Snack

Keep the apricots submerged in the poaching liquid, or they will turn brown. Mixed with seltzer water, the poaching liquid makes a refreshing apricot fizz.

For individual bread puddings, divide the mixture among eight buttered 6-ounce ramekins; reduce the cooking time to 40 minutes.

To produce the delightful hard surface that crackles when tapped with a spoon, you will need to brown the sugared tops with a small kitchen blowtorch, available at most specialty stores.

Wide and shallow 9-ounce molds are perfect for crème brûlée because they provide ample surface area, ensuring a bit of crunchy topping in every bite. You’ll need five of them for this recipe. Ten 4-ounce ramekins can be used instead; reduce the sugar topping for each custard to 1 1/2 teaspoons, and add 10 minutes to the baking time, as the custards are deeper.

For individual servings, divide the pudding among six 6-ounce ramekins; reduce the cooking time to 25 minutes.

If you prefer to omit the bourbon, simply double the amount of hot water.

Use red-fleshed papayas, such as Sunrise Solo or Maradol. Be sure to ask your grocer which ones will have flesh with a rosy hue since a papaya’s skin and shape may not be a good indication of its interior color.

For perfectly smooth slices, cut the layered cake with a hot serrated knife. The cake can be wrapped well in plastic wrap and stored in the freezer for up to 3 weeks.

This easy sherbet has the rich, creamy texture of ice cream; it’s best eaten within a day or two of being made. An ice-cream maker is unnecessary, but if you prefer to use one, just follow the manufacturer’s instructions.