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    Home » Recipes

    Fruit Board

    Fruit Board

    July 9, 2022

    fruit board with crackers and dip

    Fruit Board: A great way to serve your favorite fruits at your next party! Make the fruit platter as shown or use your favorite fruits and crackers.

    Quick Overview: Below is a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a fruit charcuterie board with your favorite fruits and your favorite board!

    fruit board on white platter

    Why you’d want to make a fruit board

    A fruit board is an easy way to serve hungry kids, to serve as a perfect appetizer for a large crowd for your next party, special occasions, or for something like baby showers, or just a fun way to eat your favorite fruits. It’s also a great idea when you need something quick and easy, especially when you serve it with this 3-ingredient fruit dip with marshmallow cream or this Cool Whip Fruit Dip!

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    Ingredients

    What’s fun about this fruit platter, is that you can put whatever items that want to put on it!

    Since we pair it so often with fruit dip, fruit is usually the main focus but we also love serving it with other items, such as crackers, cookies, and more!

    Fruit and crackers in small bowls on counter
    Ingredients

    Here are some ideas of our favorite items to include:

    • Strawberries
    • Blueberries
    • Kiwi
    • Green Apples
    • Cantaloupe
    • Pineapple
    • Ritz Crackers
    • Toll House Crackers
    • Vanilla Wafers

    Instructions

    You can arrange your fruit board any way you like, especially if your board or platter is a different shape than the one seen here.

    However if you want to make it just like this one, here’s how it’s styled:

    1. Place the bowl in the middle where the widest section is. This can be the star of the show. Fill it with your favorite fruit dip – ours being this marshmallow dip!
    2. Place the three crackers on the opposite sides of each other. One in the middle on top and the bottom across from each other. 
    bowl of dip in white platter
    Place a dip in center
    crackers added to white platter
    Add crackers
    1. Place strawberries, apples, and blueberries next to crackers. Make sure you leave enough space for the rest of the fruits. 
    2. Then fill in the rest of the empty spaces with kiwi, cantaloupe, and pineapple.
    fruit added to white board
    Add fruit

    Substitutions

    Feel free to substitute your favorite fruits and or crackers to create beautiful boards. This is simply a tutorial to give you an idea of how you can style a fruit tray at home!

    If you don’t want a totally fresh fruit charcuterie board, you can even use things like dried fruits as well, for a simple fruit charcuterie board.

    Variations

    If you really would like to balance all that sweetness out, you can definitely add either salami and/or pepperoni as well for meats. Or, make a cheese board with the fruit and assemble a variety of cheeses like soft cheese (like goat cheese), hard cheese, or your favorites to make a fruit and cheese board!

    For me, I do love the variety that a cheese platter with fruits and meats, provides too. Or even adding a little dark chocolate with the variety of fruits is a great contrast.

    close up of blueberries, crackers and dip
    Left side
    close up of vanilla wafers, kiwi, strawberries
    Right side

    Platters

    You can use any large serving trays, platters, or boards that you choose! (Really, just about any large serving trays that you may have on hand, would probably be a good choice.)

    If you’d prefer a platter like the one that we used here, you can use this similar oval platter! Then, using something like these white ramekins, are such a great way to serve dips!

    We even love using a good charcuterie board, such as this charcuterie board that comes with the cutest pullout drawer for utensils! Perfect for a dinner party when serving guests an appetizer or a dessert charcuterie board, and you want it to look extra special!

    But using any round boards, rectangular boards, etc. is perfectly fine too!

    Storage

    If you have leftover items on your fruit board, store any fruit in an airtight container. If you have leftover crackers, you can place those back in the original packaging or in plastic ziptop bags. It’s best not to store the items together, as the juices from the fruit could leak to the crackers and make them soggy.

    Pro tip

    When serving, it’s a good idea to try and get the best fruit of the season for ripe fruit and juicy fruit! However, if it’s a time of year when your favorite fruits may not be the best and may have a bit of a “sour” to them… the marshmallow fruit dip recipe that we recommend can help offset the taste if seasonal fruits aren’t available near you or at your grocery stores.

    Also, boards come in all different sizes and a variety of shapes, so the amount of fruit/crackers that you need, will depend on the size of the board that you’ll use.

    Related Ideas

    If you loved the idea of this fruit board, then you may also love this tutorial on how to make a cheese board and this beautiful breakfast charcuterie board!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    fruit board with crackers and dip
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    How to Make a Fruit Board

    Fruit Board: A great way to serve your favorite fruits at your next party! Make the fruit platter as shown or use your favorite fruits and crackers.
    Course Appetizer, Breakfast, Dessert, Side Dish, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Diet Vegan
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes minutes
    Servings 10 people
    Calories 44kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    Fruit

    • strawberries
    • blueberries
    • kiwi
    • green apples
    • cantaloupe
    • pineapple

    Crackers

    • round butter crackers Such as Ritz
    • tollhouse crackers
    • vanilla wafers

    Fruit Dip

    • We love the fruit dip with marshmallow fluff recipe in the instructions below!

    Instructions

    • Place the bowl in the middle where the widest section is. Fill it with your favorite fruit dip recipe!
    • Place the three crackers on the opposite sides of each other. One in the middle on top and the bottom across from each other. 
    • Place strawberries, apples, and blueberries next to crackers. Make sure you leave enough space for the rest of the fruits. 
    • Then fill in the rest of the empty spaces with kiwi, cantaloupe, and pineapple.

    Notes

    See blog post above for other ideas and items to assemble on your fruit platter!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 44kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 125mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 583IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 0.3mg

    No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

    July 8, 2022

    A stack of no bake chocolate peanut butter bars.

    No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: If you’re craving a chocolate peanut butter dessert and want something quick and easy – these no bake chocolate peanut butter bars are it! This no bake dessert uses simple ingredients and is a quick and easy recipe to make.

    A stack of no bake chocolate peanut butter bars.

    This recipe is one of my go-to desserts for a potluck, especially when you need something dependable.

    Recipe Notes

    I absolutely adore Reese’s peanut butter cups! Peanut butter and chocolate are the best combination in my opinion (my fellow peanut butter lovers know what I’m talking about). Sometimes I get a craving for them but it’s not convenient to run out and get one, and that’s where this recipe comes in.

    If you’re looking for something to satisfy that peanut butter and chocolate craving, this chocolate peanut butter bars recipe will absolutely do the trick. It’s made with simple ingredients that you can keep on hand, so you can make it in a pinch! Trust me, the hardest part of this recipe is not eating it all by yourself.

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    Ingredients

    These easy peanut butter bars are comfort food, pure and simple. They are made with simple ingredients that I bet you already have on hand, much like the peanut butter fudge with sweetened condensed milk that we love to make!)

    The ingredients for no bake chocolate peanut butter bars with labels on them.
    Ingredients
    • 1 cup salted butter
    • 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 ¼ cups peanut butter, divided
    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 1 cup graham crackers, crushed
    • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

    See the printable recipe card below for quantities and step-by-step instructions.

    Instructions

    1. In a small saucepan, combine the butter, vanilla, and 1 cup peanut butter on medium-low heat until the butter is completely melted, and the mixture is homogenous.
    Peanut butter, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan.
    Melt butter, peanut butter, and vanilla in saucepan.
    1. Remove the pot from the heat and gently whisk the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs into the peanut butter mixture.

    Note: To crush your graham crackers, you can use a food processor or simply place them in a ziplock bag and roll over them with a rolling pin until they are more crumb than cookie.

    Graham crumbs and powdered sugar added into the saucepan.
    Whisk in graham crumbs & powdered sugar.
    1. Pour the mixture into an 8×8 baking dish and melt the chocolate chips with the remaining peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave.
    Chocolate chips and peanut butter in a microwave safe bowl.
    Melt chocolate & peanut butter.
    1. Pour the chocolate layer on top of the peanut butter layer and place the dish in the fridge for 2 hours.
    An 8x8 square pan with chocolate peanut butter bars in it.
    Pour chocolate over first layer & chill.
    1. Cut the bars into squares, serve, and enjoy! Enjoy your chocolate peanut butter slice with a glass of cold milk or hot coffee – either way, it’ll be delicious!
    A chocolate peanut butter square on a spatula being held above the 8x8 pan of squares.
    Cut into squares & enjoy!

    Substitutions

    If you need to make a few changes to these no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars, here are my suggestions!

    • Peanut Butter – you can use either creamy peanut butter or crunchy peanut butter in this recipe. I like to use smooth peanut butter, but using crunchy doesn’t have a major effect on the outcome of this recipe. I would not recommend using natural peanut butter for this recipe, though, as it does result in a different texture (natural PB is much softer).
    • Chocolate Chips – you can switch out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate depending on how much sweetness you want to add to the recipe.
    • Vegan – if you want to make this sweet treat vegan friendly, simply use your favorite vegan butter alternative and be sure to select a brand of semi-sweet chocolate chips that are vegan certified.
    • Gluten Free – all you’ll need to do to make this recipe gluten free is to swap the graham crackers for a gluten free graham cracker or graham crumbs!
    • Graham Crackers – instead of graham crackers (crushed), you could choose to use digestive biscuits. These will result in a similar flavor and texture.

    Variations

    This old fashioned peanut butter bars recipe is a fantastic base to play around with! You can add so many fun things to turn this into your own unique creation.

    • Festive – add sprinkles and candies to the top of your bars that match the holiday (red and green for Christmas, pink for Valentine’s Day, green clover sprinkles for St. Patrick’s Day…).
    • Chopped Nuts – sprinkle some chopped peanuts or your favourite nut onto the top of the bars before the chocolate sets for a pretty and delicious garnish!
    • Make it Oreo – instead of crushed graham crackers, use Oreo crumbs or crushed Oreo cookies!
    • Extra Peanut Butter – if you are a super peanut butter lover, you can replace the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for no-bake peanut butter bars!

    Storage

    These chocolate peanut butter squares will last for 4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

    You can also freeze these! You can individually wrap the bars in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer safe container or simply place the bars right into a freezer safe container. They should keep for a month or more this way.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Can I make these look more like a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup?

    Yes! If you want these to look more like Reese Peanut Butter cups, you can make them in a muffin cup. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. Pour your peanut butter & graham cracker mixture evenly into the 12 muffin cups. Pour your melted chocolate and peanut butter into the 12 muffin cups; chill your entire muffin tray for 2 hours. Enjoy!

    Should I serve these room temperature or chilled?

    These bars are great served chilled or at room temperature. They are a little softer at room temperature, making them easier to eat with a fork. When you serve them chilled, they are more of a finger food.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Related Recipes

    Looking for other easy, no bake desserts? Try our no bake cherry cheesecake (this one is a huge hit anytime I make it) and these classic no bake cookies (maybe you called them haystacks as a kid?). Or if peanut butter is your favorite, this peanut butter sheet cake recipe with peanut butter icing is full of flavor.

    Recipe

    A stack of no bake chocolate peanut butter bars.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

    No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: If you're craving a chocolate peanut butter dessert and want something quick and easy – these no bake chocolate peanut butter bars are it! This no bake dessert uses simple ingredients and is a quick and easy recipe to make. 
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Chill Time 2 hours hours
    Total Time 2 hours hours 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 9 servings
    Calories 881kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup salted butter
    • 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 ¼ cups peanut butter divided
    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 1 cup graham crackers crushed
    • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

    Instructions

    • In a small saucepan, combine the butter, vanilla, and 1 cup of the peanut butter on medium-low heat until the butter is completely melted, and the mixture is homogenous.
    • Remove the pot from the heat and gently whisk in the powdered sugar and crushed graham crackers.
    • Pour the mixture into an 8×8 baking dish and melt the chocolate chips with the remaining peanut butter in the microwave.
    • Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and place the dish in the fridge for 2 hours.
    • Cut the bars into squares, serve, and enjoy!

    Notes

    STORAGE: These bars will last for 4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. 
    You can also freeze these! You can individually wrap the bars in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer safe container or simply place the bars right into a freezer safe container. They should keep for a month or more this way. 
     
    NOTE: To crush your graham crackers, you can use a food processor or simply place them in a ziplock bag and roll over them with a rolling pin until they are more crumb than cookie.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 881kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 63g | Saturated Fat: 27g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 22g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 478mg | Potassium: 471mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 53g | Vitamin A: 650IU | Calcium: 58mg | Iron: 4mg

    Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff

    July 2, 2022

    Fruit dip with marshmallow fluff in a white bowl

    Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff: An easy fruit dip recipe that’s perfect for fruit platters for dipping your favorite fruit or even graham crackers in!

    Quick Overview: Only 3 simple ingredients, a total time of only 10 minutes to prep, and then serve!

    Fruit dip with marshmallow fluff in a white bowl

    Why you’ll love this fruit dip

    This marshmallow fluff fruit dip only uses THREE ingredients, and it’s a no bake recipe that only takes 10 minutes! How could you not love that kind of “cooking” in the kitchen? However, if you’re looking for two dips to make, this Cool Whip Fruit Dip recipe uses similar ingredients but it adds a touch of strawberry flavor.

    You’ll absolutely love serving this fluffy marshmallow cream cheese fruit dip on a fruit tray or fruit board, with your favorite type of fruit! It is the best fruit dip for that!

    When we shared this oreo dip, booty dip, and banana pudding dip, I just knew you’d also love this creamy dip because they’re all some of the best dips (dessert-wise) in my opinion!

    It’s a wonderful dip to serve at your next party, such as birthday parties, baby showers, or a holiday meal. It’s also wonderful to make for a special treat or a great snack if you’re looking for easy after school snacks!

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    Ingredients

    A 3 ingredient fruit dip! That’s all it takes! Plus, they’re ingredients that you probably already have on hand (or could easily get at any grocery store) and could keep on hand for those last minute desserts or snacks!

    • 6 Tablespoons of marshmallow fluff
    • 1 8 ounce package of softened cream cheese
    • 6 Tablespoons of powdered sugar

    See the full, printable, recipe card below for ingredients and instructions, all in one place!

    ingredients on counter for fruit dip
    Ingredients

    Instructions

    1. Grab a large bowl, or at least one that’s big enough for the 3 ingredients, that gives you room to mix with a hand mixer.
    2. Place all three items in to mixing bowl, and mix together until evenly combined.
    ingredients in bowl for fruit dip
    All ingredients in bowl
    ingredients mixed together in bowl
    Mixed ingredients
    1. If desired, pour in to a serving dish and serve right away at room temperature, or chill in the refrigerator for later!
    fruit dip in white bowl
    Enjoy or chill!

    For fun, if entertaining, you can place a few pieces of fresh fruit on top, to give it some pizzaz!

    Berries on top of fruit dip in bowl
    Top with berries for fun!

    What fruit is good for dipping?

    Feel free to dip any of your favorite fresh fruits in this! Some of our favorite fruits to dip in this easy fruit dip recipe, are:

    • strawberries
    • apple slices (red apples or green apples)
    • blueberries
    • pineapple
    • cantaloupe
    • honeydew
    • grapes
    • kiwi
    • peaches
    • papaya
    • mangoes
    Strawberry dipping in to fruit dip
    Enjoy your dip!

    Crackers for dipping

    Even though it’s called a “fruit dip” this dip is absolutely lovely with other items, especially crackers. Here are some of our favorites:

    • graham crackers
    • Ritz crackers
    • animal crackers
    • Teddy Grahams
    • vanilla wafers
    Cracker dipped in fruit dip
    Can also dip crackers!

    Other items for dipping:

    We also love dipping items such as:

    • cookies
    • pound cake
    • pretzels
    fruit and cracker with dip on plate
    Marshmallow Fruit Dip

    Variations and Substitutions

    If you’d love to mix things up or are missing an ingredient and need to replace it with something else, here are some ideas that can help:

    • vanilla extract
    • lemon juice
    • Cool Whip
    • orange juice concentrate
    • chocolate chips
    • peanut butter

    Storage

    If you have leftover fruit tip, store in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

    Expert Tips

    Make this dip in advance to cut down on things you have to make for a party or to just make available as an easy grab-and-go snack!

    Serve this as an appetizer, dessert or a snack for after school!

    Related Recipes

    If you love fruity snacks and desserts as much as we do, then you’ll also love these cheesecake stuffed strawberries, creamy fruit salad, or even this pumpkin fluff dip!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    Fruit dip with marshmallow fluff in a white bowl
    Print Pin
    5 from 11 votes

    Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff

    Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff: An easy fruit dip recipe that's perfect for fruit platters for dipping your favorite fruit or even graham crackers in!
    Course Appetizer, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 213kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
    • 6 Tablespoons powdered sugar
    • 6 Tablespoons marshmallow fluff

    Instructions

    • In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, marshmallow fluff, and the powdered sugar with a hand mixer, on medium speed until it is fully mixed together.
    • Pour in to serving dish, if desired!
    • Serve right away or chill until ready for serving!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 213kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 146mg | Potassium: 55mg | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 508IU | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 0.1mg

    Tuna Pasta Salad

    June 30, 2022

    Tuna pasta salad in white bowl

    Tuna Pasta Salad: A creamy, easy recipe using simple, everyday ingredients like mayo, and a few spices, that can be made in only 20 minutes!

    A delicious side dish to serve for any weeknight main course or to even have for a quick, fulfilling lunch!

    Tuna pasta salad in white bowl

    If you love recipes like this one, then you’ll also love all of our easy delicious pasta salad recipes!

    What You’ll Love About This Pasta Salad

    Our shrimp macaroni salad has been visited by you all, SO many times, so I knew that since you loved it as much as I did, then you’d also love what we call the best tuna pasta salad recipe!

    • This creamy tuna pasta salad is the perfect side dish for a summer bbq or to simply have for an easy lunch or on a busy weeknight as a main course, too!
    • If you keep most of the ingredients on hand in the pantry (canned tuna, pasta, vinegar, spices, etc.) you sure won’t need much else, to whip this up in a flash!
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    10 simple ingredients are all it takes to make this dish! (Even less if you don’t want to use celery or green onion… as they’re optional but they add so much flavor and texture! So I HIGHLY recommend them.)

    ingredients on table for tuna pasta salad

    What you’ll need:

    • 5 ounce can of tuna fish, drained
    • 1 cup uncooked rotini
    • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 2 teaspoons plain vinegar
    • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon white sugar
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ¼ cup chopped green onions
    • ¼ cup chopped celery

    See the printable recipe card toward the end of this post for ingredients and instructions all in one place.

    Instructions

    1. Boil rotini in water, according to package directions. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Place in a large bowl (big enough for all ingredients, and room to stir), or in the bowl that you plan to serve the tuna pasta salad in. Set aside.
    Cooked rotini in white bowl
    Cooked Rotini
    1. In a small mixing bowl, add mayo and vinegar.
    mayo in white bowl
    Mix mayonnaise…
    vinegar pouring in to dish
    Add vinegar…
    1. Next, pour in garlic powder, sugar, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
    sugar and garlic powder pouring in to dish
    Add sugar & garlic powder
    black pepper and salt pouring in to dish
    Add salt & pepper
    1. Stir to combine mayo and vinegar mixture with spices.
    seasonings and mayo in white dish
    Seasonings and mayo
    seasonings mixed with mayo in dish
    Seasonings mixed
    1. Pour mayonnaise mixture over pasta.
    mayo mixture poured on top of pasta
    Pour mayo on pasta
    1. Add tuna, celery, and green onion.
    Add tuna on to pasta salad
    Add tuna
    celery and green onion added to tuna pasta
    Add green onion & celery
    1. Stir until fully combined and mixed together.
    Pasta mixed with mayo and vegetables
    Stir to combine

    Serve this cold tuna pasta salad right away or chill for later!

    tuna pasta salad in white serving bowl with red napkin underneath

    Substitutions

    If you find that you’re out of some of the items that this recipe calls for, it’s ok to switch some things up! Here are some things you can consider:

    • Canned tuna: I prefer the canned tuna that’s in water but you can use the tuna in oil if that’s what you have on hand.
    • Pasta: I love the texture of the rotini pasta for this salad but it’s absolutely ok to substitute an other type of pasta, such as elbow pasta, shell pasta, bowtie pasta, etc. I would just recommend a short, smaller pasta, over a longer pasta. You can also use a whole wheat pasta if you prefer.
    • Seasoned Salt: If you’re not a fan of this, you can use regular table salt if you prefer.
    • Vinegar: Don’t have white vinegar on hand? You may want to try a little lemon juice instead, to get that zing!
    • Mayo: I prefer mayo over Miracle Whip or greek yogurt but you can definitely experiment with these if that’s all that you have on hand.
    Tuna pasta salad on lettuce as a salad

    Variations

    Eating this tuna pasta salad just the way it is, is my favorite. However, a runner-up to eating it alone, is eating it on a bed of lettuce as a main dish! The crunch of the lettuce leaves with the softness of the pasta and tuna is absolutely incredible, and gives such delicious flavors!

    Love kicking things up a notch? Have fun with added flavors, such as hot sauce for a kick!

    Other ingredients you may want to consider adding in this easy tuna macaroni salad if you like to mix things up, are:

    • red onion
    • orange bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, green bell pepper or red bell peppers
    • other fresh herbs (such as fresh dill)
    • cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
    • lemon zest
    • fresh peas
    • english cucumber
    tuna pasta salad in white bowl

    Storage

    If you have leftover tuna pasta salad, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also cover the dish that it’s in, with plastic wrap to keep for later.

    Top Tip

    You can make this in advance if you’re planning on making it for an event or taking it to a potluck. Making it a day in advance or the morning of would be a good idea! Just stir the pasta salad right before serving!

    Related Recipes

    If you love these kinds of recipes, then you’ll also want to check out this tuna salad recipe, crab salad, and this zesty pasta salad!

    Or if you’re looking for a warmer dish that utilizes canned tuna, you’ll love this tuna casserole recipe.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    This tuna pasta salad is delicious served with my classic cheeseburger sliders for a simple, family-friendly dinner.

    Recipe

    Tuna pasta salad in white bowl
    Print Pin
    5 from 9 votes

    Tuna Pasta Salad

    Tuna Pasta Salad: An easy recipe using simple, everyday ingredients like mayo, and a few spices, that can be made in only 20 minutes!
    Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes minutes
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 190kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 5 ounces canned tuna in water (drained)
    • 1 cup uncooked rotini
    • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 2 teaspoons plain distilled vinegar
    • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon white granulated sugar
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ¼ cup chopped green onion
    • ¼ cup chopped celery

    Instructions

    • Boil rotini in water, according to package directions. Drain, and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Place in mixing bowl, or in the bowl that you plan to serve the tuna pasta salad in. Set aside.
    • In a small mixing bowl, add mayo and vinegar.
    • Next, pour in garlic powder, sugar, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
    • Stir to combine mayo and vinegar mixture with spices.
    • Pour mayonnaise mixture over pasta.
    • Add tuna, celery, and green onion.
    • Stir until fully combined and mixed together. Serve!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 190kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 369mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 87IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg

    Everything But The Bagel Dip

    June 28, 2022

    A bowl of everything but the bagel dip with vegetables and crackers around it.

    Everything But The Bagel Dip: This delicious dip uses simple ingredients to give you all the flavor of an everything bagel in convenient dip form. You only need 5 minutes and 4 simple ingredients, and the recipe only has 3 steps – it doesn’t get easier than that!

    It’s an easy appetizer recipe that you’ll want to keep the ingredients on hand for, for those last-minute cravings or entertaining needs!

    A bowl of everything but the bagel dip with vegetables and crackers around it.
    Everything But The Bagel Dip.

    Why You’ll Love This Everything But the Bagel Dip

    • If you like everything bagels, you’re going to love this dip! It has all the bagel flavors of an everything bagel with cream cheese, but you get to dip all of your favorite things in it! (I’d even make it and put it on a bagel bar if hosting, when I’m making this homemade bagels recipe!)
    • Whether you’re a veggies and dip kind of person, a crackers and dip person (or maybe even a dip a slice of cheese in dip kind of person…I won’t tell), this dip is sure to hit the spot. (Of course, alongside our other favorite savory dip, this easy blue cheese dip!)
    • It’s a great snack idea for summer! Super easy to make and nice and cool to serve at a bbq.
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    Ingredients

    You only need 4 simple ingredients to make this dip – that’s it, just 4 things you can find in your grocery store!

    The ingredients for everything but the bagel dip laid out on a counter with labels on the image.
    • 1 – 8 ounce cream cheese block, softened
    • ⅔ cup sour cream
    • 3 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel seasoning
    • chopped fresh scallions (for topping)

    See the printable recipe card below for exact ingredients and the entire recipe.

    Instructions

    1. In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, mix together the cream cheese and sour cream.
    Cream cheese and sour cream blended together in a mixing bowl.
    Mix cream cheese and sour cream.
    1. Fold in the everything but the bagel seasoning with a rubber spatula.
    Cream cheese and sour cream in a bowl with everything but the bagel seasoning on top.
    Fold in seasoning.
    1. Transfer to a serving bowl if you like, top with chopped scallions and serve chilled with your favorite crackers or veggies!
    Everything but the bagel dip in a bowl with chopped scallions on top.
    Add chopped scallions.

    What to Eat with Everything but the Bagel Dip

    The best thing about dip is that you can eat it with whatever you want! Here are a few of my favorite ideas for how to eat this everything but the bagel seasoning dip:

    • Spread it on a bagel – I know it sounds extra, but try spreading this everything but the bagel dip on your favorite toasted bagel! It’s delicious.
    • With veggies – If you have picky veggie eaters in your house, serve up a big plate of chopped fresh vegetables with this flavorful dip and watch it all disappear! This is a great way to get your kids to eat more veggies. Serve this dip with celery sticks, carrot sticks or baby carrots, julienned cucumbers, or whatever other veggies your family likes!
    • As a dipping sauce – Whether you’re making chicken wings or French fries, the tangy flavors of this dip make it a good choice as a dipping sauce.
    • On avocado toast – Spread this dip onto some whole grain toast and top it with sliced avocado and an egg if you like. This might become your favorite breakfast – it’s so good! See more avocado toast recipes here!

    If you want to serve this easy dip recipe as an appetizer, here are some of our favorite dippers to serve with it:

    • pita chips
    • tortilla chips
    • potato chips
    • fresh vegetables
    • pretzels
    • bagel chips (you can buy these at the grocery store!)

    Substitutions & Variations

    This everything bagel dip recipe is pretty great on its own, but if you need to make some changes I have a few suggestions for you!

    • Scallions – you can use chopped green onions instead of scallions.
    • Dairy Free – you can most likely find dairy free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives in your grocery store!
    • Higher Protein – if you want to up the protein in this recipe, you can replace the sour cream with plain greek yogurt!
    • Cream Cheese – you can use full-fat cream cheese or low-fat cream cheese, whatever suits your dietary needs. Personally, I like full-fat cream cheese because it’s very rich and creamy but low-fat cream cheese will work well, too.
    • Copycat Everything But The Bagel Seasoning – If you can’t find everything but the bagel seasoning, you can make your own! Combine 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dried minced onion, 2 teaspoons flaked sea salt or coarse salt. Once you’ve made up your everything bagel seasoning mix, use 3 tablespoons of it for this recipe!

    Storage

    Store your leftover everything bagel dip in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

    Freezing cream cheese can alter the texture a bit, so freezing isn’t recommended. If you don’t mind if the texture changes, you can definitely freeze this dip in a freezer safe, airtight container or bag for up to three months.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Can I make my own everything but the bagel seasoning?

    If you can’t find everything but the bagel seasoning, you can make your own bagel seasoning blend! Combine 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dried minced onion, 2 teaspoons flaked sea salt or coarse salt. Once you’ve made up your everything bagel seasoning mix, use 3 tablespoons of it for this recipe!

    Can I make this dip ahead of time?

    Yes! If you make this dip ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge the flavors will get a bit stronger, which will be delicious!

    Related Recipes

    Love dip recipes? Then you’re really going to love this easy elote dip, Reuben dip, and homemade cheese dip recipe! Or if you’re a fan of using beers in dip, this beer pretzel dip is easy to make and has amazing flavor!

    If you’re looking for more great options to serve on game day or at your next party, check out our loaded cream cheese dip! Cream cheese, jalapenos, ranch seasoning, cheese and bacon…need I say more? Or, keep the bagel theme going and whip up these easy pizza bagels!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    A bowl of everything but the bagel dip with vegetables and crackers around it.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Everything But The Bagel Dip

    Everything But The Bagel Dip: This delicious dip uses simple ingredients to give you all the flavor of an everything bagel in convenient dip form. You only need 5 minutes and 4 simple ingredients, and the recipe only has 3 steps – it doesn't get easier than that!
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 39kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 – 8 ounce cream cheese block softened
    • ⅔ cup sour cream
    • 3 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel seasoning
    • chopped fresh scallions for topping

    Instructions

    • In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, mix together the cream cheese and sour cream.
    • Fold in the everything but the bagel seasoning with a rubber spatula.
    • Transfer to a serving bowl if you like, top with chopped scallions and serve chilled with your favorite crackers or veggies!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store your leftover everything but the bagel dip in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
    Freezing cream cheese can alter the texture a bit, so freezing isn’t recommended. If you don’t mind if the texture changes, you can definitely freeze this dip in a freezer safe, airtight container or bag for up to three months. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 39kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 303mg | Potassium: 28mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 134IU | Vitamin C: 0.5mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 0.04mg

    Oreo Dip

    June 27, 2022

    A bowl of Oreo dip with an Oreo in it and crumbled Oreos on top.

    Oreo Dip: This dip is so quick and easy to make! All you need are 10 minutes and five simple ingredients to whip up this creamy, Oreo fluff dip (or Oreo cheesecake dip) that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

    It’s an easy no-bake dessert recipe that you’ll want to keep handy for those last-minute needs! (Just like our super popular Oreo Dessert and Oreo Mousse that everyone seems to love too and our Oreo Rice Krispie Treats!)

    Someone holding an Oreo dipped in Oreo dip.

    If you love Oreos as much as we do, then you’ll also love these Oreo cupcakes and these Oreo Brookies!

    Why You’ll Love This Oreo Dip Recipe

    Is it just me, or is the creamy filling inside an Oreo basically the best part? As a kid, I think most of us licked that filling out before we ate the cookies…right?

    This dessert dip has all the cream flavor and fluffy goodness of Oreo cookie filling, and it has crushed Oreos right in it (Oreo lover, rejoice)!

    It’s everything you want from something called “Oreo dip” and more. Trust me, if you make this easy recipe for a party or just as a summer snack recipe. You’ll definitely have guests asking you for the recipe (and they’ll be shocked to learn how simple it was to make).

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    You only need 5 simple ingredients to make this easy Oreo dip!

    Ingredients for Oreo dip set out on a counter with labels on the image.
    Ingredients
    • 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 – 8 ounce tub of whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
    • 18 Oreo cookies (set aside 1 or 2 for topping)

    See the printable recipe card below for the full recipe.

    Instructions

    Making this easy Oreo dip recipe is a breeze. Follow along and I’ll show you how, step-by-step.

    1. In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
    2. Beat with an electric hand mixer until well incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. 
    Cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla creamed together in a bowl.
    Cream together first 3 ingredients.
    1. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
    Whipped topping in a bowl with the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
    Fold in whipped topping.
    1. Place 16 or 17 Oreo cookies into a plastic bag and crush them into small pieces (you can also do this with a food processor if you have one). 
    Oreo cookies in a bag being crushed up, with a bowl of Oreos beside it.
    Crush Oreo cookies.
    1. Add the crushed Oreos into the bowl and gently fold them into the whipped topping mixture.
    Crushed Oreos folded into the dip mixture.
    Fold Oreos into dip mixture.
    1. When ready to serve, crush the remaining 1-2 Oreos on top of the dip. 
    Oreo dip.
    Crumble oreos on top.
    1. Serve this creamy Oreo dip snack with additional cookies, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, pretzels, etc. This would make a delicious sweet snack for your little ones after school, a tasty dessert, or a fun road trip treat (how sweet would this look packed into a bento box alongside some fruit)!
    Oreo dip with graham crackers, strawberries and cookies around it.
    Serve with your favorite dippers!

    What to Serve With Oreo Dip?

    There’s really no wrong answer to this question, but a few of my favorite things to serve alongside this creamy dip are:

    • graham crackers
    • pretzels
    • fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices
    • oreos (and then use the extras to make these Oreo Pancakes tomorrow morning!)
    • vanilla wafers
    • shortbread cookies

    Get creative! You can serve this party dip with any sort of dippable treat you like!

    Substitutions

    Need to make a substitution? Here are my suggestions…

    • Gluten Free – Check your local grocery store for a gluten free “chocolate sandwich cookie” to use in this recipe in place of the Oreos (or, if you’re lucky, you might be able to find gluten free brand name Oreos in your local store)! Even if you need to use gluten free cookies, you’ll still end up with a delicious dip!
    • Dairy Free – It’s getting easier and easier to find dairy free alternatives in grocery stores. Most grocery stores will have a dairy free version of cream cheese in the natural aisle (like Daiya brand or Trader Joe’s). There are also some whipped toppings that are dairy free! So Delicious makes a dairy free whipped coconut topping that would work for this recipe.
    • Whipped Topping Alternative – If you don’t have access to whipped topping but you have a cup of heavy whipping cream, you can make your own! This blog post tells you how to use whipping cream, sour cream, and powdered sugar to make a whipped topping substitution.

    Variations

    This yummy Oreo dip with cream cheese is delicious exactly as it is, but it’s also a great base and could be customized in so many ways! Next time you make this, try…

    • Mix Ins – Fold in some themed sprinkles or candies (think, M&M’s like we use in this dessert cheese ball) to make this dip special for a holiday! Pink heart sprinkles for Valentine’s Day, green sprinkles for St. Patrick’s Day, red and green for Christmas, you get the idea.
    • Add Chocolate Chips – Add a little crunch to your dip and some extra chocolate flavor, fold in a handful of chocolate chips!
    • Brownie Bits -Chop up some one bite brownies (or homemade brownies) and fold them into the batter to take this dip to the next level of chocolate goodness.
    • Oreos – You can use classic Oreo cookies for this recipe, or you can change things up and try different kinds of Oreo cookies! Golden Oreos, lemon Oreos, birthday cake Oreos, mint Oreos, chocolate marshmallow Oreos…any one of these would be delicious!
    no bake oreo dip in white bowl with dippers around
    No Bake Oreo Dip

    Storage

    Store your leftover Oreo cookie dip in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. This dip can be served chilled or at room temperature, it’s personal preference.

    Freezing cream cheese can alter the texture a bit, so freezing isn’t recommended. If you don’t mind if the texture changes, you can definitely freeze this dip in a freezer safe, airtight container or bag for up to three months.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Can I make this dip ahead of time?

    Absolutely! I would recommend not folding the crushed Oreos in until right before you want to serve it, though. It is nice to have a bit of crunchy cookie in the dip, and if you let it sit for too long the Oreos will get a bit softer. That being said, it will still be delicious even if you make the whole thing ahead of time and store it in the fridge!

    What can I use instead of whipped topping?

    If you don’t have access to whipped topping but you have a cup of heavy whipping cream, you can make your own! This blog post tells you how to use whipping cream, sour cream, and powdered sugar to make a whipped topping substitution.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Related Recipes

    Are you looking for more sweet dips? We have a few on the blog that make a delicious dessert or sweet snack, like this viral TikTok booty dip, fruit dip with marshmallow cream or this banana pudding dip!

    Or if you’re looking for one of our favorite dips to serve at Christmas, you’re going to love this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Snack Cake Dip!

    If you’re in the mood for savory dips, we’ve got those too! This elote dip is sooo good (it’s got all the flavor of the iconic Mexican street corn but in convenient dip form) and this easy taco layer dip is one that people beg me to bring to gatherings.

    Recipe

    A bowl of Oreo dip with an Oreo in it and crumbled Oreos on top.
    Print Pin
    5 from 7 votes

    Oreo Dip

    Oreo Dip: This dip is so quick and easy to make! All you need are 10 minutes and five simple ingredients to whip up this creamy, fluffy Oreo dip that's sure to be a crowd pleaser.
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 10 servings
    Calories 277kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounce cream cheese softened
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 – 8 ounce tub of whipped topping
    • 18 Oreo cookies set aside 1 or 2 for topping

    Instructions

    • In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
    • Beat with an electric hand mixer until well incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. 
    • Fold in the whipped topping.
    • Place 16 or 17 Oreo cookies into a plastic bag and crush them into small pieces. 
    • Add the crushed Oreos into the bowl and gently fold them into the whipped topping mixture.
    • When ready to serve, crush the remaining 1-2 Oreos on top of the dip. 
    • Serve with additional cookies, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, pretzels, etc. 

    Video

    Notes

    NOTES: 
    • This dip is best served chilled or at room temperature.
    • Make sure the cream cheese is softened! If you are working directly with "cold/stiff" cream cheese, this may cause tiny little lumps of unblended cream cheese in your dip.
     
    STORAGE: Store your Oreo dip in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This dip can be served chilled or at room temperature – it’s personal preference. 
    Freezing cream cheese can alter the texture a bit, so freezing isn’t recommended. If you don’t mind if the texture changes, you can definitely freeze this dip in a freezer safe, airtight container or bag for up to three months. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 277kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 197mg | Potassium: 89mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 305IU | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 3mg

    Purple Mattress | Personal Review in 2025

    June 26, 2022

    Mom and son playing on purple mattress

    This blog post was sponsored by Purple and all opinions are my own.

    Mom and son playing on purple mattress

    To say that my husband and I were ready for a new mattress is an understatement.

    We had been shopping around and looking at all kinds of different mattresses, ever since we moved in to our furnished home here in Montana. Now, don’t get me wrong… we were so grateful the home already had a bed for us to sleep in when we moved in but we just weren’t grooving with the mattress that was here.

    Our old mattress was a queen size, and being married to someone who doesn’t consider himself to have the body type of a small person… it was a tight squeeze. Add that with “uncomfortable” and it was a combination for a rough night’s sleep.

    So when I had the opportunity to try out the California King, Purple Hybrid Premier mattress, that I had been hearing so many positive reviews about when reading mattress reviews online, I knew we had to get it in to our bedroom, quickly!

    Purple Mattress Review

    From the moment our new Purple mattress arrived (yes! It was delivered right to our house!) I was totally impressed. It arrived, “rolled-up” in a long “tube-like” bag (almost like a large duffel bag), where we could unpack it and unroll it right where we wanted it.

    Now, I say “right where we wanted it” because our mattress arrived before the new bed frame that we ordered. So since we couldn’t wait, we unrolled that baby, right there on the floor, and slept on it for the next few nights!

    That first night was a DREAM! We had more space to stretch out and the comfort we experienced was unlike any other.

    I felt like I was “floating” and my husband actually slept ALL night, which hadn’t happened since moving in.

    When the bed came in a few days later, we were able to easily remove the mattress from the floor and place it on the bed frame! (No box springs needed!)

    California King Hybrid Purple Mattress Review

    Specifications:

    I tend to OVER research things when looking for something online or when needing to buy something that will play a large part in our lives.

    So when researching the Purple mattress, I found these specifications and info about the unique materials, VERY helpful:

    • Purple mattresses have Optimal Temperature: There are 1,800 air channels built into the temperature-neutral grid and breathable foams used in the vase, you'll stay comfortable all night. This was VERY important for my husband as he’s a “hot-sleeper” so making sure we didn’t get a mattress that would make him even hotter, was a priority.
    • The Instant Response is so nice: The hyper-elastic gel Grid immediately flexes to give great support and springs back into place as you readjust and move overnight. I love this because when (and if) I roll around (which I’ve been known to sleep in one position all night on this mattress now), I feel like I’m gently cradled “in-place” when I adjust positions.
    • With the Pressure Reduction feature, the soft, cushioning, smart comfort Grid cradles points like your hips and shoulders, with layers of foam providing extra padding.
    • With the signature Purple Grid, the thicker the gel grid, the less pressure you'll feel. The Hybrid Premier that we received (and that you see in this review) is perfect for sleepers who crave even more of that dreamy "floating" effect – like ME!
    • The mattress has a “StretchMax” Cover which boasts even more stretch, and the soft top material allows you to feel the full benefits of the Purple Grid, while ultra-breathable woven side panels encourage airflow. It’s the perfect complement to the Grid's 1,800+ air channels. Now, even though we have sheets on the bed, that soft cover feels amazing to the touch.
    • With the Purple hybrid mattress that we have, you have the option to get the 3'' or 4'' Purple Grid, which is made from temperature-neutral, hyper-elastic gel, this graded layer is engineered to flex directly under pressure points while still supporting the rest of your body.
    • In regard to “support,” it has responsive support coils which are individually wrapped stainless steel coils that pair with the Grid to offer dynamic pressure relief and support. And what I absolutely love about this, is that each coil is wrapped in premium noise-reducing fabric. The LAST thing I want is a mattress that is “noisy” while my husband or I turn in the middle of the night and it does a great job of being quiet!
    • The Purple Mattress has a signature 2″ gel Grid, that pairs with dual-layered comfort foam to give you just the right mix of support and flex.
    • Dual Comfort Layer Foam: A soft, cushioning layer and a firm, supportive layer create an ideal combination. Both foams are high in density to offer a durable, long-lasting base – which makes me feel really good, hoping it lasts us a long time!
    Purple Mattress in Bedroom - Review

    Best Sheets for Purple Mattress

    Picking out a new mattress that works for YOU is important. But I feel like picking out sheets to go ON that mattress is just as important.

    We knew we wanted TIGHT sheets because we don’t like sheets that pull up around the corners, or get baggy throughout the night if tossing and turning.

    Purple Sheets Review - sheets on bed

    So it was a no-brainer to put Purple sheets on our new mattress and oooooh my goodness. I’ve never felt anything like them. Almost like a VERY soft, breathable t-shirt, (you know, the good tees that feel soft on your skin but not too hot) these sheets are unlike any others I’ve ever slept on.

    I’m so thankful I chose to put these on because it only amplified the sleeping experience.

    California King Purple Mattress Review

    Closer Look

    If you’ve been hanging around Fantabulosity for some time now, then you know that I don’t recommend something without truly loving it.

    Well, this is no exception.

    If you’ve been shopping or needing a new mattress, PLEASE consider buying a Purple. I’ve slept on, and have tried many mattresses over the years and this is by far my favorite.

    It’s incredibly cozy, provides enough support that I need without pressure, and helps me get a FULL night’s sleep. Finally.

    Does the sleeping position matter?

    • As a side sleeper, and someone who loves to hug the edge, I find that it has great edge support and is a good option! Now, since I’m one of the side sleepers, I had heard that the Purple Hybrid Premier was a good choice, and although I’ve never tried the original Purple mattress, I have to agree that the Hybrid was a fantastic choice for me!
    • I also find it’s great for back sleepers (my husband) and stomach sleepers (both of us at times).

    What about body heat at night?

    Another important trait that we love is that it’s ideal for hot sleepers, due to the 1800 air channels and side panels so it can “breathe”.

    How does it feel?

    It has a responsive feel, is a comfortable mattress, and is a good option for different types of sleepers! Honestly, I truly feel like it’s one of the best mattresses I’ve ever slept on.

    Now, going to bed at night is not only a daily routine, it’s an experience.

    Banana Pudding Dip

    June 26, 2022

    banana pudding dip on serving tray with crackers and fresh fruit

    Banana Pudding Dip: An easy creamy dip that can be served with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, and fresh fruit as a no bake dessert recipe that’s a sweet treat everyone will love!

    Quick Overview: Prep this recipe in only 10 minutes and chill for 30 minutes! Then it’s ready to enjoy!

    Banana Pudding Dip in bowl with dippers surrounding it on a tray

    Why You Should Make This Banana Dip!

    No bake recipes are one of our favorite things to make here. Why? Because they’re so easy to make and are usually so quick to put together.

    Love banana cream pie? This dip is an easier way to snack and enjoy the flavors, similar to the best banana pudding recipe out there!

    Simple Ingredients: This banana cream pie dip (you could also call it), is made with only a few ingredients (kind of like this 3-ingredient fruit dip) and they’re all ingredients that you should be able to find at your local grocery store! So it’s an easy banana pudding dip that you’ll want to make over and over again.

    Crowd-Pleaser: When you’re asked to bring a dessert to a party, this amazing dessert dip will leave everyone begging for the recipe and you’ll be the hero of the night. If you have time to bake something, you may want to try this banana pudding poke cake recipe too.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    5 ingredients! Yes, that’s all you need to make this dip! (Plus the items you want to serve with it for dipping!)

    labeled ingredients for banana pudding dip on table
    Ingredients
    • 3.4 ounce banana cream pudding mix
    • 1 ½ cups milk
    • 8oz cream cheese, softened
    • 1 cup whipped topping, cool whip
    • 1 banana, sliced
    • Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, strawberries, chocolate-covered pretzels, banana chips for dipping

    Make sure to scroll down to see the full, printable recipe card with ingredients and instructions all in one place!

    Instructions

    1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the banana cream pudding mix and the milk. Set aside.
    pudding mix and milk in glass bowl
    Mix pudding and milk
    Pudding and milk mixed in bowl
    Pudding mixed
    1. In a medium sized mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer, whip the cream cheese until light and fluffy.
    cream cheese in white mixing bowl
    Mix cream cheese
    cream cheese mixed in bowl
    Mixed cream cheese
    1. Add the pudding mixture in to the cream cheese mixture and mix in medium speed until fully incorporated with no lumps.
    pudding added to cream cheese in mixing bowl
    Add pudding
    pudding mixed with cream cheese
    Mixed pudding and cream cheese
    1. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the 1 cup of whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until ready to use.
    Cool whip added to mixture in bowl
    Add Cool Whip
    Cool Whip mixed in to pudding
    Mix Cool Whip in
    1. Remove from refrigerator and top with the sliced fresh bananas, more whipped cream, and crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
    Banana pudding dip poured in to serving dish
    Top with banana slices
    Vanilla wafers placed on dip
    Add vanilla wafers

    What to serve with banana pudding dip?

    Enjoy this dip by dipping with items such as:

    • vanilla wafers
    • graham crackers
    • fresh fruit
    • cookies
    • and more!

    How to serve:

    You can serve it right in the bowl that you mixed it in, or pour in a fun serving dish!

    For another serving option, you can layer the dip with banana slices, nilla wafers, and whipped topping for a trifle dish!

    Dip topped with Cool Whip
    Top with Cool Whip

    Substitutions

    Not a fan of banana pudding? You can substitute banana pudding for french vanilla pudding (like we used in this carrot poke cake) or even try an instant chocolate pudding for a chocolate pudding dip!

    Close up of banana pudding dip
    Serve!

    Variations

    Making this for fun, at home for say, a family game night? Experiment by adding other fun toppings on top of the dip, such as:

    • chocolate or caramel drizzle
    • crushed Oreos
    • sprinkle of cinnamon on top
    • strawberry ice cream topping
    • chopped nuts
    • toasted coconut
    Banana pudding dipped with chocolate pretzel
    Dip with snacks!

    Storage

    To store this dip recipe, wrap with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

    Top tip

    This banana dip can easily be doubled to serve more people-it will go quickly!

    More No Bake Dip Recipes

    There are other great recipes here on Fantabulosity when you’re looking for a sweet treat, such as this booty dip and this pumpkin fluff!

    Related Recipes

    Oh friend… if you love the idea of this banana pudding dip, then you’re also going to love these other banana recipes that we’ve shared with you. This banana bread pudding is a combo between our popular banana bread recipe and bread pudding recipe!

    You’ll also love this banana cream pie, these banana pudding brownies, and these banana peanut butter brownies!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    banana pudding dip on serving tray with crackers and fresh fruit
    Print Pin
    5 from 8 votes

    Banana Pudding Dip

    Banana Pudding Dip: An easy creamy dip that can be served with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, and fresh fruit as a no bake dessert recipe that's a sweet treat everyone will love!
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Chill Time 30 minutes minutes
    Total Time 40 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 205kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 3.4 ounce box of banana cream pudding mix
    • 1 ½ cups milk
    • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
    • 1 cup whipped topping such as Cool Whip
    • 1 banana sliced

    Dippers

    • graham crackers
    • vanilla wafers
    • strawberries
    • chocolate covered pretzels
    • banana chips

    Instructions

    • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the banana cream pudding mix and the milk. Set aside.
    • In a medium sized mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer, whip the cream cheese until light and fluffy.
    • Add the pudding mixture and mix in medium speed until fully incorporated with no lumps.
    • Using a rubber spatula, fold in the 1 cup of whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until ready to use.
    • Top with the sliced bananas, more whipped topping and crushed vanilla wafers if desired!
    • Serve with dippers such as cookies, crackers, fresh fruit, etc. See post for more ideas and variations!

    Notes

    Storage of Leftovers
    To store, wrap with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
    Making for a crowd?
    This recipe can easily be doubled to serve more people!
    Alternate way of serving:
    For another serving option, you can layer the dip with banana slices, vanilla wafers, and whipped topping for a trifle dish.
    See post for more ideas and tips!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 205kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 294mg | Potassium: 170mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 471IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 92mg | Iron: 0.1mg

    Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries

    June 25, 2022

    Close-up of strawberry, cut open half way from bottom, with cheesecake filling

    Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries: This easy, no bake recipe, is perfect for summer! The cheesecake filling is made with only a few simple ingredients such as cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and graham cracker crumbs!

    Quick Overview: In only 20 minutes, these will be ready for a one-hour chill time! Then serve!

    strawberries on cutting board, that are filled with cheesecake filling

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    No bake: With spring and summer traditionally being “strawberry season” this strawberries recipe, using fresh strawberries is the perfect fit for the time of year. Plus, with the warmer months, and it being a no bake treat, it’s such a crowd-pleaser on a hot day! (Think, a baby shower, bridal showers, Mother’s Day, family gatherings, etc.)

    But don’t get me wrong. Making these for Valentine’s Day is just as much of a treat as they are any other time of year too, like our pink chocolate covered strawberries!

    Easy Dessert: With little effort, you can have these juicy strawberries filled with creamy cheesecake filling, and ready for eating!

    Cheesecake filling: Talk about a creamy filling! This cream cheese filling comes together in no time and has that flavor of creamy cheesecake in the center of the strawberries that will make you swoon!

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    Ingredients

    Only 6 ingredients are necessary for this recipe, and you may even have most of them on hand already or can easily find them at your local grocery store!

    ingredients on table with food labels
    • 2 pounds of fresh strawberries, washed
    • 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
    • ½ cup powdered sugar
    • 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs

    Make sure to see the full printable, recipe card below with the ingredients and instructions all in one place!

    Instructions

    1. Slice off the green stems of the strawberries so that they sit flat with the "stem" side, facing down.
    2. On the other end of the strawberry (narrow end) cut an “X” from the tip through part of the base, but make sure not slice all the way through or your strawberries will fall apart. Repeat with the remaining strawberries and set aside.
    strawberries sliced and cut for filling
    Slice and cut
    1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
    2. Add the powdered sugar, cream and vanilla to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
    cream cheese beaten in glass bowl with mixer
    Beat the cream cheese
    vanilla, cream and sugar in cream cheese bowl
    Add cream, sugar & vanilla
    1. Once mixed together, fill a pastry bag with a tip, or plastic ziptop bag (such as a Ziploc bag) with the end cut off. (Get a piping bag and tip set here!)
    Mixed cream cheese mixture in glass bowl
    Cheesecake filling
    1. Pipe the cream cheese filling into the center or each sliced strawberry, filling it up all the way.
    Piped strawberries with cream filling on cutting board
    Piped strawberries with filling
    1. Sprinkle each strawberry with a bit of graham cracker crumbs.
    graham cracker crumbs sprinkled on top of strawberries
    Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs
    1. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour or until ready to serve. Enjoy!
    graham cracker crumbs sprinkled on top of strawberries
    Enjoy!

    Substitutions & Variations

    If you want to experiment with different toppings for these stuffed strawberries, here are some ideas that we have for you that you can try:

    Topping Suggestions

    • Crushed Oreos
    • Crushed peanuts (or other nuts like pistacios, pecans, etc.)
    • Chocolate syrup drizzle
    • Caramel drizzle
    • Mini chocolate chips
    • Cinnamon graham crackers instead of honey
    Close up of cheesecake stuffed strawberries
    Cheesecake Strawberries

    Storage

    If you happen to have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

    Expert Tips

    What can I do with lots of strawberries?

    Making cheesecake stuffed strawberries is a great way to use them up! However there are other desserts you can make with strawberries, such as strawberry crumble, strawberry cheesecake cookies, or even cover them with chocolate!

    How do you core a strawberry for stuffing?

    Instead of coring the strawberries, we’ve found it’s better to cut an “X” from the tip (narrow end) through part of the base! However, do not slice all the way through or your strawberries will fall apart. 

    Related Recipes

    Love strawberry desserts? Then you’ll really love some of our favorite desserts, such as these strawberry brownies, strawberry shortcake cookies, and these berry trifles! Or, for another no-bake recipe, this strawberry cream cheese icebox cake is a great option!

    Or, if you love cheesecake, then you’re going to absolutely adore this San Sebastian Cheesecake!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    Close-up of strawberry, cut open half way from bottom, with cheesecake filling
    Print Pin
    5 from 7 votes

    Easy Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries

    Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries: This easy, no bake dessert only takes a few simple ingredients such as strawberries, cream cheese, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, vanilla extract, and heavy cream!
    Course Appetizer, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 20 minutes minutes
    Chill Time 1 hour hour
    Total Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes
    Servings 20 strawberries
    Calories 85kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 pounds fresh strawberries washed
    • 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
    • ½ cup powdered sugar
    • 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs

    Instructions

    • Slice off the green stems of the strawberries so that they sit flat with the "stem" side, facing down.
    • On the other end of the strawberry (narrow end) cut an "X" from the tip through part of the base, but make sure not to slice all the way through or your strawberries will fall apart. Repeat with the remaining strawberries and set aside.
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
    • Add the powdered sugar, cream and vanilla to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
    • Once mixed together, fill a pastry bag or plastic, ziptop bag with the end cut off.
    • Pipe the cream cheese filling into the center or each sliced strawberry, filling it up all the way.
    • Sprinkle each strawberry with a bit of graham cracker crumbs.
    • Chill in the refrigerator for one hour or until ready to serve. Enjoy!

    Notes

    Storage: 
    If you happen to have leftover strawberries, you can store them in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1strawberry | Calories: 85kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 54mg | Potassium: 89mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 169IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 0.3mg

    Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

    June 20, 2022

    Air fryer baby potatoes.

    Air Fryer Baby Potatoes: This baby potato recipe is quick and easy – all you need are mini potatoes, olive oil, and some spices to create these mouthwatering potatoes! This air fryer recipe is an alternative to stovetop fried potatoes, that’s the perfect side dish for a busy weeknight but fancy enough for those special occasions, too!

    Air fryer baby potatoes.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    Is it just me, or do small potatoes taste better than full size ones? I don’t know what it is, but crispy baby potatoes are my favorite!

    These potatoes are so quick and easy to make, they have a delicious rosemary flavor, the skin gets just the perfect amount of crispness from the air fryer, and you don’t have to heat up your house by turning on the oven to make them!

    This easy recipe is going to be one you’ll want to add to your meal plan, for sure!

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    Ingredients

    These delicious little potatoes are made with simple ingredients, as most of the best dishes are! You can find fresh rosemary and baby potatoes at your local grocery store, and the rest of the ingredients you probably have in your cupboard right now.

    Ingredients for baby potatoes in the air fryer with labels on the image.
    Ingredients
    • 1.5 pounds mini gold potatoes
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • ½ teaspoon flakey sea salt
    • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

    You can find all of the ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.

    Instructions

    It’s so easy to make these mini potatoes in the air fryer!

    1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F while you are preparing the potatoes. 
    2. Cut your baby gold potatoes in half and place in a large bowl. Drizzle potatoes with olive oil then sprinkle with chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss the potatoes to evenly coat with oil and seasonings.
    Baby potatoes on a cutting board. Some are cut in half, some are whole.
    Cut potatoes in half.
    A teaspoon of spice being held high above a bowl of cut baby potatoes.
    Drizzle with oil, add spices.
    1. Place your cut baby potatoes in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15 minutes turning once halfway through cooking. 
    An air fryer basket with raw baby potatoes that are covered in oil and spices in it.
    Cook in air fryer in single layer.
    1. Enjoy these air fry baby potatoes immediately with your favourite dipping sauces or a dollop of sour cream!
    Air fryer baby potatoes in a bowl.
    Enjoy!

    Substitutions

    Do you need to change something up in this recipe? Here are some of my suggestions…

    • Olive Oil – I use olive oil because of its high smoke point and mild flavor, but you can definitely replace it with your favorite oil and the end result will still be delicious.
    • Rosemary – Fresh rosemary can be substituted for 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
    • Mini Potatoes – if you don’t have mini potatoes, you can cut larger potatoes into 6-8 pieces (depending on how large the potato is) and you should be able to keep the cook times the same.
    • Potato Type – if you don’t have gold mini potatoes (or baby potatoes, small potatoes, fingerling potatoes…whatever you call them), you could also use mini red potatoes. New potatoes from the garden would also be delicious! All of these potatoes have thin skins and would crisp up nicely (I would NOT recommend using a russet potato for this, its skin is too thick).

    Variations

    This recipe is very simple, but that’s part of its charm. Like most simple recipes, you can get creative and make this one recipe so many different ways! Try the variations below and make your air fryer mini potatoes your own way.

    • Spicy Tex Mex – omit the rosemary and garlic powder and instead add 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning. If you like things spicy, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to your liking as well!
    • Cheesy – after you’ve coated your potatoes with olive oil, add ¼ cup of parmesan cheese to the potatoes along with your spices for a delicious cheesy variation on these air fryer roasted baby potatoes!
    • Spice Swap – you can change out the rosemary and garlic in this recipe for your favorite seasonings! Try using Italian seasoning, cajun seasoning, onion powder, fresh parsley, etc.

    Can I use whole baby potatoes?

    If you want to make air fryer whole baby potatoes, you will simply need to adjust the cooking time. When you cut the mini potatoes in half they cook a bit faster. For a whole baby potato, I would let them cook for 20 minutes (turning them half way through) and then check for doneness. The potatoes are done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

    Storage

    Store any leftover air fryer baby potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat them, reheating them in the air fryer for a few minutes will warm them up and make them crispy again!

    Top tip

    What temp should you air fry potatoes?

    I find that potatoes cook best at 400°F in the air fryer. If you cook them at a lower temperature they will still cook through (although it will take longer), but they won’t get nice and crispy on the outside.

    Why are my potatoes not crispy in the air fryer?

    If your potatoes don’t have a nice crispy skin after cooking in the air fryer, the most likely cause is crowding. If your potatoes are too squished, the air can’t get around all sides of the potato and it won’t be able to cook to that nice crispy brown you are looking for. Make sure that you don’t pack your air fryer basket too full – it’s better to do two batches and have nice crispy potatoes!

    Do you need to boil potatoes before putting them in air fryer?

    Not at all! You can simply pop your raw potatoes (with their oil and spices) right in the air fryer basket and cook them!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Related Recipes

    If you liked this easy air fryer recipe, I think you’d also like these easy air fryer breakfast potatoes (because who doesn’t love crispy breakfast potatoes without the restaurant wait?!) and these frozen sweet potatoes French fries in the air fryer (ready in just 10 minutes)!

    Or if love potato recipes, and you have a slow cooker, you’ll love these crock pot cheesy potatoes!

    Recipe

    Air fryer baby potatoes.
    Print Pin
    5 from 2 votes

    Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

    Air Fryer Baby Potatoes: This baby potato recipe is quick and easy – all you need are mini potatoes, olive oil, and some spices to create these mouthwatering potatoes! This is the perfect side dish for a busy weeknight but fancy enough for those special occasions, too! 
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes minutes
    Servings 6 side servings
    Calories 110kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1.5 pounds mini gold potatoes
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • ½ teaspoon flakey sea salt
    • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

    Instructions

    • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F while you are preparing the potatoes.
    • Cut potatoes in half and place in a large bowl. Drizzle potatoes with olive oil then sprinkle with chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss the potatoes to evenly coat with oil and seasonings.
    • Add potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15 minutes turning once halfway through cooking. 
    • Enjoy these air fry baby potatoes immediately with your favourite dipping sauces or a dollop of sour cream! 

    Notes

    NOTES: 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary can be substituted for the fresh rosemary.
     
    STORAGE: Store any leftover air fryer baby potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat them, reheating them in the air fryer for a few minutes will warm them up and make them crispy again!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 201mg | Potassium: 488mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 13IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

    Elote Dip

    June 18, 2022

    Elote corn dip in a bowl with lime wedges.

    Elote Dip: In just 15 minutes, you can have this warm, cheesy Mexican street corn dip on the table! This is the best dip – it’s quick & easy and will be your new go-to appetizer! Similar to this crack corn dip, it’s full of corn, a creamy base, and delicious flavors.

    Elote corn dip in a bowl with lime wedges and someone dipping a corn chip into it.
    Elote dip

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    I love food with a good spice kick, but not everyone feels the same way. If you are looking for a Mexican themed dish that won’t melt sensitive tastebuds, this elote dip recipe is it! This dip is full of flavor without any spicy heat (and it’s also delicious – this is a seriously elite corn dip)!

    It’s also gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be made with canned or frozen corn so it’s easy to whip up on short notice. This is one of those dips you’ll be making for every party you go to and the guests will be begging you for the recipe.

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    Ingredients

    Good food doesn’t have to be difficult to be delicious, and this is a prime example. This Mexican elote dip recipe is made with fairly simple ingredients you can find at most grocery stores! If you can’t find cotija cheese at your grocery store, see our substitutions section for ideas on what else you can use.

    Ingredients for elite dip with labels on the image.
    Ingredients
    • 2 – 15 ounce cans whole kernel corn, drained
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • ⅓ cup cotija cheese
    • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
    • 4 tablespoons sour cream
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
    • 1 lime juiced
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

    See the printable recipe card below for ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

    Instructions

    This easy elote dip is a breeze to make. In just 5 simple steps you’ll have a delicious Mexican street corn dip that your guests will rave about!

    1. In a large skillet with a heavy bottom (like a cast iron skillet) set over medium heat, melt the butter and add in the corn.
    2. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, or until the corn kernels have started to char on some pieces. 
    Corn in a skillet.
    Cook corn.
    1. Remove from the heat and transfer the corn to a medium bowl. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before adding the remaining ingredients. 
    All ingredients for elote dip in a bowl.
    Add remaining ingredients.
    1. Mix mayonnaise, roasted corn and the rest of the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
    Elote dip stirred together in a mixing bowl.
    1. Scoop this into your favorite serving bowl and enjoy with warm corn chips! This warm elote dip makes a great side dish for a summer bbq and would be perfect to serve for a cinco de mayo celebration!
    Someone dipping a tortilla chip into a bowl of elote dip with a lime in it.
    Enjoy!

    Substitutions

    Need to make a swap? Here are my suggestions…

    • Corn – if you don’t have cans of corn, you can use frozen corn or corn cut straight off the cob for this recipe!
    • Cotija – this might be tough to find if you don’t have a lot of Mexican inspired ingredients at your local grocery stores. The best replacement for cotija is queso fresco, but you could also use feta cheese for this recipe – the flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious!
    • Mayo/Sour Cream – only have one or the other? While using both creates the best flavor, you can opt to use one or the other for the full amount (8 tablespoons) and you will still end up with a delicious, creamy dip. You could even replace the sour cream with greek yogurt if you like.
    • Lime Juice – I’m a big fan of lime juice, but you could absolutely use lemon juice in this recipe instead.
    • Parsley – I know cilantro is a bit of a not a fan or love it type thing, but if you are one of those people who loves it then be sure to add it! Chop up some fresh cilantro and use it in place of the parsley in this recipe for a more authentic flavor.

    Variations

    Looking to have some fun and get creative? I have suggestions for that, too!

    • Spicy – add some chopped jalapeños and a splash of your favorite hot sauce into this dip if you’re a spice lover like me! You could also add some pepper jack cheese in addition to the cotija to add some kick in cheese form as well!
    • Add Protein – if you’re looking to turn this dip into more of a main dish and add some protein, you could add some taco meat or pulled chicken!
    • Add Onion – dice up some red onion and mix it into your elote recipe for some added flavor.

    Storage

    Store your elote dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

    Expert tips and FAQs

    What is an elote made of?

    Elote isa Mexican dish that is made by grilling corn cobs and then slathering them with mayonnaise. Typically it is seasoned with chili powder, lime juice and then sprinkled with cotija cheese and cilantro.


    What does elote style mean?

    When a recipe says it is “elote style”, it simply means that it has been modelled after the elote corn that is sold by street vendors at Mexican markets and festivals. This delicious recipe incorporates all the flavors of Mexican street corn, but in an easy dip form!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Related Recipes

    If you’re looking for more easy recipes for an amazing dip, you have to check out this smoked queso recipe (smoked sausage, beer, and cheese…need I say more?) and this easy taco layer dip recipe (a huge hit at every party I go to).

    Recipe

    Elote corn dip in a bowl with lime wedges.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Elote Dip

    Elote Dip: In just 15 minutes, you can have this warm, cheesy Mexican street corn dip on the table! This is the best dip – it's quick & easy and will be your new go-to appetizer!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Diet Vegetarian
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes minutes
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 141kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 – 15 ounce cans whole kernel corn drained
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • ⅓ cup cotija cheese
    • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
    • 4 tablespoons sour cream
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
    • 1 lime juiced
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

    Instructions

    • In a medium sized heavy-bottomed skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter and add in the corn.
    • Cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, or until the corn has started to char on some pieces. 
    • Remove from the heat and transfer the corn to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before adding the remaining ingredients. 
    • Add in the rest of the ingredients and stir together well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
    • Enjoy with warm tortilla chips!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store your elote dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. 
    NOTES: If corn is in season, fresh corn cut from the cob is even more delicious than canned!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 141kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 194mg | Potassium: 47mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 424IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 58mg | Iron: 0.3mg

    Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

    June 15, 2022

    A bowl full of air fryer pigs in a blanket.

    Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket: This classic appetizer is made even easier by making it in the air fryer. All you need are crescent rolls and hot dogs to make this quick & easy recipe that’s perfect for game day (or any day)!

    A bowl of air fryer pigs in a blanket.

    How about a breakfast version? Try these breakfast pigs in a blanket too!

    Why You’ll Love This Easy Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

    Sometimes you just need an easy recipe that is guaranteed to be delicious, you know what I mean? These air fryer pigs in a blanket make amazing appetizers or snacks because they only require two ingredients and they are so quick and easy to make (so you know they’ll be perfect every time)!

    These also make me feel nostalgic - pigs in a blanket were a fun thing my family would make as appetizers when I was a kid, so it’s extra fun to share them with my kids now! My kids think these delicious bite sized pigs in a blanket are the cutest little things, so they love these just as much as these air fryer french bread pizzas!

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    Ingredients

    This simple recipe is the easiest one EVER! You only need two ingredients - seriously, two!

    You will also need an air fryer (like a Ninja Foodi or similar - see our top air fryers for my reviews & top picks).

    Ingredients for air fryer pigs in a blanket with labels on the image.
    Ingredients
    • 1 tube crescent rolls
    • 8 hot dogs

    That’s it! Read on to see how easy it is to make these crescent dogs or skip straight to the printable recipe card below…

    How do you make pigs in a blanket in air fryer?

    The ingredients are simple, and so are the steps to make these air fryer crescent dogs (or pigs in a blanket - call them whatever you like, I just call them delicious).

    1. Prepare hotdogs by cutting them in half.
    2. Roll half the crescent dough out so you can see 4 triangles. Slowly work seams together so you have one piece of dough.
    Unrolled crescent dough from a can on a cutting board.
    Work dough seams together so you have one big sheet.
    1. Using a pizza cutter, cut dough into 8 strips. Repeat this with the other half of the dough. You will have a total of 16 strips.
    2. Wrap each strip around each half hot dog.
    Hot dogs, cut in half and wrapped in a strip of crescent dough.
    Wrap strip around hot dog.
    1. Place pigs in a blanket in a greased air fryer basket so they are about an inch apart in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to cook in a couple batches.
    8 pigs in a blanket in the basket of an air fryer, unbaked.
    Place wrapped dogs in air fryer basket.
    1. Air fryer at 350°F for 4 minutes, then flip. Continue air frying for 4 more minutes or until crescent dough is golden.
    8 pigs in a blanket in the basket of an air fryer, baked.
    Air fry 4 mins each side.
    1. Serve your pigs in a blanket with your favorite dipping sauces! This is the perfect appetizer for a game day party, a birthday party, or really any day!
    Someone dipping a pig in a blanket into ketchup that is in a tiny stainless steel bowl.
    Serve with dipping sauces!

    Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket Temperature

    I’ve found that 350° is the best temperature to cook these pigs in a blanket at. You can turn the heat up a bit if you are in a hurry and decrease the cooking time by a minute, but make sure you watch them so they don’t get too brown!

    Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket Time

    When you are cooking them at 350°, you’ll need to cook them for 4 mins on each side. If you are turning the temperature up you’ll have to keep an eye on them, but I think you would want to decrease the cook time by a minute on each side.

    You want to cook them until the crescent roll dough is nice and golden brown and the hot dog looks a bit sweaty.

    A pig in a blanket in the foreground with a bowl of ketchup in the background.

    Substitutions & Variations

    Need to swap out one of these two ingredients? Want to mix things up a little bit? Here are my suggestions!

    • Hot dogs – instead of hot dogs cut in half, you could make these easy air fryer pigs with cocktail sausages! Save the hot dogs for this delicious buffalo hot dog recipe!) Cocktail sausages can also be called cocktail weenies, little smokies, mini hotdogs, lil’ smokies, mini sausages, mini dog…no matter what they are called, they are the same. They are made so they can be eaten in one or two little bites, so they are perfect for this recipe.
    • Crescent dough – if you don’t have access to canned crescent dough, you could also make these with puff pastry dough (either the flakey puff pastry you find in the freezer section of the grocery store of even a homemade version).

    What to Dip your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket In

    The best way to create variations on this recipe is to mix up the dipping sauce! Here are some of my favorite sauces to use…

    • bbq sauce
    • ketchup
    • honey mustard
    • mustard
    • cheese sauce (try this pretzel cheese dip, it would be perfect)
    • jalapeño ranch dip

    Storage

    Store your air fryer pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. When you’re ready to eat them, you can reheat them in the microwave or in the air fryer if you’d like them to be a bit crispy again!

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Can I make these pigs in a blanket ahead of time?

    Yes! You can wrap the hot dogs (or cocktail sausages) in the dough ahead of time and then freeze them. When you are ready to cook the frozen pigs, you’ll just need to increase the cook time by a minute or so on each side. Flip them after 5 minutes and cook for another 5, then see if they are golden brown. If not, cook for another minute or so.

    What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I make these in the oven?

    Yes, you certainly can. There are plenty of recipes you can find online for oven-baked pigs in a blanket, and it seems most of those recommend baking them at 375° for 10-14 minutes.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Looking for more air fryer appetizers?

    We have quite a few air fryer recipes here on the blog, so if you’re looking for more quick and easy air fryer appetizer recipes be sure to check it out! Our fried shrimp with cocktail sauce is a delicious, easy appetizer recipe, and so are our air fryer eggplant fries.

    Recipe

    A bowl full of air fryer pigs in a blanket.
    Print Pin
    5 from 4 votes

    Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

    Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket: This classic recipe is made even easier by making it in the air fryer. All you need are crescent rolls and hot dogs to make this quick & easy appetizer that's perfect for game day (or any day)!
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 8 minutes minutes
    Total Time 18 minutes minutes
    Servings 16 pigs in a blanket
    Calories 105kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • air fryer

    Ingredients

    • 1 tube crescent rolls
    • 8 hot dogs

    Instructions

    • Prepare hotdogs by cutting them in half.
    • Roll half the crescent dough out so you can see 4 triangles. Slowly work seams together so you have one piece of dough.
    • Using a pizza cutter, cut dough into 8 strips. Repeat this with the other half of the dough. You will have a total of 16 strips.
    • Wrap each strip around each half hot dog.
    • Place pigs in a blanket in a greased air fryer basket so they are about an inch apart. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to cook in a couple batches.
    • Air fryer at 350°F for 4 minutes, then flip. Continue air frying for 4 more minutes or until crescent dough is golden.
    • Serve your pigs in a blanket with your favorite dipping sauces!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1pig in a blanket | Calories: 105kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 265mg | Potassium: 33mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 1mg

    Cherry Coca-Cola Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

    June 14, 2022

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork shredded with bbq sauce

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: This recipe is an easy slow cooker recipe for pork shoulder that can be made with simple ingredients and has an amazing flavor because it’s cooked in Cherry Coca-Cola! Similar to our Instant Pot Pulled Pork, this comes out so tender and flavorful.

    pile of slow cooker pulled pork with bbq sauce drizzle

    Quick Overview: Cook on “high” for 5-6 hours, or on “low” for 8-10 hours and serves 8-10 (½ lb. per person)! Serve on a bun, alone, or as pork sliders, as bbq nachos, salad, or stuffed in a baked potato like we did with this shrimp stuffed potato! Want a bit fancier of a meal? Cook a roasted pork tenderloin in the slow cooker next time.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    Cherry Coke: I’m sure you’ve heard of cooking pork shoulder (or pork butt) in Coca-Cola but the flavor of Cherry Cola, takes it to a whole other level!

    Set it and Forget it: Who doesn’t love a recipe that you can put in a slow cooker on busy days, turn it on and let it cook until it’s done? (Kind of like making a batch of this slow cooker shredded chicken or these slow cooker beef tacos.) Slow cooker recipes are hard to beat, especially this great recipe!

    Easy: This is such an easy recipe! With just a few minutes of prep (about 10 minutes) you can have this cut of pork ready for the crock pot in no time for some slow cooker bbq!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    Would you believe it only takes a few ingredients to make this pulled pork flavorful? It’s true! You may even have most of these ingredients on hand already!

    Make sure to check out the full recipe card below that lists the ingredients and full instructions for you, all in one spot!

    • 1 4-5 pound boneless pork shoulder (we think this is the best cut of meat to use)
    • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 
    • 1 tablespoon onion powder 
    • 1 tablespoon garlic powder 
    • 1 tablespoon salt 
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper 
    • 2 teaspoons liquid smoke 
    • ¼ cup brown sugar 
    • 12 ounces cherry cola 
    • 1 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray or homemade bbq sauce)
    ingredients for slow cooker pulled pork on white counter
    Ingredients

    How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

    1. Mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, liquid smoke and brown sugar.
    2. Then, put the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and rub all sides with the rub, trying to cover it the best you can.
    raw pork shoulder in crockpot
    Place pork in slow cooker
    Pork shoulder coated with barbecue sauce
    Pour barbecue sauce on to meat
    1. Next, pour the BBQ sauce over the meat (you can use a brush if that’s easier, to cover with sauce. Then, pour the soda over the pork.
    2. Put the lid on the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or 5-6 hours on high.
    Pouring cherry coke over pork shoulder
    Pour cherry cola over pork
    Cooked pork shoulder in slow cooker
    1. The meat is cooked and ready to eat when the meat is tender enough to pull apart, easily, with two forks.
    Pulled pork shredded on cutting board

    If desired, you can save some of the meat drippings and juices, and pour over the shredded pork, or cook the pulled pork in the sauce till thick.

    Pro tip: For best results, if you won’t be serving right away, make sure to turn the slow cooker to the warm setting, so not to overcook and make it mushy.

    Pulled pork in white bowl with tongs

    Do you need liquid in the slow cooker for pulled pork?

    Yes. That’s what will make it moist and juicy! By using something like Cherry Coke (like in this recipe) it’s the liquid that it needs and gives it a delicious flavor!

    Substitutions

    If you don’t have Cherry Coke, that’s ok! You can use regular Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper, or even a sugar free version of these!

    Or, if soda isn’t something you’re interested in, you can use something such as chicken broth for the cooking liquid. (You can even make my easy chicken broth recipe.) However, it may lack some of the flavor that you’ll get by cooking it with cola. So you may want to also add items such as:

    • Worcestershire sauce
    • apple cider vinegar (only a little or it could overpower!)
    • red onion or yellow onion
    • mustard powder
    • soy sauce
    • tomato paste
    Pulled pork in bowl with bbq sauce drizzled on top

    How to Eat Pulled Pork

    • This pulled pork recipe is delicious serve alone as a main course, eating it with a fork, paired with some of your favorite barbecue side dishes, such as this Amish potato salad, a side salad, or even this bacon ranch pasta salad! Pour a little extra bbq sauce on top!
    • Serve a portion on your favorite kind of bun: hamburger, slider buns (like we did with our cheeseburger sliders) kaiser, brioche, wheat, etc. for pulled pork sandwiches!
    • Top tortilla chips with some smoked queso and this pulled pork for some ultimate nachos!

    What to Serve with Pulled Pork

    We absolutely love serving pasta salads or this red-skinned potato salad recipe with pulled pork but this KFC Coleslaw recipe is incredible too. Or, a classic side is a delicious cornbread muffin as well.

    Or, if you haven’t tried hearty baked beans yet, you’re definitely going to want to try those too!

    Tongs holding portion of pulled pork above tray of pork

    Storage

    If you happen to have leftover pulled pork, you can store it in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat by placing the portion in the microwave or place it all in a slow cooker again and reheat on low until heated through!

    Hamburger bun next to try of pulled pork
    Serve on buns or alone!

    Expert Tips

    Can you freeze pulled pork?

    Absolutely! It can be frozen for up to 3 months! We like to place any leftovers in food saver bags, and freeze that way. When we’re ready to enjoy, we remove from the freezer and either thaw out in the refrigerator or place the plastic-sealed bag in a warm water bath and then reheat.

    Do you cook pulled pork fat side up or down?

    Make sure the fat side is on the top while cooking in the slow cooker. This acts as a natural baster and will keep the meat delicious and moist, making it the best pulled pork!

    Can I use the Instant Pot for this pulled pork?

    Yes! I use the slow cooker function on my pressure cooker to cook this bbq pulled pork recipe! Make sure to check out our other easy Instant Pot recipes too!

    Related Recipes

    If you loved this recipe, then I have a feeling you’ll also love the idea of this pulled pork mac and cheese.

    The next time you’re at the grocery store, and want to stock up on pork, we know you’ll love this super popular pork steak recipe that has been pinned on Pinterest thousands of times! We also think you’ll love this slow cooker pork steak, roasted pork tenderloin and these baked pork chops!

    Or, if you love slow cooker recipes, this Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe is a family favorite!

    Recipe

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork shredded with bbq sauce
    Print Pin
    5 from 9 votes

    Cherry Cola Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: This recipe for pork shoulder is an easy slow cooker recipe that can be made with simple ingredients and has an amazing flavor because it's cooked in Cherry Coca Cola!
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 5 hours hours
    Total Time 5 hours hours 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 317kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • slow cooker

    Ingredients

    • 4 pounds pork shoulder 4-5 pounds will work!
    • 1 tablespoon onion powder
    • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
    • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
    • ¼ cup brown sugar
    • 1 cup barbecue sauce We LOVE Sweet Baby Rays
    • 12 ounces cherry cola Such as Cherry Coke

    Instructions

    • Mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, liquid smoke and brown sugar.
    • Then, put the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and rub all sides with the rub, trying to cover it the best you can.
    • Next, pour the BBQ sauce over the meat (you can use a brush if that's easier, to cover with sauce.
    • Then, pour the soda over the pork. Put the lid on the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or 5-6 hours on high.
    • The meat is cooked and ready to eat when the meat is tender enough to pull apart, easily, with two forks.
    • If desired, you can save some of the meat drippings and juices, and pour over the meat, or cook the pulled pork in the sauce till thick.

    Notes

    How to make pulled pork moist?
    Make sure the fat side is on the top while cooking in the slow cooker. This acts as a natural baster and will keep the meat delicious and moist!
    How to freeze pulled pork: Pulled pork can be frozen up to 3 months! We like to place any leftovers in food saver bags, and freeze that way. When we’re ready to enjoy, we remove from the freezer and either thaw out in the refrigerator or place the plastic-sealed bag in a warm water bath and then reheat.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 0.5pounds | Calories: 317kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 93mg | Sodium: 1354mg | Potassium: 609mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 521IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 2mg

    Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins

    June 14, 2022

    A buttermilk blueberry muffin cut in half with butter on one half.

    Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins: These fluffy, moist buttermilk muffins are made from scratch and with lots of blueberries, making them the perfect snack or breakfast menu addition! This is also the perfect recipe for blueberry season!

    Quick Overview: Cream butter & sugars, add wet ingredients, then dry. Stir in blueberries, divide into 12 muffin tins and bake for 30-35 mins at 375°!

    8 buttermilk blueberry muffins in a muffin pan.

    Why You’ll Love this Blueberry Muffin Recipe with Buttermilk

    I think everyone should have a good blueberry muffin recipe in their recipe box, and this might just be the best blueberry muffins recipe ever! Using buttermilk helps make these muffins soft without making them too crumbly, the fresh blueberries give the muffin a delicious blueberry flavor, and the sprinkle of sugar on top is just the sweet finish these muffins need!

    These muffins are super simple to make and don’t require any fancy ingredients, so you can whip these up anytime you are looking for a delicious, juicy blueberry filled treat! This lemon blueberry loaf is also bursting with plump blueberries and comes together quickly and easily.

    What Makes Muffins Light and Fluffy?

    There are a few key things you can do to achieve light and fluffy muffins. The first is make sure your eggs and oil are at room temperature before combining with the other ingredients.

    When at room temperature, it allows the batter to trap air and expand while baking. In addition to that, baking powder allows baked goods rise in the oven. When your muffins expand and rise in the oven, they come out light and fluffy!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients for Blueberry Buttermilk Muffins

    This recipe uses simple ingredients and you may even have most of them on hand already!

    Ingredients for buttermilk blueberry muffins with labels on the image.
    • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
    • ¾ cups white granulated sugar `
    • ½ cup brown sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2 cups all purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • ½ cup buttermilk
    • 2 cups blueberries washed, drained, and picked over (Have more? Whip up this blueberry skillet cobbler recipe too!)
    • 3 teaspoons coarse sugar like this sugar or turbinado sugar, optional

    See the printable recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

    What does buttermilk do to muffins?

    Buttermilk is a wonderful addition to a lot of baked goods. It adds flavor without adding extra fat, and the acidity helps to tenderize the gluten from the flour (which makes your muffin more tender). The acidity also helps your baked goods to rise. It’s a win-win all around!

    Instructions

    1. Heat oven to 375°.
    2. Cream the butter and ¾ cup white sugar and ½ cup brown sugar in a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.
    Butter, brown sugar and white sugar in a mixing bowl.
    Cream together butter and sugars.
    1. Add the eggs, beating well, then add vanilla and mix in.
    Creamed butter and sugar in a mixing bowl with eggs on top.
    Add eggs.
    Creamed butter, sugar, and egg mixture in a bowl with someone pouring vanilla extract into the bowl.
    Add vanilla.
    1. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder (or put them all in the bowl and stir them with a whisk). 
    Dry ingredients in a mixing bowl.
    Sift dry ingredients.
    1. Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the ½ cup buttermilk.
    Buttermilk being added to the creamed sugar mixture.
    Alternate adding buttermilk and four mixture.
    1. Using a fork, crush ½ cup blueberries and then mix them into the batter.
    2. Pour the remaining whole berries in mixture and gently stir to mix in.
    Fresh blueberries being mixed into the muffin batter.
    Add crushed and whole blueberries.
    1. Line a 12 cup standard muffin tin with paper liners or an 8-cup jumbo muffin tin, and fill the prepared muffin cups with batter. For standard muffins, we fill the batter ¾ full. For jumbo muffins, we like to fill the entire muffin tin, to allow bigger “muffin tops”.

    To make it easier to fill the muffin cups, pour batter into a zip top bag. Seal and cut a small (but big enough a blueberry can fit through) hole in the corner of the bag. Now, you can “pipe” the batter in to each muffin liner. You could also use an ice cream scoop to scoop the batter into the muffin liners.

    12 muffin liners in a muffin pan.
    Line a muffin tin with 8 or 12 liners.
    Muffin liners in a muffin tin with batter in them.
    Fill with batter.
    1. Sprinkle the tops of the muffins with the 3 teaspoons of sugar and bake at 375 degrees for about 30-35 minutes.
    2. Remove the muffins from the tin and allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes. Enjoy a fresh-baked muffin with a cold glass of milk or a fresh cup of coffee! Or, take it to the next level and whip up a batch of flavored butter to spread on top!
    Baked buttermilk blueberry muffins in a muffin tin.
    Bake 30-35 mins.

    Substitutions

    Need to make a substitution? We’ve got you covered!

    • Fresh blueberries – if you don’t have fresh blueberries, frozen berries will work just as well! You can stir them in right from frozen, no thawing required.
    • Buttermilk substitute -if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own buttermilk! Simply stir ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into your ½ cup of milk and let it sit for 5 mins so it can curdle slightly.
    • Butter – if you’d like to use salted butter instead of unsalted, simply decrease the salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon salt. You can also use margarine in place of butter.

    Variations

    Even though these buttermilk blueberry muffins are fantastic just as they are, we totally understand that sometimes you have the urge to play around with a recipe and make it your own. Here are a few suggestions you can try if you are feeling creative!

    • Add more fruit – If you want to add more than just fresh blueberries, you can add cherries, strawberries, and/or raspberries to this recipe. If you do choose to add extra fruit, make sure it's chopped and then fold it in with the blueberries. This is a great way to use up any fruit that may be aging quickly!
    • Get nutty – if you’re like me and you love nuts in baking, stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans when you stir in the blueberries.

    Storage

    For the best results, store these delicious muffins uncovered for 2-3 days. If you store them in an airtight container, the muffins can become a little soggy after a day or two. 

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    How can I make my muffins lighter and fluffy?

    There are a few key things you can do to achieve light and fluffy muffins. The first is make sure your eggs and oil are at room temperature before combining with the other ingredients. When at room temperature, it allows the batter to trap air and expand while baking. In addition to that, baking powder allows baked goods rise in the oven. When your muffins expand and rise in the oven, they come out light and fluffy!

    If I don’t have buttermilk, what can I use?

    If you don’t have buttermilk like the recipe calls for, you can make your own buttermilk! Simply stir ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into your ½ cup of milk and let it sit for 5 mins so it can curdle slightly.

    Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh in this recipe?

    If you don’t have fresh blueberries, frozen will work just as well! You can stir them in right from frozen, no thawing required.

    Related Recipes

    If you love all things blueberry, then you’ll also love these blueberry granola bars or these:

    • Blueberry waffles on a plate, drenched in syrup.
      Blueberry Waffles Recipe
    • Blueberry Pancakes
      Easy Blueberry Pancakes
    • Blueberry turnovers with a powdered sugar and milk glaze.
      Blueberry Turnovers Recipe
    • Strawberry chocolate muffins on cooling rack.
      Strawberry Chocolate Muffins

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    A buttermilk blueberry muffin cut in half with butter on one half.
    Print Pin
    5 from 7 votes

    Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins

    Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins: These fluffy, moist buttermilk muffins are made from scratch and are full of fresh blueberries, making them the perfect snack or brunch menu addition! 
    Course Breakfast, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 35 minutes minutes
    Total Time 50 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 muffins
    Calories 248kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
    • ¾ cups white granulated sugar `
    • ½ cup brown sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2 cups flour
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • ½ cup buttermilk
    • 2 cups blueberries washed, drained, and picked over
    • 3 teaspoons coarse sugar like this one

    Instructions

    • Heat oven to 375°.
    • Cream the butter and ¾ cup white sugar and ½ cup brown sugar.
    • Add the eggs, beating well, then add vanilla and mix in.
    • Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder (or put them all in a bowl and stir them with a whisk).
    • Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk.
    • Using a fork, crush ½ cup blueberries and then mix them into the batter.
    • Pour the remaining whole berries in mixture and gently stir to mix in.
    • Line a 12 cup standard muffin tin with cupcake liners or an 8-cup jumbo muffin tin, and fill with batter. (See notes below for an easy way to pour batter in to liners.)
      For standard muffins, we fill the batter ¾ full. For jumbo muffins, we like to fill the entire muffin tin, to allow a bigger "muffin top".
    • Sprinkle the 3 teaspoons sugar on top of each of the muffins and bake at 375 degrees for about 30-35 minutes.
    • Remove the muffins from the tin and allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes.

    Video

    Notes

    STORAGE: For the best results, store these muffins uncovered for 2-3 days. If you store them in an airtight container, the muffins can become a little soggy after a day or two. 
    NOTES: To make it easier to fill the muffin cups, pour batter into a zip top bag. Seal and cut a small (but big enough a blueberry can fit through) hole in the corner of the bag. Now, you can “pipe” the batter in to each muffin liner. You could also use an ice cream scoop to scoop the batter into the muffin liners. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1muffin | Calories: 248kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 112mg | Potassium: 137mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 266IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 1mg

    Zesty Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

    June 1, 2022

    ingredients in bowl for zesty Italian pasta salad

    Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: This super easy recipe is made using any type of pasta you prefer, a few other simple ingredients, and Zesty Italian dressing!

    You know we love salad recipes around here right? Well this one is at the top of our favorites list for sure! And if you’re an overall fan of pasta salads then you’ll especially love this shrimp pasta salad!

    Post originally published in 2017 – Updated in June of 2022!

    If you need a little something to go along with this pasta salad, these Hot Italian Sliders would pair amazingly with this!

    Pasta Salad Recipe – Cold, Italian Style and SO Easy

    I’m sharing how to make pasta salad, the super easy and delicious way!

    It not only looks gorgeous as a side dish with all of the pops of color, but it is packed with TONS of flavor.

    Plus, in “slightly homemade” and Fantabulosity fashion, this side dish recipe is quick and oh so easy to whip up for a weeknight meal. Another quick and easy option is this cowboy pasta salad that also comes together quickly and easily.

    Cold Pasta Salad

    A nice cold, flavorful pasta salad is a side dish that is PERFECT for a summer bbq. (Like I served at our Backyard BBQ Party!) But I must admit, no matter what time of year it is, it’s quite delicious any time of year, paired with some of main course, and one of my favorite steak sides!

    Plus, with it being a cold pasta salad recipe, that means NO cooking, and very little prep! One of my favorite recipe combinations!

    Italian Pasta Salad

    When I started experimenting with this pasta salad, I was craving an Italian pasta salad. The thought of mixing together herbs with oils and vinegar crossed my mind, but then that sounded WAY too time consuming and fancy for this momma. So when I eyed the Zesty Italian salad dressing in my pantry, I knew it was exactly what this Italian pasta salad needed!

    Then, the addition of the cute little pepperoni and mozzarella helped tie in the Italian theme as well.

    But the combo of flavors with the red pepper, banana peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach rounding off the rest of it, is just what this cold pasta salad needed!

    Tip for Pasta Salad Recipes:

    When I’m making pasta salads, or ANY salad that has tomatoes in it (like one of my favorites: My Tomato Mozzarella and Avocado Salad), PLEASE don’t make this ahead of time and chill it. Now, if it makes life so much easier to… then that’s ok, go ahead. But the refrigeration of the tomatoes causes them to lose SO much flavor. But not only that, the pasta will soak up the dressing and it begins to lose that punch of flavor too.

    What about left overs?  Well save them… I do. But if you have any extra Italian dressing laying around to add more to your left overs, that helps a ton!

    Mason Jar Pasta Salad

    I couldn’t help but to also show you how I assemble the pasta salad in to a jar, when I’m making it to-go, to deliver to family and friends, or when you need an easy picnic food idea. The presentation of the rainbow layer of colors is my all-time favorite.

    Here’s the step by step layering I do when making this Italian Pasta Salad for a care package!

    Finish off the jar with a cute little ribbon and all they have to do is dump it out in to a bowl, stir and serve to their family!

    4 image collage of pasta salad in jar
    Steps 1-4
    4 image collage of zesty italian pasta salad recipe
    Steps 5-8
    2 image collage of pasta salad in mason jar
    9-10

    Love Easy Side Dishes?

    If you love easy side dishes, then you’ll LOVE the others here on the blog. Check out more easy side dishes and pin all of those that you love to your Pinterest board for when you need them!

    Recipe

    ingredients in bowl for zesty Italian pasta salad
    Print Pin
    4.73 from 18 votes

    Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

    Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: This super easy recipe is made using any type of pasta you prefer, a few other simple ingredients, and Zesty Italian dressing!
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine Italian
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 8 minutes minutes
    Total Time 13 minutes minutes
    Servings 5 servings
    Calories 871kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 lb bowtie pasta
    • 1 16-ounce bottle zesty Italian dressing
    • 5 ounces cherry tomatoes sliced
    • 1 cup sliced banana peppers
    • 5 ounces mini pepperoni’s
    • 8 ounces of mozzerella pearls
    • 2 cups chopped spinach
    • 1 cup finely diced red onion

    Instructions

    • Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions.
    • Drain pasta and rinse in cold water until pasta is fully cooled.
    • Mix the past together with all of the remaining ingredients.
    • Serve!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 871kcal | Carbohydrates: 86g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 1763mg | Potassium: 635mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 1690IU | Vitamin C: 33.3mg | Calcium: 293mg | Iron: 2.8mg

    Beautiful Walk-in Pantry Organization Ideas

    May 31, 2022

    walk in pantry organization ideas

    Walk-in Pantry Organization Ideas: Tips for making a beautiful and organized pantry for easy access to your dry goods and pantry items.

    See links below to all of the items I used to organize this pantry!

    white pantry shelves with organized items
    Walk-in Pantry Organization Tips

    Keeping the pantry organized in our busy home is a great way to stay on top of meal planning and be able to keep track of the food items that we have on hand, especially when it’s time for a trip to the grocery store!


    When planning out the system for this pantry makeover in our home, I wanted to keep things affordable, yet stylish at the same time. It’s also a very real space in our home, with little kids, so using products like lazy susans, clear containers, and baskets makes these easily accessible, especially with deep shelves, was super important.

    You will also love these other organization ideas!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    What can I use to organize my pantry?

    When it comes to pantry storage, there are specific tips that I have that work for the pantries I’ve organized over the years:

    (See the full “how-to” card below to print and use as a guide for your own pantry organization!)

    • Lazy Susans: These can be really helpful for reaching items in the back of the shelf, especially with deep shelving.
    • Clear Containers: Using these or clear bins for certain products is a great idea, so you can see in without having to open or pull out the container.
    • Glass Jars: They provide such a classy look and also allow you to see in!
    • Labels: I used pre-printed labels for most of the products and I absolutely love this set! You can also use a label maker or chalkboard labels!
    • Spice Racks: Placing spices, canned goods, and other small jars/bottle-type items are KEY for deep shelves. This way items aren’t hidden and you can utilize height!
    • Baskets and Crates: You can use various sizes and types but they work fantastic for keeping similar items all in one place!
    • Can Risers: Sometimes you can use the same riser for canned goods and spices! Just be sure to check your measurements, and make sure the spice rack is big enough to hold a large canned good.
    Wide angle view of white pantry organization
    Walk In Pantry Ideas

    Walk-in Pantry Shelving

    Since we have a white pantry, the walk-in pantry shelving is made of wooden shelves that are painted white wood, on white walls. We’ve had wire shelves in the past but wire shelving allows items to fall through and smaller items may have a hard time balancing on the wires.

    So if you’re building or doing a pantry makeover, I highly recommend using wooden shelves if possible. (Although if you have wire shelves, the baskets and crates come in even handier.) You can also use a shelf liner though if you have struggled with items falling through the wire shelving.

    small appliances and white plates in pantry
    Small appliances & Dishes

    Deep Pantry Organization

    How do you organize a walk in pantry with deep shelves?

    The items I used for this walk-in pantry work lovely for deep shelves. The baskets and crates can pull out, so you can not only reach items in the back easily but so you can carry them to your kitchen if you’re baking and cooking something and want to use a few things at the same time!

    I also make sure to only put larger containers towards the back, make sure they’re full of items that I don’t have to use often, and that they’re not super heavy. (I don’t want to have to pull out a really heavy item from far back.)

    Organized pantry shelves
    Organized Pantry Shelving

    Dry Foods and Goods

    Mostly everything, when it comes to food in a pantry, is considered “dry foods” but depending on the dry good, and how it’s packaged, varies on how to store and organize it.

    Expert Tip:

    If you purchase dry goods that come in small, individual packages, such as:

    • hot chocolate
    • oatmeal
    • granola bars

    Those look best, unboxed and stored in their own basket or crate. (As long as the individual item is labeled. If not labeled, (such as cake mixes) I leave those in the box, if you can’t see what the item is. If it’s something such as “saltines” you can leave those in the box, or store the sleeves. Whatever you prefer!)

    Packaged mixes in white baskets
    Packaged & Boxed Goods

    What you see in the photo above:

    • Bread Box (bottom right) – this has tortillas in it currently because I simply needed to make a trip to the grocery store!
    • White Baskets – These are PERFECT for small packaged items such as oatmeal, cake mixes, etc. You can see through the baskets to see what’s inside of them but they hold items really well!
    small clear containers with labels
    Clear containers

    What you see in the photo above:

    • Small clear containers with white lids: These are smaller but hold items such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, candy, and nuts, PERFECTLY!
    • Labels: This is an amazing set of sticker labels for just about anything you’d store in your pantry!
    Flour and pasta organization ideas
    Flour, Sugar and Pasta

    What you see in the photo above:

    • Jars with Wooden Lids: I found mine at Ikea and Amazon. The spaghetti and small jars with animal and mini Ritz crackers can be found on Amazon. The larger glass jars (pancake mix and bread flour canisters) were found at Ikea but similar can be found here!
    • Flour and Sugar Canisters: I found the flour canister and the sugar canister at Target!
    • Smaller glass bowls with wooden lids: the smaller bowls (that are holding the cocoa powder, chia seeds, corn starch, and flax seeds) were from Ikea but similar can be found here! (They’re 22 oz. and the glass canisters I used are 20 oz.)
    • Basket for plastic wear: I LOVE putting our disposable forks, spoons, and knives in this basket! It makes them so accessible and looks better than the boxes/bags that they come in!

    Snacks and Paper Goods

    Wooden Crates on Shelves
    Wood Crates

    In the photo above:

    • Large Wooden Crates (On the bottom): I used the large crates to store paper goods such as paper towels, paper plates/bowls, and solo and coffee cups.
    • Open Crate (Bottom Left): I used the same crate here as I did for the “bread box” above, to store cookies in!
    • Small Wooden Crates (Top left): These are the perfect size to hold snack bars, fruit snacks, and more! Something to keep in mind when organizing snacks in a pantry is that keeping HEALTHY snacks on a low shelf, with easy access, can come in handy so the kids aren’t always asking for a snack.
    • Small wire basket (top right): This basket holds hot chocolate mixes wonderfully! I made sure to keep this in a “drink” section of the pantry.
    • Clear, tall container with white lid: This is a taller version of the clear containers I used above for baking chips and dried fruit. I stored tea bags in this container.
    • Small glass rectangular container with wood lid: Sometimes we have drink mix packets (Liquid Iv’s powdered mix, etc.) that we store in here. I found this at Ikea but you can find a similar set of them, here!
    Pantry shelves with organized canned goods and spices
    Spices and Canned Goods

    Spices, Canned Goods, and Cereal

    • Large Wooden Crates (on the top shelf): I use these to store items that we don’t need very often and that need to stay in their boxes/bags. (Such as candy, popcorn kernels, popcorn fixings, saltines, etc.) I chose solid crates for these items so you can’t see in.
      There really isn’t a need to see inside them, since we don’t use the items very often, and they usually look messy inside
    • Wooden Can and Spice Jar Risers: I absolutely LOVE these. They do make wire risers (a lot like pantry wire shelving) but I loved the wood look, so they’d match the crates and baskets.
    • Spice Jars and Labels: Use code: FANTAB10 to get 10% off your own! The second I saw these, I knew I had to have them. Not only are they beautiful but I loved buying them from the place that I did because they create custom labels for you! (Sometimes when you buy a set, you only get so many labels and they may not have a specific spice that you need!) If you need help deciding which spices to put in your pantry, you’ll love where I share the top 20 spices to have in your kitchen!
    • Baking Soda Container: I love OXO products but wasn’t too fond of the prices so I limited what items I used. I like to keep my baking soda and brown sugar (see next) fresh as can be so I was willing to spend a bit more for these.
    • Brown Sugar Container: Like the baking soda above, brown sugar is something I wanted to keep fresh with an air-tight seal. I also use this brown sugar keeper to keep things fresh!
    • Cereal Containers: These are AMAZING! They not only look so much nicer than cereal boxes but the seals on these are tight and keep our cereal fresh. (I bought extras because sometimes we have more cereal than some and I also use them to store marshmallows!)
    • Chip Crate (Bottom right corner): Same as the bread box used above, this is a crate that’s shaped in a way that it can hold items that won’t roll out but that’s open in the front so it’s easy to reach in and grab what you need! (We put this on a low shelf because our kiddos like chips!)
    • Large Baskets (not pictured in this photo but they are visible in the first image in this article): I needed something to store overflow products in. Meaning, if I have a little flour leftover, or an extra jar of peanut butter, I store them in the “overflow” bins.
      TIP: These really help keep clutter down on the shelves, and I always know to check the basket when I run out of the item on the shelves. When I pull the extra out of the basket, I know to add it to my grocery list.
    Sprinkles and spice mixes on shelves
    Baking goods & spices mixes

    What you see in the photo above:

    • Lazy Susan: I have two of these, one in each corner on the same shelf. On one lazy susan I stored condiments such as BBQ sauce, dressing, etc. On the other (in the photo above) I stored sweet condiments such as peanut butter and syrup.
    • Wood Riser: Just like I used for canned goods and spices, this riser comes in handy for items such sprinkles, honey, canned frosting.
    • Small Crate: Same as above, for the snacks, we use the small crate to hold our keto supplies.
    • Woven Rectangular Basket: I used this same basket above for the plastic utensils. In this space, I used it to hold sauce and seasoning packets.
    Baskets of oil and produce
    Oil and produce

    Oil and Produce

    On the floor, underneath my small appliances, I like to keep oils and produce on the bottom so it’s cool and dark.

    • White Mesh Basket: This is what I use to store my vegetable oil, large jugs of olive oil, etc.
    • White Metal Basket: When I have potatoes, I usually store them in the basket you see but all I had was one lonely onion when I took this photo. This basket works great for produce that needs to stay in a dark, cool area.

    Dishes and Cookware

    white dishes on shelves
    White dishes

    White Dishware: I didn’t use anything to store the dishes in, simply because they’re too big and they look pretty when they’re stacked an organized way!

    small appliances on white shelf
    Small appliances
    Instant Pot and air fryer on shelf
    Instant Pot and Air Fryer

    Small Appliances (above): All along the bottom shelf (hidden behind the door, when opened) I store all of my small appliances. They’re handier this way than storing in a deep cabinet and when the door is open, you can’t see them anyway so it works out!

    Cookie cutters and cloth napkins on shelf
    Cookie cutters and cloth napkins

    What you see in the photo above:

    • White Linen Basket: I use this basket on the left to hold my cookie cutters simply because I loved the look of it. But you could also use a woven basket.
    • White Wire Basket: I use this basket on the right, to store fabric napkins and they fit perfectly!
    apron hanging on door
    Aprons

    Apron Organization

    I LOVE a good apron. So I like to keep them handy for when I’m cooking, so hanging them on the back of the door with a Command Hook, works for me! You could also use the back of the pantry door if you’re low on pantry space, for more storage if you have a small pantry, and use a door rack. (Or even a shoe organizer to hold spices, if you have very little cabinet space!)

    How to Organize a Pantry

    Here are my tips for getting started, for walk-in pantry organization ideas, or any type of pantry, really!

    1. Start by making a list of “categories” that your pantry will have. For instance, will you have a “baking” section? Or what about a “cereal” or “chips” section? Making a brain dump of all the items you’d like to store in your pantry is a great place to start!
    2. Next, measure your shelves. Go ahead and take a photo of the pantry too, so if you’re out and about shopping and you see some amazing containers, you’ll be able to refer back to the photo to see if it would work in that space. Carry a mini tape measure in your purse so you can measure something at the store if need be. This little gadget also comes in SO handy when shopping for home furnishings.

      Extra tip: Love organizing as much as me? Jot down the measurements in your Trello account so you can easily access them while you’re out. Or, upload a photo of your pantry to an app on your photo and with text, add the measurements of the shelves and spaces, right on the photo, in the space.
    3. Draw it out! If you’re a sketcher (don’t worry, you don’t have to make it look pretty) draw some lines on the paper, resembling your pantry, and write in where you think each category should go.
    sketched drawing of pantry organization
    Sketch it!
    1. Start buying products! I’ve linked to all of the items I’ve used (under each photo above) but I’ve also linked to them all in one spot to make things easy for you:

      Shop the items I bought from Amazon!
      Shop the items I bought from Target!


      I also know that sometimes things are unavailable or not going to work for your pantry. So don’t feel like you can’t get one thing at a time, here and there. It’s a work-in-progress, and even though I’ve shared my “final” pantry reveal with you, I’m sure I’ll continue to add and change things as time goes on.

    Common Questions & FAQs

    How do I arrange my walk in pantry?

    It’s key to keep similar items in categories, similar to the way grocery stores have items organized. Baking supplies, canned goods, snacks, etc. are typically all in the same aisle so the same organization can take place in your pantry!

    How can I keep my kitchen pantry organized?

    The best way to keep your pantry organized once it’s all in place, is to remember (and encourage family members to remember) that everything has a “home” inside of the pantry. Nothing should be left out of crates, baskets, off risers, etc.

    How to Keep Track of Expiration Dates on Unpackaged Items

    If you remove food/products from its original packaging to have a more organized pantry, a trick to use is to either cut the expiration date out of the packaging and tape it to the underside of the kid or the container. (Or, use a piece of clear tape and write the date on the tape.) You can also use a dry erase marker on clear glass/plastic containers.

    If you need to declutter and organize your life, make sure to also check out my free, 5-day decluttering challenge!

    Recipe

    How to Organize a Walk-in Pantry

    walk in pantry organization ideas

    Walk-in Pantry Organization Ideas: Tips for making a beautiful and organized pantry for easy access to your dry goods and pantry items.

    You can find the links to all of the items I used to organize my pantry, in the instructions of this card or in the body of the article.

    Active Time 1 hour
    Total Time 1 hour
    Difficulty Easy

    Materials

    • Lazy Susans
    • Clear Containers or Clear bins
    • Glass Jars
    • Labels
    • Spice Racks
    • Baskets
    • Crates
    • Can Risers

    Instructions

    1. Start by making a list of "categories" that your pantry will have. For instance, will you have a "baking" section? Or what about a "cereal" or "chips" section? Making a brain dump of all the items you'd like to store in your pantry is a great place to start!
    2. Next, measure your shelves. Go ahead and take a photo of the pantry too, so if you're out and about shopping and you see some amazing containers, you'll be able to refer back to the photo to see if it would work in that space. Carry a mini tape measure in your purse so you can measure something at the store if need be. This little gadget also comes in SO handy when shopping for home furnishings.Extra tip: Love organizing as much as me? Jot down the measurements in your Trello account so you can easily access them while you're out. Or, upload a photo of your pantry to an app on your photo and with text, add the measurements of the shelves and spaces, right on the photo, in the space.
    3. Draw it out! If you're a sketcher (don't worry, you don't have to make it look pretty) draw some lines on the paper, resembling your pantry, and write in where you think each category should go.
    4. Start buying products! I've linked to all of the items I've used (under each photo above) but I've also linked to them all in one spot to make things easy for you:
      Shop the items I bought from Amazon!
      Shop the items I bought from Target!
    © Jessica

    Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies

    May 27, 2022

    A plate of funfetti cake mix cookies.

    Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies: These brightly colored funfetti cake mix cookies are so quick and easy to make! A box of funfetti cake mix, oil, eggs, sprinkles, vanilla, and 30 minutes are all you need to create these delicious cookies!

    Quick Overview: 5 minutes of prep time, 20 minutes of chill time, 8-10 minutes of cook time.

    A stack of funfetti cake mix cookies.

    Cake mix cookies are the absolute best because not only are they delicious, they are also incredibly quick and easy to whip up! They are also made with ingredients that you can easily keep on hand, so they are the perfect recipe to whip up for last-minute guests. We’ve even made peanut butter cookies with a cake mix!

    These funfetti cake mix cookies would make the perfect spring or summer cookies because they are so fun and brightly colored! They would also be adorable at birthday parties, baby showers, Mother’s Day brunch, or even for Valentine’s Day!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why You’ll Love This Easy Cookie Recipe

    Quick: You can whip these cookies up in just 30 minutes!

    Easy: Because these are made with a cake mix, they are the absolute easiest thing to make…seriously! One bowl, five ingredients, stir it all together and roll it into balls. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

    Delicious: These cookies aren’t only quick & easy, but they are also super tasty! They are soft and chewy and everything you want from a cookie. If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, this easy recipe is for you!

    Perfect for Little Bakers

    This funfetti cookie recipe is the perfect one to make with your little bakers because it’s super simple to make! They’ll love stirring together the batter, rolling out the dough, and adding all those rainbow sprinkles! Making these alongside other fun cookies like these rocky road cookies that also use a cake mix, would be so fun for them too!

    Ingredients for Funfetti cake cookies

    You only need 5 simple ingredients for these cookies, and you probably have most (if not all) of them in your house right now! If you don’t, you can find all of these at your local grocery store.

    Ingredients for confetti cake mix cookies with labels on the image.
    Ingredients

    You can find the complete list of ingredients and directions can be found in the recipe card below.

    • 1 box funfetti cake mix
    • ⅓ cup canola oil
    • 2 eggs
    • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons colored sprinkles, divided
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla

    How to make these easy funfetti cake mix cookies

    1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet and set aside. 
    2. In a large bowl, add the funfetti cake mix, canola oil, eggs, 2 tablespoons colored sprinkles, and vanilla. Stir with a rubber spatula until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
    3. Cover the bowl in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
    Funfetti cake mix cookie dough.
    Combine ingredients, refrigerate 20 mins.
    1. Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and scoop the cake batter cookie dough into 1- to 1 ½-inch balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and lightly press down to "flatten" the tops a little bit. 
    2. With the remaining ¼ cup of sprinkles, add them to the slightly flattened tops of the cookies.
    Uncooked balls of funfetti cake mix cookies on a parchment lined baking sheet.
    Scoop dough, add sprinkles.
    1. Place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. For the perfect cookies, do not overbake.
    2. Remove the baking tray from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a cooling rack before serving. Warning: cake mix cookies usually have a soft texture, so be careful when transferring them to the cooling rack!
    Baked funfetti cake mix cookies on a parchment lined baking sheet.
    Bake 8-10 mins.
    Funfetti cake mix cookies cooling on a wire rack.
    Cool on a wire rack.

    I’m a huge fan of cake mix cookies because they are the easiest cookies to make!

    If you enjoyed these easy cake mix cookies, you should try our other easy cake mix cookie recipes! Check out the brownie mix cookies and red velvet cake mix cookies on the blog.

    I’m a firm believer that you should always have a box of cake mix on hand. Not only can you use it as the box directs, you can also use it for recipes like the cake mix cookies we mentioned above and for other quick, easy, and delicious dessert recipes! Our pineapple sunshine cake, caramel apple dump cake, and lemon cake mix brownies are easy recipes also made using dry cake mix!

    Substitutions & Variations

    Want to mix things up or need something switched out? Here are some of our favorite suggestions for switching up these colorful cookies.

    • Canola Oil – instead of canola oil, you can use vegetable oil, your favorite oil, or even melted butter.
    • Eggs – instead of eggs, you could use a “cornstarch egg” as a binding agent. Check out this tutorial for more info.
    • Cake Mix – they won’t be funfetti cake mix cookies anymore, but you could absolutely replace the funfetti cake mix with your favourite flavor and create a whole new cookie.
    • Holidays – if you are making these cookies for a specific occasion or holiday, you can add sprinkles that match the theme! Green sprinkles on top for St. Patrick’s Day, red and green for Christmas, red and white for Valentine’s Day…

    Storage

    Store your confetti cake mix cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days.

    You can also freeze these chewy funfetti cookies in an airtight, freezer safe container for up to a month!

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Is Funfetti cake mix the same as white cake mix?

    Funfetti is a white cake mix with sprinkles added in! You can use a funfetti cake mix or a white cake mix and add extra sprinkles to make these easy funfetti cookies!

    Is confetti and Funfetti the same thing?

    Funfetti is technically a trademark of Pillsbury, so yes a funfetti cake mix and confetti cake mix are just the same thing by different names. We used the terms funfetti cookies and confetti cookies interchangeably in this recipe because they are essentially the same thing. Some other brands have their own name for white cake with sprinkles (like Betty Crocker rainbow bit cake mix), but any cake mix with colourful sprinkles will do.

    Can I add more sprinkles to Funfetti cake mix?

    Absolutely! You can add extra sprinkles to the batter to your preference.

    🍪 More Cookie Recipes

    If you love cookie recipes, you’ll also love these Key Lime Pie Crumbl Copycat cookies!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    A plate of funfetti cake mix cookies.
    Print Pin
    5 from 11 votes

    Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies

    Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies: These brightly coloured funfetti cake mix cookies are so quick and easy to make! A box of funfetti cake mix, oil, eggs, sprinkles, vanilla and 30 minutes are all you need to create these delicious cookies!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
    Chill Time 20 minutes minutes
    Total Time 35 minutes minutes
    Servings 22 cookies
    Calories 115kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 box funfetti cake mix
    • ⅓ cup canola oil
    • 2 eggs
    • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons colored sprinkles divided
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet and set aside. 
    • In a large bowl, add the funfetti cake mix, canola oil, eggs, 2 tablespoons colored sprinkles, and vanilla. Stir with a rubber spatula until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
    • Cover the bowl in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
    • Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and scoop the cookie dough into 1- to 1 ½-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and lightly press down to "flatten" the tops a little bit. 
    • With the remaining ¼ cup of rainbow sprinkles, add them to the slightly flattened tops of the cookies.
    • Place the baking tray in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. For the perfect cookies, do not overbake.
    • Remove the baking tray from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Warning: cake mix cookies usually have a soft texture, so be careful when transferring them to the cooling rack!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store your confetti cake mix cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days. You can also freeze these chewy funfetti cookies in an airtight, freezer safe container for up to a month!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 115kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 132mg | Potassium: 6mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg

    4th of July Rice Krispie Treats

    May 24, 2022

    A 4th of July Rice Krispie star with layers fo red, white and blue Rice Krispie treat!

    4th of July Rice Krispie Treats: This patriotic dessert is easy to make, super delicious, and tons of fun to serve at your Fourth of July get-together (or anytime)! Our American Flag Pizza Dessert is another fun recipe to make for the holiday too!

    A stack of Rice Krispie treats shaped like stars that clearly show three layers - red, white, and blue.

    I love a good Rice Krispie treat, but I love it even more when it’s themed to the occasion. This red, white, and blue dessert is the perfect treat to serve for the Fourth of July, along with these 4th of July cupcakes of course!

    Rice Krispie treats are an easy, no bake dessert to make and they are so fun to customize. This easy Fourth of July dessert combines three layers of this tasty, nostalgic rice treat and then cuts it into a star for an extra wow factor.

    Serve them at your backyard barbecue, your lunch picnic, or any old time! Your party guests are sure to love these Fourth of July Rice Krispie Treats, especially if this 4th of July Puppy Chow is sitting next to them too!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    Fun & Festive: This red, white, and blue dessert is patriotic and the perfect dessert to serve at your Fourth of July barbecue or get together. See our substitutions & variations section for ideas of other holidays you could make this for!

    Quick & Easy: Although this recipe takes a little bit of time because it has three layers, it’s still a quick and easy dessert to put together.

    No Bake: You won’t have to heat up the oven and the house to make this yummy no bake dessert. And if you’re making it for the Fourth of July, which is pretty dang warm in some parts of the country, that’s a big plus!

    Delicious: I think most of us have had a Rice Krispie treat before, and for good reason. They are delicious!

    What is the Fourth of July?

    Here in the USA, July 4th is Independence Day. This is a federal holiday commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the United States, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

    For patriotic holidays like July 4th, it’s common for Americans to celebrate with friends and family. Often these celebrations involve food that is themed after our nation’s flag (which is red, white, and blue and has both stars and stripes on it) as a show of patriotic pride.

    How do you make 4th of July rice crispy treats?

    You only need 5 simple ingredients (that you probably have in your pantry) to make this super fun treat!

    Ingredients for 4th of July Rice Krispie treats laid out on a counter with labels on each.

    Ingredients

    • ¾ cup butter divided
    • 15 cups mini marshmallows
    • 12 cups of Rice Krispies, divided (or any crispy rice cereal)
    • 1½ teaspoons clear vanilla extract divided
    • red & blue food coloring (8-9 red drops, 6 blue)

    You can find a complete list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card below.

    Instructions

    1. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.     
    2. In a large pot, start to melt ¼ cup butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 5 cups of marshmallows to the butter, stirring often. Once the marshmallows are almost melted, turn the heat to low. 
    A 9x13 pan on a counter.
    Prepare the 9×13.
    Marshmallows in a large pot with melted butter.
    Melt butter, add marshmallows
    1. Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla and the red food coloring, a few drops at a time, and mix well. If needed, continue to add food coloring until desired color. Remove from heat. 
    2. Mix in 4 cups of the Rice Krispie cereal. Stir until the cereal is well coated. 

    Note: The marshmallow cools down quickly, so be prepared to mix in the cereal immediately after removing from the heat, then quickly add them to the pan before cooling down too much and getting very sticky. 

    Melted marshmallows and butter with red food colouring added in.
    Add food coloring.
    Rice Krispies on top of the red melted marshmallow mixture.
    Stir in rice cereal.
    1. Pour into the parchment-lined pan. Spread evenly while pressing down firmly, and smooth the top using the back of a buttered spoon. 
    2. Repeat the same process, leaving this second batch white. Pour the white batch on top of the red layer. Press down and smooth evenly.
    Red Rice Krispie treats being pressed into the 9x13.
    Spread in pan.
    A white layer of Rice Krispies on top of the red layer in the 9x13 pan.
    Repeat with white layer.
    1. Repeat the process one last time with the blue food coloring. Place the blue Rice Krispie Treats on top of the white layer. Press firmly and smooth out the top layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature (will take about an hour). 
    2. Remove the treats from the pan, using a knife to cut around the edges if needed. Peel off the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. 
    Repeat with blue layer; cool.
    Remove from pan.
    1. Cut the red, white, and blue Rice Krispy treats into star shapes using a cookie cutter. If the cutter isn't deep enough to completely reach the bottom of the pan, create an indentation with the cutter to use as a stencil, and then cut it out completely using a knife. Be sure to spray your cookie cutter and/or knife with cooking spray so the Rice Krispie doesn’t stick to them.
    2. Serve & enjoy!
    A star shaped cookie cutter about to press into the Rice Krispie treat.
    Cut into stars.
    Several red, white, and blue star shaped Rice Krispie treats sitting on a counter.
    Serve and enjoy!

    Looking for more no bake desserts? Try this no bake cherry cheesecake or this 4th of July Dip! In fact, if you used a mixture of cherry pie filling and blueberry pie filling this could become another easy Fourth of July dessert!

    And since you’re looking for no bake recipes, why not whip up a batch of our amazing no bake cookies to have on hand? They’re a family favorite!

    Looking for more Fourth of July recipes and decorating ideas? Check out the Fourth of July section on the blog for red donuts, a red, white and blue themed dip bar, and more!

    Substitutions & Variations

    Missing an ingredient? Looking for other ways to enjoy these American Rice Krispie Treats? Try these suggestions…

    • Butter – I love the flavor of butter, but you can use margarine in this recipe if you need.
    • Marshmallows – Store brand marshmallows and old, dried out marshmallows don’t work as well for this recipe. Make sure you use good quality marshmallows, and pick up a fresh bag for the best results!
    • Other Holidays/Occasions – The colored layers can be changed for any holiday or occasion. Make these for Christmas (red & green), St. Patrick's Day (green), Valentine's Day (red & pink), etc. 
    • Add Sprinkles or Mix-Ins – Before your top layer cools, quickly press some sprinkles or other fun mix-ins into it for a fun decoration! You could also stir sprinkles/mix-ins into the marshmallow cereal mixture before you press it into the pan. For this recipe, you could use red, white, and blue sprinkles or red, white, and blue m&m. If you are making it for another holiday/occasion, use things that fit with that theme!

    Storage

    Store your star rice Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container on the counter for 2-3 days, or in the fridge for 4-5 days.

    You could also put these in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze them for up to a month. Rice Krispie treats keep well in the freezer.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Do you have to refrigerate rice krispie treats?

    No, it’s not necessary to refrigerate Rice Krispie Treats. If you need them to cool down faster you can chill them for a short while while they are setting, but otherwise, they can be stored at room temperature.

    How to keep rice krispies treats fresh?

    The absolute best way to keep these fresh is to make sure they are stored in an airtight container! If you are concerned about it, you can individually wrap each star in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container and this should ensure that they stay nice and soft/fresh until you are ready to eat them.

    What if I don’t have a star-shaped cookie cutter?

    If you don’t, don’t worry at all! This dessert will look just as great cut into squares, and you’ll still be able to see all three layers and colors that way.

    You could also make yourself a star-shaped template out of paper and cut around that with a knife to make your star-shaped treats.

    How do you make Rice Krispie treats more sticky and gooey?

    If you like your Rice Krispie treats a bit more on the gooey side (where they pull apart super easily and are more sticky to eat), simply add an additional cup of marshmallows to each of the batches you are making (the red, the plain, and the blue).  

    Can I make these in the microwave?

    Technically, yes you can. In a large, microwave-safe bowl melt the butter in 30-second increments. Once melted, add your marshmallows and continue to heat in 30-second increments (stirring often). When your butter and marshmallows are melted completely, stir in the vanilla and food coloring and quickly stir in the cereal. From there the recipe continues as it is written.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    A 4th of July Rice Krispie star with layers fo red, white and blue Rice Krispie treat!
    Print Pin
    5 from 4 votes

    4th of July Rice Krispie Treats

    4th of July Rice Krispie Treats: This patriotic dessert is easy to make, super delicious, and tons of fun to serve at your Fourth of July get together (or anytime)!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 25 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
    COOL TIME 1 hour hour
    Total Time 1 hour hour 40 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 stars
    Calories 279kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • 3-inch star cookie cutter

    Ingredients

    • ¾ cup butter divided
    • 15 cups mini marshmallows
    • 12 cups crispy rice cereal divided (I used Rice Krispies)
    • 1½ teaspoons clear vanilla extract divided
    • red & blue food coloring (8-9 red drops, 6 blue)

    Instructions

    • Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.     
    • In a large pot, start to melt ¼ cup butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 5 cups of the mini marshmallows to the butter, stirring often. Once the marshmallows are almost melted, turn the heat to low.
    • Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla and the red food coloring, a few drops at a time, and mix well. If needed, continue to add food coloring until desired color. Remove from heat.
    • Mix in 4 cups of the cereal. Stir until the cereal is well coated.
    • Pour into the parchment lined pan. Spread evenly while pressing down firmly, and smooth the top using the back of a buttered spoon. 
    • Repeat the same process, leaving this second batch white. Pour the white batch on top of the red layer. Press down and smooth evenly.
    • Repeat the process one last time with the blue food coloring. Place on top of the white layer. Press firmly and smooth out the top layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature (will take about an hour). 
    • Remove the treats from the pan, using a knife to cut around the edges if needed. Peel off the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. 
    • Cut the treats into star shapes using a cookie cutter. If the cutter isn't deep enough to completely reach the bottom of the pan, create an indentation with the cutter to use as a stencil, and then cut it out completely using a knife. Be sure to spray your cookie cutter and/or knife with cooking spray so the Rice Krispie doesn't stick to them. 
    • Serve & enjoy!

    Notes

    NOTE: The marshmallow cools down quickly, so be prepared to mix in the cereal immediately after removing from the heat, then quickly add them to the pan before cooling down too much and getting very sticky. 
     
    STORAGE: Store your patriotic homemade Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container on the counter for 2-3 days, or in the fridge for 4-5 days. 
    You could also put these in an airtight, freezer safe container and freeze them for up to a month. Rice Krispie treats keep well in the freezer. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1star | Calories: 279kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 107mg | Potassium: 21mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 266IU | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 1mg

    Air Fryer Zucchini No Breading

    May 24, 2022

    sliced air fryer zucchini in white bowl

    Air Fryer Zucchini: An easy (and low carb) recipe without breading that is the perfect side dish to serve with dinner! Cut in to chips or fries & done in as little as 10 minutes!

    sliced, cooked air fryer zucchini in white bowl
    Air Fryer Zucchini

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    We have this air fried zucchini at LEAST 3 times a week and my family has NOT grown tired of this recipe yet! I’d say that’s a “win” since it’s one of the healthiest side dishes we’ve ever had here on Fantabulosity.

    When it comes to air fryer recipes, this one may just take the cake. It’s easy, it’s healthy and it’s so delicious that our guests will stop mid-bite and ask what we did to make this zucchini so delicious!

    More Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love:

    • Air Fryer Bacon
    • Hamburgers in the Air Fryer
    • Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    So without further ado… let’s get in to the details of how to make this zucchini so you can make it too!

    Ingredients

    ingredients for air fryer zucchini
    Ingredients

    If you’re a vegan, no fear… leave the parmesan cheese out, and simply only use the remainder of the ingredients to whip up this simple and delish veggie.

    What you’ll need:

    • Zucchini (I use two medium zucchini) for our family of four, but depending on the exact size of the “summer squash” — yep, it’s also a squash, a “medium” size can sometimes serve 5-6.)
    • 2 tablespoon olive oil
    • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt (Or more, if you’re the salty type — Woah…I simply mean “taste bud” wise friend, not personality-wise.)
    • A dash of black pepper, or to taste
    • ½ cup (or more if you’re the cheese-lover type) of shredded parmesan cheese

    NOTE: Am I flexible with the measurements of the ingredients? Yep. Why? Because this recipe is VERY forgiving and customizable to what you prefer. The good thing for you? When you’ve added in the oil, garlic salt, and pepper, give the zucchini a taste to see how the flavor is! Eating raw zucchini is a-ok!

    Zucchini in the Air Fryer, No Breading…

    Yep, you heard me. No breading needed/used here and you’re still going to love it, especially if you use the shredded parmesan cheese that can give this recipe a slight “toast” flavor to bring in what you may miss if you’re a diehard, breaded zucchini lover.

    How to Make Zucchini in the Air Fryer

    Ready to see just how easy this recipe is? Let’s get with it.

    Slice the Zucchini

    My family prefers for the zucchini to be sliced about a ¼ in. thick — again, very forgiving, so feel free to do thicker/thinner as you prefer. Just know that the cook time may need to adjust a bit.

    sliced zucchini on white cutting board
    Slice zucchini

    Slice the Zucchini Again

    If you want to make it just like yours truly, slice those circles in half again. Is this a “must”? Nope… we just prefer to have it cut like this.

    sliced zucchini in halves on white cutting board
    Slice again

    Oil and Season

    If you love the idea of a quick and clean kitchen, grab a Ziploc bag and pourr the zucchini inside.

    Add in the olive oil, garlic salt and pepper.

    Shake until all zucchini has been coated with the oil/seasoning mixture.

    sliced zucchini in plastic ziptop bag
    Place in bag

    If you prefer to mix in a bowl to save a bag, you can do so! OR, get really snazzy and just place the zucchini, oil, and seasonings right in the air fryer basket and stir inside until evenly coated! (You just don’t want most of your oil to drip down through the basket holes.)

    seasoned zucchini in bag
    Season zucchini

    How long to air fry the zuccini

    If you prefer to preheat your air fryer, go for it! I’m too impatient so I just like to cook it with the idea in mind that it may take the food I’m cooking a little longer than a recipe calls for.

    So with that said, I cook my zucchini at 400° for about 10 minutes and this leaves me with a semi-crunchy zucchini. My husband prefers a softer texture so sometimes I’ll leave it in a few minutes longer.

    NOTE: Keep in mind that the cook time may vary, depending on the power level of your air fryer. (Some air fryers can cook much differently than one another.) But the good thing with zucchini is that you can open up the air fryer and check it occasionally if you prefer. It won’t ruin the taste but may just let the heat escape and take a little longer.
    Experiment with your air fryer, zucchini texture preference and you’ll have it nailed down in no-time!

    Seasoned zucchini in air fryer
    Place in air fryer

    Add the Parmesan (If Desired)

    If you’re not looking for a vegan recipe, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese after the 10 minutes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to toast the cheese! So so good!

    parmesan cheese on top of zucchini
    Add parmesan

    Serve

    Serve right away with your favorite side dish or if you’re a rebel like me, eat it as a stand-alone dish whenever you’re cooking for one!

    Extra Cheese? Yes Please.

    If you feel ever so frisky, top with any extra or remaining shredded parmesan cheese just before serving for a pop of goodness.

    air fried zucchini slices in white bowl
    Ready to eat!

    What to Serve Zucchini With?

    If you know you want to make this zucchini as a side dish but are unsure of what main dish to serve alongside it… here are our favorites: this oven baked steak, roasted pork tenderloin and these salt & pepper chicken bites!

    If you find that you have a lot of zucchini on hand, you may want to try freezing it for later. This is a great tutorial on how to freeze zucchini!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    If you love to make zucchini many different ways, then you’ll also love these baked zucchini fries!

    Or, if you have a sweet tooth, then you’ll want to try this chocolate zucchini cake!

    Recipe

    sliced air fryer zucchini in white bowl
    Print Pin
    5 from 3 votes

    Air Fryer Zucchini

    Air Fryer Zucchini: An easy (and low carb) recipe that is the perfect side dish to serve with dinner! Cut in to chips or fries & done in as little as 10 minutes!
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 13 minutes minutes
    Total Time 18 minutes minutes
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 128kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • air fryer

    Ingredients

    • 2 medium zucchini
    • 2 tablespoon olive oil
    • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt or to taste
    • ⅛ teaspoon pepper or to taste
    • ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese optional

    Instructions

    • Slice zucchini in to ¼ in. slices (see notes if you prefer a different cut) and then slice in half again.
    • Place cut zucchini in to a ziptop bag or bowl and pour in olive oil, garlic salt and pepper.
    • Shake the bag until all of the zucchini is evenly coated.
    • Pour zucchini in to air fryer basket.
    • Cook zucchini at 400° for 10 minutes (see notes to ensure the zucchini reaches the "doneness" you prefer).
    • If you prefer to add shredded parmean cheese, this is the time to sprinkle on the cheese and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to melt /toast the cheese!

    Video

    Notes

    NOTE:
    We prefer to slice the zucchini in to ¼ inch circles (give/take) and then slice in half again. If you prefer to cut the zucchini in to “fries” that’s perfectly fine too!
    Keep in mind that the cook time may vary, depending on the power level of your air fryer. (Some air fryers can cook much differently than one another.) But the good thing with zucchini is that you can open up the air fryer and check it occasionally if you prefer. It won’t ruin the taste but may just let the heat escape and take a little longer.
    Experiment with your air fryer, zucchini texture preference and you’ll have it nailed down in no-time!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 128kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 354mg | Potassium: 267mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 294IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 164mg | Iron: 1mg

    Easy Butterscotch Brownies

    May 23, 2022

    A stack of easy butterscotch brownies.

    Easy Butterscotch Brownies: These old-fashioned butterscotch brownies are chewy, fudgy, and surprisingly quick to make!

    If potlucks are on your calendar, you'll find plenty of easy potluck desserts here.

    stacked butterscotch brownies

    Quick Overview: 15 mins prep, only 30 minutes of cook time and you’ll have a delicious twist on a blondie ready for your whole family to enjoy!

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    This chewy butterscotch brownies recipe is one of those ones you can whip up on short notice and wow your guests with. It’s made with simple ingredients you can keep on hand at all times, and it only takes 15 minutes to get into the oven. (If you have a little more time, you’ll also love these ultimate banana pudding brownies or these incredible peanut butter brownies!)

    They have all the fudgy, chewy goodness of a brownie, the unique light coloring of a blondie, and delicious butterscotch flavor with the addition of butterscotch chips! With just the right amount of sweetness, these are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and be a hit with the whole family!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    You don’t need anything fancy for this easy butterscotch brownie recipe – some butter, sugar, eggs, flour, butterscotch chips, and a couple of other pantry staples come together to create a delicious treat!

    Ingredients for easy butterscotch brownies laid out on a counter with labels added to the photo.
    Ingredients
    • 1 cup of unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 cup brown sugar (dark brown sugar or light brown sugar)
    • ½ cup white sugar
    • 2 eggs, beaten
    • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¾ cup butterscotch chips

    See the recipe card below for full instructions and ingredients all in one convenient place!

    Instructions

    These brownies with butterscotch chips are super easy to make. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions!

    1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9×13 pan (or an 8×8 pan if you want thicket brownies) with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
    2. Blend together melted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Whisk in eggs and vanilla.
    Brown sugar, white sugar, and butter creamed together in a bowl.
    1. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, and salt.
    2. Using a wooden spoon (or the paddle of a stand mixer on low), combine flour and sugar mixtures together in the large bowl until batter forms. Batter will be thick.
    Mix flour, baking soda, salt in a bowl.
    Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
    Add flour mixture to sugar mixture and combine.
    Combine sugar mixture & flour mixture.
    1. Using a rubber spatula, fold in butterscotch chips. Spread batter into the prepared baking dish.
    2. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

    (If you’re using an 8×8 square pan, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.)

    Fold in butterscotch chips.
    Fold in butterscotch chips.
    Spread brownie batter into prepared 9x13 pan.
    Bake at 350°.
    1. Transfer your 9×13 to a wire rack and cool for 10-15 minutes. Cut into 24 squares and serve. These would be delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a cup of coffee!
    A spatula removing a square of baked butterscotch brownie from a 9x13 tray.
    Cool, cut & serve!

    More brownie recipes: If you’re looking for more fun twists on a classic brownie, check out our peanut butter banana brownies, these super quick & easy lemon cake mix brownies, or these delicious & pretty strawberry brownies! Or if traditional chocolate brownies are more your style, you’ll love these chocolate brownies with cream cheese frosting.

    More butterscotch recipes: If you’re craving more butterscotch, give these hello dollies bars and this butterscotch cinnamon pie recipe a try!

    Substitutions & Variations

    Want to mix things up or need something switched out? Here are some of our favorite suggestions for this easy butterscotch brownie recipe.

    • Sugars – a blend of brown and white sugar will result in the best brownies, but that being said if you are in a pinch you can definitely use one or the other exclusively.
    • Eggs -if you don’t have eggs, or can’t eat eggs, you could use a flax egg in this recipe.
    • Butterscotch Chips – although we love this recipe just the way it is, with the butterscotch chips in it, you could technically replace the butterscotch chips with and kind you like! You could try peanut butter chips, chocolate chips, white chocolate chips - the options are endless!
    • Butter – if you want to use salted butter, decrease the salt in this recipe to ¼ teaspoon.
    Butterscotch brownies on a plate with a tray of brownies and a glass of milk in the background.
    Butterscotch Brownies

    Storage

    Store any leftover butterscotch brownies at room temperature for 3-4 days in an airtight container, or for 7-10 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

    You can also store these for up to 4 months in a freezer, as long as they are in an airtight, freezer-safe container.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Do butterscotch chips taste good in a brownie?

    Absolutely! It’s a great alternative to chocolate chips and gives that old-fashioned flavor that’s a nice twist from a milk chocolate chip.

    What’s the difference between butterscotch brownies and butterscotch blondies?

    Typically, a brownie is a baked good that has chocolate or chocolate flavoring in it (cocoa powder, chocolate, white chocolate). A blondie is a baked good that has no chocolate in it (aside from maybe some chocolate chips sprinkled in).

    By that definition, these would technically be butterscotch blondies…but we still think of them as butterscotch brownies. If you are looking for blondie recipes, check out our Lucky Charms Blondies.

    More Brownie Recipes

    If you love brownie recipes, you’ll love how easy it is to make these red velvet brownies, or one of these favorites:

    • Strawberry brownies on white marble cutting board.
      Strawberry Brownies Recipe
    • Lemon Brownies Recipe with cake mix
      Lemon Cake Mix Brownies
    • Brownie mix cookies stacked on top of one another
      Brownie Mix Cookies
    • Oreo Brookies
      Oreo Brookies

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    A stack of easy butterscotch brownies.
    Print Pin
    5 from 9 votes

    Easy Butterscotch Brownies

    Easy Butterscotch Brownies: These old fashioned butterscotch brownies are chewy, fudgey, and surprisingly quick to make! 15 mins prep, 30 mins cook time and you'll have a delicious twist on a blondie ready for your whole family to enjoy!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 30 minutes minutes
    Total Time 45 minutes minutes
    Servings 24 servings
    Calories 189kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup unsalted butter melted
    • 1 cup brown sugar
    • ½ cup white sugar
    • 2 large eggs beaten
    • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¾ cup butterscotch chips

    Instructions

    • Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9×13 pan (or an 8×8 pan if you want thicket brownies) with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
    • Blend together butter, brown sugar and white sugar in a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Whisk in eggs and vanilla.
    • In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking soda and salt.
    • Using a wooden spoon (or the paddle of a stand mixer on low), mix together sugar and flour mixtures until batter forms. Batter will be thick.
    • Using a rubber spatula, fold in butterscotch chips. Spread batter into the prepared baking pan.
    • Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
      (If you're using an 8×8 pan, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.)
    • Transfer your 9×13 to a wire cooling rack and cool for 10-15 minutes. Cut into 24 squares and serve.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 189kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 102mg | Potassium: 33mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 264IU | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg

    Peanut Butter Banana Brownies

    May 18, 2022

    A plate of peanut butter banana brownies.

    Peanut Butter Banana Brownies: Move over regular brownies, these peanut butter banana brownies are the ones you’ve been waiting for! It only takes 15 minutes to get these in the oven, and pantry staples you probably have on hand right now!

    Brownie recipes can be so fun and these red velvet brownies and strawberry brownies are even made with cake mixes to make them easier!

    A plate of peanut butter banana brownies.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    I’m a self-professed peanut butter lover as well as a chocolate lover, so these brownies were an easy yes for me! The addition of the banana is just a bonus!

    If you are looking for a quick, easy brownie recipe that uses ingredients you will likely always have on hand, these cocoa powder brownies are the ones for you! (As well as these cornflake brownies.)

    They are full of flavor, moist and soft, fudgy and chewy. These would be perfect for an after school snack, for dipping in a chocolate fondue, or as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream beside them.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    Sometimes we run out of chocolate chips in my house (probably because my kids think they are the best snack food), so fudgy brownies that can be made with just cocoa powder are a must for me! This easy brownie recipe uses ingredients that you probably have right now but could easily get at a grocery store if you don’t!

    Peanut butter banana brownie ingredients with labels.
    Ingredients
    • Butter: This makes the brownie fudgy and moist!
    • Baking Powder: This is the leavening agent that helps your brownie rise a bit.
    • Ripe Bananas: Adding ripe bananas will give it a light banana flavor and also make your brownie moist!
    • White All Purpose Flour: Of course we need some flour to help hold this all together. We used white all purpose flour for this recipe, but you could use whole wheat flour if you prefer (or see our substitutions for gluten-free alternatives).
    • Sugar: Just the right amount of sugar helps make this brownie sweet but not too sweet.
    • Eggs: Eggs are important for so many reasons! Most brownies don’t have a ton of flour in them, so eggs act as a binding agent to hold the brownie together. They also help give your brownie that fudgy texture.
    • Cocoa Powder: Since we aren’t using any chocolate in this brownie recipe, the cocoa powder is what gives it its chocolatey flavor!
    • Peanut Butter: Add in some creamy peanut butter for a delicious peanut butter flavor.

    You can find a complete list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card below.

    Instructions

    These brownies are super quick and easy to make – all you need is one bowl and 15 minutes of your time, and you’ll have delicious brownies in the oven making your house smell amazing.

    Peanut butter banana brownie ingredients in bowls on the counter.
    A few ingredients
    Butter and sugar in a bowl.
    Cream butter & sugar
    1. Gather your ingredients, heat oven to 350 degrees, and coat a 9×13 inch baking pan in nonstick cooking spray.
    2. In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the sugar and butter until creamy and well combined.
    Eggs and banana added to the butter and sugar mixture in the bowl.
    Add banana
    Flour and cocoa powder on top of the butter, sugar, egg, banana mixture in a bowl.
    Add cocoa
    1. Mash bananas. Whisk the eggs and mashed bananas into the creamed butter mixture until the mixture is smooth.
    2. Add the ½ cup cocoa powder (use a good quality cocoa powder for the best results), flour, and baking powder. Whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no clumps of flour remain.
    Peanut butter on top of the brownie batter in a bowl.
    Add peanut butter
    Brownie batter spread into a prepared 9x13 pan.
    Fold in the peanut butter
    1. Fold in the ½ cup peanut butter with a rubber spatula until it is evenly distributed throughout the brownie batter. I found that creamy peanut butter worked better than crunchy peanut butter; however, you can always sprinkle chopped peanuts over the batter before baking if you want a crunchy experience!
    2. You can add a few dollops of peanut butter to the top of the batter and use a butter knife to swirl it in for a pretty peanut butter swirl on top! Pour the brownie mixture into the pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick can be cleanly removed from the center of the pan.
    One brownie square being held on a spatula above the full 9x13 pan of brownies.
    Cut and serve!
    A stack of brownies with a plate of brownies and bunch of bananas in the background.
    Delicious peanut butter banana brownies
    1. Let cool on a cooling rack, then slice into squares and enjoy! These brownies can either be served immediately or served cold, they’re great either way!

    Serving Suggestion: Serve these peanut butter chocolate banana brownies cold alongside a cup of coffee, warm with a scoop of ice cream or with a glass of cold milk!

    Substitutions

    • Peanut Butter – creamy works best, but you could use natural peanut butter, other natural nut butters or even a crunchy peanut butter if you prefer.
    • Gluten-Free – you can easily make these brownies gluten-free by replacing the 1 cup of white flour for a 1:1 ration gluten-free flour blend! You could also try using 1 cup almond flour instead of white flour (we haven’t tested this substitution – let us know if you try it)!
    • Dairy-Free – replace the butter in this recipe with a dairy-free alternative (or even coconut oil) so that even those on a dairy-free diet can enjoy them!
    • Eggs – if you can’t have eggs, you can try using flax eggs instead. You might notice a slight flax flavor in the brownies, but they will work as a binding agent just as well as an egg for this recipe.
    • Vegan – if you use the dairy-free substitution and the egg substitution above, you can turn these into vegan peanut butter banana brownies!
    • Sugar – you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar for this recipe. It will change the texture of the finished product, but it will work in a pinch!

    Variations

    The best part of a brownie recipe is that it’s a great base to get creative with! Here are a few fun ideas for you to try…

    • Holiday Festive – mix in some sprinkles and sprinkle some on top of the batter before baking to make your brownies festive! Try red and pink sprinkles for Valentine’s Day, green and tiny 4 leaf clover sprinkles for St. Patrick’s Day, red and green for Christmas, little pumpkin sprinkles for Halloween. Get creative!
    • S’mores Brownies – sprinkle some mini marshmallows and a little bit of chopped graham crackers on top of the banana brownie batter before baking to make these into s’mores themed peanut butter banana brownies!
    • Extra Chocolate – if you have a major sweet tooth, stir some chocolate chunks (or we even used a chocolate pudding mix in brownies, before) into the brownie batter before baking! Your brownies will be gooey and delicious!

    Storage

    You can store your banana peanut butter brownies on the counter or in the fridge, as long as it’s in an airtight container. On the counter they should last 3-5 days, in the fridge they should last at least a week.

    You can also store these in an airtight, freezer safe container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Perfect for when you want a quick snack (and if you haven’t tried eating a frozen brownie before, you really should).

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Do I have to use ripe bananas?

    It is important to use ripe bananas to get the best banana flavor. An unripe banana really won’t taste the same. If you only have fresh bananas and need to ripen some quickly, check out this blog post on how to ripen a banana faster!

    Can you use bananas in brownies?

    Why yes, yes you can! This brownie recipe is the perfect way to use up all those overripe bananas you have kicking around!

    Related Recipes

    More brownie recipes: If you’re in the mood for another twist on the classic brownies recipe, go check out our lemon cake mix brownies or our strawberry brownies recipe! We have so many great recipes on the blog for brownies!

    More chocolate recipes: In the mood for something super chocolatey? You have to try this hot fudge cake! This is one of our favorite recipes when it comes to chocolate cake.

    Need to use up some overripe bananas?: I have the best banana bread recipe (with a secret ingredient) as well as an amazing banana bread pudding recipe you should try! Or, this banana pudding poke cake has a lot of banana flavor.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    A plate of peanut butter banana brownies.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Peanut Butter Banana Brownies

    Peanut Butter Banana Brownies: Move over regular brownies, these peanut butter banana brownies are the ones you've been waiting for! It only takes 15 minutes to get these in the oven, and pantry staples you probably have on hand right now!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 55 minutes minutes
    Total Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 brownies
    Calories 390kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup salted butter softened at room temperature
    • 2 cups white granulated sugar
    • 4 large eggs
    • 2 ripe bananas mashed
    • ½ cup cocoa powder
    • 1 cup white all-purpose flour (whole wheat also works)
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ cup creamy peanut butter

    Instructions

    • Heat oven to 350 degrees and coat a 9×13 inch baking pan in nonstick cooking spray.
    • In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the sugar and butter until creamy and well combined.
    • Mash bananas. Whisk the eggs and mashed bananas into the creamed butter mixture until the mixture is smooth.
    • Add the cocoa powder, flour, and baking powder. Whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no clumps of flour remain.
    • Fold in the peanut butter with a rubber spatula until it is evenly distributed throughout the brownie batter.
    • Pour the batter into the pan and bake the brownies for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick can be cleanly removed from the center of the pan.
    • Let cool, then slice into squares and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 390kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 103mg | Sodium: 192mg | Potassium: 134mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 563IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg

    Nacho Bar Ideas

    May 18, 2022

    nacho bar ideas

    Nacho Bar Ideas: An easy “serve yourself,” style of food bar for a party or event. Topping ideas, and my favorite way to serve the cheese!

    As a party planner at heart, I decided to style an easy nacho bar since food bars are my favorite!

    Table with nacho bar toppings in bowls and on plates

    We invited a few of our closest friends over on a Friday night, with a Facebook invite saying,

    It’s Nacho Birthday, it’s his!

    We then told them to plan on coming over to our house after school & work that Friday evening, for a nacho bar & some brew. (Juice boxes for the kiddos.)

    Nacho toppings on table, easily for guests to grab and go

    You’ll Also Love:

    • Taco Bar Toppings Ideas
    • Leftovers? Make these BBQ White Queso Nachos

    Everyone LOVED the nacho bar idea! They were able to make their own… just the way they wanted it, and it was the perfect way to vedge out, on a Friday evening.

    The idea started, when I saw a sign out front of the party rental store in my home town that said,

    “NOW CARRYING A NACHO CHEESE MACHINE.”

    I just about rear-ended someone, because of my excitement. I literally planned this party days later. 😉

    Nacho Bar Ideas

    Nacho cheese machine

    How to Make a Nacho Bar

    I literally bought almost everything already pre-made and pre-cut. It was by choice to make the guacamole and pico de gallo. But a nacho bar is PERFECT for a last minute party idea because it was literally all ready in no time.

    My easy guacamole recipe is a HUGE hit on Pinterest, and my top most-visited recipe post every year if you want to snag it too:

    Guacamole Dip in white bowl

    Type of Cheese for Nacho Bar

    In the recipe card below, you’ll find instructions for making your own cheese for the nacho bar, or you can make our Rotel Dip with Ground Beef!

    However, you can also look in to a nacho cheese machine rental, or you can usually also find the large cans of nacho cheese at grocery stores!

    White dishes full of salsa, sour cream, green onions

    Chips for a Nacho Bar

    Feel free to use your favorite tortilla chips (corn or flour)! Or, add a variety of chips, such as nacho cheese chips (like I use in this easy Doritos nachos recipe, lime chips, or even something fun like black bean chips!

    It’s fun to pour chips in to a basket, to serve them that way, instead of leaving them in the bags.

    But if you don’t have a basket, they’ll also go great in a large bowl!

    Chips in white basket

    Toppings for a Nacho Bar

    A nacho bar isn’t complete without salsal (try my rotel salsa), sour cream, and green onions.

    White bowls filled with salsa, sour cream, green onions

    (I had this wooden “plank,” left over from my son’s Nautical Birthday party,” and I thought it would work perfectly to add a little boost or height to the table.)

    Shredded lettuce, black olives & Pico de Gallo…

    Brown tray full of lettuce, black olives, pico

    refried beans, fajita chicken, & jalapeños…

    Refried beans, chicken and jalapenos on white plates

    oh…. and guac. Guacamole. My weakness.

    Guacamole on white plate

    Mmmmm, & Chili. I do love a mean chili-cheese-nacho.

    Chili in bowl

    What to serve nachos in?

    I found the cutest “boats,” & wooden utensils for the nachos, and they worked perfectly! No dishes to wash! (Well… besides the platters and small bowls on the table.)

    Food boats
    Wooden utensils in white cups

    The best part? People were coming and going all night, and they were able to snack as they pleased. This will definitely be happening in our house again.

    Nacho toppings in white dishes

    Nacho Toppings Ideas:

    • Salsa
    • Sour Cream
    • Green Onions
    • Lettuce
    • Black Olives
    • Pico De Gallo
    • Refried Beans
    • Chicken Breast
    • Jalapeños
    • Guacamole
    • Chili

    …of course don’t forget your chips & cheese.

    If you’re able to rent a cheese machine, do it! The kids (AND ADULTS) loved the heck out of that thing. I’ll admit… I had “cheese,” with EVERYTHING the entire weekend, that I had this glorious invention, rented.

    More recipes to serve, if desired:

    If you’re looking to serve a few main dishes along with this, you may like the idea of these Crock Pot Enchiladas because they’re easy and can be in a slow cooker!

    Nacho Bar for Birthday Party

    Since you’re probably thinking of doing a nacho bar because it’s easy, then I wanted to make sure you saw my easy birthday cake that I did for my son. (In case you’re doing a nacho bar for a birthday party too!)

    For my parties, I usually hire out for the cake, cake pops, or cupcakes. But this year, since a big “to-do,” wasn’t taking place, (and only our closest friends would “see,” the cake), I thought I’d give it a whirl.

    Birthday Cake with little balloons!

    Now… I can make a cake. That’s not the problem. It’s the DECORATING the cake. 

    Birthday Cake with little balloons!

      There’s a cake on Pinterest, that had itty bitty balloons sticking out of it, and I thought… I can do that! I just grabbed wooden skewers, small balloons, and super glued them to the skewers, and stuck ’em in. It worked, right?!

    Party Favors and Games

    I couldn’t send our guests out the door empty-handed. While my normal “stroll,” through the Target dollar bin, I came across playing cards & play dough, and thought they’d be the perfect little items to throw into goodie bags and to keep the kiddos busy on the car ride home.

    Easy Party Favors - Playing cards & Playdough

    I placed a rolling cart that I have from World Market, by the front door, and stuffed the goody bags in it… with a sign that said, “Take 1.” It worked out perfectly, and there wasn’t ONE favor left, by the end of the night. 

    Easy Party Favors - Playing cards & Playdough in wooden rolling cart

    If you’re looking for birthday game ideas for your nacho bar party, these 40th birthday party games are fun to keep in mind!

    So there it is! It was my “It’s Nacho Birthday, It’s His,” nacho bar party!

    P.S. My little guy LOVED his cake… & the nachos. He’s a “cruncher,” like his momma and loves anything salty and sweet. Ok, ok… he’s like his momma because he’ll eat anything.

    More Food Bar Ideas!

    If you love hosting food bars like I do, then you’ll also love these 51+ Food Bar Ideas too!

    Or, see some of our favorites, below:

    • Taco bar on table with salsa, chicken, and toppings in bowls.
      Taco Party and Taco Bar Ideas
    • hot dog toppings
      Hot Dog Bar Toppings and Ideas for Your Next Party
    • Burger Bar Ideas for an outdoor party
      Burger Bar Ideas for Your Next Party
    • Cereal Bar Ideas: Brunch shower, bridal shower, mother's day, baby shower breakfast party
      Cereal Bar Ideas for a Fun and Easy Party Setup

    Other Party Ideas by Fantabulosity

    • I can SO do this!!! Coffee Bar Party: "You've Warmed My Heart," theme! LOVE what she did as a random act of kindness with her guests! DIY Coffee bar ideas galore, and SO easy! fantabulosity.com
      Coffee Bar Ideas for a Party (What to Serve + Easy Setup Guide)
    • nacho bar ideas
      Nacho Bar Ideas
    • Ice Cream Party Ideas: Pastel Colors, ice cream cookies, cones with sprinkles,
      Ice Cream Party Ideas (Simple Decorations, Treats & Birthday Ideas)
    • Favorite Things Party Ideas
      Bloom Theme Party Ideas for a Girls Night or Shower

    Recipe

    nacho bar ideas
    Print Pin
    5 from 3 votes

    Nacho Bar Toppings & Ideas

    Nacho bars are SO fun and easy to serve for a crowd! Keep the toppings easy and use these tricks to make a spread worth inviting others to enjoy!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American, Mexican
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes minutes
    Servings 16 people
    Calories 108kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    If making your own cheese

    • processed cheese
    • 10 ounces diced tomatoes and green chilies Such as Rotel

    Topping Ideas

    • salsa
    • sour cream
    • green onions
    • lettuce
    • black olives
    • pico de gallo
    • refried beans
    • cooked chicken pieces
    • jalapenos
    • guacamole
    • chili
    • chips

    Instructions

    Melting the Cheese

    • If making your own nacho cheese: Slice the processed cheese (Velveeta) and place into a microwavable bowl.
    • Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies. (Undrained)
    • Microwave for 2-3 minutes. Stirm and then cook again in 1-2 minute increments until melted.
    • To keep warm for nacho bar, place melted cheese in a slow cooker or in a food warmer.

    Assemble Nachos

    • In small dishes or plates, start by placing tortilla chips down first. Pour cheese on top and top with favorite toppings!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 108kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 475mg | Potassium: 71mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 289IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 302mg | Iron: 1mg

    Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe

    May 17, 2022

    A slice of banana cream pie.

    Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe: Using whole milk, heavy cream, banana pudding mix, bananas, and a pie crust, you can make this in no time! It’s a simple pie recipe that’s sure to please any crowd (with a simple option for a no-bake banana cream pie, too)!

    Quick Overview: Only 10 minutes to put together and 3 hours to set. (Allow extra time if you prefer to bake your favorite homemade crust or refrigerated pie crust.)

    A slice of banana cream pie with the rest of the pie and a bunch of bananas in the background.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    Of all the cream pies, banana is one of my favorite pies (right up there with this no bake chocolate pie recipe). And I think banana cream pie is one of those classic recipes that everyone should try making at least once. And if you’re going to try making it, I’d highly recommend you try using this recipe because it’s so dang easy (you get a big wow factor with little effort)!

    The filling is made using a banana pudding mix which gives it a yummy banana flavor and makes the pie creamy and rich (without it taking as long as a homemade pudding). The bananas add a bit of texture to the pie, and the whole thing is simply great! This easy banana cake is a lovely cake version of a banana dessert.

    If you’re looking for a no-bake banana cream pie recipe, skip to the variations and see how you can turn this into one super quickly and easily!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    Using a banana cream pudding mix makes this homemade banana cream pie so quick and easy to throw together.

    Since this recipe uses simple ingredients, chances are you have some if not all of the ingredients on hand right now (and if not, your local grocery store absolutely will). So let’s make a pie!

    Banana cream pie ingredients with labels.

    You can find the complete list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card below.

    • Whole Milk: Using whole milk instead of anything less will ensure that your pie filling is as rich and creamy as possible.
    • Heavy Whipping Cream: The same goes for the heavy whipping cream! This helps thicken the pie filling as well as create a creamy, rich pudding.
    • Banana Pudding Mix: Using an instant pudding mix allows you to have this pie ready in no time! The chill time is similar to if you made the custard from scratch, but this pie mix version of banana cream pie can be put together in less than 10 minutes!
    • Prepared Pie Crust: Whether it’s from a store, homemade, dough or graham crackers (see variations), you’ll need something to hold all that yummy banana pie filling.
    • Ripe Bananas: Adding some sliced bananas into the filling gives the pie a bit of texture and an added layer of banana flavor! If you only have fresh bananas that aren’t very ripe yet, check out this blog post on how to ripen bananas quickly.

    How to Make Banana Cream Pie

    Let me show you how quickly and easily you can put together this banana cream pie. Follow along for step-by-step instructions.

    Ingredients for banana cream pie in dishes on a counter.
    Prepare pie crust.

    Step 1: Gather your ingredients, prepare your pie crust, and blind bake it according to the package or recipe (or use a graham cracker pie crust for a no-bake option).

    Milk, cream, and pudding mix together in a glass bowl.
    Mix milk, cream, pudding mix.

    Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk milk, cream, and pudding mix for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken. For the best results, use cold milk and cream.

    Mixed banana pie filling with sliced bananas in a bowl nexts to it.
    Add sliced bananas.

    Step 3: Once the pudding mixture has thickened, put a layer of pudding, then a single layer of sliced ripe banana, then a layer of pudding (and so on) into the prepared pie shell. 

    Banana pie filing in a prepared crust.
    Chill 3 hours.

    Step 4: Place the pie in the fridge to allow the pudding to finish setting for about three hours.

    Prepared banana pie with whipped cream, bananas, and almonds on top.

    Step 5: Cover the top of the pie with your favorite toppings (like whipped cream, bananas, almonds, etc.) and enjoy!

    More banana recipes: If you’re still craving yummy banana flavored treats, head over and try our banana bread pudding and the BEST banana bread you’ll ever make.

    More old-fashioned pie recipes: If it’s pie you’re craving, we’ve got you covered! Check out our old fashioned peanut butter pie (a no-bake recipe). And if you’re in the mood for something baked, you have to try our old fashioned egg custard!

    Substitutions

    • Milk – you could technically use any milk here, including a dairy-free option like soy or coconut milk.
    • Dairy-Free – if you are replacing the milk with a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream instead of whipping cream. It will change the flavor of the pie slightly, though. You can also find a coconut whipped topping to decorate the top of the pie with!
    • Gluten-Free – a lot of grocery stores now have pre-made, gluten-free crusts in the freezer section of their natural food aisles! Alternatively, you could always make a pie crust with gluten-free flour. Here’s a recipe for a gluten-free crust (that has a dairy-free option as well)!
    slice of banana cream pie on white plate with bite taken out

    Variations

    • No-bake Banana Cream Pie with Graham Cracker Crust – buy a pre-made graham crust from the store for the quickest and easiest no-bake pie crust ever! You can also make your own using graham cracker crumbs and melted butter (check out our no-bake s’mores cheesecake recipe for a recipe and step-by-step instructions).
    • Banana Caramel Pie – You could stir some caramel sauce into your banana pudding mix and drizzle some on top of your finished, decorated pie for a caramel twist on this easy banana cream pie!

    Storage

    Store your leftover banana cream pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

    You can also freeze this pie (without the whipped cream on top)! Store it in the freezer in a freezer-safe, airtight container (maybe even wrap it tightly in plastic wrap so the pudding doesn’t form a film) for up to two months. You can either serve it straight from the freezer for a super thick banana cream pie, or let it thaw in the fridge for a more creamy, soft consistency.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    How do you keep bananas from turning brown in a banana cream pie?

    If you eat it fast enough, they won’t have a chance to turn brown. But in all seriousness, if you want to prevent your bananas from browning you can treat them with a citrus juice (like lemon juice or lime juice). You don’t want them to taste a whole lot like lemon/lime, so try to do so sparingly. Brush the banana slices lightly with the juice or put it in a food safe spray bottle and spritz your slices.

    Why is my banana cream pie runny?

    If this was a from-scratch recipe, the culprit would be undercooking the pudding. Since we are using a pudding mix, if your pie is runny you probably haven’t let it set up in the fridge long enough.

    Note: there is also a slight chance of having a slightly softer/runnier pudding filling if you don’t use whole milk and use something thinner (like almond milk or soy). You could decrease the amount of milk you are adding slightly, making sure that the finished pudding is nice and thick.

    Why is it called banana cream pie?

    I bet you can guess the answer to this one - it’s right in the name! We call this a banana cream pie because it has a creamy, custard filling and it’s full of bananas and delicious banana flavor.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    More No-Bake Pie Recipes

    Love no-bake pies as much as we do? Then you’ll love these others that we recommend:

    • Slice of turtle pie on white plate.
      Turtle Pie
    • Slice of no bake chocolate pie on white plate.
      No Bake Chocolate Pie
    • Slice of pumpkin pie made with graham cracker crust.
      No Bake Pumpkin Pie
    • No bake chocolate pie slice on wood spatula
      Chocolate Cream Cheese Pie

    Recipe

    A slice of banana cream pie.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe

    Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe: Using whole milk, heavy cream, banana pudding mix, bananas, and a pie crust, you can make this in no time! It's a simple recipe that's sure to please any crowd (with a simple option for a no-bake banana cream pie, too)!
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Chill Time 3 hours hours
    Total Time 3 hours hours 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 217kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
    • 1 – 5 ounce banana pudding mix
    • 1 prepared pie crust store-bought or homemade
    • 2 ripe bananas sliced

    Instructions

    • If using your favorite homemade pie crust recipe, prepare accordingly.
      If using a storebought pie crust, prepare pie crust if needed. (I like Pillsbury crust, and the directions for this brand, are to preheat oven to 450ºF. Place unbaked crust in pie pan and fold excess crust under, and press together to form thick crust edge. Prick the bottom and side with fork. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until light brown. Cool. But different brands can vary for instructions.)
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, and pudding mix for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken.
    • Once the pudding mixture has thickened, put a layer of pudding, then a layer of sliced ripe banana, then a layer of pudding (and so on) into the prepared pie shell. 
    • Place the pie in the fridge to allow the pudding to finish setting for about three hours.
    • Top with your favorite toppings (like whipped cream, bananas, almonds, etc.) and enjoy!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store your leftover banana cream pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 
    You can also freeze this pie (without the whipped cream on top)! Store it in the freezer in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to two months. You can either serve it straight from the freezer for a super thick banana cream pie, or let it thaw in the fridge for a more creamy, soft consistency.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 217kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 108mg | Potassium: 96mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 487IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 61mg | Iron: 1mg

    Pineapple Bread

    May 8, 2022

    Sliced pineapple bread on a wood cutting board.

    Pineapple Bread: This easy recipe for pineapple bread is sure to be a hit! This moist, perfectly sweet loaf is bursting with tropical flavors thanks to the pineapple and coconut in the recipe!

    Sliced pineapple bread on a wooden counter.

    The bright tropical flavors in this recipe make it the perfect dessert to serve for a baby shower, spring brunch, or summer barbecue! This Preacher Cake has a similar flavor profile as it also has pineapple and coconut, but it’s slathered in a rich cream cheese frosting.

    This bread is moist, flavorful, and perfectly sweet. Serve up a slice with a piña colada and pretend you are on a beach somewhere, or cut yourself a slice of bread and pour a cup of coffee and have a sweet treat for breakfast!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    1. Bursting with Flavor: Move over banana bread, pineapple bread is here. The pineapple flavor with a hint of coconut makes this a tropical delight!
    2. Unique: Wow your guests with something new they may not have tried before (but definitely should)! This sweet pineapple bread is sure to be a hit!
    3. Easy: I love a recipe that’s simple, and this one definitely is. No rise time, no complicated techniques – simply mix the wet, mix the dry, combine and bake.

    Ingredients

    This pineapple bread uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. One quick trip to the grocery store is all you need and you’ll be ready to whip up this tasty tropical treat!

    Pineapple Loaf

    • all purpose flour
    • baking powder
    • baking soda
    • salt
    • eggs
    • sour cream
    • canned pineapple
    • white sugar
    • unsalted butter 

    Icing

    • powdered sugar
    • canned pineapple
    • unsalted butter
    • unsweetened shredded coconut

    You can find a complete list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card below.

    Sliced pineapple bread.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    Step 1: Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8×4 bread pan or spray with non stick cooking spray.

    Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Make a well in the center and set it aside.

    Dry ingredients for pineapple bread in a bowl.
    Mix dry ingredients.

    Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and 1 cup of the pineapple and whisk again. Mix in sour cream until well incorporated.

    A measuring cup pouring butter into a bowl with liquid and a whisk in it.
    Mix wet ingredients.

    Step 4: Pour wet mixture into the well of the flour mixture. Gently fold together with a spatula until blended together. Do not over mix.

    Liquid ingredients being poured into dry ingredients in a bowl.
    Pour wet into dry ingredients.

    Step 5: Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Gently spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until toothpick, comes out clean in center.

    Pineapple bread batter in a loaf pan.
    Spread evenly in loaf pan.

    Step 6: In a separate bowl, make icing by creaming together the butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy (approximately 3 minutes). Add pineapple, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Set aside until bread is done.

    Liquid being poured into the icing ingredients in a bowl.
    Make icing.

    Step 7: Remove bread from the oven when done and allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Pour the remaining pineapple onto the loaf (this will make it extra moist and pineapple flavored).

    Baked pineapple bread in a loaf pan.
    Let bread cool.

    Step 8: Once bread is completely cooled spread icing evenly over the top. Sprinkle coconut evenly on top. Slice up your fresh pineapple bread and enjoy!

    Icing being spread on a baked pineapple bread loaf.
    Spread icing on loaf.
    Shredded coconut being poured onto iced pineapple bread loaf.

    More sweet bread: If you’re in the mood for more delicious, comforting dessert breads, try this banana bread with a secret ingredient that makes it so moist and flavorful! And this lemon bread with blueberries is sweet, tart, and also delicious. And, this gorgeously pink strawberry bread with strawberry icing is bright and delicious.

    More pineapple recipes: If you’re in the mood for more easy recipes with pineapple flavor, check out this pineapple sunshine cake or this pineapple dump cake (similar to a pineapple upside-down cake).

    Substitutions

    If you need or want, here are a few substitutions you can make…

    • Coconut – This can be omitted if you don’t have or don’t like the taste of coconut.
    • Gluten-Free – Use your favorite gluten-free blend of flour and make this recipe gluten-free.
    • No Eggs – Can’t have eggs? A cornstarch egg or flax egg should work just as well in this recipe.
    • Dairy-Free – Instead of butter, try using coconut oil in this recipe and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative!

    Variations

    Looking to change this recipe up a bit? Here are a few suggestions?

    • Chunky Pineapple – Instead of blending your pineapple, leave it in the larger pieces it comes in. This will add some extra texture to the finished loaf.
    • Nuts – If you’re a nut lover, stir some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
    • Chocolate Chips – If you’re anything like my kids, you think every dessert loaf needs chocolate chips. Mix a handful or two of chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolate twist.
    • Fruit – Try switching out the canned fruit you use to make this loaf completely knew! I haven’t tried this, but I think canned peaches would make a delicious loaf! Or something similar may be this strawberry bread!
    • Cream Cheese Icing – This recipe would taste delicious with a cream cheese icing on the top as well!

    Storage

    Store your pineapple loaf cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

    You could freeze the pineapple bread before icing (in an airtight, freezer safe bag or container), but we wouldn’t recommend freezing an iced loaf as the icing ingredients will not hold up well in the freezer.

    Expert Tips

    What is pineapple bread made of?

    Pineapple bread is similar to banana bread, but instead of bananas to add flavor and moisture it uses pineapple!

    How do you crush a pineapple?

    If you are wanting to use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe, simply cut the exterior peel off of your pineapple, chop it into smaller pieces and then pulse it in a food processor to make “crushed pineapple”.

    For this recipe, we blended the pineapple to create a smooth texture but if you want small chunks in your finished loaf you can use crushed pineapple instead!

    What’s the difference between powdered sugar, confectioners sugar, and icing sugar?

    These are actually all the same thing! Different parts of the world use different terms for this, but they are all referring to the finely powdered sugar used for making icing.

    Recipe

    Sliced pineapple bread on a wood cutting board.
    Print Pin
    5 from 3 votes

    Pineapple Bread

    Pineapple Bread: This easy recipe for pineapple bread is sure to be a hit! This moist, perfectly sweet loaf is bursting with tropical flavors thanks to the pineapple and coconut in the recipe!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 20 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 1 hour hour
    Total Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes
    Servings 10 slices
    Calories 420kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    Bread

    • 2 cups all purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 2 eggs
    • ¼ cup sour cream
    • 14 ounces crushed pineapple blended until smooth (divided)
    • ⅔ cup white sugar
    • ½ cup unsalted butter melted

    Icing

    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 2 – 3 tablespoons blended pineapple
    • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
    • ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

    Instructions

    • Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8×4 bread pan or spray with non stick cooking spray.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Make a well in the centre and set aside.
    • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and 1 cup of the pineapple and whisk again. Mix in sour cream until well incorporated.
    • Pour liquid ingredients into the well of dry ingredients. Gently fold together with a spatula until blended together. Do not overmix.
    • Pour batter into your prepared loaf pan. Gently spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean in centre.
    • Make icing by creaming together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (approximately 3 minutes). Add pineapple, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Set aside until bread is done.
    • Remove bread from the oven when done and allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan, then transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely. Pour remaining pineapple onto the loaf (this will make it extra moist and pineapple flavoured).
    • Once bread is completely cooled spread icing evenly over the top. Sprinkle coconut evenly on top.

    Video

    Notes

    This recipe makes one 8×4 loaf pan. 
     
    STORAGE: Store your pineapple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
    You could freeze the pineapple bread before icing (in an airtight, freezer safe bag or container), but we wouldn’t recommend freezing an iced loaf as the icing ingredients will not hold up well in the freezer. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1slice | Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 63g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 148mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 41g | Vitamin A: 484IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg

    Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

    May 2, 2022

    Three chocolate rice krispie treats stacked on top of each other.

    Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: This recipe is a fun twist on an old classic! Soft, gooey Rice Krispie treats get a chocolate upgrade with the addition of chocolate chips. Ready in under 10 minutes, this sweet treat is the perfect last minute snack!

    Chocolate Rice Krispie treats on a tray with a bowl of chocolate chips beside them.

    Classic rice krispie treats are a classic for a reason – they come together quickly and easily, they use simple pantry ingredients that most of us have on hand at all times, and they are delicious! Next, try making these Marshmallow Fluff Rice Krispie Treats to see which you like better!

    A traditional Rice Krispy treat is just marshmallows, butter and rice cereal, but I’m a chocolate lover so of course I needed to try adding chocolate into the Rice Krispie treats. And the end result didn’t disappoint! If you’re a chocolate fan and/or a Rice Krispie fan, this recipe is for you!

    Or, if you want to experiment with different types of cereal, you may love using Lucky Charms for marshmallow treats! If you love a good twist on a recipe, you’ll want to try these carrot cake rice krispie treats too.

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    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    1. Quick & Easy: This recipe takes less than 10 minutes to make and is so simple you can even invite the kids to help you make it if you like!
    2. Pantry Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make this yummy snack, just a few simple ingredients most of us have on hand at all times.
    3. It’s Delicious: Rice Krispie squares are a treat that has stood the test of time (they were first created in the early 1900’s) for a good reason – they’re delicious. The addition of chocolate to this classic recipe takes this yummy treat to a whole new level and will make chocolate lovers and cereal treat lovers everywhere happy!

    Ingredients for this Classic Treat

    You only need 5 simple ingredients to make this easy recipe!

    • Butter – the addition of unsalted butter helps keep your Rice Krispie treats soft.
    • Miniature Marshmallows – you can’t have a Rice Krispie treat without sweet marshmallows! Using mini marshmallows makes it easier to mix everything together as they melt quicker and more evenly.
    • Half and Half Cream – adding cream makes it easier to combine all of your ingredients. It also makes your Rice Krispie treats a bit more creamy.
    • Rice Cereal – this is the iconic ingredient from which the treat gets its name. Of course we can’t forget about the rice cereal (we used Rice Krispies).
    • Chocolate Chips – the addition of chocolate chips elevates this snack to a whole new level.

    You can find a complete list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card below. 

    Instructions for This Easy Chocolate Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

    Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
    1. Prepare: Spray an 8×8 pan with non stick cooking spray.
    2. Melt: In large saucepan on low or medium-low heat, combine butter, marshmallows, and chocolate chips.  Stir often until marshmallows have melted.  Add in half and half and stir until mixture is smooth and creamy.
    3. Stir: Add cereal into your melted chocolate and marshmallow mixture and mix until everything comes together and cereal is coated in the marshmallow mixture. 
    4. Press: Place the cereal mixture into the prepared pan, pressing firmly to fill the bottom of the pan evenly.
    5. Chill: Allow to set or chill for 10 minutes before cutting.

    Serving Suggestion: Try sprinkling some extra chocolate chips and extra marshmallows on top of your Rice Krispies treats before they set.

    Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats with chocolate chips and Rice Krispies on the table next to them.
    A fun chocolate twist on a classic!

    More Rice Krispie marshmallow treats: If you’re looking for more quick, easy, and delicious Rice Krispie treats, you definitely need to try our caramel Rice Krispies treats and our Oreo Rice Krispie treats!

    Other fun cereal treats: If you love cereal, check out this fun Fruity Pebbles treat recipe!

    Looking for other easy desserts? We have plenty!

    Substitutions

    The ingredients in this recipe are pretty simple, but there are a few substitutions that can be made if you need.

    • Half and half cream – you can use whole milk (or whatever milk you have in the fridge) instead. Your rice Krispy treats won’t be as creamy, but the milk will still help with mixing the ingredients together more easily.
    • Marshmallows – I haven’t tried this, but some people have had great success replacing the marshmallows with marshmallow fluff or even creamy peanut butter. If you do try this substitution, let me know in the comments below!
    • Chocolate Chips – you can use 4 ounces of milk chocolate instead of chocolate chips. Either one will create that yummy chocolate flavor we are looking for in this dessert.

    Variations

    Our chocolate Rice Krispie treats are already a variation on a classic no bake fun treat, but there’s still tons of ways you can mix things up! Here are a few suggestions…

    • Mix-ins – our favorite way to add variety to simple recipes is to add some mix-ins to match the occasion. Whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or just a Tuesday, you can find fun and festive sprinkles and candies to stir into and sprinkle on top of your Rice Krispie treats!
    • Mint – instead of vanilla extract, try using peppermint extract to turn these into Mint Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats!
    • Switch Up The Cereal – instead of classic crispy rice cereal, try a different rice cereal like cocoa Krispies, fruity pebbles, or similar!

    Storage

    Store your Rice Krispie treats in the pan (covered), in an airtight container, or wrap each treat individually in plastic wrap. Treats should keep for 2 days at room temperature. 

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    What can I use instead of marshmallow for Rice Krispie Treats?

    I haven’t tried this, but some people have had great success replacing the marshmallows with marshmallow fluff or even peanut butter. If you do try this substitution, let me know in the comments below!

    Why did my rice crispy treats turn out hard?

    The biggest culprit here is heat – if you melt your marshmallows over too high of heat (even though it’s tempting to speed things up) they will become harder! Take it low and slow and you’ll be rewarded with soft, chewy Rice Krispie treats.

    Can you melt old marshmallows?

    Technically you can, but old marshmallows don’t melt as well as fresh ones. We would highly recommend grabbing a fresh bag for this recipe!

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    Three chocolate rice krispie treats stacked on top of each other.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

    Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are soft, gooey Rice Krispie treats get a chocolate upgrade with the addition of chocolate chips. Ready in under 10 minutes, this sweet treat is the perfect last minute snack! 
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 2 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 7 minutes minutes
    Chill Time (Optional) 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 9 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 treats
    Calories 86kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
    • 1 – 10 ounce bag mini marshmallows
    • ½ cup chocolate chips
    • 5 cups crispy rice cereal I used Rice Krispies
    • 1 tablespoon half and half cream or whole milk (optional)

    Instructions

    • Spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick cooking spray.
    • In large pot on low heat, combine butter, marshmallows, and chocolate chips.  Stir often until marshmallows have melted.  Add in half and half and stir until mixture is smooth and creamy.
    • Add cereal and mix until everything comes together and cereal is coated in marshmallow mixture.   
    • Place into the prepared pan, pressing firmly to fill the pan evenly.
    • Allow to set or chill for 10 minutes before cutting (optional, but highly recommended).

    Notes

    • Adding the half and half cream or whole milk makes combining everything a lot easier. 
    • Use fresh marshmallows for the best results. 
    SUBSTITUTIONS: If you don’t have chocolate chips, you can use 4 ounces of milk chocolate in its place. 
    STORAGE: Store your Rice Krispie treats in the pan (covered) or wrap each treat individually in plastic wrap. Treats should keep for 2 days at room temperature. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1treat | Calories: 86kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 21mg | Potassium: 11mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 80IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg

    Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

    May 1, 2022

    Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup on spoon over bowl of soup

    This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a Panera Bread copycat recipe that uses simple ingredients and is ready in just 30 minutes!

    Close up of broccoli cheddar soup on spoon
    Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

    Quick Overview: Saute vegetables right inside of the pot, high-pressure the broth and veggies, create a roux with butter and flour on the stovetop, and finish by adding roux to the Instant Pot for a thick and creamy, delicious Instant Pot broccoli cheese soup for an easy Instant Pot recipe.

    Love copycat recipes? Broccoli cheddar soup is one of Panera’s most popular recipes and the next time you’re craving it, try this easy recipe for some quick comfort food that may just become one of your new favorite things!

    When to serve: Serve this great recipe, something that the whole family will love, (yes, even picky eaters!) on a busy weeknight or for something warm and comforting on the weekends in a bread bowl!

    See our easy soup recipes that are perfect for the cooler months or to serve a crowd!

    broccoli cheddar soup in a white bowl with spoon
    Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
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    Ingredients

    Made with REAL ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese, chicken broth (you can even make my homemade chicken broth recipe), and milk, this broccoli cheese soup recipe is made from scratch but is quick to make!

    You may even have all, or at least a handful of ingredients on hand already, to make this soup!

    Ingredients for broccoli cheddar soup
    Ingredients
    1. Butter – salted or unsalted butter will work!
    2. Celery – Chop in to small pieces, or very fine if you have a picky eater and want to try to slip it past them.
    3. Garlic – cloves, minced (but feel free to use the pre-minced garlic that you can buy at the store, to speed things up).
    4. Flour – all purpose flour is ideal for this recipe
    5. Milk – Whole, 2%, 1%, and skim are fine to use but whole milk is preferred
    6. Chicken broth – Feel free to use homemade chicken broth, chicken stock, storebought broth or even granules to make your own broth
    7. Broccoli florets – we use fresh broccoli florets and find that works better than watery, frozen broccoli.
    8. Carrots – shred the carrot, fine, or even buy pre-shredded carrots (about ½ cup or so of shredded can equal one carrot, shredded)
    9. Salt – amounts suggested in the recipe card but salt to taste
    10. Black pepper – just a pinch of pepper is needed for the perfect spice
    11. Shredded cheddar cheese – you can definitely speed things up by buying shredded cheese in the grocery store. However, if you have time to shred your own, you’ll get much better results, as shredding your own doesn’t contain the powdery substance that most store bought, pre-shredded cheeses do.

    Substitutions and Variations

    • Vegetables – If you aren’t a fan of the vegetables used in this recipe, you can simply omit them. However, do note that removing things like the onion, can really change the flavor of the soup overall so you may have a different result than what the recipe calls for.
    • Cheese – although this recipe calls for shredded cheddar, if you only have different kinds of cheeses on hand, don’t be afriad to try it. It may result in a slightly different flavor if using something far from cheddar. You can also a mild cheddar or a sharp cheddar cheese.
    • Milk – If you only have heavy cream or half and half on hand, you can definitely use it instead but do note that using something thicker than milk can result in a thicker soup.
    • Broth – This recipe calls for chicken broth but you can easily substitute it for vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian soup.

    You can find the complete list of ingredients and directions can be found in the recipe card below.

    Instructions for this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

    steps 2 through 4: Image collage for soup
    Steps 2-4
    1. Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
    2. When the butter melted, add the diced onion and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
    3. Add chicken broth to the cooked onions, garlic, and celery.
    4. Add broccoli and carrots to the Instant Pot.

    Lock your lid in place and make sure your vent is sealed. Pressure for 2 minutes.
    When the time is up, quick release the pressure and allow the steam to vent until you can open the lid.

    Steps 5 and 6 for making Instant Pot soup
    Making the roux
    1. In the meantime, in a medium saucepan, melt 1⁄2 cup of butter. Slowly whisk in flour until blended and creamy. Set aside.

    Turn your Instant Pot on to the sauté function.

    1. Add a cup of the hot broth from your instant pot to your butter/flour mixture and continue to whisk until blended.

    Next, add the butter/flour mixture to your instant pot. Whisk until soup thickens.


    1. Heat up your milk in microwave UNTIL VERY WARM. DO NOT BOIL. This will prevent the milk from curdling when adding it to the hot soup.
    2. Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
    3 image collage showing steps 7 through 9 for broccoli cheese soup
    Add roux, milk & cheese

    What to Serve with this Soup

    If you have a bread bowl to serve this delicious soup in, it really hits the spot but it’s not necessary and you can absolutely use a regular bowl! You can also make this easy Italian bread recipe, these Bisquick Cheddar Biscuits or Foccacia bread to serve with the soup, and dip pieces of bread in the soup!

    For side dishes, any of these salad recipes go wonderfully with this soup!

    Soup ladle holding broccoli cheddar soup
    Delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup

    More soup recipes: This Instant Pot cauliflower soup is a similar recipe that you’ll love adding to the rotation. Also, our buffalo chicken soup is another soup that gives that creamy, comforting texture!

    Love using your Instant Pot? Our readers have really fallen in love with this Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot and it’s one of our favorite Instant Pot recipes too! (Over 100 reviews!)

    Top tip

    We all love a good shortcut but sometimes those shortcuts can make a recipe sacrifice flavor. So if you have time and don’t mind spending a little bit of time, shred your own cheese. The creaminess of the real, shredded cheddar, is hard to beat! Plus, the storebought shredded cheese can contain an “anti-caking” ingredient that doesn’t allow cheese to melt as well as self-shredded.

    Faq’s

    Why is my Broccoli Cheddar soup gritty?

    It could be because the milk wasn’t properly added to the soup, and it caused it to curdle. See the steps below on how to add colder milk to the warmer soup for the best results.

    Can I freeze broccoli cheddar soup?

    Yes. It freezes really well, for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow the soup to fully cool before placing in a freezer-safe container to freeze.

    Why won’t my cheese melt in my broccoli cheddar soup?

    If using pre-shredded cheese from the store, and it had too much of the “anti-caking” properties, that doesn’t allow it to melt smoothly.

    Storage

    When leftover soup has cooled, place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup on spoon over bowl of soup
    Print Pin
    5 from 2 votes

    Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

    This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a Panera Bread copycat recipe that uses simple ingredients and is ready in just 30 minutes!
    Course Main Course, Soup
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 20 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 385kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)

    Ingredients

    • 10 Tablespoons butter divide
    • onion small, chopped
    • 2 celery stalks large, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic minced
    • ½ cup flour
    • 2 cups milk
    • 3 cups chicken broth
    • 3 cups broccoli chopped
    • 1 carrot large, shredded
    • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon pepper

    Instructions

    • Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
    • When the butter melted, add the diced onion and celery.
      Sauté until the vegetables are tender. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

    • Add chicken broth to the cooked onions, garlic, and celery.

    • Add broccoli and carrots to the Instant Pot.
 Lock your lid in place and make sure your vent is sealed. Pressure for 2 minutes. 

      When the time is up, release the pressure and allow the steam to vent until you can open the lid. 

    • In the meantime, in a medium saucepan, melt 1⁄2 cup of butter. Slowly whisk in flour untilblended and creamy. Set aside. 

    • Turn your Instant Pot on to the sauté function.
      Add a cup of the hot broth from your instant pot to your butter/flour mixture and continue towhisk until blended.
    • Next, add the butter/flour mixture to your instant pot. Whisk until soup thickens.

    • Heat up your milk in microwave UNTIL VERY WARM. DO NOT BOIL. This will prevent the milk from curdling when adding it to the hot soup.
 Pour in to soup.
    • Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

    Notes

    How to Store:
    When soup has cooled, place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
     
    Can I freeze broccoli cheddar soup?
    Yes. It freezes really well, for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow the soup to fully cool before placing in a freezer-safe container to freeze.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 385kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 903mg | Potassium: 291mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 2454IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 404mg | Iron: 1mg

    Cookies and Cream Milkshake

    April 26, 2022

    Cookies and Cream Milkshake

    This creamy, dreamy cookies and cream milkshake doesn’t require any special ingredients to make. All you need is ice cream, milk, vanilla, and Oreos and you can have this ready in 15 minutes!

    Cookies and Cream Milkshake
    Cookies and cream milkshake – yum!

    I’m a bona fide ice cream lover, (remember our ice cream sandwich cake?) and that means that I obviously love a classic Oreo milkshake that’s made with simple ingredients. This one totally satisfies my milkshake cravings!

    Blend your favorite vanilla ice cream with some milk and vanilla extract, stir in some crushed Oreos and top it with your favorite toppings for a delicious homemade milkshake treat your whole family will love. (Possibly as much as they love these cookies and cream cinnamon rolls!)

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    Why you’ll love this recipe

    1. Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any special order ingredients to make this milkshake. Just simple things you can find in any grocery store!
    2. Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 15 minutes and would be a great one to let the kids help you with.
    3. Cookies & Cream Flavor: I personally think cookies and cream might be the very best milkshake flavor!
    4. Easy to Customize: This would make a great feature at a party! Create a milkshake bar, have someone make a big batch of the milkshake base and then let people stir in their own fun additions and add fun toppings!

    Ingredients

    Only a few everyday ingredients are needed to whip up this tasty milkshake treat!

    Ingredients to make cookies and cream milkshake.
    Ingredients.

    You can find a complete list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card below.

    • Vanilla ice cream – it seems everyone has their favorite brand when it comes to vanilla ice cream. Grab a tub of your favorite next time you’re at the store!
    • Milk – you can use any type of milk here, but the higher the milk fat content the creamier the milkshake will be. I like to use whole milk.
    • Vanilla extract – this isn’t completely necessary, but it adds amazing vanilla flavor to your shake!
    • Oreos – this cookies and cream milkshake wouldn’t be complete with…the cookies!
    • Optional toppings – you can get creative here and top your cookies and cream shake with your favorite toppings. I like whipped cream, some Oreo cookie crumbs and a maraschino cherry on top!

    How to make this cookies and cream milkshake recipe

    Three pictures of making a cookies and cream milkshake - two of blenders with ingredients, one of the finished product.
    Making a cookies and cream milkshake.
    1. Thaw Ice Cream: Slightly thaw your favorite vanilla ice cream before beginning – about 10 minutes on the counter works great.
    2. Crush Oreos: Crush 5 oreo cookies into chunks by putting it in a ziploc bag and smashing with a hammer or rolling it with a rolling pin – or just use your hands. You want it crushed into large chunks of cookies – not fine dust.
    3. Scoop Ice Cream: Scoop the slightly softened ice cream into a blender.
    4. Add Liquid: Add vanilla and ¼ cup milk.
    5. Blend: Blend well. If you want the milkshake to be thinner, add more milk, mixing between additions until you get the thickness you prefer.
    6. Add Oreos: Dump in the crushed Oreos and pulse ever so slightly just to incorporate into the milkshake mixture. (You want to have large chunks!)
    7. Make It Pretty: Pour into 2 chilled glasses (this recipe makes about 2 cups of milkshake, so you can have one large milkshake or two smaller ones). Top with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, homemade chocolate sauce, cherries, and chunks of cookies!
    8. Serve: Serve & enjoy!

    Serving Suggestion: For a pretty presentation, drizzle a little chocolate syrup onto the sides of the glasses and freeze before preparing the milkshake.

    What to serve with this cookies and cream milkshake?

    I think that the perfect way to serve a milkshake is alongside a burger and fries. It’s a classic combination for a reason.

    But you could also serve this milkshake as a dessert after any meal or as an easy dessert on its own!

    A cookies and cream milkshake with oreos and a maraschino cherry on top.
    Yummy milkshake goodness!

    More single serving desserts: If you’re looking for another quick and delicious dessert to make for one, you have to try this vanilla mug cake. It’s ready in 7 minutes and made in a mug in the microwave!

    More yummy drinks: If you’re looking for a fun warm drink, you’ll love this hot strawberries and cream smoothie! It’s got the flavor of a strawberry milkshake, the warm comfort of hot chocolate, and it has fresh strawberries in it (so you get some extra fruit in your day).

    Substitutions

    • Dairy Free – I know some people can’t have dairy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a good milkshake! There are lots of great dairy free ice creams and milks out there you could use in this recipe (and Oreos are already dairy free, so no trouble there)!
    • Gluten Free – if you can’t have gluten, see if you can find a package of gluten free Oreos in your local store. If not, there are a lot of other gluten free chocolate sandwich cookies out there that would work, too.

    Variations

    This recipe is simple, but sometimes those ones are the easiest ones to play around with! By changing one of the ingredients, you create a whole new version. Here are a few suggestions…

    • Ice Cream – instead of vanilla ice cream, use your favorite flavor (chocolate ice cream, strawberry ice cream, mint ice cream, or even cookies and cream ice cream).
    • Cookies – by using a different kind of cookie you create a totally new milkshake!
    • Extract – you could try adding almond, coconut, or mint extract to your milkshake to compliment whichever ice cream and cookie combination you chose.

    Here are a few examples of what you could do:

    Strawberry ice cream + chunks of frosted circus animal cookies + vanilla extract.

    Chocolate mint ice cream + chopped peppermint patties + mint extract.

    …the options are endless!

    A cookies and cream milkshake.
    Loads of cookie bits for the ultimate cookies and cream flavor!

    Expert tips and FAQs

    What is the best milkshake combination?

    This is totally personal preference. I love the cookies and cream combination we created in this recipe, but I also listed a few other combinations I think would be delicious in the variations section of this blog post!

    How do you thicken a milkshake?

    The easiest way to get a thick milkshake is to add the milk little by little. If you add too much milk, your milkshake will get runny. If this does happen you can always add a bit of extra ice cream to help thicken it back up.

    How long do you blend a milkshake?

    It should only take about a minute to get a nice, creamy milkshake. If you enjoy your milkshakes a bit more on the lump side, cut that back to 30-45 seconds.

    Did you try this recipe? If you did, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment on this blog post, head over to my Instagram page, find me on Facebook, or search me up on Pinterest. It means the world to me when you leave your feedback about Fantabulosity’s recipes.

    Recipe

    Cookies and Cream Milkshake
    Print Pin
    5 from 3 votes

    Cookies and Cream Milkshake

    This creamy, dreamy cookies and cream milkshake doesn't require any special ingredients to make. All you need is ice cream, milk, vanilla, and Oreos and you can have this ready in 15 minutes!
    Course Dessert, Drinks
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes minutes
    Servings 1 serving
    Calories 748kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • Blender

    Ingredients

    • 3 scoops vanilla ice cream
    • ¼ – ⅓ cup milk
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla
    • 5 oreo cookies
    • chocolate syrup, whipping cream, maraschino cherries optional

    Instructions

    • Slightly thaw your favorite vanilla ice cream before beginning – about 10 minutes on the counter works great.
    • While it is thawing, crush 5 oreo cookies into chunks by putting it in a ziplock bag and smashing with a hammer or rolling it with a rolling pin – or just use your hands. You want it crushed into large chunks of cookies – not fine dust.
    • Scoop the slightly softened ice cream into a blender.
    • Add vanilla and ¼ cup milk.
    • Blend well. If you want the milkshake to be thinner, add more milk, mixing between additions until you get the thickness you prefer.
    • Dump in the crushed oreos and pulse ever so slightly just to incorporate into the milkshake mixture. (You want to have large chunks!)
    • Pour into 2 chilled glasses (this recipe makes about 2 cups of milkshake, so you can have one large milkshake or two smaller ones).
    • Top with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate sauce, cherries, and more crushed oreos!

    Notes

    SERVING SUGGESTION: For a pretty presentation, drizzle a little chocolate syrup onto the sides of the glasses and freeze before preparing the milkshake.
     

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 748kcal | Carbohydrates: 93g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 415mg | Potassium: 638mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 70g | Vitamin A: 934IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 342mg | Iron: 7mg

    Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

    April 24, 2022

    Chicken Pot Pie Casserole in white baking dish

    This chicken pot pie casserole recipe takes your classic chicken pot pie and uses biscuits to make the “pie crust”! Grab everyday ingredients, such as cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, vegetables, refrigerated biscuits, and a few other ingredients for a casserole ready to eat in only 45 minutes!

    It’s one of our most popular chicken casserole recipes, and similar to this Stove-Top Stuffing Chicken Casserole recipe, since it uses something other than noodles!

    Chicken pot pie casserole with biscuits on top in white baking dish

    Love the flavors and heartiness of chicken pot pie but want to make it even easier? This chicken pot pie casserole recipe uses refrigerated biscuits that you place on top of the chicken mixture in a casserole dish and bake!

    If you love casserole recipes, then you’re also going to love this tater tot casserole with chicken, this cheeseburger casserole and this Doritos chicken casserole will be new favorites too!

    chicken pot pie casserole bite on fork
    Creamy, chicken and vegetables

    Why you’ll love this Chicken Pot Pie “Bubble Up” Casserole

    1. “Bubble Up”: Sometimes called a “bubble up” casserole, the biscuits on top “rise” or “bubble up” during the cooking process, and after it cooks it looks amazingly delicious and fun!
    2. Simple Ingredients: Like your favorite chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food, made with everyday ingredients!
    3. Shortcuts: It calls for cooked chicken, so using something like a rotisserie chicken (you could even boil the rotisserie chicken for broth for later), or leftover chicken, speeds things up even more! Or frozen vegetables that you can heat up quickly in the microwave is a great way to speed things up, instead of using fresh vegetables.
    4. Family Favorite: This casserole has that creamy filling that classic chicken pot pie has, and it has the flavors of a chicken pot pie that the whole family will love!
    5. Freezer Meal: Good old comfort food never fails! Make this as a dish to take to someone in need, so they can freeze it and cook it whenever they need a fast dinner idea! (See freezer tips below and one of my secret weapons for quick meal plans too!)
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients for easy chicken pot pie casserole

    We love using a lot of shortcuts for this recipe to get a delicious dinner on the table fast! It calls for cooked chicken and cooked mixed vegetables, so that’s why it’s one of our favorite recipes to make with leftovers!

    But if you don’t have leftovers, there are some quick tips below to speed things up with certain ingredients!

    ingredients on table, labeled with names
    Ingredients

    You can find the complete list of ingredients and directions can be found in the recipe card below.

    • Cooked Chicken – we use about 2 chicken breasts, cooked & cut into ½ inch cubes (about 2-3 cups of chicken). You can bake, saute, or grill chicken, or even cook chicken quickly in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker. See substitutions for cooked chicken, below!
    • Cream of chicken soup – this helps make that creamy sauce that we love in traditional pot pie.
    • Milk – Whole, 2% or skim is just fine to use! Or try heavy cream if you have it on hand!
    • Sour cream – sour cream really helps give that texture that we all love in a creamy chicken pot pie.
    • Onion – To keep things easy, we like to use onion powder but if you prefer fresh onion, you absolutely can!
    • Seasoned salt – If you don’t have seasoned salt, you can use regular but seasoned salt is delicious and we love using that in so many recipes, like our cheeseburger sliders for the garlic butter that we brush on the rolls!
    • Pepper – regular black pepper is such a great addition to this dish for the perfect amount of spice.
    • Shredded cheddar cheese – what’s a casserole without shredded cheese? You’ll divide the cheese for mixing in and for sprinkling on top.
    • Mixed veggies – Any kind of cooked vegetables will work. We used a medley of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. If using frozen veggies, you’ll just want them to be cooked before adding them to this recipe, and remember to discard any excess water that may remain after thawing.
    • Refrigerated biscuits – We used Grands biscuits, but you can also make your own biscuits using Bisquick! See the notes below for making sure how the biscuits will fully cook.
    • Butter – you’ll brush the top of the flaky biscuits, after baked, with butter for an amazing, buttered flaky crust flavor!

    How to make chicken pot pie casserole

    This is the perfect weeknight meal, and can be ready in only 45 minutes! Here’s how:

    2 image collage with ingredients in bowl and then mixed in to baking dish
    Mix ingredients and bake!
    1. Preheat: Oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 glass or ceramic baking dish.
    2. Mix: In a large bowl, using only 1 cup of the shredded cheese, mix together all of the ingredients except for the biscuits and melted butter.
    4 image collages showing steps for chicken pot pie casserole
    Steps 3 and 4-6
    1. Bake: Pour chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and stir. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top of the mixture.
    2. Add Biscuits: Divide the top and bottom of each biscuit, separating each biscuit in half, so that they aren't as thick, so they’ll fully cook. Place 12 biscuits on top of the chicken and cheese mixture (do not overlap biscuits).
    3. Baking Time (2nd): For another 15-20 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
    4. Brush: The tops of biscuits with melted butter and serve!
    Slice of chicken pot pie on spatula, above dish
    Chicken pot pie serving

    What to serve with pot pie?

    For an easy weeknight meal, this great recipe is delicious with a lettuce salad, or even a quick and easy fruit salad!

    Easy casserole recipes: If you’re a fan of casseroles, then you’ll also love this southern broccoli casserole and this corn casserole, that we enjoy ALL year long; not just during the holidays!

    Quick weeknight dinners: We’ve compiled some of the best, easy dinner recipes for you, so you’ll always have something fun for the meal plan rotation!

    Substitutions

    • Chicken – Instead of cooking your own chicken, try using a rotisserie chicken, and shred it or grab some store-bought cooked chicken, such as canned chicken or you can even find cooked chicken in the deli of most grocery stores.
    • Mixed Vegetables – If you don’t have frozen vegetables as we used, you can use cooked, canned vegetables!
    • Onion – if you’d prefer real onions, you can sauté ⅓ cup chopped onion in 1 tablespoon of butter until tender before adding to the chicken mixture.
    • Biscuits – If you don’t want to split the biscuits in half, you can also cut each biscuit in to fourths. You can also do a lattice top, using strips of crescent rolls! (Just make sure to follow the cook time for crescent rolls, as the time may vary
    chicken pot pie casserole with biscuits on a white plate
    Delicious chicken pot pie casserole

    Storage

    If you have leftover chicken pot pie, store in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

    Top tip

    When you have small amounts of leftover vegetables from side dishes, during the week (such as corn, green beans, carrots, etc.) but it’s not enough to serve the whole family leftovers, try keeping a small bowl in the freezer, that you continually add leftover vegetables too. Then, when you collect 2 cups worth, you can use the vegetables for this chicken pot pie casserole!

    Faq’s

    Can I freeze chicken pot pie casserole?

    You can but do note: since the cooking process calls for baking first and then adding the biscuits before baking it a second time, it would be best to freeze without the biscuits. Prep to the point of pouring chicken mixture in to baking dish, then freeze. When serving, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and follow remaining steps.

    If your chicken pot pie is runny…

    This could be because frozen vegetables were used, and when thawed, the excess water was not discarded. Remember to drain any excess before adding to the recipe.

    Related Recipes

    If you love this easy dinner idea, then you’ll also love these new easy dinner recipes:

    • Church supper recipes collage.
      Church Supper Recipes
    • Close up of cooked salmon patties on a plate, with fresh parsley sprinkled on top.
      Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
    • A sliced, boneless pork chop that was baked in the oven, sitting on a plate.
      How to Cook Pork Chops in the Oven (Bone-In & Boneless Guide)
    • A wooden spoon dishing out a serving of meatball casserole in a 9x13 baking dish.
      Meatball Casserole

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    Chicken Pot Pie Casserole in white baking dish
    Print Pin
    5 from 4 votes

    Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

    This chicken pot pie casserole uses refrigerated biscuits for the pie crust, and other everyday ingredients to make this a quick, hearty dish!
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 30 minutes minutes
    Total Time 1 hour hour 45 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 servings
    Calories 449kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 cooked chicken breasts 2-3 cups – cut in to ½ inch cubes (or see blog post for substitutions)
    • 10.5 ounces can of cream of chicken soup
    • ½ cup milk
    • ½ cup sour cream
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder or 1 tablespoon minced onion
    • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
    • ⅛ teaspoon pepper
    • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
    • 2 cups cooked mixed vegetables frozen or canned work well
    • 1 can refrigerated biscuits We used Grands biscuits
    • 1 tablespoon butter melted

    Instructions

    Preheat & Prep:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 glass or ceramic baking dish.

    Mix:

    • In a large bowl, using only 1 cup of the shredded cheese, mix together all ingredients except for the biscuits and melted butter.

    Bake:

    • Pour chicken mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes.

    Top Casserole:

    • Remove from oven and stir. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of cheese on top of the mixture.
    • Separate each biscuit in half, dividing top and bottom so that they aren't as thick. Place 12 biscuits on top of the chicken and cheese mixture (do not overlap biscuits).

    Bake Again:

    • Bake for another 15-20 minutes or until biscuits are browned and cooked through.

    Brush:

    • Brush tops of biscuits with melted butter and serve!

    Notes

    Top Tip:
    When you have small amounts of leftover vegetables from side dishes, during the week (such as corn, green beans, carrots, etc.) but it’s not enough to serve the whole family leftovers, try keeping a small bowl in the freezer, that you continually add leftover vegetables too. Then, when you collect 2 cups worth, you can use the vegetables for this chicken pot pie casserole!
    Can you freeze this chicken pot pie casserole?
    You can. DO NOTE: since the cooking process calls for baking first and then adding the biscuits before baking it a second time, it would be best to freeze without the biscuits. Prep to the point of pouring chicken mixture in to baking dish, then freeze. When serving, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and follow remaining steps.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 449kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 904mg | Potassium: 396mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 2691IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 231mg | Iron: 3mg

    Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

    April 23, 2022

    beef stroganoff in black skillet

    This beef stroganoff recipe is an old-fashioned favorite that’s easy to make for a quick weeknight dinner. You only need ground beef, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, and a few other simple ingredients and it’s a dinner that’s ready in 30 minutes!

    Spoonful of beef stroganoff

    Needing a quick weeknight dinner recipe? This classic beef stroganoff recipe is a delicious recipe, that’s a comfort food favorite, that the whole family will love, much like this easy chicken pot pie recipe.

    If you love easy dinner recipes, then you’ll want to see this amazing list of 80+ easy dinner ideas!

    ground beef stroganoff in black skillet

    Why You’ll Love this Recipe

    1. Quick Meal: It’s ready in only 30 minutes!
    2. Simple Ingredients: You can find all of the ingredients at your local grocery store! No fancy, hard-to-find ingredients here!
    3. Last-Minute Dinner Idea: Forget to plan dinner? You may already have the ingredients on hand to make this tonight! If not, try this lemon chicken pasta that you’ll also love!
    4. Creamy Sauce: This easy-to-make sour cream sauce, also uses milk, and mushroom soup which makes it such a great recipe! (Similar to how we make simple chicken and noodles for a quick dinner!)
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    The Ingredients in Classic Beef Stroganoff

    Only simple ingredients for this easy beef stroganoff recipe!

    You can find the complete list of ingredients and directions can be found in the recipe card below.

    • Egg noodles – original beef stroganoff typically calls for egg noodles but you can use a different kind of pasta or noodle if you prefer. Such as fettuccini noodles, elbow, rotini, etc.
    • Can of cream of mushroom soup – doesn’t get much easier than a soup that can help create a creamy mushroom sauce!
    • Onion – fresh white onion is our favorite but you can use a yellow onion or even minced, frozen chopped, or dried onion if that’s what you have on hand! I’ve even considered adding onion soup mix in to this recipe!
    • Ground beef – Any kind of ground beef should do, just make sure to drain after it has fully cooked, if necessary. (Make sure to see these other dinner recipes with ground beef.) I’d be curious what ground chicken here would look like but saving it for this ground chicken meatloaf may be a better idea.
    • Sour cream – adding a little sour cream can really help give that rich sour cream gravy that smooth flavor that we love in this recipe.
    • Milk – this creamy beef stroganoff wouldn’t be nearly as good without the creaminess of milk, half and half or heavy cream. You could use either one for this recipe but you may want to use a little more milk if you find that your stroganoff is too thick.
    • Fresh parsley – this is optional but it adds an amazing color!
    • Salt – you may find that you want more/less than what this recipe calls for but remember, you can always add it but you can’t take it away, if you use too much! Taste test!
    • Pepper – just a small amount of black pepper is all this needs for the perfect touch!

    How to make this traditional beef stroganoff

    collage of 3 images showing how to make beef stroganoff
    Recipe steps
    1. Boil Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. 
    2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large saucepan, brown ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks; drain the fat. Add onion and cook until translucent (about 1 minute).
    3. Make Sauce: Stir soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper into the meat.
    4. Simmer: Cook over medium heat for just a few minutes, stirring often, until hot and bubbly.
    5. Combine: Add the noodles into the sauce and mix.
    6. Serve: Top with chopped parsley and serve.

    What to Serve with Beef Stroganoff?

    When serving something as comforting and warm as this dish, this homemade Italian bread hits the spot! Or having a nice easy side salad helps get in those extra veggies you’ve been looking for!

    beef stroganoff cooked in black pan
    Ready to eat!

    More quick pasta dinners: why not add a new pasta dish to your meal rotation! This 30-minute taco pasta or chicken bacon ranch pasta may just become new family favorites! Or, using cheese and hamburger together to make this stovetop beefy mac and cheese is always a good choice!

    Pasta recipes you’ve never heard of: If you’re feeling adventurous, this creamy cream cheese pasta, pasta with corn and tomatoes, and this baked feta pasta, are two recipes that will help mix up the same old recipes during the week!

    Substitutions

    • Rice – instead of using pasta, you can use rice, such as brown or white rice.
    • Mashed Potatoes – Instead of pasta or rice, you could even spoon the beef stroganoff over mashed potatoes for an old-fashioned dinner!
    • Meat – want to use something other than ground beef? No problem. Try ground turkey or even sausage for a different flavor spin!

    Sometimes you may find it necessary to substitute items and experiment with what you have on hand. So feel free to try other common ingredients such as cream cheese, beef broth (or beef stock), to add more creaminess or to thin it out.

    If you’d like to add more flavors or season it even more, you may like to try adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce, white wine, soy sauce, or even dijon mustard for some zing!

    Faq’s

    What is the best cut of meat for beef stroganoff?

    For traditional beef stroganoff, ground beef is preferred in our house. However, you can also use other using tender strips of beef such as sirloin steak (top sirloin), which we think is the best cut of meat. If you have tougher cuts of meat, such as stew meat, you could even put it in a pressure cooker before hand if you like for a more tender meat result.

    How do you keep sour cream from curdling in beef stroganoff?

    This could be because your sour cream was really cold when added in to the meat mixture. It can help to temper your sour cream by adding a small amount of the warm mixture in to the sour cream, stirring (to warm it up a bit), and then adding it to the rest of the dish to continue cooking.

    Is beef stroganoff supposed to be thick?

    We prefer it to be on the thicker side but if you like it to be more “thin” you can definitely add a little milk to it, to reach the consistency you prefer!

    Storage

    If you happen to have leftover stroganoff, let it cool off, and then you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply reheat the stroganoff by placing it in the microwave or heating it on low, in a saucepan. (You may need to add a little milk to help thin it out if the noodles soaked up most of the creamy brown gravy.)

    Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a review below to let me know what you thought! Then next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

    Recipe

    beef stroganoff in black skillet
    Print Pin
    4.75 from 8 votes

    Beef Stroganoff – Quick & Easy!

    This beef stroganoff recipe is an old-fashioned favorite that's easy to make for a quick weeknight dinner, using egg noodles, cream of mushroom, and other simple ingredients!
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 25 minutes minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes minutes
    Servings 4 servings
    Calories 573kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 4 cups dry medium egg noodles
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • ½ cup chopped onion
    • 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 ounces
    • ¾ cup milk half & half or heavy cream can be used as well
    • ½ cup sour cream
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon pepper
    • chopped fresh parsley for garnish

    Instructions

    • Boil Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. 
    • Cook Ground Beef: In a large saucepan, brown ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks; scraping from the bottom of the pan, and then drain the fat. Add onion and cook until translucent (about 1 minute).
    • Make Sauce: Stir soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper into the meat.
    • Simmer: Cook over medium heat for just a few minutes, stirring often, until hot and bubbly.
    • Combine: Add the noodles into the sauce and mix.
    • Serve: Top with chopped parsley and serve.

    Notes

    See blog post notes for substitution ideas and tips to make it the best beef stroganoff recipe!
    Storing Leftovers: Allow to cool off, and then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 573kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 139mg | Sodium: 942mg | Potassium: 630mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 278IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 4mg

    Fruity Pebbles Treats

    April 23, 2022

    fruity pebbles treats on white plate

    Fruity Pebbles Treats: Your favorite classic no-bake dessert with a fruity twist, using fruit flavored rice cereal to make crispy treats!

    Fruity Pebbles Treats stacked on white plate

    Why You’ll Love These Fruity Pebble Rice Crispy Treats

    The combination of soft, gooey marshmallows with crispy cereal, like in classic rice krispie treats, is absolutely delicious. But using fruity cereal instead of plain Rice Krispies, gives these a flavor that so many will love and is one of our favorite easy snacks! You’re also going to want to try these Lucky Charms treats!

    This no bake dessert is also one that can be made at that the last minute. You can also keep the ingredients on hand for the times when you need something quick, such as an after school snack, especially during warmer weather months as a summer snack idea, so you’re not heating up the oven!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    It doesn’t take a lot of ingredients to make this Fruity Pebbles rice krispie recipe.

    • 3 tablespoons butter
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 package (10 oz., about 40) marshmallows or 5 ½ cups of mini marshmallows
    • 6 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal
    ingredients on table for fruity pebble treats
    Ingredients

    Ingredients

    • 3 tablespoons butter
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla
    • 1 package (10 oz., about 40) marshmallows or 6 cups of miniature marshmallows
    • 6 cups fruity rice cereal, such as Fruity Pebbles

    See the recipe card toward the end of this post for ingredients and detailed instructions all in one place for these cereal treats.

    Instructions

    1. First, grease or butter a 9×13 baking dish, and set aside.
    2. Next, melt butter in large saucepan (big enough to eventually hold all 6 cups of Fruity Pebbles) over low heat.
    3. Once you have completely melted butter, pour marshmallows in and gently melt on low heat, stirring constantly, until all marshmallows have melted.
    4. Next, add in vanilla extract and stir to fully combine.
    marshmallows in stockpot
    melt butter and marshmallows
    add in vanilla in to stockpot
    add in vanilla
    1. Pour in Fruity Pebbles and stir to combine cereal and melted marshmallows until it looks evenly combined.
    Fruity Pebbles added to pot
    Add Fruity Pebbles
    cereal stirring in to marshmallows
    Stir to mix with marshmallow mixture
    1. When combined, pour Fruity Pebbles mixture in to prepared baking dish and press cereal mixture to flatten and reach sides. You’ll want this to be flattened, in to an even layer.
    Fruity Pebble treat mixture poured in to dish
    Pour in greased baking dish

    Tip: If pressing with your hands, spray hands with non-stick cooking spray, so the gooey marshmallow doesn’t stick to your hands. If using the back of a wooden spoon to flatten, spray that as well. (You could also use a greased or buttered spatula as well.)

    Slice Fruity Pebble treats in to squares
    Cut in to squares
    1. Allow resting time for marshmallows to cool (about 10 minutes) and then slice in to squares. You can slice them as big or as small as you like but we tend to slice them in about 12 squares.

    Substitutions

    • Instead of a buttered or greased baking dish, you may choose to use parchment paper and that’s ok too! Or, you can use a sheet of wax paper if you prefer.
    • Love the idea of this fun treat but looking to mix things up? Try some of your other favorite cereals. Who knows what kind of other delicious treats you can come up with!
    Stacked Fruity Pebble treats on white plate
    Enjoy!

    Storage

    If you happen to have leftover Fruity Pebbles rice krispie treats, you can store them in an airtight container, at room temperature for a couple of days. They do tend to get hard and are better, the sooner you eat them!

    Bake Sales and Farmers Markets

    These sweet treats are PERFECT for selling at fundraising events or markets! Package them up in to small treat bags, or even wrapped in plastic wrap.

    Related Recipes

    We’re HUGE fans of no bake desserts and treats around here. So if you love these then you’ll also love the caramel rice krispy treats, and these Oreo Rice Krispie Treats!

    If you love Fruity Pebbles as much as we do, then you’ll also love this Fruity Pebbles Ice Cream!

    Recipe

    fruity pebbles treats on white plate
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Fruity Pebble Treats

    Fruity Pebbles Treats: Your favorite classic no-bake dessert with a twist, using fruity rice cereal to make crispy treats!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 2 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cooling Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 17 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 squares
    Calories 179kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 3 tablespoons butter
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 5 ½ cups miniature marshmallows or 10 oz., about 40 regular marshmallows
    • 6 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal

    Instructions

    • First, grease or butter a 9×13 baking dish, and set aside.
    • Next, melt butter in large saucepan (big enough to eventually hold all 6 cups of Fruity Pebbles) over low heat.
    • Once butter has melted, pour marshmallows in and gently melt on low heat, stirring constantly, until all marshmallows have melted.
    • Next, add in vanilla extract and stir to fully combine.
    • Pour in Fruity Pebbles and stir to combine cereal and melted marshmallows until it looks evenly combined.
    • When combined, pour Fruity Pebbles mixture in to prepared baking dish and press cereal mixture to flatten and reach sides. You'll want this to be flattened, in to an even layer.
    • Allow resting time for marshmallows to cool (about 10 minutes) and then slice in to squares. You can slice them as big or as small as you like but we tend to slice them in about 12 squares.

    Video

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1square | Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 147mg | Potassium: 17mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 587IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 1mg

    Red Velvet Donuts

    April 22, 2022

    Three red velvet donuts stacked on top of each other.

    Red Velvet Donuts: These mouth-watering red velvet donuts are so easy to make you’ll hardly believe it. All you’ll need is red velvet cake mix, ripe bananas, and some cream cheese frosting!

    The festive color of these yummy red velvet donuts makes them the perfect treat to serve for special occasions like the Fourth of July, Valentine’s Day, or even Christmas morning.

    Three red velvet donuts stacked on top of each other.
    Red velvet donuts

    Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Donuts

    I never turn down a good donut, especially if it comes with a little bit of coffee. But these red velvet donuts? They’re on a whole other level. They have all that classic red velvet flavor (complete with the tangy cream cheese glaze) in the convenient packaging of a donut! (Super fun, right? Similar to these brownie donuts!)

    The best part of these moist donuts is that they are not only delicious (but let me tell you, they sure are), they are also SO easy to make. This is the kind of recipe you can make on a moment’s notice with things you can keep in your pantry at all times.

    Plus, if you’re a fan of red velvet, you’ll also love this red velvet cupcakes recipe, these red velvet cookies made with a cake mix, and this red velvet sheet cake with ermine frosting.

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    Ingredients

    This easy recipe requires simple ingredients that you can keep in your pantry so you’ll be ready to whip up a batch of these red velvet donuts on a whim! Having a recipe on hand that doesn’t take a long time to make is perfect for last-minute guests.

    You’ll need:

    • 1 box red velvet cake mix, dry
    • 2 cups mashed ripe bananas
    • 1 – 16 oz container cream cheese frosting
    • Red sugar sprinkles (or sprinkles of your choice!)
    • Cooking spray
    • Ziploc bag or pastry bag
    Ingredients required for red velvet donuts.
    Ingredients

    Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cake Donuts

    1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and spray your donut mold(s) with nonstick spray.
    2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher.
    Mashed bananas in a bowl.
    Mash bananas
    1. Stir in the dry red velvet cake mix until just combined.
    Mashed bananas with red velvet cake mix on top of them in a bowl.
    Add cake mix.
    Red velvet donut batter in a bowl.
    Stir to combine.
    1. Pour the mixture into a large plastic bag or piping bag. Cut the tip off of one corner of the bag and pipe batter into donut cavities until they are about ⅔ full.
    Donut batter piped into donut pan.
    Fill donut pan.
    1. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes, or until the donuts are cooked through and a toothpick inserted in the donut comes out clean.
    Baked donuts in a donut pan.
    Bake 7-8 mins.
    1. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.
    2. Add the frosting to a microwave safe bowl and microwave cream cheese frosting for 10-20 seconds for a runny consistency (this makes dipping easier).
    3. Dunk each cooled donut upside down into the frosting and return to the cooling rack right-side up. Follow immediately with sprinkles on top of the donuts before the frosting sets. 
    A red velvet donut being dipped in a bowl of cream cheese icing with a bowl of red sprinkles beside it.
    Dunk donuts in melted frosting, add sprinkles
    1. Allow to fully cool before serving, enjoy!
    Iced red velvet donuts on a wire rack.
    Let cool, serve & enjoy!

    Substitutions

    This recipe doesn’t call for very many ingredients, so there aren’t very many substitutions. That being said…

    • Bananas – 2 cups of applesauce can be used to replace the bananas.

    Variations

    Although there aren’t many substitutions, there are lots of ways you can create variety with this recipe.

    • Cake Mix – this recipe is for red velvet donuts, but if you switched out the cake mix you could make something different entirely!
    • Sprinkles – swap out the sprinkles to make these festive for the specific occasion you are making them for. Do red and green for Christmas, pink and hearts for valentine’s day, blue and red for the Fourth of July. You get the idea!
    • Other Toppings – you can get as creative as you like with the toppings on a donut. Crunch up some ripple chips and drizzle it with chocolate sauce. Add some crispy bacon bits and drizzle it with maple syrup. The sky’s the limit.
    • Frosting – personally I’m a big fan of the delicious cream cheese glaze in this recipe, but if you don’t like cream cheese frosting you can try your favorite frosting in its place!

    Equipment

    To make these red velvet donuts, you will need a donut pan. This donut pan is similar but any donut pan will do. If your pans only hold 6 donuts, you’ll need to have two of them or bake two separate batches.

    Storage

    Store in an airtight container for up to 1-2 day at room temperature, or 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

    You can also freeze these donuts unfrosted in a freezer safe, airtight container for up to a month.

    Iced red velvet donuts on a wire rack.
    Sweet treat…mmm!

    Expert tips and FAQs

    What is the difference between baked and fried donuts?

    The difference is mostly in the baking method. A baked donut will be cooked in the oven, where as a fried donut is usually deep fried in oil.

    Most of the time, a baked donut will be more of a cake donut as well and a fried donut will be made with yeast dough.

    What can I use instead of eggs in donuts?

    Your in luck, because this donut recipe doesn’t call for any eggs at all! If you are using a different recipe and it calls for eggs, you could try replacing it with a cornstarch egg, or look for a vegan egg alternative in your local grocery store.

    Is a donut a baked good?

    You betcha! Donuts would be classified as a “baked good”, and these donuts, in particular, are both baked and goooooood.

    Related Recipes

    If you’re looking for more red velvet recipes, check out our red velvet cake mix cookies and our red velvet cupcakes with chocolate chip frosting (trust us, that one’s a winner)!

    Or you can browse the latest dessert recipes on the blog…

    • Cherry bread with cherry icing on wooden cutting board.
      Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
    • A collage of old-fashioned dessert recipes
      Old-Fashioned Desserts Everyone Knows and Loves
    • Blueberry dump cake, with serving spoon resting in pan.
      Blueberry Dump Cake (Easy, Buttery Dessert with Fresh Berries)
    • Cherry dump cake topped with homemade whipped cream, served in a dessert bowl.
      Cherry Dump Cake (Easy 3-Ingredient Dessert)

    Recipe

    Three red velvet donuts stacked on top of each other.
    Print Pin
    5 from 1 vote

    Red Velvet Donuts

    Red Velvet Donuts: These mouth-watering red velvet donuts are so easy to make you'll hardly believe it. All you'll need is red velvet cake mix, ripe bananas, and some cream cheese frosting! 
    Course Breakfast, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 8 minutes minutes
    Cooling Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 28 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 donuts
    Calories 177kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • 2 donut pans like this (or one donut pan if it holds 12)
    • ziploc bag or pastry bag

    Ingredients

    • cooking spray
    • 1 box red velvet cake mix dry
    • 2 cups ripe bananas mashed
    • 1 – 16 ounce cream cheese frosting
    • red sugar sprinkles or sprinkles of your choice

    Instructions

    • Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and grease your donut baking pan(s).
    • In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher.
    • Stir in the dry red velvet cake mix until just combined.
    • Pour the mixture into a large ziploc bag. Cut the tip off of one corner of the bag and pipe the batter into each donut cavity about ⅔ full.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes, or until the donuts are cooked through and a toothpick inserted in the donut comes out clean.
    • Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.
    • Add the frosting to a microwave safe bowl and warm in the microwave for 10-20 seconds for a runny consistency (this makes dipping easier).
    • Dunk each donut upside down into the frosting and return to the cooling rack right-side up. Follow immediately with sprinkles on top of the donuts before the frosting sets. 
    • Allow to fully cool before serving, enjoy!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store in an airtight container for up to 1-2 day at room temperature, or 5-7 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze these donuts unfrosted in a freezer safe, airtight container for up to a month. 
    SUBSTITUTIONS: 2 cups of applesauce can be substituted for the bananas.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1donut | Calories: 177kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 297mg | Potassium: 208mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 17IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 2mg

    Soft Pretzel Recipe

    April 20, 2022

    Soft Pretzels stacked on a plate.

    Soft Pretzel Recipe: Warm, soft, salty and delicious – this homemade soft pretzel recipe is every bit as good as the ones you get from the store and it’s easier to make than you think!

    Imagine dipping a warm pretzel into this delicious golden pretzel cheese dip or gooey, cheesy smoked queso dip? Now THAT’S a party appetizer.

    Pretzel cheese dip surrounded by soft pretzels on a wood tray.
    Soft Baked Pretzels

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    Pretzels are so fun to make, and the best part is that they don’t require any fancy ingredients at all! That means anytime you have a hankering for a pretzel, you can just whip some up.

    It honestly kind of amazes me how a simple dough can turn into a pretzel with amazing, chewy texture just by adding a secret, pretzel-making step (don’t worry, I’ll tell you what it is)!

    I know that yeast bread products can be a bit intimidating to some, but I promise it’s not that tough. I’ll walk you through this easy soft pretzel recipe step-by-step, and by the end of this post you’ll be ready to run to the kitchen and get started on your own homemade soft pretzels!

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    What You’ll Need:

    Nothing fancy here, just a few things that most of us have in the pantry already. And if you don’t? You can easily find these at your local grocery store.

    • 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
    • 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ cup baking soda
    • pretzel salt or coarse sea salt
    Ingredients for soft pretzels.

    Instructions

    1. Mix the yeast and lukewarm 1 ½ cups of water in a small bowl until the yeast is dissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes, until foamy.
    Yeast and warm water in a small bowl.
    Mix yeast & water in small bowl.
    1. Mix the kosher salt, brown sugar, and flour together in the bowl of a stand mixer or a large bowl. Add the water and yeast mixture.
    2. If you are using a stand mixer, fit it with a dough hook attachment and mix on low speed until the dough has formed a smooth ball. If you are not using a stand mixer, use a rubber spatula to combine the ingredients into a shaggy ball. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until it forms a smooth ball, about 8 minutes.
    Dry ingredients for soft pretzels in a measuring cup.
    Combine dry ingredients, add yeast mixture.
    Ball of pretzel dough.
    Mix until smooth ball forms.
    1. Place the smooth ball of dough in an oiled large bowl and cover with a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled, about 1 hour.
    Dough in a glass bowl.
    Put dough in bowl & cover.
    Dough after proofing and doubling in size.
    Let rise 1 hour.
    1. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. Punch down the ball of dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
    Divide dough into 8 pieces.
    Divide dough into 8 pieces.

    Shaping the Pretzel Dough

    1. Form each piece of dough into a ball and begin rolling it out into a long rope, about 1.5 feet long and 2 inches in diameter. To do this, start in the middle of the ball and roll it away from you, slowly moving your hands to the edges of the rope. When you reach the end of the rope, move back to the middle and repeat the process again so the rope has an even thickness.
    One ball of pretzel dough rolled out into a long rope-like line.
    Roll dough into a rope.
    1. After you form a rope, bend it into a "U" shape.
    Pretzel dough formed into a U shape.
    Make a U shape.
    1. Cross the right side over the left side to create a small circle at the top and two tails coming out the bottom.
    Pretzel dough with tails crossed over each other.
    Cross right side over left.
    1. Turn over the dough at the crossover point to create a twist. You will still have a small circle and two tails.
    Pretzel dough twisted once.
    Create a twist.
    1. Fold the two tails / ends of the rope over the circle with the twist lying in the middle of the circle to create the classic pretzel shape. Press down lightly where the tails meet the circle to keep them adhered. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheet and cover with a damp kitchen towel so they can rest and rise again.
    Finished raw pretzel placed on baking sheet.
    Set on baking sheet.
    Raw pretzel dough after rising the second time.
    Cover & let rest/rise.

    Baking the Soft Pretzels

    1. While the pretzels are resting, preheat the oven to 450F. Bring 10 cups water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Make sure all of the baking soda is dissolved.
    2. Dip 1 to 2 pretzels at a time in the boiling water for 20 to 30 seconds (psst, this is that secret step I told you about). If they are left for longer, they will develop a metallic baking soda taste. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and hold them above the pot for a couple of seconds to allow excess water to drip off.
    3. Place them back on the baking sheet and sprinkle with the desired amount of salt. Make sure to sprinkle the pretzel salt on while the pretzels are still wet so the salt will stick.
    4. Bake the pretzels for 15-18 minutes or until they are a little darker than golden brown. You can serve them warm or let them cool completely on a wire rack. They can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days at room temperature, but are best served fresh.
    Finished, baked pretzels stacked on top of each other.
    Yum!

    Substitutions

    • Salt – if you don’t have pretzel salt or coarse sea salt, you can lightly dust the pretzels with table salt after boiling. I wouldn’t recommend this, though. Even though it will give you a bit of that salty flavour, the larger crystals used on pretzels are less salty (I know, salt is kind of crazy when you learn more about it) and the finished product will taste different.

    Variations

    There are basically two ways to get creative with a soft pretzel recipe – with things you mix into the dough, or with things you sprinkle on top. Here are some of my suggestions (some are sweet, some are savoury)…

    Mix-Ins

    • shredded cheddar cheese
    • cinnamon and raisins
    • chopped bacon
    • Italian spices
    • chopped strawberries
    • chopped red peppers

    Toppings

    • Crunchy onion and jalapeno toppers
    • Everything bagel spice
    • cinnamon sugar
    • sesame seeds
    • parmesan cheese

    These lists could go on forever, but you get the idea! You can get creative and make your pretzel exactly the way you want it.

    Storage

    Your homemade pretzels can be stored (after cooling) in an airtight container for 2 days at room temperature, but they are best served fresh.

    The salt on top can draw moisture out of the pretzels and make the crust soggy, so skip adding the salt if you plan to serve them a long time after baking. If you plan to make these ahead of time, you can brush the pretzels with melted butter to get the salt to stick and sprinkle on the salt as desired right before serving. 

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Why do you boil soft pretzels before baking? Do you HAVE to boil pretzels before baking?

    The boiling step is actually super important when making pretzels. When you put the pretzel in the boiling water, it instantly puffs up and the exterior begins to cook a bit. This gives it a head start on forming that classic chewy, crisp pretzel crust.

    The baking soda lowers the pH of the outside of the pretzels making them more alkaline. Alkaline things brown more easily, so this baking soda bath gives pretzels their characteristic crust and flavor.

    If you skip the boiling step, you’ll get more of a pretzel shaped bun and less of a chewy golden pretzel. We would NOT recommend skipping it.

    How do you get salt to stick to pretzels?

    The key to getting the salt to stick to your pretzels is to put it on while the pretzels are still wet from their boil time. If you find that they still aren’t sticking, you could also brush your pretzels with an egg wash and then stick the salt to them. The egg wash will help hold the yummy salt bits on the pretzel as it bakes.

    What to serve with soft pretzels?

    The answer to this really depends whether you were trying to create a sweet or savoury soft pretzel experience.

    If you wanted a sweet soft pretzel, you could serve it with Nutella, melted chocolate, a sweet dip (like our pumpkin fluff cool whip dip), or even charcuterie style with some fruit and spreads!

    If you were trying to create more of a savory pretzel experience, our favorite would be to serve it with our pretzel cheese dip (see the variations in that post to find out how you can turn it into a beer cheese dip or a mustard cheese dip)! You could also serve it with our smoked queso dip!

    The dough is shrinking when I try to roll it out. What should I do?

    This is a result of the gluten that formed during kneading. If the dough is snapping back into a shorter length, leave it to rest for a couple of minutes and then continue. This will give the gluten time to relax and it won’t shrink as much.

    Related Recipes

    Looking for more yummy, bread type goodness? Why not try our quick and easy focaccia bread or our easy Italian white bread?

    You can also see other bread recipes that you’ll love:

    • Strawberry Bread loaf with Strawberry Icing, dripping down the side.
      Strawberry Bread with Strawberry Icing
    • Sliced lemon blueberry bread with lemon glaze.
      Lemon Blueberry Bread
    • Stack of homemade hush puppies on white plate, with one split open to show the inside.
      Hush Puppies
    • Sweet cornbread muffins stacked on a plate.
      Sweet Cornbread Recipe

    Recipe

    Soft Pretzels stacked on a plate.
    Print Pin
    5 from 7 votes

    Soft Pretzel Recipe

    Soft Pretzel Recipe: Warm, soft, salty and delicious – this homemade soft pretzel recipe is every bit as good as the ones you get from the store and it's easier to make than you think!
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 30 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes minutes
    Rest Time 1 hour hour
    Total Time 1 hour hour 50 minutes minutes
    Servings 8 pretzels
    Calories 228kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
    • 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ cup baking soda
    • pretzel salt like this one

    Instructions

    Making the Dough

    • Mix the yeast and lukewarm water in a small bowl until the yeast is dissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes, until foamy.
    • Mix the kosher salt, brown sugar, and flour together in the bowl of a stand mixer or a large bowl. Add the water and yeast mixture. 
    • If you are using a stand mixer, fit it with a dough hook and mix on low speed until the dough has formed a smooth ball. If you are not using a stand mixer, use a rubber spatula to combine the ingredients into a shaggy ball. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until it forms a smooth ball, about 8 minutes.
    • Place the smooth ball of dough in an oiled large bowl and cover with a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled, about 1 hour.
    • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. Punch down the ball of dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into 8 even balls.

    Shaping the Dough

    • Form each portion into a ball and begin rolling it out into a long rope, about 1.5 feet long and 2 inches in diameter. To do this, start in the middle of the ball and roll it away from you, slowly moving your hands to the edges of the rope. When you reach the end of the rope, move back to the middle and repeat the process again so the rope has an even thickness.
    • After you form a rope, bend it into a "U" shape. 
    • Cross the right side over the left side to create a small circle at the top and two tails coming out the bottom. 
    • Turn over the dough at the crossover point to create a twist. You will still have a small circle and two tails. 
    • Fold the two tails over the circle with the twist lying in the middle of the circle to create the classic pretzel shape. Press down lightly where the tails meet the circle to keep them adhered. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheet and cover with a damp kitchen towel so they can rest and rise again.

    Baking the Pretzels

    • While the pretzels are resting, preheat the oven to 450F. Bring 10 cups water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Make sure all of the baking soda is dissolved. 
    • Dip 1 to 2 pretzels at a time in the boiling water for 20 to 30 seconds. If they are left for longer, they will develop a metallic baking soda taste. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and hold them above the pot for a couple of seconds to allow excess water to drip off. 
    • Place them back on the baking sheet and sprinkle with the desired amount of salt. Make sure to sprinkle the salt on while the pretzels are still wet so the salt will stick.
    • Bake the pretzels for 15-18 minutes or until they are a little darker than golden brown. You can serve them warm or let them cool completely on a wire rack. They can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days at room temperature, but are best served fresh.

    Notes

    STORAGE: Your baked pretzels can be stored (after cooling) in an airtight container for 2 days at room temperature, but they are best served fresh.
    The salt on top can draw moisture out of the pretzels and make the crust soggy, so skip adding the salt if you plan to serve them a long time after baking. If you plan to make these ahead of time, you can brush the pretzels with melted butter to get the salt to stick and sprinkle on the salt as desired right before serving. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1pretzel | Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2344mg | Potassium: 67mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 3mg

    Breakfast Waffle Charcuterie Board

    April 15, 2022

    A breakfast waffle charcuterie board.

    Breakfast Waffle Charcuterie Board: This beautiful breakfast charcuterie board is perfect for special occasions, a baby shower, or really any day. It’s quick and easy to put together, but it looks so impressive!

    Quick Overview: Make your waffles, such as these blueberry Belgian waffles, or even these chocolate waffles, and prepare your fresh fruit. Arrange waffles on the board, add small bowls of yummy toppings, fill in the spaces with fruit, and voila! Serve this epic breakfast board with a side of air fried bacon or sausage links for a breakfast people will rave about!

    Close up of the breakfast waffle charcuterie board.

    Why You’ll Love This Food Board Idea

    Charcuterie boards are, in my opinion, the most fun way to display food! Charcuterie boards are so beautiful, and they also offer people a lot of options to customize their meals (Especially at Christmas time with this Christmas Charcuterie!)

    But can you have a charcuterie board for breakfast? OF COURSE!

    This breakfast platter is a delicious example. You get to fill the board with your favorite fruits, waffle toppings, syrups/spreads, and some delicious waffles (or other carbs, see the variations later on in this post)! If you’re a breakfast fan like me, then your mouth is probably watering by now.

    This easy brunch charcuterie board is perfect for any time, but I think it would be especially fun at Easter brunch, Valentines Day brunch, or Mother’s Day!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    When it comes to charcuterie boards, you can use whatever ingredients your heart desires! That being said, we have a list of ingredients that we think will create the best waffle-eating experience. Here’s what you’ll need…

    • Blueberry Waffles (or for fun, these colorful waffles!)
    • Blueberries 
    • Bananas 
    • Kiwis
    • Grapes 
    • Strawberries
    • Blueberry syrup 
    • Granola
    • Nutella 
    • Whipped Cream
    • Yogurt
    Ingredients for the breakfast waffle charcuterie board.

    What does “charcuterie” mean?

    Charcuterie is a French term that, when literally translated, means “a store selling cold cooked meats”. These days, charcuterie typically refers to a platter that has a mix of cold meats, cheeses, and sweet and savory items.

    What is normally on a charcuterie board?

    The general formula for a charcuterie board is:

    • Good cheese(s)
    • Cured meat(s)
    • Pickled items
    • Condiments and spreads (sweet and savory)
    • Fresh fruit 
    • Often nuts or other salty items
    • And then crackers or other carbs fill in the remaining spaces

    This charcuterie breakfast board is a bit of a twist on the traditional charcuterie boards, but we think it’s a great way to serve up breakfast favorites with flair! (You could even put these breakfast egg rolls on the board for fun!) You’ll even find a lot of other charcuterie board ideas to get tons of ideas from.

    How to Create a Waffle Charcuterie Board

    1. Prepare your blueberry waffles
    2. Wash and prepare all of your fruits. 
    3. Prepare all of your toppings by placing them in bowls, then set them aside. 
    4. Once your waffles are ready, break them up into quarters and place them in a decorative pattern on a 12 x 18 (or similar) charcuterie board or wooden cutting board. Feel free to get creative! 

    Don’t have a charcuterie board or wooden cutting board? There are other suggestions below for what you can use!

    Waffles on a cutting board.
    Arrange waffles.
    1. Next, add in all of your prepared toppings sporadically around the waffles. 
    Waffles and toppings on a cutting board.
    Add toppings.
    1. Lastly, add all of the previously prepared fruits carefully to fill the remaining empty spaces and complete your breakfast charcuterie board.
    Breakfast waffle charcuterie board.
    Add fruit.
    1. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, serve your breakfast or brunch board, and enjoy! 
    Waffles with yummy toppings and fruit on a plate.

    What can I use as a charcuterie board?

    If you don’t have a charcuterie board or wooden cutting board, here are a few ideas of what you can use in its place…

    • Large serving platter – if you have a nice big platter of any kind, you can turn it into a charcuterie board!
    • Wood board – If you have any large, food safe wood board it would work beautifully for this charcuterie board.
    • Cookie sheet – use a baking sheet or tray to serve your breakfast waffle charcuterie. You can line your sheet pans with wax paper if you like.
    • Serve it on the table – you heard us right, you can lay down some wax paper on the table and create your charcuterie board right there!

    Variations

    The ingredients we listed in this recipe are the ones we think make for a great waffle charcuterie board, but you can absolutely play around with other ones!

    Carbs

    • Instead of waffles, make mini pancakes! We would suggest trying our amazing fluffy pancakes from scratch or our quick and easy blueberry pancakes.
    • Instead of waffles or pancakes, you could also make this a French toast charcuterie board (or heck, why not mix all three)! Our brioche french toast would be amazing for a charcuterie board.
    • Replace the waffles on the board with mini bagels! If you do this, omit the syrup and add a spread instead.
    • Try throwing some mini cinnamon rolls on there for good measure (you won’t regret it).
    • You could use English muffins as the main carb. If you do this, omit the syrup and add a spread instead (like jam or marmalade).

    Savory Options

    • Add a bowl of crumbled, crispy bacon to the board to sprinkle over your waffles!
    • Cream cheese is a delicious addition to a waffle breakfast. Just make sure it’s nice and soft so it can be spread on the waffle without ripping it.
    • Thinly shaved salmon would be delicious (especially on top of the cream cheese we mentioned)!
    • Add some sliced cheese (brie, cheddar, whatever your family likes) to the board.

    Sweet Treats

    • Instead of Nutella, serve peanut butter as a waffle/pancake/bagel topping.
    • Instead of blueberry syrup, try maple syrup.
    • Fresh berries (blackberries, strawberries, raspberries).
    Waffle board close up image.
    Yum!

    Storage

    Store your waffles, toppings, and fruit in separate, airtight containers in the fridge for 3 days.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    How do I keep my waffles warm until I’m ready to serve without them getting soggy?

    This can be a challenge, for sure! The best way to keep them warm is to put a wire rack on top of a baking tray and store that in a warm oven (170-200°F). Once a waffle comes off the iron, pop it straight in there until you are ready to load up your charcuterie board!

    What drink goes well with a breakfast waffle charcuterie board?

    You can’t go wrong with a classic glass of OJ, but you could also try making something super fun and festive like this orange sherbert punch. The kids will LOVE it.

    Related Recipes

    If you liked this breakfast waffle charcuterie board, be sure to check out some of our other fun hosting ideas like how to make a fruit platter, our yogurt and pudding bar and our coffee bar set-up (which would be so fun to do alongside this breakfast waffle charcuterie board)!

    Or you can check out the latest breakfast recipes on the blog…

    • Bagel French Toast casserole in the crock pot.
      Crock Pot Bagel French Toast Casserole
    • Crock Pot rice pudding in small bowl.
      Crock Pot Rice Pudding
    • White gravy recipe on top of biscuits next to bacon on a vintage plate.
      White Gravy Recipe
    • A slice of Amish applesauce cake on plate with fork.
      Amish Applesauce Cake

    Recipe

    A breakfast waffle charcuterie board.
    Print Pin
    5 from 5 votes

    Breakfast Waffle Charcuterie Board

    Breakfast Waffle Charcuterie Board: This beautiful breakfast charcuterie board is perfect for special occasions, a baby shower, or really any day. It's quick and easy to put together, but it looks so impressive!
    Course Breakfast, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 servings
    Calories 243kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • Blueberry Waffles
    • Blueberries
    • Bananas
    • Kiwis
    • Grapes
    • Strawberries
    • Blueberry Syrup
    • Granola
    • Nutella
    • Whipped Cream
    • Yogurt

    Instructions

    • Prepare blueberry waffles.
    • Wash and prepare all of your fruits. 
    • Prepare all of your toppings by placing them in bowls, then set them aside. 
    • Once your waffles are ready, break them up and place them in a decorative pattern on a 12 x 18 (or similar) charcuterie board. Get creative! 
    • Next, add in all of your prepared toppings sporadically around the waffles. 
    • Lastly, add all of the previously prepared fruits carefully filling the remaining empty spaces to complete your breakfast charcuterie board. 
    • Serve and enjoy! 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 243kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 222mg | Potassium: 260mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 624IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 136mg | Iron: 3mg

    Blueberry Waffles Recipe

    April 15, 2022

    Blueberry waffles on a plate, drenched in syrup.

    Blueberry Waffles: With a few simple ingredients like milk, eggs, flour, and fresh blueberries you can whip up homemade blueberry waffles and have them on the table in 30 mins! Perfect for family weekend breakfasts or brunch with friends!

    Make a side of air fryer bacon and some honey lime fruit salad to go along with your blueberry waffles, or even make this waffle charcuterie board, and you’ve got the makings of the best breakfast or brunch you’ve ever tasted!

    Syrup being poured on blueberry waffles that are stacked on a plate with blueberries and whipped cream on top of them.
    Blueberry Waffles

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t love a warm, fluffy, homemade waffle. (Especially these Belgian chocolate waffles and this rainbow waffle recipe.) And with the addition of juicy blueberries, now who could say no to that? Adding blueberries is the perfect way to change up a classic waffle recipe.

    This blueberry waffles recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a delicious breakfast entree that can be eaten for breakfast any day of the week or dressed up for a fancy brunch!

    This is the best waffle recipe to have on hand for the next time you are looking for a quick, delicious breakfast recipe! Check out our suggestions for some fun things you can top your blueberry waffles with, below.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    I think the key to a good waffle is being able to whip it up last minute for weekend breakfast, or waffle burger, and still know that it will turn out amazing. This blueberry waffles recipes uses ingredients you probably have in the house already, so it’s the perfect waffle recipe to have in your back pocket!

    You’ll need:

    • 2 cups milk, room temperature
    • 2 medium eggs, room temperature
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 2 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh (but concentrate also works)
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 3 tablespoons white sugar
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
    • 2 cups fresh blueberries, divided
    • cooking spray
    • blueberry syrup (optional)

    Make sure to visit the recipe card below for all of the ingredients and instructions!

    Ingredients for blueberry waffles.

    Instructions

    1. Preheat waffle maker (we used a Belgian waffle maker, but you can use whatever you have).
    2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of milk, 2 medium eggs, 4 tablespoons melted butter, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and blend until combined.
    Milk, eggs, butter, vanilla, maple syrup in a bowl.
    Place wet ingredients in bowl.
    Wet ingredients for blueberry waffles mixed in a bowl.
    Whisk together.
    1. In a large bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon and ensure all dry ingredients are well combined.
    The dry ingredients for blueberry waffles in a glass bowl, ready to be mixed.
    Mix dry ingredients.
    1. Next, combine wet ingredients in the medium mixing bowl into the dry ingredients. Whisk until combined. Allow some lumps to remain in the batter.
    2. Once wet and dry ingredients are combined, using a rubber spatula gently fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries. Allow the batter to rest for 15 minutes.
    Blueberry waffle batter in a glass bowl.
    Combine wet and dry ingredients.
    1. Spray the waffle maker with cooking spray. Add approximately ⅓ cup of batter to the waffle maker and cook waffles for approximately 5-7 minutes (or until golden brown and crisp).
    Blueberry waffle batter on a waffle maker bottom iron.
    Pour batter on hot waffle iron.
    A cooked blueberry waffle sitting on the bottom iron of a waffle maker.
    Cook 5-7 mins.
    1. Garnish with the remaining blueberries and syrup (or whatever your favorite way to enjoy waffles looks like) and enjoy!

    Still have blueberries left over? This skillet blueberry cobbler is so easy to make and will be a great dessert for later.

    A close up photo of blueberry waffles.
    Belgian waffles with blueberries.

    Substitutions

    If you need to make some changes, this is what we would suggest:

    • Milk – You can replace milk with your favorite dairy free alternative (almond milk or coconut milk would be delicious)!
    • Eggs – If you need to omit the eggs, you could use a cornstarch egg instead. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and use this instead of an egg.
    • Butter – You can replace butter with your favorite type of oil if you like (vegetable oil, coconut oil, or olive oil would all work nicely).
    • Maple Syrup – I used real maple syrup for this recipe, but if you don’t have that on hand you could try using honey or even sugar in its place.
    • Fresh Blueberries – If you don’t have pounds of blueberries on hand, you can always use frozen blueberries instead! Add the frozen berries right into the batter, and use the frozen blueberries to make a compote for the topping.

    Variations

    Regular waffles are all well and good, but fluffy waffles with yummy bits in (or on) them are even better! Here are a few ideas for how you can change up this recipe if you want to (although it’s pretty great the way it is now).

    • Lemon Zest – Give your waffles a little extra fresh flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest into the batter!
    • Fresh Fruit – If blueberries aren’t your thing, you can replace them with your favorite fruit! Try cut up strawberries, fresh raspberries, bananas, or whatever sounds yummy to you.
    • Chocolate Chips – You can add these instead of the blueberries or in addition to them. Either way, chocolate chip waffles sound delicious to me (and the kids will love them).
    • Blueberry Almond Waffles – Replace the milk in this recipe with almond milk and replace the vanilla extract with almond extract to create a nutty twist on the original recipe!

    Equipment

    I used a Belgian waffle maker for this recipe, but if you have a different style you can absolutely use it! Just be sure not to overfill the waffle maker or your batter will leak out the edges (and make a big old mess).

    Storage

    Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.

    You can also freeze your waffles after allowing them to cool completely! Once they are cool, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You’ll probably find that placing parchment paper between the waffles will keep them from sticking. To reheat, place your waffle in a microwave, an air fryer, or a toaster oven until fully reheated.

    blueberry belgian waffle with butter on top

    What toppings can you put on waffles?

    You might be wondering, “What goes good with blueberry waffles?” and to that we would say - so many things! Here is a list of some of our favorites:

    • More Blueberries - I love topping my blueberry waffles with more fresh blueberries. Can there ever really be too many blueberries? I think not.
    • Whipped Cream
    • Blueberry Syrup
    • Honey (try it, it’s yummy!)
    • Other Fresh Fruits - Mix it up a bit and try putting some fresh raspberries and fresh strawberries on top!
    • Chocolate Sauce - The kids (and chocolate lovers) will like this one. Try drizzling some chocolate sauce over your blueberry waffles!
    • Blueberry Sauce – If you like a thicker topping than syrup, you could make a blueberry sauce/compote and put it all over your blueberry waffles.
    • Ice Cream – Waffles aren’t just for breakfast! Imagine a blueberry waffle with a scoop of ice cream and some blueberry syrup on it served as a dessert - how delicious would that be? You could cut the waffle into quarters if an entire waffle feels a bit too big.
    • Maple Syrup – You can’t go wrong with a classic! Add a drizzle of maple syrup to your blueberry waffles.

    Or you can experiment and add a bunch of these toppings together!

    Blueberry waffles on a platter.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Do blueberry waffles have real blueberries?

    Those blueberry waffles in the freezer section of the grocery store might not have real blueberries in them, but this yummy blueberry waffle recipe is packed full of them!

    How do you make blueberry waffles without sticking to the waffle iron?

    I recommend using cooking spray to pre-spray your waffle maker to prevent this exact problem from happening. The one I find works the best is Kirkland brand spray, but there are lots of great options out there.

    Why are my waffles not crispy?

    Sometimes a soggy waffle is due to the recipe (too much moisture, not enough leavening agent) but more often than not it has to do with what you do after it’s done cooking!

    The best way to serve a waffle is straight off the waffle maker and onto a plate to be eaten right away. If you can’t do that, I recommend keeping a baking tray with a wire rack set on top of it in the oven on the warming setting. By putting your waffles on the wire rack instead of right on the baking tray, you allow the warm air to circulate and keep both sides of your waffle crispy. Make sure you don’t overlap the waffles, either, because that will cause them to get soggy as well.

    Related Recipes

    If you are looking for delicious, easy-to-make breakfast foods then you HAVE to try our easy blueberry turnovers or these buttermilk blueberry muffins! We love a good pastry around here, and this one is so easy and so delicious. It’s almost as good as our blueberry pancakes (another big winner in our house)! Or check out our super fun, waffle breakfast sandwiches!

    Or you can try one of these new breakfast recipes:

    • 3-ingredient biscuits stacked on vintage plate.
      3-Ingredient Biscuits
    • A slice of applesauce crumb cake on spatula, being held above pan.
      Applesauce Crumb Cake
    • Wooden spoon holding a serving of fried pears, in a cast iron skillet.
      Fried Pears
    • Smooth slow cooker apple butter in small bowl, sitting next to canned jars of apple butter.
      Slow Cooker Apple Butter

    Recipe

    Blueberry waffles on a plate, drenched in syrup.
    Print Pin
    5 from 4 votes

    Easy Blueberry Waffles Recipe

    Blueberry Waffles: With a few simple ingredients like milk, eggs, flour, and fresh blueberries you can whip up homemade blueberry waffles and have them on the table in 30 mins! Perfect for family weekend breakfasts or brunch with friends!
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 7 minutes minutes
    Rest Time 13 minutes minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes minutes
    Servings 6 7-inch waffles
    Calories 403kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups milk room temperature
    • 2 medium eggs room temperature
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh (but concentrate also works)
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 3 tablespoons white sugar
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
    • 2 cups fresh blueberries divided
    • cooking spray
    • blueberry syrup optional

    Instructions

    • Preheat waffle maker (we used a Belgian waffle maker, but you can use whatever you have).
    • In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of milk, 2 medium eggs, 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and blend until combined.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon and ensure all dry ingredients are well combined.
    • Next, combine wet ingredients in the medium mixing bowl into the dry ingredients. Whisk until combined. Allow some lumps to remain in the batter.
    • Once wet and dry ingredients are combined, using a rubber spatula gently fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries. Allow the batter to rest for 13 minutes.
    • Spray waffle maker with cooking spray. Cook waffles for approximately 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
    • Garnish with the remaining blueberries and syrup, enjoy!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store leftover blueberry waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
    You can also freeze your waffles after allowing them to cool completely! Once they are cool, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You’ll probably find that placing parchment paper between the waffles will keep them from sticking. To reheat, place your waffle in a microwave, an air fryer, or a toaster oven until fully reheated.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1, 7-inch waffle | Calories: 403kcal | Carbohydrates: 63g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 445mg | Potassium: 463mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 471IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 217mg | Iron: 3mg

    Avocado Tomato Mozzarella Salad

    April 15, 2022

    avocado tomato mozzarella salad in white bowl

    Avocado Tomato Mozzarella Salad: Or also called, a Caprese salad, is an easy salad recipe that can be made in minutes, and is the ultimate side dish!

    avocado tomato mozzarella salad in white bowl
    Avocado Tomato Mozzarella Salad

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    If you love quick and easy side dishes, then this simple salad recipe to hang on to! It can be put together in just a few minutes and can even be made ahead of time!

    Note: I’ve found if you refrigerate tomatoes, they tend to lose the flavor so I actually prefer to make this right before serving to experience the bright flavors, but it’s not mandatory, and can be made in advance.

    Ingredients

    It’s so wild to believe that just a few ingredients can pack a punch of flavor! See the ingredients you need to make this, below, with extra ideas and substitutions provided below, if needed, as well!

    ingredients for caprese salad
    Ingredients
    • fresh mozzarella cheese pearls
    • red ripe tomato
    • fresh basil leaves
    • olive oil (extra virgin is our favorite)
    • salt

    Instructions

    1. Begin by breaking up the mozzarella pearls and placing them in a medium-size bowl.
    mozzarella pearls in glass bowl
    Break up mozzarella in bowl
    1. Next, slice up the avocado and the tomato in to small, bite-size pieces.

    Tip: When slicing the tomato, we’ve found it’s best to remove the inside (gooey part of the tomato) as this makes the salad a different texture and seedy).

    Diced avocado
    Slice avocado
    Sliced tomatoes on cutting board
    Slice tomatoes
    1. Pour diced avocado and diced tomato on top of mozzarella pearls.
    avocado added to mozzarella in bowl
    Add avocado
    tomato added to bowl
    Add tomato
    1. Chop fresh basil and add to bowl.
    2. Drizzle olive oil on and sprinkle kosher salt on top.
    fresh basil added to bowl
    Add fresh basil
    salt added to bowl
    Add salt
    1. Stir to combine.
    ingredients for salad stirred together
    Stir to combine

    Serve!

    avocado tomato mozzarella salad in white bowl
    Ready to serve

    Substitutions

    Cheese: If you don’t have mozzarella pearls on hand, you can absolutely use a ball of mozzarella that you slice in to small pieces. That creamy mozzarella is to die for and much better than shredded, powdery mozzarella.

    You can also substitute feta or goat cheese (or your favorite cheese) if you like! It’s a versatile recipe, that tends to incorporate different cheeses well.

    Tomatoes: You can use roma or vine tomatoes for this recipe, or even cherry tomatoes if you prefer. (Note: I’d slice the cherry tomatoes in half for easier bites.)

    Basil: Using fresh ingredients like basil, is our absolute FAVORITE but I know keeping that on hand can be more difficult than keeping a jar of dried basil in the pantry. Feel free to use dried if you like. We’ve used that many times and it’s still delicious!

    Variations

    If you love adding balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze, or balsamic dressing) to your avocado Caprese salad recipe, you can definitely add that to this one. I’d add a teaspoon to start, and then add more after tasting if you prefer a stronger flavor.

    Additional Items – If you’d like to add other items or spices to this, here are some ideas you may like to try:

    • Garlic Powder
    • Chicken (to create a main course)
    • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
    • Dashes of Hot Sauce
    • Cumin
    • Red Onions
    • Black pepper

    How to store

    As mentioned earlier, when a tomato is refrigerated, it can tend to become more firm and lose flavor. However, if you happen to have some of this leftover caprese avocado salad, it must be stored in the refrigerator.

    Store in an airtight container, or by placing plastic wrap over the bowl it was made in, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

    Love avocado and tomato together?

    We absolutely love using any extra tomatoes and avocados that we may have on hand, to make tomato avocado toast the next morning! It’s so easy and refreshing for a quick and healthy breakfast idea!

    Avocado Tip

    It’s best to use ripe avocados! Soft to the touch, on the skin but not too soft… as those are too ripe. If you cut in to the avocado and there’s brown everywhere, you’ll want to discard it. A beautiful green is the desired ripeness.

    I know how hard it is, to keep avocados on hand before they rot.

    Note, I’ve made this recipe a TON, only using the cheese and tomatoes, without the addition of avocado and it’s STILL delicious!

    But here are tips on how to help keep avocados from turning brown!

    Looking for other healthy side dishes?

    I’ve compiled all of our healthy side dish recipes in case you are looking to add more to your meal plan!

    Recipe

    avocado tomato mozzarella salad in white bowl
    Print Pin
    5 from 2 votes

    Avocado Tomato Mozzarella Salad

    Avocado Tomato Mozzarella Salad: Or also called, a Caprese salad, is an easy salad recipe that can be made in minutes, and is the ultimate side dish!
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Diet Vegetarian
    Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes minutes
    Servings 4 servings
    Calories 98kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 tomato roma or vine
    • 1 avocado
    • 1 package mozzarella pearls or mozzarella ball
    • pinch Kosher salt
    • ¼ teaspoon fresh basil or dried
    • ½ Tablespoon olive oil

    Instructions

    • Break mozzarella pearls apart and place in medium sized mixing bowl.
    • Chop tomatoes and avocado in to small, bite-size pieces and add to bowl.
    • Chop fresh basil in to small pieces, and sprinkle on to veggies and cheese.
    • Drizzle olive oil on to mixture and sprinkle on the salt.
    • Stir to combine and then serve!

    Video

    Notes

    Tip: Remove seeds and insides of tomato and discard. Adding this to the salad is not ideal. 
    Storing:
    When a tomato is refrigerated, it can tend to become more firm and lose flavor. However, if you happen to have some of this leftover chopped caprese salad, it must be stored in the refrigerator.
    Store in an airtight container, or by placing plastic wrap over the bowl it was made in, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving (¼ recipe) | Calories: 98kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 280mg | Fiber: 3g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 7.2mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.3mg

    This delicious avocado caprese salad is one of my favorite staple weeknight recipes. I hope you give it a try and that it becomes one of your favorite salads too!

    Instant Pot Tri Tip

    April 14, 2022

    sliced tri tip with brown gravy

    Instant Pot Tri Tip: Found at the grocery store, Tri tip is an affordable cut of meat, and is wonderful made as a roast in this Instant Pot recipe.

    sliced roast, gravy and carrots and potatoes
    Instant Pot Tri Tip

    Quick Overview: Pressure cook on high for 30 minutes and natural release. Optional gravy recipe included!

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    Similar to cooking a pot roast in the Instant Pot, this tri tip in the Instant Pot is not only easy but it is an affordable cut of meat that makes a wonderful roast! It helps you accomplish those dinner goals with minimal effort!

    This Instant Pot tri-tip recipe also uses simple ingredients so it’s nice that you can usually keep the ingredients on hand for a quick Sunday dinner idea (or busy weeknight dinner) that the entire family will love!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    Although we used potatoes and carrots in this recipe, you can leave those out if you prefer, and the roast will still cook the same way! There’s just something about adding potatoes and carrots to a roast recipe, so we include it in our oven-baked chuck roast recipe and our dutch oven beef stew recipe, too!

    Here’s what you’ll need:

    ingredients for instant pot tri tip
    Ingredients

    Tri-Tip Ingredients

    • 2 to 2.5 pound tri tip roast (it’s a cut of beef that has a triangular shape)
    • 1 Tablespoon paprika
    • 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
    • 1 Tablespoon onion powder
    • 1 Tablespoon black pepper
    • 1 Tablespoon dried rosemary
    • 1 Tablespoon kosher salt
    • 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (this can make it pretty spicy for kiddos – either omit or cut in ½)
    • 2 Tablespoon butter
    • 4 cups of beef broth
    • 1 pound baby potatoes
    • 4-5 carrots, peeled and cut in to small sticks

    Gravy, if desired:

    • 5-6 tablespoons of flour
    • 5-6 tablespoons of water
    • meat drippings

    See recipe card toward the bottom of this post for full instructions.

    Instructions

    1. This tri-tip that we used was about 2.5 pounds. But yours may be slightly different in size, yet the cooktime should remain the same, as long as it’s within 2 to 2.5 pounds.
    Raw tri tip on white plate
    Tri Tip ready to cook
    1. Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried rosemary, kosher salt, brown sugar and crushed red pepper (if desired), together in small bowl.
    spices in white bowl
    spices for rub
    spices mixed together in white bowl
    Mix spices
    1. Then, rub spice mixture on both sides of the meat, massaging it in to the meat.
    Spice rubbed tri tip on platter
    Rub spice blend on tri tip
    1. Turning the saute function on, on your Instant Pot, add the butter and allow it to melt.
    2. Once butter has melted, place tri tip in pot and sear each side of the tri tip for 5 minutes on each side.
    sear tri tip in butter on saute
    Sear one side
    Trip tip searing in Instant Pot
    Sear other side
    1. Then remove the instant pot tri-tip roast from the Instant Pot and set aside.
    Trip tip removed from Instant Pot
    Remove seared tri tip
    1. Pour a small amount of beef broth in to instant pot and using a wooden spoon (or similar) scrape brown bits of cooked meat/spices off the bottom of the pot.
    2. Next, place trivet (metal rack) inside of Instant Pot.
    Beef broth poured in pot
    Pour in some broth, and scrape
    Place trivet in Instant Pot
    Insert trivet in to pot
    1. Place tri tip on metal rack and, if desired, pour any leftover spices on top of meat.
    tri tip back in instant pot
    Place tri tip back in pot
    pour rest of broth in to pot
    Pour rest of broth in to pot
    1. Pour in beef broth, pouring around the roast, so it doesn’t wash spices off.
    2. Next, add in the potatoes and carrots.
    3. Pressure cook on high for 30 minutes, and then allow to natural release.
    veggies added in to pot
    Add veggies in to pot
    cooked veggies and tri tip
    Cooked tri tip and veggies

    How Long to Pressure Cook a Tri-Tip

    My Instant Pot is an 8 quart – and the natural release took about 35 minutes. This time may vary for different sizes.

    You CAN use the quick release method, if you’re in a rush but I prefer to naturally release it because I believe it helps make a tender meat or tender roast.

    cooked tri tip, potatoes and carrots
    Cooked tri tip, potatoes and carrots

    How to Make Gravy for Tri-Tip

    If you would like to make a gravy for the tri tip, our favorite method is using the drippings that remain in the pot.

    1. Remove veggies and roast from pot and leave drippings.
    Cooked tri tip with veggies
    Cooked Tri Tip and Vegetables
    1. In small bowl, mix cold water and flour until smooth.
    2. Add in a few spoonfuls of the meat drippings and mix together until smooth.
    flour and cold water in white bowl
    Flour and cold water
    drippings added in to flour mixture
    Add in drippings to flour mixture
    1. When smooth, pour in to pot of drippings and turn Instant Pot on to “saute” and let gravy cook and stir (with a whisk) until thickened.
    brown gravy from drippings in bowl
    Brown gravy

    Gravy Tip: Before serving, we found it best to pour gravy in to a mesh colander, to separate any fat, etc. for a “cleaner” gravy but it’s not necessary.

    Gravy poured on tri tip and vegetables
    Tri Tip Roast with Gravy

    Substitutions

    If you prefer to switch out some of the spices, feel free too! The wonderful thing about roast, is that it can be flexible with your favorite spices.

    Although we use beef broth in this recipe, feel free to use vegetable broth or even chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand or prefer.

    If you prefer to leave out the brown sugar, for less sugar… you absolutely can. The brown sugar just gives it a hint of sweet to go with the salty spice flavor.

    Olive oil can be used instead of butter if you prefer.

    Tri tip roast with vegetables on fork
    Tri tip with vegetables

    Soon, you’ll have a delicious meal that may just become your new favorite easy recipe!

    Equipment

    I used an 8 quart Instant Pot but this can also be made in a 6 quart. The only difference is that it could take less time to come to pressure if using a smaller Instant Pot.

    You may also use a different brand of electric pressure cooker or even a stovetop pressure cooker but do note that the times may vary for a pressure cooker tri tip.

    What to Serve with Tri-Tip

    This tri tip can pair perfectly with delicious breads, such as Italian baked bread, this easy Focaccia bread, or even these cheddar biscuits! But if you have a slow cooker, we absolutely love having these crock pot cheesy hashbrowns with them!

    Storage

    If you have leftover Instant Pot tri-tip roast and/or gravy, allow to fully cool and then place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

    To reheat, you can microwave leftovers or even place in the oven in an oven-safe baking dish.

    Top Tip

    If you find that your roast is tough, it could be the cut of meat. You can also try pressure cooking a little longer, around 15-30 minutes to see if it becomes more tender.

    More Tri-Tip Recipes

    If you love tri tip steak, roast or this cut of meat, you will absolutely love this smoked tri tip recipe! (We found our tri tip at Costco and two came in a pack so we made one in the pressure cooker and smoked one, and then made tri tip tacos with leftoves!)

    Recipe

    sliced tri tip with brown gravy
    Print Pin
    4.97 from 28 votes

    Instant Pot Tri Tip

    Instant Pot Tri Tip: Found at the grocery store, Tri tip is an affordable cut of meat, and is wonderful made as a roast in this Instant Pot recipe.
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 30 minutes minutes
    Pressure Release 35 minutes minutes
    Total Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 414kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Equipment

    • Pressure Cooker

    Ingredients

    • 2 pound tri tip roast 2 to 2.5 pound will work
    • 2 tablespoons butter salted or unsalted
    • 1 tablespoon paprika
    • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
    • 1 tablespoon onion powder
    • 1 tablespoon black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
    • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper this can make it pretty spicy for kids – either omit or cut in half
    • 4 cups beef broth
    • 1 pound baby potatoes
    • 4 carrots peeled and sliced in to small sticks

    Tri Tip Roast Gravy, if desired

    • 5 tablespoons flour
    • 5 tablespoons cold water
    • meat drippings

    Instructions

    • This tri-tip that we used was about 2.5 pounds. But yours may be slightly different in size, yet the cooktime should remain the same, as long as it's within 2 to 2.5 pounds.
    • Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried rosemary, kosher salt, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper (if desired), together in small bowl.
    • Then, rub spice mixture on both sides of the meat, massaging it in to the meat.
    • Turning the saute function on, on your Instant Pot, add the butter and allow it to melt.
    • Once butter has melted, place tri tip in pot and sear each side of the tri tip for 5 minutes on each side.
    • Then remove the instant pot tri-tip roast from the Instant Pot and set aside.
    • Pour a small amount of beef broth in to instant pot and using a wooden spatula (or similar) scrape brown bits of cooked meat/spices off the bottom of the pot.
    • Next, place trivet (metal rack) inside of Instant Pot.
    • Place tri tip on metal rack and, if desired, pour any leftover spices on top of meat.
    • Pour in beef broth, pouring around the roast, so it doesn't wash spices off.
    • Next, add in the potatoes and carrots
    • Pressure cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, and then allow to natural release. For my 8 quart, this took about 35 minutes of natural release. You can, if in a hurry, manual release but I feel that the natural release results in a more tender roast.

    Tri Tip Gravy Instructions, if desired

    • Remove veggies and roast from pot and leave drippings.
    • In small bowl, mix cold water and flour until smooth. Add in a few spoonfuls of the meat drippings and mix together until smooth.
    • When smooth, pour in to pot of drippings and turn Instant Pot on to the sauté setting and let gravy cook and stir (with a whisk) until thickened.
    • Gravy Tip: Before serving, we found it best to pour gravy in to a mesh colander, to separate any fat, etc. for a "cleaner" gravy but it's not necessary.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 414kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 108mg | Sodium: 1375mg | Potassium: 1021mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 7601IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 82mg | Iron: 4mg

    Easter Snack Mix – Bunny Bait

    April 12, 2022

    easter snack mix - bunny bait in white bowl

    Easter Snack Mix: This “Bunny Bait” is not only easy but it’s a fantastic Easter dessert idea, and perfect to snack on at an Easter celebration!

    Quick Overview: Grab a large mixing bowl, baking sheet, and just a few of your favorite ingredients and you’ll have Easter mix, ready to eat, in minutes!

    easter snack mix in white bowl
    Easter Snack Mix – Bunny Bait

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    This bunny bait trail mix is super flexible, meaning you can use whatever candy or cereal you prefer! I mean, when it’s covered in melted white chocolate chips, it’s hard not to love!

    When we shared the bunny bark recipe, and the no bake Easter egg truffles, I knew that this easy sweet chex mix recipe had to be next! They’re all such delicious Easter ideas! It’s similar to a mix that we make every Christmas too, which is this Christmas snack mix, and it’s a hit for any holiday!

    TIP: Have candy leftovers from the Easter charcuterie board? Mix it in with this Easter snack mix!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Snack Mix Ingredients

    Even though I’ll provide a list of ingredients for this recipe, please feel free to change things up! It’s very similar to our Leprechaun Bait recipe, for St. Patrick’s Day, so it’s very versatile for any holiday.

    You’ll just want to make sure you keep the melted chocolate and dry cereal ratio the same… so you have enough chocolate to cover it! (But also feel free to use different types of cereal.)

    ingredients in small bowls for snack mix
    Ingredients
    • 2 cups rice Chex
    • 1 cup cheerios
    • 1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch
    • 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
    • 1 cup peanut m&m's 
    • ¼ cup Easter sprinkles (or pastel colors)
    • ½ cup jelly beans
    • 1 cup Cadbury mini eggs (like we used in these mini egg cookies!)

    See recipe card toward the bottom of the post for full instructions and ingredients, all in one place!

    Instructions

    1. First, thinking ahead, grab a large baking sheet and cover it completely with parchment paper.
    2. Next, melt the chocolate baking chips in a microwave safe bowl (a big bowl) (large enough that the cereal will fit in it after the chocolate is melted) following the package directions for melting. (Most will be to melt on half-power for 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Do NOT overcook.)
    white chocolate chips in bowl
    White chocolate baking chips
    melted white chocolate chips
    Melt chips
    1. Once the chocolate is completely melted, pour your dry cereal in to the bowl of white chocolate and carefully give it a good stir to mix, trying to make sure all of the cereal becomes covered.
    dry cereal mixture in bowl
    Cereal in large bowl
    chocolate poured over cereal
    mix chocolate and cereal
    1. Pour in half of the sprinkles and stir.
    1. Once mixed, pour out your chocolate covered cereal on to the parchment paper and spread it out so most of it is in a single layer. (It's ok if some of it's still touching - you'll be breaking it up in to small pieces anyway once it's hardened.)
    sprinkles pouring in to cereal
    Add half of sprinkles
    spread mixture on baking sheet
    Pour mixture on baking sheet
    1. Quickly, sprinkle the reamaining sprinkles on the top of the cereal before the chocolate hardens.
    2. Allow cereal to "dry" (about 10 minutes).
    Pour more sprinkles on cereal
    Pour remaining sprinkles
    allow cereal to dry
    Allow to dry
    1. Once dry, pour candy on top of cereal mixture and mix up/break up the cereal in to small bite-size pieces. (Remember, this is a snack mix so it's ok if some of cereal is stuck together but large pieces are harder to eat when snacking.)
    Pour candy in to mix
    Add candy
    Bread up in to little pieces
    Break in to pieces
    1. Once broken in to bite-size pieces and combined, as evenly as possible with the candy, place it in a bowl, ready for serving!
    easter chex mix in white bowl
    Easter Chex Mix

    Aren’t those bunny cookies next to the mix so cute? If you want to make bunny cookies, you’ll also love these bunny cookies!

    How to serve bunny bait recipe

    What’s great about this dessert is that it can be made ahead of time and placed out in small bowls, around the room, or on a buffet, so guests can snack as they please!

    Or, if you want to put small amounts in treat bags, for little Easter treats, it’s a great way to create a little gift for your friends and family, or even classmates! It’s also a great treat to add to Easter baskets.

    You may also want to include these chocolate-covered Easter Oreos too!

    Bunny bait in white bowl
    Bunny Bait

    Substitutions

    If you don’t have some of the items on hand, it’s absolutely ok to substitute your favorite cereal, candy and more! Here are some ideas:

    • Golden Grahams cereal
    • All Chex cereal instead of using a variety
    • Easter Hershey kisses
    • Reese’s cups
    • Mini candy bars
    • Starburst Jelly Beans
    • Mini marshmallows
    • Candy melts instead of baking chips
    • Pretzel sticks, pretzel twists, mini pretzels
    • Candy Easter eggs
    • Bunny graham crackers
    • Popcorn
    fingers holding bite of bunny bait
    Snackable treat

    Variations

    This recipe has a white chocolate flavor but if you prefer the taste of muddy buddies, (or puppy chow) you may want to add peanut butter to your melted chocolate before pouring over the dry cereal!

    How to store Easter bunny bait snack mix

    It’s best to store any leftover sweet snack mix in an airtight container, and best to enjoy for 5-7 days.

    More Easter Ideas

    If you’re looking for easy recipes and ideas for the Easter season, you’ll LOVE these Easter desserts and more:

    • A slice of strawberry heaven cake dessert on a plate.
      Strawberry Heaven
    • Strawberry Pound Cake on cake stand.
      Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze Icing
    • A slice of strawberry cheesecake poke cake on a round plate.
      Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
    • A slice of burnt sugar cake on a round, vintage plate.
      Burnt Sugar Cake

    Recipe

    easter snack mix - bunny bait in white bowl
    Print Pin
    5 from 4 votes

    Easter Snack Mix – Bunny Bait

    Easter Snack Mix: This "Bunny Bait" is not only easy but it's a fantastic Easter dessert idea, and perfect to snack on at an Easter celebration!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 2 minutes minutes
    Cooling Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 17 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 servings
    Calories 393kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups Rice Chex
    • 1 cup Cheerios
    • 1 cup Cinnamon Toast Crunch
    • 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
    • 1 cup Peanut M&M's
    • ¼ cup Easter sprinkles
    • ½ cup Funfetti jelly beans
    • 1 cup Cadbury Mini Eggs

    Instructions

    • First, thinking ahead, grab a large baking sheet and cover it completely with parchment paper.
    • Next, melt the chocolate baking chips in a large bowl (large enough that the cereal will fit in it after the chocolate is melted) following the package directions for melting. (Most will be to melt on half-power for 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Do NOT overcook.)
    • Once the chocolate is completely melted, pour your dry cereal in to the bowl of white chocolate and carefully stir to mix, trying to make sure all of the cereal becomes covered.
    • Next, pour in half of the sprinkles, and stir.
    • Once mixed, pour out your chocolate covered cereal on to the parchment paper and spread it out so most of it is in a single layer. (It's ok if some of it's still touching - you'll be breaking it up in to small pieces anyway once it's hardened.)
    • Sprinkle the reamaining sprinkles on the top of the cereal before the chocolate hardens.
    • Allow cereal/icing to "dry" for about 10 minutes.
    • Pour on remaining candies and break up in to small, bite-size pieces. Mix up so it's as evenly combined as possible. Serve!

    Notes

    How to store Easter snack mix:
    It’s best to store any leftover sweet snack mix in an airtight container, and best to enjoy for 5-7 days.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 393kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 115mg | Potassium: 105mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 46g | Vitamin A: 320IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 130mg | Iron: 3mg

    Easter Charcuterie Board

    April 6, 2022

    Easter charcuterie board

    Easter Charcuterie Board: There are a lot of ideas on what and how you can make a dessert and candy board for the Easter holiday but here is a simple and easy way to create your own!

    Quick Overview: Feel free to change up candies, cookies, snacks, and more for your own board. TIP: Using store-bought decorated cookies (like these Chocolate Covered Easter Oreos or making these Easter Bunny Cookies) is a quick way to add some cuteness and they’re a huge hit!

    Easter Charcuterie Board on white counter

    Why You’ll Love Making this Easter Dessert Board

    If you’re hosting for Easter or looking for a fun dessert recipe to take along to family gatherings, this is such a fun way to serve dessert! Especially if you’re not someone who loves to bake or cook because putting together a charcuterie board like this, requires very little prep and skill and it’s fantastic when entertaining. Themed charcuterie boards are perfect for just about any holiday and a great way to feed your guests!

    Now although this Easter charcuterie board appetizer is more of a dessert and/or candy type of board, you can absolutely do more of a savory board if you prefer.

    However, with it being Easter, I thought it would be so much fun to utilize all of the fun Easter treats at the store and make one of my favorite dessert charcuterie boards. Speaking of “boards” if you have a chalkboard you’d like to decorate for the holiday, make sure you see this fun Easter chalkboard idea!

    What you’ll need to make this board:

    I’ll list everything below that I used for this delicious grazing board. However, feel free to leave out some of the following ingredients, or even add your own favorite candies and goodies, even getting ideas from this list of charcuterie board types. I’ll also include a list of more ideas below, that you can put on your own board!

    • Peanut M&M’s
    • Funfetti Jelly Beans
    • Easter Hershey Kisses
    • Neopolitan Organic Bunny Grahams
    • Golden Oreos
    • Shortbread Cookies (Store-bought in a tin)
    • Cadbury Mini Eggs (chocolate eggs, like we used in these Easter mini egg cookies!)
    • Store-Bought Decorated Sugar Cookies
    • Robin Egg Candy (candy eggs)
    • Reese’s Cups
    • Peeps
    • Rabbit Marshmallow Pop
    labeled Easter treats on board
    What’s included

    How to Build the Easter Board

    There really is no wrong or right way to make your own dessert board. However, I want to share some tips with you that may make the process easier!

    1. Board, Tray, Platter – I used a white, marble lazy susan for this board, and I love it because it turns, allowing guests to easily spin the board to what treat they have their eyes on. Buy a similar lazy susan here. You won’t need a large platter unless you’re serving a larger group, or more than 15-20 people.
    empty white marble lazy susan
    White marble lazy susan
    1. Next, place a few small bowls on the lazy susan. (I used two oval bowls and two small round bowls – with the intention of the oval bowls looking like rabbit ears. Not sure it did that… but it was fun trying. Haha!)
    empty small bowls on white board
    start with bowls
    1. Then, fill your bowls with candy. (You can do a different type of candy in each bowl, or even add more bowls to your board if you prefer. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way!)
    Small bowls filled with Easter candy
    Fill bowls with candy
    1. After filling the bowls, I then place a few rows of different cookies. Staggering them is always a nice look, and it gives the cookies some “height” to save room of other items and to give the board some dimension.
    Cookies added to lazy susan
    Add cookies
    1. Once you’ve added the cookies, it’s time to fill up the empty space with candy and other treats! Pile the candy up, and feel free to place the same candy in multiple areas, or even mix the candies together.
    Left side of charcuterie board of treats
    Candy filled board
    Right side of Easter candy board
    Variety of sweet treats

    Now, you have a beautiful Easter charcuterie board to serve to your guests, or for even the kiddos for a fun afternoon snack!

    How to serve your snack board

    Once your entire board is full, and you no longer see any “white space”, it’s ready to serve! Place it in the center of the room, on the buffet, or in a place where guests can easily grab a treat and go! Or maybe the Easter Bunny would like a nice treat when he visits that night!

    Full platter of Easter desserts
    Ready to serve!

    Expert Tips and FAQ’s

    • Don’t worry if you don’t use all of the candy or treats that come in a package. You’ll find that some of the candies may get eaten more than the others. If hosting, just keep an eye on the board and when you see white space start to appear, simply fill it back up with the extras that you’ve set aside.
    • If you have leftover Easter candies after Easter weekend, don’t throw them away! Make these mini egg bars! Or, if you have leftover cookies or Oreos, break them up and make these rice krispie treats with cookies!
    • The key to a beautiful Easter, and it looking cohesive is having a lot of the same color scheme. For instance, using a lot of pastel colors is ideal to really tie in the spring colors.

    More Easter charcuterie board food items

    If you can’t find some of the items that I’ve used on my board, or if you prefer to use different items, here are some of our favorite things to use on charcuterie boards:

    • fresh fruit
    • chocolate bunnies
    • meats (Such as salami roses – although meat and candy can be hard to serve with one another, although you could do one side of savory appetizers and one side of sweets.)
    • fresh vegetables
    • nuts (pine nuts, pecans, cashews, almonds) – be cautious of food allergies
    • cheese cubes

    Related Easter ideas

    If you’re getting ready for your next Easter party, you’ll also love these Easter recipes: Easter egg nest cookies, Easter bark, and our favorite… Easter Egg Cookie Truffles! Or, if you’re looking to cut down on the amount of candy your Easter has, these ideas for non-candy treats for Easter baskets will come in handy!

    • bread pudding in baking dish
      Bread Pudding Recipe: Easy Old Fashioned Recipe (With Video!)
    • A slice of old-fashioned carrot cake on round, vintage plate.
      Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake Recipe
    • Crack green beans on wooden spoon.
      Crack Green Beans
    • Pistachio Salad in white bowl on pink background
      Pistachio Salad

    Recipe

    Easter charcuterie board
    Print Pin
    5 from 4 votes

    Easter Charcuterie Board

    Easter Charcuterie Board: There are a lot of ideas on what and how you can make a dessert and candy board for Easter but here is a simple and easy way to create your own!
    Course Appetizer, Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 20 minutes minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes minutes
    Servings 15 people
    Calories 674kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups Peanut M&M's
    • 1 cups Funfetti jelly beans
    • 1 cup Hershey Kisses
    • ½ cup Neopolitan Organic Bunny Grahams
    • 4 Golden Oreos
    • ½ cup Cadbury Mini Eggs
    • 15 Shortbread cookies
    • 2 Decorated sugar cookies
    • 1 cup Robin Egg candies
    • 2 cups Reese's Cups miniatures
    • 4 Peeps
    • 1 Rabit marshmallow pop

    Instructions

    • Place 4 small bowls, in different areas on platter, board or serving tray. (See post for more tips!)
    • Next, pour candies in to bowls until full. (Any candy will do – but I poured jelly beans and peanut M&M's in to the bowls.)
    • Place and stagger rows of cookies around platter.
    • Finally, fill any open spaces on the platter with varieties of candies and treats!

    Notes

    Don’t worry if you don’t use all of the candy or treats that come in a package. You’ll find that some of the candies may get eaten more than the others. If hosting, just keep an eye on the board and when you see white space start to appear, simply fill it back up with the extras that you’ve set aside.
    If you have leftover Easter candies, don’t throw them away! Make these mini egg bars! Or, if you have leftover cookies or Oreos, break them up and make these rice krispie treats with cookies!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 674kcal | Carbohydrates: 93g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 264mg | Potassium: 153mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 75g | Vitamin A: 144IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 129mg | Iron: 2mg

    The BEST Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

    April 5, 2022

    Close up image of one oatmeal cookie on a plate of cookies.

    The BEST Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: These chewy oatmeal cookies combine simple ingredients like quick oats, sugar, butter, flour, and raisins to create the BEST oatmeal raisin cookie ever!

    Quick Overview: Mix dry ingredients, cream butter, and sugars and combine everything together. Chill the dough, roll into dough balls, and bake at 350°!

    Oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    I think everyone needs a few recipes for classic cookies in their back pocket, and oatmeal raisin cookies are one of them!

    This easy oatmeal raisin cookies recipe requires simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry, it comes together in just over 30 minutes, and it gives you a chewy, soft oatmeal raisin cookie every time. It’s really the BEST oatmeal raisin cookie recipe ever!

    These would make a perfect gift, too! Next time, make a double batch (or also make these banana chocolate cookies to give with them) and give some to your friends, family or neighbors (because who doesn’t love homemade cookies).

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    The ingredients for this chewy oatmeal cookies recipe are ones you probably have in your house already, but if you don’t you can for sure find them at your local grocery store!

    Every good oatmeal raisin cookie needs:

    • ¾ cup quick oats (aka instant oats)
    • 8 tablespoons butter (unsalted, room temperature)
    • ½ cup white sugar
    • ¼ cup light muscovado sugar (can use dark or brown sugar)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 large egg (room temperature)
    • ¾ cup all purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ⅔ cup raisins (can add more if you like)
    Someone's hand holding one oatmeal raisin cookie with many cookies in the background.

    Instructions

    1. Heat oven to 350 degrees f. 
    2. Line 2 large cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats and set aside.
    3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside. 
    Dry ingredients, well combined, sitting in a glass bowl.
    Whisk dry ingredients together.
    1. With a hand mixer in a large bowl or in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter with both sugars until creamy, about 2 minutes. 

    (Note: I don't recommend substituting brown sugar for white sugar entirely. It’s been tested and a mix of both gives the best results!) 

    1. Add egg, vanilla and beat on low. 
    Butter and sugar creamed together and sitting in a glass bowl.
    Cream together butter and sugars.
    1. Add the flour mixture in batches and mix on low until thoroughly combined. 
    Dry ingredients dumped into a bowl of creamed butter and sugar.
    Add flour in batches.
    1. Stir in the raisins with a wooden spoon. 
    2. For best results, put the dough in the freezer for 10-15 minutes until it resembles soft playdough. If you are short on time, you can still bake the cookies right away without chilling. (If you don’t chill them, the cookies will spread out more and may be a bit more crispy, but the flavor shouldn’t change.)
    Raisins dumped on top of cookie dough batter in a bowl.
    Add raisins.
    Oatmeal Raisin Cookie batter in a bowl.
    Stir to combine.
    1. Roll the dough into 12-13 balls (about 2 tablespoons of dough per ball), lay on the prepared baking sheets (don't flatten them). Make sure there is about 2-3 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading. 
    Balls of oatmeal raisin cookie dough on a parchment lined baking sheet.
    Be sure to leave 2-3″ between dough balls!
    1. Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes. (If you need to make two batches, be sure to pop the dough back in the freezer while the first batch is baking)
    2. Let the cookies sit on the baking tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool to the touch. Enjoy the best oatmeal cookies ever!
    Oatmeal Raisin Cookies stacked on a plate.

    Substitutions

    • Light Muscovado Sugar – you can use dark muscovado sugar in place of light which will give the cookie more of a toffee like flavor due to its high molasses content. You could also use regular brown sugar in place of light muscovado, but know that muscovado melts beautifully and has very small sugar crystals that help the texture of the cookie.
    • Egg – if you can’t have eggs, you can use a flax egg or chia egg in this recipe. It changes the taste a bit but it shouldn’t affect the texture of the cookie.

    Variations

    We think this cookie recipe is a classic and we love it just as it is, but if you want to change it up here are a few suggestions…

    • Chocolate Chips – the most obvious suggestion is to add chocolate chips. You can add them in addition to the raisins (maybe reducing the raisins to ½ cup and adding ½ cup chocolate chips) or you can replace the raisins entirely!
    • Other Chips – you could also replace the raising (half of the raisins or all of them) with other types of chips like white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, peanut butter chips…the options are endless!
    • Coconut – if you like oatmeal cookies with a bit of coconut in them, you could try mixing in ¼ cup of unsweetened, shredded oatmeal. I haven’t tried this, but I bet it would be delicious (oatmeal and coconut are the perfect combination, in my opinion).
    Oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate.

    Storage

    Store these oatmeal raisin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You could also freeze these in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to a month.

    Freezing Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Dough Balls

    Yes, you read that right! You can freeze the uncooked dough. 

    I like to form them into a ball, freeze them for 20 minutes on a plate lined with parchment paper then put them into a plastic freezer bag or freezer-safe container. Doing it this way they all freeze individually, and it is easier for me to pick only a few out when I am ready to cook them.

    You can store these dough balls in the freezer for up to 6 weeks (which is perfect if you want to be able to whip up fresh cookies for company in mere minutes- just pop these in the oven and voila!).

    Baking Frozen Cookie Dough

    You have two options for baking frozen dough balls…

    1. You put them on the prepared baking sheet and let them thaw, then you cook them as the recipe states, or

    2. You lower the oven temperature by 15°, put the frozen dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake it for 3-5 minutes longer than the recipe says (watching closely at the end to see when they are done).

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Should you soak raisins before baking cookies?

    This isn’t necessary, but you sure can! If you want to make your cookies extra soft and your raisins extra plump, soak your raisins in some warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the recipe.

    Be warned: we haven’t tried this recipe with soaked raisins and we aren’t sure how it will affect the bake time.

    How do you soften oatmeal raisin cookies?

    Getting a nice, soft oatmeal raisin cookie has to do with the way you bake it! There are a few things to note:
    1. If you don’t freeze your dough it will spread out faster, resulting in a flatter cookie with a crisp edge.
    2. If you make your dough balls too small (and don’t reduce the baking time accordingly), the cookies will spread out more and become crispier.
    3. DON’T OVERBAKE! The secret to a soft, chewy oatmeal raisin cookie is to just bake the cookies until they edges are golden brown and the middle looks set (not jiggly). Remember, you can always pop it back in the oven for a bit longer but you can’t un-bake a cookie.

    Why did my oatmeal cookies get hard?

    This question is answered in detail just above, but the most likely reason for this is over-baking. Your cookies will also get hard if you don’t store them in an airtight container!

    What makes cookies soft?

    A few things contribute to this - making sure you don’t over-bake them, chilling the dough before baking, and using a white sugar/brown sugar mixture in the recipe!

    If you want a softer cookie, be sure to use the white sugar and muscovado sugar listed in this recipe and watch the bake time carefully!

    More great recipes like this one

    If you’re looking for more easy cookie recipes your kids will love, you’ll really love these no bake chocolate oatmeal cookies, these ranger cookies, and these no bake energy bites with oats. Or, check out these new cookie recipes, here:

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    Recipe

    Close up image of one oatmeal cookie on a plate of cookies.
    Print Pin
    5 from 10 votes

    The BEST Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

    The BEST Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: These chewy oatmeal cookies combine simple ingredients like quick oats, sugar, butter, flour and raisins to create the BEST oatmeal raisin cookie ever!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 8 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 12 minutes minutes
    Chill Time 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 35 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 cookies
    Calories 194kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • ¾ cup quick oats
    • 8 tablespoons butter unsalted, room temperature
    • ½ cup white sugar
    • ¼ cup light muscovado sugar can use dark or brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 large egg room temperature
    • ¾ cup all purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ⅔ cup raisins can add more if you like

    Instructions

    • Heat oven to 350 degrees f.
    • Line 2 large cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats and set aside.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside. 
    • With a hand mixer in a large bowl or in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter with both sugars until creamy, about 2 minutes.
      (Note: I don't recommend substituting brown sugar for white sugar entirely. It's been tested and a mix of both gives the best results!) 
    • Add egg, vanilla and beat on low. 
    • Add the flour mixture in batches and mix on low until thoroughly combined.
    • Stir in the raisins with a wooden spoon.
    • For best results, put the dough in the freezer for 10-15 minutes until it resembles soft playdough. If you are short on time, you can still bake the cookies right away without chilling.
      (If you don't chill them, the cookies will spread out more and may be a bit more crispy, but the flavor shouldn't change.)
    • Roll the dough into 12-13 balls (about 2 tablespoons of dough per ball), lay on the prepared baking sheets (don't flatten them).
      Make sure there is about 2-3 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.
    • Bake for 10-12 minutes. (If you need to make two batches, be sure to pop the dough back in the freezer while the first batch is baking)
    • Let the cookies sit on the baking tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool to the touch. Enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 194kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 164mg | Potassium: 124mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 256IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg

    Ranger Cookies

    March 25, 2022

    Ranger cookies piled up on a cutting board.

    Ranger Cookies: These quick and easy ranger cookies (also called cowboy cookies) are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Corn flakes and crispy rice cereal give these chewy cookies a crunchy texture that will make them a family favorite in no time!

    If you're looking for make-ahead desserts for sharing, take a look at my potluck dessert ideas.

    Ranger cookies piled in a tower with a jug labeled "milk" sitting behind them.
    Ranger cookies with corn flakes.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    I think the original ranger cookies (you know, the coconut ranger cookies with oatmeal) are delicious, but you know what’s better? Ranger cookies with corn flakes. Ranger cookies with Rice Krispies.

    And THE BEST ranger cookies have all of those things in them! This ranger cookie recipe takes a classic for a little spin and creates something even better.

    In this ranger cookies recipe you’ll find all of the classic ranger cookie ingredients (butter, sugar, coconut flakes, oatmeal) as well as some fun new additions to add crunch and flavor (corn flakes, Rice Krispies, walnuts if you like).

    This is quickly becoming one of my new favorite cookie recipes (along with these easy homemade oatmeal raisin cookies) - you have to try it!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    What are Ranger Cookies?

    A ranger cookie is an oatmeal cookie that sometimes contains coconut or other yummy additions. But why is it called a ranger cookie?

    Some say the cookie originated in Texas (so I guess that would make it a Texas ranger cookie), others say it was named “cowboy cookie” because it’s tough enough to withstand a day in a saddle bag.

    But I think you can call it whatever you like, as long as you share some with me! These crispy-on-the-outside and chewy-on-the-inside cookies are so good, I never can seem to eat just one.

    Ingredients

    You can make these cookies with basic ingredients you probably already have your cupboard right now. And if you don’t, you can find them all super easily at the local grocery store!

    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
    • 1 cup white sugar
    • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2 cups all purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 2 cups quick oats
    • 1 cup corn flakes
    • 1 cup rice cereal (we used Rice Krispies)
    • 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
    • 1 cup chopped walnuts, optional
    Ingredients for ranger cookies laid out on a marble countertop.
    Ingredients

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on medium speed, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. 

    [You can also do this in a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer, or even by hand if you like.]

    Butter, white sugar and brown sugar in a mixing bowl.
    1. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mix on medium speed until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
    Add eggs & vanilla.
    Mixture after eggs and vanilla were added and combined.
    Mix until combined
    1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt and then add this flour mixture to the sugar and butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. 
    Dry ingredients added to the mixing bowl.
    Add the flour mixture.
    Dough once dry ingredients have been combined with wet ingredients.
    Mix just till combined.
    1. Add the oatmeal to the mixing bowl and mix on low speed until combined.
    Oatmeal dumped on cookie dough inside mixing bowl.
    Add oats.
    1. Fold in the cornflakes, rice cereal, shredded coconut and chopped nuts by hand with a sturdy spatula. 
    Coconut flakes, rice cereal, corn flakes, and walnuts dumped onto cookie dough in mixing bowl.
    Add coconut, corn flakes, rice cereal, walnuts.
    Cookie dough once all ingredients are added and mixed together.
    Fold in by hand with spatula.
    1. Using a 1 ounce cookie scoop (or a tablespoon if you don’t have a cookie scoop), create 1 ounce cookie dough balls. Place your dough balls on the parchment lined baking sheet.
    Balls of cookie dough on parchment lined baking sheet.
    Roll 1 oz. dough into a ball.
    1. Bake at 350 degrees f for  9-12 minutes. The cookies will be golden brown around the edges and set in the center. 
    Baked ranger cookies on parchment lined baking sheet.
    Bake 9-12 mins at 350°.
    1. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to let cool completely.
    2. Serve these ranger cookies alongside a glass or milk or a cup of coffee and enjoy!
    Baked ranger cookies cooling on wire rack.
    Cool on a wire rack.

    Substitutions

    This recipe is great as it is, but if you need to make changes we have a few suggestions…

    • Gluten Free – use gluten free flour in place of the all purpose flour (you can usually find this in the natural food aisle of your local grocery store). The rest of the ingredients are already gluten free!
    • No Eggs – you can replace the eggs in this recipe with flax eggs!
    • Dairy Free – if you use a dairy free butter (like Earth Balance) you can easily make these cookies suit a dairy free diet!
    Ranger cookies, layered in front of one another on white surface
    The BEST Ranger Cookies

    Variations

    The original recipe for these cookies already has a ton of fun extras in it, but if you’re the wild kind (like yours truly) and you still want more, try these…

    • Chocolate Chip Cookies – add some chocolate chips (white chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips – it’s up to you) to make these chocolate chip ranger cookies!
    • Other “Chips” – You could also add in other fun “chips” that aren’t chocolate, like peanut butter chips or butterscotch chips.
    • Raisins – if you’re a fan of oatmeal cookies with raisins, like me, try mixing in a handful of raisins! You could mix in any kind of dried fruit you like, as long as it’s chopped up in small enough pieces (cranberries, blueberries, mangos…).

    Cookies are so fun because you can customize a basic recipe to no end and have a different cookie each time you bake them!

    Equipment

    We used a 1 ounce cookie scoop for this recipe, but if you don’t have one you can scoop your dough out with a regular old tablespoon from your cutlery drawer and then roll it into a ball. It works just as well.

    Stacked ranger cookies.

    What is the “scoop and level” method?

    All this fancy term means is that instead of taking your measuring cup and scooping a full cup of flour, you use a spoon or other utensil to slowly fill up the measuring cup and then scrape it flat to ensure you are getting just the right amount.

    If you need to see a more detailed example of what we mean, check out this blog post.

    Storage

    Store your leftover ranger cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to a month.

    Expert Tips and FAQs

    Why are they called ranger cookies?

    A ranger cookie is an oatmeal cookie that sometimes contains coconut or other yummy additions. But why is it called a ranger cookie?

    Some say the cookie originated in Texas (so I guess that would make it a Texas rangers cookie), others say it was named “cowboy cookie” because it’s tough enough to withstand a day in a saddle bag.

    But I think you can call it whatever you like, as long as you share some with me! These crispy-on-the-outside and chewy-on-the-inside cookies are so good, I never can seem to eat just one.

    What ingredient makes cookies harder? And what is the secret to a chewy cookie?

    The answer to both of these questions, in my opinion, is baking time!

    If you bake a cookie for slightly longer it will become harder, and the secret to a chewy cookie is to make sure you DO NOT overtake them. Keep a close eye on them when they reach the end of their baking time - as long as the cookie is a bit golden brown around the edges, it’s safe to pull them out.

    If you are worried they aren’t quite done yet, let them sit on the pan for 5 mins or so (the heat from the baking sheet will actually continue cooking them a bit even out of the oven). Remember, you can always pop them back in the oven to bake a bit longer but you can’t unbake them!

    What do I add to cookies to make them fluffy?

    The secret to a fluffy cookie is the creaming of the butter and sugar! The process of creaming together butter and sugar incorporates air into your cookie batter.

    While it’s tempting to simply combine then together quickly and move on, letting your butter and sugar beat for a good 3-5 minutes will ensure there is plenty of air mixed in and you get a nice, fluffy cookie.

    Related Recipes

    If you are looking for more great recipes you can whip up on a dime next time company shows up unexpectedly, check out our easy peanut butter cookies and our chewy monster cookies! Or, if you love Crumbl Cookies, make sure you check out these key lime pie copycat cookies!

    Recipe

    Ranger cookies piled up on a cutting board.
    Print Pin
    5 from 8 votes

    Ranger Cookies

    Ranger Cookies: These quick and easy ranger cookies (also called cowboy cookies) are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Corn flakes and crispy rice cereal give these chewy cookies a crunchy texture that will make them a family favorite in no time!
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Prep Time 30 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 12 minutes minutes
    Total Time 42 minutes minutes
    Servings 60 cookies
    Calories 107kcal
    Author Jessica Burgess

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature
    • 1 cup white sugar
    • 1 cup light brown sugar packed
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2 cups all purpose flour scoop and level method
    • 2 teaspoons baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 2 cups quick oats
    • 1 cup corn flakes
    • 1 cup rice cereal we used Rice Krispies
    • 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
    • 1 cup chopped walnuts optional

    Instructions

    • In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on medium speed, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
      [You can also do this in a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer, or even by hand if you like.]
    • Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mix on medium speed until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
    • In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt and then add this flour mixture to the sugar and butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. 
    • Add the oatmeal to the mixing bowl and mix on low speed until combined.
    • Fold in the cornflakes, rice cereal, shredded coconut and chopped nuts by hand with a sturdy spatula. 
    • Using a 1 ounce cookie scoop (or a tablespoon if you don't have a cookie scoop), create 1 ounce cookie dough balls. Place your dough balls on the parchment lined baking sheet. 
    • Bake at 350 degrees f for  9-12 minutes. The cookies will be golden brown around the edges and set in the center. 
    • Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to let cool completely.
    • Serve these ranger cookies alongside a glass or milk or a cup of coffee and enjoy!

    Notes

    STORAGE: Store your leftover ranger cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to a month. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2cookies | Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 87mg | Potassium: 44mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 121IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg
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    I’m here to help you make easy comfort food and nostalgic recipes, using simple ingredients, that everyone will love.

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