11 Holiday Desserts: It's Not Just About Gingerbread Anymore

Don't be afraid to try something new this holiday season! You love to cook: now prove it.

Sometimes the holiday season is filled with nothing but green and red-iced sugar cookies. Holiday parties can slip into the mundane doldrums of uninspired gingerbread and peppermint concoctions.

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But, please, let your holiday be so much more than that.

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Show off your skill and technique. Combine new, exciting, alternative flavors instead of resting entirely on expectation.

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Don't be afraid to try something new this holiday season!

Here is a list of 11 dessert recipes that will liven up your December.

Naan Kithai

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Indian shortbread cookies with cinnamon, confectioners sugar, and cardamom sprinkled on top.

Gateau de Galette

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A comforting combination of buttercream, coffee, chocolate, and rum.

Riesling-Poached Pears with Pear Granite

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Strong floral notes from the pears and the Riesling blend nicely with the natural flavor of honey and the fragrance of lemon.

Vanilla & Rum Pots du Creme

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Creamy and soft custard dessert with a subtle punch of dark rum.

Chocolate Mousse

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The deep, dark flavor and texture of bittersweet chocolate is lightened with whipped cream.

Olive Oil Orange Cake

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A simple moist cake enhanced with the natural sweetness of orange juice, orange zest, and olive oil.

Roasted Banana-Black Sesame Tulip Sundaes

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The sweet, deep flavor of roasted banana is balanced by the boldness of black sesame.

Raspberry Clafoutis

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Almond and vanilla balance with the natural flavors and acidity of the baked raspberries.

Chocolate Tart

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Rich chocolate custard filling, flavored with coffee, contrasts with a crisp, buttery crust.

Lemon Olive Oil Cake with Drunken Apricot

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This recipe creates a dense, moist cake with a savory quality from olive oil and honey, enhanced by the flavor of almond and cognac-soaked apricots.

Orange Tuiles, Sorbet, and "Salad"

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The buttery almond taste of the tuiles balances the acidity and sweetness of the sorbet and fresh orange segments.

For more delicious recipes, check out Alta Editions' online cookbook series!

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