WHY Heavenly American desserts, from the ubiquitous cupcake (they’re good) to more interesting things, like an astonishing cinnamon cake studded with Red Hots, the Reverse Chocolate Chip Cookie and the rich seven-layer bars topped with coconut.

WHAT Lisa Ritter has become a demi-goddess in Studio City for her wonderful desserts, from apple-pie bars to cheesecakes. The brownies and seven-layer bars are great to take to a party, and the friendly, family-oriented shop has good foodie gifts, too.

WHO Studio foodies and after-school moms and kids.