Ah, Labor Day. That bittersweet moment of conflict between a blissfully long weekend and the end of lazy days, white jeans and vacation. Savor the final lazy days of backyard barbecues with these Mini Burger Cupcakes. The first trick to authentic-looking sliders is a golden cupcake muffin topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, to resemble the soft bun. The meat patty can be made with chocolate icing, or if you're feeling adventurous, a pan of brownies cut into circles. Add shredded lettuce (green-tinted coconut flakes) and swirls of ketchup and mustard (red and yellow icing) for a well-dressed burger that you can make long after barbecue season is over.

Celebrate Labor Day and the final days of the season with more spectacular summer desserts from Cooking Channel:

• Key Lime Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Grilled Pineapple with Nutella
• Mint Chip Ice Cream
• Mango Strawberry Crumble