Whether you're planning last-minute or just want to focus on a big-deal main course, these tarts, cakes, and fruit desserts deliver maximum impact with minimum fuss.

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Bourbon Chocolate Cake

This almost-flourless mousse-like cake really does melt in your mouth. It can be baked up to a day before serving and stored lightly wrapped at room temperature.

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Gingery Pumpkin Tart

Ground and crystallized ginger give the smooth filling a real kick in this easy twist on pumpkin pie.

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Bananas Foster

The pyrotechnics belies how simple this New Orleans classic really is: just sautéed bananas in a rum-infused caramel sauce.

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Gingerbread Pear Cobbler

Molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves add warm holiday cheer to this homey fruit cobbler.

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Red Wine Poached Pears with Pistachios

The red and green colors in this easy fruit dessert make it a particularly festive addition to the holiday table.

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Lime Ricotta Tart in a Gingersnap Crust

A lighter version of cheesecake, this tart is adorned with a citrus zip from fresh lime juice and zest.

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Chocolate Truffle Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Topping

A crunchy press-in cookie crust contrasts with the smooth ganache filling. Mascarpone lends a sophisticated twist to the whipped-cream topping.

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Apple Galette with Ginger Glaze

The most complicated part of this recipe is arranging the apple slices on top. The crust is made with frozen puff pastry, and the golden glaze is based on melted apricot jam.

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Bittersweet Chocolate Pots de Crème

This silky, deep chocolate custard comes together in less than 15 minutes, then can set up in the fridge while you tend to the rest of the meal.

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