Adventures of Mel

Category: Recipes

  • Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan

    Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan

    Bush's Hummus Made Easy Disclosure

    Hungry for loaded nachos but don’t feel like going out? I’ve made mention before how much this family loves Tex-Mex, especially chicken tacos, beef tacos, and creamy chicken enchiladas.

    Usually, when we’re going out to eat, we’re going for Mexican. Loaded nachos are a favorite all ’round, as is a nice snack of roasted red pepper hummus.

    I’ve got a delicious recipe for you that will make you re-think ever using refried beans again.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    Want a camping version of these chicken nachos? Try our campfire nachos recipe!

    We had a crazy busy week last week. We had a week filled with doctor’s appointments, a midwife appointment, minor surgery for Dan, and more, not to mention homeschooling and work.

    We’re trying to get as much done and meet as many commitments as we possibly can before this baby boy arrives. But by the time the end of the week arrived, we were all beat and needed something super easy to snack on, not to mention something fairly easy to eat for dinner.

    As I mentioned, we love roasted red pepper hummus.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    We’ll eat it with crackers, tortilla chips, pita bread… It’s a favorite snack around here but also tends to be a bit pricey, meaning we don’t always keep it on hand.

    But that has changed since we’ve been introduced to Bush’s Hummus Made Easy. Available at Walmart in 3 delicious flavors (Classic, Roasted Red Pepper, and Southwest Black Bean), it’s also friendly to our budget.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    Not only that, but it’s easily made in literally seconds, I kid you not.

    All you need is a can of beans, the pouch of hummus, and a food processor or blender (I used my Ninja).

    We chose to use Bush’s Garbanzos (or Chick Peas), which happened to be conveniently located right next to the Hummus Made Easy pouches in the store, to mix up a batch of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Made Easy.

    And you know what? In my opinion, it tastes better than the stuff that’s already pre-mixed and packaged in the deli. And it’s cheaper! Win win!

    On top of that, it has no artificial preservatives, and it’s made with real ingredients like olive oil, tahini, roasted red bell peppers, and spices.

    Even more importantly, it meets my official taste tester’s seal of approval.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    I really like how versatile it is. There are a ton of recipes on the Hummus Made Easy site, and when I saw a recipe for a 7 layer dip and perused Pinterest just a bit for even more inspiration, I knew I wanted to make some sort of nachos, leading me to the idea of Loaded Nachos, only without refried beans and made with hummus instead.

    Honestly, these nachos are all about the layering. You have a layer of tortilla chips, dollops of hummus…

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    … then a layer of delicious Instant Pot Taco Chicken, white queso, a bit of lime juice and red onion, cheese, tomatoes, and avocado. Mmmm…

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    That layer of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Made Easy makes all the difference in the world. It adds a flavor that you just can’t get otherwise.

    These nachos were the most flavorful nachos I’ve ever made; they were far from your typical, boring nachos.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    Just thinking about it is making me crave them all over again. Pregnancy cravings are no joke.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    Looking for more delicious appetizer and snack recipes?

    Below, you’ll find the printable recipe. Enjoy!

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!

    Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan

    Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more.

    • Blue and white tortilla chips
    • 1 pouch Bush’s Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Made Easy
    • 1 can Bush’s Garbanzos
    • 2 chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
    • 1/2 cup Picante
    • 1 lime (just a squeeze of juice)
    • 1/2 cup white queso
    • 1/2 medium red onion (minced)
    • 4 oz. cheddar (shredded)
    • 4 oz. Colby Jack (shredded)
    • Tomatoes
    • Avocado
    • Sour cream
    1. Mix Bush’s Hummus Made Easy and Garbanzos, according to package directions.
    2. Layer a generous amount of blue and white tortilla chips on bottom of sheet pan.
    3. Add dollops of hummus around on top of tortilla chips.
    4. Mix cooked, shredded chicken with Picante and spread around on top as a third layer.
    5. Squeeze lime juice all around on chicken.
    6. Spoon white queso all around on nachos.
    7. Scatter minced red onion as yet another layer.
    8. Add shredded cheeses, spreading evenly across nachos.
    9. Bake at 325° for about 10 minutes, maybe a little longer if cheese isn’t melted.
    10. Remove from oven and add your favorite toppings, like tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, and salsa.
    11. Serve and enjoy!
    12. Note: These nachos can also be refrigerated and later warmed back up in the oven; if warmed in the oven, it brings the crunchiness of the nachos right back. Yum!
    Appetizers
    Tex-Mex
    chicken nachos, loaded chicken nachos, loaded nachos

    Can’t make the nachos just yet? Go ahead and pin them for later! They’ll be waiting when the craving hits.

    Also, note that you can follow the hashtag #HummusMadeEasy on social media for even more ideas, recipes, and inspiration surrounding Bush’s Hummus Made Easy.

    Hungry for loaded nachos and Tex-Mex but don’t feel like going out? Make the most flavorful loaded nachos with chicken and roasted red pepper hummus, along with other favorite ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and more. Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan Recipe!
  • Homemade Peaches and Cream Waffles Recipe

    Homemade Peaches and Cream Waffles Recipe

    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!

    Waffles for dinner… That’s what we had one night last week when I got this harebrained idea to make peaches ‘n’ cream waffles. And I have to say, they were pretty scrumptious. With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, they had a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon for good measure.

    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!

    These waffles are super easy to make. All you need are the ingredients and a waffle iron. If you don’t have a waffle iron, you could even make these into pancakes. They’d work whichever way you like.

    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!
    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!
    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!

    We topped ours off with a few sliced peaches. Then we added a li’l whipped cream and a smidge of real maple syrup. Served with a bit of bacon to add a little protein to our meal, it was one of those super fun breakfast for dinner nights.

    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!

    Below you’ll find the printable recipe. Enjoy!

    Homemade Peaches and Cream Waffles

    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, peaches and cream waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon for good measure.

    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 tsp. baking soda
    • 2 tsp. baking powder
    • 3/4 tsp. salt
    • 2 tbsp. granulated sugar
    • 1 egg
    • 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk soured with about 1 tbsp. vinegar)
    • 3 tbsp. canola oil
    • Dash of cinnamon
    • 2 peaches (pureed)
    • Extra peaches (whipped cream, and real maple syrup for serving)
    1. Sift and stir together dry ingredients in bowl; then make a well in center of mixture.
    2. Add egg, buttermilk, and oil to well in dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened.
    3. Wash, slice, and puree peaches, peeling and all. Add to mixture, mixing well.
    4. Lightly spray waffle maker with cooking spray if needed, and heat to a moderate temperature.
    5. Cook waffles until they reach a nice golden color, are cooked through, and edges are slightly crispy.
    6. Serve with butter, real maple syrup, peaches, and whipped cream. Enjoy!
    Pancakes, Waffles, & French Toast
    American
    homemade peach waffles, peaches and cream waffles
    With peaches in the batter and peaches sliced on top, Peaches and Cream Waffles have a light peachy taste with a hint of cinnamon. Top them off with whipped cream and real maple syrup, and serve for a scrumptious breakfast or breakfast for dinner. Printable recipe!
  • Easy Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe

    Easy Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe

    Sweet Scarletts Disclosure
    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!

    Mmmm, there is nothing like a sweet, red, juicy grapefruit. Throw that together in a blender full of other tropical fruits and berries, and you’ve got a fruit smoothie that is out of this world delicious, not to mention refreshing. If you’ve never tried grapefruit in a smoothie, you are so missing out. But no more, because today I’ve got the perfect recipe for you. It’s so easy and simple and has NO added sugar. The natural fruit itself, including Sweet Scarletts Texas Red Grapefruit, is the sweetness in this smoothie.

    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!

    Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved a good grapefruit. In fact, just looking at a grapefruit brings back really fond memories for me. My dad was an over-the-road truck driver, and sometimes he’d be out for a month at a time. But when he’d return, he ‘d always come home bearing gifts. At certain times of the year, after going through the great state of Texas, he’d bring home huge boxes of grapefruit. We’d store them in our uninsulated cold stairwell that led up to the second story of our old farmhouse. Then every morning (or even of a night) we’d grab a grapefruit and one of the only grapefruit spoons we owned, split the grapefruit open to reveal red, juicy fruit inside, and enjoy to our hearts’ content. We’d eat every bite of the fruit inside, then squeeze out all the juice and drink it down. Not a drop was left when we were finished. My dad loved adding a dash of salt to his grapefruit, a habit he’s passed on to my boys; myself, I love them just the way they are.

    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!
    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!
    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!
    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!

    For this particular smoothie recipe, all you need is a bunch of fruit, including Sweet Scarletts Grapefruit, and ice cubes. That’s it! No sugar, no extra stuff. Wash, peel, and chunk the fruit into a blender.Then blend until you have a nice, smooth puree. Add the ice cubes and blend again. You’re left with a bright pink smoothie that my guys couldn’t get enough of…

    It’s nature’s sweetness at its finest and simplest. It’s healthy too, a good source of vitamin C and fiber. And it’s so yummy!

    Looking for more smoothie or frozen drink recipes?

    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!
    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!

    Grab the printable recipe below and enjoy!

    Easy Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe

    Throw a sweet, red, juicy grapefruit together with a blender full of other tropical fruits and berries, and you’ve got a fruit smoothie that is out of this world delicious, not to mention refreshing.

    • 1 Sweet Scarletts Grapefruit
    • 8-10 strawberries
    • 1 orange
    • 2 bananas
    • 2 kiwi
    • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
    • 3/4 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
    • 2 cups ice cubes
    1. Wash all fresh fruit; I like to soak mine in a vinegar/water bath for about 10 minutes.
    2. Peel grapefruit, orange, bananas, kiwi, pineapple, and mango.
    3. Stem strawberries.
    4. Chunk fruit up into blender.
    5. Blend until mixture is a nice, smooth puree.
    6. Add ice cubes and blend until mixture is well combined.
    7. Pour into jars or glasses, add straws, and serve immediately.
    8. Enjoy!
    Drinks
    American
    grapefruit smoothie, tropical fruit smoothie
    How to make a simple, easy, natural fruit smoothie, no sugar added. All you need is fruit and ice for a refreshing Grapefruit, Berry, and Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Printable recipe!

    Try Sweet Scarletts, the sweetest Texas red grapefruit. Check out the Sweet Scarletts Facebook page for more from the reddest, sweetest, and best grapefruit you’ve ever tasted.

  • Sweet and Tart Dark Cherry Cobbler Recipe

    Sweet and Tart Dark Cherry Cobbler Recipe

    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!
    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

    With February being national cherry month, I thought it the perfect time to celebrate with a homemade fruit cobbler. I make a killer campfire cherry cobbler when we’re out camping, but it’s been a long time since I’ve made a cherry cobbler at home. This recipe is very similar to my homemade peach cobbler and homemade blueberry cobbler recipes.

    How to Make a Dark Cherry Cobbler
    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

    Making a fruit cobbler is really not as hard as it sounds; in fact, a cobbler is probably the easiest type of pie/pastry you could ever endeavor to make. It’s perfect for a beginning baker, and kids might like to get involved, as well.

    The crust comes first. You mix up the ingredients for the crust, per the recipe below. Then save back about 1/4 of the dough to use as topping. Press the rest of the crust into a baking dish. Personally, I love ceramic bakeware, and just a hint… Wayfair has an excellent selection of bakeware. You can also use an oven-friendly glass baking dish or a pie plate. The choice is totally up to you. But press that crust all along the bottom of your dish and up the sides just a bit, enough to hold the cobbler filling.

    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

    Next, you’ll mix up the filling, per the recipe below. You can use fresh cherries or frozen; I used frozen organic dark sweet cherries since fresh are a bit out of season in our neck of the woods right now.

    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

    Once you’ve poured your filling into the crust, just crumble the rest of the crust that you saved back on top of your cobbler and bake! It’s as simple as that.

    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

    We love our cobbler with a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream. The cream just adds even more flavor to the fruity cobbler. It’s so delicious!

    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

    Below you’ll find the printable recipe. Enjoy!

    Looking for more fruit pie recipes?

    Sweet and Tart Dark Cherry Cobbler

    Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, dark cherry cobbler is mouthwateringly scrumptious and easy to make too.

    Crust:

    • 2 cups flour
    • 3-4 tbsp sugar
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 3/4 cup oil
    • 3-4 tbsp milk

    Filling:

    • 20 oz. frozen dark cherries (without pits, thawed)
    • 1/2-2/3 cup sugar
    • Pinch of salt
    • 1/2 tbsp corn starch
    • 1/2 tbsp cinnamon
    • 1/2 stick salted butter
    1. Preheat oven to 425°. Bring down to 375°.
    2. For the crust, combine dry ingredients.
    3. Combine oil and milk; then add to dry ingredients, stirring with a fork.
    4. Save back about 1/4 of dough for topping.
    5. Press the rest of the crust into a baking dish. Press up the sides until crust is high enough to hold the filling.
    6. Once thawed, you can chop the cherries if you wish or leave them whole.
    7. Combine cherries with sugar, salt, corn starch, and cinnamon. Mix well.
    8. Pour cherry mixture into crust, and top with sliced butter.
    9. Finally, crumble your crust topping over the cherry mixture.
    10. Bake for 40 minutes to 1 hour, until crust and topping are a nice golden brown.
    11. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and enjoy!
    Pies & Pastries
    American
    cherry cobbler, cherry cobbler recipe, dark cherry cobbler
    Need a simple dessert recipe? How to make a simple yet scrumptious dark cherry cobbler (or any fruit cobbler, for that matter) with a recipe that’s simple and easy to follow. Prep in 20 minutes, bake, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!
  • Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites

    Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    My sweet tooth sometimes gets ahold of me and won’t let up until I satisfy that craving for whatever particular sweet treat I’m craving at the moment. I like to think I get it honest, per my grandmother, who had a mean sweet tooth.

    But let me tell you, moderation is key and plays a role in this recipe… Bite-sized treats are perfect when trying to satisfy a craving yet still not gorge oneself on sweet goodies from above.

    When I cooked this up, I knew I wanted something similar to a cheese danish. Shopping for ingredients led me to these itty bitty Puff Pastry Cups.

    Aren’t they cute? They are awesome! I totally see cream puffs in our future with these bad boys.

    These bite-sized morsels of creamy cheesecake-esque goodness are delightfully easy to make, and here’s how.

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!
    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    First things first, bake the Puff Pastry Cups according to package directions. When done, after about 20 minutes, immediately remove from oven and press center of each cup down with the tip of a wooden spoon handle. Then fill each cup with a spoonful or dollop of the cream cheese filling you mixed up while they were baking. Bake again for about 15 minutes at a lower temp (exact instructions are in the printable recipe below).

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!
    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    Once filling is set, remove from oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes. Then top with a small dollop of strawberry jam, and lace with a simple powdered sugar icing. Of course, store them in the fridge until ready to serve.

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    They’re so scrumptious! I love the mini size… It’s the perfect amount of sweet to satisfy that craving yet not overdo. Moderation… 

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    Below you’ll find the printable recipe. Enjoy!

    Can’t make it just yet? Pin it for later!

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with Easy Strawberry Cheese Danish Pastry Bites. Made with bite-sized Puff Pastry Cups, they’re so easy to make and so delightfully scrumptious, allowing for moderation, as well!

    Pastry Bites:

    • 1 pkg. Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry Cups
    • 1 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
    • 3 tbsp. granulated sugar
    • 1/2 tsp. vanilla
    • 1 egg yolk
    • Strawberry jam

    Icing:

    • 1-2 tbsp. salted butter (melted)
    • 1/2 tsp. vanilla
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 5 tbsp. heavy whipping cream
    1. Set Puff Pastry Cups on ungreased cookie sheet. Follow package directions, baking at 400° for about 20 minutes.
    2. Meanwhile, mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk ’til smooth and creamy.
    3. When done, remove Pastry Cups from oven and immediately press center of each cup down with tip of wooden spoon handle.
    4. Spoon cream cheese mixture into each cup, adding a small dollop in each.
    5. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until filling is set.
    6. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes.
    7. Top each danish with small dollop of strawberry jam.
    8. Mix icing ingredients together until smooth and creamy. It will have a thin consistency.
    9. Drizzle each pastry bite with icing.
    10. Store in fridge ’til ready to serve.
    11. Serve and enjoy!
    Pies & Pastries
    American
    pastry bites, puff pastry recipes, strawberry cheese danish, strawberry cheese danish bites
  • Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s

    Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s

    When it comes to types of food, I could eat Mexican day in and day out. Dan’s mentioned getting me a shirt that says, “I’m just here for the queso.” It’s so true. Enchiladas, tacos, fajitas, you name it, it’s all good and worthy of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in my opinion.

    Of course, a hearty Mexican Pizza, loaded down with all the fixin’s, rates really high on my list of favorite meals; it’s also just one of the many meals my kids love. 

    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.

    This particular Mexican Pizza is loaded with the fixin’s of your choosing, including but not limited to lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.

    It’s easy and simple to make, but I wouldn’t call it a quick meal. It takes a little time to prepare, especially if you prefer to take your time.

    I find myself way less stressed when I can go in the kitchen and just take my time. Turn a little music on, gather all my ingredients, and just enjoy the process of putting together a meal, all the time looking forward to eating and enjoying it with my family.

    So, How to Put this Mexican Pizza together…

    1. Sandwich two small (taco-sized) tortillas together with refried beans.
    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.
    1. Add another layer of refried beans to the top tortilla, about a tablespoonful. Then add your ground beef/picante mixture, shredding cheese on top of that.
    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.
    1. Finally, bake for about 15 minutes or until heated all the way through and cheese is melted.
    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.
    1. Remove from the oven and load your pizza down with all the yummy fixin’s. We prefer lettuce, lots of tomatoes, and avocado. You can also add a little spoonful of fresh basil tomato salsa or peach mango salsa.
    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.

    Below, you’ll find the printable recipe. Grab that recipe and enjoy!

    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.

    Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s

    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.

    • 1 lb. ground beef
    • Salt & Pepper
    • 1 1/2 cups picante sauce
    • Pinch of brown sugar
    • 1 can refried beans
    • Small flour tortillas
    • 4 oz. extra sharp cheddar
    • 4 oz. Colby Jack
    • 1/3 head green leaf lettuce
    • 5 medium tomatoes
    • 2 avocados
    • Sour cream
    1. Pre-heat oven to 325°.
    2. To form each pizza, sandwich two tortillas together with a layer of refried beans, about 1 tablespoonful.
    3. Add another layer of refried beans to the top of the tortillas, about a tablespoonful.
    4. Cook ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, and drain well.
    5. Add picante sauce and pinch of brown sugar to ground beef, mixing well and heating through.
    6. Layer 2-3 spoonfuls of the ground beef mixture onto top of tortillas.
    7. Shred cheese and add to top of ground beef mixture on pizzas.
    8. Bake at 325° on ungreased cookie sheet for about 15 minutes or until heated all the way through and cheese is melted.
    9. Meanwhile, wash and chop lettuce and tomatoes; wash, peel, and chop avocados. Set aside in serving bowls.
    10. When fully cooked, remove pizzas from the oven and load your pizza down with all the yummy fixin’s.
    11. Serve with sour cream and enjoy.
    Dinner Ideas
    Tex-Mex
    homemade Mexican pizza

    Can’t make it just yet? Pin it for later!

    Homemade is way better, especially when it comes to Homemade Mexican Pizza with All the Fixin’s, like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Enjoy a simple recipe that makes a delicious family meal and curbs those cravings for your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex food.
  • How to Make a Snowman in a Pudding Cup

    How to Make a Snowman in a Pudding Cup


    Snack Pack Winter DisclosureSnow… I am seriously pining for snow right now, as are both my boys — especially Jaden. On a recent, particularly rainy day, I decided to bring the snow indoors, so to speak. Nothing gets me in a wintry mood more than a snowman. And nothing makes Jaden’s heart happier than creating something with Mama. So, we decided to gather all our supplies and make our very own indoor snowman in a Snack Pack® pudding cup. In fact, we made quite a few of the little guys, so much so that we had enough to share with Daddy and Jacob. Crafting + edible ingredients = 1 very happy boy!Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to make a snowman in a pudding cup!

    Making a snowman in a pudding cup is actually quite simple and leaves a LOT of room for creativity. And this recipe is definitely going on my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations.

    Here are the supplies you’ll need.

    Supplies for Snowman in a Pudding Cup

    Snack Pack® pudding cups
    Extra large marshmallows
    Large marshmallows
    Mini marshmallows
    Various chocolate candies (for the hat)
    Fruit rope (for the scarf)
    Frosting in black and orange (or whatever colors your heart desires)
    2 ordinary round cake tips

    Instructions for Creating a Snowman in a Pudding Cup

    The first step is to remove the lid from each Snack Pack® pudding cup you’ll be using. We used chocolate and butterscotch, mainly because they’re our favorite flavors. Clean the top edge of the pudding cup with a paper towel.

    When beginning a snowman, you can use an extra large or large marshmallow for the foundation. I preferred using the extra large on the bottom; but if using a large marshmallow for your first layer, you can surround it with mini marshmallows, both for support and because it can look like snow.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to make a snowman in a pudding cup!

    Add a dab of frosting before adding the top marshmallow; the frosting helps things stick and stay together.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to make a snowman in a pudding cup! Then add the marshmallow, pressing onto frosting.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to make a snowman in a pudding cup!

    Now for the fun of decorating, and this part is totally up to what you or your kids want to do; after all, there’s no right or wrong way to decorate a snowman. Use hat shaped candies for top hats or stocking caps (you could even use a strawberry for a hat), adding a dab of frosting to the snowman’s head before adding candy pieces.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to make a snowman in a pudding cup! Use black frosting for coal eyes and a smile; orange frosting works well for a carrot nose. Add a scarf, using fruit rope or candy rope, with a dot of frosting to hold the scarf together. Black frosting makes cute little buttons down your snowman’s front.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to build a snowman in a pudding cup! Jaden even added things like earmuffs (with mini marshmallows) and a tie to his snowmen.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to build a snowman in a pudding cup!

    When you’re all done, you can add more mini marshmallows around the edge of the pudding cup to make it look like snow piled up. A dab of frosting helps the marshmallows stay put.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to build a snowman in a pudding cup!

    The sky’s the limit. It’s really just all about having FUN! As we were making these, Jaden whispered excitedly between bites of sweet, creamy goodness, “This is really fun!”.Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to build a snowman in a pudding cup! Isn’t that what it’s all about? Spending time together, just enjoying the moment and making a fun memory that will last a lifetime. Oh and, of course, eating the results of your work when finished. Eating as you go can be quite fun too!

    Looking for more Christmas sweet treats?

    You may also enjoy a dollop of Peppermint Whipped Cream in your pudding cup!

    How would you build a snowman in a Snack Pack®? Share your idea in a comment below!

    Kids bored on a cold winter day? Make an edible kids craft or kids snack with them. How to make a snowman in a pudding cup!This winter, take a moment to slow down and enjoy a tasty and fun treat with the kids. Snack Pack® comes in a variety of flavors and offers endless mix-in opportunities the kids can help prepare. Each serving of Snack Pack is fortified with as much calcium as an 8-oz glass of milk,* so you can feel good about serving your kids Snack Pack. For mix-in inspiration, visit Snack Pack on Pinterest (pinterest.com/snackpack) and Facebook (facebook.com/SnackPackPudding).

    ** All Snack Pack products contain 30% DV calcium, with the exception of Bakery Shop Lemon Meringue Pie, Lemon Pudding, and Snack Pack Gels.

  • Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Light Cookies

    Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Light Cookies

    We have been baking up a storm, ordering Christmas presents, and thoroughly enjoying the holiday season this year.

    Now, I usually make these cookies any time of the year, but when I thought about it, the candies in these cookies really do resemble Christmas lights! So, why not give them a new name… Christmas Light Cookies!

    Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Light Cookies, with loads of chocolate candy for a scrumptious holiday dessert. Grab the printable sweet treat recipe for these festive Christmas cookies!

    I’ve made these twice in the past week because they’re just that good. My kids gobble them up as fast as they gobble up M&M monster cookies, but they also make great gifts.

    Snoopy’s Cookie Jar inspired these chocolaty holiday cookies, filled with loads of chocolate and loads of holiday love. Grab the printable recipe for these festive Christmas cookies!

    Made similarly to my favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies, these cookies are filled with mini milk chocolate candy bits, semi-sweet dark chocolate candy bits, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. They’re made for the chocolate lover in you.

    Snoopy’s Cookie Jar inspired these chocolaty holiday cookies, filled with loads of chocolate and loads of holiday love. Grab the printable recipe for these festive Christmas cookies!

    My favorite time to eat them is fresh out of the oven, but as they age, they get even more of a chewy texture to them. I love a chocolaty cookie that’s good and chewy, don’t you? Chewy is best when it comes to any kind of cookie with chocolate chunks in it.

    Snoopy’s Cookie Jar inspired these chocolaty holiday cookies, filled with loads of chocolate and loads of holiday love. Grab the printable recipe for these festive Christmas cookies!

    Below you’ll find the printable recipe. Enjoy!

    Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

    Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe

    Rolled Sugar Cookies

    Butter Almond Snowball Christmas Cookies

    Red-Nosed Reindeer Thumbprint Cookies

    Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

    30 of the Most Scrumptious Classic Christmas Cookies Ever

    You can find even more holiday recipes on my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations!

    Snoopy’s Cookie Jar inspired these chocolaty holiday cookies, filled with loads of chocolate and loads of holiday love. Grab the printable recipe for these festive Christmas cookies!

    Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Light Cookies

    Christmas light cookies are filled with mini milk chocolate M&M's Minis, semi-sweet dark chocolate M&M's, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. They’re made for the chocolate lover in you.

    • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter
    • ¾ cup granulated sugar
    • ¾ cup brown sugar
    • 2 eggs
    • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
    • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (measure before sifting)
    • ½ tsp. baking soda
    • 1 heaping tsp. salt
    • 1/2 bag (6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips)
    • 1 bag Semi-Sweet Dark Chocolate M&M’s Baking Bits
    • 3/4 bag Milk Chocolate M&M’s Minis Holiday Baking Bits
    1. Pre-heat oven to 375°.
    2. Cream butter and sugars together. It’s up to you whether you use light brown or dark brown sugar, depending on your preferred cookie texture. I prefer light brown because it lends to a more golden, raised cookie with crunchy edges and a chewy, slightly cake-like center.
    3. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
    4. Sift flour, baking soda, and salt.
    5. Add sifted dry ingredients to creamed mixture, mixing well.
    6. Add chocolate chips and chocolate candies, thoroughly mixing into dough.
    7. At this point, nuts are an optional add-in, but I always make without.
    8. Drop by heaping teaspoon onto cookie sheet.
    9. Bake at 375° for 10-11 minutes, or until cookies are lightly golden and done.
    10. Serve and enjoy!
    Cookies & Bars
    American
    chocolate chip cookies, chocolate chip cookies with M&M’s, Christmas cookies, Christmas light cookies, M&M’s cookies
    What’s your favorite holiday treat? Share in the comments! I’d love to know your favorite Christmas-y treats and traditions.

    Pin this recipe to save it for later!

    How to make a scrumptious holiday treat, Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Light Cookies. Filled with M&M’s, perfect for a Christmas party dessert!
  • Caramel Apple Donut Holes

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes

    Originally, I meant to get this recipe up in September, but when you’re utterly and completely sick to your stomach for weeks (er, months) on end, food is the absolute last thing you EVER want to look at, let alone write about unless you absolutely have to.

    While I’m still dealing with the yucks somewhat (oh, but I know the end reward will be worth it), I’m calling it and posting this recipe anyway. And you know why? You deserve to make this recipe while you’re still craving caramel apple everything and all the apple recipes.

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, coated with a Krispy Kreme copycat like icing that’s flaky and oh so scrumptious.

    Back when my taste buds were still in good working order, these donut holes were AH-MAZING.

    These are a quick rise yeast donut, fried in a deep fryer. I know, not the healthiest, but every once in awhile, it’s ok to enjoy a simple treat. Simple ingredients led to a delicious fall treat that I honestly can’t wait to make again.

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, coated with a Krispy Kreme copycat like icing that’s flaky and oh so scrumptious.

    In fact, I may take this recipe, switch it up, and make a fantastic baked sweet bread. Who can tell? Just let me get my tummy back in order, and a recipe will be coming your way.

    Let’s just talk about the icing, though. I happen to be a fan of Krispy Kreme and the wonderful, flaky, melt-in-your-mouth icing they use on their glazed donuts. In trying to emulate the texture and consistency of their icing, this icing turned out quite well. Quite the copycat if I do say so myself.

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, coated with a Krispy Kreme copycat like icing that’s flaky and oh so scrumptious.

    When you bite into the donut holes, the icing flakes and gives that deliciously crunchy effect. So yummy!

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, coated with a Krispy Kreme copycat like icing that’s flaky and oh so scrumptious.

    Grab the printable recipe below. And most of all, enjoy!

    Looking for more sweet breakfast treats?

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, coated with a Krispy Kreme copycat like icing that’s flaky and oh so scrumptious.

    Caramel Apple Donut Holes

    Caramel apple donut holes are a quick rise yeast donut, fried in a deep fryer and glazed with a thin, flaky, melt-in-your-mouth icing that's oh so delicious!

    Donut Holes:

    • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 tablespoons quick rise yeast
    • 2/3 cup cane sugar
    • 3 teaspoons salt
    • 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
    • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1/2 teaspoon caramel extract

    Icing:

    • 4 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/2 teaspoon caramel extract
    • 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
    • 1/4 cup whole milk
    • 1/2 cup apple juice

    1. Whisk all the dry ingredients, including the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and apple pie spice, together.

    2. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened unsalted butter, milk, eggs, and caramel extract.

    3. Blend the liquid ingredients with the dry ingredients.

    4. Let the dough rise for an hour or more, 'til doubled in size.

    5. Roll the dough out onto a floured surface, and cut with donut/donut hole cutter. (TIP: If you don't have a donut hole cutter, cut the top off a plastic soda bottle and wash. Use the opening of the soda bottle to cut out donut holes, works like a charm!)

    6. Place the donuts on a cookie sheet and let rise 'til doubled in size.

    7. Meanwhile, mix up the icing, blending all the ingredients together.

    8. Fry the donuts and donut holes in a deep fryer set to 350° F, 'til each donut hole is cooked thru and golden. You can also fry them in a skillet in a couple inches of canola oil.

    9. Let the donuts and donut holes drain on paper bags.

    10. While still warm, dip each one in the icing.

    11. Set on a rack over wax paper to drip and cool.

    12. Once they've cooled enough to eat, they're ready for you to enjoy!

    Breads & Muffins
    American
    caramel apple donut holes, fried donut holes, homemade donut holes

    Pin the recipe for later!

    caramel apple donut holes recipe
  • Chocolate Whoopie Pies from Grandma’s Kitchen

    Chocolate Whoopie Pies from Grandma’s Kitchen

    Let me share with you how to make my grandma’s recipe for chocolate whoopie pies. These soft chocolate cookie sandwiches with vanilla buttercream filling are a family-favorite dessert recipe she taught us all how to bake.

    It’s no secret that I love my grandma’s recipes. Both my grandmas were wonderful cooks, and the heirloom recipes they passed down mean everything to me. This chocolate whoopie pie recipe has been in my family for over a century.

    stack of chocolate whoopie pies on green Texas Ware saucer plate

    Sometimes I even love to make this version of heart shaped whoopie pies for Valentine’s Day.

    Why You’re Going to Love These Cookies

    • They’re so delicious. Soft and cake-like, they’re sandwiched together with a creamy vanilla buttercream filling.
    • You’ll love how easy they are to make. There’s nothing to them. Mix up the cookie dough and bake, and mix up a quick filling while they’re cooling. Easy peasy.
    • They require minimal ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

    Ingredient and Substitution Notes

    • Butter – You’ll need unsalted for the cookie dough, and salted butter for the filling.
    • All-Purpose Flour – While these are made with regular flour, I make them gluten-free all the time; I just use my favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour to make them. You can make them both ways with no issues whatsoever. Just use a good flour.
    • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – I prefer Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa powder, but you can use whatever you have on hand, as long as it’s unsweetened.

    While we’re talking ingredients…

    Let’s Talk Quick about What Whoopie Pie Filling is Made of

    You have options when it comes to making your whoopie pie filling…

    • Most whoopie pies include marshmallow fluff in the filling.
    • My great grandma, who traveled to Missouri by covered wagon, used a cooked icing she made with 1 cup sugar, 1 or 2 tbsp. butter, 1 tsp. vanilla, a dash of salt, and enough cream to set this mixture. She’d cook it to soft ball stage and ice the cookies on the underside, putting together two cookies like a sandwich. She would make these and have them ready for an after school snack when my mom and her sisters would arrive home from school via the school bus. She stored them in a metal roasting pan with a lid that was all bent up, and she kept it in the pantry.
    • You can use a simple cream cheese frosting.
    • I prefer to use a whoopie pie filling without fluff, my favorite sugar cookie icing I’ve made since I was a kid. It includes powdered sugar, salted butter, vanilla, almond extract, and milk or heavy whipping cream. This is pretty much what my grandma used too.

    Remember, the complete ingredient list with amounts and everything is in the printable recipe card below. Keep scrolling.

    How to Make Chocolate Whoopie Pies

    Baking chocolate gobs is a 2-step process. First, cookies, then the filling.

    First Bake the Cookies

    1. Cream (or mix) the butter and sugar together.
    2. Then add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
    3. Whisk or sift all the dry ingredients, including the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt, together.
    4. Mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. If the batter is too thin, you may need to add just a bit more flour.
    5. Drop from teaspoons onto a baking sheet; then bake at 350° F for 10 to 12 minutes.
    6. When fully baked, remove the cookies from the cookie sheet, and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
    steps for how to make chocolate whoopie pie recipe in KitchenAid bowl, mixing butter and sugar, eggs and vanilla, dry ingredients and milk, scooping cookies, and baking on cookie sheet

    Then Make the Whoopie Pie Filling

    1. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the softened butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
    2. Add the milk to the mixture.
    3. Slowly add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing it in as you go. You want a good consistency, not too runny or the cookies will slide apart; you want the icing thick enough to stay on the cookie but not so thick that it breaks the cookies apart when trying to spread it. Once everything is mixed together, the icing should be smooth and creamy, free of any lumps.
    4. Put the cookies together with this filling to form chocolate sandwich cookies.
    whoopie pie filling without fluff in green mixing bowl with spoon and spreading knife

    And that’s it! They’re ready to enjoy, and boy will you enjoy these cookies. My mouth is watering just thinking about them.

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Why are my whoopie pies flat?

    This is why I mention that you may need to add just a bit more flour. Depending on the flour you use, your dough could be quite thin, and you don’t want it to be so thin that it’s falling off the spoon. It should scoop quite nicely without running off the spoon. If your batter’s too thin, your cookies will be flat.

    Can I make these ahead of time?

    Yes, of course! I wouldn’t recommend more than a day ahead of time, but yes, you can make them the day before and they’ll be just fine. You may, however, want to store them in the fridge if you add the filling the day before, since the icing has milk.

    How should I store whoopie pies?

    I recommend keeping them in the fridge ’til you’re ready to serve them, since the filling does have milk (or cream). They should keep for 3-5 days if stored in an airtight container.

    Can you freeze whoopie pies?

    Yes, you can. You can bake them, frost them, package them in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container and freeze. They should keep for about 3 months.

    pile of chocolate gobs on green Texas Ware plate

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Chocolate Whoopie Pies

    How to make my grandma's family-favorite recipe for chocolate whoopie pies. Soft cookie sandwiches with vanilla buttercream filling.

    • Stand Mixer
    • Cookie Scoop
    • Cookie Sheet

    Whoopie Pie Dough:

    • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
    • 2 cups cane sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup whole milk

    Whoopie Pie Filling:

    • 2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
    • 1/2 cup whole milk (or heaving whipping cream)
    • 3 cups powdered sugar

    1. Pre-heat the oven to 350° F.

    2. Cream (or mix) the butter and sugar together.

    3. Then add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.

    4. Whisk or sift together the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt.

    5. Mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. If the batter is too thin, you may need to add just a bit more flour.

    6. Drop from teaspoons onto a baking sheet.

    7. Bake at 350° F for about 10 to 12 minutes.

    8. When fully baked, remove the cookies from the cookie sheet, and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

    Whoopie Pie Filling:

    1. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the softened butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

    2. Add the milk to the mixture.

    3. Slowly add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing it in as you go. You want a good consistency, not too runny or the cookies will slide apart; you want the icing thick enough to stay on the cookie but not so thick that it breaks the cookies apart when trying to spread it. Once everything is mixed together, the icing should be smooth and creamy, free of any lumps.

    4. Put the cookies together with this filling to form chocolate sandwich cookies.

    Why are my whoopie pies flat?

    This is why I mention that you may need to add just a bit more flour. Depending on the flour you use, your dough could be quite thin, and you don’t want it to be so thin that it’s falling off the spoon. It should scoop quite nicely without running off the spoon. If your batter’s too thin, your cookies will be flat.

    How should I store whoopie pies?

    I recommend keeping them in the fridge ’til you’re ready to serve them, since the filling does have milk (or cream). They should keep for 3-5 days if stored in an airtight container.

    Cookies & Bars, Desserts
    American
    chocolate gobs, chocolate sandwich cookies, chocolate whoopie pie, chocolate whoopie pies
  • Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

    Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

    Fall is here, and my taste buds are hoppin’ with all sorts of ideas for apple this, cinnamon that, pumpkin this, nutmeg that… All the apple recipes, including apple cinnamon buttermilk pancakes! Fall is all about the cozy side of food and home.

    What could be more cozy than a stack of pancakes with a pat of butter on top, drizzled with a hearty amount of warm maple syrup, besides maybe an apple cinnamon French toast bake? Can’t think of anything else, can you?

    Breakfast is served with fluffy Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes, made with applesauce and a dash of cinnamon. Serve with butter and warm maple syrup. They’re so scrumptiously delicious!

    Besides maybe a thick pile of homemade French Toast. Of course, with a hint of cinnamon and a little bit of applesauce, this particular stack of pancakes screamed all things fall.

    Instead of adding an egg to my normal batch of pancakes, I decided to go with applesauce to add a nice fall flavor. A dash or two of cinnamon completed this fall breakfast creation. You could also toss in a pinch of homemade apple pie spice! My mouth is actually starting to water, just thinking about it.

    Breakfast is served with fluffy Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes, made with applesauce and a dash of cinnamon. Serve with butter and warm maple syrup. They’re so scrumptiously delicious!

    Like butterbeer pancakes from scratch, this pancake recipe is super easy to make and perfect for a weekend breakfast. Grab the griddle and the mixing bowl, and get down to cookin’ up a hearty batch of apple cinnamon flapjacks.

    Breakfast is served with fluffy Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes, made with applesauce and a dash of cinnamon. Serve with butter and warm maple syrup. They’re so scrumptiously delicious!

    The nice thing about using applesauce is that unless you’re making your own applesauce, you don’t even have to peel or chop a thing.

    Breakfast is served with fluffy Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes, made with applesauce and a dash of cinnamon. Serve with butter and warm maple syrup. They’re so scrumptiously delicious!

    More pancake recipes you may enjoy:

    Grab the printable recipe below. Most of all, enjoy!

    Breakfast is served with fluffy Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes, made with applesauce and a dash of cinnamon. Serve with butter and warm maple syrup. They’re so scrumptiously delicious!

      Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes

    With a hint of cinnamon and a little bit of applesauce, a stack of apple cinnamon buttermilk pancakes screams all things fall.

    • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 3/4 teaspoon salt
    • 2 tablespoons cane sugar
    • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
    • 3/4 cup buttermilk
    • 3 tablespoons canola oil

    1. Whisk together the dry ingredients, including the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.

    2. Make a well in the center of the mixture.

    3. Add the applesauce, buttermilk, and canola oil to the well; then stir just until moistened.

    4. Lightly spray a griddle with cooking spray, and heat to a moderate temperature over low to medium heat.

    5. Spoon the pancake batter onto the hot griddle, and cook until the tops are covered with bubbles and the edges turn golden brown.

    6. Flip the pancakes and cook the other side. Cook until the pancakes are golden brown and cooked through.

    7. Serve with butter, warm syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

    Pancakes, Waffles, & French Toast
    American
    apple cinnamon buttermilk pancakes, apple cinnamon pancakes, buttermilk pancakes

    Pin the recipe for later!

    Apple Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe
  • Cheesy Baked Frittata with Ham, Peppers, and Tomatoes

    Cheesy Baked Frittata with Ham, Peppers, and Tomatoes

    A cheesy baked frittata with ham, peppers, and tomatoes makes the perfect breakfast, brunch, or dinner recipe. Eggs are my go to healthy food, especially when I’m out of ideas or whenever I’m just not feelin’ what’s planned on the menu.

    Eggs are one of my favorite foods, and I’m not just saying that. I mean, think about it…. they taste so good, they’re filling, they’re full of protein, and they’re so healthy. I can hardly function without my morning breakfast of eggs and toast. Of course, sometimes I love making something “breakfast-y” for dinner too…. or even a weekend brunch, especially when we have a lot of extra eggs on hand. A Cheesy Baked Frittata is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner and incorporates fresh veggies like onion, peppers, and tomatoes.



    Harvest time is the perfect time to make this particular frittata. It’s packed full of flavor with fresh chopped peppers and tomatoes. Queso Fresco also adds quite the cheesy punch.

    A cheesy baked frittata with ham, peppers, and tomatoes makes the perfect breakfast, brunch, or dinner recipe. Eggs are my go to healthy food, especially when I’m out of ideas or whenever I’m just not feelin’ what’s planned on the menu.

    I normally keep a weekly menu on the fridge, but sometimes we’re just not feelin’ what I’d planned at the start of the week. You know how it goes. Either it doesn’t sound good, or we’re feeling a little lazy. On weeknights when we’re just not sure what to eat for dinner, eggs usually make the cut. Whether we make a breakfast bake, breakfast for dinner, or egg sandwiches, they’re just so versatile and easy.

    Below you’ll find a printable recipe for this Cheesy Baked Frittata. Enjoy!

    Hungry for more breakfast recipes?

    A cheesy baked frittata with ham, peppers, and tomatoes makes the perfect breakfast, brunch, or dinner recipe. Eggs are my go to healthy food, especially when I’m out of ideas or whenever I’m just not feelin’ what’s planned on the menu.

    Cheesy Baked Frittata with Ham, Peppers, and Tomatoes

    A Cheesy Baked Frittata is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner and incorporates fresh veggies like onion, peppers, and tomatoes.

    • 10-12 eggs
    • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
    • 3-4 small to medium peppers (chopped)
    • 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
    • 2 to matoes (chopped)
    • 5-6 slices ham
    • 10 oz. Queso Fresco
    • Salt & Pepper
    1. Pre-heat oven to 350°.
    2. Wash and chop peppers, onion, and tomatoes. Set aside.
    3. Beat eggs and whipping cream together in medium sized bowl. Add a dash of salt and pepper.
    4. Tear ham into bite-sized pieces and add to egg mixture.
    5. Add chopped veggies.
    6. Crumble Queso Fresco into mixture.
    7. Pour into greased, oven-safe skillet, and bake at 350° for about 1 hour, or until eggs are set and cooked to temperature.
    8. Serve while warm and enjoy!
    Breakfast & Brunch
    American
    baked frittata, cheesy frittata, cheesy frittata with ham
  • Lemon Poke Cake (without the Pudding)

    Lemon Poke Cake (without the Pudding)

    It’s funny, creating this recipe kinda happened by accident. I was actually making my grandma’s lemon poke cake recipe, and I thought I had all the right ingredients. I’d even remembered to pick up the cake mix, which is usually the one thing I forget.

    Not so. This time I forgot to get a lemon pudding mix. Not to be deterred, I decided to make it anyway, only in a slightly different way. My guys ended up loving this lemon poke cake, claiming it’s one of the best cakes I’ve made in awhile. 

    Grab the recipe for a lemon poke cake without any pudding mix. Cake mix recipe inspired by Grandma’s lemon cake. So scrumptious!

    Ok, so I’ll be honest. Any lemon cake, especially this lemon cake, is even better the next day. Aging an extra day suits a good lemon cake. So, if you can hold out, I recommend making it the night before and enjoying the next day. Just my two cents.

    Grab the recipe for a lemon poke cake without any pudding mix. Cake mix recipe inspired by Grandma’s lemon cake. So scrumptious!

    Instead of an instant pudding mix and water, I decided to substitute lemon juice and a lemon extract we had on hand. Now, here I could have kicked myself again because if I’d been thinking clearly, I would have used my Lemon essential oil. But I wasn’t, so extract it was. Hey, it still turned out to be a very scrumptious cake.



    It is a bit of a heavier cake, so a small slice will do. I could have almost made this in a bundt pan, as the texture really reminded me of a pound cake. A regular 13×9 pan will do, though.

    Grab the recipe for a lemon poke cake without any pudding mix. Cake mix recipe inspired by Grandma’s lemon cake. So scrumptious!

    Grab the printable recipe, start mixing, and enjoy!

    Lemon Poke Cake (without the Pudding)

    Grab the recipe for a lemon poke cake without any pudding mix. Cake mix recipe inspired by Grandma’s lemon cake. So scrumptious!

    Cake:

    • 1 yellow cake mix
    • 4 eggs
    • 3/4 cup lemon juice
    • 3/4 cup canola oil
    • 1 tbsp. lemon extract (or you can substitute a smaller amount of Lemon essential oil)

    Icing:

    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • Juice of 2 lemons (or about 6 tbsp. lemon juice)
    1. Mix cake mix, eggs, and lemon juice, beating for 2 minutes. Add canola oil and lemon extract, and beat for another 2 minutes.
    2. Bake at 350° for about 30-40 minutes in loaf, bundt, or cake pan (I used a 13×9 pan).
    3. While cake is baking, mix up icing.
    4. When cake is done and while still hot, prick with fork all over.
    5. Spoon on icing, spreading over entire cake.
    6. Serve and enjoy!
    Cakes & Cupcakes
    American
    lemon cake without pudding, lemon poke cake

    Can’t make it just yet? Pin it for later!

    Grab the recipe for a lemon poke cake without any pudding mix. Cake mix recipe inspired by Grandma’s lemon cake. So scrumptious!
  • Fresh Tomato Salsa with Basil

    Fresh Tomato Salsa with Basil

    Let’s make easy homemade salsa with basil, fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic, and peppers in 30 minutes or less. It’s the best summer or anytime appetizer; enjoy with tortilla chips, on tacos, in scrambled eggs, and more!

    My family could eat salsa for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Case in point… I made a big bowl of basil salsa, and it was nearly gone by the end of the day. We love all salsas, including fruit salsa!

    salsa with basil in blue bowl with tortilla chips

    With tomatoes and peppers from our garden, I can make tomato basil salsa in no time at all. My tomatoes are all different colors, so they add a lot of color to the salsa, which reminds me of my colorful and fresh mango peach salsa recipe.

    For awhile now, I’ve had an obsession with basil. I put it in my eggs, on grilled cheese, on tomatoes, on chicken, on our pizzas, and more. Basil has sorta become a staple in my house. So, it’s only natural to make fresh basil tomato salsa.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • The best part about this salsa recipe is, once your veggies are washed and seeds removed from the peppers, you plop everything into the blender and let it do all the heavy lifting. I use my Ninja blender, and it works like a charm.
    • I love a chunky salsa, and this salsa has a slightly chunky consistency, perfect for dipping!
    • Most of the ingredients you’ll need are fresh ingredients, and there are only 8 ingredients total.
    tomato basil salsa in blue bowl with tortilla chips dipped and in bag to side

    Ingredient Notes

    • Onion – I prefer the spicy sweet flavor and crispness of a red onion for salsa.
    • Peppers – You’ll need a green bell pepper (though you can use any color you have on hand, including purple), a jalepeño pepper, and a chili pepper. They’ll need to be sliced open, stemmed, and de-seeded.
    • Tomatoes – Generally, ripe but not wrinkled Roma or Amish Paste tomatoes are best for salsa… Amish Paste have a slightly sweeter flavor than Roma. You can use grape or cherry tomatoes for salsa, but they are going to give a sweeter flavor. You can also mix grape/cherry tomatoes with Roma or Amish Paste to give more depth to the flavor of your salsa.
    • Basil – Fresh is best!
    • Garlic – Again, fresh is best.

    How to Make Salsa with Basil

    There is a bit of prep involved, mainly washing the vegetables you plan to use, then chopping and slicing as needed.

    To make tomato salsa with basil, just follow these steps…

    1. Peel the onion and slice it into quarters.
    2. Slice the bell peppers, jalapeño, and chili pepper open; carefully remove all the seeds.
    3. Chop the tomatoes into quarters.
    4. If using fresh garlic, peel and slice; or you can use already minced fresh garlic.
    5. Place all the ingredients, including the onion, peppers, tomatoes, basil, garlic, and salt, in a blender.
    6. Pulse the blender until the salsa has the desired chunky texture and consistency.
    7. Serve with tortilla chips, on crostini with mozzarella, as a topping for camping walking tacos or beef tacos or chicken tacos, on baked or grilled fish fillets, on scrambled eggs, to make taco chicken, as a topping on CrockPot enchilada casserole, or whatever else your heart desires. This salsa also makes a tasty addition to your next mashed potato bar or baked potato bar.
    basil salsa on blue tortilla chip over blue bowl of salsa

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Should I add vinegar to homemade salsa and why?

    Since this is more of a fresh salsa, you don’t need to add vinegar. But if you were canning this recipe, you’d definitely want to make sure there’s enough acidity for canning, and that’s why vinegar or lemon juice is added to canned salsa. I’d refer you to the Ball Book of Canning and Preserving for more information.

    Why is my homemade salsa not red?

    Color may depend on the color of the peppers and tomatoes that you use. Color is also affected by the amount of air that blending adds into your salsa as it blends. So it may not be a bright red color when all is said and done.

    Do I need to peel the tomatoes for salsa?

    Nope. In fact, leaving the peeling will add more texture, more nutrients, and more flavor.

    Should salsa be cooked?

    No, not this recipe. The fresher, the better, especially for flavor.

    How do you store salsa, and how long will it keep?

    You can store it in an airtight container like a mason jar with a lid; be sure to keep it in the fridge. A jar of salsa should keep for 6-7 days in the fridge.

    blue bowl full of basil tomato salsa with tortilla chips dipped in side

    More Easy Tex-Mex Appetizers:

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Tomato Salsa with Basil

    Make easy homemade salsa with basil, fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic, and peppers in 30 minutes or less. The best summer or anytime appetizer!

    • Chef Knife
    • Cutting Board
    • Blender
    • 1 small red onion
    • 1 green bell pepper
    • 1 jalapeño pepper
    • 1 chili pepper
    • 4 cups Roma tomatoes (quartered)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt

    1. Peel the onion and slice it into quarters.

    2. Slice the bell peppers, jalapeño, and chili pepper open; carefully remove all the seeds.

    3. Chop the tomatoes into quarters.

    4. If using fresh garlic, peel and slice; or you can use already minced fresh garlic.

    5. Place all the ingredients, including the onion, peppers, tomatoes, basil, garlic, and salt, in a blender.

    6. Pulse the blender until the salsa has the desired chunky texture and consistency.

    7. Serve with tortilla chips or whatever your heart desires.

    Do I need to peel the tomatoes for salsa?

    Nope. In fact, leaving the peeling will add more texture, more nutrients, and more flavor.

    How do you store salsa, and how long will it keep?

    You can store it in an airtight container like a mason jar with a lid; be sure to keep it in the fridge. A jar of salsa should keep for 6-7 days in the fridge.

    Appetizers
    Tex-Mex
    basil salsa, basil tomato salsa, salsa recipe, salsa with basil, tomato basil salsa
  • Red White and Blue Popsicles with Real Ingredients

    Red White and Blue Popsicles with Real Ingredients

    Make the yummiest red white and blue popsicles with real food ingredients. No artificial colors, no added sugar, and they’re perfect for the 4th of July!

    Summer weather is here to stay, meaning my boys are making frequent trips to the freezer to look for homemade ice cream and freezer pops.

    red white and blue popsicles on wire rack with fresh strawberries

    Zeke could practically live on popsicles in the summer, and sometimes we have a hard time limiting him to just one or two, especially on hot, humid, sticky days like we’ve had here lately.

    Since the 4th of July is just around the corner, I thought it might be fun to make naturally colored red white blue freeze pops, festive for this patriotic occasion! 

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • It’s so easy to make; your kids can even help you.
    • Red white and blue pops only have 3 ingredients!
    • All the ingredients are real food… No artificial colors, no added sugar… Like with my mandarin peach fruit pops, you can feel good about letting your kids eat these natural freezer pops.
    red white and blue pops on a wire rack with fresh berries

    Ingredient Notes

    • Fresh Berries – We use fresh strawberries and blueberries to make red white and blue ice pops.
    • Greek Yogurt – While we prefer to use a honey strawberry flavor, you can use any flavor you want.

    How to Make Red White and Blue Popsicles

    Before you get started, be sure to wash all your berries and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

    Then you can mix and make by following these steps…

    1. Slice or chop the strawberries and crush with a potato masher.
    2. Mix the strawberries with 1/4 cup Greek yogurt and set aside.
    3. Crush the blueberries in a separate bowl.
    4. Mix the blueberries with 1/4 cup Greek yogurt and set aside.
    5. For the first (RED) layer, place 1-2 spoonfuls strawberry/yogurt mixture in each freezer pop mold. How many spoonfuls you add to each layer will depend on the size of your freezer pop mold.
    6. For the second (WHITE) layer, add 1-2 spoonfuls of Greek yogurt (no berries) next.
    7. For the third and final (BLUE) layer, add 1-2 spoonfuls blueberry/yogurt mixture.
    8. Add the popsicle sticks and freeze overnight or until frozen through. Then serve and enjoy!
    red white and blue ice pops on wire rack with fresh strawberries

    More festive 4th of July desserts you may enjoy:

    Love red white and blue ice pops and want to make more festive desserts? Here are a few ideas…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Red White and Blue Popsicles

    How to make the yummiest red white and blue popsicles with real food ingredients. No colors, no added sugar, and perfect for the 4th of July!

    • Popsicle Molds
    • Potato Masher
    • Mixing Bowl
    • 10 large strawberries
    • 1 cup blueberries
    • 1 cup Greek yogurt (your favorite flavor)

    1. Wash all the berries and pat dry.

    2. Slice or chop the strawberries and crush with a potato masher.

    3. Mix the strawberries with 1/4 cup Greek yogurt and set aside.

    4. Crush the blueberries in a separate bowl.

    5. Mix the blueberries with 1/4 cup Greek yogurt and set aside.

    6. For the first (RED) layer, place 1-2 spoonfuls strawberry/yogurt mixture in each freezer pop mold. How many spoonfuls you add to each layer will depend on the size of your freezer pop mold.

    7. For the second (WHITE) layer, add 1-2 spoonfuls of Greek yogurt (no berries) next.

    8. For the third and final (BLUE) layer, add 1-2 spoonfuls blueberry/yogurt mixture.

    9. Add the popsicle sticks and freeze overnight or until frozen through. Then serve and enjoy!

    Desserts, Frozen Treats
    American
    4th of July freezer pops, red white and blue freezer pops, red white and blue frozen yogurt pops, red white and blue ice pops, red white and blue pops, red white and blue popsicles
  • Layered Salad with Whatever Layers You Want

    Layered Salad with Whatever Layers You Want

    Layered salad… Every family get-together, my aunt would make a 7 layer salad that was so delicious. Everyone looked forward to it, as we’d heap spoonfuls of the creamy deliciousness onto our plates.

    This layered salad recipe, that I’m about to share with you, is one way I’ve found to get my youngest to eat his veggies. He can’t get enough of this salad.

    Layered Salad is the perfect salad recipe for family get-togethers, parties, or that next barbecue. You can add whatever types of layers you want, whether it’s cauliflower, peas, lettuce, bacon, or whatever else your heart desires.

    While this recipe comes from a family cookbook made for us as a wedding gift, I’m not sure it’s the same recipe my aunt made. It seems a little different but still similar in some ways.

    Either way, it’s a family favorite and perfect for upcoming barbecues, Thanksgiving dinner, and Easter dinner too. We love to serve up this layered salad with garlic parmesan chicken kabobs, crock pot sloppy joes, oven-baked chicken drumsticks, or even just a weeknight roast beef Philly cheesesteak, meatloaf muffin or CrockPot pork roast!

    Layered Salad is the perfect salad recipe for family get-togethers, parties, or that next barbecue. You can add whatever types of layers you want, whether it’s cauliflower, peas, lettuce, bacon, or whatever else your heart desires.

    The best thing about this layered salad is that you can add however many types of ingredients you want. You could add boiled eggs, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, cheese, cucumbers… There’s no end to the amount and types of layers you could add.

    Looking for more salad recipes? Here are a few you may enjoy.

    Layered Salad is the perfect salad recipe for family get-togethers, parties, or that next barbecue. You can add whatever types of layers you want, whether it’s cauliflower, peas, lettuce, bacon, or whatever else your heart desires.

    Grab the printable recipe below, get creating with your layers, and enjoy!

    Layered Salad Recipe

    Layered Salad is the perfect salad recipe for family get-togethers, parties, or your next BBQ. Add whatever types of layers you want, including cauliflower, peas, lettuce, bacon, or whatever else your heart desires.

    Salad:

    • 1 head iceberg lettuce (chopped)
    • 12 ounces frozen peas (thawed)
    • 1 head cauliflower (chopped)
    • 6 green onions (chopped)
    • 1 pound bacon (cooked, crumbled, and cooled)

    Dressing:

    • 1 cup sour cream
    • 1 cup Miracle Whip ((or salad dressing))
    • 1 ounce Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix
    • 1/2 cup whole milk

    1. Wash and prep the ingredients.

    2. In a large bowl, layer the vegetables and bacon, making sure all the veggies are dry when you add them.

    3. In a separate mixing bowl or large measuring cup, mix the dressing ingredients, including the sour cream, Miracle Whip, dressing mix, and milk.

    4. Spread the dressing on top of the salad, putting small tablespoons randomly around on top of the salad; then spread out with a spoon or spatula.

    5. Cover with plastic wrap, and chill overnight or all day.

    6. When ready to serve, stir the dressing into the salad, blending well with all the ingredients.

    7. Serve with dinner!

    Salad Recipes, Side Dish
    American
    7 layer salad, layered salad seven layer salad

    Can’t make it just yet? Pin it for later!

    Layered Salad is the perfect salad recipe for family get-togethers, parties, or your next BBQ. You can add whatever types of layers you want, including cauliflower, peas, lettuce, bacon, or whatever else your heart desires.
  • 30+ Scrumptiously Easy Camping Recipes

    30+ Scrumptiously Easy Camping Recipes

    Going camping? Here are 30+ easy camping recipes to gather ’round the campfire. All kinds of camping food ideas, including camping breakfast ideas, camping dinner ideas, yummy campfire desserts, and camping snacks too!

    When we go on a camping trip, we like to eat well, but we also like to eat cheap. We prefer to spend more money exploring the area we’re in or eating like a local.

    easy camping recipes, including peach cobbler, breakfast burritos, sugar cone s'mores, Hawaiian pizza, and chicken nachos

    Table of Contents

    A Few Tips for How to Eat Cheap While Camping

    • Pack all or most of your food with you. More than likely, you’re going to spend less money in your local grocery store than you will upon entering a grocery store you’ve never explored before.
    • Keep it simple. Find ways to use less ingredients, like using canned peaches in this campfire peach cobbler. No need to drag along a bunch of fresh fruit, just to be cut up and cooked in a cobbler.
    • Stock up on hot dogs. Yep, pack those puppies in the cooler and enjoy every bite. My guys love hot dogs, and I think it’s safe to say they could eat them every meal if I’d let them. Switch them up by mixing them with baked beans for beanie weanies, or cooking them with a pack of stir fry veggies for a somewhat healthier meal. I love a good Chicago dog myself.
    • Don’t forget the peanut butter. Make lunch easy, going old school with peanut butter and jelly! Peanut butter is great for energy levels too, something we all need when we’re outdoors.
    • Make use of potatoes. You can bake them, fry them in a skillet, bake them, or make crispy seasoned steak fries with them. They’re very versatile and a great way to spend less money.

    Can we just take a moment to savor the memory of easy campfire meals gone by? Oh how I love a good campfire.

    Easy Camping Recipes Anyone Can Make

    Whether it’s a backyard campfire or you’re hitting the road for a full-on camping trip, here are 30+ camping recipes that’ll have the whole family ready to gather ’round the fire.

    Camping Snacks and Appetizers

    Who doesn’t love a bag full of easy finger foods while relaxing in the great outdoors?

    [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40091″ name=”Crispy Seasoned Steak Fries over the Campfire” button=”Get the Recipe”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://homemadeheather.com/campfire-spinach-dip/” name=”Campfire Spinach Dip” summary=”<p>Make this simple campfire spinach dip in a foil packet for easy cleanup. Serve it with a toasted baguette, and you've got the perfect camping snack.</p>” image=”51801″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://sprinklesomefun.com/hersheys-smore-trail-mix-go-camping-series-1/” name=”Hershey’s S’more Trail Mix” summary=”<p>Mix together chocolate, graham crackers, pecans, and mini marshmallows for a delicious hiking or camping snack!</p>” image=”51802″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://homemadeheather.com/dehydrated-fruit-trail-mix/” name=”Dehydrated Fruit Trail Mix” summary=”<p>This dehydrated fruit trail mix is the perfect snack for camping, backpacking, and road trips. It’s easy to make in a food dehydrator!</p>” image=”51803″]

    Camping Drinks and Beverages

    [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”51947″ name=”How to Make Campfire Coffee” summary=”<p>Learn how to make campfire coffee in a percolator pot over a campfire. Plus the best percolator pots for the job.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://homemadeheather.com/mojito-recipe-for-camping/” name=”Camping Mojitos” summary=”<p>This camping mojito recipe makes things a bit easier for those of us who may be attempting to make a mojito in the great outdoors.</p>” image=”51805″]

    Easy Camping Breakfast Ideas

    Pack ingredients for the best meal of the day, a hearty breakfast ’round the campfire…

    [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40596″ name=”Easy Omelet Breakfast Muffin” summary=”<p>Cheesy delicious omelet breakfast sandwich made with eggs, salsa, cheese, and English muffins. Family favorite breakfast on the campstove!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39758″ name=”Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Camping Breakfast Burritos” summary=”<p>Make the best camping breakfast burritos filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and all the bacon. Quick and easy recipe for mornings around the campfire.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41030″ name=”Two Ways to Make Easy Bisquick Campfire Drop Biscuits” summary=”<p>How to make quick and easy drop biscuits, using a Dutch oven or pie iron, on the grill or over a campfire. Simple Bisquick recipe for deliciously fluffy biscuits.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40982″ name=”Campfire Cinnamon Rolls” summary=”<p>Two simple ways to make campfire cinnamon rolls. Ooey gooey, deliciously easy camping recipe you can make ahead and cook outdoors!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://homemadeheather.com/camping-breakfast-burrito/” name=”Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burrito” summary=”<p>This delicious breakfast burrito recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or just a few. Simply make them ahead, pack in a cooler, and reheat for breakfast!</p>” image=”51806″]

    Camping Dinner Ideas

    Pick up a few ideas for deliciously easy camping meals…

    [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39941″ name=”Walking Camping Tacos” summary=”<p>How to make the best camping tacos for a simple and easy campfire dinner. Walking tacos in a bag with taco meat and your favorite toppings.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39782″ name=”Quick and Easy Grilled Taco Tuna Melt” summary=”<p>Easy taco tuna melt recipe, made with a secret ingredient, melted cheese, avocado, and English muffins. Make it on the grill or over the campfire.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39675″ name=”Quick and Easy Campfire Hawaiian Pizza” summary=”<p>How to make campfire Hawaiian pizza. Just 5 ingredients and a cast iron skillet are all you need for this simple and easy ham and pineapple pizza recipe.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39633″ name=”Ultimate Campfire Bacon Cheeseburger” summary=”<p>How to make the ultimate homemade bacon cheeseburger while you're camping. Skillet or grilled, cooking tips and toppings ideas, all in one easy recipe.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39794″ name=”Classic Grilled Chicago Hot Dog” summary=”<p>How to cook a delicious Chicago hot dog, char dog style. Grilled beef hot dogs recipe with all the best toppings and poppy seed buns. Perfect for a crowd!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39873″ name=”Loaded Campfire Nachos with Chicken” summary=”<p>Loaded campfire nachos, with shredded chicken and hummus, are a cheesy delicious camping meal everyone will love. Easy campfire recipe with all the best toppings!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39880″ name=”Hamburger Pizza on a Campfire” summary=”<p>Make the best homemade hamburger pizza on a campfire. Easy campfire pizza with ketchup, mustard, and pickles, cooked in a cast iron skillet.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39888″ name=”Easy Pizza Dough for the Campfire” summary=”<p>Quick and easy pizza dough recipe for the best homemade campfire pizza in a cast iron skillet. Grilled or wood fired, thick or thin crust, and no mixer!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.thekimsixfix.com/2015/02/campfire-italian-garden-vegetable-soup.html” name=”Campfire Italian Garden Vegetable Soup” summary=”<p>This recipe for Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup needs no preparation or running water. You literally open 7 cans and heat. It's that easy. </p>” image=”51807″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.spendwithpennies.com/santa-fe-chicken-packets/” name=”Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets” summary=”<p>Chicken foil packets are the perfect summer grilling meal! With heart-healthy pieces of chicken, zesty seasonings, and a handful of beans and veggies, an entire entrée can be made in no time at all with no dishes!</p>” image=”51809″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://myheavenlyrecipes.com/steak-chicken-kabobs/” name=”Super Simple Steak and Chicken Kabobs” summary=”<p>Stress-free steak and chicken kabob recipe that's heavenly and prepped in just minutes. Cooking and clean up are a breeze!</p>” image=”51810″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://confessionsofanover-workedmom.com/how-to-grill-pizza-and-wow-your-kids/” name=”How to Grill Pizza” summary=”<p>Learn how to grill pizza on the charcoal grill. It's ridiculously easy, and it's absolutely delicious!</p>” image=”51811″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.galonamission.com/campfire-potatoes/” name=”Campfire Potatoes” summary=”<p>Amazing campfire potatoes that are so easy to put together. Make them in foil packs with simple ingredients, including a little spicy kick.</p>” image=”51812″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.platingpixels.com/barbecue-chicken-kebabs/” name=”Barbecue Cumin Chicken Kebabs” summary=”<p>Stoke the grill and get your outdoor gourmet on with cumin barbecue chicken kebabs. Serve with a peanut lime dipping sauce if desired.</p>” image=”51813″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.artsyfartsymama.com/2012/09/dutch-oven-beef-biscuits.html” name=”Dutch Oven Beef and Biscuits” summary=”<p>Fill your Dutch oven with a sloppy joe meat mixture topped with homemade or canned biscuits. Add a little shredded cheese on top before you eat!</p>” image=”51814″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.platingpixels.com/lemon-and-dill-barbecue-salmon-kabobs/” name=”Grilled Salmon Kabobs” summary=”<p>Vinegar, lemon juice and zest add a nice zing to grilled salmon kabobs. Add a little fresh dill, marinate in the cooler, and grill to perfection!</p>” image=”51815″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://homemadeheather.com/campfire-philly-cheesesteak-sandwich/” name=”Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich” summary=”<p>This yummy campfire Philly cheesesteak sandwich recipe is perfect for a family camping trip! Simply wrap it in a tinfoil packet to make an easy camping meal in minutes.</p>” image=”51816″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.midlifehealthyliving.com/3-cheese-bacon-campfire-potatoes/” name=”3 Cheese Bacon Campfire Potatoes” summary=”<p>Cheesy bacon campfire potatoes are super easy to make and delicious! This recipe makes cooking outdoors both easy and enjoyable.</p>” image=”51817″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://suzyssitcom.com/2014/07/teriyaki-orange-beef-shish-kebabs-an-easy-camping-recipe.html” name=”Teriyaki Orange Beef Shish Kebabs” summary=”<p>Teriyaki orange beef shish kebabs have a sweet and spicy mix of flavor with the tang of teriyaki and the sweetness of marmalade. Simple easy camping meal that's fun to eat too!</p>” image=”51818″]

    Easy Camping Desserts

    Just because you’re sleeping in the great outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t have dessert…

    [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”43220″ name=”Dutch Oven Blueberry Cobbler with Just 2 Ingredients” summary=”<p>Easy Dutch oven blueberry cobbler with only 2 simple ingredients, including pie filling. Quick and easy camping recipe perfect for a campfire dessert.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39864″ name=”Easy Campfire Peach Cobbler Recipe” summary=”<p>How to make an easy peach cobbler recipe with canned peaches and homemade pie crust crumbled on top. Family favorite campfire dessert recipes!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39968″ name=”Toasted S’mores Dip” summary=”<p>How to make kid-friendly s'mores dip over a campfire, on the grill, on the stove, or in the oven at home. Easy skillet dessert recipe you can enjoy anytime.</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40986″ name=”Grilled Banana Campfire S’mores” summary=”<p>Fun way to make s'mores while camping! How to make banana boats s'mores over the campfire, using chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham crackers!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40978″ name=”Campfire Sugar Cone S’mores” summary=”<p>How to make yummy campfire sugar cone s'mores. All you need are ice cream cones, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows for this easy camping dessert!</p>”] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://satoridesignforliving.com/camping-dessert-skillet-smore-brownies//” name=”Skillet S’more Brownies” summary=”<p>Bake these decadent ooey-gooey skillet s’more brownies on the grill. A fun and delicious camping dessert recipe for kids of all ages!</p>” image=”51819″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://whoneedsacape.com/2015/04/peanut-butter-cup-smores/” name=”Peanut Butter Cup S’mores” summary=”<p>Pair peanut butter cups with ooey gooey marshmallows that melt together and create the best s'mores ever. </p>” image=”51820″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”http://www.simplybudgeted.com/2013/10/campfire-dump-cake/” name=”Campfire Dump Cake” summary=”<p>All you need to make this easy campfire dump cake are a cake mix and pie filling. Dump in a Dutch oven and cook over the campfire. Easy peasy!</p>” image=”51821″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.myturnforus.com/dutch-oven-texas-peach-cobbler/” name=”Texas Peach Cobbler in a Dutch Oven” summary=”<p>This Texas peach cobbler is made outside in a Dutch oven and cooked over a campfire for a cowboy cobbler over the coals.</p>” image=”51822″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://pizzazzerie.com/recipes/how-to-make-less-mess-smores/” name=”Walking S’mores for Less Mess” summary=”<p>Make less of a mess with yummy walking s'mores, perfect for kids to enjoy all that chocolaty marshmallow goodness.</p>” image=”51823″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://thriftyjinxy.com/smores-cones-recipe-perfect-for-campfire-bbq-grill-or-oven/” name=”S’mores Cones” summary=”<p>This yummy s'mores cones recipe is perfect for the campfire, BBQ grill or oven. Make them with sugar or waffle cones for a special treat!</p>” image=”51824″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.almostsupermom.com/10-minute-chocolate-covered-strawberry-smores/” name=”10 Minute Chocolate Covered Strawberry S’mores” summary=”<p>Chocolate and strawberries make a natural combination, so they're the perfect ingredients to take your classic s'more to the next level.</p>” image=”51825″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.coffeewithus3.com/grilled-caramel-apple-crunch/” name=”Grilled Caramel Apple Crunch” summary=”<p>Make grilled caramel apple crunch in foil packets. Make the packs ahead, and put in the cooler 'til you're ready to cook them on the grill or over the coals.</p>” image=”51826″] [wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://amandascookin.com/brownies-in-cast-iron-skillet/” name=”Brownies in a Cast Iron Skillet” summary=”<p>If you're a fan of chewy, fudge-like brownies, you’ll love these skillet brownies. Thick, chewy, rich and no bowls needed. Everything happens in the cast iron skillet.</p>” image=”51827″]

    More Camping Ideas, Tips, and Tricks:

    I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to leave a comment, and follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You can subscribe to my email list too.

  • Tex-Mex Omelette Recipe

    Tex-Mex Omelette Recipe

    An omelette breakfast is a family favorite. How to make Tex-Mex omelettes using tenderloin tips, vegetables, and cheeses. Breakfast just got tastier than ever.

    Breakfast is one of my favorite meals of the day, especially on a holiday or a weekend when we might be a little more free to do as we wish. I love a good omelette, and Dan makes the absolute best omelettes in the world. When you combine Tex-Mex and the ever delicious omelette… well, you’ve got a winning omelette recipe and a yummy breakfast idea.

    An omelette breakfast is a family favorite. How to make Tex-Mex omelettes using tenderloin tips, vegetables, and cheeses. Breakfast just got tastier than ever.

    Usually we just add a few veggies and a little cheese to our omelettes. Sometimes we’ll add a little ham or bacon. This time, however, we used tenderloin tips we picked up at our local meat shop. The tenderloin adds flavor like no other, especially when combined with different cheeses and vegetables.

    An omelette breakfast is a family favorite. How to make Tex-Mex omelettes using tenderloin tips, vegetables, and cheeses. Breakfast just got tastier than ever.

    Below you’ll find the printable recipe. Memorial Day is coming up. What better way to celebrate than with an omelette to start your day?!

    IF YOU LOVE THIS TEX-MEX OMELETTE RECIPE, TRY SOME OF OUR OTHER BREAKFAST FAVORITES:

    Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Muffin Cups

    McDonald’s Egg McMuffin (Copycat Recipe)

    Low Carb Sausage Egg Muffins

    Easy Omelet Breakfast Muffin

    Tex-Mex Omelette

    An omelette breakfast is a family favorite. How to make Tex-Mex omelettes using tenderloin tips, vegetables, and cheese. Breakfast just got tastier than ever.

    • 2 eggs/omelette
    • 1 lb. tenderloin tips
    • 5-6 small peppers
    • 5-7 green onions
    • 2-3 to matoes
    • 10 oz. Queso Fresco
    • 2-4 oz. shredded Cheddar cheese
    • 2-4 oz. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
    • Cilantro
    • Avocado
    • Sour cream and salsa
    1. Wash and chop peppers, green onions, and tomatoes.
    2. Sauté peppers and green onions for 3-5 minutes, or until tender; remove and set aside.
    3. Cook tenderloin tips in skillet until done to preference.
    4. Combine peppers and green onions with meat; remove and set aside.
    5. Beat 2 eggs/omelette.
    6. Pour enough egg for 1 omelette into small skillet; sprinkle with Queso Fresco, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until done on one side.
    7. Flip omelette over and cook other side for 2-3 minutes or until nearly done on that side.
    8. Add small amount of filling, including tenderloin tips, peppers, green onions, tomatoes, Cheddar, and Monterey Jack, to half of one side of the omelette.
    9. Close omelette by folding over. Cook for 1-2 minutes more or until cheeses begin to melt and inside of omelette is hot.
    10. Serve immediately with cilantro, avocado, sour cream, and salsa. Enjoy!
    Breakfast & Brunch
    Tex-Mex
    omelet recipe, steak omelet, Tex-Mex omelet, Tex-Mex omelette
  • Family Dinner: Creamy Tortellini Alfredo

    Family Dinner: Creamy Tortellini Alfredo

    Need a dinner idea that’ll get your whole family around the table tonight? I partnered with Bertolli® to share a delicious recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo.

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.

    When it comes to dinnertime, I’m just going to be honest. We don’t always sit down at the table together. Some nights we sit on the couch. It’s true. A recent conversation with other moms in our homeschool group gave me food for thought, no pun intended. That conversation, coupled with the opportunity to create a Tuscan-inspired, spring-inspired Alfredo dish, really motivated me to clear the table of all the school books, all the pencils and markers, and all the tests and papers. In the end, this Creamy Tortellini Alfredo was the clincher in bringing us back to the family table.

    The mission: “Bring Tuscany to your Table”… It has been a lifelong dream of mine to some day visit Tuscany. I’ve only ever seen photos of this beautiful place; in fact, the calendar above my desk is filled with beautiful photos of Tuscany. I can imagine that it must be a very peaceful part of Italy with rolling hills and luscious, beautiful colors… warm and inviting. I can only imagine what the food must be like; I’m certain if I ever visited Tuscany, I’d probably never want to leave.

    It’s that same peaceful feeling that I wanted to bring to our family meals (you know, the one when you stare into the photo on your calendar and imagine you’re there breathing in the scents, warm sun shining down, a slight breeze wisping hair about your face). The dinner table should be something to look forward to, a place to catch up, a place to be at home.

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.
    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.
    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.

    Creating a simple yet warm, inviting table scape was my first priority. And you know, for a table to be inviting, it doesn’t have to be fancy. I’m quite certain I only own 1 complete set of place mats. So, I chose to go the eclectic route, mixing and matching. Adding a plate, silverware, and glasses for each person came next. Of course, what table would be complete without a beautiful centerpiece? For this simple centerpiece, I grabbed my pruning shears and went out to the back yard to cut a few flowers. We have a bush that’s filled with beautiful pink blooms right now, and a mason jar makes the perfect vase for fresh cut flowers.

    After clearing the table and setting it up for the meal, it’s time to make dinner. Again, dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, this dinner was so simple, easy to make, and delicious, we all agreed it’s going to become a regular meal.

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.
    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.
    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.

    Creamy Tortellini Alfredo is a rather quick meal. Creating a simpler meal just means you have more time together as a family. To make this dish, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Slice the sausage links and add to a skillet, along with the peas. Once the tortellini has been cooked and drained, add it in with the peas and sausage. Add a jar of Bertolli® Creamy Alfredo Sauce, along with basil; mix together well. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the ingredients are well heated.

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.
    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.

    This pasta is so delicious with a little Parmesan sprinkled on top. Since we don’t like wine, we paired our pasta with a little bit of sparkling grape juice… It was delicious! It was one meal that even our picky 7 year old loved; he actually asked for seconds and not dessert. How often does that happen?!

    More Pasta Dishes You May Enjoy:

    Grab the printable recipe below!

    Creamy Tortellini Alfredo

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love.

    • 1 pkg. frozen cheese tortellini
    • 8-10 oz. fresh or frozen peas
    • 1 pkg. smoked sausage link
    • 1 jar Bertolli Creamy Alfredo Sauce
    • 1 tsp. basil
    • Parmesan cheese
    1. Cook tortellini, according to package directions.
    2. Slice smoked sausage link/s.
    3. Add peas and sausage links to large skillet.
    4. Drain tortellini and add to skillet, along with Bertolli Creamy Alfredo Sauce.
    5. Add basil and mix ingredients together in skillet.
    6. Cook on low to medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
    7. Serve with Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. Enjoy!
    Pasta
    Italian
    creamy tortellini alfredo, sausage tortellini alfredo, tortellini alfredo

    Can’t Make it Just Yet? Pin It for Later!

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.

    Visit Bertolli for More Dinner Time Inspiration!

    Bertolli

    Viva Bertolli® and join me in celebrating delicious Italian food, friends and family. Felice Anniversario and Buono Appetito! Visit Bertolli on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter for more inspirations and ideas to bring Tuscany to your table.

    Bring your family back to the dinner table with a spring inspired, Tuscany inspired recipe for Creamy Tortellini Alfredo, a simple family dinner recipe that takes very little time to make, giving you more time with the ones you love. And don’t forget to add a few special touches to the table; after all, it’s the little things in life that are worth celebrating.

    How will you “Bring Tuscany to your Table”? Do you have a special moment to commemorate?

  • How to Make Truffula Tree Cake Pops

    How to Make Truffula Tree Cake Pops

    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!

    If you’ve watched Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, you’ve seen those beautiful, colorful, cloud-like Truffula Trees. Well, back when I was in my cake pop making craze, I racked my brain for a creative cake pop idea. That’s when I remembered Earth Day…. and then I thought of The Lorax and how perfect Truffula Tree cake pops would be for this occasion. So, I set out to try to create these whimsical trees, in cake pop form.

    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!

    The process is quite simple, really. Anyone could make these. Below, you’ll find a printable recipe for the chocolate cake pops. The first step was to mix up my cake pop dough and heat up my Babycakes Cake Pop Maker. I chose to go the easy route in actually baking these cake pops, since I wasn’t sure how my process of creating the bushy trees would go.

    You’ll need a few supplies, including the following:
    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!

    • Cake pop dough (follow my recipe below)
    • Pastry bag
    • Candy Melts (I recommend Wilton)
    • Paper Straws
    • Cotton Candy (in as many colors as you can find)

    After mixing the dough, add a bit of dough to a pastry bag, which I’ve found to be the easiest way to add dough to the reservoirs in the cake pop maker. Follow your cake pop maker’s instructions for baking the cake balls. When the cake balls are baked, let cool on a paper towel. Once they’ve cooled, place on a cookie sheet in the freezer for about 10 minutes or until chilled well.

    Now it’s time for decorating. Dip a paper straw in melted candy melts, and insert the straw into a cake ball. Continue to dip the cake pop in the candy melts until coated well.

    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!
    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!
    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!

    Place the cake pop in a stand, and prepare a piece of cotton candy by pulling it and stretching it apart just a bit. Then wrap the cake pop while candy coating is still fresh. The cotton candy will stick to the candy coating and become your very own Truffula Tree. Be aware that the cotton candy will dry out and begin to harden when left out for a longer period of time; so you’d probably want to complete the steps of coating your cake pops and wrapping in cotton candy right before your party or event.

    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!

    These turned out so cute, and my boys absolutely loved them. They’d be perfect for an Earth Day celebration or even that next birthday party.

    Below you’ll find a printable recipe. Enjoy!

    Like this recipe? Go ahead and Pin it!


    Chocolate Truffula Tree Cake Pops

    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas.

    • 1 chocolate cake mix
    • 2 eggs
    • 1 pkg. chocolate pudding mix
    • 1/2-1 cup milk (in place of water on cake mix pkg.)
    • 1 bag candy melts
    • 6 cups cotton candy
    1. Mix all ingredients together, making sure your batter is fairly stiff, about the consistency of brownie batter. Do not add oil to the mixture.
    2. When cake batter is ready, add a little bit at a time to a pastry bag; this will make for easier filling of the cooking reservoirs in the cake pop maker.
    3. Heat up the cake pop maker, and wait for the green light to show that it’s ready.
    4. Give a light coating of cooking spray to each cooking reservoir in the cake pop maker; fill each reservoir with about 1 tablespoon of cake batter, trying not to overfill. Lower the lid on your cake pop maker, latching it shut. Then wait approximately 4-6 minutes per batch of cake balls.
    5. Use a pot holder to lift the lid because it can be quite hot to the touch. Use the provided fork to lift each cake ball out of the maker and onto a place to cool.
    6. Before decorating, place cake balls into the freezer for about 10 minutes.
    7. To decorate your cake balls as Truffula Trees, use candy melts and cotton candy. Melt the candy melts according to the directions on the package. Then remove cake balls from the freezer, and start decorating.
    8. Take a cake pop stick, dip it into the melted candy, and insert into the cake ball.
    9. Then dip each cake pop into the melted candy, coating well and allowing excess candy to drip before placing upright.
    10. Place each cake pop into a cake pop stand.
    11. Wrap your cake pops in cotton candy before the candy coating dries.
    12. Serve immediately after adding cotton candy and enjoy!
    Cakes & Cupcakes
    American
    chocolate cake pops, chocolate truffula tree cake pops, truffula tree cake pops

    Can’t make them just yet? Pin it for later!

    Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, make your own Truffula Tree Cake Pops, using cotton candy. Just in time for Earth Day or even a fun snack to add to your list of Dr. Seuss birthday party ideas. Scrumptious too!