In these unique cookies, a sweet cream cheese dough is topped by a chewy, light pecan-date meringue. More

[Photograph: Nick Kindelsperger] Adapted from The Ethnic Paris Cookbook... More

These moist muffins are perfumed with orange and studded with plump dates. More

Salty, sweet, crunchy, moist, gooey—it's a challenge to pull away from this cake. More

These two dishes are exceptionally simple and come together quickly. Devils on horseback are salty and sweet but definitely on the rich side, while the cucumber sandwiches are crisp and refreshing. Strong black tea is ideal, but Black Velvets would be a good accompaniment as well. More

Think of these little pastries as drier, neater versions of baklava that you can hold in your hands without the services of a wet-nap. And since they call for puff pastry instead of phyllo dough, they come together in a fraction of the time without all the hassle of painting melted butter on tissue-thin sheets of pastry. More

Dates are one of the many dried fruits that are delicious in both sweet and savory foods, and are also nutritious and full of fiber. In these simple layered bars, a soft date mixture is sandwiched between a crumbly, cinnamon-flavored oat-based crust. These bars are not only great for a simple brunch, but would travel well to someone else's get together, or even the office, if you feel generous. More

A simple, seasonal, vegan-friendly treat devised by the good people at Whole Foods, No-Cook Berry Crisp is suitable for either breakfast or dessert. A dollop of yogurt will orient it more towards the morning, while a scoop of vanilla would make it nighttime-appropriate. More