James Satterwhite, executive pastry chef at the Buckhead Ritz-Carlton, and his staff are whipping up some serious sweet treats for Mom this Sunday: 100 different desserts.

He's an expert in French pastry technique who has worked at four Ritz locations, yet his earliest memories of cooking are simple ones, dating back to his family's farm in North Carolina. Some of the desserts on Sunday's brunch menu, like strawberry shortcake (No. 62) or chocolate ice box cake (No. 53), reflect that proud Southern heritage. We recently chatted with Satterwhite about his craft.

Q: What were your mom's secret recipes?

A: With the chocolate ice box cake, I was just talking with my mom about this yesterday. I don't know what she made it with, probably Duncan Hines cake mix. I thought about that cake, the flavors in it. I use a graham cracker crust, giving it a slightly salty taste, and chocolate cream, and white chocolate mousse on top. That was a tribute to my mom.

Q: Mother's Day must be a great day for you.

A: It's a very special day. My mother won't be here on Mother's Day, but I'm moving her down here. She'll be here June 5.

Q: How did you become interested in food and cooking?

A: There's been a farm in our family for 200 years. In the morning, we were out picking stuff. At night, we would sit around and shell beans. We always had access to fresh ingredients. My mother and my grandmother inspired me to become a chef. I always associated the fact that I would see my mom and grandmother make our family happy through cooking.

Q: It sounds like cooking was a simple pleasure in your family.

A: I think sometimes chefs overthink things. I'm all about executing what we do flawlessly. But a chocolate chip cookie —- there's nothing better than a chocolate chip cookie, served fresh, served warm. You don't need to do another thing to it.

Q: Have you ever made a dessert with Cheerwine (a cherry flavored soft drink made by the Carolina Beverage Corporation in Salisbury)?

A: I have not.

Q: Can you call me if you do? I'm from North Carolina, too.

A: I'll consider it!

MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH

Buckhead Ritz-Carlton

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. $82 for adults, $41 for children 6-12. Info: 404-240-7035.