Chocolate

This dessert couldn't be simpler to put together. The no-bake crust is made from cookie crumbs and butter, and the pie itself cooks in just ten minutes.

It's hard to improve on chocolate layer cake, but we think we've done just that, thanks to a hint of mint. Offer vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt alongside.

White Chocolate Tartlets with Strawberries and Bananas These irresistible sweets feature a hazelnut crust that is lined with dark chocolate and filled with white chocolate mousse.

Here's an ultra-rich ice cream that's loaded with pecans and chocolate chunks.

(Bittersweet Chocolate and Marshmallow Cookie Sandwiches) Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

This ultra-rich dessert is inspired by the classic Rigó Jancsi cake, named for the legendary Hungarian Gypsy violinist. Make it one day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.

We have transformed this classic dessert from Blum's coffee shops, which used to grace the streets of San Francisco, into a low-fat luxury. We use caramel and Rice Krispies in the crust instead of fat-laden nuts — and you'd never guess that the rich chocolate coffee filling has no butter in it.

Marcel Desaulniers, owner of The Trellis in Williamsburg, Virginia, is known as a master of chocolate. This recipe shows why.

These cakes are great for parties because they can be completely assembled the day before and then quickly baked before serving, for the all-important "ooze" factor.

These sand tart cookies are a dream, and actually are the best version I have had of this popular Southern cookie. Aunt Mary made her cookies with ground pecans added to the batter. Halfway through the baking she sprinkled on grated chocolate. These cookies have a seductive "gritty" texture, and are perfect with ice cream, fresh fruit, a cup of coffee or tea, or simply to satisfy a longing sweet tooth.

A chocolaty version of a rich French gâteau called, aptly, a financier, this cake shows how ground nuts, melted chocolate, butter, and beaten egg whites can result in a deceptively light texture. An elegant dessert, it needs nothing more than a dusting of confectioners' sugar to finish it off.

A delectable new take on the old-fashioned summer shortcake.