Crème de Cassis

Festive and pretty, this do-ahead dessert is a boon for busy hosts.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The crust of this gorgeous dessert is brushed with a layer of melted milk chocolate for a sweet surprise.

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

Pack the fruit and sauce separately, and keep the sauce chilled.

Surprise — a bit of ketchup helps the sweet and tart flavors blend. Make this up to three days ahead.

For convenience, chill these individual eggless custards overnight before serving. The sauce can also be made a day ahead.

Cranberries are cultivated in Canada, and tradition there calls for hosts to make a punch for Christmas guests. Here, the crop and the custom merge in a delightful champagne cocktail, which takes a French turn with the addition of crème de cassis.

Kir royale, the French aperitif of Champagne with a splash of cassis, becomes a sophisticated sorbet or granita. If you have them, Champagne coupes or martini glasses make elegant servers.

Begin preparing this delicious dessert at least one day ahead.

A beautiful dessert for the December entertaining season.

This light, lovely dessert is a refreshing way to end the meal. Partner the fruit with sesame cookies.