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Showing posts sorted by date for query recipe. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Secrets to Baking the Best Homemade Cookies

 

Beyond the Bag: Baking Secrets to Heavenly Homemade Cookies

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, homemade cookie. But achieving that perfect balance of crisp edges, chewy centers, and rich flavor can sometimes feel like a mystery. Fear not, fellow bakers! With a few simple tips and tricks, your homemade cookies will be the star of the show.




Master the Ingredients

  • Temperature Matters: Most recipes call for room temperature butter and eggs. This ensures even creaming and prevents a greasy mess.
  • Measure Precisely: A kitchen scale is your best friend for accurate flour measurement. Scooping flour directly from the bag compacts it, leading to dry, dense cookies.
  • High-Quality Ingredients: Use pure vanilla extract, real butter, and fresh ingredients whenever possible. You'll taste the difference!

Mixing Magic

  • Creaming is Key: For those melt-in-your-mouth cookies, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, which leads to a rise and a delightful texture.
  • Don't Overmix the Dough: Once you've added the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in flour, resulting in tough cookies.
  • Chill Out: Many cookie doughs benefit from a rest in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.



Baking Brilliance

  • Sheet Pan Savvy: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Leave space between cookies to allow for spreading.
  • Rotate for Uniformity: For even browning, rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
  • The Golden Rule: Don't overbake! Cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Look for golden brown edges and a slightly soft center.

Bonus Tip: Feeling adventurous? Play with add-ins! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, and even pretzels can take your cookies to the next level.

With these tips in your arsenal, you're well on your way to becoming a homemade cookie champion. So, preheat your oven, grab your favorite recipe, and get ready to bake up a batch of pure deliciousness!


Find my favorite cookie recipes here:

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


From Rentals to Real Fun: How Families Can Create Lasting Memories

 


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Family vacations are special opportunities to create lifelong memories. They bring everyone together, offering a chance to bond, explore, and relax away from daily routines. The best vacations are those that combine comfort, fun, and shared experiences, making every family member feel included. Choosing the right destination plays a big role in how memorable the trip becomes.

Pigeon Forge is an exceptional destination for families looking for a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, it offers something for everyone. From thrilling amusement parks and live entertainment to scenic hikes and charming shops, the city has activities that cater to kids, teens, and adults alike. Its family-friendly attractions and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place to stay and create lasting memories.

This article will help you plan a vacation that’s really fun for the whole family.

Start with the Right Rental: Why It Sets the Tone

Choosing your stay is one of the most important steps in planning a family vacation. A good rental offers the comfort of home while giving you the freedom to explore and unwind. Look for a space that suits your family’s needs, whether it’s a cozy cabin or a modern home with plenty of amenities. Features like a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and outdoor spaces can make your stay much more enjoyable. Having a comfortable base ensures that everyone has a place to relax after a day of activities.

Explore Unique Things to Do

Discover exciting opportunities for family fun. From amusement parks and scenic trails to interactive museums, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills or engaging indoor experiences, this location offers countless ways to make lasting memories together. When you’re on vacation with your family to the Smoky Mountains, spend your time discovering unique things to do in Pigeon Forge, such as exploring the historic Old Mill with its charming shops and delicious Southern food, zorbing at the Outdoor Gravity Park for thrilling fun, and learning about crime history at the interactive Alcatraz East Crime Museum. With so much variety, the whole family will make memories that they’ll cherish for years. 

Plan a Family Game Night

After a day of exploring, a family game night is a fun way to spend quality time together. Bring along board games, card games, or even set up a trivia contest. If your rental has outdoor space, games like cornhole or charades can be great options for everyone to enjoy. These simple activities encourage laughter and bonding, ensuring that even quiet nights become part of your family’s vacation memories.

Cook a Special Meal Together

Cooking a meal together can turn into a fun and rewarding family activity. Use the kitchen in your rental to prepare a favorite dish or try a local recipe. Assign roles to each family member, from chopping vegetables to setting the table. The process of working together to create something delicious adds to the sense of togetherness. Plus, sharing a meal you’ve all helped prepare is a great way to unwind and reflect on the day.

Capture the Memories: Family Photography Tips

Make sure to document your vacation with plenty of photos. Set aside some time to take family pictures, whether it’s at a scenic spot or during a fun activity. You don’t need fancy equipment; even a smartphone can capture great moments. Encourage everyone to take turns snapping photos to get different perspectives. Creating a photo album or sharing pictures with loved ones can keep those memories alive long after the trip is over.

Venture Outdoors: Nature Walks and Adventures

Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect with nature and each other. Look for family-friendly hiking trails, nearby parks, or nature reserves where you can explore together. Activities like scavenger hunts or picnics can make these outings even more enjoyable. Being outside encourages curiosity and conversation while giving everyone a chance to move around and enjoy the fresh air. It’s an easy and memorable way to create shared experiences.

Make It Personal: Journals or Scrapbooking

Encourage each family member to document their favorite moments during the trip. A travel journal or scrapbook is a creative way to capture memories. Kids can draw pictures, write about their adventures, or save small souvenirs like postcards or ticket stubs. Adults can jot down highlights or funny moments from the day. At the end of the vacation, you’ll have a meaningful keepsake that tells the story of your time together.

Try Something New Together

Vacations are the perfect opportunity to try activities you wouldn’t usually do at home. Whether it’s zip-lining, pottery classes, or paddleboarding, stepping out of your comfort zone can create unforgettable moments. Choose an activity that everyone is excited about, and enjoy learning something new as a family. These shared experiences often become the highlights of a trip and give you stories to laugh about for years to come.

Family vacations are about more than just the destination—they’re about the moments you share along the way. With thoughtful planning and a little creativity, families can turn any trip into an unforgettable adventure. So, as you plan your next vacation, prioritize time spent together and explore all the ways you can create lasting memories that your family will cherish forever.


Perfect Peppermint Treats for the Holidays

 

Get Your Chill On: Delicious Peppermint Desserts for Every Occasion

The cool, refreshing flavor of peppermint is a surefire way to satisfy your sweet tooth and awaken your senses. Whether you're looking for a festive holiday treat or a delightful after-dinner surprise, peppermint desserts never disappoint. From classic cookies and creamy cheesecakes to lighter-than-air meringues and decadent chocolate creations, there's a peppermint perfect for every craving. So, grab your favorite mixing bowls and candy canes, because we're about to embark on a delightful journey through the world of peppermint desserts!

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars



Photo Credit: Courtney’s Sweets.

Give your sugar cookie experience a flavorful upgrade. These are easy to make and have the most festive flavor of peppermint in every bite.

Get the recipe: Peppermint sugar cookie bars.


Chocolate Peppermint Bundt Cake



Photo Credit: Kate the Baker.

Give a pepperminty kiss to your next chocolate cake. This delicious and rich cake is perfect for a holiday gathering, or make it for an after dinner sweet treat to share with your family.

Get the recipe: Chocolate peppermint bundt cake.


Peppermint Ice Cream Pie





Photo Credit: What the Fork.

What could be better than a refreshing ice cream pie with plenty of peppermint and chocolate? This is awesome for a Christmas sweet, no matter what the weather is like where you live.

Get the recipe: Peppermint ice cream pie.



Candy Cane Cheesecake



Photo Credit: Homemade Heather.

This no bake cheesecake is creamy, rich and so indulgent. It has the perfect kiss of peppermint in every bite. You will love this blend of flavors and the seasonal appearance this easy dessert brings to the table.

Get the recipe: Candy cane cheesecake.


Christmas Macarons



Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen.

Who could resist  these macarons? They are festive, flavorful and so pretty! You will love these with a cup of cocoa, or coffee as you prepare for your family Christmas gathering.

Get the recipe: Christmas macarons.


Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats



Photo Credit: Three Olives Branch.

This peppermint bark rice krispie recipe is so good! Make these for a cookie exchange or to share with visitors who drop by to spread cheer.

Get the recipe: Peppermint rice krispie treats.



Peppermint Pudding Pie



Photo Credit: Cutefetti.

This peppermint pudding pie is so creamy and rich! You will love how easy it comes together for a fuss free dessert that happens to be dairy free and so indulgent.

Get the recipe: Peppermint pudding pie.


Peppermint Ice Cream



Photo Credit: Sift and Simmer.

Bring a kiss of peppermint to homemade ice cream for a gorgeous holiday treat. This recipe has the loveliest pink color and the creamiest flavor. After you try this, you might bring your ice cream maker out every year for a batch of ice cream to share with family.

Get the recipe: Peppermint ice cream.


Peppermint Meringues



Photo Credit: Cupcakes and Kale Chips.

Make a batch of light and airy meringue cookies and give them a cool kiss of peppermint for the best cookie of the season. These are easier than you would imagine and have a bakery quality flavor.

Get the recipe: Peppermint meringues.



Peppermint Patty Tartlets



Photo Credit: The Cozy Plum.

These yummy little tartlets have the iconic flavor of peppermint and chocolate in every bite. These are the perfect portion for an after dinner treat. Your family will love the ganache topping.

Get the recipe: Peppermint patty tartlets.


Peppermint Snowball Cookies



Photo Credit: Courtney's Sweets.

These yummy and festive cookies practically melt in your mouth. Make them for a cookie exchange, to share with loved ones or to leave for Santa on Christmas Eve!

Get the recipe: Peppermint snowball cookies.


Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies





Photo Credit: Baked Collective.

These easy crinkle cookies have a refreshing minty flavor in every bite. They pair so well with cocoa or coffee, or a simple glass of milk. 

Get the recipe: Peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies.



No Bake Chocolate and Peppermint Cheesecake



Photo Credit: Cooked by Julie.

This no bake cheesecake is so easy, and so pretty. Make this for the holidays, and your family will love the combination of chocolate crust, creamy cheesecake and plenty of crushed peppermints mixed in.

Get the recipe: No bake peppermint cheesecake.


Peppermint Whoopie Pies



Photo Credit: Neighbor Food.

The combination of chocolate cookies with peppermint frosting is a classic one that everyone loves. Why not make them into a sandwich cookie? These are sure to be Santa’s favorites of the  big night!

Get the recipe: Peppermint whoopie pies.


Mint Chocolate Pots de Creme



Photo Credit: Intentionally Eats.

You only need 6 simple ingredients to make these creme pots. They are so decadent, delicious and best of all easy, for an indulgent holiday dessert.

Get the recipe: Mints chocolate pots de creme.


Find more favorite recipes here:

Tasty Homemade Donut Recipes

 

Donut Heaven: A Collection of Delicious Donut Recipes

Ah, donuts. Those fluffy, glazed rings of joy that bring smiles to faces all over the world. But who says you have to rely on store-bought donuts? Making donuts at home is easier than you think, and the results are infinitely more satisfying (and delicious!).

This blog post is your gateway to donut nirvana. We've compiled a collection of donut recipes, from classic glazed to fun and creative flavors, that will have you whipping up batches in no time.



For the Adventurous Donut Enthusiast:

Feeling a little more adventurous? We've got you covered! Try out our recipes for:

  • Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts: These donuts have a denser texture and a tangy flavor that's absolutely delightful.
  • Baked Apple Cider Donuts: A lighter take on the donut, these baked donuts are bursting with fall flavors. Perfect for a cozy afternoon!
  • Chocolate Frosted Donuts: Who can resist a rich chocolate frosting? This recipe takes classic donuts to a whole new level.

Beyond the Doughnut Hole:

Don't forget about the fun part of making donuts - decorating! We have a variety of frosting and glaze recipes to choose from, including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and maple. You can even get creative with sprinkles, chopped nuts, and drizzles.

Pro-Tips for Donut Perfection:

  • Freshness is Key: Donuts are best enjoyed fresh. Make a batch for a weekend brunch or afternoon treat.
  • Oil Temperature Matters: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (around 375°F) to ensure your donuts cook evenly and don't get greasy.
  • Don't Skimp on the Glaze: A good glaze is the crowning glory of a donut. Be generous with your glaze and let those donuts take a good dunk!

So what are you waiting for? Grab your rolling pin, crank up the tunes, and get ready to bake a batch of donut deliciousness. With this collection of recipes and a little bit of love, you'll be a donut-making pro in no time!

Here are some of my favorite homemade donut recipes! Make sure you click thru some of the links to view the recipes.


Brioche Crumb Donuts by The Practical Kitchen

This brioche donut recipe has the most delectable crumb topping! These are going to remind you of an Entemann’s but they taste so much fresher!





Creme Brulee Donuts by Corrie Cooks

This recipe makes such elegant cream filled donuts at home. You are sure to appreciate how easy this recipe is to recreate if you love all things creme brulee.


Baked Double Chocolate Donuts by What the Fork

This baked donut recipe is so good! It has loads of chocolate flavor in a gluten free form that everyone can enjoy.


Strawberry Donuts by Fit and Full

These donuts have a sweet strawberry flavor that you will love. Bake them for a delicious start to your day or serve them as a snack  in the afternoon.





Oreo Donuts by Organically Addison

If you love cookies and cream flavor then these donuts are going to pique your interest! This decadent donut recipe is perfect for a treat to share with someone sweet.


Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Donuts by Bake It With Love

This donut recipe brings lots of peanut butter flavor to your breakfast routine. Sprinkle in plenty of chocolate chips for a dreamy combination.


Cinnamon Roll Donuts by Savor the Spoonful

Can’t decide between donuts and cinnamon rolls? Why not combine them into one tasty treat? You are sure to love the cinnamon burst these donuts offer.


Churro Donuts by I Heart Eating

If you love churros, then adding them to donuts is going to be a delicious idea that works for a dreamy breakfast or an epic dessert.


Confetti Baked Donuts by Life as a Strawberry

This donut recipe tastes like a party in every bite! You are sure to love the tender baked donut paired with the decadent chocolate glaze that is so fudgy!


Baked Chocolate Donuts by The Flour Handprint

These donuts are baked to perfection with so much chocolate flavor. Toss them in powdered sugar or dip them into chocolate glaze for a restaurant quality sweet treat.





Red Velvet Donuts by Lane and Grey Fare

This red velvet donut recipe is beautiful to look at, but wait until you taste these vegan donuts, you are going to LOVE them!


Banana Donuts with Chocolate Glaze by Homan at Home

These donuts have a soft sweet flavor that is perfect for anyone who loves bananas. Dip them in chocolate for a perfect start to the day.


Apple Cider Donuts by The Gunny Sack

This apple cider donut recipe has so much fall flavor! Make these to savor with a cup of hot apple cider for a seasonal sweet that you are sure to love.


Brioche Donuts by A Baking Journey

This decadent, rich donut recipe is perfect for a Sunday brunch. Enjoy them plain or stuff them with cream, fruit or custard for a super yummy homemade treat.


Raised Donuts by Platter Talk

This classic donut recipe is perfect! These are so good that they will take you back to grandma’s kitchen for a moment when you taste them.





Coquito Donuts by Sense and Edibility

This donut recipe takes your taste buds on a tropical vacation with so much coconut flavor!


Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts by The Simple Sweet Life

These pumpkin spice latte donuts are what you make when you have a craving for seasonal flavors. This donut makes for a delicious breakfast or snack that has so much pumpkin flavor.


Boston Cream Donuts by Sugar Pursuit

These cream filled donuts are the definition of decadence. Make them for dessert, but be prepared! Everyone will ask you to make these again!


Fruity Pebbles Donuts by The Savory Cipolla

This colorful donut recipe makes use of a favorite cereal! These are perfect for the kids, but you will want to grab a few for yourself too.


S’mores Donuts with Marshmallow Cream by Broken Oven Baking

This donut recipe is full of summer vibes! Graham cracker crumbs, chocolate glaze and marshmallow cream make for the best s’mores donut ever!


Sour Cream Donuts by Craving Some Creativity

This recipe makes for retro donuts that taste timelessly good! Sour cream gives these donuts a rich and moist flavor.


Jelly Donuts by An Edible Mosaic 

Stuff these donuts with your favorite jelly for a delicious treat you can have for breakfast or dessert.


Pistachio Cream Donuts by Addicted to Dates

This vegan donut recipe has the best cream filling! If you like pistachios, then you are going to want to grab a bite of this treat.


Mini Orange Donuts by 24 Bite

These mini donuts are made the easy way; with cake mix and a donut maker! You will love this fast and flavorful recipe for easy breakfasts.





Pennsylvania Dutch Donuts by Beyond the Butter

These cream filled donuts are full of Pennsylvania Dutch flavor! You are sure to love the fluffy texture these homemade donuts offer.


Sourdough Discard Donuts by Season and Thyme

Don’t toss that sourdough discard! Make the most flavorful donuts with it. These are simple and simply delicious!


Caramel Biscuit Donuts by Baba Ganosh

These tasty treats start with canned biscuits and end up as a goodie that rivals a bakery’s donuts! I know you will love these fast goodies.


Honey Doughnuts by Live to Sweet

This simple sweet donut recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Dip them in a delicate vanilla honey glaze for the best flavor.


Instant Pot Donuts by Corrie Cooks

Did you know you can make donuts in your instant pot? These are so tasty and come together really fast!


Krispy Kreme Donuts by Seasonal Cravings

These taste just like krispie kreme, but are from your home kitchen! Make these for a really good snack that always hits the spot.



Find more favorite recipes here: