Double Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

 Double the Chocolate, Double the Delight: Easy Homemade Chocolate Chip Bars

Hey fellow dessert lovers! Are you craving something rich, chocolatey, and utterly irresistible? Look no further! Today, I'm sharing my go-to recipe for easy homemade double chocolate chip bars that are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe is great because it doesn't use any butter, making it budget-friendly!

These bars are the perfect combination of a fudgy, chocolatey base and an abundance of melty chocolate chips. They're quick to whip up, require minimal ingredients, and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're baking for a cozy night in, a potluck, or just because, these bars are a must-try.

Why You'll Love These Double Chocolate Chip Bars:

• Easy and Quick: No fuss, no complicated steps. You can have these bars ready in no time.
• Double Chocolate Goodness: A chocolate cookie base packed with even more chocolate chips. What's not to love?
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual snacking to special gatherings, these bars fit right in.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

Let's Get Baking!

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about a few tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly:

• Don't Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the taste!
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for clean, even cuts.

Recipe: Easy Homemade Double Chocolate Chip Bars

Double Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Bake Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 16

Ingredients:

½ c shortening

⅓ c granulated sugar

½ c light brown sugar, packed

1 egg

½ tsp vanilla

¼ c cocoa powder

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp baking powder

1 ⅓ c flour

1 c chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Line an 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper.

In a medium mixing bowl combine shortening, granulated sugar and brown sugar and mix until light and fluffy.

Add egg and vanilla and mix until combined.

Add cocoa powder, flour, baking soda and baking powder and mix until combined.

Add chocolate chips and stir.

Transfer the dough to your prepared baking dish.

Bake for 22-25 minutes, the top should be set, but you want the interior to be a little gooey.

Allow to cool completely before cutting.

After the cookie bars have cooled, lift the parchment paper from the dish and cut 4 times across, and 4 times the opposite way, to make 16 fudgy cookie bars.

Variations and Add-ins:

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a nutty crunch.
• Different Chocolate Chips: Try using white chocolate, peanut butter, or even dark chocolate chips for a unique twist.
• Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Espresso Powder: A teaspoon of espresso powder added to the batter deepens the chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

These double chocolate chip bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your dessert experience:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Enjoy with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.

Final Thoughts:

These easy homemade double chocolate chip bars are a guaranteed hit! They're simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in some serious chocolatey goodness.

Don't forget to share your baking adventures with me! Tag me in your photos on social media and let me know how your bars turned out. Happy baking!

Find more tasty treat recipes here:

Homemade Rice Pudding

Instant Pot Banana Rice Pudding

Nilla Wafer Bark

Why hobbies are so important for your wellbeing

 

Photo by Steve Johnson: https://www.pexels.com/photo/selective-focus-photography-of-paintbrush-near-paint-pallet-1047540/ 

Have you ever wondered why people often say that hobbies are great for your overall wellbeing? Yes, they are a lot of fun, but a hobby is a lot deeper than the enjoyment you get out of it. At their core, hobbies provide a sense of purpose and structure that can be incredibly grounding, especially during times of stress or uncertainty (if you are struggling with addiction, a hobby can help you turn things around). When you dedicate time to something you enjoy - whether it’s painting, gardening, playing music, or even restoring old cars - you’re not just passing time; you’re engaging in an act of self-care.

No matter your hobby, you get so many benefits out of doing it. To give you an insight, we have put together a brief guide on why hobbies are so important for your wellbeing. Keep on reading to learn more. 

Meet like-minded people 

One of the best things about a hobby is that you get to meet like-minded people. When growing up, it gets harder and harder to make friends, but a hobby gives you a way to do just that. When going to a club, you get to socialise with people who enjoy the same things as you. This instantly gives you something in common, which makes it easier to talk and build a friendship which can last for years. Even if your hobby doesn’t involve you meeting people physically, like online gaming, you can still make friends with people. 

Stree relief 

Life is stressful. Work can be stressful, your family life can be stressful or spending time with your friends can be stressful. A hobby gives you a moment to forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy yourself. They give you a mental break from work and responsibilities, such as when you have children, but want a break away from them for a few hours. There is nothing wrong with wanting a break, and arguably, having a break can make you a better parent. Just ask other parents and they will agree!

A sense of accomplishment

When you practice a hobby regularly, you naturally set goals - finishing a book, learning a song, mastering a recipe, or hitting a fitness milestone. Achieving these goals, no matter how small, gives you a sense of accomplishment. Unlike work or chores, hobbies offer intrinsic motivation - you're doing it simply because you love it. This sense of purpose can boost your confidence, self-esteem, and motivation in other areas of life.

You’ll never regret enjoying doing your hobby. This is why it’s important you have one and dedicate some time to it, no matter what the hobby is. What hobbies do you enjoy doing, and how many times a week do you try to do your hobby? What benefits do you get out of doing your hobby? Is there anything missing from our guide that you think we should be adding? Let us know in the comment box below. We look forward to hearing from you.

Pumpkin Streusel Cookies

 Pumpkin Streusel Cookies: A Cozy Fall Delight

When fall arrives, it brings with it the irresistible flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and warm spices. If you love pumpkin treats but want something a little different, pumpkin streusel cookies are the perfect solution. These cake-like cookies have a soft, tender crumb and are topped with a buttery streusel that adds a delicious crunch—making them a must-have for the season.

The Comfort of Pumpkin Treats

Pumpkin is the star of autumn baking, providing a naturally sweet and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Not only does pumpkin add great taste, but it also brings moisture to baked goods, ensuring a soft and tender texture in every bite.

The Magic of Streusel Topping

The addition of a streusel topping takes these cookies to the next level. A simple mix of butter, sugar, and flour creates a crumbly, slightly crisp layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cake-like base. The result? A delightful combination of textures that makes these cookies extra special.

Let's get to the recipe!

Ingredients

Glaze

1 c brown sugar

2-4 tbsp milk

1 tsp vanilla

Topping:

6 tbsp melted butter

¾ c brown sugar sugar

¾ c flour

2 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

Cookies

1 ¾ c flour

1 c sugar

6 tbsp softened butter

1 egg

½ c pumpkin puree

1-2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp baking powder

A pinch of salt

Make the topping by combining all of the ingredients and mixing together.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper

In a stand mixer, add the butter, sugar and pumpkin pie spice, baking soda and powder. 

Blend on low/medium  until combined. The mixture should look crumbly.

Add the egg and mix until smooth.

Before adding the pumpkin to the mix, you should pat it dry on a paper towel. Pumpkin puree holds a lot of liquid; skipping this step will lead to a runny dough. Simply place the puree on a paper towel and fold it over the top. Let it rest for a few moments, and scrape the puree off of the paper towel into the mixing bowl.

Blend the pumpkin into the batter by mixing on medium for 1 minute.

Add the flour and pinch of salt.

If you are a serious pumpkin spice fan, like I am, you might want to add a little more pumpkin pie spice to the batter at this time. 

Mix until well blended.

Place the dough in the fridge to allow it to rest for  10 minutes.

Scoop the dough with a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop if you want huge cookies.

Place the cookies on a cookie sheet 3” apart.

After placing the cookies on a baking sheet, use a spoon to make a little indentation on the top, then sprinkle the topping directly in that place.

Bake for 12-14 minutes for a 2 tablespoon cookie scoop or 18-22 for an ice cream scoop sized cookie.

Allow to cool for 30 minutes.

Mix the glaze by adding 2 tablespoons of milk, vanilla and brown sugar to a bowl and whisking it until it is smooth. If the glaze feels too thick to drizzle you can add the additional milk, a splash at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Pumpkin streusel cookies are great for sharing at fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a chilly morning. They bring the cozy flavors of autumn to any occasion and are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

So, if you're looking for a seasonal treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, these pumpkin streusel cookies are the way to go. Bake up a batch and savor the flavors of fall with every bite!

Find more favorite fall recipes here:

Rustic Recipes for Fall

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Tasty Homemade Donuts

Hocus Pocus Snack Ideas

Foolproof Biscuits

Cowboy Beans

Last weekend we had plans to go to Lake Erie, which is pretty close to our house. In under an hour we can be there, ready for some water fun. Adam wanted to fish from the bridge access, and the kids are always up for a swim. I knew I would be busy packing the towels, floats, changes of clothes, and snacks for the next day, and I certainly wouldn't want to come home and cook after a hot day on the beach. So, I pulled out my slow cooker and made a big batch of cowboy beans. We happily reheated them, and had hearty meals for 4 days. We could have stretched it to 5 days with the addition of potatoes or smoked sausage, but we were pretty full of beans at that point.

Cowboy beans are awesome. They make enough to feed a crowd, so they are perfect for potlucks or family meals. They reheat like a dream, and they are budget-friendly.

Ingredients

2 28 oz cans of baked beans

1 15 oz can of pinto beans

1 15 oz can of great northern or navy beans

1 can of kidney beans

1 can of black beans

1 can of pork n beans

1 1/2 pounds of bacon

1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef

1 cup of ketchup

a few dashes of steak sauce or bbq sauce

1/4 brown sugar

1 large onion, diced

2 tablespoons of mustard

Directions: 

Brown the ground beef, drain.

Fry the bacon until crispy and drain.

Open and drain your canned beans (not the pork n beans or baked beans!)

Chop the bacon into small chunks.

Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and stir.

Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Why we love this recipe: 

It is protein packed, easy, and pairs well with corn bread, potatoes, hot dogs, smoked sausages, and more! 

It has plenty of smoky bacon flavor in each bite.

It can feed a hungry crowd AND it is budget friendly!

I always have plenty of canned and dry beans in my pantry to whip this up, even when I am low on ingredients for other dishes.

Find more crock pot recipes here: 

Chicken and Dumplings

Slow cooker dinner rolls

Shredded chicken tacos

 

Homemade Corn Broth: A Sweet Way to Stretch Every Kernel

 

After I finish prepping and freezing about 15 dozen ears of Ohio’s organic bi-color Montauk corn each summer, I’m left with a big pile of empty cobs. Instead of tossing them, I turn them into something golden, flavorful, and totally comforting—corn broth.

This recipe is simple, frugal, and gives your soups, chowders, and risottos an extra boost of sunshine flavor—even in the dead of winter. If you’ve never made vegetable stock from corn cobs before, prepare to be amazed!

 Ingredients

• 6–10 corn cobs (kernels removed)

• 1 onion, roughly chopped

• 2–3 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1–2 carrots, roughly chopped

• 1–2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

• 1–2 sprigs of fresh thyme or a pinch of dried

• 1 bay leaf

• 8–10 cups cold water

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional add-ins:

• A few parsley stems

• Corn silk (clean and fresh, not brown)

• A dash of turmeric for golden color

Instructions

1. Prep the Cobs: After you’ve cut the kernels off your fresh corn, snap the cobs in half if they’re too long to fit in your pot.

2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional): In a large stock pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. This adds depth to the broth but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

3. Simmer: Add corn cobs, herbs, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes. The liquid should take on a pale yellow hue and a sweet, corn-like aroma.

4. Strain: Remove cobs and vegetables using a slotted spoon, then strain broth through a fine mesh sieve.

5. Cool and Store: Let cool, then portion into jars or freezer-safe containers. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

How to Use Corn Broth

• Corn chowder or potato soup

• Polenta or grits with extra sweetness

• Rice, quinoa, or pasta cooking liquid

• Creamy vegetable sauces

• As a base for vegetarian ramen or pho

Waste Not, Want Not

Corn broth is a cozy way to savor every bit of your summer harvest. You get all the sweetness from those Montauk cobs and none of it goes to waste. It’s a small act of kitchen magic that turns scraps into something nourishing and wonderful.

Find more favorite corn recipes here: 

Water Play 101: Keeping Babies Safe and Happy During Summer Fun

 

There’s something magical about water and summer that makes babies light up with joy. The splashes, the giggles, the sunshine—it’s the perfect recipe for unforgettable memories.

But hold up—before you grab that baby-sized floatie and head out to the pool or beach, there’s something you need to know.

Water play can be a blast… but only if it’s done right.

Babies are more sensitive than we often realize, and a carefree afternoon can quickly take a turn without the right precautions.

The good news? A little knowledge goes a long way. In this guide, we’re diving into all things water play—how to keep your baby safe, comfortable, and most importantly, happy all summer long.

 

1. Pick the Right Spot for Water Play

Not all water spots are created equal when it comes to babies. Opt for calm, shallow areas where you can easily sit with your baby and keep a close eye on them. Think splash pads, shaded baby pools, or even a large tub set up in your backyard.

If you’re headed to a beach or lake, be cautious of waves, currents, and slippery rocks. Keep it simple and safe. The goal here isn’t deep water fun—it’s secure, splashy moments that keep your little one giggling.  Choose environments where you can control the temperature, the crowd, and the conditions. Trust your gut—if it doesn’t feel baby-friendly, it probably isn’t.

 

2. Never Skimp on Sun Protection

Babies under six months shouldn’t be in direct sunlight for extended periods. And even older babies need serious sun protection. Water reflects UV rays, so even shady spots aren’t foolproof. Use a baby-safe mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide is your friend), apply it 15 minutes before heading out, and reapply often.

Don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, tops of feet, and under the chin. Wide-brimmed hats, rash guards, and umbrellas also go a long way. Remember, a little planning up front beats dealing with the aftermath of a baby sunburn—no one wants that.

 

3. Choose Swimwear That Works (and Protects)

Your baby’s swimsuit does more than look cute—it plays a key role in sun protection, comfort, and freedom of movement. Look for options with UPF 50+ fabric that shields delicate skin from harmful UV rays. For little boys, baby boy swimwear should include a rash guard top for extra coverage, especially on the shoulders and arms, where sun exposure is strongest.

Think: soft fabrics, no scratchy tags, and easy snaps for diaper changes. A well-designed rash guard not only helps prevent sunburns but also minimizes skin irritation from salt, chlorine, or sand, so your baby stays happy, protected, and ready to splash.

 

4. Keep a Hand on Your Baby at All Times

This one’s non-negotiable. No floaties, loungers, or shallow water setups replace the need for constant supervision. Babies can slip or tip over in an instant, and it doesn’t take much water to create a hazard. Always stay within arm’s reach, ideally holding or sitting next to your little one during play.

It’s not about hovering—it’s about being present and ready. Let them explore, splash, and experiment with the water, but stay fully tuned in. Your attention is the best safety gear they’ve got.

 

5. Pack the Right Gear (And Keep It Simple)

When it comes to baby water play, a well-packed bag can make or break your day. Bring extra swim diapers, wipes, a soft towel, a change of clothes, snacks, and plenty of water for you and your baby. Don’t forget baby-friendly toys—simple cups, rubber ducks, and floating rings work wonders.

Keep gear organized in a water-resistant tote so you’re not scrambling mid-splash. Leave the complicated gear at home. Babies don’t need a lot—they need comfort, familiarity, and the freedom to enjoy their watery surroundings without distraction.

 

6. Mind the Water Temperature

Babies are sensitive to changes in temperature, and water that feels “refreshing” to you might be too chilly for them. Aim for water that’s lukewarm—between 85°F and 90°F is ideal. Test it on the inside of your wrist before placing your baby in it. Shivering or purple lips? Time to get out.

Keep playtime short—10 to 15 minutes at a time is plenty for younger babies. Dry your baby off quickly afterward, change them into dry clothes, and offer some cuddles. Comfort comes first, always.

 

Conclusion

Ready to make a splash with confidence? Because when you’re prepared, summer days with your baby don’t just feel fun—they feel effortless. By keeping a close eye, choosing the right gear, and staying aware of the signs of discomfort or danger, you’re setting the stage for carefree moments that both you and your baby will cherish. So go ahead—make the most of those sunny days and splashy adventures. You’ve got this.

 

 

Lovely Lobster Recipes for Summer

Herein lies a curated collection dedicated to the exquisite versatility of lobster. From time-honored classics to innovative culinary explorations, these pages offer a wealth of inspiration for transforming this celebrated crustacean into memorable meals. Prepare to delve into a world of rich flavors and elegant presentations, all centered around the unparalleled taste of the sea. 

Lobster Rolls by This Silly Girl's Kitchen

Get the iconic flavor of lobster rolls from New England in your own home kitchen. This recipe is so easy to recreate with chunks of lobster, plenty of butter and the tastiest blend of garlic, onion and mayo. Serve these with chips, fries or pickle spears on the side for a meal that sends your taste buds off to New England.

Lobster Salad by Bake It With Love

Combine crunchy celery, tender chunks of lobster and creamy dressing to make this amazing salad. It is the definition of delicious, and is sure to be loved by anyone who tries it. Lobster salad offers an elegant taste, but is so fuss free you can make it in minutes. Serve over lettuce leaves for the freshest flavor.

Air Fryer Lobster Tails by Cheerful Cook

Did you know that you can make lobster tails in your air fryer? This recipe is so easy to make at home, even on a busy night for a meal that delivers restaurant quality flavor without any of the fuss. I know you will want to make this for someone special. Don’t forget to offer plenty of melted butter on the side.

Lobster Bisque by Masala Herb

You can make the best lobster bisque from scratch! This recipe uses a thick tomato base with a tasty blend of herbs. Add chunks of lobster in for soul food in a bowl that sticks to your ribs and satisfies your cravings for great homemade food.

Butter Poached Lobster by Britney Breaks Bread

This butter poached lobster recipe makes such a wonderful meal. Serve tasty butter poached tails over a bed of pasta with creamy white wine sauce, and watch yourself fall in love from the first bite. This rivals any restaurant meal in quality, taste and presentation.

Lobster Yee Mein by Oh My Food Recipes

Skip take out and make this mouth watering lobster yee mein instead. It has tender noodles, succulent deep fried bites of lobster and garlic, ginger and green onions for a medley of flavors. You will love how quick this comes together and how delicious these simple ingredients are together.

Connecticut Style Lobster Rolls by Sweet Tea and Thyme

This lobster roll skips the mayo and dresses tender chunks of lobster in butter. You will love the flavor of this simple old school sandwich. Pair with pickles, fries, or some chips for a flavorful and filling seafood meal.

Creamed Lobster by Kelly Neil

Yarmouth style creamed lobster makes the best open faced sandwiches! You are going to love the simplicity of this recipe, and the amazing flavor. Cream, butter and vinegar bring out the best flavor in lobster. Make this for a treat for the taste buds from Nova Scotia to your home kitchen.

Maine Lobster Stew by Fearless Eating

This milky, creamy stew is such a treat. It offers wholesome flavor in comfort food form. You will want to make this on a chilly fall day for stick to your ribs, filling food.

Lobster Oreganata by The Top Meal

This Italian style lobster dish is so delicious. It uses bread crumbs, parmesan cheese and white wine to bake a dish fit for any Italian celebration. You won’t believe how easy this dish is to prepare, but you will be blown away by how it tastes!

Lobster Cobb Salad by Cupcakes and Kale Chips

Everyone loves cobb salad for a light yet satisfying lunch. This recipe elevates the flavor to a whole new height, by adding tender, buttery chunks of lobster. Make this any time you need a special lunch to share.

Lobster Stuffed Crab Imperial by Ask Chef Dennis

Lobster stuffed crab imperial makes for an unforgettable meal. This recipe comes from a chef, so it is restaurant quality, but you can grab the ingredients to make it super affordably for a celebration or special date night, at home.

Lobster Benedict by Chocolates and Chai

Eggs benedict is always a treat for breakfast or brunch but this recipe uses lobster to really elevate the flavor. You will want to make this for brunch with bottomless mimosas for an elegant homemade meal.

Baked Lobster Tails by Sweet and Savory by Shinee

This might be the best baked lobster tail recipe ever. It is so easy to follow and produces gorgeous, succulent results every time. Serve with a salad and a baked potato for a filling and delicious dinner at home.

Lobster Baked Mac and Cheese by Grand Baby Cakes

Mac and cheese is always a delicious addition to a meal. This recipe makes it the main course, and adds plenty of melty cheese, tender noodles and tasty lobster chunks. You won’t be able to stop thinking about this incredible comfort food meal after you make it yourself.

Find more favorite recipes here:

Cheese Stick Crab Cakes

Copycat Chicken Recipes

Foolproof Biscuits

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies