Half-Baked Puzzles

 Hi friends, Hope you're doing well. If you didn't see it on Daily Crossword Links , I recently wrote an essay about crosswords entitled " On Trust ." I hope you'll give it a read if you're interested in constructing puzzles, or just in learning about the constructor's mindset.  In the essay, I talk a bit about what I think goes into making difficult puzzles that are still satisfying to solve. Though my 🧩  generally tend towards the easier side, this one's an attempt to make a puzzle that's a firm challenge throughout while still being fun and fair. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it! Many thanks to Norah and Steve for helping to test this one. .puz PDF   Solution   Mmm, flourless chocolate “wave” cake

 Hi friends! Here today with an easy themed puzzle for you. I think this should play a bit more straightforward than usual, so put your speed-solving caps on and get to it!   No promises, but we might shake things up next time with a harder-than-usual themeless. In any event, thanks to Kelsey and joshsolves for helping to test this one.   .puz PDF Solution       Mmm, pine nut tart with walnuts and rosemary

 Hi friends, Themeless this week, playing around with a grid skeleton that allows for a lot of spanners. I think you'll enjoy this one! Many thanks to Quiara and Norah for helping to test this one.    .puz PDF   Solution Mmm, chocolate truffles