Marsala-soused peaches

This sophisticated, simple and foolproof dessert will impress your dinner party guests. By Silvana Franco

Pine nut & honey tart

This make-ahead tart is the ultimate finale for a festive buffet – just make sure you have enough as guests may well want seconds

White choc & cardamom mousses

These sophisticated mousses are a breeze to make and a great dinner party dessert

Southern fried chicken

Great for feeding a crowd, simply kick back, enjoy and relax this fried chicken recipe with homemade slaw

Pears roasted in red wine

A no-fuss, low-fat dessert – no need to peel the pears, just pop them in the oven and wait for the delicious sauce to form

Chocolate fondant

A gooey prepare-ahead dessert that's perfect for entertaining – it's all a matter of timing…

Pimm’s iced tea

Mixing this summer favourite with ice-cold mint & citrus tea makes a less sweet but every bit as refreshing cooler

Yogurt parfaits with crushed strawberries & amaretti

Get the taste of summer with this sophisticated dessert that is low fat and easy to make

Lime possets with raspberries

You only need four ingredients for this refreshing summer dessert, plus it can be made a day ahead

Butternut, maple & pecan lattice pie

Spiced and glowing gold, this pie is pure autumn on a plate. Use butternut squash or your Halloween pumpkin

Lychee & ginger sorbet

This refreshing make-ahead dessert is a cooling way to finish off a Chinese-themed dinner party

From-the-freezer mince pies

Keep these festive favourites nice and simple or spice things up with some imaginative twists