Citrus

Fruit simmered in cinnamon syrup is a typical after-dinner treat throughout Mexico.

The cake pans, cardboard rounds, and dowels are available at cake and candy supply stores; or call Jane's Cakes and Chocolates at 800-262-7630.

Don't let the unexciting name of the recipe fool you—this ice cream is unusually good. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 4 hr

Begin making the lime-ginger curd one day before baking the cake. The assembled dessert can be chilled overnight before serving.

Serve with: Steamed carrots and scalloped potatoes. Dessert: A bakery strawberry tart.

You'll want to get this started a day ahead.

A charcoal grill will give the best flavor.

The fruit juices blend with the sugar, spices, and orange-flower water to create a lovely syrup. What to drink: Orange Muscat wines (such as Essencia) would be perfect with this.

All the wonderful flavors and textures of summer berry pie à la mode in an ice cream sundae. For a casual party, offer the individual components buffet style and let guests make their own.

The popular rum-and-mint cocktail from Cuba was the inspiration for this entrée. A last-minute spritz of grilled lime adds even more flavor. Garnish with grilled pineapple slices cut into star shapes, if desired.