Apple Crisp Cookie Bars

Apple Crisp Bars: A Perfect Fall Treat

When autumn arrives, there's nothing quite as comforting as the flavors of warm apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crumble topping. These apple crisp bars take all the best parts of classic apple crisp and transform them into a portable, sliceable dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're packing them for lunch, serving them at a gathering, or enjoying one with a cup of coffee, these bars are sure to be a seasonal favorite.

Why Apple Crisp Bars?

Apple crisp is a beloved fall dessert, but sometimes you need a version that’s easier to serve and transport. That’s where apple crisp bars come in. With a sturdy yet tender crust, a layer of spiced apples, and a golden streusel topping, these bars offer the same delicious flavors in a convenient handheld form.

The Perfect Combination of Texture and Flavor

The secret to great apple crisp bars lies in the balance of textures. The buttery crust provides a firm base, the apples become tender and flavorful as they bake, and the crumbly topping adds the perfect touch of crunch. With just the right amount of sweetness and spice, each bite is packed with cozy fall flavor.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Apple crisp bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy them at room temperature as an afternoon snack. They also make great treats for bake sales, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.

If you're looking for a way to enjoy the comforting taste of apple crisp in an easy-to-make, easy-to-serve format, these apple crisp bars are the perfect solution. Bake up a batch and savor the delicious flavors of fall!

 Apple Crisp Bars

Serves 16

Crust:

½ c salted soft butter, room temperature

¼ c brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla

1 ¼c flour

Filling:

2 large apples, peeled and sliced thin (about 3 cups)

2 tbsp flour

¼ sugar

1 tbsp cinnamon

Crisp Topping:

½ c brown sugar

¼ c granulated sugar

⅓ c flour

1 tsp cinnamon 

 ½ c old fashioned oats

1 stick of butter, room temperature

Directions:

Prepare an 8x8 pan by lining it with parchment paper or a silicon baking mat.

Preheat oven to 350.

Crust:

Beat butter and brown sugar together for 3 minutes.

Add vanilla and flour and mix well.

Press the crust into the prepared pan.

Filling:

Slice and peel apples.

Add flour, ¼ of granulated sugar and cinnamon and toss until the apple slices are coated.

Spread this evenly over the prepared crust.

Crisp topping:

Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon and butter together until crumbly. 

Press over the top of the apple layer.

Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is bubbly.

Allow to cool.

Cut into 16 squares.

Find more great recipes here:

Instant pot peanut butter chicken and noodles

Instant pot loaded potato soup

Peanut butter chocolate cake mix cookies

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

Rediscovering Simple Pleasures in the Kitchen

 In a world that often rushes us from one task to the next, there’s something incredibly grounding about slowing down and returning to the kitchen—not for gourmet meals or trendy recipes, but for the simple, familiar foods that feel like home.

Tomato soup and grilled cheese. Creamy mac and cheese. Scrambled eggs with toast. Hearty casseroles that fill the whole house with the smell of comfort. These aren’t just meals—they’re memories, lifelines, and little moments of peace in the chaos.

Maybe you grew up with your mom stirring a pot of tomato soup while the grilled cheese sizzled in butter on the stove. Or maybe your “after a long day” comfort meal is a big bowl of mac and cheese shared around the table with your kids. These dishes remind us that food doesn’t have to be fancy to be good—it just has to be made with heart.

If you’ve found yourself longing for that cozy, soul-satisfying kind of cooking again, here are some simple ways to bring those classics back to life—and make them even better:

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🍅 Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese

• Upgrade your soup by sautéing garlic and onion before adding canned tomatoes. Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness.

• Boost the flavor with a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of fresh basil.

• Level up your grilled cheese by using sourdough or rustic bread and mixing cheeses—try sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. Butter the outside and add a little mayo for the perfect crispy golden crust.

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🧀 Mac and Cheese

• Start with a roux (butter + flour) and build a creamy cheese sauce using whole milk and a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gruyere.

• Add-ins like sautéed onions, garlic, or even a spoonful of Dijon mustard bring out depth.

• Toss in extras like broccoli, bacon, or peas to stretch it into a full meal.

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🍳 Scrambled Eggs

• Low and slow is the secret to soft, creamy scrambled eggs. Cook over low heat and stir constantly.

• Add a splash of milk or cream for richness, or a tiny pat of cream cheese while cooking for extra silkiness.

• Sprinkle in chopped herbs, cheese, or leftover veggies for variety.

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🥘 Hearty Casseroles

• Use what you have—pasta, rice, leftover chicken or veggies can become the foundation of something delicious.

• Layer flavor with sautéed aromatics like onion and garlic.

• Top it well: breadcrumbs mixed with butter, crushed crackers, or even fried onions add a perfect crunchy finish.

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These aren’t complicated meals—but they feed more than just your stomach. They feed your spirit. They bring comfort, nostalgia, and joy. So go ahead—pull out your favorite pot, toast the bread, stir the cheese, and remember that the simple things really are the best things.

Because sometimes, the most ordinary meals become the most extraordinary memories.

Find more favorite recipes here:

Hearty Family Breakfast Recipes

Chicken Bacon Gruyere Turnovers

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: 

Favorite Instant Pot Recipes

 Life's busy, and sometimes the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's where the Instant Pot comes in! This magical appliance has revolutionized cooking for busy individuals and families alike. If you're looking for quick, easy, and delicious meals, you've come to the right place. I've gathered my favorite easy Instant Pot recipes that will have you enjoying flavorful dinners without the fuss.

Why do I love my Instant Pot? Let me count the ways! It's a time-saver, a flavor enhancer, and a one-pot wonder. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, the Instant Pot makes cooking accessible and enjoyable. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Speed: Say goodbye to long cooking times. The Instant Pot cooks meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
• Convenience: One-pot meals mean less cleanup and more time for what matters.
• Flavor: Pressure cooking locks in flavors and nutrients, resulting in incredibly delicious meals.
• Versatility: From soups and stews to rice and desserts, the Instant Pot can do it all.

Now, let's get to the good stuff! I've curated a collection of my favorite easy Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, and everything in between. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these simple yet satisfying dishes.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Banana Rice Pudding

Garlic Butter Glazed Carrots

Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta

Pork Tacos

Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles

Banana Rice Pudding

Pumpkin No Bake Cookies

No bake pumpkin pudding no bakes are a fun and flavorful way to put a fall spin on a classic afterschool snack!

Pumpkin Pudding No-Bake Cookies: A Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing better than indulging in seasonal pumpkin treats. From lattes to pies, pumpkin flavors dominate fall baking, but sometimes, we want a quicker, easier option that doesn’t require turning on the oven. Enter pumpkin pudding no-bake cookies! These delightful little treats capture the cozy flavors of autumn with minimal effort.

The Magic of No-Bake Cookies

No-bake cookies have been a staple in home kitchens for decades. Originating as an easy, budget-friendly dessert, these cookies gained popularity during the mid-20th century when quick oats and instant pudding became household staples. Unlike traditional cookies, no-bake versions rely on a combination of stovetop cooking and refrigeration to set, making them perfect for busy days or when you just don’t feel like baking.

Why Pumpkin?

Pumpkin is synonymous with fall, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. The addition of pumpkin pudding in no-bake cookies enhances their creamy texture while infusing them with that beloved seasonal taste. Combined with ingredients like oats, spices, and a touch of sweetness, these cookies deliver the essence of autumn in every bite.

Pumpkin pudding no bake cookies

Makes 3 dozen

Ingredients:

½ cup of butter

2 cups of sugar

⅔ cup of milk

1 tsp vanilla

4 ½ c of quick cook oats

1 box of instant pumpkin pudding (3 ounce box)

A pinch of salt

Directions:

Line your countertop with foil or parchment paper.

In a medium saucepan combine butter, sugar and milk.

Bring to a rapid boil, over medium high heat.

As the mixture begins to bubble and boil, begin stirring continuously.

As the mixture comes to a rapid boil that you cannot stir away, set a timer for 1 minute.

Allow to boil for one minute.

Remove from heat.

Add vanilla, oats and instant pumpkin pudding.

Stir to combine.

Drop by the spoonful onto the lined work area.

 

Allow the cookies to dry for 90 minutes before removing.

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering, packing a lunchbox treat, or just craving something sweet, pumpkin pudding no-bake cookies fit the bill. They’re simple, quick, and require just a handful of ingredients. Plus, they store well in the fridge, making them a great make-ahead option for the season.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a fall-inspired dessert but don’t want to spend hours baking, whip up a batch of these pumpkin pudding no-bake cookies. They’re a deliciously effortless way to savor the flavors of autumn!

Find more great cookie recipes here: 

Chocolate Espresso Cookies

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Golden Graham Cookies

The Best Macaron Recipes

 Elegant, colorful, and irresistibly delicious, macarons are the crown jewel of French patisserie. These delicate sandwich cookies—crisp on the outside, chewy in the center, and filled with everything from buttercream to ganache—have captured hearts (and taste buds) around the world. But behind their beautiful shells lies a baking process that demands precision, patience, and a little pastry magic.

The origins of the macaron date back to 8th-century Italy, but it was the French—especially the Parisian bakery Ladurée—who refined the version we know and love today. Over the centuries, these once-simple almond meringue cookies have evolved into the vibrant, flavor-packed treats perfect for holidays, tea parties, or just a luxurious afternoon pick-me-up.

If you’ve ever tried baking macarons and ended up with cracked tops, hollow shells, or lopsided cookies, you’re not alone. Don’t let that intimidate you! In this post, I’ve gathered some of my favorite macaron recipes—along with essential tips for macaron success—so you can achieve bakery-worthy results right at home.

Top Tips for Baking Perfect Macarons

1. Weigh Your Ingredients

Use a kitchen scale to measure your almond flour, powdered sugar, and egg whites. Macarons are sensitive to even small deviations, so accuracy is key.

2. Use Aged Egg Whites

Let your egg whites sit in the fridge for 1–3 days before using them. This reduces moisture and helps achieve stiff, stable peaks when whipping.

3. Sift Your Dry Ingredients

Sift almond flour and powdered sugar at least once, ideally twice. This ensures a smooth shell and avoids lumps in your batter.

4. Master the Macaronage

Macaronage is the technique of folding the meringue into the dry ingredients. Fold gently until the batter flows off the spatula like lava—thick but able to settle into itself within 10–15 seconds.

5. Use a Template

Pipe your macarons onto a silicone baking mat or parchment paper with a printed template underneath to ensure even sizes.

6. Rest Before Baking

Once piped, let your macarons sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes (or until the tops are dry to the touch). This creates the essential “feet” when baking.

7. Control Oven Temperature

Every oven is different. Start testing at 300°F (150°C), but use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even heat.

8. Don’t Skip the Tap

After piping, tap the tray on the counter a few times to release air bubbles. Use a toothpick to pop any visible ones to avoid cracked tops.

9. Cool Completely Before Removing

Macaron shells are delicate! Let them cool fully on the tray before removing or they might stick or break.

10. Mature the Macarons

After filling, refrigerate your macarons for 24–48 hours. This aging process allows the flavors to meld and the texture to improve—chewy, soft, and perfect.

On to the recipes!

S’mores Macarons by Broken Oven Baking

Raspberry Jam Filled Macarons  by All We Eat

Blueberry Macarons by Salt and Spoon

Tie Dye Macarons by Homebody Eats

Valentine’s Day Macarons by This Mama Loves

Almond Joy Macarons by Ruffles and Rain Boots

Vegan Macarons by Baked by Chlo

Almond Flour Macarons by Spatula Desserts

Donut Macarons by Meals by Molly

Salted Caramel Macarons by Britney Breaks Bread

Champagne Macarons by Barley and Sage

Keto Macarons by Wholesome Yum

Cookie Butter Macarons by Barley and Sage

Pistachio Macarons by House of Nash Eats

Strawberry Macarons by State of Dinner

Mastering macarons may take a few tries, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly rewarding. Remember: measure by weight, age your egg whites if needed, and always let your piped macarons rest before baking to form that signature skin. A little care and attention go a long way toward perfect shells.

Whether you prefer classic flavors like vanilla and raspberry or something more adventurous like matcha or salted caramel, these recipes offer something for every palate. Happy baking—and don’t forget to share your macaron creations with someone who deserves a sweet treat!

Let me know in the comments which flavor you're trying first or if you’ve discovered your own perfect macaron technique. Bon appétit!

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Golden Graham Cookies

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies

Brown Sugar Sugar Cookies

Cake Mix Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookie Bars

Mint Chocolate Chip S'mores

Find more favorite cookie recipes here: