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Bread Pudding Recipe: Easy Old Fashioned Recipe (With Video!)

Bread Pudding Recipe: Easy Old Fashioned Recipe (With Video!)

Bread Pudding Recipe: An easy old fashioned recipe is the BEST, and this recipe resembles the old-fashioned dessert recipe that we all love! It’s basic, and uses everyday ingredients and an optional brown-buttered vanilla sauce, or this vanilla sauce for bread pudding, to drizzle on top!

If you're looking for more desserts that work well for sharing, you'll find my favorite potluck desserts here.

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Looking for quick and easy dessert recipes to add to your Pinterest boards? Then you’ll also LOVE this peach cobbler made with Bisquick, the BEST Banana Bread, and this easy pound cake recipe!

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I’m so glad that you’re here for this bread pudding. It may just change your decadent dessert life.

But if this is your first time here, you’re going to find tons of quick and easy recipes around here!

What is Bread Pudding?

Well it’s not the “pudding” you’re probably thinking of. Rather it’s a recipe that uses old, stale bread, combined with a creamy custard that consists of things like sugar, butter, milk, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and then bake it all. The outside edges may have a slight crisp, while the middle is a soft, custard-like texture.

Bread pudding serving in small white bowl

Where did bread pudding come from?

New Orleans is famous for its bread pudding! However, bread pudding originated in England (UK) and was actually created as “poor man’s pudding” since it used very little ingredients. Since then, other ingredients were added to enhance the flavor.

I found out about it because my grandma used to make this old-fashioned dessert and I fell in love with it from the first moment I had it!

When I wanted to make this for the first time, I found a few good recipes for bread pudding in my old cookbooks, but they all had something that didn’t tickle my fancy. (Such as raisins – although you can add these if you like.)

So… I gathered all of the recipes up and came up with my own plan and I have to admit, using simple ingredients helped make this the BEST bread pudding!

Ingredients for Bread Pudding

Front view of bread pudding ingredients, sitting on kitchen counter.

This bread pudding is made with easy-to-find ingredients. Here are a few notes on some of the key ingredients. See the recipe card below for the measurements.

  • Bread: Stale bread is best so it really soaks up the custard mixture, instead of it settling in the bottom and cooking the eggs separately.
  • Butter: I’ve used salted and unsalted for this recipe and it turns out great each time.
  • Milk: Feel free to try half & half or heavy cream if that’s what you have!
  • Sugar: I use white granulated sugar for this but brown sugar for the optional sauce.
  • Vanilla extract: If you can use pure vanilla, that’s the best. But I’ve used imitation vanilla in a pinch.

What Kind of Bread is Best for Bread Pudding?

French bread is a great bread for this recipe although I’ve used leftover sandwich bread, hot dog buns, hamburger buns, and more, and it always turns out great! (Or if you have stale donuts, you may want to make this donut bread pudding recipe!) Check out all the different types of bread readers have used over the years, in the comments!

How to Make Stale Bread

If you’re craving bread pudding, but don’t have the leftover bread or the stale bread to use for it, no worries!

Grab some fresh bread and either pop it in the toaster for a bit, or cut in to bread cubes (about 1-inch pieces) and bake it in the oven on 350° for about 5-10 minutes. (Don’t burn it or turn it brown. You’re just removing as much moisture from it as you can.)

Dish of Bread Pudding

I love this recipe, and I really do think it’s the best because it only includes items I usually have on hand, resembles the old-fashioned recipe that we’ve all known to love, and I had it all put together and in the oven in a matter of minutes.

How to Make Bread Pudding from Scratch

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Then you’ll start by buttering your 8×8 baking dish (or 9×13 casserole dish if doubling the recipe) and breaking up the bread into about 1-inch cubes.
Spreading butter stick on baking dish
  1. Toss the bread into the buttered dish.
Uncooked bread cubes in baking dish
  1. Melt your remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and drizzle melted butter over bread pieces and set aside.
eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar, butter in large mixing bowl ready to be mixed
  1. Next, in a large mixing bowl, mix together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Egg custard mixture in bowl, ready to pour over bread pieces
  1. Next, simply pour the egg mixture over the bread pieces and make sure each piece has been covered or submerged to let that bread soak up that amazing custard mixture!
Close-up image of egg custard batter pouring out of mixing bowl on to top of bread

Oh my… doesn’t that photo of the egg mixture just make you drool!? It does me, every stinking time I look at it.

Bread cubes soaking pudding mixture in baking dish

How Long to Bake Bread Pudding

  1. Toss that baby in the oven and let it bake the bread mixture uncovered for 40-45 minutes at 350º.
Bread Pudding in dish without sauce

FAQs and Expert Tips:

How do you know when bread pudding is done?

Just like almost any dessert, or bread that you’re baking, insert a clean knife into the center and see if it comes out clean!

What is day-old bread?

Well, it’s stale bread. Not super hard, and crispy… but bread that just wouldn’t be your favorite to use to make your favorite sandwich.
The reason you want day-old or stale bread is because you’ll want the bread to soak up the batter/custard of the bread pudding mixture.

Can you freeze bread pudding?

Yep! It’s actually a great idea to make some of this ahead of time in case you need a last-minute dessert idea or to take a care package to a friend in need!
Just bake it as normal, and once cooled, place in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to thaw it, place it in the refrigerator to thaw it out.

Do you eat bread pudding warm or cold?

You can enjoy bread pudding cold or warm, but if you prefer it warm after freezing/thawing, gently warm it to reheat.

Can I prepare bread pudding the night before?

Absolutely! I love make-ahead meals about as much as anyone, especially when entertaining! So if you want to make this ahead of time, feel free to!
You can either mix it all together and refrigerate it overnight before baking, or bake it, let it cool, and then refrigerate.

How to store leftovers

For best results, if you have left-over bread pudding, cool it until becomes room temperature and store in an airtight container (or cover the dish with plastic wrap) for up to 5 days, in the refrigerator.

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

That golden-brown bread pudding will remind you of grandma’s old-fashioned recipe as soon as you pull it out of the oven.

Serve it warm alone, with ice cream, or top it with the super-easy bread pudding sauce that I tell you about below…

Bread pudding on a spoon over dish

What to Serve with Bread Pudding?

If you’re looking for a little something extra to serve with your new, easy bread pudding recipe, you might consider:

Bread pudding with raisins in baking dish, sitting on table, on top of lace cloth.
  • raisins – as shown above
  • chocolate sauce
  • caramel ice cream topping
  • ice cream
  • whipped cream
  • candied nuts
  • dried fruit
  • powdered sugar
  • or this crazy-easy and delicious bread pudding sauce I whipped up for you…

Amazing Bread Pudding Vanilla Sauce

For years I shared this recipe without a sauce or a drizzle. But there have been tons of you who have made this recipe and left so many amazing reviews and comments below saying you’ve made a bourbon bread pudding, caramel sauce, or vanilla sauce, and I must say… you’ve inspired me.

So when I remade this recipe to take new photos for the blog, I decided to whip up a quick buttery vanilla sauce to see how it would taste, and have also provided a creamy vanilla sauce recipe that you can top it with.

The bread pudding is great as a stand-alone, but I’m a fan of this addition now, in a BIG way!

How to Make Browned Butter Sauce:

You’ll need the following, everyday ingredients to make this drizzle, that is more nutty, and a little less sweet than the custardy vanilla sauce option below:

  • butter (I used salted but unsalted butter works just fine!)
  • brown sugar
  • milk or heavy cream (or even water)
  • vanilla

It’s super easy. Grab a small saucepan, and melt (on high) 3 Tablespoons of salted butter.

Vanilla Sauce in sauce pan

Once melted, turned it down to medium heat and wait a bit to let the butter brown. (Browned butter is my JAM!)

Then, reduce heat to a simmer, and add in brown sugar, milk or cream, and then whisk for 1-2 minutes.

Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Pour on top of the cooked bread pudding.

Bread Pudding with vanilla sauce in dish

How to Make Vanilla Sauce for Bread Pudding

Get the creamy vanilla sauce recipe if you prefer a sauce that is more “custard” like, rich, and also called “crème anglaise,” instead of the browned butter sauce that I’ve made above.

Bourbon Bread Pudding

If you love the taste of bourbon in your bread pudding, you can easily add bourbon to the vanilla sauce recipe above by adding in a tablespoon of bourbon (less or more, depending on your taste) when you add in the sugar and vanilla.

We have a major sweet tooth and are HUGE fans of bread pudding recipes so make sure you check out our chocolate bread pudding recipe, donut bread pudding, sweet potato casserole bread pudding, and banana bread pudding to see which one is your favorite! Or, you may even love trying this croissant bread pudding!

So tell me… did you make this bread pudding? Did you like it? Let me know below in the comments with the others, and give this a rating to let others know how much you love it!

Recipe

bread pudding in baking dish
Print Pin
4.92 from 1187 votes

The BEST Bread Pudding Recipe

This old-fashioned bread pudding recipe is so easy, traditional, and is the custard dessert recipe we all love! Plus, an optional vanilla sauce to drizzle on top!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 316kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • 1 8 x 8 Baking Dish
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Saucepan Only if making sauce
  • 1 Whisk Only if making sauce

Ingredients

  • 6 slices stale bread (Or about 4-5 cups of broken bread pieces or cubes. Some ideas to use are: french bread, buns, rolls, donuts, challah, toast or another type of bread.)
  • 3 tablespoons of butter 1 Tablespoon + 2 Tablespoons
  • 4 beaten eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • raisins optional

Optional Creamy Vanilla Sauce

Optional Brown Sugar Butter Drizzle

  • 3 tablespoons butter salted (but unsalted is ok too!)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream – optional *see notes

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and use 1 Tablespoon of butter to coat the inside of your 8 inch square baking dish.
  • Break your bread (I made larger pieces, rather than crumbling it up) in to the buttered baking dish.
  • Melt your remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and drizzle over bread pieces.
  • In a bowl, mix remaining ingredients (don't forget to beat your eggs first) until mixed well.
    4 beaten eggs, 2 cups milk, ¾ cup white sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pour this mixture over the bread, making sure to evenly coat each piece.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top of the bread pudding springs back after lightly touching it with a fork.

Optional Buttery Brown Sugar Sauce

  • Grab a small saucepan, and melt (on high) 3 Tablespoons of salted butter.
    Once melted, turned it down to medium heat and wait a bit to let the butter brown.
  • Turn down to a simmer. Then, add in a tablespoon of brown sugar and the 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk/cream.
    Whisk to combine and simmer/whisk for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla.
    Serve over entire bread pudding in dish before serving or over individual servings.

Video

Notes

Helpful Info:
  • Which sauce to make? This bread pudding is great even without an optional sauce. However, if you want a sauce, I recommend picking one of the two. The browned butter sauce is more of an “accent” drizzle, and less rich/sweet than the vanilla sauce. I’ve recently added heavy cream as optional ingredient to help smooth the sauce out. If you prefer the older method, simply leave the cream out. The vanilla sauce is rich, more creamy, and more of a major topper for the bread pudding. Both are optional and not necessary for a delicious bread pudding.
  • How do you know when bread pudding is done? Just like almost any dessert, or bread that you're baking, insert a clean knife into the center and see if it comes out clean!
  • Can you freeze bread pudding? Yes! Bake it as normal, and once cooled, place in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to thaw it, place it in the refrigerator to thaw it out.
  • Can I prepare bread pudding the night before? Yes! You can either mix it all together and refrigerate it overnight before baking, or bake it, let it cool, and then refrigerate.
  • How to store leftovers For best results, store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days, in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (⅙ recipe) | Calories: 316kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 132mg | Sodium: 272mg | Potassium: 198mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 465IU | Calcium: 152mg | Iron: 1.5mg

Grocery List Template – Free Printable

Grocery Shopping List Template: This adorable and free printable will help you organize your grocery shopping to make things so much easier!

Post Originally Published in August 2013 – Updated in November 2020

Grocery List Template

So I don’t like grocery shopping as much as you do. Yes, sometimes if I get out of the house without the kids to go grocery shopping, it may feel a little like a vacation… but still… I DESPISE grocery shopping.

And now that grocery pick-up and delivery is a thing, my grocery shopping life is SO much easier. BUT…

Grocery Shopping List Template

Are you ready for me to make your grocery shopping life easier even if you do grocery pick-up and/or delivery? Welcome to my FREE GROCERY SHOPPING LIST TEMPLATE!

Get this free grocery shopping list right away, when you join my email list!

How to Use my Grocery Shopping Master List:

Free grocery shopping list template download

For probably close to 15 years, my mom has been using something that has changed her (and my) daunting grocery shopping trips.

She created a master copy of a grocery shopping list, and after taking hers and adding a little pink and “fantabulosity flair”, I’m sharing this version with you!

How to Use the Grocery List Template:

  • Simply select and print.
  • Hang it on the refrigerator door (or wherever your central station is).
  • Highlight the items with a highlighter as needed, as you run out or think of them.
  • Take the list with you to the store when you’re ready.
  • Grab your highlighted items at the store, and you're all set!

Print, again and again, to keep the same system going!

Common Grocery Items

Wondering if this list has common grocery items on it? YES! This list was created with everyday staples with a “family” in mind.

This list has the main categories you’re used to shopping for like,

  • Household
  • Breakfast Food
  • Bread
  • Deli
  • Dry Ingredients
  • Beverages
  • Dairy
  • Canned Foods
  • Children
  • Frozen Foods
  • Baking Goods
  • Spices
  • …and so much more!

With individual items under each category like:

  • butter
  • milk
  • cake mix
  • bread
  • shredded cheese
  • salt
  • pepper
  • cereal
  • pop tarts
  • light bulbs
  • paper towels
  • …and so many more everyday items you need!

My Favorite Ways to Grocery Shop:

I’m a BIG fan of Walmart Grocery Pickup and Instacart Delivery.

With two little boys at home… loading up and heading to the grocery store to spend an hour saying “no” to cookies, toys and fruit snacks… doesn’t really sound like a ton of fun.

So when Walmart grocery pickup and Instacart came to my hometown, I immediately fell in love.

I can easily place my order online and either head down the street to pick up my groceries, or they show up on my doorstep a few hours later with what I need!

List for Online Grocery Ordering

I STILL use this grocery shopping list, even though I’m ordering online.

I keep the grocery list handy throughout the week, and still mark up the items I need, as I realize we need them.

But the difference from going to the store, is I simply sit down on my couch while my favorite tv show is on, and I order away by what my list says I need!

Looking for More Printables?

Have a specific printable you’d love to see here? Let me know in the comments below. I’m a bit of a printable junkie, so if I know what you want… it will more than likely go on my list to create.

Baby Travel Checklist – Free Printable: What to Pack for Babies

Baby Travel Checklist: This baby traveling checklist free printable can be your lifesaver!

Traveling with a baby, can be super stressful at times. But honestly, that never kept us from planning a last minute trip with the baby, to get outta dodge. So if you’re notorious for planning last-minute trips, or you’re the “planner,” type… my free baby travel checklist  can be a HUGE life saver for you.

Baby Packing Travel Checklist - Free Dowload
Last minute, Miami Florida trip with our then, 8-week old little guy.

Baby Travel Checklist – Free Printable

A couple of weeks ago, I shared my updated “Toddler Packing List.” After updating that free printable, I knew the Baby Checklist HAD to be next. The toddler packing list went viral on Pinterest, and that told me that there’s a major need for organization when it comes to traveling with kids. I’ve also heard that tips for flying with a baby, are in high-demand from you all, so I’ll work on that asap. I’ve flown a time or two a hundred times with babies, and have learned some tricks along the way! I’d love to share those with you!

But without further ado… save my FREE baby packing travel checklist here: Baby Travel Packing Checklist

Baby Travel Checklist: Travel Edition Free Printable Download

Enjoy this free printable, and remember to “pin” it here, so you have it when you need it the next time! I hope this makes your life a little easier with traveling with a baby.

Before you get to packing, make sure you see HOW I pack clothes for my kiddos when we head out on vacation too. Talk about a major life saver! You can see my little trick HERE!

The SMART way to pack your Baby or Toddler for Vacation

If you’re on the hunt for more printables and organization printables, feel free to browse our free printables!

Ghost Craft for Kids

Ghost Craft for Kids: Such a fun project for the kids at Halloween. Just a few items, that you probably even have on hand, for craft time success!

two ghost craft projects on table
Ghost Craft for Halloween

When Halloween rolls around in our house, a craft is a MUST and this Ghost Halloween Craft is one of our favorites! It’s easy to make, and uses items that we usually have in our craft bin anyway!

Materials Needed:

  • White Cardstock, Small Posterboard, or White Construction Paper (Card Stock is thicker, so I chose this so it would hold up better}
  • Black Construction Paper
  • Scissors
  • Cotton Balls (amount depends on size of ghost you cut out. We used 35-40)
  • Googley Eyes
  • Glue (we use glue sticks to keep it less messy)

Just for fun, you’ll also love snacking on this Monster Mix or these Halloween pretzel sticks, while you’re crafting!

Instructions:

  1. Start by using white cardstock, and cut a “bell” shape (or upside down “U”) and feel free to add a scalloped edge to the bottom, to give the ghost a “flowy” look.
Ghost template on white cardstock
Ghost template
  1. Next, cut out the ghost shape with scissors.
Cutting ghost template out of paper
Cut out ghost
  1. Then, using black construction paper, cut out a small round or oval shape, to create the mouth of the ghost. Glue on to ghost where the mouth should go.
Scissors cutting out mouth, from black construction paper
Cut out mouth
  1. Using adhesive craft eyes, stick the eyes on to the ghost. (Or, if not adhesive eyes, glue the eyes on.)
Attaching eyes to ghost paper
Add eyes to ghost
Both eyes on ghost
Both eyes added
  1. Next, using glue (we use a glue stick but you can use Elmer’s glue if desired) spread glue on the white parts of the ghost.
Stick glue spread on ghost
Use a glue stick
  1. Begin sticking cotton balls on to glue, pressing down to secure each ball.
Hand sticking cotton balls on to ghost
Stick cotton balls on to ghost
  1. Cover the entire ghost with as many cotton balls as it takes, making sure the eyes and mouth still show.
ghost craft being held up by kid hands
Ghost Craft Idea
cotton ball ghost craft being held by kiddo hand
Kids Ghost Craft

Then it’s done! Hang it up on the refrigerator, in their bedroom or out on a display for all the trick-or-treaters to see!

Hint: Save it for next year as a little keepsake, and you can display it for Halloween again!

Related Halloween Ideas

I also think you’ll love this pumpkin patch dessert that we love making this time of year!

Recipe

Yield: 1 ghost

Ghost Craft

cotton ball ghosts craft

Ghost Craft for Kids: Such a fun project for the kids at Halloween. Just a few items, that you probably even have on hand, for craft time success!

Active Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Difficulty Easy

Materials

  • white card stock (or mini poster board)
  • black construction paper
  • cotton balls
  • glue stick (or Elmer's Glue)
  • googly eyes

Tools

  • scissors

Instructions

    1. Start by using white cardstock, or mini white poster board, and cut out a "bell" shape or an upside-down "U" shape. Feel free to scallop the bottom if desired, or keep it straight across.
    2. Next, cut out that shape with the scissors.
    3. Then, using black construction paper, cut out a round or oval shape, for the ghost's mouth. Glue on.
    4. Using adhesive googly eyes, stick two on the ghost. Or, if they're not adhesive, glue them on.
    5. Next, using glue, spread glue on to the whites of the ghost, around the eyes and mouth.
    6. Begin sticking cotton balls to glue, pressing down to secure each cotton ball.
    7. Cover the entire ghost with cotton balls.
    8. Allow to dry!
© Jessica

A flashback to when my toddler made this for the first time and I had to help him. Now, he did it all on his own!

Halloween Ghost Craft for Kids-5
Toddler Halloween Craft, Ghost Halloween Craft for Kids

Best Banana Bread

This banana bread recipe is the one I come back to over and over. It’s soft, incredibly moist, and made with one simple ingredient that makes all the difference. If you've been searching for a banana bread that actually turns out every time, this is it.

This recipe uses buttermilk for extra moisture and a tender crumb. It adds just enough richness and moisture to keep the bread from drying out, while also enhancing the overall flavor.

Easy Banana Bread

This is one of those recipes people come back to again and again because it just works.

Bread recipes are one of our favorite recipes to bake but this banana bread is the BEST and is now a favorite in so many kitchens! While it’s moist and delicious on its own, it would be a fun treat to serve with some vanilla sauce, or even add some blackberries in this banana bread.

If you love easy, comforting recipes like this, you may also enjoy these old-fashioned cake recipes.

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Banana Bread Testimonial Review - Best
A Fantabulosity reader thinks this is the best banana bread recipe too! Thank you for sharing Jeanne!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread

  • Secret Ingredient: It’s buttermilk (or substitute with a combination of lemon juice and milk), that creates a moist, flavorful banana bread.
  • Classic and Flexible. You can add your favorite additions if you want something other than regular banana bread. For instance, chocolate chips, nuts, and blueberries are DELICIOUS in this recipe!
  • Extra Bananas: It’s a great way to use up bananas that are turning brown!
This banana bread is UNBELIEVABLE! https://fantabulosity.com

How to Make Banana Bread Moist

To get the best results, use very ripe bananas, avoid overmixing the batter, and don't overbake. The buttermilk also helps create a soft texture that stays moist for days.

What Baking Pan to Use for Banana Bread

I’ve made this recipe using regular loaf pans and mini loaf pans. Honestly, it doesn’t matter to me which way I make it because it’s delicious either way. However, if making in mini loaf pans, you’ll want to bake it for less time.

Mini Loaf Pans

The first time I made this, I knew I wanted to use the CUTEST little mini loaf baking pan so I knew I need to adjust the bake time.

If you’re using a mini loaf pan (since all can be different) just start checking the middle after about 20 minutes of baking, and remove them when a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.

Regular Loaf Pans

My oven cooks SUPER fast, so I had to be cautious when it came to baking this banana bread. So where I had to bake my banana bread in regular size loaf pans for 40 minutes, it may take anywhere from 40-55 minutes for your oven.

Periodically check with a toothpick until the center comes out clean after about 40 minutes.

SIDE NOTE: Since I used two different pans, they both cooked differently too. One pan was much thinner than the other, so that loaf of bread finished before the other.

How to Make the Best Banana Bread

For the full list of ingredients and instructions all in one place, see the printable recipe card toward the bottom of this post!

Easy Banana Bread

Start with Ripe Bananas

I’m not going to lie. When I see at least 3 bananas on my counter that are starting to turn a little brown, I get a little too excited.

I despise eating bananas by themselves. But turn them into banana bread, and you can’t keep me out of it.

For this recipe, start with ripe bananas.

Don’t worry… if you need to make this old-fashioned banana bread NOW, and the store only had underripe bananas… you can ripen bananas for banana bread.

Ripe bananas recipes

Secret Ingredient – Buttermilk for Banana Bread

I truly believe there’s an ingredient in this banana bread recipe that makes it so good, and moist.  Buttermilk. Yes, really!

Buttermilk Substitute

Don’t have buttermilk on hand, DON’T worry! In a small dish or bowl, mix together ½ cup milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice! Works perfect every time!

Buttermilk makes banana bread moist!

Banana Bread Batter

With a mixer, mix the butter and the sugar.

Banana Bread few ingredients - moist and the BEST

Next, add in the mashed bananas and the eggs.

How to mash bananas - ziploc bag

Pro Tip: Throw your bananas into a Ziploc bag, seal, and mash them with your hands through the bag or with a rolling pin!

flour, baking soda, salt mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together your flour, baking soda, and salt.

Alternate the flour mixture and the buttermilk

Next, fold in the dry ingredients, alternating the buttermilk (or milk and lemon juice) with the flour.

Mix together milk and lemon juice to make buttermilk for banana bread
Mix together the banana bread ingredients

Once that is mixed, you’re ready to add to your desired, greased baking dish.

How Long to Bake Banana Bread in Oven

Mini loaves take me about 20 minutes, and two regular loaf pans take about 40 minutes.

Pour batter in to two different regular size loaf pans
Banana Bread Recipe - Easy and the BEST

How Long to Cool Banana Bread

Once you remove your banana bread from the oven, let it sit a few minutes and then release it from the loaf pan to fully cool on a wire rack. (I do this when we want to eat it in a hurry.)

Banana Bread - moist and the best

Slice and serve!

But do me a favor… if you’re making it just for fun, give it a try when it’s warm. You won’t regret it.

FAQs and Expert Tips

Can you use too many bananas in banana bread?

YES! Using too much banana can make the bread soggy and too dense. This recipe calls for only 3 bananas (about 1 ½ cups of mashed bananas).

How do you ripen bananas?

If you have bananas that are not ripened but you want to make banana bread, place the bananas, still in the peels, on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 300° until they turn black. See my tips on how to ripen bananas in the oven!

Easy Banana Bread Recipe

How Long Does Banana Bread Last?

Banana bread can sit out on the counter for four days, and leaving it at room temperature will help it stay moist longer. Refrigerating banana bread can cause it to dry out faster.

Can Banana Bread Sit Out Overnight?

Yes, banana bread can sit out overnight.

How to Freeze Banana Bread

You can freeze banana bread for up to 3 months, as long as it’s stored correctly! It’s best to store, wrapped, in a freezer bag, freezer paper or even a vacuum-sealed bag. (Just remember to choose the setting that won’t flatten it out while removing the air.)

More Bread Recipes You’ll Love:

If you loved this recipe, then you’ll also love this Easy Bread Pudding Recipe and this Banana Bread Pudding! Or try this chocolate quick bread.

If you love banana flavor for a sweet treat, this banana pudding poke cake recipe is one to save.

Recipe

Sliced banana bread on white platter
Print Pin
4.52 from 95 votes

Best Banana Bread Recipe (Moist, Easy, and Never Dry)

It's the secret ingredient that makes this the BEST banana bread recipe that makes it so moist and so delicious. Plus, it's easy, quick and uses simple ingredients.
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 352kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • 2 loaf pans or mini loaf pans
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • measuring spoons and cups
  • hand mixer or stand mixer

Ingredients

  • ½ cup buttermilk or you can combine ½ cup milk with 2 teaspoons lemon juice & set aside to curdle
  • ¾ cup butter softened (1½ sticks)
  • 1½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1½ cup very ripe bananas mashed, which is about 3 large bananas
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Mix-Ins (optional):

  • chocolate chips
  • nuts walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and the sugar.
    ¾ cup butter, 1½ cup granulated sugar
  • Add in the mashed bananas and eggs. Mix together until well combined.
    1½ cup very ripe bananas, 2 eggs
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
    2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt
  • Add the flour mixture and the buttermilk alternately to the wet mixture, and mix with a hand mixer on low or by hand until combined. (If you're adding chocolate chips/nuts, add to mixture and hand stir to combine.)
    ½ cup buttermilk, chocolate chips, nuts
  • If baking in regular-size loaf pans (split batter in half between the two.) 
    If using mini loaf pans, fill each cavities about half way.
  • If baking in regular-size loaf pans, bake at 325 for 40-45 minutes. (Some have stated their ovens do better at baking for 50-55 minutes.) 
     If baking in mini loaf pans, bake at 325 and begin checking after 20 minutes with a toothpick to see if it comes out clean. (Because each mini loaf size is different like mentioned above.)

Video

Notes

How long does banana bread last?
Banana bread can sit out on the counter for four days. Store in a bag or airtight container so it doesn’t dry out easily.
How to Freeze Banana Bread:
You can freeze banana bread for up to 3 months, as long as it’s stored correctly! It’s best to store, wrapped, in a freezer bag, freezer paper or even a vacuum-sealed bag. (Just remember to choose the setting that won’t flatten it out while removing the air.)

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice (⅛ loaf) | Calories: 352kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 88mg | Sodium: 611mg | Potassium: 124mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 625IU | Vitamin C: 1.2mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1.7mg

My 10 Favorite Stores to Shop at for Mom Clothes

As a mom, and some over 30 (pushing 40 now) I was feeling stuck for a long time on where to shop for clothes. I wasn’t sure if I’d feel silly shopping at Forever21 (but stay tuned to see what I shop for there now!) and found it hard to find a pair of jeans that didn’t make my “mom pooch” stick out like a sore… uh… thumb. (Yeah, that’s it. Sore thumb.)

Woman in overalls standing in front of mirror

Shop the overalls!

I’m a 30-somethin’ year old gal, who has two little, mud-lovin’, boys at home.

In a perfect world, I’d love to dress up every day in something like a fancy all-white trench suit, or a fun dress.

But let’s face it. I’d have that gorgeous white pants suit on, and my youngest would chuck his melted chocolate chip muffin at it, and game over.

You have littles too? You’ll LOVE these “mom life” shirts that I’ve found for us mamas!

So if I’m not wearing one of my favorite “mom life shirts“, as a mom, on-the-go, I have to think practical, versatile, and affordable. (You know, for those outfits that can’t see the light of day again, because of the chocolate chip muffin incident I mentioned a second ago.)  So when shopping at my favorite stores, I always try to keep those three main bullet points in mind:

3 Things to Keep in Mind While Shopping

There are a few things I like to keep in mind when I’m shopping for clothes and when I’m looking for stores to shop at.

• Practical

I’m a mom, so even though I’d love to play “dress up” every single day… it’s not going to happen. We may be off to the park, wrestling in the living room, or sitting and doing homeschool multiple hours a day. So I make sure to only buy clothes that I TRULY think I’ll wear.

No more “I may need that one day” conversations with myself, as I’m buying something I know good and well will just hang in the closet.

Woman posing in yoga pants and a black jacket

• Versatile

I work at home so I don’t want to be sitting on my laptop, wearing a pair of stiff jeans every day. So you’ll normally find me wearing a pair of comfortable jeans or even yoga pants that are suitable for going out in public. (See my tips for staying active as a stay at home mom too!)

This makes it easy to wear something comfortable at home but yet ready to hop up and run to Home Goods down the road if the mood strikes.

Woman wearing jeans and a tank top

• Affordable

I’m notorious for trying to quickly make lunch for my kids, forgetting to my apron on. This usually results in staining one of my favorite shirts… so considering I’m almost 40 and haven’t learned my lesson yet, I have to make sure my clothes are affordable, in case I ruin them.

woman wearing blue romper

Clothing Stores for Moms over 30 and 40

Are there endless stores and boutiques out there that women over 30 can shop at? Of course. So just because I don’t mention them, doesn’t mean that you should stay away from it. All I’m doing is listing my favorite stores that seem to compliment the three bullet points that I shop by…

1. Target

Can I get an amen!? Target will totally come to my rescue for the best fashion finds, when I run in for shampoo. They do have styles at times that aren’t my favorite but I can usually find a t-shirt or casual top that will be a winner. (The overalls at the top of the post??? Target.)

woman wearing yoga pants and athletic shirt

2. H&M

It’s been a favorite for years. It’s also a “hit or miss.” Then there are also those times I walk in there, (shop online) and see a “Whaaaaa?! Is that seriously in style now?” item.

But more times than not, I find basics and super cute items that are great for mom-life and looking stylish. The red and black buffalo plaid shirt in the photo below? That came from H&M. It’s one of my faves.

Fashion for moms tips ideas and the stores that she loves to shop at that are affordable and practical. fantabulosity.com

See the outfit details in the photo above here: Best Leggings Ever + Red Buffalo Plaid

3. Nordstrom

Ok, don’t get scared budgeting mama. I hear you loud and clear. The name Nordstrom scared me to death for years. I didn’t even want to look over to the store window when I’d bypass it at the mall. I had heard how expensive it was and made sure to stay away from there, in case I accidentally bought something by staring at it.

That was until a good friend of mine wanted to go in to look one day, and I had already gone to the bathroom, had a Starbucks in hand, and couldn’t think of another excuse of why I couldn’t walk inside there with her.

To my surprise, she headed right towards a section of clothes that had price tags on it, that was VERY comparable to other stores that I shopped at. I couldn’t believe it. She explained to me that they have different sections of brands/designers, and there were definitely more expensive items in the store, but that I could feel safe hanging out with her in the comfortable price range area. So give it a whirl.

4. Modcloth

I’m a sucker for dresses. Sundresses at that. They tend to pull off a timeless look, aren’t too short, and can be classy, casual, and dressy all at the same time if need be. When I have a blog photo session coming up, or family photos, I make sure to check here.

I’ve had wonderful experiences with them with all of my orders too! This green dress was purchased from there, and it’s by FAR, one of my favorites. Shop Modcloth HERE!

Fashion for moms tips ideas and the stores that she loves to shop at that are affordable and practical. fantabulosity.com

5. Amazon

More and more these days, I find adorable clothes on Amazon. It has a HUGE selection so that can be overwhelming at times but if I have an idea of what I’m looking for (i.e. pink dress with white polka dots) and I can type that in and get a ton of results to choose from. That’s really nice, as opposed to going to some other online store and they may not even have a pink dress in stock.

woman wearing a pink polka dot dress

Shop this pink dress I’m wearing and shop this hat from Gigi Pip hats, using code: JESSICAB10 to get 10% off!

Woman wearing fitness attire

I also love buying workout clothes from Amazon, and my white tennis shoes!

6. LOFT

I was scared of LOFT too for a long time because I thought it would be crazy expensive. But when I realized the quality of their clothes… it was a game-changer.
I may only pay $24.99 or so for a shirt at Target, and a full-price shirt at Loft may be closer to $40.00 for the same type… but it seems to last SO much longer.

Plus, LOFT is just like any online store… they run SALES and I stock up when my favorites are on sale.

What are my favorites from LOFT?

Their tops and their dresses. When I need something classy for say, a date night, I love their flowy tops that I can pair with a dark pair of denim jeans.

Mom Clothes - floral dress from LOFT

7. J.Crew Factory Outlet

Now I do love J.Crew, but it’s so much more enjoyable while shopping at the J. Crew Factory Outlet, simply because of the price. Everything seems to always be at least 50% off, and I feel like I’ve found a deal every time I shop online there.

I’ll mostly snag cute tops, like this adorable scalloped cami and leopard flats below, from J.Crew Factory Outlet or puffy vests in the winter season.

8. SheIn

This is a newer love, and to be honest, I didn’t really trust this store when I saw it online. Why? Because their prices just seemed way too good to be true.

But I decided to risk it and buy a couple items one day, and I was VERY pleased with it and continue to buy from here. I tend to buy a LOT of dresses from Shein and a lot of workout clothes and undergarments! Shop SheIn here!

Woman wearing light blue dress
Woman wearing red workout pants
woman wearing tan dress

9. American Eagle

Up until a few months ago, I hadn’t shopped at American Eagle since high school. But desperate to find jeans that weren’t high rise, I thought I’d give it a chance. I didn’t find any jeans but I did find this super cute dress and now go in there to see what I may randomly find! I can usually find something casual and super cute… if I just ignore the items that are not my style.

Woman wearing denim dress

10. Forever21

Now, I will say that I RARELY find anything at Forever21 these days… EXCEPT swimming suits. I absolutely love how they fit and how affordable they are! They usually have the tops and bottoms separate which is nice if you need different sizes than what they may pair together themselves.

Woman wearing light blue swimming suit
woman in swimming suit by pool

What is YOUR Favorite Store for Mom Clothes?

I SO hope that you found at least a little outfit inspiration for your mom-self, in this post!

I don’t always get to share new outfits on the blog, but I do tend to share most of them on my Instagram, so head over there for up to date trends!

See my CURRENT favorite fashion finds, and shop my Instagram HERE!

I’d love to hear what your favorite store to shop at is! Let me know in the comments below because I’d LOVE to add it to my online shopping routine.

Some of my Old Favorite Pieces

This post has been up since 2015 or so… but my thoughts and opinions have changed over the years so I’ve made sure to update accordingly. But I thought it would be fun to leave the old items up as well for a look down memory lane at some of the most popular outfits here on the blog!

fashion for moms over 30, and stores to shop at
Fashion for moms tips ideas and the stores that she loves to shop at that are affordable and practical. fantabulosity.com

See the outfit details in the photo above here: Cozy Neutrals + A Bootie Must-Have

J.Crew Vests paired with Hunter Boots. One of my FAVORITE outfits in the winter! fantabulosity.com

See the outfit details in the photo above here: Vests are Best + Hunter Boots

Fashion for moms tips ideas and the stores that she loves to shop at that are affordable and practical. fantabulosity.com

See the outfit details of the photo above here: Dressy Trench + Winter Neutrals

How to Make Popcorn in the Microwave

How to make popcorn in the microwave with little effort – a quick and easy way to pop popcorn, without oil, in brown lunch bags and it’s ready in minutes & perfect for movie night!

If you love snack recipes, get ready because we have some of the best around here, like this homemade chex mix and these chocolate-dipped animal crackers.

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown paper bag. Without oil!
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I never realized how much better making homemade popcorn was than store-bought. I find that store-bought microwave popcorn packets have a “film” or “waxy” texture to it but I didn’t have a popcorn popper, an air popper and had no idea how to make stovetop popcorn.

But I didn’t know you could make your own microwave popcorn like this until we had a friend show us how, and now it’s the only way we do it!

Can you pop plain popcorn in the microwave?

Absolutely. All it takes is popcorn kernels, brown paper bags and a few minutes to make this paper bag popcorn!

Then – take it a step further and melt some homemade butter to pour over the top!

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown paper bag

The first time we tried doing this in the microwave oven, we ended up with popcorn EVERYWHERE, and it was a huge mess. We had only used one bag, and folded the top over with the opening folded under.

But, as it cooked, the popped popcorn expanded and caused popcorn to come out of the bag and go all over the place.

Then my brilliant, yes BRILLIANT husband, came up with an amazing idea for the paper bag method, and it has worked like a charm ever since. I’ll show you how we pop it without a mess! (I’ll show you the “how-to,” through the photos, but there’s also a recipe below!)

Brown Bag Microwave Popcorn:

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

There are just a few simple steps!

Grab two brown paper bags, and pour a half of a cup of unpopped kernels in the bottom of one paper bag.

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

Open the other brown paper lunch bag, and slide the top of the bag over the top of the other, creating a closed package for the popcorn to pop in.

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils
How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

Lay the brown bag on it’s side, inside of the microwave and cook.

How long to Cook Popcorn in the Microwave?

We have one of those “popcorn,” sensory cook buttons on our microwave, but when prepping this post, I paid attention to the popcorn microwave time, so I could give you a cooking time.

HOWEVER, each microwave setting can be different so the exact time may vary. So I really recommend to start with 3-4 minutes and listen to how the popcorn pops. When you hear it really slowing down, stop the cooking process and pull it out of the microwave. (CAUTION: HOT!!)

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

When popcorn is finished…

When the popcorn has stopped popping or the 3-4 minutes is up, simply pull the two bags apart (try to do this over a big bowl, as some popcorn may fall out while separating the two bags).

How to Flavor Microwave Popcorn

After trial and error, we’ve also figured out our favorite ways to flavor up the popcorn.

Doesn’t it drive you nuts when you go to the movies; you sit down in your comfy chair to enjoy the movie, dig in and eat your popcorn… only to find that the popcorn is so bland and nasty after the first layer is gone? (Right, I know that life could be worse. But when that bag of popcorn takes a ¼ out of my child’s college fund, it’s pretty disappointing when the flavor is gone before the movie even starts.)

So we figured out a way to make the flavor last, and “STICK,” to the popcorn, so we can enjoy every stinking bite… all the way down to the bottom!

Healthy Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

Popcorn Butter and Seasoning

First we put a small layer of the popped popcorn in a large bowl. (So as you’re pulling the two bags apart, only pour a small layer of popcorn in the bowl first.)

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

Then grab your favorite popcorn seasoning and sprinkle on a layer, all over the popcorn.

(Our favorite popcorn seasonings, (Kernel Season’s flavorings are our favorite and you can usually find them at your local grocery store or online) and we sprinkle layers of this in the order I share next.)

Popcorn Seasoning Ideas

If you don’t have specific popcorn seasoning on hand, there are many different ways you can season it! Here are some fun ideas that we’ve tried as well, or that others love too so feel free to use your favorite topping!

  • Garlic Salt
  • Nutritional Yeast
  • Brown Sugar
  • Popcorn Salt
  • Garlic Powder
  • Seasoning Salt
  • Kosher Salt
  • Fresh rosemary
Seasonings on homemade popcorn
How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag with no oils

Then, we grab the Orville Redenbacher’s butter flavor topping, (also our favorite, and sometimes called “fake butter”) and drizzle a layer of butter (as much butter as you prefer) on top of the seasonings. You can also use melted butter!

Popcorn butter for homemade popcorn
How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag and flavors and butter!

Next, we sprinkle another layer of seasoning. (Sometimes mixing up the flavors for a bit of fun!)

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag and flavors and butter!

Then it’s time for another small layer of popcorn…

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag and flavors and butter!

Then repeat the seasoning process! So here’s the order in how we season and make the microwave popcorn better!

  1. Layer of popcorn
  2. Season with favorite seasoning (this could be salt or other fun flavors like we use!)
  3. Drizzle of butter
  4. More seasoning
  5. Another layer of popcorn
  6. Repeat with #2-#5 until all popcorn has been seasoned!
How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave in a brown bag and flavors and butter!

Serve Right Away

For best results, fresh popcorn has the best flavor if you eat it right away. However, we’ve been known to make a big batch and have some leftover. So once it’s cooled off, we store it in an airtight container and snack on it the next day!

It does have a different texture but if I’m being honest… it’s actually still REALLY good the next day!

We’re the “Popcorn People”

Now, after perfecting the homemade microwave popcorn recipe, we even have family asking for it when they come over because it has become a favorite snack food.

So the next time you want popcorn, I hope you give this a try! Let me know how you like it! You may just be hooked like we are!

More Popcorn Recipes and Other Ways to Enjoy Popcorn

Originally published: June 2021
Updated and republished: April 2025

Recipe

Homemade popcorn with butter and seasonings sprinkled on.
Print Pin
5 from 3 votes

Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave

How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave: A quick and easy way to pop microwave popcorn, without oil, in a brown bag, and it's ready in minutes!
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 12 cups
Calories 26kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • microwave

Ingredients

  • 2 brown paper bags
  • ½ cup uncooked popcorn kernels We use Orville Redenbacher Corn or even off-brand yellow popping corn.
  • Popcorn Seasoning We LOVE Kernel Season's
  • Popcorn butter topping We LOVE Orville Redenbacher’s

Instructions

  • Open one brown paper bag, and pour in the cup of kernels.
  • Using the other brown paper bag, open it up and slide it down on top of the other, creating an enclosed bag for it to pop in.
  • Place the bag on it’s side in the microwave and cook for 3-4 minutes, listening for the kernels to slow down.
  • NOTE: Each microwave is different and cooking times may vary. We use our popcorn sensing button, and it pops for about 3 minutes.
  • Remove popcorn from microwave, and gently pull the two bags apart from one another.
  • Caution: HOT!!
  • Pour one layer of the popcorn in to a large bowl.
  • Sprinkle with popcorn seasoning desired
  • Then drizzle popcorn butter on top
  • Repeat with another layer of seasoning.
  • Add another layer of popcorn, and repeat the seasoning process until all of the popcorn has been seasoned.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 3cups | Calories: 26kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 19mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg

Avocado Wontons

Guacamole Wontons Recipe: Turning a favorite appetizer recipe, crab rangoons, into a dynamite recipe with a combination of the best guacamole, cream cheese, and spices.

gucamole wontons

I don’t know if I’ve been hiding under a rock, or if Avocado (or guacamole) Wontons are a new thing to hit restaurants.

But after having them one night at a local pub, I was determined to find a guacamole wontons recipe to fix for my family. But to my dismay… I couldn’t find one online! So… it was time to get creative and come up with my own recipe, and YUM!!!

Avocado Wontons

Please keep in mind, it all depends on how many wontons you want to make. The ingredients below, are for about a 2 person serving. This made about 10 guacamole wontons, but we had tons of wonton wrappers leftover from the package, so you can double, triple, quadruple this batch if you like!

Different Ways to Use Avocados

You know when you grab a bag of avocados from the store with the intentions of eating them all before they get too ripe? Well, if you don’t play it just right, time can run out and you’re left with a bag of avocados that you need to eat up quickly! See my tips on how to keep avocados fresh.

So making a batch of these wontons is one of my favorite ways… or, I’m also a BIG fan of avocado toast recipes and love having it for breakfast!

The BEST Guacamole Recipe:

For this recipe, we LOVE using this delicious guacamole recipe that has been pinned close to 100,000 times on Pinterest. Yes really… it is the best! But if you’re pressed for time or don’t have the ingredients on hand you can use store-bought guac or even just mashed avocado!

 How to Fold a Wonton:

There are a few different ways to fold a wonton. No matter which way you do it… just make sure the filling is secure inside, by closing all of the edges.

This is one way you could fold a wonton:

Put a small amount of the filling in the bottom-center (in the corner) of your wonton. (Image below.)

Fold the bottom corner over the guacamole mixture, and press on to the center.

Guacamole Wontons Recipe https://fantabulosity.com

Grab the bottom right corner and fold that towards the center as well.

Guacamole Wontons Recipe https://fantabulosity.com

Same with the bottom left corner, fold towards the center.

Guacamole Wontons Recipe https://fantabulosity.com

After folded: 

One by one, add a wonton to the heated oil. Fry on each side for about 15 minutes or until it reaches an overall golden brown color.

guacamole wontons recipe

Sauce for Wontons

You can eat guacamole wontons by themself or you can dip them in a sauce for some extra flavor! Sauces like:

Bite taken out of wonton with sauce.
Sweet chili sauce

More Appetizers

If you love fun appetizers like this one, then you’ll also love easy taco dip, easy pico de Gallo recipe, and chips and salsa, especially if you’re hosting a party so guests can snack on these fun dishes all night!

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

Print Pin
5 from 4 votes

Avocado Wontons

Avocado Wontons are delicious guacamole or mashed avocado wrapped in a wonton and fried to perfection. These quick and easy bite-sized apps are perfect for parties and potlucks!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 15 wontons
Calories 368kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 package wonton wrappers
  • ½ cup guacamole or mashed avocado – I used store bought to save some time
  • 1 tablespoon cream cheese
  • 2 cups oil for frying
  • sweet chili sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions

  • Heat enough oil in a deep skillet or pan, {about an inch deep} over medium-high heat.
  • Mix together the guacamole and cream cheese until blended.
  • Lay out a wonton wrapper, and put about a teaspoon of the guacamole mixture on to one corner of a wonton.
  • Fold your wonton: There are many ways you can do this, and feel free to fold as you like, but you can see in the steps above how I folded it, and it worked great!
  • Add your wrapped wontons to the heated oil, and fry for about 15 seconds on each side, or until the wontons become a nice golden brown.
  • Remove from oil, and lay wontons on a plate, that is covered with a paper towel to soak up any remaining oil. Serve immediately, with sweet chili sauce for dipping (optional).

Notes

Feel free to use guacamole or mashed avocado for this recipe! Using guacamole can add more spices and flavor to these avocado wontons.
Serve with dippings sauces if desired, such as:

Nutrition

Serving: 5wonton | Calories: 368kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 175mg | Potassium: 66mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 29IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

The BEST Bruschetta Recipe

Bruschetta Recipe – The BEST recipe there is! Whether you’re serving this on a slice of bread, or on top of chicken, you’ll love the fresh flavors in this easy to make recipe!

Bruschetta slices on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by fresh parsley.

I have a “go-to” appetizer recipe when I’m having guests over, and you’re lookin’ at it.

Easy Bruschetta Recipe

Bruschetta is one of the quickest & easiest appetizers to throw together when we are having people over, and if you’re having people over, don’t forget to save my free party planning checklist, to make sure you don’t forget the most important things!

Whether a small dinner party or a large crowd, this recipe is a hit. It’s classy, easy to pick up and eat, and the guests drool over its deliciousness.

I mean, look at this comment that sweet Kimberly said below in the comments on this recipe:

“Great for my Law School Study Group and Brunch At My Brother's!! Everyone raves about it. Each person ate no less than 4-6 each and thought I catered it. It was so pretty and so tasty!! I am your BIGGEST FAN & that of the BRUSCHETTA too, of course!!! Thank you so much. Please keep sharing!! We need you!!!”

The best part?  It gives an impressive appearance that looks like it took a long time to prepare.
(But it doesn’t!)

More Easy Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love:

What is Bruschetta?

Well if you ask Wikipedia, it pretty much says that it’s toasted bread with olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. Or you can even do a “breakfast” version and do an avocado tomato “bruschetta” toast!

The BEST Bruschetta Recipe

But if you ask me, the best bruschetta consists of a little butter, French bread, a little cheese (mozzarella, provolone, parmesan or whatever your favorite choosing is) spices and fresh herbs. Here’s what you’ll need:

(Full recipe card and instructions below!)

  • Roma tomatoes
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh parsley
  • Fresh basil
  • Cloves of garlic
  • Salt (I love using Kosher Salt, but table salt would work just fine)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (to add a slight kick)
  • Black pepper
  • Shredded parmesan cheese (grated works too)
  • French baguette (or make this Italian bread recipe as it would be delicious too!) (
    If buying store-bought, I use the mini loaves, for a smaller “bite-size” appetizer.)
  • Butter
Ingredients to make bruschetta sitting on counter.

Some love balsamic vinegar drizzled across their bruschetta, so feel free to do so… but I’m not a fan, so I leave that off and I’ve NEVER heard one of my guests wish they had it.

How to Make Bruschetta

It’s easy and perfect for any beginner in the kitchen! (Full recipe card and instructions at the bottom of this post!)

Toast Bread:

You’ll start by slicing your bread in to small pieces – about a half an inch thick but don’t measure too hard. Just a good size for biting.

Slice bread in to small pieces.

Toasting your French baguette with the butter and melted cheese. Set aside and let cool. (If you have any leftover bread, you should consider making cheese avocado toast the next morning!)

Melted cheese on small pieces of toasted bread.

Chop and Mix Tomato Bruschetta Ingredients:

While cooling, this is the perfect time to chop and combine the ingredients for the bruschetta topping.

Bruschetta topping ingredients in a glass bowl.

Easily Assemble Bruschetta:

Spoon a tablespoon or so of the bruschetta mixture on top of the golden brown toast.

TIP: Do not top bread with bruschetta mixture until right before serving, so it keeps from getting soggy!

Bruschetta complete and ready to eat, on a white platter.

Tip for Tomato Bruschetta

When it comes to the tomatoes, although it’s tempting to make ahead, refrigerating the tomato bruschetta mixture is not recommended. Refrigerating really takes the flavor out of the tomatoes.

“Can I Use Dried Herbs?”

You can, but if you’re able… the fresh herbs give this bruschetta recipe the BEST flavor.

Bruschetta Chicken

One of my favorite chicken recipes is the Salt & Pepper Chicken Bites that I shared with you. If you’re looking for low-carb and keto recipes, consider combining the tomato bruschetta mixture with the salt & pepper chicken bites for a fresh, quick and delicious dinner!

More Easy Appetizer Recipes

If you’re hosting and looking for more recipes to serve your guests, you’re going to LOVE these bacon-wrapped dates! The saltiness of the bacon, sweetness of the dates and the creaminess of the cheese, all combine to make a bite-size flavor that’s perfect for guests!

Rate This Recipe

Did you love it as much as we do?! We’d love to hear from you and see your “star rating” in the recipe card above!

For more, easy recipes, head to the archives and pin your favorites to your Pinterest boards to have them for your meal planning!

Recipe

Bruschetta slice sitting on wooden cutting board.
Print Pin
4.28 from 33 votes

Easy Bruschetta Recipe

Easy Bruschetta Recipe – The BEST + So Addicting: Whether you’re serving this on a slice of bread, or on top of chicken, you’ll find this one of the best bruschetta recipes there is!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 11 minutes
Servings 10 servings (20 bruschetta bites)
Calories 130kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

Toasted Bread:

  • 1 French baguette sliced into ½ inch slices (I use the mini loaves, for a smaller “bite-size” appetizer.)
  • 2 Tablespoons butter for spreading not necessary but recommended
  • 5 slices provolone cheese cut into fourths, can substitute with another white cheese

Bruschetta:

  • 4 Roma tomatoes chopped, (or other type of tomato is fine!)
  • 3 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley minced
  • ¼ cup fresh basil minced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced and chopped
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt I love using Kosher Salt, but table salt would work just fine
  • ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or to taste
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (grated works too)

Instructions

  • Spread a small dab of butter on sliced baguettes, and top each baguette with a slice of the quartered cheese.
  • Place the baguettes on an ungreased baking sheet, and broil in the oven for 1 minute (or until the cheese is melted, and the bread is slightly toasted.)
  • Combine all ingredients for bruschetta.
  • Top each baguette slice with about a Tablespoon of the tomato-herbed mixture, and serve immediately!

Video

Notes

Make-Ahead: Although tempting, do not refrigerate the tomato-bruschetta mixture. The tomatoes lose flavor.
Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs for the ultimate fresh taste!

Nutrition

Serving: 2bruschetta bites | Calories: 130kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 264mg | Potassium: 98mg | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 4.9mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 0.9mg

Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe

Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe: Lobster soup with heavy cream, imitation lobster, and savory spices. Surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients and something the whole family can enjoy!

Lobster bisque in bowl, next to crackers, and parsley.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This lobster bisque is similar to lobster bisque at a fancy restaurant. The recipe and ingredients are simple but the flavors are strong and the texture is extra creamy.

Imitation lobster is super easy to cook with, tasty, and saves you the hefty price tag of fresh lobster meat. Cooking bisque with imitation crab and lobster is so much more affordable but you can definitely use fresh, real lobster in this.

I love reheating soup recipes for a quick and easy lunch the next day! Soup keeps well in the fridge so it’s perfect for meal prepping. (Especially this clam chowder recipe and this loaded baked potato soup recipe!)

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Ingredients for Lobster Bisque Soup

You only need a handful of lobster bisque ingredients.

Ingredients for easy lobster bisque.

Full list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

  • Old Bay Seasoning – I prefer using 4 tablespoons but you may want to start with 2, and add more later if desired, considering it can get spicy.
  • Fresh Parsley – I know it’s not always easy to keep fresh parsley on hand but it’s highly recommended for this recipe.
  • Imitation Lobster – Real lobster works too but imitation can be more affordable
  • Chicken Broth – Storebought or my easy chicken broth recipe is great for this too.

Roux (optional – if you like a thicker bisque)

  • 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tablespoons butter

Or more, depending on the thickness of the bisque desired.

Instructions for Easy Lobster Bisque

Ingredients added to stock pot for lobster bisque.
1. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, Old Bay, fresh parsley, chicken broth and pepper.
Hand blender being used to blend soup in pot.
2. Mix with blender.
Lobster added to soup in pot.
3. Add imitation lobster. Cook for 45 minutes.
Heavy cream added to stock pot and soup ingredients.
4. Add in heavy cream and cook until heated through.
Lobster bisque being ladled out of stockpot.

How to Make a Roux for Bisque:

If you prefer a thicker bisque, you can make a roux to thicken it.

  1. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat, and add 1 tablespoon of flour.
  2. Whisk the roux mixture until a thick paste forms, about 3-5 minutes, or until the flour loses its raw smell. At this point, I will also add a ladle of the bisque to the roux and mix, just to help blend the roux in even better.
  3. Add the roux to the bisque, and continue stirring and simmer the bisque over medium-low heat until the bisque thickens to desired consistency.
  4. If soup does not reach the desired consistency, after about 10 minutes, repeat steps 8-10 until bisque is to your desired thickness.

NOTE: My husband prefers a very thick bisque so I make a roux out of 8 tablespoons of butter and 8 tablespoons of flour.

Variations

There are a few different ways you can switch up this classic lobster bisque recipe!

  • Some people like to use tomato paste instead of petite diced tomatoes. Tomato paste will give your soup a thicker texture since there are less tomato juices.
  • Classic lobster bisque from New England uses white wine in its preparation. Feel free to swap some chicken stock for white wine.
  • Adding bay leaves or bay leaf seasoning to this recipe while cooking is another great way to add authentic flavor. Feel free to add more of your favorite herbs.
Easy lobster bisque recipe made with imitation lobster.

Can you Freeze Lobster Bisque?

Yes! You can freeze lobster bisque for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing in an airtight container after your bisque has cooled completely. The cream might settle when you freeze but you’ll simply have to stir before serving.

Expert Tips

What is a substitute for lobster in lobster bisque?

You can substitute crab (like in my crab bisque), shrimp, or even crawfish tail meat.

How do you thicken bisque?

If you’re someone who likes their soup then I recommend adding 2 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoon of butter. It won’t change the flavor but it will make your soup thicker!

Is bisque hot or cold?

Most lobster bisques and other recipes are served hot but they can also be served cold if that’s what you prefer. When serving cold, it’s important to make sure your soup is stirred all the way to prevent separation.

What to Serve With Lobster Bisque

The best lobster bisque recipe is served with warm bread, rolls or garlic biscuits, or breadsticks for the ultimate comfort meal. For a bigger meal, feel free to serve with a grilled cheese or even a caprese sandwich!

More Seafood Recipes

If you love seafood as much as we do, you’ll also love this Seafood Paella!

Recipe

Lobster bisque in small bowl with crackers on a plate underneath.
Print Pin
4.12 from 18 votes

Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe

Not only is this lobster bisque recipe so easy to make but it’s so delicious! Pair with warm bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 241kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon minced garlic finely minced
  • 2 14.5-ounce cans petite diced tomatoes with juices
  • 32 ounces chicken broth
  • 2-4 Tablespoons Old Bay seasoning or your desired spice level. Old Bay can get spicy. *See notes below.
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 2 cups imitation lobster chopped in to small pieces
  • 1 pint heavy cream
  • salt optional – add at the end if you feel it needs more salt since Old Bay contains salt.

Roux (optional – if you like a thicker bisque)

  • 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tablespoons butter room temperature

Instructions

  • Add garlic, tomatoes, chicken broth, Old Bay seasoning, parsley and pepper to a large stock pot. Using an immersion blender, blend until the desired chunkiness. Or, if using a blender, pour the soup in to the blender. You may need to do two batches if it won't all fit which is why it's best to mix it before hand in the stock pot.
  • Add soup back to pot, and cook over medium heat.
  • Add your chopped imitation lobster.
  • Simmer on medium-low heat for about 45 minutes to really let the ingredients cook through one another.
  • Just before serving, add the heavy cream and cook until heated through. ** If you prefer a thinner bisque, you can stop at step 7.  If you prefer a thicker bisque, continue with step 8 (bisque pictured).
  • In a small saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat, and add the flour.
  • Whisk the roux mixture until a thick paste forms, about 3-5 minutes, or until the flour loses it’s raw smell.
  • Add the roux to the bisque, and continue stirring and simmer bisque over medium-low heat until bisque thickens to desired consistency.
  • If soup does not reach desired consistency, after about 10 minutes, repeat steps 8-10 until bisque is to your desired thickness.
    * See notes below about thickness.

Video

Notes

* Seasoning: I prefer using 4 tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning. However, it’s best to start with 2, and then add more just before serving if you feel it could use more. 
* Thickness/Roux: As a gauge for consistency, my husband prefers a very thick bisque, requiring 8 tablespoons of butter and 8 tablespoons of flour. (Not pictured.)

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl (⅛ recipe) | Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 88mg | Sodium: 50mg | Potassium: 61mg | Vitamin A: 1140IU | Vitamin C: 3.1mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 0.6mg

7 Easy Steps on How to Get Beach Waves

How to Get Beach Waves: A quick 7 easy steps on how I get beach waves with a curling wand, and the hair products that I use!

I couldn’t be more than excited to share with you, How I get beach waves in my hair! I’ve had so many people ask recently if I’d do a tutorial, and since I’m FAR from a hair stylist, I was like, “Whaaaat!? But I don’t know what I’m doing!” But then I realized you may want to see someone do their hair, that’s not a professional, so you can relate! 🙂

How To Style Beach Waves Picture and Video Tutorial fantabulosity.com

How to Get Beach Waves

I’ve provided photos of the step by step instructions of how to do beach waves, but I’ve also included a video tutorial at the bottom of this post, in case you’re a “watch and learn,” kinda person. 🙂

Step 1:

Grab a top layer of hair, and clip it up at the top. You’ll begin curling with the bottom layer.

Clip Hair Up - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

Step 2:

Spray the entire bottom layer with a heat thermal spray. I use “Chi Iron Guard.” After trying a lot of brands, even being guilty of trying to get by with the generic Sally Beauty brands… Chi Iron Guard is faaar better, in my opinion.

Heat Thermal Spray for beach waves fantabulosity.com

Step 3:

I start by grabbing a one inch section, and brushing through that section, just to remove any tangles or frizz, so I’ll get a “cleaner,” curl.

Grab your pre-heated curling wand. I recommend the Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand. It’s so easy to use, and even comes with a glove if you want to use it! 🙂

This is the BEST wand to get beach waves

Buy the Curling Wand HERE!

*Note: You will take a different approach when working with the strands that are around the face. So when we move on to the next strand, I’m going to give you a different technique. 

Starting with the first strand that’s by your face:

   About half way up (Not all the way at the top, next to your head) you’ll place your curling wand on top of the hair at an angle, and start wrapping the hair around the wand, in an “outter,” motion. (You will be switching back and forth between each 1-inch section.)
When you’re wrapping the hair, don’t overlap the hair. Each time you wrap the hair, make sure it directly touches the wand…not rest on top of the previous wrapped-around hair.

Wrap hair around wand - how do get beach waves fantabulosity.com

Step 4:

After about 10 seconds, pull the curling wand straight out of the hair, while cupping your other hand underneath the curled hair, holding it for about 5 seconds, allowing the freshly curled hair to cool while it’s still in the “roll.” Gently remove your hand, and let your hair go.

Cup the curl - how to do beach waves fantabulosity.com

Yeah! Just like that! See that first curl!?

How to do beach waves tutorial fantabulosity.com

Step 5:

Ok! Very good! Now let’s move on to the next 1-inch strand of hair, and you’ll do it a bit different this time.

Starting at the TOP of the hair (right by the head), place your curling wand UNDER the strand, and wrap the hair around, in an “over,” motion. Keep your wand “straight” in a horizontal position, and not diagonal this time.

How to do beach waves in hair fantabulosity.com

Here’s a side view of the way it looks when you’ve wrapped the entire strand around the wand. (I did overlap a bit in this one, and I’ve slapped my hand for that. Ooops.)

Curl bottom layer - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

Now you have two curls! Look at you go!

Curls are forming - how to getbeach waves fantabulosity.com

Step 6:

Ok! Now… on the third time, go back to curling it, and place the wand on top of the hair and wrap it around in an “under,” motion. So what you’re doing is changing back and forth after each hair strand, mixing it up, so you’re not doing ever strand in the same motion.

    • Continue on, going about your business, and finish curling out the entire bottom section of hair.
  • When the bottom layer is complete, unclip the top layer, spray with your CHI Iron Guard, and begin curling the top layer of hair, remembering to ALTERNATE going over/under with each strand.

Wrap underneath every other - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

Step 7:

All curled? Excellente! Now… grab a “polish,” like the CHI Pliable Polish that I use, and put about a marble size dab of it in the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together, mixing between the fingers, just to evenly coat,

and start running your hands/fingers through your hair, breaking up the “tightness,” of the curl, and to give your hair a more “pieced,” look, rather than a curled mass of hair. 🙂

This is where I also kind of “flip,” my hair around from side to side, and add volume with my fingers by “teasing,” the hair at the crown of my head, etc.
(You may laugh, but each day, my hair decides if it wasn’t to favor the “left,” or “right,” side of my face; no matter how I style it! So, I let it determine which side it prefers that day, and run with it.)  🙂

Run Polish Through - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

(Now don’t look closely below, because I’m sure you can see my “grays,” starting to show up in this “30 something,” head.)

Pliable Polish - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

Run Pliable Polish Through - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

There they are! You have successfully created beach waves in your hair!

Now I do use hair spray to lock-in the beach waves on my hair. You obviously don’t HAVE to have hair spray to create beach waves, so I didn’t want to make that a step. But… it does hold the wave longer for me, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE using the Big Sexy Spray and Play, because when I “poof,” up my hair with my fingers, when I’m running the Pliable Polish in, I like to “freeze,” that volume that I’ve created.

Hair Spray Beach Waves - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

You like that “hair spray,” action shot? Yeah, my helper Brandy was good like that. You should have seen the excitement on her face when she realized she caught that “moment,” in her photo taking process.)  😉

Spray those beach waves - how to get beach waves fantabulosity.com

Are you more of a “watch and learn,” kinda person?

Well then I’ve created this video tutorial just for you!

How to Get Beach Waves Video Tutorial


I soooo hope that this was helpful for you, and that you are ready to create beach waves in your hair!

TIDBIT: You may have to reference this a couple of times, before you get the “hang,” of it. So “Pin,” this image below, so you can always reference it!

Photo & Video Tutorial on

Thank you for coming by!

Jessica Burgess of Fantabulosity

How to Remove Chalk Marker & Clean a Chalkboard

How to remove chalk marker off of a chalkboard: After trying SO many different things, this is what finally worked! (It only takes two things!)

I’ve been doing some testing over the last few months trying to find out how to clean my chalkboard. As you know, I love to decorate my chalkboard for each holiday or season that is approaching.

How to clean a chalkboard: my Christmas chalkboard art

How to Remove Chalk Marker

With this, has come a “pain in the rear,” process, of trying to figure out how to remove chalk marker from a chalkboard.

I don’t get it. I have 2 or 3 other chalkboards, and the chalk marker simply wipes off, with a wet rag.

But with the chalkboard in my entry, from Restoration Hardware??? Forget it. I thought I was going to have to send it back, and get a plan B in place for my entry wall, because I was struggling with getting the “ghost,” shadow of a chalk marker off of the board.

That was until I FINALLY came up with a technique that works for me, and NOW so many others!

Check out the comments at the bottom of this post for success stories! Yay!

You don’t want to miss how to make your own DIY Chalkboard frame too!

How To Remove Chalk Marker from a Chalkboard https://fantabulosity.com

How to Clean Your Chalkboard

I am, in by NO means, saying that this will work for you. I am not responsible for anything that happens to your chalkboard.

Actually, I recommend reading the instructions on how to clean your chalkboard that came with it, before you even touch it with a chalk pen or marker. Some say you have to “treat,” them before applying anything.

I, however… did not read my instructions, and I feel that’s where I messed up. If I had treated it, I may not have the problem of the markers leaving a ghost shadow.

How to Remove Chalk Marker from a Chalkboard

After trying soap and water, Clorox wipes, all-purpose cleaner, vinegar, a magic eraser…and let the list go on… I couldn’t find anything that would work.

Finally, I was so fed up, that I just started experimenting.

I decided I didn’t care if it messed up my chalkboard, I was going to try anything to get that chalk dust shadow off of my board, no matter what it did to it.

Which led me to this:

How to Remove Chalk Marker from Chalkboard https://fantabulosity.com

Magic Eraser + Vinegar

That folks, is a magic eraser, AND some vinegar. I combined the two for some serious chalk marker removin’ solution.

Yes… this is me scrubbing away below. Now… this is important. I DO have to put a little muscle behind the scrubbing. It doesn’t just pleasantly wipe off.

So your arms may get a workout, but honestly, I think that’s just a bonus. No need to do my arm workout that day.

(Who am I kidding? I don’t work out)

How to Remove Chalk Marker https://fantabulosity.com

So I just use the magic eraser and rub up and down, and in a circle, in a small area first. When that chalk spot is gone, I move on to the next area!

Another Helpful Tip for Cleaning Your Chalkboard:

Keep a dry rag or towel, nearby, so you can wipe off the “wetness,” after every few scrubs, so you can lower the risk of just letting chalk-smear dry.

(Also, I tend to have some “black,” come off on my magic eraser when I do this. I’m wondering if that’s a normal thing, or if that was part of that, “I should have pre-treated this thing first,” deal.)

My little guy is so helpful below. I’m sure you other moms can appreciate not being able to do anything alone. 🙂

A Mommy is Never Alone https://fantabulosity.com

Did this Clean Your Chalkboard?

So there you have it! I really hope this helps ease your frustration with trying to get chalk marker off of your chalkboard. Talk about making a DIY gal go CRAZY!

Join all of the others and let me know below… did this work for you? I’d love to know! Make sure to check out more of my favorite cleaning tips and tricks!

Love Easy Recipes and Decorating Your Home?

Remember, if this is your first time here, hang around and check out some of our favorite simple and easy recipes, home decor posts, and SO much more!

Want to see the rest of our home?

Or if you LOVE browsing homes in your downtime, you can take a tour of our home, (inside and out) starting with part 1 of our home tour.!

How to erase chalk marker off of chalk board

“Pin” this image, so you can always come back to it if you run into the same problem I did!

How To Remove Chalk Marker off of a chalkboard! Those shadows drive me nuts! https://fantabulosity.com

Honey Sriracha Chex™ Mix

Do we have any Sriracha lovers out there? Oh I know we do…

The fact that there are such things as Sriracha keychains… then I’d say odds are, we have some that must hang around here.

The other day, General Mills surprised me with a huge bagful of goodies. At first, I thought it was just a bag full of their newest items. I was wrong. It was WAY more than that!

It was stuffed full of all of the ingredients & a recipe card that I would need to make:

Honey Sriracha Chex™ Mix

Honey Sriracha Chex Mix recipe https://fantabulosity.com

Honey Sriracha Chex Mix recipe https://fantabulosity.com

 I mean, check out this massive gift they sent me. I {heart} them. I couldn’t WAIT to make it. Then of course if it was good, I couldn’t wait to share it with you. Needless to say… I’m here, and I’m sharin’ it. It’s GOOD.

It was extremely easy to throw together, and I didn’t even have to heat up the stove!

Here, I laid the heated chex mix out to cool, on wax paper before adding in the popcorn.

Honey Sriracha Chex Mix recipe https://fantabulosity.com
Honey Sriracha Chex Mix recipe https://fantabulosity.com

Once it cools, add in the popcorn and the deliciousness commences.
The recipe card says to store it in an air tight container so it will stay fresh!

I stored mine in one of my glass canisters, hoping it stays fresh in that… because… we… it’s pretty.

Honey Sriracha Chex Mix recipe https://fantabulosity.com

I did also add a little salt to the mix after it was all finished and mixed together. But that’s just because I really, really, really like salt. 🙂  

Recipe

Honey sriracha chex mix.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Honey-Sriracha Chex™ Mix

This Chex mix recipe is super easy to make and is the perfect salty treat. Chex, popcorn, nuts, and peanuts are coated in a spicy Sriracha sauce.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings 20 servings (yields about 10 cups)
Calories 215kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 3 cups corn Chex™ cereal
  • 3 cups rice Chex™ cereal
  • 1 cup roasted, salted peanuts
  • 1 cup waffle pretzels
  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 3 Tablespoons Sriracha
  • 2 Tablespoons honey
  • 3 cups popped popcorn

Instructions

  • In a large microwavable blow, mix cereals, peanuts, and pretzels. Set aside.  
  • In a small microwavable bowl, microwave butter uncovered on high about 20 seconds or until melted.
  • Stir in Sriracha sauce and honey. Pour over cereal mixture; stir until evenly coated.
  • Microwave uncovered on high 5-6 minutes, thoroughly stirring every 2 minutes. 
  • Spread on waxed paper to cool, about 15 minutes. Place in serving blow; stir in popcorn. Store in airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (½ cup) | Calories: 215kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 233mg | Potassium: 175mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 285IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 5.3mg

So for all of my snacking friends, add this to your Pinterest boards so when you’re given the task to bring something to that next party… this should be it!

Until next time,

XO

Chocolate Covered Teddy Bear Graham Crackers

If you are looking for a quick, easy recipe to make a snack the kids (and adults) will love – look no further. This recipe for Chocolate Covered Teddy Bear Graham Crackers is delish and a fun treat for everyone. They would make the perfect side dish for a kid’s birthday party or a playdate with friends.

Now THESE are cute! Perfect for a birthday party or after school snack! https://fantabulosity.com

Recently I made S’mores Teddy Bears and I had a few left over Teddy Grahams. I couldn’t stop thinking – what ELSE could I make with these? Teddy Grahams are just too cute, and I love having them as a snack with my preschool aged daughter. I decided to try dipping them in white chocolate, on the spur of the moment.

I melted some white chocolate chips that I had in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. (I always try to have the ingredients for basic chocolate chip cookies on hand. You never know when you’re going to want to make cookies!) I also had some sprinkles (small round sprinkles) in the pantry and I poured some out onto a small plate.

I laid out a baking sheet lined with parchment paper so I would have a place to set the finished teddy grahams. Then I got to work.

Now THESE are cute! Chocolate Covered Teddy Bear Graham Crackers! Perfect for a birthday party or after school snack! https://fantabulosity.com

I started with  a teddy graham and dipped his face in the white chocolate. It was easier to just dip the front of the teddy halfway down. It doesn’t have to be exact by any means! This is an easy recipe, but it can get a bit tedious. It does go by quickly though.

Then I dipped the chocolate teddy graham lightly onto the sprinkles. It did leave behind some chocolate but not much. Then I set the finished teddy graham onto the parchment lined baking sheet.

One by one, I dipped the teddy grahams until they were all gone. Then I let them harden in the fridge for an hour or two. They turned out so cute, and more delicious than I expected! The white chocolate and the honey graham cracker really complemented each other well.

Be sure to make plenty of teddy grahams for your party – they won’t last long!

Recipe

Now THESE are cute! Chocolate Covered Teddy Bear Graham Crackers! Perfect for a birthday party or after school snack! https://fantabulosity.com
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

Chocolate Covered Teddy Bear Graham Crackers

If you are looking for a quick, easy recipe to make a snack the kids (and adults) will love – look no further. This recipe for Chocolate Covered Teddy Bear Graham Crackers is delish and a fun treat for everyone.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 95kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 10-ounce box Teddy Grahams
  • 1 bag white chocolate chips
  • sprinkles

Instructions

  • Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave for about 30 seconds-1 minute
  • Pour the sprinkles onto a small plate.
  • One by one, dip the teddy grahams face side down into the melted chocolate.
  • Dip the chocolate covered teddy graham in the sprinkles.
  • Allow to fully harden in the fridge about 1-2 hours

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (¼ cup) | Calories: 95kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 148mg | Potassium: 39mg | Sugar: 5g | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 0.9mg

Easy Peach Cobbler with Canned Peaches

Easy peach cobbler with canned peaches is one of the best last-minute desserts when you want something warm, simple, and crowd-pleasing. It uses pantry staples and canned peaches, so you can make it any time of year without waiting on fresh fruit.

Peach cobbler with canned peaches

A No-Fuss Peach Cobbler That's Easy to Make Anytime

This is the kind of dessert that works when you need something dependable and easy, but still want it to feel homemade. Canned peaches make it especially convenient because they're already soft, sweet, and ready to use, which means you can get that classic peach cobbler texture without a lot of prep.

It's a great recipe for family dinners, potlucks, holidays, or those evenings when you just want an old-fashioned dessert without extra work.

You may also love the peach cobbler recipe that uses Bisquick, or you can make this peach cobbler with cake mix if you have that on hand!

Then, if you’re in the peach recipe mood, make sure you try this easy peach mango pie recipe!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you drain canned peaches for peach cobbler?

Yes, for this recipe, it's best to drain the peaches before adding them. Too much extra liquid can affect how the batter bakes and can make the cobbler too wet.

Can I use canned peaches in syrup or juice?

Yes. Either can work, but you'll still want to drain them well before using. If the peaches are packed in heavy syrup, the cobbler may taste a little sweeter.

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned for peach cobbler?

You can, but canned peaches make this recipe faster and more consistent. Since canned peaches are already soft and sweet, they work really well for an easy cobbler recipe like this one.

How do you store leftover peach cobbler with canned peaches?

If you have leftover cobbler, you can store it in an airtight container or simply cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store on the counter, at room temperature, for the day. However, if it’s more than a day, store it in the refrigerator.

Is a cobbler the same thing as a crisp or crumble?

No. A cobbler has a “biscuit-like” or “pastry-like” topping, where a crisp has an oat or streusel-type topping that has a “crunch”.

Why did my peach cobbler turn out gummy?

This usually happens when there is too much liquid, the peaches were not drained well, or the cobbler was underbaked. Bake until the top is golden and the batter is fully set.

Do you stir peach cobbler before baking?

No. Once the batter is poured over the melted butter and the peaches are added on top, do not stir. That layered method is what helps create the cobbler texture as it bakes.

Why You’ll Love This Peach Cobbler with Canned Peaches Recipe

  • It uses canned peaches, so you can make it any time of year.
  • It comes together with simple pantry ingredients.
  • You don't need pie crust or complicated steps.
  • It has that cozy, old-fashioned cobbler feel with very little effort.
  • It's easy enough for weeknights but good enough for holidays and potlucks.

Why Canned Peaches Work So Well for Cobbler

Canned peaches are one of the easiest ways to make peach cobbler because they save time and give you a reliable texture. They're already peeled, sliced, and soft, so they bake up beautifully without the guesswork that can come with fresh peaches. They also make this recipe practical in any season, which is one reason this version is so handy when you need a quick dessert.

Ingredients for Easy Peach Cobbler

See the recipe card below that has the printable, full ingredient list and instructions.

Ingredients for peach cobbler on table.
  • Butter - This melts in the baking dish and helps create the rich, golden cobbler base.
  • All-purpose flour - Gives the batter structure and helps create that classic cobbler texture.
  • Sugar - Sweetens the batter and pairs well with the peaches.
  • Milk - Helps create a smooth batter and gives the cobbler a soft, tender texture.
  • Baking powder - Helps the batter rise as it bakes.
  • Salt - Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.
  • Canned peaches - The shortcut ingredient that makes this recipe easy, quick, and consistent.

TIP: Do you have other fruit on hand besides peaches? Feel free to substitute the peaches for your favorite fresh fruit since we drain the juices anyway! See the fruit substitution ideas below!

  • blackberries
  • blueberries
  • strawberries
  • canned pears
  • cherries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt butter in 8x8 baking dish
  1. Melt your stick of butter right in the baking dish you plan to make your cobbler in. (An 8×8 or 9×9 glass baking dish is ideal for this – or double the batch and make it in a 9 x 13 baking or casserole dish.)
Peach cobbler batter mixed together in a bowl
  1. In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the flour, sugar, milk, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Mix together until evenly combined.
Pour cobbler batter on top of butter in baking dish
  1. Pour flour mixture batter on top of melted butter. (DO NOT MIX!)
Place canned peaches (without juice) on top
  1. Place canned peaches (drained) on top of batter and butter. (DO NOT MIX!)
Baked peach cobbler dump cake
  1. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees F. for 35-40 minutes, and when the top is golden brown.
Single serving of peach cobbler on plate
  1. Remove from oven and serve warm.

Tips

  • Make sure to drain the peaches well so the cobbler does not bake up too wet.
  • Do not stir the layers after adding the batter and peaches.
  • Bake until the top is golden and the center looks set.
  • Serve warm for the best texture.
  • Vanilla ice cream makes an easy topping if you want to dress it up a little.

What to Serve with Peach Cobbler

This peach cobbler is delicious by itself but if you’d like to serve a little something extra with it, you should consider:

  • vanilla ice cream
  • caramel or butterscotch drizzle
  • sugared strawberries
  • sprinkle of cinnamon
  • vanilla sauce we use in bread pudding
  • sprinkle of brown sugar
  • whipped cream

Storage Instructions:

Room Temperature: You can store peach cobbler at room temperature, covered, for 1-2 days.

Refrigerate: To make peach cobbler last longer, it’s best to refrigerate in an airtight container, or covered, for up to 5 days.

Freeze: You can even freeze peach cobbler in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

More Easy Dessert Recipes:

As a beginner cook or someone who loves adding simplicity to your life, it’s always a great idea to have ingredients for a quick and easy dessert on hand for those last-minute needs!

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 easy peach cobbler with canned peaches is a simple old-fashioned dessert made with pantry staples and baked until golden and cozy. It's a great last-minute recipe when you want something warm, sweet, and easy to share.

Recipe

slice of peach cobbler on white plate
Print Pin
4.91 from 253 votes

Peach Cobbler with Canned Peaches

This amazing peach cobbler recipe with canned peaches requires only 7 simple ingredients and is ready in minutes!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 308kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (stick butter)
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups peaches without juice

Instructions

  • Prep: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Melt butter: In a microwave safe, 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish, melt the stick of butter in the microwave.
  • Mix batter: In a separate bowl, mix together flour, sugar, milk, baking powder & salt.
  • Pour in to dish: Pour batter on top of the melted butter in the baking pan. (Do not mix.)
  • Add peaches: Pour peaches (make sure it is drained!) on top of batter mixture. (Do not mix.)
  • Bake cobbler: Bake for 35-40 minutes, until top is almost a golden brown.

Video

Notes

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned peaches?
You can. The great thing about canned though is that the peaches may be a little softer compared to fresh peaches that may not be very ripe and the sugary syrup that the peaches are in, in the can, tend to be sweeter. But it’s definitely an option to make this using fresh.
How do you store leftover cobbler?
If you have leftover cobbler, you can store it in an airtight container or simply cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store on the counter for the day. However, if it’s more than a day, store it in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 308kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 164mg | Potassium: 210mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 580IU | Vitamin C: 1.3mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 1mg

French Toast Casserole

French Toast Casserole – This breakfast dish using French bread, heavy cream, brown sugar, and a blend of spices, smells, and tastes amazing in the morning! Perfect for a Mother’s Day brunch, Christmas morning, or a weekend breakfast.

Slice of french toast casserole on white plate with syrup and berries.

It’s also an easy breakfast casserole that you will make the night before and simply bake the next morning for a delicious recipe that the entire family will love, maybe even as much as the Brioche French Toast and Cinnamon Roll Casserole that’s REALLY popular!

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Why You’ll Love this Recipe

My favorite thing about making this French Toast Bake is that I can make it the night before, and practically throw the thing in the oven when I wake up. An hour later, it looks like I’ve been up since dawn, working my fingers to the bone, in the kitchen. Plus, it reminds me of my favorite bread pudding recipes so the fact that I can eat it for breakfast is like a little piece of heaven on earth.

It’s also an easy way to have a warm and comforting dish for a weekend morning for special occasions or just as a family tradition, and serve alongside this ham and cheese croissant casserole if feeding a large crowd.

How do you Keep French Toast Bake From Getting Soggy?

I’ve never had this recipe turn out soggy but if you do, make sure you’re using the right kind of bread. The best bread, is a crispy bread or bread such as:

  • French bread
  • Challah bread
  • Brioche
  • Italian bread
  • Stale, thick bread

This stale bread helps crisp up the casserole, especially since it sits all night.

Are French Toast Casserole and French Toast Bake the Same?

Yes! Although it may be called one or the other, the recipe typically uses the same ingredients and has the same cooking process so it’s essentially the same type of recipe.

Recipe Ingredients:

This recipe uses simple ingredients, and you may even have most, if not all, of them on hand already!

Labeled ingredients for french toast casserole.

How to Make this French Toast Casserole

Although you can find the full printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for this delicious French toast bake, I also like to share tips along the way to help you make the best overnight French toast bake!

PRO TIP: To allow enough time for the bread to soak up the batter, it’s ideal to make this dish the day or the night before you plan to serve it. However, it’s not a “must” but it would still be good to allow it to soak for a few hours if possible.

Grease a 9×13 casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Steps 1-4 of French toast bake process.

Mix Together the Batter & Bread:

  1. Tear or cut the French bread into chunks/cubes, ( about 1-inch cubes) and place on the bottom of the baking dish, in a single layer and spread out the bread, the best that you can.
  2. In a separate mixing bowl, add whisk eggs, milk, cream white sugar, brown sugar & vanilla.
  3. Stir to mix the mixture evenly.
  4. Pour egg mixture over the top of the bread pieces, trying to coat/cover all of the bread. Cover the bread with a lid, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Preferably overnight.
Steps 5-8 of how to make French toast bake.

How to Make the Crumble Topping:

  1. In a medium bowl, pour the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg in a separate bowl.
  2. Mix together until evenly combined.
  3. Add the pieces of butter, and mix together with either a pastry cutter or a fork (supplementing your hands, combining the ingredients, until the texture is fine pebbles) to create the crumbly topping. Store the topping in the fridge, separate from the bread mixture, until right before baking.

How to Bake the French Toast Casserole:

Preheat over to 350 degrees F.

  1. Sprinkle the crumbly topping over the French toast mixture and bake uncovered for 1 hour or until golden brown on top.
Baked french toast casserole in white baking dish.

How to Serve the French Toast Casserole

This breakfast casserole is best, served with syrup, fresh berries, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings!

Slice of French toast casserole on spatula.

What to do with Leftover French Toast Casserole

If you happen to have leftover French toast bake, you can store it in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

Syrup pouring over French toast casserole in white plate with blueberries.

Recipe FAQs

Can French toast casserole be frozen?

Yes! In a freezer-safe container, bake as instructed and then allow it to cool to room temperature.
Or, prepare up until adding the crumbly topping. (You will add this right before baking.)
How to Freeze: Wrap and/or cover the casserole, preferably in cling plastic wrap — as we’ve found this works best for freezing food — and freeze up to three months.
To Reheat: allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. When thawed, if fully baked, bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated through. If unbaked, thaw, top with crumbly topping, and bake as instructed in the recipe card.

Piece of French toast casserole on fork.

You’re also going to love this sheet pan pancakes recipe and our favorite pancakes from scratch, which are so comforting and easy to make! You’ll also love this brioche french toast, cinnamon french toast sticks, and this easy french toast recipe!

Recipe

Slice of French toast casserole on white plate with blueberries and strawberries.
Print Pin
4.80 from 10 votes

French Toast Casserole

A baked french toast casserole recipe that you can spend 15 minutes preparing, let sit overnight and then bake it in the morning. A delicious breakfast dish to serve out of town guests, or a hungry family!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 6 hours
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 399kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf French bread
  • butter or non-stick spray for coating casserole dish
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons pure vanilla extract

Topping:

  • ½ cup flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 pinch nutmeg
  • 1 stick butter cold; cut into pieces

Instructions

  • Grease a 9×13 casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  • Tear or cut the French bread into chunks/cubes, and place on the bottom of the baking dish, spread out the best that you can.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, milk, cream white sugar, brown sugar & vanilla.
  • Pour egg mixture over the top of the bread pieces, trying to coat/cover all of the bread.
  • Cover the bread with a lid, aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Preferably overnight.

Topping:

  • In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg in a separate bowl.
  • Add the pieces of butter, and mix together with either a pastry cutter or a fork (supplementing your hands, combining the ingredients, until the texture is fine pebbles) to create the crumbly topping.
  • Store topping in the fridge, separate from the bread mixture, until right before baking.

Bake the French Toast:

  • Preheat over to 350 degrees F.
  • Sprinkle crumbly topping over the french toast mixture.
  • Bake uncovered for 1 hour.
  • Serve with syrup, fresh berries or desired toppings.

Notes

Important to Note: To allow enough time for the bread to soak up the batter, it’s ideal to make this dish the day or the night before you plan to serve it. 
Freezing Instructions: In a freezer-safe container, bake as instructed and then allow it to cool to room temperature.
Or, prepare up until adding the crumbly topping. (You will add this right before baking.)
How to Freeze: Wrap and/or cover the casserole, preferably in cling plastic wrap — as we’ve found this works best for freezing food — and freeze up to three months.
To Reheat: allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. When thawed, if fully baked, bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated through. If unbaked, thaw, top with crumbly topping, and bake as instructed in the recipe card.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (⅙ recipe) | Calories: 399kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 162mg | Sodium: 361mg | Potassium: 186mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 628IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 2mg

* Recipe originally published in 2015. Updated in June 2021 and April 2023.

DIY Housewarming Gift Idea + Drink Dispenser

DIY Housewarming Gift Idea: Using a drink dispenser, filling it with all kinds of necessities that the new homeowners may need at move in! Plus, they get to use the drink dispenser later!

I love it when I have two or more people celebrating the same thing. Birthday’s, Accomplishments, Graduations, Moving in to a new home, or simply just give me reasons to thank them. Why? Because when I’m getting creative, I like to do it on a mass level.

Why not spread the love to more than just one person?

spread the love...

It makes it easier to shop for multiples than just one, because more than likely, when I’m creating a DIY project, all of the fixin’s come in multiples.

This week, I had TWO friends moving in to new homes! My DIY Housewarming Gift was born…

DIY House Warming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

DIY Housewarming Gift Idea:

I haven’t met a gal yet who doesn’t love a good ole drink dispenser.

They either want it, to store their tea in, or they want it for the parties they’re throwing at home.

I knew a drink dispenser was TOTALLY going to be the base of my DIY Housewarming Gift.

All of the goodies inside, were just the added cherry on top, while shopping.

DIY Housewarming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

I knew I wanted the contents of the gift to be things my friends would need when moving in to a new home. You know, those things you don’t think about, until you need them? There’s nothing more frustrating than gettin’ in a groove, unpacking, hanging things up, when you realize you’re out of something, and you have to stop what you’re doing, and run to the hardware store.

Well, if you’re anything like me, by the time you run to the store, and get back home…

Forgettaboutit. I’m pooped.

Maybe that’s just me.

I love coming to my friends rescue. I told you that when I showed you my DIY Sick Kit for friends. There’s just something about helping others, that makes it easier to rest my head at night, right?!

Sick Kit - Get Well Gift for Kids & Mom https://fantabulosity.com

By far, my favorite thing about this DIY housewarming gift idea, was that the drink dispenser did all of the decorating for me. It’s pretty enough, that I simply just tied a ribbon around it. BAM!

If you love giving housewarming gift ideas, making sure to see this pretty housewarming gift basket too!

DIY Drink Dispenser Contents:

• Drink Dispenser (shocker, I know)

• Hand towel (white is always safe. Tie a ribbon around it, to keep it small in the jar.)

• Surge Bar

• Furniture Pads {so they don’t scratch the floor}

• Gorilla Glue

• Furniture Dusting Wipes

• Batteries

• Furniture Touch-Up Crayons

• Monkey Hooks (Next to Command Strips, these are my favorite things to hang items with.)

• A book for the kiddos to read, while mom and dad unpack.

DIY House Warming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

I just lucked out at the time the movie, “Home,” was popular! 😉

DIY Housewarming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

I just stuffed the drink dispenser full of the goodies, and tied a cute little ribbon around it with my homemade label. You’ll be tickled to see how easy the label was to make below:

DIY Housewarming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

I just grabbed 3 paint swatches from the store.

DIY Housewarming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

I used one for the background, cut a corner off of another for the roof, and cut a square out of the last one for the walls of the house. I used glue dots to adhere the house to the background paint sample, and wall-lah. I had a “heart,” sticker from a previous project left over, and I attached that too, to had a little, “umph.”

Then wrote a little message to the new neighbors.

DIY Housewarming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

I used a hole punch to make two holes in each corner, and tied the ribbon through, and around the drink dispenser… and called it a day.

DIY Housewarming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

 We went around the following weekend, delivering the housewarming gifts, and my kids had a blast! Making it a family event made it all worth it too.

 

Hangover Kit Gift Ideas

I call this my hangover kit idea because even though some of the snacks and goodies can be enjoyed during the party day, these will come in so handy the morning after too!

It’s rare when a large group of us can get together for a girls night out. Make it a “couples night out,” and it gets even rarer.

We are known for having an abundant supply of wineries at our fingertips. So when we all get together, we know a winery tour, MUST be on the agenda.

Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

What to Put in a Hangover Kit

The minute I knew all of us were getting together for a winery tour, I started getting the “itch,” to do something creative for them. All of these people are so special to me, so I wanted to show them a little love by giving them a small little, “Got ya covered,” items, in their winery day favors.

Winery Tour Survival Kit! Love how this has all kinds of stuff in it that they'll need for their day, night and morning after! Lol! https://fantabulosity.com


You can get the cutest kraft favor boxes on Amazon.

You see, we are all fairly new moms and dads, and I had a feeling we were going to be “go hard,” and make the best of it.

 So each couple received a Hangover Kit!

If you’ve never been on a wine tour, you may not know that the wine “tastings,” can get a little fuzzy after the first stop. 🙂  So I knew that I wanted to fill the boxes with small snack foods, that would pair well with wine & would be a great service after the wine tour. 😉

Winery Tour Survival Kit! Love how this has all kinds of stuff in it that they'll need for their day, night and morning after! Lol! https://fantabulosity.com

• Chocolates, beef sticks, & cheese crackers.

• Water to rehydrate (that wine can really make you thirsty!)

• Mini Muffins & granola bars for breakfast the morning after.

• A small container of pain relief meds for that pounding headache the next morning.

• and a special little somethin’ somethin’ for the couples who may not be ready to add a new addition to their family any time soon, that’s hidden in that little white bag. 😉

Winery Tour Survival Kit! Love how this has all kinds of stuff in it that they'll need for their day, night and morning after! Lol! https://fantabulosity.com

So what’s in that little white bag you ask?

Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

 I think my friends were a bit shocked when they opened the bag. (But I’m sure the husbands were secretly grateful.) 😉

I bought the super cute little white bags from Shop Sweet Lulu too.

Winery Snacks

Remember my White Chocolate Lemon Puppy Chow?  I made a big batch of this for the whole group to snack on, while we transitioned from winery to winery. I already had these boxes in my (ahem) craft closet, or… craft throw-up closet.

Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

Transportation Ideas for Wine Tour and Party Bus

How did we transport to each winery? This is possibly my fave-o-rite part…

Our friends offered up their RV, so we could hire a designated driver, and all transported together! THIS… my friends… is the way to do it.

https://fantabulosity.com/white-chocolate-lemon-puppy-chow/

Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

 One of my cuter, than cute… friends, opening up her party favor for the day.

We are also super lucky, that most of the wineries around here, also brew their own beer. So the people who aren’t the biggest wine fans, and prefer the brew… can kick back, and have a drink too.

Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

I even got to hang out with THIS guy (my hubby) all day, and that wasn’t too shabby.

Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

“Let’s Party,” “Party On,” & “Cheers”
Wine Tour Snacks & Favors! Little boxes full of items for snacking, dehydration, hangovers, breakfast & just for fun! This is GREAT idea for bachelorette party favors too! https://fantabulosity.com

If you’re going on a wine tour soon, and looking for party favors, I totally recommend this Hangover Kit. But don’t forget to make yourself one… you’ll need it. 😉

The BEST French Toast Recipe

The French toast recipe is so easy, tastes like your favorite restaurant version and is made using simple ingredients. There are a few secrets to the best French toast… adding flour to the batter, and the right ratio of sugars.

Slices of French toast on a platter, covered in syrup and powdered sugar.

French toast is delicious all year, but what is it about having yummy French toast on a snow day? There’s something so comforting about it, and you might as well make the best recipe there is when the craving hits.

If hosting, cooking a lot of individual slices can take a while, so I recommend making a French Toast Casserole instead. Or if you’re looking to impress guests, this Stuffed French Toast recipe is very impressive.

French Toast Recipe Highlights

  • Restaurant Quality – Why is French toast so good at the diner? It’s possibly because they add a little secret ingredient to the batter like I do. This recipe will wow your family, and will surely become a new favorite.
  • Texture and Flavor – With the addition of sugars and vanilla, this sweet French toast isn’t too sweet but it has just the right amount that gives it a lovely flavor. The texture when using Texas toast makes it fluffy, and every bite has the perfect “bounce” that French toast should have.
  • Simple Ingredients – It’s possible that you already have the ingredients on hand for this easy French toast recipe. If not, they can easily be found at most grocery stores, or I’ve also provided substitution ideas below.

Key Ingredients

Full list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Ingredients for French toast on a table.
  • Bread – I believe the type of bread you use can make a world of difference. Texas toast is recommended for this recipe, although regular sliced bread, brioche for brioche French toast, or even French bread will work as well. It’s fun to experiment and use different types of items like donuts, Hawaiian rolls, and cinnamon-raisin bread too. Older bread (or at least bread that isn’t too fresh) works best as it works better for soaking, and not getting a soggy French toast.
  • Eggs – I use 4 eggs to make 8 slices of Texas toast French toast. The size of your eggs can make a difference, requiring less or more. I usually use medium-sized eggs.
  • Vanilla – Pure vanilla extract is recommended. For years when baking and making recipes, I used imitation vanilla because it was cheaper. However, over the years I’ve learned how much better pure vanilla extract is, and it makes such a difference.
  • Sugars – I prefer using white granulated sugar and light brown sugar. They both give this recipe for French toast a touch of sweetness and the brown sugar gives it that golden color and caramelized flavor. Next time, you may also want to try my Brown Sugar French Toast recipe too.
  • Salt – The salt is the perfect touch of contrast to the sweetness. I prefer using kosher salt but you can use table salt.
  • Heavy Cream – This helps spread the egg and allows the eggs to soak in to the bread. Feel free to use whole milk or half-and-half instead if that’s what you have on hand. I’ve even used flavored coffee creamer for a twist.
  • Flour – The secret ingredient in this recipe! What does flour do to French toast? It helps the egg mixture stick to the bread and can give the outside edges a slight crunch, leaving the middle soft and fluffy.

How to Make Delicious French Toast

Mix dry ingredients together in small bowl.
1. Mix together dry ingredients.
Mix eggs, heavy cream and vanilla together in bowl.
2. Mix wet ingredients in a separate bowl, big enough to dip bread in later.
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix together.
3. Pour dry ingredients in with wet.
Coat bread in egg mixture.
4. Dip bread slices in to batter to saturate both sides.
French toast cooking in cast iron skillet.
5. Add butter to skillet and cook each side.
Cooked French toast pieces stacked on top of one another.
Remove French toast to a platter.

Tips for Great French Toast

  • Saturate – Make sure the egg mixtures soaks in to the bread well before cooking.
  • Cook Temperature – Don’t cook with the heat too high or the outside will burn before the centers are cooked. I prefer to cook French toast on medium-low heat.
  • Cooking in Butter – This is optional, and you can use a non-stick spray or if your skillet is non-stick, you may not need to use butter. However, I love cooking in butter because it adds a browned butter flavor to the toast. TIP: If cooking one slice at a time, the butter melted in the pan can burn if the cooking process takes a while. Either cook larger batches at once, to reduce the amount of time the residual butter cooks in pan, or wipe the excess butter out after a few batches.
  • Cut in to Sticks – These can be cut in to sticks and used for dipping, like with my Cinnamon French Toast Sticks recipe.
Cooked French toast triangles on a platter, sprinkled with powdered sugar.

French Toast Toppings

It can be fun to add different variations to your French toast. Here are some of my favorite ideas, which are similar to my favorite pancake toppings:

  • Syrup (maple, storebought, flavored maple syrup, etc.)
  • Powdered Sugar (you can even make a powdered sugar glaze like I do with my blueberry turnovers and cinnamon biscuits recipe)
  • Fruit (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc.)
  • Drizzle (chocolate syrup, caramel ice cream topping, peanut butter or Biscoff drizzle like I use in these Biscoff cupcakes)
  • Whipped Cream (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
French toast on plate, covered in syrup and powdered sugar, next to blueberries.

What to Serve with French Toast

Classic breakfast side dishes like bacon baked in the oven or baked breakfast sausage always go great with a sweeter breakfast dish.

Storage Instructions

  • Leftovers – Allow leftovers to fully cool and then wrap, or store in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3-4 days.
  • To Freeze – Making French toast in advance to freeze to enjoy later with ease is a great idea. Allow toast to cool and store in a freezer-safe bag, or container and enjoy within 3 months. Freezing Tip: I prefer wrapping toast in food-safe wrap and then in a container to prevent it from becoming freezer-burnt.
  • Reheating – Place frozen toast in a toaster or microwave to thaw and reheat quickly.

Recipe FAQs

What is the ratio of milk to eggs for French toast?

The standard ratio is ¼ cup of liquid to 1 egg. So using 4 eggs, and 1 cup of liquid (heavy cream) gives French bread the perfect balance.

How long should French toast soak?

This will depend on the thickness of the bread but it should take about a minute on each side for the egg batter to soak in to the bread.

Why is my French toast soggy?

It could be because the bread soaked too long in the egg mixture or because the bread used was very fresh. It’s best to use bread that isn’t so soft.

Similar Recipes You’ll Love:

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

French toast halves covered in syrup, sitting on a plate next to blueberries.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

French Toast

This French Toast Recipe is easy to make and is the best because of a secret ingreident, to make it taste like restaurant French toast at home!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 8 full slices
Calories 304kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • Frying pan or griddle

Ingredients

  • 8 slices Texas toast

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 1 Tablespoon white sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt I prefer Kosher salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • butter for cooking if desired

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.
  • In a larger bowl, whisk the eggs and then add the remaining wet ingredients.
  • Next, pour the dry ingredients in to the wet ingredients, and mix together.
  • Place a slice of Texas toast in the egg mixture, flipping, making sure both sides are saturated.
  • In a skillet on the stovetop over low-medium heat (or on a griddle), it's recommended to melt a small amount of butter, and then add the bread to cook. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
    TIP: If you cook too hot, the outside will burn before the middle will cook. It's best to cook low and slow.
  • Remove from skillet, and place on a serving platter while you repeat the final pieces of toast. If desired, slice each piece in half, diagonally, to achieve the look pictured here.
  • Serve with syrup, powdered sugar, fruit, or your favorite toppings if desired.

Video

Notes

    • Saturate – Make sure the bread soaks in to the egg mixture well before cooking.
    • Cook Temperature – Don’t cook too high or the outside will burn before the centers are cooked. I prefer to cook French toast on medium-low heat.
    • Cooking in Butter – This is optional, and you can use a non-stick spray or if your skillet is non-stick, you may not need to use butter. However, I love cooking in butter because it adds a browned butter flavor to the toast.
    • Storage – Allow to cool off and then place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To freeze, allow toast to cool and then place in a freezer-safe container and enjoy for up to 3 months for best results.

Nutrition

Serving: 2slices | Calories: 304kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 286mg | Potassium: 68mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 557IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 7mg

Restaurant Kit: Toddler Busy Bag

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone, promise! #MARVELSnackBar #CollectiveBias

Sometimes I wonder what in the heck we were thinking when we decided to go out to eat with two little boys. Forcing them to sit still for a long period of time, is almost a cruel joke.

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

Since the majority of the time, we decide to eat out at the last minute, I may not have time to round up toys & snacks for a restaurant trip. So the new trick up my sleeve, (thanks to Blue I Style) is my “Restaurant Kit.” My toddler busy bag is always ready to go, whenever we decide to head out the door.

Restaurant Kit

The restaurant kit is FULL of goodies that I think will help keep my children occupied. By only bringing out the kit during… you guess it… restaurant trips, the toys, and goodies are “new,”(since they haven’t played with them already that day) and they can’t wait to see what’s in it.

So what do I use for the bag?

A makeup bag! It has a handle and little compartments. Perfect to store the goodies.

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

What do you Put in a Toddler Busy Kit?

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

• Small Figurines. I don’t know what it is, but my children LOVE playing with small figurines. Probably because it’s easy for their little hands to hold on to.

• Plastic Eggs. The small figurines usually end up going inside the small plastic eggs, and the constant open and shutting of the plastic eggs, REALLY hold their attention span… quietly. Buy plastic eggs HERE!

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

• Triangular Crayons. (Buy them HERE!) Have you ever heard of these? Yes? Oh… I guess I’ve lived in a cave. They’re triangular crayons, so they won’t roll off of the table at the restaurant, and since they’re larger… my youngest child can grip on easier. (Not like those itty bitty crayons the restaurants usually hand out.)

I usually keep a small notebook in the restaurant kit too, because even though some restaurants give my children a coloring sheet, it’s like there’s never really anything to color? It’s all crowded up with menu items, pictures of characters, etc. A blank sheet of paper is a free for all!

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

• Play Dough. (Buy the small containers HERE!)I’ll admit. I’m totally that mom that tries to do everything from having to entertain with play dough. It’s messy, get’s all over my floors at home, etc. But it DOES hold their attention span really well at a restaurant, and totally worth it sometimes.

(I will try and pick any up off of the floor before we leave because I don’t want to be “that,” customer, that makes the restaurant workers have to clean it up.)

• Sticker/Coloring Book. Stickers are a FAVE in our house. I think I have stickers on every chair in my house, at the moment. Peeling each sticker off, and sticking it on to a sheet of paper requires concentration for those little hands. (A.K.A quiet time.)

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

• Utensils. (Buy my favorites HERE!)There are times we visit a restaurant, and the spoons for the kid meals are gigantic! In case that happens, I like to keep an extra set of utensils in the restaurant kit for a backup.

• Bib. (Buy the thin bibs that fit well inside, HERE!)Let’s get real. Kids menus are full of dishes that contain red sauce, ketchup, and other messy colors. Plus, when we are going “out,” my kids are usually wearing their “better,” clothes. Nothing irks me more than to see a big red stain on a new little toddler shirt. Keeping a bib in the restaurant kit comes in VERY handy. Wipe it off with my next item below, and it’s good to go for next time.

• Wet Wipes. (Buy the small individual packages HERE!)Oh wet wipes can serve so many purposes. Clean those little hands. Wipe off the table of the germies. Clean the bib after use. Wipe up the spill on the table. They’re super handy for everything. Stock up. You’ll use them.

• Granola Bars.  (Buy them HERE!) I also always keep a “bar,” (what my children call it), in the restaurant kit, in case the food takes a little long getting to the table… so they can have a snack to hold them over. If a snack wasn’t needed… they are the PERFECT dessert, that I can negotiate with, so they’ll eat their veggies.

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

Take it from a mom that knows… get your restaurant kit put together today. You won’t regret it!

Pro Tip:

Did the kids have good behavior while at the restaurant? If so, maybe think about rewarding them with a “Caught you being good” ticket! We love using this at home.

Even if your kids aren’t toddlers anymore… if you need a way to keep them from getting bored while out, and so you don’t resort to letting your kids watch YouTube, yet again, try a busy bag!

Now, although this is specifically for a restaurant busy kit, there’s no reason it couldn’t be beneficial for a road trip with a toddler too!

Restaurant Kit - Toddler Busy Bag Ideas! https://fantabulosity.com

Sugar Cookie Truffles

Sugar Cookie Truffles! It’s like your favorite sugar cookie took a dip in a pool of awesomeness and came out wearing a white chocolate tuxedo. If you’re all about easy yet impressive, and if the idea of “cookie meets truffle” makes your heart skip a beat, then stick around. We’re about to drop a no-bake dessert recipe that’s as cool as the other side of the pillow.

Loving the idea of an easy truffle recipe? Then make sure to also check out this Biscoff truffles recipe!

Sugar cookie truffles sitting on a white plate.

Whether you’re making truffles for the holidays (like these Easter truffles) or just to enjoy for a sweet tooth, these cookie truffles will be great for a get-together or even for a party of one!

This recipe uses Lofthouse cookies, although you can use other types of sugar cookies. However, if you’ve never had a Lofthouse cookie, they’re undeniably delicious and are a really soft cookie, topped with a scrumptious buttercream frosting, and are highly recommended for this recipe.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 4 Ingredients: With only 4 ingredients required (plus sprinkles if you desire) this is one to remember when you don’t want a big task!
  • Customize the Color: Although adding sprinkles is optional, you can choose your favorite colors for sprinkles for the occasion and you can also add food coloring to your chocolate if you’d prefer a different color truffle completely.
  • Ready in under an hour: These no-bake truffles are ready to enjoy within under an hour!

🧾 Ingredients Needed

I’ve highlighted a couple of ingredients below with some relevant notes. Aside from this, the ingredients needed are pretty basic. Make sure to check the full recipe card down below for ingredients and instructions all in one place.

Labeled ingredients for sugar cookie truffles.

📖 Substitutions

If you find that substitutions are needed or wanted, here are some suggestions that may help:

  • Cookie – If you prefer to use a different type of cookie, you can. Any soft cookie in the bakery at the grocery store will work or you can make your own soft sugar cookies too.
  • Cream Cheese – If you don’t want to use cream cheese, you can use frosting instead. You’ll use the same amount as you would the cream cheese.

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Steps 1-4 of how to make sugar cookie truffles using Lofthouse cookies.

STEP 1. Crumble cookies. Place your cookies into the bowl of your mixer and mix on medium speed until fine crumbs.

STEP 2. Cream cheese. Add in the cream cheese and mix until the mixture is smooth.

STEP 3. Roll the balls. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the dough. Smush the dough in your hands and roll it into a ball.

STEP 4. Chill. Place the dough balls onto a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Place them in the fridge for 3 minutes.

Tips:
– Make sure you mix the dough well so it makes a paste.
– When rolling in to balls, work the dough in your hands to get out any lumps so they’re smooth balls.
– While rolling the balls, move your hands in different directions to create the circle shape.

Steps for making no bake sugar cookie truffles.

STEP 5. Melt Chocolate. Melt your chocolate with half the coconut oil over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Add the rest of the coconut oil if the chocolate is too thick.

STEP 6. Dip. Without sticking the fork in to one of the balls, pick it up and gently dip in the melted chocolate, covering it completely.

STEP 7. Remove. Carefully lift the ball out of the chocolate, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off back in to the bowl.

STEP 8. Rest. Place the chocolate-covered truffles on the sheet pan. Allow the chocolate to set for at least 10 minutes, and enjoy.

Sugar cookie truffles with sprinkles, on white plate.

💭 Recipe Pro Tips

  • For the melted chocolate, make sure the chocolate has the same consistency as paint. If your chocolate is too thick, it won’t look as well.
  • Place your sprinkles onto your truffles before the chocolate sets, so they stick.
Lofthouse sugar cookie truffles on white plate.

📋 Recipe FAQs

My chocolate seems too thick. What can I do to help get the right texture?

Adding more coconut oil will help thin out the chocolate.

What are Lofthouse cookies, and where do I find them?

You can typically find these soft, thick, sugar cookies that are topped with a colorful, thick, frosting and are usually in the bakery section of the grocery store.

Showing the inside of a sugar cookie truffle on a white plate, sitting next to whole truffles.

❄️ Storage

If you have leftover cookies, it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

🍪 More No-Bake Recipes You’ll Love

Do you love no-bake desserts like this one? We’ve picked out some of our similar favorite no-bake desserts for you to try too:

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

Sugar cookie truffles on white plate, with seeing the inside of one.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Sugar Cookie Truffles

These sugar cookie truffles are made using Lofthouse cookies and a few other ingredients to create a delicious no-bake treat.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 13 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings 12 truffles
Calories 187kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 10 Lofthouse Cookies
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 8 ounces white dipping chocolate
  • 1-2 Tablespoons coconut oil
  • Sprinkles optional

Instructions

  • Place your cookies into the bowl of your mixer and mix on medium speed until fine crumbs.
  • Add in the cream cheese and mix until the mixture is smooth.
  • Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the dough. Smush the dough in your hands and roll it into a ball.
  • Place the dough balls onto a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Place them in the fridge for 3 minutes.
  • Melt your chocolate with half the coconut oil over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Add the rest of the coconut oil if the chocolate is too thick.
  • Dip your balls into the chocolate using a fork and top them with your sprinkles.
  • Place them on the sheet pan. Allow the chocolate to set for at least 10 minutes, and enjoy.

Notes

Tips:
  • For the melted chocolate, make sure the chocolate has the same consistency as paint. If your chocolate is too thick, it won’t look as well.
  • Place your sprinkles onto your truffles before the chocolate sets, so they stick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1truffle | Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 76mg | Potassium: 74mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 140IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 0.3mg

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with your Husband

A romantic weekend with your husband may be just what you two need. But are you ready for it? Here are my 5 ways to prepare for your alone time!

Disclaimer:
Mom… I told you about half way in to my post “5 Simple Ways to Make Your Husband Want to Come Home,” to stop reading, because I was going to say some things you may not want to know about your daughter. Well… don’t even read this post. Ain’t nothing in it that you’ll want to see. 😉

Ok, now that my mom  has been forewarned…

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with your Husband

Oh snap! You have a sitter for a whole weekend?  (Babysitter, Dogsitter, Housesitter, whatev… you got a sitter.)

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with Your Husband https://fantabulosity.com

Let’s make it a good one, shall we?

My husband and I try to go away for at least a night, I’d say about once every 2 months. There’s nothing like getting away from home, out of the normal every day routine, and makin’ it happen. A whole weekend away doesn’t happen too often, but when it does… I wanna prepare for it. (I like to prepare for the one nighters too… but there’s something special about a whole weekend or even WEEK away.)

Let’s face it. When you go away for one night…

Going to bed by 9pm sounds exhilarating, with the thought that you won’t be woken up by a screamin’ baby in the middle of the night. You MAY get to dinner, but after that… it’s off to sleep. Ahhh… a full night.  But if you’re gone for more than one night, you can leave the next night for the good stuff.

A Romantic Weekend with Your Husband

Mom… you’re reading this aren’t you? Stop it.

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with Your Husband https://fantabulosity.com
Our first night “out,” after having our first baby. Dancing on stage. You couldn’t stop us.

Go Shopping. (For the right things.)

You know, the funny thing I’ve realized, and heard from others, is that some men don’t really care about the fancy-schmancy lingerie outfits. They really only care about what’s underneath.

So you’re telling me, I just spent $70 on this white lacy piece of fabric, (that is so small, it should be a “swatch,” for a larger version available in stores)… and you don’t even care about it?

Nope.

Crap.

But… I don’t know about you, when I have a pair of new underwear, and bra… I’m feelin’ better than ever. Plus, you can wear and wear and wear those again. That leather-strapped babydoll teaser onesie thing, isn’t going anywhere but the back of your undergarment drawer, when you get home. But if you’re like me, go buy that new underwear and bra, because if anything… it will make YOU feel good.

So in my experience (and research) a lot of men like what’s underneath…

Which brings me to my next point:

Groom Thyself.

In the Ways to Make your Husband Want to Come Home post, I suggested you may want to tend to your female upkeep. Trust me… I need to practice what I preach. Grab a new razor (If you’re like me, you’ll need a new one. Because an old one’s not gonna cut it. Literally.)  Get to shavin’. (Or even see my tips for getting laser hair removal like I did, and that’s even better!) Put on some of that smelly good lotion, and pack it in your bag, so you can reapply and reapply while you’re gone.

Some of my friends even go get waxed. (And I mean WAXED. I haven’t been brave enough to do this yet. I may, or may not have gotten about 5 minutes away from my Brazilian wax appointment, and chickened out. No lie. I called them, & told them I was sick to my stomach-thinking about how my hair was about to be ripped out of my special place), and went shopping instead.

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with Your Husband https://fantabulosity.com
Traditional airport photo before flying out on our romantic weekend…

Save the tough talk.

You know those conversations that you and your husband have every once in a while, that ALWAYS cause a fight, or extreme tension? For years, I would think…

Oh good. We won’t have the kids, so we can maybe finally talk about the finances. Or how he decided on that huge life changing decision, without me.

Oh please no. If I’ve learned anything, there’s nothing worse than preparing for an entire romantic weekend away, to have it go down the crapper in the first 30 minutes. I know it’s alone time, and you don’t get that often to talk about the important things… but this weekend is about romance. If it’s not crazy important… do yourself a favor and wait. Enjoy each other’s company, not attack each other.

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with Your Husband https://fantabulosity.com
Romancin’ it, down in Mexico

 Drink some caffeine.

Don’t let a second night get away from you, where you just end up wanting to go to sleep right after the early bird special at the restaurant down the road. Do whatever it is that gives you energy and makes you want to stay awake past your toddler’s normal bedtime. For me? I drink coffee at 4:00 in the afternoon. That seems to keep me up to at least 11:00. 😉

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with Your Husband https://fantabulosity.com
We headed to Boca Grande for a wedding/romantic getaway.

Do something he loves.

I can’t talk about The Five Love Languages enough. What is it? It’s a book, written about how everyone has a certain “love language.” (Read more about it here: The Secret Weapon in my Marriage)

1. Acts of Service

2. Touch

3. Quality Time

4. Gifts

5. Words of Affirmation

Find out what your husbands love language is, and pick something that “fits,” what that is, and act on it, on your romantic getaway. If you’ve been together for any time, you may think you already know what his is. You may be surprised, after you read the book… or he may have more than one. If you don’t have time to read a book before your weekend, no worries. I’ll see if I can help and give examples:

Disclaimer:  I’m using my own words and definition of these. PLEASE read the book if you can. It was a total life changer in my marriage.

5 Love Languages

  1. Acts of Service – Do something for him, that he hates to do, or that he likes for you to do.
    (Example: He’s not in to details or super busy…so plan and book the hotel, so that’s one less thing he has to do.)
  2. Touch – He loves the physical touch that you can give him. Hugging, kissing, etc.
    (Example: Give that manly man a massage. Grab massage oil and get to work. WARNING: This may lead to something else, so scroll up and read “Groom Thyself,” again if need be.)
  3. Quality Time – Spending time together as a couple, alone. P.S. This is mine, so I feel like I can explain this one well.
    (Example: You’re already spending time alone together on a romantic weekend, so that should be a huge quality time “love deposit,” but take it even further if you can. Schedule a couples massage. Or if you go shopping, shop together in the same store. Don’t drift off to Sephora, while he’s in Dick’s Sporting Goods.)
  4. Gifts – Buying/Making something and giving it to him.
    (Example: It could be something HUGE, like tickets to his favorite sporting event while you’re on your romantic weekend… or something small like his favorite candy that he never eats at home.)
  5. Words of Affirmation – Telling your husband all the good stuff that he likes to hear.
    (Example: Tell him multiple times – in different ways – how he’s the best husband for taking time to get away with you for the weekend. Go one step further and brag about him on your Facebook status. That MAY just get you bonus points. 😉 )

I hope you have a FABULOUS time with your romantic weekend with your husband! Really… you deserve it. I’m DYING to know if you did any of these. Let me know,

Until next time.

Simple Chili Recipe

Simple Chili Recipe: An easy recipe that just may be voted the best chili recipe because it is the perfect base for your favorite chili toppings!

It’s a classic chili recipe that’s perfect for game day, a large crowd or to serve your family on a weeknight. If you’re in to food bar ideas, make a soup bar, and serve up this chili with this Cowboy Stew and this Buffalo Chicken Soup for an awesome selection!

Easy Chili with cheese, fritos and sour cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

We love this chili around here because it can be so versatile, and each person can customize the flavor how they wish, and it’s amazing on top of items like these chili cheese corn dogs.

With this basic chili recipe, that’s made with simple ingredients, you can either add your favorite secret ingredient, or the ingredients that make up your favorite chili recipe.

See additional topping ideas and mix-ins below!

We especially love making Frito Chili Pies with this chili recipe!

How to Make this Easy Homemade Chili Recipe

Grab a large pot and get ready for a hearty chili that will soon become a family favorite.

Easy Chili Recipe in White Dish with Cheese and Corn chips

Ingredients

Not pictured: Optional brown sugar and baking soda. See notes below.

Ingredients for chili recipe

Make sure to scroll down to the full recipe card with ingredients and instructions for this perfect comfort food recipe.

  • chili beans
  • tomato sauce
  • cumin
  • sliced cheese (we prefer thick sliced american cheese from the deli.)
  • ground beef (See our other ground beef dinner ideas!)
  • brown sugar – this is optional and my family loves the touch of sweetness this adds
  • baking soda – adding baking soda and help the acidity of the tomato sauce and we feel this makes the chili less tangy.

The ingredients are something that you can have on hand, or literally grab at the grocery store super quick, and come home and throw together in a pinch, in bulk, for a crowd, making it the perfect last-minute easy dinner recipe too!

Step by Step Instructions

  1. First, cook 1 lb. of ground beef over medium heat, in the pot you’ll be making your chili in. (You can use a separate dish but this saves on having more dirty dishes!)

    Cook for about 7-10 minutes until beef is fully cooked and it is no longer pink.

    If the ground beef you’re cooking has a higher fat content, this could result in a bit of grease in the pot after cooking. For best results, drain the grease and discard grease. (DO NOT DRAIN GREASE IN TO SINK!)
Cooked ground beef in pot
  1. Once the ground beef is full cooked, it’s time to add the chili beans, tomato sauce, cumin and sliced cheese.
chili ingredients in pot
  1. Stir to combine the ingredients, and cook over low-medium heat, let the chick over a gentle simmer, until the chili has cooked through, and the cheese has melted. (Usually about 15 minutes.)
Chili simmering in pot
  1. If desired, serve as is!
Hearty chili in white bowl

Chili Topping Ideas and Mix-Ins

Although this basic chili is amazing as it is, it’s always fun to add additional toppings and spices too! Here are our favorite suggestions:

Spices

  • salt
  • pepper
  • garlic salt
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • paprika
  • oregano

Love spicy chili?

Easily add items like:

  • cayenne pepper
  • chili powder
  • jalapeno peppers
  • hot sauce
  • red bell pepper
  • chopping green onion or white onions

Looking for a sweet chili?

You can add ingredients such as:

  • more brown sugar
  • white granulated sugar
  • honey
  • sweet corn

Garnish and Serve with:

  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • corn chips (or Fritos)
  • a dollop of sour cream
  • tortilla chips
  • saltine crackers
  • oyster crackers
  • chopped white onions
  • chopped red onions
  • sliced avocado
  • peanut butter
Chili with cheese, sour cream and fritos

What to Serve with Chili?

Having a big pot of chili is a meal in itself… but there’s nothing better than serving a delicious sandwich or pairing with a big bowl of chili!

Our favorite side dishes for chili are:

Or have a chili bar, along with a hot dog bar, if hosting a party!

How to Store Leftover Chili

Usually, when making this easy chili recipe, I like to make a double batch so we have leftovers to eat the next day or freeze.

Refrigerate Leftovers:

If you plan to eat leftover chili the next day, simply store the leftovers in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for the next 4-5 days.

Freezing Leftovers:

Chili freezes so well, and it’s so great to have premade chili on a day or weeknight when there’s not a lot of time to cook.

Store chili in a freezable container or in plastic zip-top bags.

How to Reheat Chili:

If refrigerated – Simply place in a microwaveable bowl, and cover with a paper towel (to prevent chili from splattering all over the inside of the microwave) and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. If reheating on the stovetop, reheat on medium heat for 5 minutes or until heated through.

If frozen – Thaw a container of chili in hot water and then place in a microwavable dish or small soup pot for the stove. Then follow the above steps for reheating for eating.

If you love chili, you’ll also love this White Chicken Chili Recipe, Vegetarian Chili Recipe, and this Venison Chili Recipe!

Or if you’re just looking for an easy soup recipe in the winter, this ham and beans recipe is so nice to add to the dinner rotation!

Recipe

Homemade chili in small bowl with Fritos and cheese on top.
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4.11 from 28 votes

Simple Chili Recipe

Simple Chili Recipe: An easy recipe that just may be voted the best chili recipe because it is the perfect base for your favorite chili toppings!
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 358kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 28 ounces chili beans 2 (14 ounce cans)
  • 14 ounce can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons cumin
  • 3-4 Slices thick American cheese or 8 slices of thin
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
  • 1 pinch baking soda optional

Instructions

  • First, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat, in the pot you'll be making your chili in.
  • Cook ground beef for about 7-10 minutes until beef is fully cooked and it is no longer pink. If the ground beef you're cooking has a higher fat content, this could result in a bit of grease in the pot after cooking. For best results, drain the grease and discard grease.
  • Reduce to low-medium heat.
  • Add in tomato sauce, chili beans, cumin and sliced cheese and stir to combine.
  • If using, add in baking soda and brown sugar, and stir to combine.
  • Rreduce heat to gentle simmer.
  • Let simmer for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Serve with favorite toppings if desired!

Video

Notes

Chili Topping Ideas and Mix-Ins
Although this basic chili is amazing as it is, it’s always fun to add additional toppings and spices too! Here are our favorite suggestions:
Spices
  • salt
  • pepper
  • garlic salt
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • paprika
  • oregano
Love spicy chili?
Easily add items like:
  • cayenne pepper
  • chili powder
  • jalapeno peppers
  • hot sauce – we love Frank’s
  • red bell pepper
  • chopping green onion or white onions
Looking for a sweet chili?
You can add ingredients such as:
  • a little brown sugar
  • white granulated sugar
  • honey
  • sweet corn
Garnish and Serve with:
  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • corn chips (or Fritos)
  • a dollop of sour cream
  • tortilla chips
  • saltine crackers
  • oyster crackers
  • chopped white onions
  • chopped red onions
  • sliced avocado
  • peanut butter
How to Store Leftover Chili:
Usually when making this easy chili recipe, I like to make a double batch so we have leftovers to eat the next day or freeze.
Refrigerate Leftovers:
If you plan to eat leftover chili the next day, simply store the leftovers in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for the next 4-5 days.
Freezing Leftovers:
Chili freezes so well, and it’s so great to have premade chili on a day or weeknight when there’s not a lot of time to cook.
Store chili in a freezable container or in plastic zip-top bags.
How to Reheat Chili:
If refrigerated – Simply place in a microwaveable bowl, and cover with a paper towel (to prevent chili from splattering all over the inside of the microwave) and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. If reheating on the stovetop, reheat on medium heat for 5 minutes or until heated through.
If frozen – Thaw a container of chili in hot water and then place in a microwavable dish or small soup pot for the stove. Then follow the above steps for reheating for eating.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (¼ recipe) | Calories: 358kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 349mg | Potassium: 380mg | Vitamin A: 185IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 213mg | Iron: 4.3mg

Chicken Caprese Sandwich

This recipe for a Chicken Caprese Sandwich is made of deliciously seasoned chicken breast, fresh tomatoes, Ciabatta rolls, balsamic reduction, fresh basil leaves, and slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. It’s a sandwich recipe that’s perfect for the summer months and you can get the ingredients at almost any grocery store.

Chicken Caprese Sandwich on white plate, with balsamic dripping on to plate.

A delicious, traditional Caprese salad is perfect during the summer and is made up of mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil. It’s a cool dish that has a ton of flavor, even with a few ingredients.

So with my love of Caprese salads, I loved the idea of turning it in to a sandwich with this chicken sandwich recipe. Now if you’re not a fan of chicken, you’ll also love this Caprese wrap that doesn’t use any meat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It uses simple ingredients: Although a Caprese sandwich sounds fancy, you can usually find the ingredients at most grocery stores.
  • Fancy and Simple: Planning on making a lunch or dinner to impress? This sandwich is perfect for that but it’s also simple enough to make for a quick lunch just for you!
  • Ready in only 20 minutes: Talk about a quick and easy dinner idea! This recipe, from start to finish, takes less than 30 minutes.

Ingredients Needed

I’ve highlighted a couple of ingredients below for this caprese sandwich recipe with some relevant notes. Aside from this, the ingredients needed are pretty basic.

Labeled ingredients on white counter for caprese sandwich.
  • Mozzarella – You can find the fresh mozzarella in the shape of a ball, and you’ll want to slice that in to thick slices for your caprese sandwich.
  • Chicken – Make sure to choose boneless, skinless, chicken breasts for this recipe. We use these in our chicken club sandwich as well and we feel it’s the best cut of meat for a juicy, tender sandwich.
  • Pesto Sauce – You can make homemade pesto sauce recipe but we prefer using store-bought pesto.

Substitutions

Sometimes substitutions are necessary because of ingredients that are unavailable or needed for dietary restrictions. Here are some suggestions that can help:

  • Bread – Ciabatta bread is best for this sandwich but that doesn’t mean it’s the only kind you can use. If you choose use different types of slices of bread, it’s best to make sure that you choose a thicker bread.
  • Basil – if you can’t find fresh basil, it’s ok to use dried but it won’t be nearly as good as fresh!
  • Skipping the Balsamic – I’m not a fan of balsamic vinegar. So I skip this when I make a sandwich for myself. However, I know how popular it is for caprese recipes, and all of my friends and family love it, so I figured you would too. However, if you don’t like it as much, you can easily skip that part.

How to Make This Caprese Chicken Sandwich

With this type of sandwich, it’s best to assemble it right before enjoying it. However, you can make the chicken ahead of time, so it’s quick to assemble when the time comes to eat.

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Steps 1-4 of how to make caprese chicken sandwiches.

STEP 1. Season the chicken. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. (The amounts can vary based on taste preference.)

STEP 2. Oil. Heat cooking oil over medium-high heat.

STEP 3. Raw chicken. Place seasoned chicken into the pan.

STEP 4. Cook chicken. Brown chicken on each side, flipping once, until chicken is cooked through; about 4-5 min on each side until golden brown, and/or until the internal temperature is checked with a meat thermometer and it has reached 165 degrees F.

Cooked chicken covered in pesto sauce, in white bowl.

Coat in Pesto. Place the cooked chicken in a bowl and toss with the pesto sauce.

Image collage of steps 5-8 of how to make chicken caprese sandwich.

STEP 5. Add chicken. Place pesto-covered chicken, on to a bottom piece of Ciabatta bun.

STEP 6. Mozzarella. Next, add on mozzarella slices on top of chicken.

STEP 7. Balsamic and Basil. Layer on balsamic and basil, on top of mozzarella.

STEP 8. Tomato. Lastly, adding juicy tomatoes on top and add top bun.

Close up of caprese chicken sandwich.

Recipe Pro Tips

  • Leftover chicken. This is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken too!
  • Tomato Slices. Using fresh garden tomatoes for this recipe are superb. However, I know not everyone has a garden. This is a great reason to stock up on tomatoes at the farmer’s market, or at least during peak season at the grocery store. However, do not refrigerate your tomatoes. This causes them to lose flavor.

Recipe FAQs

What is a Caprese sandwich made of?

All Caprese sandwiches should have mozzarella, fresh basil, and tomato. Adding a protein or a drizzle of balsamic is common too.

What goes well with Caprese sandwich?

A pasta salad recipe pairs perfectly with a Caprese sandwich, as well as carrot sticks and jalapeno ranch dip or even a honey lime fruit salad.

Are Caprese sandwiches healthy?

When compared to sandwiches such as a fried chicken sandwich, yes, they can be considered healthy. However if “healthy” looks like “low-carb” to you, then using ciabatta bread for this sandwich would not be a good choice.

Chicken caprese sandwich sliced in half.

Storage

If there are leftovers from this sandwich, it’s best to store the toppings separately in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, and then assemble before serving, so the bread does not get soggy and so you can reheat the chicken when ready to enjoy.

More Sandwich Recipes You’ll Love

If you love sandwich recipes, then you’ll love these other recipes:

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 Caprese Sandwich on white plate.
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5 from 1 vote

Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Chicken Caprese Sandwich: Fresh mozzarella, basil, tomatoes, and bread make up this delicious grilled cheese recipe. This Italian take on the American classic is so delicious and an easy lunch recipe.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 sandwiches
Calories 568kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast 
  • 2 Tablespoon cooking oil
  • pinch salt -/+ based on taste preference
  • pinch black pepper -/+ based on taste preference
  • ½ teaspoon garlic pepper Or -/+ based on preference.
  • 4 Tablespoons pesto sauce
  • 4 Ciabatta buns
  • 8 slices fresh Mozzarella
  • fresh basil leaves
  • 2 Tablespoons Balsamic reduction
  • 1 large fresh tomato

Instructions

  • Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic on each side of the chicken breast.
  • Heat cooking oil over medium high heat.
  • Place seasoned chicken into the pan. Brown chicken on each side, flipping once, until chicken is cooked through; about 4-5 min on each side.
  • Place the cooked chicken in a bowl and toss with the pesto sauce.

Assemble the Sandwich

  • Add the chicken breast to the bun. Then put the fresh mozzarella on top of the chicken. Sprinkle the mozzarella with salt and pepper to help balance the sweet from the balsamic. 
  • Then add as much basil and balsamic as you would like.
  • Lastly add the tomato slice and sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwich | Calories: 568kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 119mg | Sodium: 904mg | Potassium: 570mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1099IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 321mg | Iron: 1mg

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

These Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are made using only 2 ingredients and are ready to enjoy in about 15 minutes!

You’ll love using your favorite refrigerated cookie dough, and Mini Reese’s Cups (or your favorite, similar mini peanut butter cup) in this peanut butter cup cookie recipe.

Peanut butter cup cookies on a wire cooling rack.

An easy cookie recipe is always great to keep on hand for those last-minute needs or sweet tooth cravings. These no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies and cake mix peanut butter cookies are favorites around here for quick cookie needs, and now these Reeses Cup cookies are right up there with them!

If you love peanut butter desserts, you’ll also enjoy this popular no-bake peanut butter pie recipe, too, and this peanut butter chocolate dump cake features chocolate and peanut butter for the ultimate flavor combination.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

  • Ingredients – Not only are there just 2 ingredients, but they should be easy to find at any major grocery store.
  • Quick – Have unexpected guests? Need a quick dessert to take to someone’s party? These can be ready in 15 minutes!
  • Versatile – Use your favorite cookie dough. Whether that’s your favorite cookie dough flavor or your favorite homemade cookie dough.
  • For a Gathering – If you're baking for a group, you might also like these desserts for a potluck.

Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy cookie recipe:

Mini peanut butter cups (Reeses) sitting next to Toll House cookie dough in a tub.

Important Note: The amount of cookies this recipe can make, depends on the amount of cookie dough you plan to purchase or use. The tub of Toll House cookie dough that I use makes about 36 cookies, so make sure you purchase enough peanut butter cups to make the amount of cookies you plan to make.

  • Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough: You can either use the tub like I do, the roll, or make homemade cookie dough. If you really love peanut butter, making your own peanut butter cookie dough is a great option. Or, sugar cookie dough pairs well with the chocolate peanut butter flavors of the candy too.
  • Mini Peanut Butter Cups: I prefer using Reese’s Miniature Cups but you can use your favorite brand or even the regular-size peanut butter cups and chop them up for the center, although do note the appearance of the finished cookie will look different than shown here.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

Begin by preheating the oven to the temperature recommended on the package of cookie dough. In my case, it was 350°F.

Cookie dough in muffin pan.
Mini Reeses Cup being pushed down in to center of baked cookie.
  1. Spray the cavities of a 12-cavity muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, and roll in to a ball, and place in to a cavity of the muffin tin. Repeat 11 more times.

Tip: You can also use a mini muffin tin. Watch the bake time in case the cook faster.

  1. Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven, and bake for the recommended time listed on the container of the cookie dough. In my case, this was 12-13 minutes or until golden brown.
  2. While the cookies are baking, unwrap 12 mini peanut butter cups and set aside.
  3. When the cookies have finished baking, place one mini peanut butter cup in to the center of each warm cookie. (You must do this quickly after removing the cookies from the oven, so the peanut butter cup will easily push in.)
Peanut butter cup stuffed cookies on cooling rack.
  1. Allow the cookies to cool in the muffin tin until they’re warm enough to touch. Using a spoon, gently remove the cookies from the tin (you may need to gently outline the cookie with the spoon to make sure it doesn’t stick to the pan when lifting out) and lift out each cookie and place on a cooling rack.
Hand holding peanut butter cup cookie, showing the peanut butter cup in the center.

Recipe Tips

  • Plan ahead: Make sure to unwrap the peanut butter cups ahead of time so the cookies don’t cool off before you can get them inserted.
  • Christmas Cookie: These would be amazing for a Christmas cookie exchange with these other Christmas cookie recipes!
  • Spray Generously: Make sure to spray the muffin tin, generously before baking, so the cookie cups will be easy to lift out, without breaking them.

Storing Tips

  • Leftovers: Store baked peanut butter cup cookies in a sealable plastic bag or in container and enjoy within 4-5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze the unbaked cookie dough according to package directions. You can also freeze the finished cookie recipe once they’ve cooled off. Place in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Recipe FAQs

Why do my cookies fall apart after baking?

They possibly baked too long. Try baking for a shorter amount of time, just until the tops of the cookies look as if they’re turning a slightly, golden brown.

What size muffin tin do you use for peanut butter cup cookies?

A regular-size muffin tin or mini-muffin tin can be used. The difference between the two will be more cookie on the sides, giving a better cookie-to-candy ratio in a bite when using a regular muffin tin. Where the mini-muffin tin will have more cookie at the bottom instead of surrounding the chocolate candy.

Can you add chocolate candy to cookies?

Absolutely. Chocolate candy bars can be chopped up and inserted in to the center instead of Reese’s if desired, such as Snickers, Twix, or your favorite.

It's simple to make this 2-ingredient cookie recipe! Pin this recipe to save it!

Recipe

Peanut butter cup cookies on wire rack.
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5 from 3 votes

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

Using only 2 ingredients for these peanut butter cup cookies; refrigerated store-bought cookie dough, and mini peanut butter cups, this easy cookie recipe is ready in minutes.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 36 cookie cups
Calories 160kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • oven
  • muffin tin

Ingredients

Cookie Ingredients:

  • 36 ounces refrigerated cookie dough for baking
  • 36 mini peanut butter cups such as Reese's

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° F or to the temperature in the directions on the cookie dough container.
  • Grease a regular sized muffin tin, generously.
  • Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, and roll it in to a ball using your hands, and place the ball of dough in to one of the cavities of the muffin tin. Repeat 11 more times until each cavity is filled.
    (If making more than 12, you may need to refill the muffin tin after the first batch is done. Don't forget to re-spray the pan, and allow the pan to cool before reusing.)
  • Bake in preheated oven for the time as instructed on the cookie dough container. In my case it was 12-13 minutes.
  • While baking, unwrap chocoalte peanut butter candies so they're ready to insert in to the cookies as soon as you remove them from the oven.
  • When cookies are lightly golden brown at the top, remove them from the oven and immediately insert one mini peanut butter cup in to the center of each cookie.
  • Allow the cookies to cool in the muffin pan for a few minutes or until they're cool enough to the touch.
  • Using a spoon, gently run it around the rim of each cookie, making sure the cookie will detach from the pan easily and lift out and place on a cooling rack. Enjoy.

Video

Notes

You do not have to make the full tub of cookies. I usually only make 12 at a time for a quick dessert for my family but use the entire tub when making them for a large group or for a cookie exchange.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie cup with whipped cream | Calories: 160kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 107mg | Potassium: 66mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg

Lemon Puppy Chow

Lemon Puppy Chow: If you love the classic muddy buddies recipe and lemon, then you’re going to love this easy recipe too! Using white chocolate instead of milk chocolate, add lemon juice and zest, and a few other ingredients and this easy snack recipe is ready in just 20 minutes!

Lemon puppy chow in white bowl, sitting next to lemons.

We absolutely love the classic puppy chow recipe, but we also have so much fun coming up with different versions like this one. This hot chocolate muddy buddies recipe is perfect in the winter, while the lemon muddy buddies are perfect in the summer. And, I love making this Butterfinger puppy chow for the holidays.

Using cereal to make no-bake desserts is very common, and we love using different kinds for different recipes. These Fruity Pebbles Rice Krispie Treats are a fruity version of the classic rice krispy treat, and these Lucky Charms Treats are such a fun twist too.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Refreshing: With the lemon flavor, it’s so refreshing for the warmer months. It’s still a sweet treat but not too heavy and has the perfect amount of lemon flavor.
  • Easy recipe: Zesting your lemon may be the most work that you have to put in to this recipe, and even that is easy!
  • Ready in only 20 minutes: In just a few minutes, you can have a snack, ready to conquer that sweet tooth!

Ingredients Needed

Nothing fancy is needed for this recipe! These simple ingredients can be found at most grocery stores. But if you stock up on lemons, make this classic lemon meringue pie for dessert, too!

Labeled ingredients for lemon puppy chow.
  • Butter – We use unsalted for this recipe but honestly, you can use salted if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Cereal – We usually use rice square cereal (such as Rice Chex) but we’ve also used Corn Chex and those taste amazing as well.
  • White Chocolate Chips – There are many different brands of white chocolate chips but we prefer using Guittard or Ghirardelli because they’re a great quality of chocolate when melted and for taste.

Note: You may not need all 4 lemons. (It can depend on the size of your lemons and if you’ll be using the lemon juices from the same lemons you’ll be zesting.) You can zest first, and then slice the lemons to get the 2 Tablespoons of juice. If you have lemons left over, this lemon blondies recipe is another one to try.

Substitutions

  • Lemons – if you don’t have enough lemons to get the lemon juice from, you can use store-bought lemon juice. But remember, you’ll still want the lemon zest and even though it doesn’t sound like it’s enough to matter, it’s important.

How to Make Lemon Puppy Chow

Grab a couple of bowls, one medium-sized, and one large bowl. You’ll be melting the chocolate, butter, and lemon together in the medium bowl and pouring it over the cereal that will be in the biggest bowl. So make sure to use a large bowl that will hold and allow room to stir 9 cups of cereal.

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Recipe Prep – Important!

First, you’ll want to zest at least 4 Tablespoons of lemon zest and make at least 2 Tablespoons of lemon juice from your lemons.

Next, pour cereal in to large bowl, so when the chocolate has melted, you can quickly pour over the cereal before it hardens.

Steps 1-4 lemon puppy chow.

STEP 1. Lemon coating. Pour white chocolate chips, lemon juice, zest, and butter in a medium-sized, microwavable bowl.

STEP 2. Melt chocolate. In 30-second intervals, melt the chocolate in the microwave, stirring well after each time, until melted. (This was a total of 3 times for us.)

STEP 3. Pour over cereal. Next, pour melted chocolate over cereal and gently stir until combined.

STEP 4. Add half the powdered sugar. Next, pour half of the sugar on top of the melted chocolate-covered cereal and stir again, gently.

Tip: When stirring, stir slowly and be careful not to mash the cereal so it breaks. You want to try and keep the pieces whole for easy snacking.

You can also add the chocolate-covered cereal to a brown paper bag or ziptop bag, and then shake to coat with powdered sugar if you prefer.

STEP 5. Add remaining sugar. Then, pour the remaining powdered sugar on top of the cereal and stir until coated again. Serve!

Recipe Pro Tips

  • Spread and Cool. You can pour the lemon puppy chow on a baking sheet after coating for it to fully cool before serving, if desired.
  • Extra Powdered Sugar. Feel free to sprinkle extra powdered sugar on top just before serving if the chocolate has consumed a lot of the sugar and you prefer a dusting.
  • Crunchy/Chewy Texture. The combination of the lemon juice and the white chocolate can create a chewy texture to this snack recipe, yet there’s still crunch in some areas too! It’s the perfect texture combo! If yours has this texture, you’ve made the recipe correctly!
Lemon puppy chow in white bowl, sitting next lemons.

Serving Suggestions

  • Laid-back snacking: This recipe is great for snacking on the weekends or for a movie night.
  • Party snack: Serving this at a party is a crowd-pleaser and everyone loves the lemon twist to a classic favorite.
  • Serve on top: Take things to a whole other level and add on top of a bowl of ice cream for a crunch snack with a creamy soft serve.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container or it can get stale.
  • You can also freeze any leftovers if needed. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

More Lemon Recipes You’ll Love

If you have lemons and are looking for other recipes to use them in, these are our most popular lemon recipes that you’ll love:

Recipe

Lemon Puppy Chow in white bowl.
Print Pin
5 from 3 votes

Lemon Puppy Chow

This recipe is a delicious twist on classic Muddy Buddies. The lemon flavors shine through so wonderfully and this recipe is refreshing on a hot day!
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 9 cups
Calories 518kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 9 cups rice square cereal or corn square cereal (such as Chex)
  • 12 ounces white chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup or 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 Tablespoons lemon zest
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup powdered sugar plus extra for garnish

Instructions

  • Prep cereal: Pour cereal into a large mixing bowl.
  • Make lemon chocolate: In a separate microwaveable bowl, add white chocolate chips, butter, lemon zest, and juice. Microwave in 30-second intervals, until the chips are melted and you are able to mix completely.
  • Cover cereal: Pour the melted mixture, over the top of the cereal, and gently stir to coat.
  • Mix: Once evenly mixed, pour cereal mixture in to a large, resealable bag. (You can also stir in bowl if you don't have a bag but only be gentle so you don't break the pieces.)
  • Sugar: Pour about ½ cup powdered sugar on top of cereal, seal bag & shake.
  • More sugar: Once coated, open bag, and pour remaining powdered sugar over cereal.
  • Coat: Seal bag & shake again, or if stirring in bowl, stir until evenly covered. You can sprinkle on more powdered sugar if desired, as a garnish. Enjoy!

Notes

Note: When mixing lemon juice and chocolate, and covering the crunchy cereal, it can make the puppy chow have a chewier texture than a full-on crunch. This is one of our favorite parts!
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 518kcal | Carbohydrates: 87g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 388mg | Potassium: 344mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 836IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 210mg | Iron: 19mg

Pizza Bagels

Pizza Bagels: A kid-friendly, quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for new cooks in the kitchen or to make for a fast lunch or dinner!

Ready to eat in about 15 minutes, these easy bagel pizza bites, along with these French bread pizzas, are a family weeknight dinner and easy to customize for individual topping favorites!

Pizza Bagels Recipe
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What You’ll Love About Mini Pizza Bagels

  • These mini pizzas are a quick recipe can be made and ready to eat in 15 minutes!
  • The round bagels are perfect for little hands. Those huge triangle pieces from the pizza delivery place are hard for those little hands to hold!
  • If you’re running low on bagels, you can use English muffins too!
  • Topping options are endless!

I ended up making these ALL of the time as a kiddo (and these pizza dogs) because it seemed as if we always had the ingredients on hand, and it didn’t make a huge mess in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe to feed your family or if you’re running out of ideas that your teenager can make while they’re home alone, you’ll want to save this recipe for SURE! You can also make the family wax nostalgic by serving up School Lunch Pizza that tastes just like I remember.

How to Make Pizza Bagels

Pizza Bagels Ingredients

First, using a nonstick sheet pan or a sheet of aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy clean up!

Want to make your own bagels? Storebought bagels are easier but they can be incredibly fresh and delicious when made at home too.

If the bagels are not sliced yet, go ahead and slice them. Next, lay them out face-up on your baking sheet and spoon the tomato sauce on to the bagels, and spread to fully cover the tops.

pizza bagels with tomato sauce on a baking sheet

Sprinkle your cheese over the bagels. As much as you want.
(To be honest, I like to sprinkle on a LOT because it will fall through the middle and melt and turn a little brown… and then I peel it off of the baking sheet and have a bite of glorious cheese. I think this is the best part!)

Bagel pizza ingredients - top with cheese

Sprinkle on your favorite toppings or leave some with just “cheese” for those like it simple!

Sauce Suggestions:

If you want to mix things up and use a different sauce, other than marinara sauce or pizza sauce, these are some options to choose from:

Topping Suggestions:

Pepperoni Bagel Pizza Recipe

I usually only do pepperoni, and I leave a few “cheese,” pizzas for my youngest who’s not a huge fan of pepperoni.

This is where you can also sprinkle on fun spices and seasonings if you want.

Bake at 350° for 10 Minutes

Once your oven has preheated place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and bake at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes!

In a flash, they’re done and ready to devour.

Baked bagel pizzas

Talk about the best recipe for busy weeknights!

Throw this pizza bagel recipe together in a flash, and you’ve fed your family dinner in a snap. Plus… it’s pizza, so of course, your kids will love it!

Pizza bagels with pepperoni on a baking sheet
Bagel pizzas recipe

Storage

Once they have cooled off, it’s safe to put them in an air-tight container or even in a ziptop bag. To reheat, you can place back in a 350° oven for about 3-5 minutes, until pizzas are reheated. Or, our favorite way to reheat leftover pizza so it’s not soggy and it tastes just like it did the first time we had it, we use an air fryer!

What to Serve with Pizza Bagels

We’re really in to salad recipes around here so I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t tell you about this scrumptious side salad recipe, that would go LOVELY with these little pizzas.

Or, if you’re looking for more of a bread side, this easy focaccia bread is so delicious!

For dipping, you’ll really love this jalapeno ranch dip to serve alongside it! And for the easiest and simplest treat, once the pizza is finished, these chocolate-covered teddy bear graham crackers definitely hit the spot.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Place parchment paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet before baking, for easy clean-up!
  • Have fun with the toppings! The great thing about using bagels to make pizza is that they can easily be customized to everyone’s preference, much easier than doing a whole pizza!
  • If you’re hosting a party, a pizza bar is a great idea and one of our favorite food bars when having people over! Simply place all of the topping selections out, have everyone build their own and choose their own toppings, and either rent, buy or borrow a small pizza oven or even use a toaster oven!
  • If your kiddos’ hands are itty bitty, use kitchen shears to cut the bagel pizzas into small bite-size pieces. Heck with trying to use a fork, pizza cutter, or hands. Kitchen shears are my best friend! Or, grab the mini bagels and make them bite-size!

Recipe

Bagel pizza topped with pepperonis on baking sheet.
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5 from 4 votes

Pizza Bagels

These pizza bagels are the perfect quick dinner recipe and are great for the pickiest eaters! Pizza night made easy with this recipe.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 8 pizza bagels
Calories 172kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 4 bagels I buy them in the refrigerated section because they stay fresh longer
  • 1 cup tomato sauce can substitute with pizza sauce
  • 1-½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Toppings (optional):

  • pepperoni can substitute with bacon or sausage

Instructions

  • Preheat the over to 350 degrees F.
  • Slice the bagels horizontally, in half, and lay them open faced on a sheet of aluminum foil.
  • Spoon sauce onto the tops of the bagels. I usually do a thin layer, because I don’t like a lot of sauce. But you can make them as saucy as you want!
  • Sprinkle a layer of cheese on top of the bagels.
  • Add any additional pizza toppings on the bagels, and spices if you prefer! 
  • Bake the pizzas for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Notes

  • If you prefer them a little more brown at the top, broil at the end of the cooking time for just a few seconds! But keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
  • Place parchment paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet before baking, for easy clean-up!
  • Have fun with the toppings! The great thing about using bagels to make pizza is that they can easily be customized to everyone’s preference, much easier than doing a whole pizza!
  • If you’re hosting a party, a pizza bar is a great idea and one of our favorite food bars when having people over! Simply place all of the topping selections out, have everyone build their own, and either rent, buy or borrow a small pizza oven or even use a toaster oven!
  • If your kiddos’ hands are itty bitty, use kitchen shears to cut the bagel pizzas into small bite-size pieces. Heck with trying to use a fork, pizza cutter, or hands. Kitchen shears are my best friend! Or, grab the mini bagels and make them bite-size!

Nutrition

Serving: 1pizza bagel | Calories: 172kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 484mg | Potassium: 159mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 2.1mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 1.1mg

I hope this recipe eases your menu planning! Comment below and me know how they were and what toppings you put on yours!

Southern Fried Pork Chops

Southern Fried Pork Chops – This delicious, bone-in pork chops recipe is simple to make, so juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Similar to our country-fried steak recipe, the pork chops are marinated in a buttermilk seasoning mixture, and they come out flavorful after being cooked on the stove-top in the skillet.

Southern fried pork chops on white platter, after cooked.

Serve this Southern fried pork chops recipe with your favorite side dishes, like Instant Pot mashed potatoes (or this fried potatoes recipe) with white country gravy, green beans, and a country-style homemade biscuit for the ultimate, classic Southern dish and dinner idea.

If you love country-fried recipes like this one, we think you’re also going to love how we cooked deer tenderloin. It’s similar to the cooking process, and it uses up that venison that you may have in the freezer. Or, a classic Southern staple, this Southern Fried Chicken is always another great choice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: More than likely, you have most, if not all, of the ingredients on hand to make the perfect pork chop. If not, the ingredients can easily be found at most grocery stores.
  • Marinade: Some recipes don’t call for a pork chop marinade but this one does! The seasoned buttermilk will help tenderize the meat and help flavor it more.
  • Classic Southern food: A deep-fried comfort dish, these delicious southern fried pork chops will soon become a family favorite.

Ingredients Needed

With the ingredients being simple and easy, there’s not much to say about what’s required, however, we’ve touched on a few notes and tips below that can be helpful!

Labeled ingredients for southern fried pork chops.
  • Pork Chops – For this recipe, we like to use bone-in pork chops, the same as in this broiled pork chops recipe. We typically use 4 pork chops, although if they’re really small, you can get by with 6, with the ingredients. You may get less meat when choosing bone-in but you’ll have more flavor when choosing bone-in. If you have boneless pork chops, this creamy crock pot pork chop recipe is delicious too!

    For complete temperature and timing guidance, see our full guide on how to cook pork chops in the oven.
  • Red Pepper Flakes & Chili Powder – You can leave these out if you prefer but they add a bit of a kick, which is delicious in this type of recipe.
  • Flour – Use all-purpose flour for this recipe.

Substitutions

If you find that substituting is necessary, or desired, here are some suggestions that can help:

  • Pork Chops – You could use boneless pork chops if you would like, however, they will cook a little more quickly. If you prefer to use thick-cut pork chops, instead of storebought thin pork chops, they will take longer to cook and you might find that your breading starts to brown a bit too much (bordering on burning) before the pork chops are cooked all the way through. If you choose to go with thick-cut pork chops, I suggest using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F. 
  • Oil – Feel free to use canola oil or peanut oil instead of vegetable oil.
  • Paprika - Smoked paprika will also do the trick and will add a nice smokiness to the dish. 

Oven Fried Pork Chops Option:

Baking the pork chops in the oven is an option if you prefer it. Here’s how:

  • Oven-Baked Fried Pork Chops – You could also make these pork chops in the oven. Arrange the dredged pork chops in a single layer on a wire rack set above a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. 

For complete temperature and timing guidance, see our full guide on how to cook pork chops in the oven.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls 
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk 
  • Wire rack 
  • Skillet – Wee used a 12-inch skillet. You could use a larger or a smaller one. Just make sure you have 1 inch of oil filling it for proper frying. One benefit of using a larger pan is that you won't have to fry in as many batches to avoid crowding the oil. 
  • Candy thermometer (optional, but recommended) 
  • Tongs 

How to Make Fried Pork Chops

Making these southern-fried pork chops is easy but there are three steps to make these one of your favorite pork chop recipes:

  • marinating the pork chops
  • coating the pork chops in the seasoned flour mixture
  • frying the pork chops in the hot oil

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Steps 1-4 of how to make Southern fried pork chops with flour batter.
  1. Make the marinade. Whisk together the buttermilk, salt, pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and paprika in a bowl. 
  2. Marinate. Add the pork to the bowl with the buttermilk mixture, making sure to coat the meat in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 2-4 hours.
  3. Make the Breading. Whisk together the four, red pepper flakes, chili powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. 
  4. Dredge. Dredge the sides of the pork chops in the flour mixture, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly, and arrange the pieces on a wire rack until you are ready to fry. 
Pork chop being fried in skillet, with black tongs flipping it.
  1. Heat the oil. Pour the oil into a large skillet (you should have about 1-inch of oil). Heat the oil over medium heat, to medium-high heat (don’t want to get it too hot, so make sure it gets to 350-360°F – I recommend using a candy thermometer to check the temperature). 
  2. Fry. Fry the pork for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden brown. Transfer the fried pork to a plate lined with paper towels. Be careful not to crowd the pan here folks. If you need to fry the pork in batches, do so by adding the remaining pork chops to the oil. Just be sure to bring the oil back to temperature between batches.
Cooked fried pork chop on black cooling rack.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make pork chops ahead of time and freeze them?

You can. Place the marinading pork chops in a freezer-safe airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge, prepare the breading, dredge, and fry. 

How to make pork chops tender when frying?

Being careful not to overcook them is one way to keep them tender. Marinating them in buttermilk is another way to keep them tender.

How do you keep breading on fried pork chops?

Soaking the pork chops in buttermilk will help secure the breading on to the pork chops.

Cooked fried pork chop on white plate.

Storage

  • Refrigerator. Once the pork chops have cooled to room temperature, seal the leftover pork chops in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. 
  • Freezer. Allow the leftover fried pork chops to cool completely before sealing them in a freezer-safe airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before reheating. (Do note that the breading for these pork chops is prone to falling off upon thawing. They will still taste delicious, though!)
  • To reheat. Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. 
Fork cutting out a bite from cooked Southern fried pork chop.

Brown Fried Pork Chop Gravy:

If you prefer a white gravy, you can follow our white gravy recipe but use pork drippings instead of bacon grease.

What you’ll need for brown, pork chop gravy:

  • 4 tablespoon of reserved seasoned flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon reserved pork drippings/oil
Image collage showing how to make fried pork chop gravy in 4 steps.

If you love gravy on your pork chops, there’s a delicious pork gravy you can make to go on top. Here’s how you can make it with the fried pork chop drippings:

  1. Make sure to reserve the extra seasoned flour that you used to coat the pork chops.
  2. Allow the oil to cool a bit, after frying the pork chops, and then reserve about a tablespoon of oil and fried pork bits. (TIP: I will pour the oil in to another dish, and use a mesh strainer to capture the pork bits, and place back in my skillet.)
  3. Turn the burner to low and pour in one cup of beef broth. Allow this to warm through for a couple of minutes. (You don’t want this to be too hot when adding the remaining ingredients, so the cold/cooler broth and flour won’t curdle when adding.)
  4. Next, mix together 4 Tablespoons of the reserved seasoned flour (or new flour if you’ve ran out), with one cup of beef broth. Whisk this together until blended and pour in to the broth that’s already warm in the skillet.
  5. Whisk this together, turn the heat up to medium, or medium-high heat, whisking constantly until thickened.

Usually, this gravy could still use some salt and pepper since we’ve added broth. Feel free to add salt and pepper to your taste preference. Or, we’ve also shared a pork gravy recipe that is a bit different for some zing. Love mushrooms in your gravy? This mushroom gravy on Salisbury steaks will be a recipe you’ll love too!

Southern fried pork chop topped with brown pork gravy, sitting on white plate.

More Southern Recipes You’ll Love

Whether you’re looking for more Southern side dishes or main dishes to add to your meal planner, we feel like you’re going to be a fan of these too:

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 southern fried pork chops on white plate, with a pork gravy poured on top.
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5 from 5 votes

Southern Fried Pork Chops

These Southern fried pork chops are made with simple ingredients, marinated in buttermilk, and so juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinade Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 447kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1½ teaspoons garlic powder divided
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder divided
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 4-6 bone-in pork chops
  • 1 cup flour
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • Vegetable oil Enough for 1-inch in the skillet

Optional Pork Chop Gravy

  • 4 Tablespoons reserved seasoned flour from breading pork chops
  • 1 Tablespoon reserved pork drippings/oil
  • 2 cups beef broth chicken or vegetable will work too

Instructions

  • Make the marinade. Whisk together the buttermilk, salt, pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and paprika in a bowl. 
  • Marinade. Add the pork to the bowl with the buttermilk mixture, making sure to coat the meat in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 2-4 hours.
  • Make the breading. Whisk together the flour, red pepper flakes, chili powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. 
  • Dredge. Dredge the pork in the flour mixture, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly, and arrange the pieces on a wire rack until you are ready to fry. 
  • Heat the oil. Pour the oil into a skillet (you should have about 1-inch of oil). Heat the oil to 350-360°F (I recommend using a candy thermometer to check the temperature). 
  • Fry. Fry the pork for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Transfer the fried pork to a plate lined with a paper towel. Be careful not to crowd the pan here folks. If you need to fry the pork in batches, do so. Just be sure to bring the oil back to temperature between batches.

Optional Pork Chop Gravy

  • Reserve flour. Make sure to reserve the extra seasoned flour that you used to coat the pork chops.
  • Save drippings. Allow the oil to cool a bit, after frying the pork chops, and then reserve about a tablespoon of oil and fried pork bits and leave in the skillet. (TIP: I will pour the oil in to another dish, and use a mesh strainer to capture the pork bits, and place back in my skillet.)
  • Add 1 cup broth. Turn the burner to low and pour in one cup of beef broth. Allow this to warm through for a couple of minutes. (You don't want this to be too hot when adding the remaining ingredients, so the cold/cooler broth and flour won't curdle when adding.)
  • Mix. Next, mix together 4 Tablespoons of the reserved seasoned flour (or new flour if you've ran out), with one cup of beef broth. Whisk this together until blended, and then pour in to the broth that's already warm in the skillet.
  • Whisk. Whisk this together, turn the heat up to medium, or medium-high heat, whisking constantly until thickened. Pour over cooked pork chops.
    TIP: Usually, this gravy could still use some salt and pepper since we've added broth. Feel free to add salt and pepper to your taste preference.

Notes

For Oven Baked Pork Chops: Arrange the dredged pork chops in a single layer on a wire rack set above a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1porkchop | Calories: 447kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 124mg | Sodium: 1038mg | Potassium: 733mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 382IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 3mg

Turning a Crib in to a Dressing Room- Let’s Play Dress-Up!

My sister and her husband are the most creative people that I know. With her creative brain, and his mad handy-man skillzzz… the two of them together, blow my mind.

If you saw the crawfish boil party that I had for my son, you already know how awesome my sister and brother-in-law are. Seriously… go look if you haven’t —-> Crawfish Boil Party

Turning a Crib in to a Dressing Room

I can’t exactly remember how the conversation came up, but when I found out that my sister and her husband took a crib, and transformed it in to a “dress-up,” area for my toddler niece… I told her that I HAD to see a picture of that. {Mainly because I couldn’t picture in my head what in the heck that they were talking about.}

After they sent this first picture… I TOTALLY knew where they were going with it. How cool is this? But just wait…

Transform your crib in to a dressing room! Boy or girl, any kid would love this to dress up area to put their costumes on! https://fantabulosity.com

Second photo that I received…

{Isn’t that adorable? You can tell that my niece couldn’t WAIT to start hanging up her princess dresses.}

So do you see what they did there? They used the “spring,” part of the crib, as a place to hang the dresses and play clothes. BRILLIANT.

But just wait…

Transform your crib in to a kids dressing room! Boy or Girl, any kid would love this! https://fantabulosity.com

Umm…. Yeah. They told me that it’s still not finished {mainly because I think they are just perfectionists}, but I am FLABBERGASTED at how fabulous this turned out.

{Ahem… I bought the pink net for my niece for Christmas. Hey… I had to get a little credit for something in this DIY project, right? Ok ok… my sister even told me to buy that for her.}

Turn your crib in to a dress up, dressing room! https://fantabulosity.com

So as you can see, by the perfect little model herself… she LOVES how this dressing room turned out.

I SERIOUSLY want one of these in my room. I wonder if my sister and her husband can turn my bed in to a dressing room? Here guys… here’s a tour of my master bedroom

take a look and see what you can come up with —-> Master Bedroom Tour  😉

Turn your crib in to a dress up, dressing room! https://fantabulosity.com

Now you KNOW this DIY project doesn’t have to be just for girls. My sons would LOVE this, so they could put their superman and batman costumes on… anytime that they want.

 Are you dying to know how they did this transformation?  Let me know in the comments below, and I may be able to sweet talk them in to telling us… 😉

Pin it like a crazy person:

Turn your crib in to a dressing room! Boy or Girl, any kid would love this for their costumes! https://fantabulosity.com

Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

This Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich takes your classic pb&j recipe to the next level. The outside is golden brown, and inside the two slices of bread is gooey peanut butter combined with warm jelly.

Made like a grilled cheese sandwich (and our chicken grilled cheese) it’s cooked on the stovetop over medium-low heat, to get the crispy bread. It’s the perfect easy lunch idea or even a warm breakfast recipe.

Fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich on a white plate.
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We all love the pb&j from childhood, and now, with this method, you can still have the famous sandwich but with a twist, with a delicious, buttery coating.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

  • Crispy & Creamy: The texture of this sandwich is completely different than simply spreading peanut butter and jelly on two pieces of bread. The golden, crispy, outside texture combines perfectly with the inside, creamy texture.
  • Restaurant Style: If you ever watch shows that feature fun and different recipes, this fried peanut butter & jelly feels like something you’d find at a “must-visit” diner.
  • Ready in minutes: With a regular pb&j only taking a few minutes, don’t be intimidated by the extra step of frying or grilling! It will only take a few minutes to cook the sandwich on both sides.
Sliced friend peanut butter and jelly sandwich on white plate, surrounded by milk jars and strawberries.

Fried PB&J Ingredients & Variations

The beautiful thing about this sandwich is that you can use your favorite ingredients that you love using to make a peanut butter and jelly, and then add one more ingredient (butter).

Ingredients for fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
  • Bread – There are so many options for bread. Brioche, sliced white bread, wheat, or your favorite sandwich bread.
  • Peanut Butter – Crunchy or creamy, or even a substitute like Nutella or your favorite nut butter will work too.
  • Jelly – Strawberry or grape jelly work, or you can even use your favorite flavor of jam.
  • Butter – Using spreadable butter is recommended so it slides across the bread easier. Or, if you have stick butter, melt it gently to make it smooth to spread easier. Salted butter is a great option because it adds that hint of salt with all of the sweetness.

How to Make a Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Steps 1-4 image collage of how to make a friend peanut butter and jelly.
  1. Add Peanut Butter – Spread peanut butter on one side, of one slice of bread.
  2. Spread Jelly – Then, spread jelly on one side, of the other slice of bread.
  3. Butter the Bread – Place the coated sides of the bread together, so they form a classic pb&j. Next, coat the outside of both sides of the sandwich, with butter and place on a skillet, and cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes or until the side facing down, is a golden brown.
  4. Toast the Bread – Flip once golden, and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve!
Fried, whole, peanut butter and jelly sandwich on white plate.

Tip: Sprinkle with a little powdered sugar if desired for an extra sweet treat.

Sliced fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich on white plate.

Recipe Pro Tips

  • Multiple Sandwiches – If making multiple sandwiches, make as many sandwiches as you need, up until the point of adding them to a skillet. Using a griddle (a much larger cooking surface) place all of the assembled sandwiches on the griddle at the same time, in a single layer, to cook them at the same time. This way, you’re not making one at a time, which can be time-consuming.
  • Fun Additions. Love bananas on your peanut butter sandwich? Slice bananas to place on the peanut butter, or add other fun items like marshmallow fluff or honey or syrup like in our peanut butter and syrup sandwich, bacon, or even sprinkles!

Recipe FAQs

Should peanut butter and jelly sandwiches be toasted?

They don’t have to be but they’re delicious when toasted. But frying them in a pan is ideal, rather than using a toaster because the jelly and peanut butter can melt out.

What is the best bread for PB&J?

We think sliced white bread is the best for pb&j but brioche is a delicious option too.

Do you use smooth or crunchy peanut butter in PBJ?

This is a personal preference, however, crunch peanut butter can make the sandwich “unbalanced” so the bread can slip around more, due to the nuts.

Is jam or jelly better for PB&J?

Either one works but jam will slide on more smooth, as jelly can be a little “bumpy” causing the bread to slide around a little more.

More Sandwich Recipes

If you love classic sandwiches and fun recipes to make for lunch, you’ll love these reader favorites too:

Recipe

Fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich, sliced on white plate.
Print Pin
5 from 7 votes

Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

A fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich is your classic pb&j, cooked on the stovetop with butter, giving it a crispy outside with a warm and gooey inside.
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 1 sandwich
Calories 326kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 slices bread Your favorite sliced sandwich bread
  • 1 ½ Tablespoon peanut butter smooth or crunchy
  • 1 ½ Tablespoon jelly or jam
  • 1 Tablespoon butter

Instructions

  • Add Peanut Butter – Spread peanut butter on one side, of one slice of bread.
  • Spread Jelly – Then, spread jelly on one side, of the other slice of bread.
  • Butter the Bread – Place the coated sides of the bread together, so they form a classic pb&j. Next, coat the outside of both sides of the sandwich, with butter and place on a skillet, and cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes or until the side facing down, is a golden brown.
  • Toast the Bread – Flip once golden, and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve!

Notes

Multiple Sandwiches – If making multiple sandwiches, make as many sandwiches as you need, up until the point of adding them to a skillet. Using a griddle (a much larger cooking surface) place all of the assembled sandwiches on the griddle at the same time, in a single layer, to cook them at the same time. This way, you’re not making one at a time, which can be time-consuming.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwich | Calories: 326kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 430mg | Potassium: 153mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 0.9mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 2mg

On the Farm with Paw Paw

 My boys love… I mean… LUUUUV… hanging out with their paw paw. Hanging out with their paw paw means there are TONS of fun things in store.

You see, “Paw Paw,” lives (and operates) a beef farm, and a short trip to see him, usually includes seeing big, four-legged creatures that say “moo,” a tractor ride, and a “wade,” in the spring.

Sharing a Coke, with the guys

So the other day, we set out on an adventure and headed to Paw-Paw’s with a surprise in store for him. A Coke. It’s his favorite and we knew it would make his day.

In his own words:

I drink a Coke every morning for breakfast. There’s nothin’ better.

Share a Coke 6pk

When we arrived at his house, as always… he was working outside. (He’s the hardest worker I know.)

Pulling in the drive, my boys shouted with excitement,

There he is! There’s Paw Paw!

Share a Coke with Paw Paw

Farming + Grandkids + Coke = Paw Paw’s Day is Made

Up on the tractor they went, handed Paw Paw his Coke, and “Mom” was no longer there. Who needs mom when you have your paw paw, and a farm anyway, right?

Share a Coke on the tractor

I sat back quietly as the boys went about their business, and got the “work,” done.

There is something absolutely heart-melting, watching your own kids, “light-up,” when they’re spending time with someone that makes you “light-up,” too.

Let’s go boys, time to feed the bulls…

Down on the Farm - Share a Coke
Share a Coke on the farm fantabulosity.com

I forget how little they are until I see ’em like this. Such precious babies they are. 

My dad’s big “pet,” he calls it… this bull did NOT get the memo of the photoshoot. I mean… he could have taken a dip in the creek or something before I came.

Bull! Share a Coke
Share a Coke -Bulls

Break Time

You know, that farmin’ is hard work. It was time to take a break, and head to the creek and grab a drink…(and skip a rock or two).

Sharing a Coke with Grandpa https://fantabulosity.com

No words needed… (insert this momma’s heart-melting).

Grandpa Sharing a Coke https://fantabulosity.com

Sharing a Coke with Grandpa… it just tastes better. Apparently.

Sharing a Coke with Grandpa at the Creek

Although we’ve made this trip to Paw Paw’s, a thousand and twenty-three times,  (ok not that many surely) I’ve never just grabbed my camera to capture memories of it. I’m so incredibly thankful for these simple moments that we tend to take for granted.

Share a Coke, Cowboy Boots

But now… it’s time for Mommy to enjoy hers. 😉

Share a Coke - Jessica

Until next time,

XO!

5 Simple Ways to Make Your Husband “WANT” to Come Home…

WHEW! There are some brutal people out there! Ever since I published this post, it has gone crazy viral and some of you are NOT afraid to speak your mind. So I feel I must explain my intentions with this post, to explain where I’m coming from.

My husband is very good to me, and does extremely nice things for me. So in return, and out of respect, I like to do nice things for him.

how can I make my husband come home
My husband and my sweet babies!

Have you ever heard someone say,

Be the wife your husband can’t wait to come home to at night?

No? Yes? I’ve heard it a million times, and I always try to keep advice in my head. As I would hope my husband would think the visa versa. Right?

So I began to think,

What are some things that he would love, to really make him feel special?

and this post was born.

No people, I’m not saying rewind 60 years and be a Stepford Wife. I’m just saying what I like to do for my husband to show my appreciation, and I would very well expect respect in return. Right?

So let’s carry on with this post, and maybe all of the bullies will stop “hating,” on this post. If not… sorry. This is something that works well in my marriage, and I hope it can give someone else great ideas too! If not, I’d LOVE to hear what works in your marriage. Every marriage is different.

You May Also Love This Marriage Talk:

Back to the post:

It may be a husband who is in the military and is coming home after a year stay overseas, a husband that has only been gone for 3 days, or a husband that is coming home after a long day at work.

  (P.S. You gals that have husbands gone for a super long time, I COMPLETELY adore your strength.)

how can I make my husband come home

A little behind the scenes…

My husband owns his own company, and like many other professions, those days as a CEO of a large company, can be excruciating. There’s nothing more that I want to do when he comes home, than to show him my appreciation for working hard. Don’t hear what I’m not saying. I’m not saying I don’t work hard.

I’m a stay at home mom, and I run and operate THIS… my blog. But I AM saying that I want to make our home a place that he’s excited to come home to, every night. ESPECIALLY when he’s been gone for a few days.

5 Simple Ways to Make Your Husband Want to Come Home https://fantabulosity.com

How to Make Your Husband WANT to Come Home:

So how do I do this so-called, “making him happy to come home,” thang?

Just don’t ask my husband, because he may tell you different. Haha! Kidding. Only kidding.

make your hubby want to come home

  • His love language.


    Every husband is different. If you read my post on the secret to a marriage, then you know that everyone has their “language,” that speaks to their heart. (Some husbands, may have more than one.) Read up on what your husbands love language is, and think about something that would fulfill that language that he speaks! 😉  You can buy the book “The Five Love Languages” HERE!


  • Be positive.


    Yes, I know real-life happens, and sometimes life throws us some curveballs. The kids were acting awful, the lawn-mower chucked a rock at the dining room window, or the bank account is in the red because it’s been a rough month. But keeping a positive attitude when he walks through that door, can really help for the later part in the evening when it’s time to have a conversation about the not-so-fun things. So when he walks through the door, maybe wait just a bit before you throw up all of the “uglies” at him.

How to Prepare for Your Husband Coming Home https://fantabulosity.com
Don’t forget to make each other laugh. Him and I dressed up for the Def Leppard concert, a few years ago. You’re never too old to have fun. 😉

  • Send him love notes.


    Once a day, I will try to remember to send him a love note, through text. Yeah yeah yeah… I could get up early, write him a sweet note, and stick it in his coffee cup sleeve… but that’s not going to happen. So when breakfast is over, the kids are playing on their own, I’ll send my hubby a little love note, through a text. “How did I get so lucky to deserve you?” Or something like, “I can’t wait to see you when you get home.” That little “surprise” with something nice can really make his day.


  • Ask him.


     In the evening after the kids are off to bed, many times, I’ll ask him:

I’m grabbing something to drink, do you want something?

Or before he leaves for work, I may ask him:

I’m pretty free today. Is there anything you need help with?

Not only are you doing something nice for him by offering to help him… you may also figure out some of the types of things he likes for you to do for him. He may say something like:

You wouldn’t have time to take my truck for an oil change would you? Or I’ll have to take it on Saturday, and miss the little guy’s soccer game.

What?! Who knew? I thought he liked getting out of the house on Saturday mornings by himself to get the oil changed.

5 Simple Ways to Make Your Husband Want to Come Home https://fantabulosity.com
Our beach wedding, back in 2008

  • Get fancy-schmancy.


     Now Mom, (my mom), you may want to stop reading here. I may say some things that you don’t want to read or know about your daughter.

    (Mom… you’re still reading aren’t you? You’re such a rebel.)

    As a mom, I’m usually jumping in the shower as quick as I can, while my kids sit in the bathroom floor. So tending to my female upkeep, can be considered a rare and special occasion. 🙂  Shave those legs. Don’t forget the armpits, and whatever else you shave. Paint those toe-nails. Put on that lotion that’s supposed entice your hubby in to the sheets. (But like he needs a lotion from Victoria Secret to put him in the mood.) Put on that “Woah Baby,” outfit you bought at the mall a year ago that you’ve been dreading, putting on. And surprise him with a raring and ready to go attitude. Every man may be different, but I have a feeling most would appreciate this one. 😉

Wrap Up.

I so hope I didn’t offend you, but rather give you some ideas to try and show your husband that you love and care for him. I’d love to hear what you think below! But please remember, I’m human. I’m not a computer. So although I want you to be honest, I would love for you to also be kind. XOXO

5 Ways to Prepare for a Romantic Weekend with Your Husband https://fantabulosity.com

Just remember…”Be the woman your husband can’t wait to come home to.”

creating your happy



As a mom, wife, sister, friend, employee, boss, and whatever else society calls you… we sometimes need to be reminded what it is that makes us happy, so we can fulfill our duties with the best intentions and the way we choose and want.

DISCLAIMER from the owner/founder: “I fail each day, trying to be the “best,” mom, wife, sister, and friend. But if I can be intentional & recognize one LITTLE thing that I accomplished that day… I can be “happy,” with that, and should celebrate it.”

5 Simple Ways to Make Your Husband Want to Come Home https://fantabulosity.com

Happy “Pops” Day! Father’s Day Gift Idea

I have been in a “gifting,” mood all week, and although that sounds really good… it’s only because I’ve been putting off getting TONS of gifts that I have been needing to get for a while now, and I’m finally getting around to it.

With Father’s Day right around the corner, I knew that I better get on the ball, since I was “gifting,” anyway. 🙂

We have a friend that has recently become a new “dad,” and I wanted to get him something that I had seen on Pinterest, so when I was planning his gift, it hit me…

Why can’t I just do the same thing for my dad?

Happy “Pops” Day Gift Basket

Happy Pops Day! Father's Day Gift Idea! https://fantabulosity.com

How fun is THAT!? Everything in the basket has the word “Pop,” in it. It’s full of fabulous snacks and goodies for the “Pop,” in your life. Best part? I don’t know ANY man that wouldn’t love this. Especially one that’s hard to shop for! 😉

So here’s what I did:

  • I grabbed a crate at the store, rather than a basket. {Yes, I called it a gift basket anyway}  A crate just seemed more manly than a basket. Here’s a milk crate that I found, that I like even better than the one I used: Milk Crate
  • I actually used a baby receiving blanket to line the crate (only because I had an extra one left over from the baby gift that I was also doing. But you could use a dish towel if you wanted. Or any type of material. I just think material looks better than tissue paper.}
  • I printed off this Happy “Pops” Day gift tag {Yes, it’s a free printable for you!}  🙂  Just make sure you “size,” it when you’re getting ready to print, depending on how big or little you want it… depending on what size your basket or crate is.
  • Then I punched holes in the tag, and simply tied a white ribbon through it, and tied it around the crate.

Gift Basket Contents:

 Kellogg’s Pops Cereal
Quaker Popped Chips
Pop Secret Popcorn
A bottle of Coke “Pop”
Pop-Tarts
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin Mix
Pop Rocks Candy
Happy Pops Day! Father's Day Gift Idea with free printable! Love this! https://fantabulosity.com

Our kiddos have also made this Father’s Day fingerpainting craft too, and their daddy loved it!

I hope this has solved all of your Father’s Day gift idea woes, and you now know what to do for the father in your life!

P.S. It was sooo fun going through the store trying to find all of the “pop,” items. Turn this in to a game, and take the kids with you on a scavenger hunt, looking for all they can find. You’ll be surprised how much is available!

Until next time,

XO!

Box of Sunshine Gift Ideas

A Little Box of Sunshine Gift Ideas: A sunshine box is a fun gift to not only give, but to put together! Go on a hunt for all things yellow, and surprise someone special with the gift basket!

By FAR, my favorite “go-to,” gift right now.

I couldn’t WAIT to share my Box of Sunshine gift ideas with you. Why? Because not only is this gift absolutely fabulous for ANYONE that you know, I had a blast shopping for it!

Sunshine Gift Basket Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

More Gift Basket Ideas

What is a Sunshine Box?

A care package created with items that are the color “yellow” to bring the color of “sunshine” to someone’s day!

How to Make a Sunshine Box?

You can choose to make it many different ways but they typically are made using boxes, baskets, gift bags or even mason jars!

What do you put in a box of sunshine?

Items that are yellow! For example, gum, candy, lotion, candles, stationery, perfume, snacks, and whatever else you think he/she will love! See below for a long list of ideas that are yellow!

Edible "Sunshine" Gift Ideas (Easy Food Additions)

If you want to make something for you gift, here are some ideas to help you get started:

Little Box of Sunshine Item Ideas

When you’re on a scavenger hunt through the store, looking for “yellow,” it just makes shopping a bit more fun. (But like I need “more fun” when shopping.)

When I saw the original idea on Pinterest, ahem, we should totally follow each other by the way —> My Pinterest, I fell in love. BUT… I noticed that most of them were only for people that needed “cheering up.”

I thought, “Well, I’d love to receive one of those sunshine boxes, as a ‘just because,’ ‘thank you,’ or a ‘birthday gift.” I mean… wouldn’t you? So… I just made the tags to say, “Hello Sunshine,” instead of “You are my sunshine,” or “Let me Brighten up your day.”

Two Gift Basket Ideas

 So let me tell you what I did with these two Boxes of Sunshine gifts…

I had a couple of people to “thank,” and I just knew that they would LOVE LOVE LOVE, something like this. Even though they are two different people, who love different things, they’d BOTH love something like this sunshine gift box.

A BIG “thank you.”

Someone that works in my husband’s office did an amazing job on a project recently, and he wanted to “thank them,” in a BIG way. So although the sunshine gift box can run on the “affordable gift,” side… I could easily add something to it. Stay tuned for what that was below…

Sunshine Gift Basket Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

Here’s how I put this one together, and what I put in it:

Wooden Crate: I bought this at H&M, and although I don’t think they have it anymore, they have some SUPER cute other boxes and bins in their “home,” section.

Crate Contents:

  • Yellow/White Dishtowel
  • Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate & Caramel Squares
  • “Good Morning Sunshine,” Mug from Pier 1
  • Juicy Fruit Gum
  • Yellow Nail Polish (I bought mine off of Amazon)
  • Butterfinger Candy Bar
  • Bar of Soap from Pier 1
  • Golden Oreos
  • Izze Sparkling Peach Soda
  • Kleenex’s
  • Personalized Stationery
  • Keebler Cookies
  • Peanut M&M’s
  • “I Love Lemon,” tea
  • Small bag of Lay’s potato chips
  • Sephora gift card (that I attached to yellow scrapbook paper)
Sunshine Gift Basket Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

Arranging the Gift Basket:

I lined the box with the dishtowel and just arranged the goodies the best way I could, so each item was showing. This took a little “stuffing,” and “fill,” per-say, to lift items “up,” and keep them tilted to one side.

Hello Sunshine Gift Basket with gift card https://fantabulosity.com

How I added the “BIG,” thank you: So I needed to add a little more “thanks,” to really show her how thankful we were for her hard work.

To add some “umph,” to this gift, I simply found a gift card to somewhere that I knew she’d like, (The Sephora gift card), and simply just “up’d” the value of the gift by making it the value that we wanted to spend on her gift. Since it was “black,” I taped it to a yellow piece of scrapbook paper. (I also attached the receipt showing the balance of the gift card, to the back of the scrapbook paper, in case she runs in to any trouble at the store, trying to redeem it.)

A little personal touch…

To add a little more “thought,” to the gift, adding personalized stationery, is the perfect touch. See that “R,” back there in the back? Yeah.. that’s the stationary.

Hello Sunshine Gift Basket personalized stationary https://fantabulosity.com

Gift Tag Free Printable:

Hello Sunshine Gift Tag for basket! https://fantabulosity.com
Hello Sunshine Gift Tag for basket! https://fantabulosity.com

Gift Tag: I actually used my silhouette machine for the tags on these sunshine boxes, but realized that not everyone has one. So to help you all out, I created a little something below for you, and you can simply just “cut,” it out. 🙂

Get the free printable here: “Hello Sunshine”  Then, just tape it on the crate/basket/box, and you’re good to go!

"Hello Sunshine" free printable https://fantabulosity.com

 

A Pail of Sunshine:

 A bit smaller, as a simple “thank you.”

We had a friend help us out the other day, just out of the kindness of her heart. She doesn’t realize it, but she came to our rescue, for sure. So to let her know that it didn’t go unnoticed, I wanted to do a little something for her. A box of sunshine was a must.

Sunshine Gift Pail Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

This gift had almost all of the contents as the one above, but the pail just wasn’t big enough for everything. Or it would have…

Oddly enough, this person had the same initial that I used for the other one above, so I had to order an “R,” for that one too. Talk about craziness…

Sunshine Gift Pail Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

Big Tip Reveal: How to Make a Gift Basket look fabulous:

Did you notice that I took almost everything that I could, out of its packaging? The stationery for instance, came with the cards open, laying flat, wrapped in plastic wrap. Yuck! I opened the package, folded the cards, and tied them with a ribbon.

The mug came in a clear, plastic box. Yuck. I took that out.

So… long story short… take everything that you can, out of its packaging. It will make a HUGE difference in the overall “look,” of the gift.

Ahhhh… it feels so good to finally share this Box of Sunshine gift idea with you all. There’s nothing I love more than sharing “fab,” things with you. I just know some of you out there will find this idea helpful, and the perfect gift giving idea for your next “gifting,” reason. 🙂

Pin them for Later:

Sunshine Gift Basket or Box Ideas! fantabulosity.com
Sunshine Gift Ideas! Buckets, Box, Bags, anything woiuld work for this! Love it! https://fantabulosity.com

Baby Gift Basket

Baby Gift Basket Idea: For a boy or girl, this present will be perfect for the baby shower or just to give to the mom to be!

Recently, our friends had a baby (eeeeek… she’s so precious) and I wanted to put together a little something for them to show them a little love. And since I love sharing gift ideas with you, I knew I had to share this one too!

Now if you missed my “Box of Sunshine,” gift idea, or the “Happy Pops Day,” basket, don’t forget to go check those out. Hint: You’ll find my secret to making gift baskets look fabulous, in my “Box of Sunshine,” post!

Baby Gift Basket

When I’m putting together a gift basket for a new baby, I love using YELLOW! Why? Well, because yellow is so bright and cheery and this way it works for either a boy or a girl.

Plus, if they have another kiddo, they can use the yellow for the next baby that comes along too!

New Baby Gift Basket Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

Didn’t this turn out just adorable? Not because of me… but because EVERYTHING “baby,” is just adorable.

Need something fun for a baby shower? These printable parenting advice cards are so fun and a great alternative to a baby shower game.

Best Baskets for Gift Baskets:

I bought this basket a LOOONG time ago, for just this kind of thing. I love buying these, 3 or 4 at a time, to have on hand for gift giving. But I can’t even tell you where I got it. However, here are some of my favorite baskets:

World Market Gift Baskets

Pier 1 Gift Baskets

Amazon Wire Baskets

H&M Home

What to Put in a Baby Gift Basket?

Well you can put just about anything you like in a gift basket, but here are the items you’ll find in this one:

  • Size 2 Diapers (To grow in to. I stacked these in to the bottom, to “lift,” the other goodies, “up.”)
  • Receiving blankets – I rolled two in the back, and rolled one, for the front center, so the “owl” would add a little centerpiece
  • Snack cup (my favorite baby-snack must-have.
  • Teether (in the plastic case)
  • Baby shampoo/body wash
  • Rubber Ducky (because everyone needs one of those.)
  • Book
  • Sippy cup

Gift Basket Tip:

When building a gift basket, always try to stick with one “main,” color.

In this one, I decided to go with yellow. Of course there’s a little orange and pink in there too… but the big “wow,” is the yellow. I do this because then it all looks a little more uniform, rather than all over the place.

Free Printable Gift Tag: “Welcome Baby”

New Baby Gift Basket Idea with free printable https://fantabulosity.com

I have a fun surprise for you, to make your gift basket making a little easier!

When I designed my gift tag for this gift basket, I wanted to make it available to you, so you could use it.

Just print it, and cut it. You can either tape it on to your basket, or punch a hole in it like I did, and tie it with a ribbon. Get it here:

welcome baby gift basket free printable
Download “Welcome Baby” Gift Tag HERE!

I hope you have fun getting creative and building your New Baby Gift Basket! As always, let me know if you have any questions! I love hearing from you!

Until next time,

XO!

You’ll Also Love

Sangria Gift

What new mom and dad wouldn’t love a sangria kit to take the edge off of the really stressful days?!

Aw, how cool is this! DIY Gift Idea: Sangria for Friends, housewarming, for women, new neighbor, anyone! Who wouldn't love this!? They can even use the drink dispenser again and again!

Pin it for Later!

New Baby Gift Basket Ideas https://fantabulosity.com

More Gift Ideas

If you love making gift baskets or gifts in general, then you’ll LOVE browsing my gift ideas!

Hosting a Baby Shower?

If you’re the one with hosting duty, don’t miss the CUTEST ideas for baby showers and new moms here:

Easy Crab Bisque

Easy Crab Bisque: A not-so-gourmet, but tastes gourmet, bisque that you can make at home with real crab or imitation crab meat!

Easy Crab Bisque - in a white bowl, orange napkin

My Lobster Bisque recipe has gone a bit “viral,” on Pinterest these last few months, and I can understand why. It is ridiculously good.

So the other day when I went to make it again, I remembered that I had crab meat in the fridge that I needed to use instead.
It was a container that my husband found in the store that had diced, steam-cooked crab meat, ready to go, and we just knew we’d find something to make with it…

and I did…

More recipes you’ll love:

Easy Crab Bisque

I’ll be honest, over the years and being a food blogger in general… I’ve come across a lot of crab bisque recipes online but they look SUPER difficult to make and require a ton of ingredients.

Are they delicious? I’m sure they are. But if I’m going to spend an arm and a leg on dinner, I prefer to head out to a nice restaurant and have someone make it for me. Ammiright?

So when I decided to whip crab bisque up, I knew I wanted to keep things simple.

I’m so happy to say that this recipe was SO good, and I knew it had to make an appearance here on the blog because I know how much you all love a good, easy, recipe… and especially one that tastes like it took forever in the kitchen. (Especially this clam chowder soup recipe!)

How to Make Easy Crab Bisque

You can find the full recipe with ingredients and instructions at the bottom of this post!

Crab Bisque Ingredients

You can count on this being just like all of the other easy recipes here on Fantabulosity that use everyday ingredients.

This recipe uses: (see the recipe card below for the measurements and instructions!)

  • garlic cloves
  • petite diced tomatoes with juice
  • low sodium chicken broth (You could make my homemade chicken broth, and control the sodium.)
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • black pepper
  • crab meat (you can substitute with imitation like we do in this crab pasta bake, but we LOVE real crab meat if we have it)
  • heavy cream
  • flour & butter for a roux if you want a “thicker” bisque
  • fresh parsley chopped, optional

Easy, right? Odds are, you may even have most of the ingredients on hand anyway! That’s perfect for those of you that have crab on hand and you’ve found your way here by searching of a way to use it! Hopefully no need to head to the store before you make this!

How do you thicken crab bisque?

We’re a fan of making a roux to go in the crab bisque, to thicken it a little. And although “roux” sounds like a fancy word, it’s super easy, so don’t worry about that.

I recommend that you start with just a little because you can always add a little more here and there. So starting with about 2 tablespoons of flour and 2 tablespoons of butter, heat them together, stirring, until butter has melted all of the way and the two are mixed evenly.

Next, add the flour/butter mixture to the bisque and let it sit 1-2 minutes until soup thickens.

Still not thick enough? Make another batch of roux and repeat until the bisque reaches it’s desired thickness!

What do you serve with crab bisque?

Our favorite side dish with ANY soup is the BEST Side Salad Recipe. It never disappoints and it compliments a dinner in one of the tastiest ways possible!

But other side dishes that go well with crab bisque too are:

Recipe

Quick Crab Bisque! Holy Moly this is good! https://fantabulosity.com
Print Pin
4.73 from 11 votes

Easy Crab Bisque

This soup recipe is super simple to make. Fresh crab in a tomato cream broth. Pair with warm bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 servings
Calories 287kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 2 14.5-ounce cans petite diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 32-ounce carton low sodium chicken broth
  • 1-2 Tablespoons Old Bay seasoning to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 16 ounces crab meat chopped (you can substitute with imitation but I recommend real crab meat)
  • 1 pint heavy cream

Optional Roux (if you prefer a thicker bisque):

  • 2 Tablespoons flour
  • 2 Tablespoons butter room temperature

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, add all ingredients, except crab meat heavy cream. Stir together to mix.
  • In a blender, pour ⅓ of the soup mixture, and blend for about 5 seconds. Pour into a soup pot.
  • Add another ⅓ of soup to the blender, and blend for 3 seconds. Empty into the soup pot.
  • Pour remaining unblended soup into the blender. Give one or two short pulses, just barely blending the soup. (you want each ⅓ to blend less and less for a better consistency.)
  • Pour remaining soup into the pot. Add the crab meat.
  • Cook soup over low-medium heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • After 45 minutes, stir in heavy cream.

Optional Roux (if you choose to omit, skip to last step):

  • Heat flour and butter in a small pan until mixed, and then add to bisque. Whisk together and let sit 1-2 minutes until soup thickens.
  • Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (2/8 recipe with roux) | Calories: 287kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 112mg | Sodium: 523mg | Potassium: 170mg | Vitamin A: 1140IU | Vitamin C: 6.9mg | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 0.7mg

P.S. I myself like a thicker bisque, so I make about 2 sets of roux to get it to the consistency that I like.

Can you freeze crab bisque?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers or make a double batch to freeze and enjoy later.

Freezing in freezer bags or mason jars are great options.
(Just note: when freezing in mason jars, be sure to let the soup cool down a bit and don’t crowd the jars in the freezer, as they’ll need a little room to expand as it freezes. You don’t want to have crab bisque all over the inside of the freezer!)

I so hope you enjoy this recipe and I’d love to hear in the comments below if you made it!

Pin it to Remember it:

Easy Crab Bisque! Holy Moly this is good! https://fantabulosity.com

Nautical Party Ideas (Birthday Theme, Food & Decorations)

If you're looking for nautical party ideas that are easy to pull together but still feel special, this theme is one of the most versatile options for birthdays, baby showers, or summer gatherings.

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, Boy or Girl! Navy Blue and White Dessert table! https://fantabulosity.com

Nautical Party Ideas (Simple + Easy to Recreate)

If you're planning a nautical-themed party, the key is keeping things simple, fun, and easy to pull together. Whether it's for a birthday, baby shower, or summer gathering, these ideas will help you create a cohesive look without overcomplicating things.

Last year, we hosted a Crawfish Boil party for his 3rd birthday, and this year… we finally decided on a theme about 3 weeks before the big day. My little guy went back and forth:

A “Dino-Thomas,” birthday party!

A “Superhero,” birthday!

I know! A Lego birthday party!

…there were a few more ideas in there, like a fireman birthday party, but he just couldn’t make up his mind.

(So I took matters in to my own hands.)

I knew he loved water, and with his birthday being in Summer, I knew “water,” was going to the theme. So a nautical birthday party it was! Update: 3 years later, this is STILL his favorite birthday party theme!

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas

It started out with designing a nautical invitation. (See how to create your own birthday party invites in Canva!) I created it, based on the “vision,” I had in my head of what I wanted the party to look like. (P.S. I blurred the bottom in this photo for privacy. )

Nautical Birthday Party Invitation! https://fantabulosity.com

Nautical Birthday Party Invitations

I printed the invites, rolled them up tight, taped them with nautical-anchor washi tape, and stuffed them in to little plastic bottles, for a message in a bottle invitation! I cut out little anchors with my silhouette machine, and tied them around the bottles with twine.

Nautical Birthday Party Invitation, Message in a bottle! So cute! https://fantabulosity.com
Nautical Birthday Party Invitation, Message in a bottle! So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

  

Delivering the Invites

Here’s the fun part! (Note: I’ll say that about 10 times I’m sure.)  Since we kept it a small play date, we didn’t have to send out a TON of invitations. So to add to the fun, and anticipation of the party, we hand delivered the message in a bottle invitations to his little friends!

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, Boy or Girl! fantabulosity.com-2

I promise I didn’t purposely put this anchor shirt on him to deliver the invites. But that worked out nice… 😉

So we didn’t bother the families on a Sunday afternoon, we just quietly placed the bottles on their porch steps, and I texted their mommies that they had a surprise waiting for them.

Nautical Birthday Party Invitation, Message in a bottle! So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

Party Time!

“Welcome to my Play Date”

If I’m able, I always like to make some sort of welcome sign, to let our guests know what door to come in. I tied the design of the invitations in our little welcome sign, to keep the theme rollin’. 😉

AHOY MATE! Welcome to my play date! https://fantabulosity.com

Nautical Party Favors

On the other side of the door, I put out little nautical beach bag favors, for the little guys and gals to grab on their way in.
The bags were full of bubbles, sunglasses, water balloons, tattoos, a little wooden fish the kids could paint, and more! 

DIY Tutorial: I purchased mine, but I don’t believe they’re available any more.
You could easily get plain small canvas bags, and iron on an anchor with a cutout of heat transfer material from your Silhouette machine, or just cut out an anchor, and stencil paint it on each bag. 🙂

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas! Favor Ideas! Beach bag full of summer fun items! https://fantabulosity.com-51

Pre & Post Play, Station

The last thing that you want your guests to do is worry about sunburns and bugs, at your outdoor party. To help the situation out a bit, I always try to provide the sunscreen and bug spray right at their fingertips to avoid any unnecessary troubles. I also wanted to have some towels handy, for the little guys playing in the water. Running in and out of the house, wet from the water games outside, can get cold in that air conditioning! 😉

Love this Pre-play & Post-play station! Sunblock, bug spray for when you're headed out to play in the water at the birthday party, and towels for when you're done! Brilliant! https://fantabulosity.com

Love this Pre-play & Post-play station! Sunblock, bug spray for when you're headed out to play in the water at the birthday party, and towels for when you're done! Brilliant! https://fantabulosity.com
Love this Pre-play & Post-play station! Sunblock, bug spray for when you're headed out to play in the water at the birthday party, and towels for when you're done! Brilliant! https://fantabulosity.com

  

Nautical Dessert Table – Sweets & Treats

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, Boy or Girl! Navy Blue and White Dessert table! https://fantabulosity.com-35

 

Navy and White Party Decor

I know I say it every time, but this is seriously my favorite party theme yet. I’ve always had a crush on a navy and white color scheme, so it was a no-brainer when the party planning went in to works.

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, Boy or Girl! Navy Blue and White Dessert table! https://fantabulosity.com

Food and Treats Tip:

After upteen parties that I have hosted, I’ve learned a valuable lesson. DON’T over do it on the treats. No… not for the reason that you think. It’s not the sugar highs, or the parents hating me because I’ve provided endless amounts of sugar for their kids… but rather:

THE KIDS DON’T EAT ALL OF IT!
Dead serious. Don’t get me wrong… they’ll eat a cupcake, a cookie, maybe some ice cream… but they are way too busy playing with friends, the new toys laying around etc., that most of them barely even make it to the dessert table more than once.

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas! Or a baby shower! https://fantabulosity.com
So this time, I kept it small (rather than the normal smorgasbord of goodies that I usually do.)

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, for a Boy or Girl! Navy and White dessert table! https://fantabulosity.com

  

Anchor Cookies

These cookies. OMG, can you BELIEVE how adorable these are!? Guess what… I found them on Etsy! Yes! Wooden It Be Sweet  has these in her shop, and she was MORE than accommodating with my needs! She shipped them to me, wrapped in the most precious little plastic bags, tied with twine.
I was able to send some of them home with guests since they were wrapped {as an addition to the party favors}, and I unwrapped a few for the dessert table.

Look how cute these are wrapped:

Nautical Cookies for baby shower, birthday party, favors, etc! So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

Cupcakes + Cupcake Toppers

I can’t shout it from the rooftops loud enough, how PERFECT these nautical cupcakes were from MAB Cupcakes.  Like a crazy person, I waited until the last minute to order cupcakes. (I don’t recommend it.)  But when I put a call in to order the cupcakes, I simply just asked for some white cupcakes. I didn’t expect what I received…

Anchor cupcake toppers!!! I did mention that it was for the nautical birthday party that I was hosting, and if they had anything navy blue in the shop they could throw on… I’d be forever grateful. You guys… THIS WAS THE RESULT…

Nautical Birthday Party cupcakes! OMG so adorable! https://fantabulosity.com

P.S. I found the wooden board at a local antique shop, and it worked perfect to line the cupcakes on.

Nautical Navy Blue and White Cupcakes! Perfect for a baby shower, or birthday party! https://fantabulosity.com

Blue Food??

I knew for the dessert table, I wanted to keep all of the food, white or navy blue. When I started to think of, “Blue food,” I’ll be honest… there wasn’t much out there. So I knew if I went to “white,” food, and just use Blue decor on the table, it should work out pretty well.

Mini Cheesecakes for navy blue and white party or baby shower. You'll faint when you find out how easy these are. This can't be. https://fantabulosity.com

What to Serve at a Nautical Party

Keeping the food simple and on-theme makes a big difference, especially for outdoor or kid-friendly parties.

Easy Party Foods

Fun Themed Treats

  • Anchor cookies
  • Blue and white desserts
  • Ice cream bar with toppings

Savory Snacks

  • Simple snack cart setup
  • Chips and easy finger foods

I went to one of my trusty desserts for parties (that’s simple and delish), the ready-to-eat cheesecake filling.

At my All White Christmas party a while back, I took this filling, and filled mini shooters with graham cracker layers. This time, I just grabbed some fillo shells and filled them with the cheesecake filling, and topped them with a couple of blueberries.
These would be soooo cute for a nautical baby shower too I must say!

Mini Cheesecakes for navy blue and white party or baby shower. You'll faint when you find out how easy these are. This can't be serious. https://fantabulosity.com

If you follow me on Facebook, you may have seen my little snapshot of my DIY process of making these. I was smitten with how cute they were looking. I found the idea on Pinterest, and cannot remember for the life of me who came up with this brilliant idea. If you know, please let me know! I’d love to link to them and give credit where credit is due!

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, milk bottles with lifesaver candy wrapped around them! So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

I just grabbed lifesavers, and tied them on to the twine, (kind of like when I made the DIY nautical candles) and wrapped it around the bottles. This DIY project went by in a flash.

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas. Milk bottles with life savers wrapped around the neck with twine! So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

White powdered donuts seem to always make an appearance on my dessert tables too. Mainly because I adore them. (Ahem… I mean my guests adore them.)

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas! White powdered donuts, so easy and cute! https://fantabulosity.com

I found cute little navy and white suckers before the party, and although I didn’t really have the “space,” for them, I did put a couple out on the table just to add a “sweet,” touch. 😉

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas! Blue and White suckers! https://fantabulosity.com

Make Your Own Ice Cream Bar

In another corner of the backyard, I created an ice cream bar. With the hot month of June, an ice cream on a hot summer day is a treat! Literally!

Ice Cream Bar for an outdoor summer birthday party https://fantabulosity.com

Ice Cream Toppings

I put out blueberries, strawberries, chocolate chips, gummy bears, and crushed up Oreos, for the little ones to get creative. TIP… set this table up in the yard or somewhere that you don’t mind getting dirty! It had potential to get messy. 😉

Ice Cream Bar for an outdoor summer birthday party https://fantabulosity.com

There was a variety of flavored syrups too, and they were able to choose between a waffle cone or bowl! The kids had a BLAST choosing which toppings they wanted. Ok ok… I did too.

Ice Cream Bar for an outdoor summer birthday party https://fantabulosity.com

Snack + Toy Cart – Finger Foods

I put up a little snack cart with chips, in case anyone got hungry and was missing a sweet tooth. Putting them in to canisters makes it look a little fancier than just a few chip bags laying around. This is where I also stored overflow of bubbles, sailor hats, and other little goodies.

Snack cart for a birthday party! Love how the chips are in canisters! https://fantabulosity.com

Kid Drinks

Since it was a kiddo party, I wanted to make sure we had plenty of kid-friendly drinks. Fruit Punch and water took up the main stage in my drink dispensers.

Drink Dispensers for a party, on a stand. So cute! https://fantabulosity.com
Drink Dispensers for a party, on a stand. So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

  

Not pictured: The adults may or may not have had an “adult beverage,” section too. 😉

Drink Dispensers for a party, on a stand. So cute! https://fantabulosity.com

Water Fun!

My boys and their little guests had a blast in the water. Water sprinklers, water balloons, and just tubs of water! Fun for hours.

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, Navy Blue and White! Perfect for boy or girl! fantabulosity.com-9

If you’re having a slumber party, make sure to check out these fun ideas for a boys slumber party, too!

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas, Navy Blue and White! Perfect for boy or girl! fantabulosity.com-9

I had such a good time designing this party. I already can’t wait for my other kiddos birthday this Fall. Let the ideas and designing begin!

Nautical Birthday Party Ideas! Party Planning Services! https://fantabulosity.com

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

This ice cream sandwich cake is different from others because of its special middle layer of smooth fudge and crunchy Oreos (similar to the Dairy Queen ice cream cake that we all love so much)! Note: Make sure to allow enough time for the cake to chill before serving! See more below. If you’re in a time crunch, you may prefer this peanut buster parfait!

If you saw my son’s Nautical Birthday party, then you probably noticed the ice cream bar that I incorporated. Ice cream is the perfect summer treat for a party or just as an easy dessert idea; not to mention an ice cream birthday party!

Post originally published in June 2015, and updated May 2023.

Slice of ice cream sandwich cake on white plate with cherries on top.

If you're looking for make-ahead desserts for sharing, take a look at my potluck dessert ideas.

No-bake desserts are a popular treat during the summer so you’re not heating up the kitchen. This ice cream sandwich cake is one that can be made easily (with enough time in advance) that everyone seems to love. If you don’t want to work with ice cream though, this no-bake strawberry icebox cake is a great option!

If you’re craving Oreo ice cream desserts but don’t have enough time to make a cake, you’ll also love this cookies and cream milkshake which uses similar ingredients.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Similar to Dairy Queen’s Ice Cream Cake: If you love the popular ice cream cake, but don’t want to try to make that extensive cake, this recipe is similar, using ice cream sandwiches to make it so much easier!
  • Crunchy cookie layer: An ice cream sandwich cake is delicious anyway but when you add the buttery, crispy Oreo cookie crumbs layer in the fudge layer, it takes it to a whole new level.
  • Kid-friendly recipe: If you love the kids helping you in the kitchen, this is the perfect recipe to have them get involved with. They’ll be so excited to see the progress of the steps, and of course, eat the finished result.

🧾 Ingredients Needed

The ingredients for this recipe are basic, and you should be able to find them at your local grocery store.

Labeled ingredients on counter for ice cream sandwich cake.
  • Ice cream – I had never been a fan of ice cream until I had a “good” ice cream. I would usually buy the off-brands until I had Tillamook, and now I’m hooked. But any good brand of chocolate ice cream will do!
  • Corn Syrup – The corn syrup is used to give that ganache/chocolate layer a shine and to help the crushed Oreo cookies stick to one another.
  • Butter – the butter helps toast the cookie crumbs in the oven, so they don’t get soggy in the ice cream cake, so they maintain their crunch.

📖 Substitutions

If you find that you need to substitute any ingredients because you don’t have them, or need to for dietary reasons, here are some suggestions that can help:

  • Butter – you can use salted or unsalted
  • Vanilla extract – this isn’t mandatory and you can leave this out if needed but if you have it, I highly recommend adding it to the ganache.
  • Toppings – we love crushing more Oreos (in larger pieces) to sprinkle on top but feel free to use other toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate syrup (or more ganache), chocolate chips, etc.
  • Chocolate ice cream – if you prefer vanilla or a different flavor of ice cream, you can substitute this for chocolate.
  • Cool Whip – you can make your own whipped cream if you prefer that over Cool Whip.

👩🏻‍🍳 How to Make an Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

There is a process to making this ice cream cake but it’s an easy process!

This is broken into 3 components:

  • make Oreo crunchies
  • prepare ganache
  • build ice cream cake

I suggest making the cookie crumbs and the ganache first, so they both have time to cool before adding to the ice cream cake layers. Then, set any extra Oreos aside for the topping if you’d like, or to even save them to make Chocolate Sandwich Cookie Pancakes tomorrow morning!

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Before starting: Preheat your oven to 350° F. and remove chocolate ice cream and Cool Whip from the freezer so it begins to soften slightly to make spreading easier.

Steps 1-4 for making ice cream sandwich cake.

STEP 1. Crush Oreos and add to butter. Crush about 10 Oreos, to get about 1 cup of crushed crumbs. In a small bowl, mix with melted butter (Image 1).

STEP 2. Bake cookie crumbs. Spread buttery Oreo crumbs on a baking sheet that’s covered with parchment paper and bake at 350 degrees for 6-7 minutes (Image 2).

STEP 3. Make ganache. In a small, microwavable bowl, add chocolate chips, corn syrup, and vanilla (Image 3).

STEP 4. Heat heavy cream. Next, warm your heavy cream until just boiling, and then pour over the chocolate chips. Allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes and then whisk until smooth, chocolate ganache forms (Image 4).

Tip: Allow the ganache to sit and cool while making the first layer of ice cream sandwiches and chocolate ice cream. If your ganache hardens, you can microwave it for about 30 seconds to smooth it out again.

Steps 5-8 how to make ice cream sandwich cake.

STEP 5. First layer. In a loaf pan, add parchment paper to completely cover the pan. (You want to do this so when the entire cake is frozen, it’s easy to pull up out of the pan, to slice.) Make sure the entire loaf pan is covered with paper before filling. Add 5 ice cream sandwiches on top of parchment paper (Image 5).

NOTE: Depending on the size of your loaf pan, you may want to trim your sandwiches to fit in the pan better, or you can scrunch them down to fit (this is what I do).

STEP 6. Add chocolate ice cream layer. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir chocolate ice cream until it is smooth enough to spread on top of the ice cream sandwiches, and then freeze loaf pan of ice cream for 20 minutes (Image 6).

STEP 7. Add ganache. Remove the loaf pan from the freezer and pour on cooled ganache on top of the chocolate ice cream, and then freeze for about 10 minutes. (Image 7).

STEP 8. Add crunchies. Sprinkle on the crushed, baked Oreo cookie crumbs on top of the fudgy layer and then freeze for 2 hours (Image 8).

Steps 9-11 for how to make ice cream cake.

STEP 9. Add 2nd ice cream sandwich layer. Next, add 5 more ice cream sandwiches on top of the crunchy cookie layer (Image 9).

STEP 10. Top with Cool Whip. Spread Cool Whip layer on top of the ice cream sandwiches (Image 10).

STEP 11. Garnish with Oreos. If desired, crush (in to small pieces) about 4-5 Oreo cookies and sprinkle on top of ice cream sandwich cake. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 3-4 hours (or overnight to be safe) until cake is fully frozen and thick enough to slice (Image 11).

Layered ice cream sandwiches with ice cream for an ice cream cake.

STEP 12. Slice and serve. Remove the cake from the loaf pan by grabbing parchment paper and lifting it out. Peel the parchment paper from the sides of the cake and slice.

Ice cream sandwich cake on white platter.

💭 Recipe Pro Tips

  • Warm knife. When the ice cream cake is so frozen, it helps to warm your knife under hot water before slicing. This makes slicing a lot easier.
  • Slice only at serving. Slice as needed, rather than slicing the entire cake at once. This will help keep the cake from thawing out too quickly and makes storing leftover cake easier.
Sliced ice cream cake sandwich on white plate with fork.

📋 Recipe FAQs

How do you store leftover ice cream cake?

Do not slice the cake until serving. This makes it easier to store. You can place the ice cream cake back in the parchment paper and back in to the loaf pan if desired. Or, you can wrap the cake in plastic wrap and place in the freezer. (Make sure it’s fully wrapped so if it does thaw a bit, it will not leak.)

Can you use chocolate ice cream sandwiches or different flavors of ice cream for ice cream cake?

Yes absolutely. Feel free to use your favorite flavors to mix things up in this recipe.

Bite of ice cream cake sandwich on fork.

🍰 More Summer Recipes You’ll Love

If you love no bake desserts like this one for the summer months, you’ll also love these reader favorites:

Recipe

Ice cream sandwich cake on white plate, with cherries on top.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

A no bake summer dessert recipe that uses ice cream sandwiches, chocolate ice cream, and has an incredibly layer of fudge and chocolate cookie crumbs!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Freeze Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 899kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • loaf pan
  • parchment paper
  • mixing bowls

Ingredients

  • 10 ice cream sandwiches
  • 24 ounces chocolate ice cream

Oreo Crunchy Layer

  • 10 Oreo cookies
  • 2 Tablespoons melted butter

Chocolate Ganache Layer

  • 3 Tablespoons corn syrup
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips
  • ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Topping

  • 8 ounces Cool Whip
  • 5 Oreo cookies
  • cherries if desired

Instructions

Prep:

  • Before starting: Preheat your oven to 350° F. and remove chocolate ice cream and Cool Whip from the freezer so it begins to soften slightly to make spreading easier.

Crunchy Cookie Layer:

  • Crush Oreos and add to butter. Crush about 10 Oreos, to get about 1 cup of crushed crumbs. In a small bowl, mix with melted butter.
  • Bake cookie crumbs. Spread buttery Oreo crumbs on a baking sheet that's covered with parchment paper and bake at 350 degrees for 6-7 minutes.

Make Ganache:

  • Make ganache. In a small, microwavable bowl, add chocolate chips, corn syrup, and vanilla.
  • Heat heavy cream. Next, warm your heavy cream until just boiling, and then pour over the chocolate chips. Allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes and then whisk until smooth, chocolate ganache forms.

Build Ice Cream Cake:

  • First layer. In a loaf pan, add parchment paper to completely cover the pan. (You want to do this so when the entire cake is frozen, it's easy to pull up out of the pan, to slice.) Make sure the entire loaf pan is covered with paper before filling. Add 5 ice cream sandwiches on top of parchment paper.
  • Add chocolate ice cream layer. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir chocolate ice cream until it is smooth enough to spread on top of the ice cream sandwiches, and then freeze loaf pan of ice cream for 20 minutes.
  • Add ganache. Remove the loaf pan from the freezer and pour on cooled ganache on top of the chocolate ice cream, and then freeze for about 10 minutes.
  • Add crunchies. Sprinkle on the crushed, baked Oreo cookie crumbs on top of the fudgy layer and then freeze for 2 hours.
  • Add 2nd ice cream sandwich layer. Next, add 5 more ice cream sandwiches on top of the crunchy cookie layer.
  • Top with Cool Whip. Spread Cool Whip layer on top of the ice cream sandwiches.
  • Garnish with Oreos. If desired, crush (in to small pieces) about 4-5 Oreo cookies and sprinkle on top of ice cream sandwich cake. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 3-4 hours (or overnight to be safe) until cake is fully frozen and thick enough to slice.
  • Slice and serve. Remove the cake from the loaf pan by grabbing parchment paper and lifting it out. Peel the parchment paper from the sides of the cake and slice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (⅛ cake) | Calories: 899kcal | Carbohydrates: 135g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 547mg | Potassium: 525mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 84g | Vitamin A: 577IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 4mg

DIY Boxed Lunch Ideas

I am SMITTEN with boxed lunch ideas. Anytime I see one on Pinterest, I have to pin it, because the options are ENDLESS. Birthday parties, Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, play dates, girls lunch, etc.

Grabbing a boxed lunch, is easy and convenient for your guests, as well as pretty precious too. 😉

You can even make a boxed lunch for your kiddos, for an afternoon picnic this Summer, like I sometimes do!

DIY Boxed Lunch Ideas

DIY Picnic Boxed Lunch Idea https://fantabulosity.com

These are incredibly easy, and is WAY better than grabbing the same ole cheeseburger at a fast food joint, in my kiddos (and my) opinion.

DIY Picnic Boxed Lunch Idea https://fantabulosity.com

What’s in the boxed lunch?

Well this is what I put in mine… and a few ideas for your next boxed lunch:

I try to add a little “prettiness,” to make it special for the kiddos, and to fulfill my creative needs. 😉  I remember when my mom used to get creative and spice up my school lunches, and I ALWAYS loved that.

Hint: I try to remember to put a few napkins in the bottom of the boxes, so they don’t blow away.

  •  Sandwich – You can make your own, or to make things even easier, grab a sandwich earlier in the day (or night before) from a local sandwich shop. P.S. That’s my favorite thing to do. 😉  I tied bakers twine around it, to hold it together.
  • Chips – My kids don’t need a TON of chips, so I usually put a few in small favor bags that I have.
  • Fruit – Whatever fruit is in season, is usually what will end up in our boxed lunches.
  • Drink – For a special treat, I have small little re-usable drink containers, and I put juice or water in them. Heck with having to find a sippy cup, or travel cup for my oldest at the last minute. It’s all ready to go!
  • Dessert – Saving the best for last! The NEW Oreo 2-ct packs are my fave-o-rite dessert “go-to,” for boxed lunches. They’re super convenient to grab, the right portion size for me…{ahem, I mean my little ones}, and they’re already packaged up and ready to go to the park. {I always try to keep these in the pantry for those grocery store trips, long drives, midnight cravings, and “just because’s.”}
DIY Picnic Boxed Lunch Idea https://fantabulosity.com

If you don’t have boxes like I have in this photo, no worries! You can use just about anything!

  • Small wire basket
  • Shoebox
  • Cardboard flat from the grocery store
  • get creative…

Tip:

Sometimes, if I know a boxed lunch is the plan, I’ll make them ahead of time, and put the whole thing in the refrigerator, and just grab and go when the time comes.

A Little Secret of Mine

(and embarrassing moment)

The Oreo. My weakness. If you’re a close friend of mine, you KNOW this is MY cookie.

If my house is ever without this “big black cookie,” {my kids call it}, we’re making a trip to the store. I may or may not have Oreo’s as my late night snack every night. I may or may not mix it up and rotate how I eat them every night, just for fun.

I’ll…

  • Dunk them in my milk
  • Pull them apart and eat the middle first
  • Shove it all in at once, and never look back!

It pretty much just all depends on what kind of day I’ve had. 😉

My Embarrassing Moment:

One morning, after what I thought was a beautiful, well-rested night’s sleep, my husband looked over at me with a surprised look on his face:

What in the world!?

“What! What is it?!

Honey, go look in the mirror.

I couldn’t believe it. I looked in the mirror, and I looked like an unsupervised toddler that had been left alone with a cookie jar.

Apparently, I had gotten up in the middle of the night, and satisfied my sweet tooth craving, without even knowing it. I had chocolate smeared across my face, and the lid was off the cookie jar.

Don’t get between me and my Oreo’s. It won’t end well. 😉

Oreo 2-ct packs are the perfect size for a late night snack! Totally my weakness. https://fantabulosity.com

Until next time,

XO!

Fun Facts about the NEW Oreo 2-Ct.

  • This May OREO launched a NEW 2-pack, a convenient grab-and-go snack designed for packed schedules.
    • Whether it's slipped into your purse or tucked away in the glove compartment, the OREO 2-pack is perfect for a quick treat at work, running errands, carpooling to family activities or family day trips.
  • Containing two cookies per pack, this OREO 2-pack is the perfect serving size to satisfy your sweet tooth on-the-go.
  • OREO 2-pack multipacks are sold in packages of 18 and can be found at local grocery stores
  • 2-pack multipacks are also available in Nutter Butter.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Pin this Image to Remember:

DIY Picnic Boxed Lunch Idea https://fantabulosity.com

Teacher Survival Kit & FREE Printable

My kiddo will be starting his second year of preschool this year, and we are BOTH looking so forward to it. He loves going, and I love it for him for a couple of reasons:

•  I love it, because HE loves it

• He’s making friends and being social

• I get to have one on one time with my youngest for a few hours a day

Although he only goes for only a few hours, his teacher plays HUGE part in his life. So I wanted to tell her “thank you,” and help her survive the school year with a little treat.

Teacher Survival Kit

Teacher Survival Kit - Teacher Gift Idea https://fantabulosity.com

I’ve heard before that teachers are overwhelmed with homemade gifts every year. The DIY coffee mugs, framed art made out of crayons, homemade cookies, etc. always seem to be an abundant supply.

 So I wanted to create something that the teacher could put to good use. I hear a lot that teachers spend a lot of their own money on school supplies, and I wanted to help ease the pain.

What’s Included:

• Desk Organizer {to hold everything}

• Scissors

•  Small Notebook

• Notepads

• Hole Punch

• Stickers

• Glue Stick

• Hand Sanitizer

• Highlighters

• Dry Erase Markers

• Tape

• White Out

• Pens

• Pencils

• Gift Card to an Office Supply Store

• Head Ache Medicine

• M&M’s

Now… the beauty of this teacher survival kit, is that you can totally downsize this gift if you need to.  Please understand my little guy is in preschool, so he has ONE teacher. I know that when kiddos start elementary school, they’ll have their primary teacher, music teacher, art teacher, P.E. teacher, etc.

Downsizing this same gift is so easy to do!  Grab a small little basket, and only put 3-4 goodies in it, and it’s STILL the cutest…useful gift!

Another money saving idea: You can also head to your dollar store, and grab the gift goodies more affordably, than probably an office supply store.

TIP: Any time I create a “gift basket,” type gift… I try to take as many things out of the package as possible. Big, bulky packaging can really take away for the contents inside of the gift.

Teacher Survival Kit - Teacher Gift Idea https://fantabulosity.com

Free Printable – Teacher Survival Kit

As you know, I wouldn’t create a printable, and not share it with you! Besides, I’m here to make your life a little easier… right? 😉

Download the “Teacher Survival Kit,” printable here —-> Teacher Survival Kit

Teacher Survival Kit - Teacher Gift Idea https://fantabulosity.com

Make sure you ‘”scale,” it down to the size you need. With the setting I have it on, it will use a whole 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper

I asked you all for feedback on my Facebook page, and I LOVED all of the teacher gift ideas! I couldn’t believe all of the creative and fun tips that you had. You all are brilliant, and that’s just ONE of the many reasons that I adore you all!

More Teacher Gift Ideas

If you missed the incredible list of teacher gift ideas, that real-life teachers provided, where they shared their favorite gifts to receive, then you’ll want to check that out for sure.

Or, if you’re more of DIY gift giver, you’ll love these DIY Bath Salts that are specifically packaged as a gift for teachers.