These classic Empire Cookies are a holiday favorite. Buttery shortbread rounds are sandwiched with sweet raspberry jam, topped with a smooth powdered-sugar glaze, and finished with a slice of red or green candied cherry. They’re ideal for Christmas baking, cookie exchanges, and festive cookie platters. Raspberry Jam Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Glaze (Empire Cookies) If … Read more
This banana watermelon smoothie is a refreshing summer treat—perfect for a quick breakfast or an on-the-go snack. It’s satisfyingly creamy thanks to Greek yogurt and a splash of milk, and you can make it in about five minutes with just five simple ingredients. If you want a smoothie that’s both light and filling, this banana … Read more
These chocolate oatmeal muffins are my go-to way to enjoy chocolate at breakfast. Moist, tender, and deeply chocolatey, they’re made with old-fashioned oats, plain yogurt, coconut oil, and maple syrup for a lighter, satisfying muffin that still feels indulgent. Simple enough for a weekday morning and lovely to share with friends, these muffins are quick … Read more
Coming up with conversation starters to engage Brady after school isn’t always easy. Like many preschoolers, he often responds with a blank stare when I ask, “What did you do today?” He does so much during the day that narrowing it down to one thing can feel impossible for him. Over time my questions have … Read more
Sriracha Ranch Grilled Chicken — just 3 ingredients including the chicken. The marinade blends bottled ranch dressing with Sriracha for bold, balanced flavor that isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. Adjust the heat to suit your taste. A quick, flavorful grilled chicken recipe everyone will enjoy. Remember this recipe. Pin this recipe to your favorite board now to … Read more
Happy Valentine’s Day! These red velvet sandwich cookies are a delightful treat—soft, chocolatey cookies sandwiched around a fluffy cream cheese frosting. I like to pipe the filling using a Wilton 1M tip for pretty swirls, but you can simply spread the frosting with a knife if you prefer a quicker approach.
As you may remember, I finally made the trip to North Carolina last summer to visit my cousin Ashley and her fiancé Evan. I came home missing them more than ever — it’s strange how seeing someone after a few years can make you miss them even more — and I also came home craving … Read more
Instant Pot Spaghetti with meat sauce, all in one pot. Use ground beef or turkey, your favorite marinara sauce and dinner is on the table in 30 minutes. I’ve been enjoying pressure cooking lately, and this Instant Pot spaghetti has quickly become a reliable weeknight dinner. Everything cooks in one pot, it’s fast, and the … Read more
Jam Thumbprint Cookies are buttery shortbread cookies with a spoonful of jam nestled in the center. While they’re a classic on holiday cookie trays, these cookies are simple enough to enjoy year-round. This recipe yields thick, tender cookies that hold plenty of jam and are delightfully easy to make. The dough is mildly sweet, which … Read more
Too many birthday invites and not enough cash? Here’s how I handled the preschool-party years without blowing the budget. Affordable but thoughtful gift ideas plus homemade options. There was a period when it felt like every weekend had a kid’s party. One Saturday we even had three. Beyond the calendar juggling, deciding on gifts became … Read more