Bite-sized sausage and cheese balls made with biscuit mix, spicy sausage, and two types of Cheddar. A quick and crowd-pleasing appetizer with a kick of hot sauce.

Layers of homemade pound cake, strawberries simmered in preserves, and cream cheese whipped cream stacked in a trifle bowl for a stunning layered dessert. A beautiful, show-stopping presentation that transforms a classic strawberry shortcake into a queenly grand finale.

Hot dog halves are skewered on sticks, dipped in a cornmeal-buttermilk batter, and deep-fried at 375 degrees until golden and crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. These bite-sized carnival classics are an irresistible, fun-to-eat treat that kids and adults alike will devour by the handful.

Recipe courtesy of Valerie Bertinelli Light rum, Jamaican rum, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, orange juice, and orgeat syrup are stirred together in a large pitcher and served over crushed ice with a splash of grenadine. This batch-style Mai Tai brings the spirit of a Hawaiian luau to any backyard party, delivering tropical sweetness and rum punch flavor without tending bar all night.

Two layers of homemade bread dough spread with chocolate hazelnut filling, chocolate chips, and chopped hazelnuts, cut into rectangles and stacked in a loaf pan. A gooey, indulgent pull-apart bread that makes sharing irresistible and every bite decadent.

Layers of creamy yogurt, mixed fresh berries, and a homemade fig compote brightened with vinegar and orange are stacked in jars and topped with crunchy trail mix. These portable, make-ahead parfaits offer a balanced, satisfying breakfast that's ready to grab from the fridge on a busy morning.

Whole chicken legs grilled low and slow with a homemade barbecue sauce spiked with molasses, chipotles, and warm spices. An affordable, finger-licking main course that delivers big smoky flavor on a small budget.

Homemade rosemary dough topped with roasted butternut squash, mozzarella, and goat cheese, finished with a bright arugula-lemon salad. A seasonal pizza that balances sweet roasted squash with peppery greens for a sophisticated autumn dinner.

A sparkling cocktail made with prosecco and creme de cassis, garnished with fresh raspberries. An elegant and effortless aperitif perfect for holiday entertaining.

A whole turkey deep-fried to golden, crispy perfection with incredibly juicy meat inside. The showstopping centerpiece of Valerie's Thanksgiving table.