ice cream. For an extra-pretty presentation, garnish this with fresh raspberries, orange segments, mint leaves and additional sliced, toasted almonds.

No custard stands in the way of the peach flavor in this simple-to-make ice cream, so only the sweetest fresh peaches will do.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Any favorite ice cream can be used in these treats. Both the walnut cookies and the "sandwiches" themselves can be prepared several days in advance.

This dessert is a refreshing way to conclude a spicy southwestern meal. For a festive note, dip the rims of frozen Margarita glasses into water and then into a bowl of sugar. Attach a lime slice to the lip of the glass and fill with sorbet.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.