Pastry Party

Nothing makes the mouth water like fresh-baked pastries -- even the most simple draws longing from observers with a sweet tooth. Fans of Rosemary & Thyme remember the tantalizing raspberry pastries featured in "They Understood Me in Paris" -- but for me, the thought of a simple buttery crust with almond slices and a sweet glaze is more than enough at the moment.

A simple pastry dough will let you make all sorts of sweet treats, perfect for putting together a platter for a breakfast party. Martha Stewart features several tempting recipes, including a few for simple pastry doughs -- in comparison to the sometimes-complicated grand, buttery folds of delicate French recipes.

It's hard to choose a favorite, but in a word: cream cheese strawberry bear claws. Unbeatably good when you're craving the sweetest and semi-elaborate of the pastry world.