Author Archives: Laura Youngquist
November 10, 2024
Hostess Cakes Sheet Cake
If you’ve ever craved a sweet, nostalgic treat that combines the best of chocolate cake and marshmallow fluff, this Hostess Cakes Sheet Cake is for you! Inspired by the beloved Hostess snack cakes, this homemade version delivers the same indulgent flavors but with an extra touch of love and freshness. Start with a rich chocolate cake that’s both moist and tender, thanks to a perfect blend of sugar, butter, and a hint of instant coffee to deepen the flavor. As the cake bakes, you’ll prepare a fluffy, marshmallow filling that’s reminiscent of the classic Hostess filling but made from scratch with marshmallow fluff and a buttery creaminess. Finally, top it all off with a decadent chocolate frosting that’s smooth and silky, with just the right amount of cocoa to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood snacks or just looking for a show-stopping dessert, this Hostess Cakes Sheet … Continue reading
November 5, 2024
Homemade Spaghetti-O’s
Craving a comforting bowl of childhood nostalgia? These Homemade Spaghetti-O’s are the perfect way to recreate that classic taste with a fresh, flavorful twist. Made with simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, and a hint of red pepper flakes, this recipe brings a rich, savory sauce to life. Apple cider vinegar adds a touch of tang, while bouillon cubes and water build a deep base of flavor. Large ring noodles soak up the goodness, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese gives it that cheesy finish you’ll love. It’s an easy, homemade version of a timeless favorite! The recipe can be found here. Start by heating oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes, tomato paste, onion powder, and pepper, and stir to combine. Continue to cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Add the apple cider … Continue reading
November 4, 2024
Savoring Autumn: Pumpkin Delights
As the cool breeze of fall sets in, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin. From savory dishes to sweet treats, pumpkin brings warmth and depth to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or an indulgent dessert, these recipes have you covered. Start with a flavorful Orzo with Chicken Sausage & Pumpkin Sauce, blending the earthiness of pumpkin with savory sausage for a cozy meal. Then, indulge in the creamy richness of a Pumpkin Chicken & Bacon Casserole, a dish that’s equal parts comforting and flavorful. If you’re craving something sweet, treat yourself to a delicate, velvety Pumpkin Crème Brûlée or whip up a nostalgic No Bake Marshmallow Pumpkin Pie for a dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious. Pumpkin season never tasted so good! The recipes can be found here: Orzo with Chicken Sausage & Pumpkin … Continue reading
October 31, 2024
Instant Pot Bò Kho (aka Vietnamese Beef Stew)
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Vietnam with this hearty and aromatic Instant Pot Bò Kho recipe! This beloved Vietnamese beef stew is a symphony of rich, savory flavors, featuring tender chunks of boneless beef chuck, sweet carrots, and a medley of fragrant spices. We’re bringing the magic of this traditional dish right to your kitchen with the help of the Instant Pot, which promises to cut down on cooking time while still delivering that deep, comforting flavor. Each spoonful of this stew is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, perfectly complemented by the fresh cilantro and lime wedges we’ve added for garnish. Serve your Bò Kho over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside crusty slices of baguette to soak up every last bit of the flavorful broth. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Vietnamese cuisine or trying it … Continue reading
October 26, 2024
Salsa Verde Chicken Bake
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Mexican cuisine with our irresistible Salsa Verde Chicken Bake! This mouthwatering dish combines tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a creamy twist of cream cheese, all bathed in the zesty goodness of salsa verde. Topped with a generous layer of gooey mozzarella cheese, this bake promises a burst of flavor in every bite. With just a handful of simple ingredients, including aromatic garlic powder, fiery red pepper flakes, and fragrant Italian seasoning, this recipe is both effortless and unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, our Salsa Verde Chicken Bake is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into the magic of this savory delight! The recipe can be found here. Start by preheating the oven to 375 degrees F and spray a baking dish with cooking spray. Add the chicken and olive oil to a Ziploc … Continue reading
October 21, 2024
Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with our Chicken Shawarma Bowls, a hearty and satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This recipe brings together tender, spice-marinated chicken breasts with a fragrant blend of paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and a touch of cayenne for a zesty kick. Paired with fluffy basmati rice and a colorful medley of fresh veggies, including crisp cucumbers, crunchy bell peppers, and juicy cherry tomatoes, these bowls are bursting with flavor and texture. Topped with crumbled feta, a zesty lemon dressing, and a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt infused with fresh dill or parsley, they’re a feast for the senses. Serve with a side of hummus for an extra touch of authenticity. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these Chicken Shawarma Bowls are sure to impress. The recipe can be found here. Start by preparing … Continue reading
October 17, 2024
Deliciously Apple: A Celebration of Fall Flavors
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds and golds, it’s the perfect time to embrace the delightful flavors of apples. This blog post is a tribute to the versatility of this beloved fruit, showcasing four irresistible recipes that highlight its sweet and tangy essence. First up is a nostalgic Snickers Salad, a crowd-pleaser that marries crunchy apples with creamy whipped topping and the irresistible sweetness of Snickers bars, making it a perfect side dish or dessert for any gathering. Next, we’ll dive into the cozy warmth of Apple Spice Cake, a spiced delight that brings the comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg together, perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful breakfast treat, our Apple Scones with Maple Glaze will have your taste buds dancing. These buttery, flaky scones are packed with tender apple pieces and drizzled with a … Continue reading
As the moon rises and the shadows deepen, it’s time to unleash your inner ghoul with a Halloween gathering that will delight your guests and send chills down their spines! This year, we’re conjuring up a frightfully delicious spread that includes creepy cocktails and eerie eats that are sure to be the talk of the afterlife. Sip on a chilling Zombitini, a green-hued concoction that’s equal parts refreshing and spine-tingling or quench your thirst with the gruesomely delightful Halloween Blood Bag, served in playful IV bags for that extra scare factor. For those with a sweet tooth, our Spider Peanut Butter Blossoms will wrap you in a web of flavor, while the Halloween Bruschetta offers a savory bite that’s perfect for any haunt. And let’s not forget the showstopper—Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Skulls that bring a little heat and a lot of fun to your festive feast. Join us as we … Continue reading
October 11, 2024
Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Get ready to elevate your game day or backyard barbecue with a flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite! Our Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip combines tender rotisserie chicken, zesty Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Wing Sauce, and creamy cheeses, all kissed with hickory smoke for that irresistible smoky flavor. Whether you’re dipping into it with crunchy tortilla chips or spreading it over a sliced baguette, this dip is sure to be the MVP of your next gathering. Let’s fire up the smoker and dive into this delicious recipe! The recipe can be found here. Start by preheating your smoker to 250 degrees F with hickory woodchips. Layer the ingredients in a 9×13 aluminum foil pan with the chicken on the bottom, then the buffalo sauce, then the ranch, then the cubed cream cheese, and finish with the 2 cups of shredded cheese. Place the pan in the smoker and smoke for 1 … Continue reading
Recent Comments