Contributed by Info Guru Terri Wallace

Of course we enjoy sweets year round.

Some desserts, though, have a seasonal appeal. Ice cream goes with summer. Pumpkin pie belongs in the fall. Here is our list of the top ten autumn desserts:

10. Zucchini Bread

Rest assured that even self-proclaimed haters of zucchini have sung the praises of zucchini bread. There is something almost magic about how moist the pureed zucchini makes the bread. The rich spices add a hearty depth to the bread, with the cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves calling to mind the fact that the holidays that are fast approaching. Paired with fresh whipped cream and a cup of hot tea, this may well be the perfect after dinner treat.

9. Molasses Ginger Cookies

Ordinary cookies simply can’t live up to the challenge of satisfying your seasonal sweet tooth, but then these are no ordinary cookie. These tender Molasses Ginger Cookies boast an earthy spiciness that will make them an annual tradition. The cookies are firm yet tender, making them a perfect cookie to pack in a lunchbox or in a holiday care package.

8. Praline Bundt Cake

When you need a rich slice of decadence without the hassle, consider a prebaked Praline Bundt Cake to impress your guests. Placed on your crystal cake platter, with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a mug of rich coffee, no one has to know that it isn’t home made.

7. Guinness Gingerbread

Nothing heralds the coming of crisp winds like a slice of warm gingerbread. But this is not your standard gingerbread…this is Guinness Gingerbread! The deep, earthiness of the Guinness adds a heartiness to the traditional dessert. Served hot with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, gingerbread quickly becomes the stuff of legends.

6. Pfeffernuesse

Pfeffernuesse is a traditional German Pepper Nut Cookie that is spicy and decadent. Rolled in powdered sugar, the cookies resemble tiny snowballs and are a festive addition to any cookie tray. The spices meld to create a tender cookie that tastes even better the second day … if there are any left.

5. Plum Pudding

Plum Pudding is a traditional recipe that heralds the beginning of the holidays. As autumn’s hold grows stronger and winter winds approach, it is time to stir up a plum pudding. As you present the flaming pudding to your awe-struck guest, you can sense the magic of the holidays approaching.

4. Bourbon Pecan Tart

Autumn winds urge the ripe pecans from the trees; the pecans hide under the fallen leaves, waiting to be gathered. One bite of this bourbon pecan tart, and you will be wrestling the squirrels to get every last pecan. Plan on stashing away a pile of pecans, because this is one recipe that you will want to make over and over.

3. Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie is the overlooked cousin of pumpkin pie – but this recipe will make you think twice about which pie should be the autumn standard. Rich and creamy sweet potato spiced with cinnamon, and with just a hint of maple, this pie boasts all of the traditional flavors of autumn.

2. Apple Ginger Pie with Cider Bourbon Sauce

If you are lucky enough to visit an orchard and pick your own apples this fall, make sure to pick plenty. One taste of this apple pie will bring you back for more. This would be perfect paired with hard cider after a hard day of raking leaves.

1. Pumpkin Gingerbread Trifle

Pumpkin Gingerbread Trifle may well be the end-all be-all of autumn desserts. It looks elegant and impressive, but it is deceptively simple to make. Repeating layers of gingerbread, pudding, and whipped cream create a memorable end to any meal. It is perfect to make the day before; the flavors meld as the dessert sits adding a richness of taste. Sprinkle with crushed ginger snaps, or crystallized ginger before serving and then await the compliments.