Graham Cracker

Editor's note: The recipe and introductory text below are from Icebox Desserts by Lauren Chattman. Lavender honey is especially fragrant and flavorful, but any other favorite honey is fine in this wholesome-tasting pie. I think fresh peaches sweetened with a little honey and cinnamon are the perfect accompaniment, but plums, berries, or any other fresh fruit of your choice may be substituted. Use organic, whole-milk yogurt if at all possible. The Stonyfield Farm brand is widely available at supermarkets and natural foods stores.

We used store-bought graham cracker crumbs to save time; if you prefer to make your own in a food processor, you'll need 13 crackers, each about 4 3/4 by 2 1/4 inches. Freezing the tart helps to chill it quickly. If you're not in a rush, simply chill the tart in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve it.

Make the cake a day ahead so that it has plenty of time to chill.

Key limes are also known as Mexican or West Indian limes. If you can't find them in your area, substitute bottled Key lime juice. We've tried several different brands in our test kitchens, and prefer the taste of Manhattan.* This recipe is modified from the classic one found on many condensed milk and Key lime juice labels; we've added additional lime juice for more tartness.

If you can't find fresh Key limes in your area, you can substitute bottled Key lime juice. We've tried several different kinds in our test kitchen, and the only one we like so far is Manhattan brand*.

This is like a light-textured cheesecake. It needs to chill overnight, so plan ahead.

Caramel and orange add sophisticated French flair to this rich American dessert. Begin preparing it at least a day ahead.

A decadent, impressive dessert that appeals to everyone's inner Boy Scout or Girl Scout. Begin preparing this a day ahead.

Pureed fresh mango gives this cheesecake a light and soft texture and subtle tropical fruit flavor.

Begin preparing this a day before serving.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This tart is a great last-minute dessert for just about any meal, and it's quite possible you have all the ingredients in your kitchen right now. Grind your own crumbs if you've got whole graham crackers on hand.

Vermont's maple sugaring season is in early spring, and Vermont Grade B maple syrup-which has a more pronounced flavor than Grade A-is available by mail order in quart-size containers from Highland Sugarworks, Websterville, VT, tel. (800) 452-4012.

This is a dessert version of classic fried savory ravioli, dressed up with custard sauce.