How to make cheesy CrockPot funeral potatoes. Easy slow cooker hashbrown casserole, a family favorite side dish, breakfast, or brunch recipe.
Remember that wonderful hash brown casserole with Corn Flakes we made in the oven a little while ago? It was such a big hit with y’all, that I decided to adapt it and make it into a CrockPot hash brown casserole.
Only this time, I added one secret ingredient that really gives it a kick. What a difference one powerful, little ingredient can make.
CrockPot cheesy hashbrowns are the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter; they also make the perfect breakfast or brunch idea, especially if you add a little bit of protein like ham, bacon, or sausage. Yum!
One of the many things I love about slow cooker hash brown casserole is that it’s very easy to mix up. It’s as easy as dumping, mixing, and spreading in your slow cooker.
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the casserole recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
WHY ARE THEY CALLED FUNERAL POTATOES?
Well, Southern Living states that although they are consumed all across the country, funeral potatoes are really more of a southern tradition, and the reasoning is in the name. To put it simply, cheesy hash brown casserole is an easy make-ahead recipe that can feed a crowd, and that’s perfect for a funeral.
To be honest, here in the South and even living in the Midwest, I can’t remember ever attending a funeral or potluck at which funeral potatoes weren’t served!
Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours.
In a small bowl, mix together the slightly crushed Corn Flakes and the melted butter.
Sprinkle the Corn Flakes over the hash brown mixture in the slow cooker; then cover and cook an additional 30 minutes.
And that’s it! When it’s done, it’s ready to serve while warm. You can sprinkle it with chopped green onions, if preferred.
CAN I PUT FROZEN POTATOES IN THE SLOW COOKER, OR DO I HAVE TO COOK THEM FIRST?
Yes, the potatoes can be put straight into the slow cooker, but it’s important to ensure that they are thawed beforehand. Just follow the instructions on the package, and be sure to allow ample time for thawing.
HANDY TIP: HOW TO CRUSH CORN FLAKES
The quickest and least messy way that I have found to crush Corn Flakes is to place them in a quart sized plastic bag and seal the bag. Be sure that all of the air inside the bag escapes.
Using either your hands or a rolling pin, you can now crush the Corn Flakes. For this recipe, they only need to be slightly crushed, so don’t spend too much time on it.
WHAT CAN I SUBSTITUTE FOR SOUR CREAM?
The best 1:1 substitute for sour cream that I have found is plain Greek yogurt. For every cup of sour cream, it is also possible to substitute 1 cup of milk or cream mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
If a vegan substitute is desired, you can simply use a vegan sour cream or Greek yogurt, both of which can be found in most grocery stores and health food stores.
That being said, I highly recommend that you keep the sour cream in these CrockPot funeral potatoes, as nothing else really comes close to the flavor and richness sour cream provides.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH CROCKPOT HASH BROWN CASSEROLE:
Crockpot hash brown casserole pairs wonderfully with the following dishes:
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT CROCKPOT CHEESY HASHBROWNS
Thankfully, this recipe is a great make-ahead side dish. It can be made the night before, the day before, etc. This casserole will store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Although it is certainly possible to cook it beforehand, for the best results I recommend mixing it up to store in the fridge, waiting to cook until you’re ready to eat.
For longer storage time, cook your funeral potatoes in the slow cooker beforehand, and place them in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply let your potatoes thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and bake them at 350° F for 30 minutes to an hour.
IS CROCKPOT HASHBROWN CASSEROLE GLUTEN-FREE?
Unfortunately, CrockPot hashbrown casserole is not typically gluten-free, reason being that cream of chicken soup and hash browns are rarely gluten-free. Corn Flakes aren’t either.
That being said, there are options for both gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free frozen hashbrowns in most grocery stores and health food stores. I’ve found that Ore-Ida makes delicious gluten-free frozen hash browns.
As for the Corn Flakes, I haven’t found a gluten-free option yet; but you could always substitute slightly crushed potato chips or maybe a gluten-free Corn Chex cereal.
Always be sure to check all of your ingredient labels to ensure that they’re truly gluten-free.
If you love this slow cooker hash brown casserole as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!
How to make cheesy CrockPot funeral potatoes. Easy slow cooker hashbrown casserole, a family favorite side dish, breakfast, or brunch recipe.
Vegetable Chopper
Large Mixing Bowl
7-Quart Slow Cooker
30 ounces frozen hash browns (thawed)
1/2 cup salted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup yellow onion (minced)
10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
16 ounces sour cream
2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Topping:
2 cups Corn Flakes (slightly crushed)
1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
4 green onions (chopped (optional))
Spray the inside of the CrockPot or slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking or scorching.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the hashbrowns, melted butter, salt, pepper, minced garlic, minced onion, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
Stir in the cheddar cheese.
Spread the mixture into the greased slow cooker.
Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours.
Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the slightly crushed Corn Flakes and melted butter.
Sprinkle the Corn Flakes over the hash brown mixture in the slow cooker; then cover and cook an additional 30 minutes.
Sprinkle with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve while warm.
CAN I PUT FROZEN POTATOES IN THE SLOW COOKER, OR DO I HAVE TO COOK THEM FIRST?
Yes, the potatoes can be put straight into the slow cooker, but it’s important to ensure that they are thawed beforehand. Just follow the instructions on the package, and be sure to allow ample time for thawing.
HANDY TIP: HOW TO CRUSH CORN FLAKES
The quickest and least messy way that I have found to crush Corn Flakes is to place them in a quart sized plastic bag and seal the bag. Be sure that all of the air inside the bag escapes. Using either your hands or a rolling pin, you can now crush the Corn Flakes. For this recipe, they only need to be slightly crushed, so don’t spend too much time on it.
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT CROCKPOT CHEESY HASHBROWNS
Thankfully, this recipe is a great make-ahead meal. It can be made the night before, the day before, etc. This casserole will store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Although it is certainly possible to cook it beforehand, for the best results I recommend mixing it up to store in the fridge, waiting to cook until you’re ready to eat.
For longer storage time, cook your funeral potatoes in the slow cooker beforehand, and place them in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply let your potatoes thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and bake them at 350° F for 30 minutes to an hour.
Side Dish
American
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How to make the best southern sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and pecans. Classic Thanksgiving side dish you can easily make ahead.
Thanksgiving will soon be upon us, and nothing says Thanksgiving dinner quite like a delicious sweet potato casserole covered in a gooey marshmallow pecan topping.
I have never been a huge fan of sweet potatoes by themselves. But throw together a good, old-fashioned, southern sweet potato casserole, and I can eat it by the spoonful; it’s so good!
My grandma made sweet potato and marshmallow casserole every single Thanksgiving. I still remember waiting on the marshmallows to get just brown enough that dinner was finally ready to eat.
This side dish is really easy to make and doesn’t take a lot of time to bake, maybe 25 to 30 minutes in all. You can make it the day of, or you can make it ahead of time.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or on the dessert table, your crowd is definitely going to love this sweet potato casserole recipe. Speaking of dessert, sweet potato pie is another crowd-pleasing favorite.
HOW TO MAKE SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE WITH MARSHMALLOWS
Making sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a two-part process, involving both prepping the sweet potatoes and then layering the casserole.
HOW TO PREPARE THE SWEET POTATOES
Peel and cut the washed sweet potatoes into cubes.
Add the cubed sweet potatoes to a large stock pot, and cover them with water. Bring to a boil on the stove over medium heat, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until tender when poked with a fork.
When the potatoes are fully cooked, drain the water, and add the potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer, so they’re ready to go into the casserole.
If you don’t want to go through the process of boiling your sweet potatoes, you can go the easier route and just make pressure cooker sweet potatoes in your Instant Pot. Then peel them and mash them right in the pot with an immersion blender or hand mixer.
HOW TO MAKE SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE FROM SCRATCH
At this point, you can pre-heat your oven to 375°F, and lightly spray the sides and bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
Add the softened butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the sweet potatoes in the mixing bowl, and whisk until everything is well combined.
Stir the chopped pecans into the sweet potato mixture.
Evenly spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the top with marshmallows and the remaining pecans.
At this point, it’s ready to bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown. Serve it immediately while warm, and store any leftovers in the fridge.
CAN I MAKE IT IN ADVANCE?
Yes, sweet potato casserole is a great make-ahead recipe.
It’s best to mix everything together, leaving the topping off until it is time to bake. You can then place the raw filling in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
When you’re ready to bake the casserole, place the pre-made filling in your baking dish and top with mini marshmallows and pecans. Bake it as normal, at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
HOW TO STORE SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
A baked sweet potato casserole is best stored in the refrigerator. It will typically keep for up to 4-5 days.
To reheat, cover your casserole with aluminum foil, and bake at 375°F for 5-10 minutes. It is now ready to serve!
CAN I FREEZE THIS CASSEROLE?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole, although it’s best to freeze it before baking.
Simply spread both the filling and the topping in your pan, and cover it with a double layer of aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer, and it will keep for around 3 months.
You can also freeze just the filling in an airtight container, waiting until it’s time to bake to spread it in your pan with the topping.
Be sure to let it warm up at room temperature for around 30 minutes before baking. Bake as the recipe directs, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
WHAT GOES WELL WITH SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE?
Sweet potato casserole pairs well with just about anything, but here are some of my favorite recipes.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A YAM AND A SWEET POTATO?
This is a good question. Bon Appétit states, “At most grocery stores, absolutely nothing.”
Most yams that you see in the grocery store are, in fact, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. However, back in the 1930’s, Louisiana market growers decided to name their orange-fleshed sweet potatoes “yams,” and the name has stuck even to this day.
Real yams are a different root vegetable altogether, more comparable to a white russet potato than a sweet potato. Real yams are not typically easy to find in the U.S.
CAN YOU USE CANNED YAMS FOR THIS RECIPE?
Real yams will definitely not work. They are far different from a sweet potato.
That being said, most canned yams that are available in American grocery stores are really orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. Usually it will state on the can whether or not it is actually a sweet potato product.
If your canned yams are just sweet potatoes, they will make a fine 1:1 substitute for this recipe.
VARIOUS WAYS TO MAKE SOUTHERN SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
When it comes to making sweet potato casserole, the sky is the limit. Toppings are a great place to start.
Instead of topping with marshmallows, try making a brown sugar and pecan streusel topping. This makes for a delicious casserole.
Try using a different nut. Pecans are not the only option; almonds and walnuts come to mind.
You can also change up the seasonings; sometimes a hint of pumpkin pie spice or just cinnamon goes a long way. Be creative!
HOW TO MAKE THIS CASSEROLE A LITTLE BIT HEALTHIER
Here are some ideas to make southern sweet potato casserole a little bit healthier.
If you are looking for a gluten-free casserole, this recipe pretty much fits the bill. Just be sure to check all of your ingredients to ensure that they really are gluten-free.
To make this recipe lactose-free, you can substitute just about any dairy-free milk, like almond milk or cashew milk, and you can use ghee in place of butter. These products can be found in most grocery stores and health food stores.
You can eliminate the marshmallow topping and simply use a pecan streusel topping.
How to make the best southern sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and pecans. Classic Thanksgiving side dish you can easily make ahead.
Vegetable Peeler
Large Stockpot
Large Mixing Bowl
Hand Mixer
9×13 Baking Dish
Casserole:
4 pounds sweet potatoes
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped pecans
Topping:
2 cups mini marshmallows
1/4 cup chopped pecans
Peel and cut the washed sweet potatoes into cubes.
Add the cubed sweet potatoes to a large stockpot, and cover them with water. Bring to a boil on the stove over medium heat, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until tender when poked with a fork.
When the potatoes are fully cooked, drain the water and add the potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer, so they're ready to go into the casserole.
Pre-heat your oven to 375° F, and lightly spray the sides and bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
Add the softened butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the sweet potatoes in the mixing bowl, and whisk until everything is well combined.
Stir the chopped pecans into the sweet potato mixture.
Evenly spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the top with marshmallows and the remaining pecans.
Bake at 375° F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Serve it immediately while warm, and store any leftovers in the fridge.
*If you don’t want to go through the process of boiling your sweet potatoes, you can go the easier route and just make Instant Pot sweet potatoes. Then peel them and mash them right in the pot with an immersion blender or hand mixer.
CAN I MAKE IT IN ADVANCE?
Yes, sweet potato casserole is a great make-ahead recipe.
It’s best to mix everything together, leaving the topping off until it is time to bake. You can then place the raw filling in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
When you’re ready to bake the casserole, place the pre-made filling in your baking dish and top with mini marshmallows and pecans. Bake it as normal, at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
HOW TO STORE SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
A baked sweet potato casserole is best stored in the refrigerator. It will typically keep for up to 4-5 days. You can either keep it in your baking dish, covering the top with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or you can alternatively dish it out into an airtight container. Both ways work equally as well!
To reheat, cover your casserole with aluminum foil, and bake at 375°F for 5-10 minutes. It is now ready to serve!
CAN I FREEZE THIS CASSEROLE?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole, although it’s best to freeze it before baking. Simply spread both the filling and the topping in your pan, and cover it with a double layer of aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer, and it will keep for around 3 months.
You can also freeze just the filling in an airtight container, waiting until it’s time to bake to spread it in your pan with the topping.
Be sure to let it warm up at room temperature for around 30 minutes before baking. Bake as the recipe directs, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
CAN YOU USE CANNED YAMS FOR THIS RECIPE?
Real yams will definitely not work. They are far different from a sweet potato.
That being said, most canned yams that are available in American grocery stores are really orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. Usually it will state on the can whether or not it is actually a sweet potato product.
If your canned yams are just sweet potatoes, they will make a fine 1:1 substitute for this recipe.
Side Dish
American
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How to make festive and easy Fruity Pebble Christmas trees, a colorful holiday Krispie treat recipe for kids. Make it in 10 minutes in the microwave!
Take a dessert like easy Fruity Pebbles treats or classic Rice Krispie treats, switch out the cereal, cut them out with a Christmas tree cookie cutter, and you’ve got a colorful treat all the kids will love this holiday season.
Heck even I love these festive and colorful Fruity Pebbles Christmas trees. They’re ooey, gooey, chewy, and downright delicious.
Fruity Pebbles has always been one of my favorite cereals. It’d stand to reason that my kids love it too, which is one reason I also like to make Fruity Pebbles ice cream. Yum!
Fruity Pebble crispy treats are super easy to make and only take about 10 minutes from start to finish, using the microwave. Cutting them out may take a bit more time if you really sit down and just enjoy the process with your kids.
You mix them up; your kids do the cutting out and decorating.
To decorate I like to just add a mini marshmallow for the star at the top of each tree, because the cereal is colorful and festive enough all by itself. Fruity Pebbles treats are just so cute!
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
You’ll need just a few ingredients to make this Fruity Pebbles Christmas treats recipe…
This marshmallow cereal treat only requires a few steps to mix…
Add the mini marshmallows, salted butter, and vanilla extract to a large microwave-safe bowl, and heat on high for 2 minutes, mostly melting everything.
Remove the bowl from the microwave, and stir the mixture ’til smooth; the mixture will finish melting with stirring.
Quickly stir in the cereal.
Gently spread and pat the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, and allow it to cool. (Tip: To prevent your hands from sticking to the cereal mixture, dip your hands in water beforehand, and rub them together; or you can spray them with a light coating of cooking spray.)
Top each Christmas tree with a mini marshmallow star. It’ll stick to the treat with no help needed besides a gentle press of your finger.
ARE THEY GLUTEN-FREE?
Yes, they are typically gluten-free. Fruity Pebbles are gluten-free, but some marshmallow brands can contain gluten, so just ensure that your marshmallows are gluten-free.
As with any other recipe, always check your ingredients over to ensure that they are, in fact, gluten-free. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
WHAT KIND OF MARSHMALLOWS SHOULD I USE FOR FRUITY PEBBLE CRISPY TREATS?
While you can use big marshmallows, jumbo marshmallows, or mini marshmallows, it really is best to use mini marshmallows. These melt far more efficiently and quicker than larger marshmallows.
You can also use marshmallow fluff. Just use 1 jar of marshmallow cream for every 4 cups of mini marshmallows.
CAN I USE MARGARINE INSTEAD OF BUTTER?
I highly recommend that you use a good salted butter over margarine. Salted butter will give these treats a much richer flavor and texture.
WHY ARE MY TREATS HARD?
Sometimes it can be hard to tell what causes Fruity Pebble treats to be hard, but here are a few pointers to avoid that scenario.
It’s best to use fresh marshmallows. Often a pack of marshmallows will have an expiration date 4 or 5 months out from the time that it is purchased, and the closer you get to this date, the harder your marshmallows can become; once this date has passed, you may want to buy new marshmallows.
It’s easy to get impatient and melt the marshmallows at too high of a temperature, and if they cook too quickly, the resulting mixture will harden. Remember, be patient; slow and steady wins the race!
Don’t use too much cereal. You don’t want too dry of a mixture, as this will certainly become tough and chewy!
VARIATIONS ON FRUITY PEBBLE MARSHMALLOW TREATS
Here are some ideas to add a little more variety to these treats!
Add freeze-dried fruit. Strawberries come to mind!
If you need a dairy-free option, try using the same amount of coconut oil in place of the butter.
Try different marshmallow flavors. You can often buy a wide variety of different marshmallow flavors at just about any local grocery store.
Use a different cereal. I reckon that cocoa pebbles would be amazing for this recipe!
Fruity pebble treats are best freshly made, but they will store in an airtight container for a few days. Alternatively, you can store them in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 6 weeks.
If you love this marshmallow cereal treat recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!
How to make festive and easy Fruity Pebble Christmas trees, a colorful holiday Krispie treat recipe for kids. Make it in 10 minutes in the microwave!
Large Microwave-Safe Bowl
Christmas Tree Cookie Cutter
9×13 Baking Pan
6 cups mini marshmallows
5 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal
Grease a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
Add the mini marshmallows, salted butter, and vanilla extract to a large microwave-safe bowl, and heat on high for 2 minutes, mostly melting everything.
Remove the bowl from the microwave, and stir the mixture ’til smooth; the mixture will finish melting with stirring.
Quickly stir in the cereal.
Gently spread and pat the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking pan, and allow it to cool. Tip: To prevent your hands from sticking to the cereal mixture, dip your hands in water beforehand, and rub them together; or you can spray them with a light coating of cooking spray.
Use a Christmas tree cookie cutter to cut the treats into trees.
Top each Christmas tree with a mini marshmallow star. It’ll stick to the treat with no help needed besides a gentle press of your finger.
Then place the trees on a platter and serve!
WHAT KIND OF MARSHMALLOWS SHOULD I USE FOR FRUITY PEBBLE CRISPY TREATS?
While you can use big marshmallows, jumbo marshmallows, or mini marshmallows, it really is best to use mini marshmallows. These melt far more efficiently and quicker than larger marshmallows.
You can also use marshmallow fluff. Use 1 jar of marshmallow cream for every 4 cups of mini marshmallows.
CAN I USE MARGARINE INSTEAD OF BUTTER?
I highly recommend that you use a good salted butter over margarine. Salted butter will give these treats a much richer flavor and texture.
WHY ARE MY TREATS HARD?
Sometimes it can be hard to tell what causes fruity pebble treats to be hard, but here are a few pointers to avoid that scenario.
It’s best to use fresh marshmallows. Often a pack of marshmallows will have an expiration date 4 or 5 months out from the time that it is purchased, and the closer you get to this date, the harder your marshmallows will become; once this date has passed, you might as well buy new marshmallows.
It’s easy to get impatient and melt the marshmallows at too high of a temperature, and if they cook too quickly, the resulting mixture will harden. Remember, be patient; slow and steady wins the race!
Don’t use too much cereal. You don’t want too dry of a mixture, as this will certainly become tough and chewy!
HOW TO STORE FRUITY PEBBLES TREATS
Fruity pebble treats are best freshly made, but they will store in an airtight container for a few days. Alternatively, you can store them in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 6 weeks.
How to make rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate with chocolate chips. Best with marshmallows or whipped cream; easy 3-ingredient recipe for Christmas!
When it comes to hot chocolate, there is nothing quite as dreamy and creamy as a nice warm cup of homemade hot chocolate with chocolate chips paired with my favorite hot chocolate cookies. I’m telling you, it is the absolute BEST!
I’ve always enjoyed Swiss Miss and homemade hot chocolate mix; but I’ll tell you what, after making this hot chocolate recipe with chocolate chips, I’m sold on this way of making my favorite wintertime treat.
Hot cocoa with chocolate chips is very creamy and slightly thicker than regular cocoa. It’s got a richness to it that just can’t be beat.
There’s something pretty special about replacing cocoa powder with chocolate chips. It creates a silky smooth drink that slides right down your throat and gives you a craving for more, especially if you’re a chocolate fanatic like me.
Keep reading because I’ll share tips for making your favorite chocolate drink even tastier, with ideas for extra flavors and ingredients you can add.
WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my hot chocolate making tips, important info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the hot chocolate recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
Whole milk
Semi-sweet chocolate chips – I recommend Ghirardelli. You want a good brand of chocolate. I also prefer semi-sweet; but you can use milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips if you prefer.
Making hot chocolate with chocolate chips is really simple and easy to do. Yet another reason why I love making this creamy hot chocolate recipe.
Add the milk to a small saucepan over low to medium heat.
When the milk has slightly warmed for about 2 to 3 minutes, add in the chocolate chips, whisking until melted.
Add a pinch of salt, and stir that into the mixture.
Warm the mixture, stirring constantly, until small bubbles start to form around the edge of the liquid on the sides of the pan; but don’t let it boil, or it will very likely curdle.
You can use chocolate milk if you want, but it’s going to add an intense amount of chocolate flavor.
Instead I prefer to let the chocolate chips do the work of flavoring, and that’s why I say to use a good brand of chocolate chips for making homemade hot chocolate from scratch.
When you use a good chocolate, it’ll add a thickness, richness, and all the chocolate flavor you will ever need.
IS IT BETTER TO MAKE HOT CHOCOLATE WITH MILK OR WATER?
You can use water, which will actually allow the chocolate chips to stand out with flavor.
But without the milk, you lose both the creaminess and richness of your hot chocolate. To me, milk is a no brainer.
If by chance you follow a dairy-free diet, you can use a different type of milk like almond milk. And of course, you’d want to use dairy-free chocolate chips, as well.
CAN I REPLACE CHOCOLATE CHIPS WITH CHOCOLATE BAR?
Yes, you can use your favorite chocolate bar instead of chocolate chips. Just be sure to use the same amount of chocolate.
WHAT CAN I ADD TO THIS HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS?
Oh boy, the things you can add to make this recipe even more decadent and rich. Here are a few ideas…
I love adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract; I’m talking maybe 1/4 teaspoon of each. Both really enhance the flavors of the chocolate chips.
Instead of chocolate chips, you can use white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips (or half peanut butter, half chocolate), mint chocolate chips, etc. Oh the possibilities here!
If you like to top off your hot cocoa with marshmallows or whipped cream, give it a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Sprinkle a few pieces of peppermint candy, or drop in a candy cane. I sometimes like to take peppermint candies and crush them up, then sprinkle them over the marshmallows.
How to make rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate with chocolate chips. Best with marshmallows or whipped cream; easy 3-ingredient recipe for Christmas!
3-Quart Saucepan
4 cups whole milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
Add the milk to a small saucepan over low to medium heat on the stove.
When the milk has slightly warmed for about 2 to 3 minutes, add in the chocolate chips, whisking until melted.
Add a pinch of salt, and stir that into the mixture.
Warm the mixture, stirring constantly, until small bubbles start to form around the edge of the liquid on the sides of the pan; don't let it boil, or it will very likely curdle.
Pour it into your favorite mug, and top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream.
*I recommend Ghirardelli chocolate chips. You want a good brand of chocolate. I also prefer semi-sweet; but you can use milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips if you prefer.
*You can use regular table salt too.
CAN I REPLACE CHOCOLATE CHIPS WITH CHOCOLATE BAR?
Yes, you can use your favorite chocolate bar instead of chocolate chips. Just be sure to use the same amount of chocolate.
WHAT CAN I ADD TO THIS HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS?
Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract; I’m talking maybe 1/4 teaspoon of each. Both really enhance the flavors of the chocolate chips.
Instead of chocolate chips, use white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips (or half peanut butter, half chocolate), mint chocolate chips, etc.
If you like to top off your hot cocoa with marshmallows or whipped cream, give it a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Sprinkle a few pieces of peppermint candy, or drop in a candy cane. I like to take peppermint candies and crush them up, then sprinkle them over the marshmallows.
Yes, you can reheat hot chocolate. Just be sure to heat it back up on the stove, and again, don’t let it boil.
Beverage, Drinks
American
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How to make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice for all your favorite recipes and desserts, including cookies, cakes, breads, pies, and more. Easy DIY mix!
You’re right in the middle of making Grandma’s pumpkin pie recipe, and you realize you’re completely out of pumpkin pie spice. Believe me when I say, been there done that.
But I have a really quick and easy solution for you. Provided you already have just a handful of spices in your pantry, you can make your own pumpkin pie spice in a cinch.
If you’ve ever smelled the scent of pumpkin pie seasoning, you can tell it contains something more than just cinnamon and allspice. In fact, if you read the label on a jar of pumpkin spice seasoning, you’ll see it contains a few very simple fall spices, including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
5 ingredients and 5 minutes are all it takes to make pumpkin spice mix you can use in all your favorite fall and Thanksgiving recipes.
As long as you store your homemade pumpkin spice blend in an airtight container or spice jar that closes tight, it can last you 2 to 3 years.
WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my spice mixing tips, important info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the DIY pumpkin pie spice recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
Homemade pumpkin spice mix is only gluten-free if you use gluten-free spices and seasonings. There can be cross-contamination, so always make sure your ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
WHAT FLAVORS GO WELL WITH PUMPKIN SPICE?
A lot of ingredients pair well with this pumpkin pie spice blend.
Think fall flavors like pumpkin (of course), apple pie spice, vanilla, cream cheese, almonds, pecans, walnuts, oats, and more.
You might even spice things up with a little bit of Cajun spice or hot pepper blend.
WHERE CAN I FIND THE BEST SPICES?
You can find good spices at just about any grocery store, including Walmart.
Personally, I love using Badia spices and seasonings, which I order on Amazon, because all of their single spices are gluten-free (always check labels to be sure). Their spices and seasonings are excellent quality too.
If you want to save money overall, buying in bulk is probably the option for you. Check local health food stores, Whole Foods, etc., because a lot of them will offer bulk spices you can go in and bag yourself. You might also check a bulk food store like Costco or Sam’s Club.
And if you want to order bulk elsewhere online, there are many sites that carry spices, like Watkins, Frontier Co-op, and Bulk Apothecary.
Pumpkin Spice Recipes and Desserts
Ways to use pumpkin pie spice in your kitchen this fall, Thanksgiving, and holiday season!
If you love this homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!
How to make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice for all your favorite recipes and desserts, including cookies, cakes, breads, pies, and more. Easy recipe you can make in 5 minutes with 5 simple ingredients!
Mixing Bowl
Spice Jars with Labels
3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
1 1/2 teaspoons ground allspice
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves, 'til well blended.
Store your homemade pumpkin spice in an airtight container or spice jar that seals well.
Then use as needed.
Is this gluten-free?
Homemade pumpkin spice mix is only gluten-free if you use gluten-free spices and seasonings. There can be cross-contamination, so always make sure your ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Pantry Staples, Spices and Seasonings
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One of my favorite things to make every fall is this easy apple crumble without oats, straight from my grandma’s recipe box. It’s amazing how good sliced apples with a cinnamon brown sugar topping can taste.
It seems Grandma collected recipes everywhere she went; and this apple crisp without oats was no exception.
As with all my favorite apple recipes, I use my favorite apple peeler tool to help me make quick work of this beloved old-fashioned apple crumble. It cores, peels, and slices the apples all in one shot.
The streusel topping comes together in about 5-10 minutes. Made with flour, sugar, and cinnamon, you can crumble it right on top of the apples and then bake. It’s so easy! Sometimes I even mix in a pinch of homemade apple pie spice.
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You don’t even need a crust for this apple crumble recipe, because you’ll crumble the crust right on top.
Then the butter allows that crust to melt down into the apples, giving a crispy flavorful kick to every single bite of this delicious dessert.
Ingredient Notes
Apples – For any kind of apple crisp, cobbler, crumble, or pie, I love using seconds; seconds are imperfect apples you can often buy cheaper and in bulk at an orchard or farmer’s market. I prefer to use Jonathan apples or Jonagold apples. Jonagolds are a cross between Jonathans and Golden Delicious, and they are so sweet, tart, and crisp. Some more of the best apples to use include Granny Smith apples, Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Northern Spy. According to Bob’s Red Mill, Northern Spy is a rare apple and hard to find; but if you love apple pie, it’s definitely one you may want to hunt down.
Light brown sugar – I prefer to use light over dark because of the texture and slight fluffiness it gives to the topping.
Salted butter – You can also use unsalted butter, if preferred; but you may want to add a bit more salt to the topping if you do.
How to Make Apple Crumble without Oats
This apple crisp recipe without oats is so easy to make; it involves just a few steps…
Core, peel, and slice the washed apples, and add them to a greased 9×13 casserole dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and brown sugar.
Using a pastry blender, mix the dry ingredients with the unbeaten eggs and melted butter, forming a kind of crumble topping.
Crumble the topping right over the apples.
And that’s it. Just bake it uncovered for the first 20 minutes (at 425° F); it should be a nice golden brown. Then cover it with foil, and bake another 10 to 15 minutes, ’til the apples are tender.
Once you’ve removed it from the oven, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Apple Crisp
Serving apple crumble with vanilla ice cream is the absolute best! You can serve it with whipped cream too, but personally, I go for the ice cream every time.
While it’s delicious when served warm from the oven, especially with a nice warm mug of coffee, it’s equally as delicious when it’s cold. So no worries if you’re making this dessert in advance.
Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s
Is there a difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
Here in the States, the terms can be used interchangeably. However, most of the time a crisp involves oats; not always, but most of the time. Grandma called this an apple crisp. I’m mostly calling it an apple crumble because of the brown sugar cookie-like crisp topping and no oats. Crumble is what comes to my mind when I think about this dessert.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, you most definitely can; in fact, I use my favorite gluten-free flour to make this recipe. Just make sure all of your other ingredients are gluten-free too.
How should I store it?
We usually let apple crumble sit out on the counter for 2-3 days just fine. Any longer, and you may want to throw it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze this dessert, baked or unbaked. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container or baking dish, so it doesn’t get freezer burn.
Why is my apple crumble dry?
This particular crumble is so moist and delicious. However, I suppose it could depend on the apples you use and the cook time. It could also depend on the amount of butter you use in the recipe. 8 tablespoons seems to be the right amount of butter to give this topping the right amount of crispness and moisture that blends right in with the apples.
Why is my crumble topping not crispy?
This has to do with ingredient quantities. You may not have just the right ratio of flour, butter, or sugar. The light brown sugar also plays a role in giving it a crunchier texture.
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!
Apple Crumble without Oats
How to make an easy homemade apple crumble without oats, from Grandma's recipe box. Sliced apples with the best cinnamon brown sugar topping.
Johnny apple peeler
9×13 Baking Dish
Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Pastry Blender
12 to 15 apples (cored, peeled, and sliced)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup cane sugar
1 cup light brown sugar
2 large eggs
8 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
Pre-heat the oven to 425° F.
Core, peel, and slice the washed apples, and add them to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and brown sugar.
Using a pastry blender, mix the dry ingredients with the unbeaten eggs and melted butter, forming a kind of crumble topping.
Crumble the topping right over the apples.
Bake, uncovered, at 425° F for about 20 minutes; the crust should be a nice golden brown. Then cover with aluminum foil, and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, 'til the apples are tender.
Once you’ve removed it from the oven, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream.
We usually let apple crumble sit out on the counter for 2-3 days just fine. Any longer, and you may want to throw it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze this dessert, baked or unbaked. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container or baking dish, so it doesn’t get freezer burn.
Desserts, Pies & Pastries
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Make a red white and blue poke cake for the 4th of July and other patriotic celebrations. This is an easy 4th of July poke cake topped with whipped cream and red white and blue sprinkles.
I’ve loved Jello cake ever since I was a little girl. It was Mom’s go to dessert back in the day, and I remember the excitement I felt as I watched her cover it and place it in the fridge to chill for dessert.
Like 4th of July cupcakes, this 4th of July poke cake is made with a white cake mix. Once it’s baked, you poke a few holes and turn it into a red white and blue Jello cake by alternately pouring blue and red Jello over the tiny holes, so it soaks down into the cake.
I like to spread whipped topping all over the top of the cake and then chill it overnight so everything really melds together to create a cold, refreshing, flavorful dessert.
Then when it comes out of the fridge, sprinkle a few patriotic sprinkles on top, and you’ve got a beautiful 4th of July dessert.
Another one of my favorite red, white, and blue desserts is strawberry Jello flag cake covered in whipped cream, strawberries, and blueberries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this red blue and white cake…
A patriotic poke cake is the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day with friends and family. It also works wonderfully for Memorial Day, Veterans Day, or any other type of patriotic remembrance or celebration.
Red white and blue Jello cake is such a refreshing dessert; there’s really no other way to describe it. And this 4th of July Jello cake is the perfect summer dessert.
It’s so easy to make, especially with a cake mix. Even creating the red white and blue parts of the cake is as simple as pouring liquid Jello over the cake.
Ingredient Notes:
White cake mix – I also love using a French vanilla cake mix. You can also make this gluten-free with a gluten-free cake mix. Just be sure to check all your other ingredients to make sure they’re truly gluten-free.
Oil – I just use canola oil.
Blue Jello – I use Berry Blue.
Red Jello – I use strawberry, but you can use cherry or raspberry too.
Remember, all of the ingredient amounts you’ll need are in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Red White and Blue Poke Cake
Before you get started, go ahead and pre-heat your oven to 350° F, or whatever temperature it says on your cake mix box.
Then just follow these steps…
Mix together the cake mix, water, eggs, and canola oil.
Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13 baking dish or cake pan, and bake according to the package directions on your cake mix.
When the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven, and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes.
Meanwhile, mix half of the blue Jello mix (1.5 ounces) with 1/2 cup boiling water ’til the Jello mix dissolves. Then add 1/4 cup cold water, and mix well.
Then mix half of the red Jello mix (1.5 ounces) with 1/2 cup boiling water ’til the Jello mix dissolves. Add 1/4 cup cold water, and mix well.
Poke holes all over the top of the slightly cooled but still warm cake with a fork. I find that a fork works really well, but you can also use the handle of a wooden spoon or a wooden skewer if you want bigger holes.
Carefully and slowly pour the blue and red Jello mixture alternately over the entire cake. To keep the colors separate, I skip around with the red Jello, and then I fill in the rest of the cake with the blue. A funnel pitcher works great for this. Because of the random poke holes, there will always be parts of the cake that are left without color, so you’ll end up with red white and blue.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Then spread Cool Whip or whipped topping over the top of the entire cake.
Chill the cake for at least 4 hours, or better yet overnight, before serving.
Before serving, sprinkle red white and blue sprinkles all over the top of the cake, as many or as few as you want. Then slice and serve the cake. Just a note: I like to wait until after chilling to add the sprinkles, so they don’t bleed into the whipped cream and ruin the look of the cake.
FAQ’s and Expert Tips
What do you use to poke holes in a cake?
If pouring Jello or a thinner liquid over the cake, you can just use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. However, if pouring a thicker liquid like pudding over it, you might want to use something bigger, like the end of a wooden spoon handle.
You can definitely make Jello cake ahead of time, and the whipped cream, as well. Of course, be sure to store it all in the fridge ’til you’re ready to serve it. And don’t forget to add the sprinkles when it’s ready to serve.
How should you store Jello cake?
Definitely keep it in and airtight container in the fridge. This will keep the cake fresh for at least 3-4 days.
Can you freeze poke cake?
Yes, you can. However, I would freeze the cake without the topping and sprinkles, and just add those on when it’s thawed and you’re ready to serve it.
What to Do with Leftover Jello Mix
I just take my leftover Jello mixes, put them together in a bowl, and make Jello according to package directions. It makes a mixed berry Jello that almost tastes like grape, and my boys love it.
You can also use it to make a batch of Jello Jigglers, or make festive layered Jello cups.
How to Change Jello Cake to Fit Other Holidays
Poke cake opens up a whole new world of possibilities for other holidays too. It’s a way to add some festive fun to your holiday dessert table, no matter what you’re celebrating.
Here are a few ideas that will hopefully spark your imagination…
Valentine’s Day – Make it with red Jello and cover with pink whipped cream and Valentine sprinkles.
Easter – Think pastels… Lemon, Berry Blue, Strawberry, Lime, and Grape Jello, along with Easter sprinkles, will make a beautiful Easter poke cake.
Halloween – Use orange and purple Jello, or use green and purple Jello, combining forces to make it fit whatever theme you’re going for. You can add Halloween sprinkles and candy corn too, and you can even color the Cool Whip to make it purple, green, or orange.
Christmas – Go with red and green Jello, and top it off with Christmas sprinkles galore.
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 Poke Cake
How to make a red white and blue poke cake for patriotic celebrations. Easy 4th of July poke cake topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.
Mixer
9×13 Cake Pan
Pyrex Measuring Cups
Funnel pitcher
1 box white cake mix* (16.25 ounce)
1 cup water
3 large eggs
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 box blue Jello (1.5 ounces)
1/2 box red Jello (1.5 ounces)
1 cup boiling water (divided)
1/2 cup cold water (divided)
8 ounces Cool Whip
1/3 cup red white and blue sprinkles
Pre-heat your oven to 350° F, or whatever temperature it says on your specific cake mix box.
Mix together the cake mix, water, eggs, and canola oil.
Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13 cake pan, and bake according to the package directions on your cake mix.
When the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven, and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes.
Meanwhile, mix half of the blue Jello mix (1.5 ounce) with 1/2 cup boiling water ’til the Jello mix dissolves. Then add 1/4 cup cold water, and mix well.
Then mix half of the red Jello mix (1.5 ounce) with 1/2 cup boiling water ’til the Jello mix dissolves. Add 1/4 cup cold water, and mix well.
Poke holes all over the top of the slightly cooled but still warm cake with a fork. I find that a fork works really well, but you can also use the handle of a wooden spoon or a wooden skewer if you want bigger holes.
Carefully and slowly pour the blue and red Jello mixture alternately over the entire cake. I skip around with the red Jello, and then I fill in the rest of the cake with the blue. A funnel pitcher works great for this.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Then spread Cool Whip or whipped topping over the top of the entire cake.
Chill the cake for at least 4 hours, or better yet overnight, before serving.
Before serving, sprinkle 4th of July sprinkles all over the top of the cake, as many or as few as you want.* Then slice and serve the cake.
*I also love to use French Vanilla cake mix; you can also use a gluten-free cake mix. Keep in mind, ingredient amounts may differ on the water, eggs, and canola oil, depending on the brand/type of cake mix you use. Follow package instructions for your specific cake mix.
*Just a note about the sprinkles: I like to wait until after chilling to add the sprinkles, so they don’t bleed into the whipped cream and ruin the look of the cake.
Can you make this ahead of time? You can definitely make Jello cake ahead of time, and the whipped cream, as well. Of course, be sure to store it all in the fridge ’til you’re ready to serve it. And don’t forget to add the sprinkles when it’s ready to serve.
How should you store Jello cake? Definitely keep it in and airtight container in the fridge. This will keep the cake fresh for at least 3-4 days.
Can you freeze poke cake? Yes, you can. However, I would freeze the cake without the topping and sprinkles, and just add those on when it’s thawed and you’re ready to serve it.
Cakes & Cupcakes
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Bake a blueberry French toast casserole with cream cheese and a cinnamon streusel topping. Quick and easy overnight breakfast recipe that tastes so amazing!
If you love blueberries and cream cheese, you are in for a treat with this blueberry cream cheese French toast casserole. Let me tell you, I think this is my favorite one yet.
Layered with sourdough bread, blueberries, cream cheese, an egg custard mixture, and a cinnamon streusel topping, it is the perfect sweet breakfast casserole for Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or just because.
Now I know all my French toast bakes so far have had pecans in them, but this one does not. There are no nuts whatsoever in this overnight blueberry French toast.
And while I use sourdough, which I get at Aldi or make homemade, you can use other types of bread, including plain old sandwich bread, Challah bread, French bread, brioche, gluten-free bread, etc. The choice is up to you.
The egg mixture combines eggs with vanilla, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg, giving this blueberry French toast bake incredible flavor.
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WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the blueberry French toast casserole recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card with a longer how to video.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
Sourdough bread – Again, you can also use sandwich bread, challah bread, French bread, brioche bread, or even gluten-free bread.
Mixing Bowl or Large Glass Measuring Cup – I love using my Pyrex measuring cups for whisking any kind of egg mixture up, because I can pour it right from that cup. Makes it so easy.
Aluminum Foil – to cover the casserole while chilling and baking.
LET’S TALK ABOUT THE BREAD…
I mentioned a couple of times the types of bread you can use in this casserole. And yes, you can make this a gluten-free blueberry French toast casserole by using gluten-free bread.
But let’s talk about the freshness of the bread.
You want the bread to be at least a day old and somewhat stale, so the bread cubes will really soak up the egg mixture. This ensures you don’t have any egg mixture just sitting off to itself making a mini quiche in the middle of your casserole.
This is one reason I love to use sourdough because it’s a coarse, usually dryer bread, and it really does well with soaking up all that liquid from the eggs and milk.
Of course, you can also dry the bread out a bit by opening up the bag the night before and letting it get air. Or spread the slices out on a baking sheet, and let sit in a low heat oven for just a bit to lose some of the moisture.
HOW TO MAKE BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE
Before you get started layering your recipe, go ahead and grease a 9″x13″ baking dish with cooking spray. If you’re baking it now without chilling, you’ll also need to preheat your oven to 350° F.
Combine the cream cheese and brown sugar in a mixing bowl, and set aside.
Cube the bread into small 1-inch cubes, and add 1/2 of your bread cubes to the bottom of the baking dish.
Spoon small dollops of the cream cheese mixture onto the bread cubes until you’ve used it all.
Sprinkle half the blueberries over the bread and cream cheese.
Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the blueberries.
Then sprinkle on the rest of the blueberries, sprinkling them evenly all over the casserole.
In a large bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the baking dish, making sure to soak every single piece of bread.
At this point, you can either cover and chill the casserole for at least 4 to 6 hours or overnight. Or you can go ahead and mix up the streusel topping and bake it.
I prefer to refrigerate my overnight blueberry French toast because it lets everything sit and soak into the bread a little longer, bringing out all of the wonderful flavors later on when baking.
But sometimes I just want to bake it and be done. And that’s ok too.
HOW TO MAKE THE STREUSEL TOPPING:
Ok, I’m just going to say this. Do NOT skip the streusel topping. This topping makes this casserole. You MUST make the topping.
Don’t worry, it’s super easy to make. Before you get started, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350° F.
Crumble the topping over the entire French toast casserole.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake for about 50 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Allow it to cool for at least 10 to 15 minutes after baking. Then slice it and serve it with powdered sugar, maple syrup, blueberry sauce/syrup, and more blueberries.
ALTERNATIVE FRUIT OPTIONS
While I use blueberries in this recipe, you could switch out the blueberries for strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, or other types of fruit.
You could even combine blueberries with other berries or maybe even peaches.
As for using frozen blueberries instead of fresh, you likely would be fine to use frozen blueberries. Be aware, though, that using frozen fruit can add more moisture to whatever recipe you’re making, so your baked French toast could end up a little on the mushy side.
CAN YOU FREEZE FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE?
Yes, you can freeze a blueberry French toast casserole before or after baking. Just be sure it’s either in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Also, be sure to allow enough time for thawing in the refrigerator before baking. Bake time will vary, depending on whether or not your casserole was already baked before freezing.
Re-heating after freezing…
Allow time for the casserole to thaw in the fridge. Then cover with aluminum foil, and re-heat in a 350° F oven for about half an hour, or until it’s warmed through.
Re-heating after refrigerating…
You can re-heat it in the oven or microwave. If you’re in a hurry, it’s easier and quicker to re-heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals until it’s heated through.
Bake a blueberry French toast casserole with cream cheese and a cinnamon streusel topping. Quick and easy overnight breakfast recipe that tastes so amazing!
9×13 Baking Dish
Whisk
Pastry Blender
Casserole:
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup light brown sugar
20 ounces sourdough bread
2 cups fresh blueberries
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Streusel Topping:
4 tablespoons salted butter (sliced)
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and brown sugar; then set aside.
Cube the bread into small 1-inch cubes, and add 1/2 of the bread cubes to the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spoon small dollops of the cream cheese mixture onto the bread cubes until you’ve used it all.
Sprinkle half the blueberries over the bread and cream cheese.
Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the blueberries.
Then sprinkle on the rest of the blueberries, sprinkling them evenly all over the casserole.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the baking dish, making sure to soak every single piece of bread.
At this point, you can either cover and chill the casserole for at least 4 to 6 hours or overnight; or you can go ahead and mix up the streusel topping and bake it.
When you're ready to bake the casserole, remove it from the fridge, and preheat the oven to 350° F.
Using a pastry blender, mix together the sliced butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small mixing bowl.
Crumble the topping over the entire French toast casserole.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake at 350° F for about 45-50 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Allow it to cool for at least 10 to 15 minutes after baking. Then slice it and serve it with powdered sugar, maple syrup, blueberry sauce/syrup, and more blueberries.
*While I use sourdough, which I get at Aldi or make homemade, you can use other types of bread, including plain old sandwich bread, Challah bread, French bread, brioche, gluten-free bread, etc. The choice is up to you. You want the bread to be at least a day old and somewhat stale, so the bread cubes will really soak up the egg mixture. This ensures you don’t have any egg mixture just sitting off to itself making a mini quiche in your casserole. You can also dry the bread out a bit by opening up the bag the night before and letting it get air. Or spread the slices out on a baking sheet the morning of, and let sit in a low heat oven for just a bit to lose some of the moisture.
*If you’re wondering whether to use frozen blueberries over fresh, you likely would be fine to use frozen blueberries. Be aware, though, that using frozen fruit can add more moisture to whatever recipe you’re making, so your baked French toast could end up a little on the mushy side.
*Be sure to use real maple syrup, not table syrup.
*I prefer to refrigerate my overnight blueberry French toast overnight because it lets everything sit and soak into the bread a little longer, bringing out all of the wonderful flavors later on when baking. But sometimes I just want to bake it and be done. And that’s ok too.
ALTERNATIVE FRUIT OPTIONS
While I use blueberries in this recipe, you could switch out the blueberries for strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, or other types of fruit. You could even combine blueberries with other berries or maybe even peaches.
CAN YOU FREEZE FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE?
Yes, you can freeze a blueberry French toast casserole before or after baking. Just be sure it’s either in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Also, be sure to allow enough time for thawing in the refrigerator before baking. Bake time will vary, depending on whether or not your casserole was already baked before freezing.
Re-heating after freezing…
Allow time for the casserole to thaw in the fridge. Then cover with aluminum foil, and re-heat in a 350° F oven for about half an hour, or until it’s warmed through.
Re-heating after refrigerating…
You can re-heat it in the oven or microwave. If you’re in a hurry, it’s easier and quicker to re-heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals until it’s heated through.
Breakfast & Brunch, Main Course
American
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Make traditional Easter dinner recipes for the main course, Easter sides, breads, and more. Fill your Easter menu with family favorite foods fit for a holiday feast! You’ll also find simple and festive hosting ideas for your Easter Sunday dinner.
I really enjoyed putting together this collection of Easter dinner menu ideas for a traditional Easter dinner. If you’re not quite sure what to make for Easter dinner, I’ve got ya covered with over 50 Easter menu ideas.
What Is a Traditional Easter Dinner Menu?
I’ve always thought of honey-baked ham as being associated with the traditional Easter meal because it’s usually been our meat of choice and what we’ve always had for this special occasion, even growing up. However, traditional Easter dinner ideas include so much more.
Yes, even roast beef, pork roast, and salmon can be part of a traditional Easter feast. I guess it just depends what your family loves to eat this time of year and what traditions have been passed down through the generations.
Main things to remember when hosting a family dinner for the first time are the invitations, traditional Easter foods and drinks, the seating arrangements, and the hospitality factor. Let’s talk a little bit about each one.
“People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
– Maya Angelou
1. Make Sure to Invite Guests
Whether it’s a text message or an actual paper invitation, be sure to send out Easter dinner invitations. Otherwise, how will people know you’re even hosting dinner?
2. Plan to Make Traditional Easter Foods and Drinks
I think I’ve covered this enough below, but plan out a menu with all the Easter food ideas and drinks you want to make. Something to think about… If you’re hosting an Easter potluck, then make sure you’ve got enough people bringing sides, others bringing desserts, and so on.
3. Seating Arrangements
When I say seating arrangements, I don’t mean who sits next to who, like at a wedding; I just mean, making sure everyone has an actual place to sit, whether it’s at a table, or a seat in the living room.
Back in the day at Easter time, my family would sprawl all over my grandma’s house, from the living room to the kitchen to the back utility room. Small house for a big family, but we made it work.
You might need to think about borrowing a few extra tables and chairs from someone in the family. Or get up to the attic, and haul down all the folding chairs you have to make it work.
4. Make Your Guests Feel Welcome with Graceful Hospitality
My friend Linda, who blogs over at Life on Summerhill, has so many wonderful ideas for hosting the perfect Easter dinner, including how to create Easter table decor. Beautiful ideas she gives for Easter tablescapes inspire much creativity when it comes to setting a welcoming table for family and friends.
Not to mention all of her wonderful ideas for putting up Easter home decorations, as well. From the centerpiece to festive garland ideas and table settings, you’re sure to find loads of ideas for making your guests feel more welcome and at home.
Whew! I don’t know ’bout you, but I’m ready for all the Easter food!
Easter Appetizers
No get together or family gathering would be complete without an assortment of finger licking appetizers to whet the appetite.
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”39896″ name=”Easy Deviled Eggs in 30 Minutes or Less” summary=”<p>Can't have Easter dinner without deviled eggs, a popular Easter dinner favorite! Mix up a batch of easy deviled eggs in 30 minutes or less with this classic deviled egg recipe.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”52445″ name=”Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs” summary=”<p>Make an easy recipe for bacon Ranch deviled eggs… Because everything is better with bacon. Perfect appetizer for a crowd!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://noshingwiththenolands.com/rainbow-easter-deviled-eggs/” name=”Rainbow Easter Deviled Eggs” summary=”<p>Wonderful colorful Rainbow Easter Eggs are made with natural dyes and everyone can participate in making these. So fun for Easter to make and eat.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42390″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41070″ name=”Ham and Stuffing Crescent Rolls” summary=”<p>Ham and stuffing crescent rolls are a delicious finger food even the kids will love. They're easy to make too!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.currytrail.in/baked-potato-roses/” name=”Baked Potato Roses” summary=”<p>Baked potato roses are the ultimate party starter or simply the most gorgeous potato side dish for your every-day-meal plan!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57099″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40976″ name=”Delicious Salmon Patties Recipe” summary=”<p>Salmon patties, made with salmon and crackers, are the perfect Easter appetizer or finger food, especially when served with a tzatziki dipping sauce.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40872″ name=”Maple Sausage Stuffed Pastry Bites” summary=”<p>Made with cream cheese, spinach, and puffed pastry, sausage stuffed pastry bites are the ultimate appetizer for any holiday dinner.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://savorthebest.com/greek-cheese-triangle-pies-tiropita/” name=”Greek Cheese Triangle Pies (Tiropita)” summary=”<p>These Greek cheese triangle pies have a savory cheese filling inside flaky, buttery phyllo pastry. These make a great appetizer or side for your Easter dinner.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42415″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://happykitchen.rocks/vegan-roasted-carrot-soup-lentils/” name=”Vegan Roasted Carrot Soup with Lentils” summary=”<p>Easy and delicious Vegan Roasted Carrot Soup with lentils and Moroccan spices. This velvety, rich and healthy carrot soup has a unique and perfectly balanced flavor!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42429″]
Easter Main Dish Recipes
Traditional Easter dishes that make delicious main dishes, including ham, lamb, beef, and pork.
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”42281″ name=”How to Cook a Ham in the Oven” summary=”<p>Everything you've ever wanted to know about how to cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven. Tips, steps, and everything you need to get your Easter ham well on its way.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40862″ name=”Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham” summary=”<p>If you like a sweeter flavor to your ham, you'll love this pineapple honey glazed ham. How to get it perfectly cooked, moist, and delicious for your holiday dinner with family and friends.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://consumerqueen.com/lifestyle/sponsored-posts/crock-pot-slow-cooker-pineapple-ham-recipe” name=”Crock-Pot Slow Cooker Pineapple Ham” summary=”<p>This CrockPot slow cooker pineapple ham recipe is so yummy and plentiful that you could actually freeze left overs for later meals to save you time and money.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57100″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/glazed-ham/” name=”Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Ham” summary=”<p>You and your family or guests will love this easy baked ham with pineapple and cherries, complete with traditional pineapple rings and maraschino cherries, with its yummy, sticky, sweet and savory brown sugar bourbon glaze!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57101″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://noshingwiththenolands.com/southern-pecan-glazed-ham/” name=”Southern Pecan Glazed Ham” summary=”<p>This Southern Pecan Glazed Ham was perfection for us. Not sure I have had a better ham than this one EVER. Honey, brown sugar, sweet mustard with a hint of cloves and oranges and then smothered in pecans.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42394″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/roasted-rack-of-lamb/” name=”Roasted Rack of Lamb with Garlic and Herbs” summary=”<p>Surprisingly easy to make, Roasted Rack of Lamb with Garlic and Herbs is an impressive, crowd-pleasing main-dish full of herbaceous deliciousness. Traditionally served at Easter, this lamb recipe has the best of everything.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57102″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.supergoldenbakes.com/slow-cooker-lamb/” name=”Slow Cooker Leg of Lamb” summary=”<p>Incredibly tender Slow Cooker Roast Leg of Lamb that’s tender, juicy and falling apart at the touch of a fork. This is truly the easiest way to cook roast lamb – add a handful of ingredients to your slow cooker and leave it to work its magic.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42396″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://savorthebest.com/braised-herb-lamb-shanks/” name=”Braised Herb Lamb Shanks” summary=”<p>You will love this recipe for Braised Herb Lamb Shanks! The meat is fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor from the herb blend, wine and beef broth. This makes a great Easter dinner.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42397″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://familyspice.com/grilled-leg-lamb-rosemary-mint-garlic/” name=”Grilled Leg of Lamb with Rosemary, Mint, and Garlic” summary=”<p>Juicy, tender and ridiculously delicious, this recipe for Grilled Leg of Lamb with Rosemary, Mint and Garlic can be made with either a bone-in or boneless version and makes an impressive meal for family and friends.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42398″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.urbanblisslife.com/herb-crusted-rack-of-lamb/” name=”Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb” summary=”<p>This herb crusted rack of lamb is a classic Easter dinner! It's easy to prepare and so delicious.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42428″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.becomingness.com/slow-cooker-beef-ribs/” name=”Slow Cooker Beef Ribs” summary=”<p>Slow Cooker Beef Ribs are a great meal to serve your guests. The flavor is amazing, and they are so easy to make. Your guests will seriously be impressed!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42400″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.upstateramblings.com/sous-vide-beef-tenderloin/” name=”Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin” summary=”<p>This recipe for Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin gives you the perfect roast every time. And an elegant beef tenderloin is the perfect centerpiece for a special dinner like Easter that is delicious and surprisingly easy to make.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”42401″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”62543″ name=”Best Slow Cooker Pork Roast Recipe” summary=”<p>Learn step by step how to make the best ever slow cooker pork roast that's perfectly pull apart juicy & tender. It's the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe, so easy to make, and perfect for holiday dinners, church potlucks, or a weeknight meal!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41086″ name=”Oven Roasted Pork Roast Recipe” summary=”<p>This deliciously easy pork roast recipe with vegetables and gravy is the perfect main dish for Easter dinner. Learn how to cook a pork roast with simple seasoning in the oven.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41076″ name=”Simple and Delicious Roasted Pork Tenderloin” summary=”<p>Learn how to cook pork tenderloin, roasted to a juicy perfection in the oven. This is a very easy recipe for a delicious Easter dinner main dish, paired with simple seasonings and potatoes.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40922″ name=”Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs” summary=”<p>Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs are so easy to make. Pair them with a sweet chili dry rub that gives them a wonderful flavor, throw them in your pressure cooker, and walk away. They’re fall off the bone delicious!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.therisingspoon.com/2017/03/slow-cooker-pork-shoulder.html” name=”Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder” summary=”<p>Fall-apart-tender pork shoulder cooked in the crock-pot. This super easy recipe takes less than 10 minutes to prep and can be cooked in as little as 4-5 hours on the high setting. </p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57103″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.simplystacie.net/brown-sugar-dijon-pork-tenderloin/” name=”Brown Sugar Dijon Pork Tenderloin” summary=”<p>Brown Sugar Dijon Pork Tenderloin – Just two simple ingredients to create a meal your family will rave about!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”51698″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.mommyhatescooking.com/roasted-lemon-pepper-chicken-veggies-dutch-oven” name=”Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken and Veggies in the Dutch Oven” summary=”<p>Make a delicious dinner with this Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken & Veggies in the Dutch Oven.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57104″]
Easter Side Dishes Ideas
All the Easter dinner sides you’ll ever need for a traditional Easter dinner table that will fill bellies and warm hearts.
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40864″ name=”Homemade Ham Gravy” summary=”<p>Homemade Ham Gravy, made with leftover ham drippings and cream, is a delicious side dish that pairs with ham, mashed potatoes, and all your Easter dinner fixings!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”42318″ name=”Ham Gravy with Cornstarch” summary=”<p>Homemade ham gravy with cornstarch and drippings is perfect if you've got at least one person in the crowd who's gluten-free. It's also super easy and simple to make.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”45077″ name=”Chicken Gravy from Bouillon” summary=”<p>How to make chicken gravy from bouillon, no drippings needed! Easy recipe you can make last minute to go with dinner. Simple ingredients!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40882″ name=”Creamy Mashed Potatoes” summary=”<p>This is my family's go to recipe for creamy mashed potatoes, made with yellow potatoes, cream, and butter. They are a must have potato dish at Easter dinner.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41040″ name=”The Ultimate Mashed Potato Bar” summary=”<p>Feed a crowd on Easter day with a festive mashed potato bar at your next party filled with all sorts of delicious, mouthwatering toppings.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40426″ name=”Easy Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole Recipe” summary=”<p>I absolutely love a cheesy hash brown casserole recipe, filled with shredded cheesy potatoes and topped with Corn Flakes. It's a quick and easy side dish perfect for a crowd or potluck on Easter day!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”43872″ name=”Cheesy CrockPot Funeral Potatoes Recipe” summary=”<p>How to make cheesy CrockPot funeral potatoes. Easy slow cooker hashbrown casserole, a family favorite side dish, breakfast, or brunch recipe.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”42925″ name=”Scalloped Potatoes and Ham” summary=”<p>How to make scalloped potatoes and ham in a creamy sauce, baked in the oven. Easy, old-fashioned, homemade, cheesy casserole recipe perfect for a crowd!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.joyousapron.com/easy-garlic-parmesan-asparagus/” name=”Easy Garlic Parmesan Asparagus” summary=”<p>Asparagus, topped with lots of fragrant garlic and fresh shredded parmesan cheese, perfectly roasted in the oven. The perfect side dish for Easter Sunday!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57106″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”43911″ name=”Cheesy Slow Cooker Corn Casserole” summary=”<p>Throw together CrockPot corn casserole with cream cheese and Jiffy mix. Easy side dish recipe for a crowd. Make ahead for Thanksgiving and Easter.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40220″ name=”Jiffy Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese and Bacon” summary=”<p>Bake up a Jiffy corn casserole with cream cheese and bacon. I love this simple, easy recipe because it's so cheesy and delicious; plus you can make it ahead of time. It's the perfect side dish for Easter dinner!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”43826″ name=”Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows” summary=”<p>How to make the best southern sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and pecans. Classic Easter sweet potatoes side dish you can easily make ahead.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40838″ name=”Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cauliflower” summary=”<p>Throw together a Broccoli Salad with bacon, cauliflower, sunflower seeds, and peas. This salad is a staple side dish and salad recipe perfect for every family gathering.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”42821″ name=”Quick and Easy Ambrosia Fruit Salad” summary=”<p>Whip up a classic ambrosia fruit salad with Cool Whip, sour cream, fruit, and mini marshmallows. Easy southern side dish recipe for every holiday dinner!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40720″ name=”Layered Salad” summary=”<p>Layered Salad is the perfect salad recipe for family gatherings. Add fresh, delicious layers like cauliflower, peas, lettuce, bacon, or whatever else your heart desires.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.glueandglitter.com/broccoli-salad-kale-macadamia/” name=”Crunchy Kale Broccoli Salad with Cranberries and Macadamia Nuts” summary=”<p>Crunchy Kale Broccoli Salad is a perfect side dish, especially when you load it up with tart cranberries and rich macadamia nuts in a sweet balsamic dressing!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57107″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://julieblanner.com/homemade-potato-salad/” name=”Homemade Potato Salad” summary=”<p>An easy, homemade potato salad with egg is the best way to use up all those extra eggs from the Easter holiday. This potato salad recipe uses a few key ingredients including gherkins and mustard, and one little secret technique!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57108″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40860″ name=”Honey Glazed Carrots with Rosemary” summary=”<p>Honey Glazed Carrots, made with simple ingredients like butter, honey, and rosemary, make a delicious side dish. They're colorful and packed full of fresh flavor.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://theschmidtywife.com/roasted-carrots-dill/” name=”Easy Roasted Carrots with Dill” summary=”<p>This easy recipe for Roasted Carrots with Dill is a simple side dish to whip up for any occasion. With 4 simple ingredients, this recipe for baked carrots with dill is a breeze to make, perfect for a family dinner but also fancy enough for holidays like Thanksgiving and Easter!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57109″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.acedarspoon.com/honey-balsamic-roasted-carrots/” name=”Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe” summary=”<p>Balsamic Roasted Carrots offer a healthy side dish to your next holiday meal or weeknight dinner. The sweet honey mixed with the robust flavors of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil pair wonderfully to add flavor to this roasted carrots recipe.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57110″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://dancingthroughtherain.com/candied-carrots/” name=”Candied Carrots – Butter and Brown Sugar Glazed” summary=”<p>These Candied Carrots are the perfect addition to any dinner! With only three ingredients, this delicious dish will be one that people ask for again and again!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57111″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://joyfoodsunshine.com/best-mashed-potatoes/” name=”Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe” summary=”<p>These herb-infused garlic mashed potatoes are the best mashed potatoes you will ever eat. They are creamy, fluffy, buttery and so insanely delicious you will never make another mashed potatoes recipe again.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57112″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.simplymaderecipes.com/perfect-mashed-potatoes/” name=”Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes” summary=”<p>Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are creamy potatoes made with Russet potatoes, cream cheese, sour cream, butter, salt and pepper for the must-have side dish for any holiday gathering.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57113″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40850″ name=”Instant Pot Southern Green Beans” summary=”<p>If you've never had Southern Green Beans, made with bacon, onion, and ground beef, you're in for a real treat. Made in the Instant Pot, so they're super easy to make, they're a yummy side dish everyone will love and ask for at every holiday gathering.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://savorthebest.com/instant-pot-lebanese-braised-green-beans/” name=”Instant Pot Lebanese Braised Green Beans” summary=”<p>These Instant Pot Lebanese Braised Green Beans have all the flavor you’d get with the traditional slow braise, but without all the time. Make this Easter side dish in the IP and save room in your oven for the main course.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57114″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.beyondthechickencoop.com/green-bean-almondine/” name=”Green Beans Almondine” summary=”<p>Fresh green beans sauteed with butter and almonds and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice makes a delicious green bean almondine!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57115″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://wholenewmom.com/roasted-brussels-sprouts-with-bacon/” name=”Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon” summary=”<p>This combo of oven roasted brussels sprouts with bacon is the perfect way to convince you that yes, brussels sprouts really can be delicious! It's the perfect dish to grace your Easter table!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57117″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://www.shelovesbiscotti.com/parmesan-roasted-cauliflower/” name=”Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower” summary=”<p>Roasted Cauliflower florets sprinkled with Parmesan cheese are truly the perfect side dish for all special occasions. Includes methods for both oven-roasted and air fryer.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57118″]
Must Have Dinner Rolls!
Bread rolls are a must have with every family member at any Easter spread. When wondering what to make for Easter lunch, definitely add dinner rolls to the menu.
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40856″ name=”Grandma’s Homemade Dinner Rolls” summary=”<p>These dinner rolls have been in our family beyond when I was even born. My grandma made them with love, and they were a staple on the table every Easter Sunday. They're fluffy, light, buttery, and oh so delicious!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://flouronmyfingers.com/butterhorn-rolls/” name=”Homemade Butterhorn Rolls” summary=”<p>Bake up an easy family recipe for homemade butterhorn rolls. How to make the best buttery crescent rolls, perfect for your Thanksgiving or holiday dinner.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57122″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-dinner-rolls/” name=”The Best Homemade Dinner Rolls” summary=”<p>This Best Homemade Dinner Rolls recipe turns out perfectly every time. These easy, soft & fluffy dinner rolls are, slightly sweet and salty, irresistibly buttery and made from scratch!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”57123″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://flouronmyfingers.com/gluten-free-hot-cross-buns/” name=”Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns” summary=”<p>This hot cross buns recipe makes a sweet cinnamon dough filled with currants; top each baked bun with a frosted cross to celebrate the Easter holiday.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”61938″]
Traditional Easter Desserts
Most of us live for the dessert table at family get togethers. Now you can fill Easter baskets with chocolate eggs and other goodies, something many family traditions encompass. But I think most of us agree… Easter dinner would not be complete without dessert.
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40930″ name=”Carrot Cake in a Sheet Pan” summary=”<p>Carrot sheet cake is easy to make, moist, and delicious, paired with a cream cheese frosting that's simply to die for. </p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40858″ name=”Caramel Custard Pie” summary=”<p>Caramel custard pie, made with an easy shortcut pie crust and a brown sugar caramel twist with creamy egg custard.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40792″ name=”Bunny Tail Cupcakes” summary=”<p>Make easy and adorable bunny tail cupcakes with chocolate cupcakes, frosting, and mini marshmallows. Fun Easter dessert for kids!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://flouronmyfingers.com/no-bake-easy-banana-pudding-recipe/” name=”No Bake Banana Pudding” summary=”<p>How to make an easy no bake banana pudding with cream cheese, Cool Whip, and Nilla Wafers. Perfect for a crowd, quick and simple recipe!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”61676″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40944″ name=”Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie” summary=”<p>Easy recipe for a strawberry cream cheese pie, made with fresh strawberries, a creamy no bake filling, and a simple homemade crust. </p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40880″ name=”Chocolate Meringue Pie” summary=”<p>Make chocolate pie with a rich, creamy filling and fluffy homemade meringue on top. Delicious Easter dessert recipe perfect for chocolate lovers!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40552″ name=”Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake with Pecans” summary=”<p>Bake up an easy to make cinnamon streusel coffee cake with pecans, perfect for Easter brunch. This praline coffee cake is moist, buttery, and topped with a crispy cinnamon sugar topping.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item link=”https://flouronmyfingers.com/blueberry-coffee-cake-recipe/” name=”Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe with Streusel Topping” summary=”<p>How to make the best blueberry coffee cake recipe that's moist and delicious with tons of sweet berry flavor and a simple streusel topping.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe” image=”61942″]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41130″ name=”Blueberry Yum Yum Dessert” summary=”<p>Whip up a dreamy blueberry yum yum dessert with cream cheese, Dream Whip, blueberry pie filling, and a pecan crust. </p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”41110″ name=”Strawberry Yum Yum Dessert” summary=”<p>Easy strawberry yum yum dessert layered with fresh strawberries, cream cheese filling, and a pecan crust. Dreamy delight perfect for potlucks!</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
[wprm-recipe-roundup-item id=”40970″ name=”Lemon Poke Cake with Lemon Glaze” summary=”<p>How to make Grandma's lemon poke cake with lemon glaze, a fluffy cake recipe with a simple lemony icing drizzled on top.</p>” button=”Get the Recipe”]
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Now that you’ve filled everyone’s bellies with good food, who’s ready for a good, old-fashioned Easter egg hunt? So many wonderful Easter traditions to enjoy!
Easy brioche French toast casserole with cinnamon and pecans. Made overnight or baked the morning of, it’s the perfect recipe for breakfast, brunch, or holidays.
I’ve had a lot of readers tell me that they love to make my regular French toast casserole with brioche bread. Of course, I love when readers share these sorts of ideas because it always gets my wheels turning, thinking of new breakfast recipes.
If you’ve never had brioche, you’re in for a real treat with this recipe. This brioche French toast bake is hands down my kids’ favorite French toast casserole I’ve made to date.
You can usually find brioche bread in the bakery section of your local grocery store, and it comes already sliced. I don’t chop it up for this casserole; instead I use whole slices to make it a little bit easier.
I do like to add raisins and pecans because it’s kinda like one big sticky bun by the time this casserole bakes. But of course, these are optional, and you don’t have to add them (but I still highly recommend them; it just wouldn’t be the same without them).
The egg mixture contains vanilla, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg, giving this baked brioche French toast incredible flavor.
Top it all off with a sprinkling of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup, and oh my goodness, my mouth is watering. Who’s ready for breakfast?
Another easy casserole I love to make is Crock Pot French toast casserole. Throw everything in the slow cooker, and wait for it to cook. My kinda meal.
WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the brioche French toast casserole recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
Mixing Bowl or Large Glass Measuring Cup – I love using my Pyrex measuring cups for whisking any kind of egg mixture up, because I can pour it right from that cup. Makes it so easy.
Aluminum Foil – to cover the casserole while baking.
WHAT IS BRIOCHE BREAD?
Brioche is a French bread that’s very similar to the kind of pastry used for danishes. You can usually find it in loaves, braids, or rolls.
It has a very high egg and butter content, making it very soft and very rich. It can sometimes have a slight sweetness to it, as well.
Sometimes it’ll even have different flavors. For instance, I’ve seen different flavors like vanilla cream and chocolate chip at Aldi.
There are so many things you can do with brioche. You can make this casserole, make a delicious grilled cheese sandwich, enjoy a burger on a brioche bun, and on and on. It really is a very versatile type of bread.
Brioche makes a very good bread for French toast because of its texture, the richness of its flavor, and the fact that it’s not overly crumbly or tough. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s a beautiful bread, making it very appetizing, as well.
HOW TO MAKE BRIOCHE FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE
Before you get started compiling your sweet breakfast casserole, you need to grease a 9″x13″ baking dish with cooking spray. If you’re baking it now without chilling, you’ll also need to preheat your oven to 350° F.
In a small mixing bowl, mix together the melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Spread this mixture on the bottom of your greased baking dish.
Place 2 rows of the brioche bread slices in the pan, sprinkling raisins and half of the pecans in between each slice.
Then sprinkle the rest of the pecans on top.
In a separate mixing bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the pan.
Now at this point you can either cover and chill the casserole overnight, or you can go ahead and bake it. It’s totally up to you.
When you’re ready to bake the casserole, you’ll need to cover the dish with foil, and bake it at 350° F for about 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
BEST TOPPINGS FOR FRENCH TOAST
You may want to add certain kinds of toppings to your French toast. I like to keep it simple and just give our French toast a sprinkling of powdered sugar or a generous drizzle of real maple syrup. It’s so, so good!
Of course, you could also top it off with all sorts of other things, including…
Butter
Fresh berries and fruit – blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries
HOW TO KEEP FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE FROM GETTING SOGGY
Once your casserole is baked, it should be soft in the middle but slightly crispy on top. It should come to an internal temperature of 160° F with a food thermometer.
There are a few things you can do to ensure that your French toast casserole is not soggy.
Instead of pouring the egg mixture right over the bread in the pan, you can soak the bread in a separate dish instead. Then carefully place each slice in the pan.
On a related note, if you are pouring the egg mixture over the bread, each piece of bread really needs to be completely soaked, so it firms up as it bakes. Try not to leave liquid just sitting in the pan; make sure it’s all soaked up.
Use a more shallow baking dish or baking pan, something like a sheet cake pan or baking sheet with sides. This helps all that liquid to spread out instead of just sitting on your bread. Of course, you may need to adjust your cooking time if changing the size of your pan.
Be sure to follow the recipe to a t. Don’t add any extra liquid or change the type of liquid used. If you do make changes, it will alter the recipe, and it could lead to soggy French toast.
CAN YOU FREEZE A FRENCH TOAST BAKE?
Yes, you can freeze French toast casserole before or after baking. Just be sure it’s either in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Also, be sure to allow enough time for thawing in the refrigerator before baking. Bake time will vary, depending on whether or not your casserole was already baked before freezing.
Re-heating after freezing…
Allow time for the casserole to thaw in the fridge. Then cover with aluminum foil, and re-heat in a 350° F oven for about half an hour, or until it’s warmed through.
Re-heating after refrigerating…
You can re-heat it in the oven or microwave. If you’re in a hurry, it’s easier and quicker to re-heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals until it’s heated through.
Easy brioche French toast casserole with cinnamon and pecans. Baked overnight or morning of, it's the perfect recipe for breakfast, brunch, or holidays.
9×13 Baking Dish
Whisk
Large Mixing Bowl
1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
12 slices brioche bread
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray; if you're baking it now without chilling, preheat the oven to 350° F.
In a small mixing bowl, mix together the melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Spread this mixture on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Place 2 rows of brioche bread slices in the pan, sprinkling raisins and half of the pecans in between each slice.
Sprinkle the rest of the pecans on top.
In a separate mixing bowl whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the pan.
At this point, cover and chill the casserole overnight, or go ahead and bake it.
When you're ready to bake the casserole, cover the dish with aluminum foil, and bake it at 350° F for about 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Once the casserole is baked, it should be soft in the middle but slightly crispy on top. It should come to an internal temperature of 160° F with a meat thermometer.
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a generous drizzle of real maple syrup.
*Be sure to use real maple syrup, not table syrup.
*I used 12 slices of Marketside brioche bread from Walmart. You may be able to add more or less slices, depending on the thickness of the slices in the loaf that you purchase.
HOW TO KEEP FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE FROM GETTING SOGGY
There are a few things you can do to ensure that your French toast casserole is not soggy.
Instead of pouring the egg mixture right over the bread in the pan, you can soak the bread in a separate dish instead. Then carefully place each slice in the pan.
On a related note, if you are pouring the egg mixture over the bread, each piece of bread really needs to be completely soaked, so it firms up as it bakes. Try not to leave liquid just sitting in the pan; make sure it’s all soaked up.
Use a more shallow baking dish or baking pan, something like a sheet cake pan or baking sheet with sides. This helps all that liquid to spread out instead of just sitting on your bread. Of course, you may need to adjust your cooking time if changing the size of your pan.
Be sure to follow the recipe to a t. Don’t add any extra liquid or change the type of liquid used. If you do make changes, it will alter the recipe, and it could lead to soggy French toast.
BEST TOPPINGS FOR FRENCH TOAST
You can top it off with all sorts of things, besides powdered sugar and maple syrup, including…
Butter
Fresh berries and fruit – blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries
Yes, you can freeze French toast casserole before or after baking. Just be sure it’s either in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Also, be sure to allow enough time for thawing in the refrigerator before baking. Bake time will vary, depending on whether or not your casserole was already baked before freezing.
Re-heating after freezing…
Allow time for the casserole to thaw in the fridge. Then cover with aluminum foil, and re-heat in a 350° F oven for about half an hour, or until it’s warmed through.
Re-heating after refrigerating…
You can re-heat it in the oven or microwave. If you’re in a hurry, it’s easier and quicker to re-heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals until it’s heated through.
Breakfast & Brunch, main dish
American
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Whip up a Crock Pot French toast casserole you can make ahead or same day. Easy slow cooker breakfast recipe for a crowd. Make it regular or gluten free!
French toast has always been a rare breakfast treat, but it can be a hard dish to make for a crowd.
Slow cooker French toast, on the other hand, makes it so much easier to keep everything warm until everyone can eat. It’s the answer to all your French toast woes.
What I love about this CrockPot cinnamon French toast is that it’s so moist and so full of flavor. The cinnamon brown sugar topping really gives it a kick and adds a sweeter touch to this yummy casserole recipe.
It’s quick and easy to whip up, though cook time does take at least a couple of hours. But you can either make it ahead of time the night before, or get up early and have it ready by breakfast time same day, your preference.
Rather make it in the oven? This oven baked easy French toast casserole is very similar, but with baking instructions for the oven. And we really enjoy making brioche French toast bake, which requires no chopping whatsoever.
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WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED FOR CROCK POT FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE:
Sandwich bread – I’ve actually used both regular sandwich bread and gluten-free bread.
I also like to prep the topping beforehand, so it’s ready to go. Just mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together in a small bowl (a pastry blender works best for this), and set it aside for now.
Cube the bread into small 1-inch cubes, and layer it with the pecans in your slow cooker.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and pecans in the Crock Pot, and give it all a gentle toss. Make sure all the bread is good and soaked.
Crumble the cinnamon brown sugar topping over the entire casserole. It’s a really moist mixture, so it’s more like clumps of cinnamon brown sugar.
Place the lid on your slow cooker, and cook on high for 2 to 2 1/2 hours… Or you can cook it on low for 3 to 4 hours.
To make sure it’s done, I use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and make sure it’s up to the proper temp for eggs.
You can slice it and serve it with powdered sugar and/or maple syrup. Keep the rest of your casserole warm, using the “Keep Warm” setting on your slow cooker, if applicable.
WHAT KIND OF BREAD SHOULD I USE?
While you can make a Crock Pot French toast bake with Texas toast, sourdough, challah bread, French bread, or really any other type of fresh baked bread, I usually use a regular loaf of plain sandwich bread.
This recipe is simple, so you can hopefully either use what you already have or easily find what you need while you’re at the store.
CAN YOU USE STALE BREAD FOR FRENCH TOAST?
Yes. In fact, it’s actually the best thing to use stale bread because…
Fresh bread can actually make really soggy French toast.
And the dry, stale bread really soaks up the egg mixture well, leaving little to no liquid around the bread cubes in the slow cooker.
If your bread is really fresh, you can always let it sit out for a couple of hours before making the casserole. Or just leave the bag open overnight and let the bread air out.
If it’s the morning of and you need it dried quickly, put it in a low temp oven (about 250° F) for a short time, until the bread has dried just a bit.
CAN I MAKE THIS A GLUTEN-FREE FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE?
Yes, you can. In fact, that’s what I did with this particular recipe (and what’s pictured in this recipe).
Just substitute in your favorite gluten-free bread in place of the regular sandwich bread included in the ingredients. Depending on the bread you use, it may be a bit more crumbly, but it’s just as delicious.
Also, be sure to check labels on your spices and other ingredients, just to be on the safe side, and make sure they are really gluten-free.
CAN I LEAVE OUT THE PECANS?
I get it. Not everyone’s a fan of French toast casserole with pecans.
You can totally leave out the pecans altogether. OR you can add a different kind of nut like walnuts.
CAN YOU FREEZE FRENCH TOAST?
You can freeze overnight French toast. While I recommend freezing it after it’s already been cooked, you can also freeze it before cooking.
Keep in mind it’ll keep longer in the freezer if it’s already been cooked. And I’d add the topping later right before you actually slow cook it.
Be sure to cover it well or seal it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
HOW DO YOU RE-HEAT FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE?
Re-heating after freezing…
Allow time for the casserole to thaw in the fridge. Then cover with aluminum foil, and re-heat in a 350° F oven for about half an hour, or until it’s warmed through.
Re-heating after refrigerating…
You can re-heat it in the oven or microwave. If you’re in a hurry, it’s easier and quicker to re-heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals until it’s heated through.
Whip up a Crock Pot French toast casserole you can make ahead or same day. Easy slow cooker breakfast recipe for a crowd. Make it regular or gluten free!
Pastry Blender
6-Quart Slow Cooker
Casserole:
24 ounces sandwich bread
1 cup pecans (chopped)
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping:
4 tablespoons salted butter (sliced)
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Grease a 6 to 7-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Cube the bread into small 1-inch cubes, and layer it with the pecans in the slow cooker.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, real maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and pecans in the CrockPot, and give it all a gentle toss. Make sure all the bread is good and soaked.
In a separate small mixing bowl, mix together the sliced butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Crumble the cinnamon brown sugar topping over the entire casserole; it’s a really moist mixture.
Place the lid on the slow cooker, and cook on high for 2 to 2 1/2 hours; or cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
To make sure it's done, you can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it's up to the proper temp for eggs.
Slice it and serve it with powdered sugar and/or maple syrup. Keep the rest of the casserole warm, using the “Keep Warm” setting on the slow cooker, if applicable.
*While you can make a Crock Pot French toast bake with Texas toast, sourdough, challah bread, French bread, or really any other type of fresh baked bread, I usually use a regular loaf of plain sandwich bread.
*If you need this to be a gluten-free French toast casserole, substitute in your favorite gluten-free bread in place of the regular sandwich bread included in the ingredients. Depending on the bread you use, it may be a bit more crumbly, but it’s just as delicious. Also, be sure to check labels on your spices and other ingredients, just to be on the safe side, and make sure they are really gluten-free.
*You can totally leave out the pecans altogether. OR you can add a different kind of nut like walnuts.
*Be sure to use real maple syrup. Table syrup will likely change the recipe.
CAN YOU USE STALE BREAD FOR FRENCH TOAST?
Yes, in fact, it’s actually the best thing to use stale bread because…
Fresh bread can actually make really soggy French toast.
And the dry, stale bread really soaks up the egg mixture well, leaving little to no liquid around the bread cubes in the slow cooker.
If your bread is really fresh, you can always let it sit out for a couple of hours before making the casserole. Or if it’s the night before, just leave the bag open overnight and let the bread air out.
If it’s the morning of and you need it dried quickly, put it in a low temp oven (about 250° F) for a short time, until the bread has dried just a bit.
Breakfast & Brunch, main dish
American
breakfast casserole, casserole recipe, Crock Pot French toast casserole, CrockPot cinnamon French toast, French toast bake, French toast casserole, gluten-free French toast casserole, how to make slow cooker French toast, slow cooker French toast
How to make the best homemade hot chocolate mix. Easy recipe, perfect for gifts in a jar. Makes a rich and creamy hot cocoa that’ll warm you right up.
Homemade hot chocolate mix makes the creamiest cup of hot chocolate, the perfect warm beverage to cozy up with on a cold winter day. Made with only 4 ingredients, it’s also simple and easy to make. And it makes the best hot chocolate cookies!
My middle child, Jaden, and I share a love for homemade hot cocoa. I think it started when he was around preschool age, and I’d mix him up some hot chocolate in his festive little snowman cup.
Ever since, we’ve loved coming in together out of the cold to a teapot full of hot water, a warm mug of homemade hot chocolate, and a handful of mini marshmallows.
Don’t get me wrong… We enjoy our store bought mix. One of our favorites has always been Swiss Miss.
But I really wanted to try making our own hot cocoa mix, so I did a little research and came up with my own recipe for a homemade hot cocoa mix.
Another one of my favorites throughout the winter months, and especially around Christmas, is this homemade hot chocolate with chocolate chips. Only 3 ingredients, and it’s so creamy delicious!
WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my tips, important info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
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Homemade hot chocolate mix also makes great Mason jar gifts. Grab a pretty Mason jar, fill it with your mix, and maybe add a few mini marshmallow bits for even more yumminess.
CAN I USE A CHOCOLATE DRINK MIX INSTEAD OF COCOA POWDER?
No, I wouldn’t recommend doing this, because if you do, you’ll be adding extra sugar and other ingredients to your hot chocolate mix. It will not turn out the way it should and will probably be way too sweet.
IS HOMEMADE HOT CHOCOLATE MIX GLUTEN-FREE?
It really depends on the ingredients you use.
Dry milk can have wheat or the possibility of contamination with wheat. So, you really need to look for a specifically gluten-free instant dry milk powder if you need gluten-free.
Also, watch your cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and coffee creamer to be sure they don’t have any cross-contamination.
How to make the best homemade hot chocolate mix. Easy recipe, perfect for gifts in a jar. Makes a rich and creamy hot cocoa that'll warm you right up.
Scoop
1-Gallon Jar
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups instant dry milk powder
1/2 cup French Vanilla coffee creamer
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to remove any lumps.
Mix in the dry milk powder.
Then add the coffee creamer, and whisk everything together ’til mixed well.
Add the homemade hot chocolate mix to an airtight container or large jar with lid for storage.
To mix up a cup of homemade hot chocolate, add 1/2 cup hot chocolate mix to your favorite mug. Add 8 ounces hot water. Stir everything together well. Top it off with mini marshmallows or whipped cream.
*Do not substitue a chocolate drink mix for unsweetened cocoa powder. If you do, you’ll be adding extra sugar and other ingredients to your hot chocolate mix. It will not turn out the way it should and will probably be way too sweet.
**Dry milk can have wheat or the possibility of contamination with wheat. So, if you need a gluten-free option, you really need to look for a specifically gluten-free instant dry milk powder. Also, watch your cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and coffee creamer to be sure they don’t have any cross-contamination.
6. You can add warm milk instead of hot water. With the milk powder, I find that it’s creamy enough, so I simply add hot water to my mix and stir it up.
Beverage, Drinks
American
homemade hot chocolate, homemade hot chocolate mix, homemade hot cocoa, homemade hot cocoa mix, hot chocolate mix in a jar, hot chocolate mix recipe, hot cocoa mix, hot cocoa mix in a jar, how to make hot chocolate mix from scratch
Learn how to make hash brown casserole with Corn Flakes, filled with cheesy shredded potatoes and a crispy topping. This quick and easy side dish recipe is perfect for breakfast, family dinner, or a holiday spread. Feed a crowd and watch them go back for seconds!
Back in the day, I remember many a church potluck where someone would bring the most flavorful hash brown casserole ever. Both that potato casserole with Corn Flakes and the green bean casserole were always one of my favorite things about potlucks and special occasions!
Thumbing through my family cookbook, I realized my aunt added her family favorite recipe for cheesy hashbrown casserole. And let me tell you, this cheesy side dish brings back so many delicious memories.
Now some might call this cheesy funeral potatoes. My aunt calls it sour cream potatoes. I’m just calling it like it is… a cheesy hashbrown casserole recipe.
What You’ll Love about This Side Dish
My goodness, how cheesy delicious these cheesy potatoes are.
I love using my slow cooker to make this casserole too. CrockPot funeral potatoes are the ultimate comfort food.
It’s a great recipe for the perfect side dish. This crowd favorite cheesy potato casserole is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and that one Easter side dish everyone will love! It’s a family favorite for Sunday dinner and family gatherings served up alongside a CrockPot pork roast!
What Is Hash Brown Casserole Made Of?
Hash brown casserole is a potato dish that’s very cheesy and has delicious flavor, thanks in part to the sour cream. But it also has a mix of ingredients like soup, onion, and butter that give it tremendous flavor, as well.
It’s a comforting side dish served at church potlucks, family gatherings, holiday dinners, and after-funeral luncheons too, hence the name funeral potatoes. Cracker Barrel even serves cheesy hashbrown potatoes on their menu.
Ingredients and Substitutions Notes:
You’ll need a few simple ingredients to make this simple casserole…
Frozen Hash Browns – Be sure to thaw them beforehand; just follow the instructions on the packaging, and allow ample time for thawing. You can use shredded or cubed hash browns, but I highly recommend shredded for the texture they give the casserole.
Minced Garlic – You can either mince up garlic cloves or use already minced garlic found in most produce sections.
Cream of Chicken Soup – You can also use cream of mushroom soup if you prefer, but it will change the flavor just a bit.
Yellow Onion – While we prefer to use yellow onion for its less sweet flavor and to give a little kick to every bite, you can also use a sweet onion.
Sour Cream – I recommend whole sour cream rather than low fat. You can also substitute Greek yogurt instead.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – I actually prefer to use extra sharp cheddar cheese for added flavor (and it’s usually what I have on hand). Lots of cheese gives lots of flavor.
Corn Flakes – You can also substitute potato chips for the Corn Flake mixture.
How to Make Hash Brown Casserole with Corn Flakes
In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, melted butter, salt, pepper, minced onion, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
In a smaller mixing bowl, mix together the slightly crushed Corn Flakes and melted butter.
Sprinkle the buttery CornFlakes over the top of the casserole in the casserole dish.
Bake uncovered at 350° F for about 1 hour, ’til the casserole is golden brown.
And that’s it! When it’s done, this easy hash brown casserole is ready to serve while warm.
Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s
How do you crush Corn Flakes?
To quickly crush the Corn Flakes, just put them in a quart sized plastic bag, and seal the bag, making sure there’s no air left in it. Then just crush the cereal with your hands, or with a rolling pin. For this recipe, they just need to be slightly crushed, so no need to spend a lot of time on this.
How do you make this a gluten-free hash brown casserole?
Sadly, regular cream of chicken soup is NOT gluten-free. And you may want to watch which hash browns you use too, because some have a coating that makes them not gluten-free, as well. BUT there is hope for all of us gluten-free peeps. There are gluten-free hash browns; just read the labels on the packaging before purchasing. AND there are options for gluten-free cream of chicken soup, as well. So you can make this a gluten-free hash brown casserole if needed.
How do you store leftover casserole; and can hash brown casserole be made ahead?
Yes, you can make this casserole the night before, the day before, etc. You can even freeze hash brown casserole. Just be sure to store leftover casserole in an airtight container so it doesn’t get freezer burn.
Why is my hash brown casserole watery?
The answer is that you likely didn’t thaw the hash browns beforehand. This is why it’s so important to allow adequate time for thawing before mixing and baking.
What Goes with Corn Flake Casserole?
Potato casserole with Corn Flakes pairs well with these delicious side dish recipes:
I’ve joined up with a bunch of blogger friends for a Friendsgiving Virtual Potluck! Be sure to check out the recipes below for wonderful Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving recipe and craft 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!
Hash Brown Casserole with Corn Flakes
How to make hash brown casserole with Corn Flakes, filled with cheesy shredded potatoes and a crispy topping. Quick and easy side dish recipe.
Large Mixing Bowl
Cutting Board
Chef's Knife
9×13 Baking Dish
30 ounces frozen hash browns (thawed)
1/2 cup salted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup yellow onion (minced)
10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
1 pint sour cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
Corn Flake Topping:
2 cups Corn Flakes (slightly crushed)
1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
Pre-heat the oven to 350° F.
In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, melted butter, salt, pepper, minced garlic and onion, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
Spread the potato mixture in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
In a smaller mixing bowl, mix together the slightly crushed Corn Flakes and melted butter.
Sprinkle the buttery Corn Flakes over the top of the casserole in the casserole dish.
Bake uncovered at 350° F for about 1 hour, 'til the casserole is golden brown.
Serve while warm.
*I prefer to use extra sharp cheddar for added flavor, but sharp is fine, as well.
*To quickly crush the Corn Flakes, just put them in a quart sized plastic bag, and seal the bag, making sure there’s no air left in it. Then just crush the cereal with your hands, or with a rolling pin.
You can make this a gluten-free hash brown casserole by using gluten-free hash browns (watch the packaging) and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
You can make ahead and freeze hash brown casserole. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container so it doesn’t get freezer burn.
Side Dish
American
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How to make homemade cranberry sauce using fresh cranberries and 3 more ingredients. Simple and easy recipe, perfect for Thanksgiving and the holidays.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce is so easy to make and pretty delicious too. In fact, the first Thanksgiving we made our own, we wondered why we’d never made it before.
Fresh cranberry sauce with orange zest is so much better than the canned stuff. For one thing, it doesn’t plop out in canned gel form.
If you buy a bag of fresh cranberries, the recipe is right there on the bag. You can also get creative with the recipe and add different flavors to your cranberry relish, like citrus or cinnamon or whatever else your imagination can cook up.
With this recipe, I followed the instructions on the back of the bag (Ocean Spray Cranberries) and then added a little citrus zing.
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WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
If you love this fresh cranberry sauce with orange as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!
How to make homemade cranberry sauce using fresh cranberries and 3 more ingredients. Simple and easy recipe, perfect for Thanksgiving and the holidays.
Medium Saucepan
Zester
1 cup cane sugar
1 cup water
12 ounces cranberries
1 teaspoon orange zest
Add the sugar and water to a medium saucepan, and bring to a boil.
Add the cranberries; then return the mixture to a boil.
Lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add in the orange zest, simmering for another 5 minutes or so.
Pour the cranberry sauce into a serving bowl, and allow to cool.
Refrigerate or serve.
*Orange zest is optional; if you’d rather not add citrus flavor to your cranberry sauce, just leave it out.
Side Dish
American
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Bake up a Jiffy corn casserole with cream cheese and bacon. Simple and easy make ahead recipe that’s cheesy and delicious. Perfect side dish for a crowd!
Corn casserole with cream cheese is easily one of my family’s favorite side dish recipes during the holiday season. We usually make it every Thanksgiving, also Christmas and Easter dinner too.
It’s the perfect complement to a nice ham or turkey dinner. And just like our Mexican corn casserole, it has bacon too. Because we all know, bacon makes everything better!
We also make this corn casserole with Jiffy mix. It gives it a kind of breading but in a very moist, delicious sort of way, and it’s all mixed in with the rest of the ingredients.
What you end up with is a very creamy, flavorful, cheesy side dish you’ll likely add to your holiday menu from henceforth and forevermore.
I like to make it in my slow cooker too, making it easy to transport and keep warm. In fact, I might love CrockPot corn casserole a tad bit more, if that’s even possible.
Let’s talk about how to make this scrumptious corn casserole with bacon.
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WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
IS JIFFY CORN CASSEROLE THE SAME AS JIFFY CORN PUDDING?
Yes, it’s the same as corn pudding. You’re basically mixing a bunch of ingredients together to create a creamy side dish.
The casserole isn’t fully stable either, like a slice of corn bread would be. It requires you to spoon it onto your plate, versus eating with your hands.
You can make corn casserole ahead of time and warm it up for your holiday dinner.
Before you get started mixing it up, be sure to cook the bacon and set it aside. You’ll need 5 to 6 slices, so you can even cook a little extra at breakfast and stick it in the fridge ’til you need it.
Also, you’ll need to mince the green onions and have those ready to go.
Here are the steps for making it…
In a medium saucepan, add the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, salted butter, sugar, and sour cream. Cook the mixture on low heat until the cream cheese is fully melted. Use a heat resistant spatula to constantly stir and keep the mixture from scorching.
Pour the casserole mixture into the greased baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread throughout the dish, and bake according to the instructions in the recipe card below.
Finally, add shredded cheese to the top of the casserole, and bake an additional 10 minutes.
Serve the deliciously cheesy corn casserole while warm and enjoy! It’s so good!
IS CORN CASSEROLE GLUTEN-FREE?
It’s not gluten-free if made with ordinary Jiffy mix. BUT… That doesn’t mean you can’t make it gluten-free.
In fact, I found a great recipe for Gluten Free Jiffy-Style Corn Muffin Mix over at Gluten Free on a Shoestring. I can’t wait to try substituting this cornbread mix for the Jiffy mix in my own casserole this Thanksgiving.
CAN YOU FREEZE CORN CASSEROLE?
Absolutely, yes, you can! The ingredients used in corn casserole are all pretty conducive to freezing.
Bake up a Jiffy corn casserole with cream cheese and bacon. Simple and easy make ahead recipe that's cheesy and delicious. Perfect side dish for a crowd!
Medium Saucepan
Heat-Resistant Spatula
Large Mixing Bowl
9×13 Baking Dish
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
4 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon cane sugar
1 tablespoon sour cream
6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
3 green onions (minced)
32 ounces frozen corn
1/2 box JIFFY Corn Muffin Mix
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
Pre-heat the oven to 325° F.
In a medium saucepan, add the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, salted butter, sugar, and sour cream.
Cook the mixture on low heat until the cream cheese is fully melted. Constantly stir to keep the mixture from scorching.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cream cheese mixture, crumbled bacon, minced green onions, frozen corn, JIFFY Corn Muffin Mix (1/2 a box), salt, and pepper.
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
Pour the casserole mixture into the baking dish, making sure it's evenly spread throughout the dish.
Bake at 325° F for about 55 minutes, or until the mixture is set.
Add the shredded cheese to the top of the casserole, and bake an additional 10 minutes.
Serve while warm and enjoy!
*If you’re feeding a smaller crowd, just cut the recipe ingredients in half and bake it in an 8″x8″ baking dish.
How to make the most delicious homemade apple juice without a juicer and without any added sugar. Simple and easy Instant Pot recipe.
For the longest time, I really thought I needed an apple juicer or an apple press for juicing apples. I’m not sure why I thought that because after learning how to make my own apple juice, I realize how easy it really is.
While I use my Instant Pot, you can totally make this homemade apple juice on your stove. The cook time just may be a little longer.
There is no added sugar in this apple juice either. The only ingredients you need are apples and water. Of course, you want a sweeter tasting apple, but we’ll talk about the types of apples you can use.
It’s easy to make; your Instant Pot does most of the work for you.
Have I mentioned it’s the most delicious apple juice recipe?
What Are the Benefits of Making Your Own Apple Juice?
Remember the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away?” Apples have a ton of nutritional value and are a great addition to our diet.
While you’d probably get a LOT more benefit out of the whole apple, apple juice is a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It’s also a great source of antioxidants.
And since you are able to cook most of the apple, including the core and peeling, when making apple juice, you may have added fiber and other nutrients that a whole apple provides.
Not to mention, homemade apple juice tastes so much better than store bought. It’s so fresh and crisp and light.
Ingredients Notes:
You only need 2 ingredients to make apple juice without a juicer…
Apples – You’ll need about 5 pounds of apples. I prefer to use a sweeter apple, so I don’t have to add any sugar. Something like Gala or Honeycrisp works well. We’ll talk more about apples a little further below.
Water
What Kind of Apples Should I Use to Make Apple Juice?
There are certain types of apples that are sweeter and certain types of apples that have a more tangy, sour taste. As I mentioned above, when making homemade apple juice, you probably want to use a sweeter apple, so you don’t have to add any sugar.
I used Gala apples for this recipe because they were available as seconds at our local orchard. Gala have a very sweet taste.
The best apples for juicing include:
Gala
Honeycrisp
Fuji
Yellow Delicious or Golden Delicious
Rome
and Pink Lady
Where Can I Find the Best Apples for Juicing?
Fall is a great time to find the best apples for juicing, but you can use any apples you find, whether you’re shopping at an orchard, a farmer’s market, or the store.
However, in the fall, you can usually buy seconds at just about any orchard (and sometimes at the farmer’s market). Meaning you can buy a HUGE box of apples for a lot less than normal cost, which is going to save you a ton of money.
Now I will say… It takes a LOT of apples to get very little juice, jelly, apple butter, or applesauce. But in my opinion, it’s totally worth it.
How to Make Apple Juice without a Juicer
For this recipe, you’ll need about 5 pounds of apples, a little bit of water, and an Instant Pot (a pot on the stove will work too, just with a longer cooking time).
Be sure to wash the apples before you get started. I like to soak any fruit we eat in a vinegar/water bath for at least 10 minutes or more.
How to Make Fresh Apple Juice without an Apple Juicer, Step By Step…
Using a paring knife, remove any bad spots. Core the apples, either peeling them or leaving the peeling intact; you’ll throw the peeling in the pot too, even if you peel the apples.
Cut the apples into chunks.
Remove the stem and the blossom ends of the apple cores, and throw the cores into your Instant Pot, along with the apple chunks and peelings.
Add enough water to cover about half of the apples. In our case, we used about 5 pounds of apples and 5 cups of water.
Close your Instant Pot, and set it to Pressure Cook on Normal for 6 minutes. Let the valve naturally release after cooking.
Try not to squeeze the ingredients too much, so you don’t get a lot of pulp in your juice. Instead let the juice drip into a container for an hour or so.
What’s the difference between apple juice and apple cider?
There are a few differences between apple juice vs apple cider. Apple juice is going to be a thinner, more transparent liquid without any pulp left behind. Apple cider is a thicker, more opaque juice, and it may have pulp and chunks of apple left behind; you can actually make a warm mulled cider with spices and citrus. Also, in terms of commercial apple cider vs apple juice, apple juice is pasteurized and has a longer shelf life than apple cider.
Is it safe to juice apple seeds? What about Arsenic/Cyanide in the apple seeds?
Studies have shown that you’d have to eat a whole lotta seeds to have any risk of poisoning. And in this case, we’re not eating the seeds, we’re simply cooking them in the mixture to get the added benefits of the natural pectin in the apple core. I’m just going to leave you with this article from Pick Your Own: Cyanide, Arsenic, and Other Toxins in Fruit: Facts, Myths, and Old Wive’s Tales. Blender Mom also has a really informative post about how Apple Seeds Are Safe. If you’re still not sure, Here’s How Many Apple Cores It Would Take to Poison You. Again, for this recipe, we’re simply cooking the seeds and cores, then straining them out.
Can you freeze homemade apple juice?
Yes, you can. In fact, you can freeze or can apple juice, whichever you prefer. We usually don’t keep it around long enough to do either/or; but if you make enough, yes, you can freeze it. If you choose to can it, Ball has wonderful Canning Guides to guide you through the process.
How should you store apple juice?
You’ll need to store it in an airtight container, jar, or pitcher in the fridge; it should keep for about 1 week.
If You Love This Instant Pot Apple Juice Recipe, Try Some of Our Other Apple Favorites:
If you love this homemade apple juice as much as I do, you’ll love our other apple favorites too…
And learn how to use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!
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!
How to Make Homemade Apple Juice without a Juicer
How to make the most delicious homemade apple juice without a juicer and without any added sugar. Simple and easy Instant Pot recipe.
Johnny apple peeler
Paring Knife
8-Qt. Instant Pot
Mesh Strainer
Flour Sack Towels
Cheesecloth
Food Mill
5 pounds apples
5 cups water
Wash the apples.*
Remove any bad spots from the apples.
Core the apples and cut them up into chunks, either peeling them or leaving the peeling intact. Throw the chunks and peelings into your Instant Pot.
Remove the stem and the blossom ends of the apple cores, and throw the cores into the pot.
Add enough water to cover about half of the apples. In this case, we used about 5 pounds of apples and 5 cups of water.
Close your Instant Pot, and set it to Pressure Cook on Normal for 6 minutes.
Allow the valve to naturally release after cooking.
Once cooking is done, strain the juice from your apples.* You can do this using either a mesh strainer, flour sack towels, or cheesecloth.
Let the juice drip into a container for an hour or so.*
Once you have all the juice you can possibly get, pour the juice into a pitcher or cups for drinking.
For what to do with leftovers, see the Recipe Notes.*
* We used Gala apples for our juice, but you can use any kind of apples. The best apples for juicing are Gala, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Rome, and Pink Lady.
*When straining the juice from your apples, try not to squeeze the ingredients too much, so you don’t get a lot of pulp in your juice. Instead let the juice drip into a container for an hour or so.
*We hung our flour sack towel from a cabinet door handle (make sure it’s strong enough to support the weight) and let it drip into a small bucket.
Store leftover juice in an airtight container, jar, or pitcher in the fridge, where it should keep for about 1 week.
Drinks
American
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How to make easy deviled eggs in 30 minutes or less with this simple, classic recipe, the best ever for Easter, holidays, and summer get togethers!
Making deviled eggs has never been easier than this. In fact, you can probably make them almost as fast as your family will eat them.
My husband, Dan, came up with this deviled eggs recipe a few years back, so along with bacon Ranch deviled eggs, it’s one we’ve made over and over again. We like to make them for Easter and other occasions, especially summer holidays and potlucks.
While we make these deviled eggs with Miracle Whip, we do occasionally switch up the recipe, and I’ll share a few ideas for toppings and mix-ins below.
If you’d rather skip all of my tips for how to make deviled eggs, important info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the deviled eggs recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
WHAT ARE DEVILED EGGS?
Deviled eggs are boiled eggs that have been peeled, cut in half, and filled with a mixture made out of the yolks.
Usually the yolks are mixed with things like mayo, Miracle Whip, mustard, paprika, and sometimes other ingredients like bacon.
They’re usually served at holiday dinners, especially on special occasions like Easter, the 4th of July, etc.
They go by other names too, like stuffed eggs, Russian eggs, dressed eggs, salad eggs, and mimosa eggs.
WHY ARE THEY CALLED DEVILED EGGS?
As I was making this recipe, my oldest son asked a really good question. Why do we call them deviled eggs?
So, of course, we had to look it up, because honestly, I wasn’t really sure myself. I thought I had an idea, though, and I was close.
In the 1800’s, the word deviled had to do with hot and spicy foods. And according to What’s Cooking America’s Culinary Dictionary, the word deviled describes food that is dark, rich, chocolate, spicily piquant, or stimulating… Means a highly seasoned, chopped, ground, or whole mixture that is served hot or cold.
History actually has a fascinating read on The Ancient History of Deviled Eggs, dating them all the way back to the days of ancient Rome.
TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE DEVILED EGGS
First of all, you want to determine how many eggs you’ll need, based on how many people you’ll be feeding. We usually use about a dozen eggs, unless we’re making them for a big potluck, in which case we make more.
Once they’re boiled, peeled, and cooled, the process is really simple.
HOW TO BOIL EGGS FOR DEVILED EGGS
You can simply boil eggs in water on the stove for about 12 minutes or a little longer.
Or if you have an Instant Pot, you can follow this recipe for easy peel hard boiled eggs.
Once you’ve cooled and peeled the eggs, they’re ready for making deviled eggs.
HOW DO YOU MAKE DEVILED EGGS?
Now you’re ready to prep the eggs and mix up the yolk mixture.
Slice each egg in half, and remove each egg yolk, setting each egg white aside.
Mash the yolks in a mixing bowl, and combine them with Miracle Whip. You can mash them with a hand mixer or just by hand.
Mix the mustard into the yolk mixture.
Then add pepper and stir it all up again.
Spoon the creamy yolk mixture back into each halved egg white.
Optional last step: Dust each egg with a dash of paprika.
Easy deviled eggs are great for family dinners, church potlucks, holiday parties, and sometimes just a yummy snack.
DEVILED EGGS TOPPINGS AND ALTERNATIVE IDEAS
You can tweak this recipe to add a taste of this or that. Just a few ideas…
Food Network really gives the lowdown in Easter Eggs 101, and it answers this very question.
Normally, in our house, they don’t last more than a day. But 3 to 4 days max are how long I’d keep them.
CAN DEVILED EGGS BE FROZEN?
While you can freeze the egg yolks themselves or the yolk mixture, there’s no reason to do that without the egg whites. Freezing the egg whites would ruin the flavor and texture.
So, no, I don’t recommend freezing them at all.
HOW TO TRANSPORT DEVILED EGGS
When looking for ways for how to store deviled eggs and transport them (because it’s likely you’re making them for a get together), there are a few options.
Make chocolate covered Ritz crackers with peanut butter in a jiffy. Quick and easy no bake recipe, only 3 ingredients, and they’re the perfect bite-sized candy for the holidays, family gatherings, parties, and celebrations!
Ritz cookies are another one of our favorite treats during the holiday season, and I’ve made them for years. My family can’t go a Christmas without making peanut butter Ritz crackers and rice crispy peanut butter balls; they make great Valentine’s Day and Easter candies too.
Every single Christmas when I was a kid, my mom would make chocolate covered Ritz crackers with peanut butter, along with this easy buckeye recipe.
I remember we’d store these crunchy little Ritz cracker peanut butter cups in the stairwell of our old farmhouse because there was no heat and they’d stay nice and chilled there. My bedroom was at the top of said stairwell, so of course, I’d help myself as I climbed past on the way to my room.
So Many Reasons to Love This Christmas Candy
Chocolate Ritz crackers are so easy to make! And they’re no bake cookies, so they’re quick too! It’s super easy to make a double batch or triple batch of these delicious goodies.
You need a grand total of 3 ingredients to make them, unless you want to get creative and add extras, like festive sprinkles or sea salt flakes. But they’re delicious just the way they are.
I mean, if you think about it, what goes together better than chocolate and peanut butter?
As a sweet and salty treat, they’re the best of both worlds. You get a sweet snack, while at the same time, a salty snack. Yum!
They’re the perfect no bake treat for celebrations, holidays, and special occasions. They make an especially festive holiday cookie tray.
Along with a cold glass of milk, they make the perfect yummy treats for Santa.
Chocolate Melting Wafers – You can also use semi-sweet chocolate chips, chocolate baking bars, or almond bark.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Ritz Crackers with Peanut Butter
First things first, you’ll need to prep by placing a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper on a cookie sheet. Then…
Use a knife to spread peanut butter between 2 Ritz Crackers, sandwiching the peanut butter crackers together.
Set each sandwich cookie on the wax paper covered baking sheet, in preparation for dipping.
How to Prep Chocolate for Dipping
You’ll need melted chocolate that’s ready to go. Depending on the chocolate you decide to use, you can melt it a few different ways:
Melt it using a double boiler on the stove – The double boiler method is basically a pan inside of another pan with boiling water in the bottom pan. It allows for more even melting without burning, and it also keeps the chocolate warm for dipping.
Melt it in the microwave using a microwave-safe bowl or Pyrex measuring cup – This is usually the route I go. I like to use my glass measuring cup for melting the chocolate wafers in the microwave, according to package directions, usually in 15 to 30 second intervals, stirring after each increment ’til the chocolate is melted. The depth of my measuring cup makes dipping a lot easier
Or enlist the help of your family, and use a fondue pot for dipping.
Also, depending on the type of chocolate used (chocolate almond bark, candy melts, or chocolate chips), some people like to use shortening or paraffin wax, adding it into their chocolate as it melts. This allows for a thinner coat and stretches the chocolate a little further. If you use a good quality chocolate, you likely won’t need that extra step.
I started using Ghirardelli Dark Melting Wafers a few years ago, and I love them so much better than almond bark. They’re so much easier to work with, and they have fantastic flavor.
How to Dip Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Crackers
Once the chocolate is melted, dip each cracker sandwich in the melted chocolate, using the forks or tongs.
Shake off any excess chocolate before placing the chocolate peanut butter Ritz cracker cookies back on the wax paper covered sheet pan to dry.
When all your crackers have been dipped, chill them in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove them from the freezer and place them in an airtight container or festive Christmas tin (lined with wax paper) in the fridge.
Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s
How should you store chocolate Ritz crackers with peanut butter?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be kept out at room temperature, but they won’t keep as long as they will if you keep them in the fridge or freezer. Kept chilled, they’ll last up to 2 weeks.
Can you freeze Ritz cracker cookies?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container in between layers of wax paper, to avoid freezer burn.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Of course! You can use almond butter, cashew butter, etc.
Alternative Recipe Variations for Ritz Cookies
Use marshmallow fluff instead of peanut butter in between the crackers.
Add a layer of marshmallow fluff, along with peanut butter, for an even creamier treat.
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy, especially if you like a crunchier treat. Or use a different nut butter, like almond butter, cashew butter, etc.
Double or triple the layers on your cracker sandwiches, using more crackers and more peanut butter for a triple layer treat.
Drizzle the dipped crackers with white chocolate or dark chocolate. Or double dip, dipping half of each cracker in chocolate and half in white chocolate… You get the idea.
Add sprinkles, sea salt flakes, or festive sugar on top of each of your Ritz crackers dipped in chocolate, before the chocolate hardens.
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 Covered Ritz Crackers with Peanut Butter
Make chocolate covered Ritz crackers with peanut butter in a jiffy. Quick and easy no bake recipe perfect for holidays and parties!
Wax Paper
Baking Sheet
Double Boiler
Pyrex Measuring Cup
Candy Dipping Tools
Festive Christmas Tins
3 sleeves Ritz Crackers
1 cup creamy peanut butter
20 ounces dark chocolate melting wafers ((or chocolate chips))
Line a baking sheet with wax paper.
Use a table knife to spread peanut butter between 2 Ritz Crackers, sandwiching the crackers together.
Set each sandwich cookie on the wax paper lined baking sheet, in preparation for dipping.
Add the chocolate to a microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl; and melt, starting at 30 seconds, then stirring every 15-20 seconds, 'til melted and smooth.
Using 2 forks or tongs, dip each cracker sandwich in the melted chocolate; shake any excess chocolate off before placing back on the wax paper to dry.
When all the crackers have been dipped, chill them in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove them from the freezer, and place them in an airtight container. They're best stored in between layers of wax paper in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Depending on the type of chocolate used (chocolate almond bark, candy melts, or chocolate chips), some people like to use shortening or paraffin wax, adding it into their chocolate as it melts. This allows for a thinner coat and stretches the chocolate a little further. But if you use a good quality chocolate, you likely won’t need that extra step. I started using Ghirardelli Dark Melting Wafers a few years ago, and I love them so much better than almond bark. They’re so much easier to work with, and they have fantastic flavor.
You can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove. This is basically a pan inside of another pan with boiling water in the bottom pan. It allows for more even melting without burning, and it also keeps the chocolate warm for dipping.
Sweet Snacks
American
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Pork Roast Recipe – Deliciously easy pork roast recipe with vegetables and gravy, perfect for dinner tonight. How to cook a pork roast with simple seasoning in the oven.
My house is full of meat eaters. They love their meat, so I try to occasionally add a roast to our weekly menu, or baked chicken drumsticks.
A good pork roast recipe can stretch to more than just one meal, especially if you’re careful about portion sizes. That means leftover pork for the win when it comes to more dinnertime meals (or leftovers for lunch).
Not only that, but a pork roast with vegetables can mean a one pot meal. I love cooking pork roast in the Crock Pot because it’s an easy meal I can set and forget.
It’s also delicious with a good side of mashed potatoes or green beans or even a colorful salad. I’ll also share with you how to make a simple gravy to go with your roast.
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the pork roast recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
TIPS FOR HOW TO COOK A PORK ROAST
This recipe is pretty simple. I use chicken broth, a yellow onion, and garlic for simple seasoning and flavoring.
Your first step is to sear the roast in a Dutch oven. You want to brown all sides of your roast, and this usually takes about 10 minutes or so to do.
Once it’s seared, you can add all of the prepared vegetables into the pan all around the meat. We like to add potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
Then just bake the roast until it’s fully cooked.
I didn’t find it necessary with this roast because we cover it while cooking so it steams. But, depending on the size of your roast, you may want to parboil potatoes and veggies just a bit, so they get completely cooked in the amount of time they’ll cook with the meat.
You can also make a simple pork gravy with some of the leftover pork broth (instructions included in the recipe below).
PORK ROAST COOKING TIME
How long to cook pork roast really depends on a number of factors, including both your oven and the size of your roast.
We cooked ours for close to an hour or more, or until it came to temp.
SPEAKING OF PORK TEMPERATURE…
You want to make sure that it reaches the recommended internal temperature for pork, which is 145 to 160°F. We prefer not to mess around with pork and always let it come to temp before eating.
Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of your roast before removing it from the oven.
If you love this pork roast as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!
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Deliciously easy pork roast recipe with vegetables and gravy, perfect for dinner tonight. How to cook a pork roast with simple seasoning in the oven.
Pork Roast:
1 tablespoon bacon grease
4 1/12 pounds pork roast (*)
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium yellow onion (sliced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
5 medium potatoes (chopped or chunked)
5 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
Pork Gravy:
1 cup pork broth
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pre-heat the oven to 350°F.
Add bacon grease to the heated Dutch oven.
Sear the roast in the Dutch oven, being sure to brown all sides. This may take about 10 minutes or so.
Pour the chicken broth over the roast.
Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, potatoes, and carrots all around the roast.
Cover and bake at 350°F for about an hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature between 145° to 160°F.
Once your roast and vegetables are fully cooked, you can make a simple gravy. You can make it right in the same pan after removing the contents, or in a different skillet.
Whisk together the pork broth and flour over low to medium heat.
Then add water, salt, and pepper to the broth mixture, and constantly stir until the gravy starts to thicken.
Once the gravy has thickened enough to form a gravy, it’s ready to eat.
Pair the gravy with the pork roast and vegetables.
*This roast was a bone in pork roast.
Pork Recipes
American
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Pork Tenderloin – How to cook pork tenderloin, roasted to a juicy perfection in the oven. Easy recipe for a delicious dinner with simple seasonings and potatoes.
Growing up in a meat and potatoes household, I have a love relationship with meat and potatoes, even though we don’t always eat the second part of that equation. My guys love meat too, so we occasionally gravitate toward pork for dinner.
If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the pork tenderloin recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.
FIRST, LET’S TALK ABOUT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PORK LOIN AND PORK TENDERLOIN
Because yep, there is a difference. Don’t feel bad if you didn’t know, because I didn’t realize it either; I thought they were one and the same.
I share this with you because I want to make sure you get the right cut of meat for this recipe.
As it happens, pork loin is speaking about more of a pork roast, while pork tenderloin is more of a boneless filet. Pork tenderloin is that longer, thinner piece of pork that almost looks like a long roll.
This pork tenderloin recipe is really simple, and we actually only use a couple of seasonings that you likely already have in your kitchen.
Your first step is to dry the pork tenderloin with a paper towel. It’ll likely have a little bit of water in the package with it, so just pat it dry.
Then rub it down with the olive oil.
Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the entire pork tenderloin, and rub it in well.
Sear the meat in a large skillet (preferably a skillet you can also bake it in), being sure to turn it so that both sides slightly brown.
And now you’re ready to roast it.
Note: You’ll want to parboil potatoes and veggies just a bit, so they get completely cooked in the short amount of time they’ll cook with the meat.
PORK TENDERLOIN COOKING TIME
How long to cook pork tenderloin really depends on a number of factors, including both your oven and the size of your tenderloin.
We cooked ours for about 25 to 30 minutes.
You want to make sure that it reaches the recommended internal temperature for pork, which is 145 to 160°F. We prefer not to mess around with pork and always let it come to temp before eating.
Cute Pot Holders – Ok, so they don’t have to be cute, but it certainly doesn’t hurt anything.
PORK TENDERLOIN RECIPE
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How to cook pork tenderloin, roasted to a juicy perfection in the oven. Easy recipe for a delicious dinner with simple seasonings and potatoes.
Pork Tenderloin:
2 pounds pork tenderloin (*)
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons smoked sea salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Potatoes (Optional):
5 whole potatoes (chopped)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped or minced)
Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.
If you want to roast potatoes or veggies with your pork tenderloin, now is the time to prep them and get them ready.**
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel.
Rub it down with olive oil.
Sprinkle the smoked sea salt and black pepper over the tenderloin, rubbing the seasonings in.
Sear the meat in a large skillet (preferably a skillet you can also bake it in), being sure to turn the tenderloin halfway thru searing, so that both sides slightly brown.
Place the parboiled potatoes and veggies in the skillet with the tenderloin, sprinkling olive oil, salt, and black pepper over the veggies.
Bake everything at 400°F for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches the recommended internal temperature of 145 to 160°F with a meat thermometer.***
Optional step: In the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle parsley over the entire skillet.
Once the pork tenderloin is fully cooked, remove it from the oven.
Slice the tenderloin and serve with the potatoes and veggies.
*This recipe is based on the size of about a 2 pound pork tenderloin.
**Wash, chop, and parboil potatoes and veggies, so they’re ready to go.
***How long to cook pork tenderloin really depends on a number of factors, including both your oven and the size of your tenderloin.
Pork Recipes
American
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