Port reduces to an intensely fruity, syrupy glaze for the pork loin. You can also omit the port and stir 2 tablespoons unsalted chicken stock into the cherry preserves. Fresh sage or rosemary would work in place of the thyme.
Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs) make a terrific party snack. These meatballs have a sweet glaze of mirin, soy, and ginger. Look for flat skewers at Asian markets, or use two skewers for each group of meatballs so they'll turn easier.
Chocolate cake layers made with cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, coffee and chocolate chunks, then spread with a coffee-flavored filling, stacked and drizzled with a chocolate glaze.