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Sink a sweet tooth into ski country’s most indulgent desserts.
Stuart’s Heart of Darkness Cupcakes: Collins Grill, Alta, Utah
There’s only one thing better than chocolate: Not having to leave the slopes to get it. Named for an Alta regular, Stuart’s Heart of Darkness Cupcakes-individual dark-chocolate soufflés with molten-chocolate Grenache centers presented on pools of crème anglaise-transform a children’s dessert into a sinful treat at this midmountain restaurant. 801-799-2297; alta.com
Chocolate Footsies: On-slope picnic, Heavenly, Calif.
Finally, ski boots that give something back: These chocolate “boots” are filled with chocolate mousse and strawberries and drizzled with Grand Marnier. Served at 9,000 feet overlooking Lake Tahoe, they top off an elaborate four-course, on-mountain picnic offered by the resort. At a hidden spot away from the ski runs, you’ll gather around a snow table decked with fine linens and china while your personal waiter pours the sparkling wine and cues the music. 530-542-5153; skiheavenly.com
Pumpkin Crème Brà»lée: Inn at Snakedance, Taos, N.M.
Classic crème brà»lée becomes a real treat when blended with savory pumpkin at this restaurant at the base of the lifts. The crème brà»lée (also served in vanilla, chocolate and raspberry renditions) provides a smooth finish to zesty entrees such as Yucatan-spiced dumplings and blackened chimayo-covered ahi. 800-322-9815; innsnakedance.com
Dark-Chocolate Napoleon: The Doveberry Inn, Mount Snow, Vt.
This complex Napoleon conquers all: Dark-chocolate disks are layered with sweetened mascarpone cheese, then surrounded by balsamic vinegar-coated strawberries and doused in chocolate sauce. A perfect chocolate-dipped berry on top seals the deal. 802-464-5652; doveberryinn.com
FEBRUARY 2005