Cheese

Using the freshest eggs possible is the key to great poached eggs. This dish makes a savory breakfast or, when paired with a salad, a satisfying brunch.

This dish is a nice choice for a special breakfast because the potatoes can be mashed in advance, then chilled overnight in the ramekins. Serve with plenty of buttered toast.

This pizza's topping is inspired by the traditional Swedish casserole known as Jansson's Temptation. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Buttermilk makes the cake tender, and cream cheese adds great texture to the frosting.

These pastries are best when freshly baked, so if you plan on giving them to someone who may not be able to serve them within a day or two, you should deliver them frozen, along with the baking instructions.

This is a terrific make-ahead appetizer. The steak must be coated with the spice rub and chilled overnight before grilling, then the empanadas can be assembled completely one day before baking.

Pumpkin and apricot are a winning combination in this cake; it's topped with a spiced cream cheese frosting. For decoration, place several dried apricots between sheets of plastic wrap, and using a rolling pin, roll to flatten. With scissors, cut out leaf shapes from the apricots, and arrange them on top of the cake.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

These cheese straws may be assembled and frozen ahead of time and then baked at the last minute, as described in the procedure. Alternatively, they can be put together and baked the day before serving and kept in an airtight container, though they will not be as crisp as just-baked cheese straws. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Low-fat milk is the base for the cream sauce in this homey main course.