Red, White and Blue Layered Flag Cake I haven't made this cake, but I am going to attempt it! I'm giving it 5 stars just based on looks and kudos to whoever came up with this! I am curious to know why they only used egg whites on the red and white layers, though, anyone know?

Lemon Champagne Celebration Cupcakes I just made these tonight - they are delicious - but I was a little disappointed that the champagne didn't really add to it - you could sub 7-up, sprite, etc, and I think the carbonation in those would work better than champagne. That being said, there are a few tweaks needed, I think. The lemon curd/sour cream mixture needs to probably be double - I used a tsp on each cupcake, and I scraped a knife across the the tsp to make sure I wasn't using too much, also, I think it will give you a little extra to put between the cakes - also needed. The glaze was way too much and way too thick - I didn't have enough lemon juice, so added water a little at a time to get consistency that I wanted. This was the first time I had tried the foil lined pan, so you can lift cake out w/ease - I am SOLD on that - that was soooo easy, could not believe it! I used the flour non-stick spray, and I am now also a fan of that! So much easier than greasing and flouring the old fashioned way! I also had some left over prepped strawberries for shortcakes - and I added some of the juice on top of the cakes - oh my, did THAT add some beautiful color! Also, I have been looking for a way to incorporate lemon curd into a recipe, I love it, good stuff! And I think if I do this again, will make a simple layer cake, with the tweaks I added - it DOES taste very yummy, and the strawberry juice just adds to it!

Smoky Mac 'n Cheese I have tried a few from scratch mac & cheese dishes - all left me cold. Then I tried this recipe, and thought, well that's weird, doesn't start with the flour, butter, milk base that's common with so many others. So, at best, I thought this would be really soupy, but I've got to say, this is the best mac & cheese recipe I've found that's made from scratch! Was very tempted not to put in the tomatoes, but I did, and they were very well incorporated into the recipe; I also added diced ham to make it a meal, and my oh, so picky eater husband loved it! I don't like a lot of spice, so I only used 1/8 tsp of the red pepper, will use what the recipe calls for next time. Had no problem finding smoky cheddar at the deli counter where I shop, so that was not an issue at all. Best mac&cheese ever!

Pumpkin Dessert Squares Took these for our golf couples night - everyone raved about them. I think they are pretty bland, there's not enough of the pumpkin center to offset the crust/topping. One lady said they were too sweet - I disagree - they don't have a whole lot of sugar, which I did like. I was pleased with all the compliments on these, the whole pan was gone. If I make these again, I might double the pumpkin filling, I think that would taste better.