NPR's Scott Simon talks with Mark Kurlansky about his new novel, "Cheesecake." It's a story of New York's restaurant and real estate scenes in the 1980s and, of course, that delectable dessert.

Some desserts are classics for a reason, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement, as proven by the top tricks of these celebrity chefs.

From icebox pies to bars to big-batch desserts, these graham cracker deserts are inherently Southern and instantly crowd-pleasing.