If your kids love Uncrustables, you’re going to love this homemade version even more. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also much more affordable than buying the pre-packaged kind.

Making homemade Uncrustables is a simple way to save money while still keeping lunch quick and convenient. You can make a whole batch at once, freeze them, and have ready to go lunches anytime you need them.

The best part? You can customize them with your favorite bread, peanut butter, and jelly flavors to fit your family’s taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget friendly alternative to store bought
• Freezer friendly for easy meal prep
• Customizable with different fillings
• Perfect for school lunches or snacks
• Takes just minutes to make

How To Make Homemade Uncrustables From Scratch

The ingredients and steps below walk you through making your own Uncrustables at home. All you need are a few basic ingredients and either a sandwich cutter or a simple glass to seal the edges.

These store perfectly in the freezer, making them ideal for meal prepping lunches ahead of time.

This recipe makes 6 sandwiches, but you can easily double or triple the batch.

Homemade Uncrustables Ingredients

• 12 slices sandwich bread (soft white or wheat works best)
• ½ cup peanut butter
• ½ cup jelly or jam (grape, strawberry, or your favorite)

How To Make Homemade Uncrustables

1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
2. Spread peanut butter on one slice and jelly on another.
3. Place the slices together to form a sandwich.
4. Use a round sandwich cutter or a glass to cut out the center of the sandwich.
5. Press the edges firmly to seal (you can also use a fork to crimp the edges if needed).
6. Remove the crusts and repeat with remaining bread.
7. Place sandwiches in a single layer and freeze for about 1 hour.
8. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage.

Tips for Best Results

• Use soft bread to help seal the edges easily
• Avoid overfilling to prevent leaking
• Freeze individually first so they don’t stick together
• Label and store for up to 1–2 months in the freezer

Variations to Try

• Almond butter and jelly
• Sunflower butter for nut-free lunches
• Peanut butter and honey
• Cream cheese and fruit spread

More Easy Lunch Ideas

• DIY Lunchables
• Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
• Easy Bento Box Lunch Ideas
• Freezer Friendly Breakfast Sandwiches
• Free Printable Lunchbox Notes

Be sure to pin this for later and grab the printable recipe below.

Homemade Uncrustables Recipe

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• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team

Ingredients

• 12 slices sandwich bread (soft white or wheat works best)
• ½ cup peanut butter
• ½ cup jelly or jam (grape, strawberry, or your favorite)

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Instructions

1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
2. Spread peanut butter on one slice and jelly on another.
3. Place the slices together to form a sandwich.
4. Use a round sandwich cutter or a glass to cut out the center of the sandwich.
5. Press the edges firmly to seal (you can also use a fork to crimp the edges if needed).
6. Remove the crusts and repeat with remaining bread.
7. Place sandwiches in a single layer and freeze for about 1 hour.
8. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage.

Notes

Variations to Try

• Almond butter and jelly
• Sunflower butter for nut-free lunches
• Peanut butter and honey
• Cream cheese and fruit spread

The post Homemade Uncrustables Recipe appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Spring is the perfect season to get outside, reconnect, and make memories together and you don’t need to spend a fortune to do it. From sunset picnics and farmers market strolls to free outdoor concerts and DIY backyard movie nights, these cheap spring date ideas prove that the best moments in life really are free (or close to it). 

Whether you’re newly dating or have been together for years, there’s something here for every couple looking to enjoy the season without breaking the bank.

Free & Outdoor Spring Date Ideas

1. Pack a Picnic in the Park

Grab a blanket, load up a basket with your favorite snacks, and head to your nearest park. Picnics are endlessly romantic, totally free (beyond the cost of food you’d buy anyway), and a beautiful way to enjoy the warm spring air.

Savings Tip: Shop your grocery store’s sale section or use a cashback app like Ibotta to save on picnic supplies.

2. Hike a Local Trail

Spring is hands-down the best time to hit the trails. Wildflowers are blooming, temperatures are comfortable, and the scenery is stunning. Look up free trails near you on AllTrails and make a day of it.

Pro Tip: Pack your own trail snacks and a reusable water bottle to keep costs at zero.

3. Visit a Farmers Market

Strolling a local farmers market together is a surprisingly fun date. Sample free tastings, pick up a small bunch of fresh flowers, grab a cheap breakfast item, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Most markets are free to enter.

4. Watch the Sunset from a Scenic Spot

Scout out a rooftop, hilltop, bridge, or lakeside spot in your area and head there 30 minutes before sunset. Bring a thermos of coffee or hot cocoa and enjoy nature’s free light show.

5. Explore a Botanical Garden

Many botanical gardens offer free admission or low-cost entry, especially on weekdays or certain evenings. Spring is their peak season, so you’ll be treated to an explosion of color. Check for free admission days on their website before you go.

Budget-Friendly Activity Date Ideas (Under $20)

Sometimes a little spending goes a long way. These date ideas stay well under $20 for two people but still feel like a real night out.

6. Visit a Drive-In Movie

Drive-in theaters are having a major comeback, and many charge $10 to $15 per car, not per person. Bring your own snacks to cut costs further and enjoy a nostalgic, romantic evening.

Savings Tip: Check Groupon or the theater’s website for discount nights before you book.

7. Attend a Free Outdoor Concert or Festival

Spring is packed with free outdoor concerts, art walks, and community festivals. Check your city’s events calendar, Facebook Events, or Eventbrite, filtered to “free,” for weekend options near you.

8. Take a Cooking Class Together

Many community centers, libraries, and local culinary schools host low-cost or free cooking classes in the spring. Learning to make a new dish together is interactive, delicious, and something you’ll use again and again.

9. Go Thrift Store Shopping

Set a $5 or $10 budget and challenge each other to find the best (or most ridiculous) item. It’s surprisingly competitive, hilarious, and a fun way to spend an afternoon. Bonus: you might actually find something great.

10. Visit a Free Museum or Gallery

Many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month, select evenings, or for specific groups. Check your local museum’s website or search ‘free museum days [your city]’ to find deals.

Stay-at-Home Spring Date Ideas

Who says you have to go out to have a great date? These at-home ideas are creative, cozy, and cost next to nothing.

11. Set Up a Backyard Movie Night

String up some lights, lay out blankets and pillows, prop up your laptop or a small projector, and stream a favorite movie under the stars. Add some popcorn and it’s practically a theater experience for free.

12. Have a Spring Cooking Night

Pick a recipe featuring fresh, seasonal produce, like strawberry salads, asparagus pasta, or homemade lemonade. Cook together, set the table nicely, and make a real dinner experience out of it.

Savings Tip: Shop at a discount grocery store or use weekly sales ads to source ingredients on the cheap.

13. Start a Garden Together

Planting a small herb garden or a few flowers together is a surprisingly romantic (and practical) spring date. Seed packets cost less than $2 each, and you’ll have something living to tend to together all season long.

14. Do a Spring Photography Walk

Grab your phones and head out for a neighborhood walk with a mission: capture the most beautiful signs of spring you can find. Compare photos at the end and create a shared album. It’s free, creative, and gives you a memory to look back on.

15. Play Lawn Games in the Backyard

Dust off the cornhole boards, bocce set, or badminton rackets and spend an afternoon competing in the backyard. Add a cooler of drinks and some easy snacks and you’ve got a perfect low-key spring afternoon.

Be sure to pin this for later and check out the bonus date ideas below!

Bonus: Spring Date Ideas for the Adventurous Couple

• Kayak or canoe a local river, many outfitters offer affordable hourly rentals in spring
• Visit a local farm or strawberry patch for pick-your-own produce
• Take a scenic road trip to a nearby small town and explore on foot
• Volunteer together at a community garden or park cleanup event
• Stargaze at a dark sky park or observatory (many host free events)

The best dates aren’t measured by how much you spend, they’re measured by how present you are, how much you laugh, and whether you walk away feeling more connected than before. Spring gives you the perfect backdrop: fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a season full of energy. All you have to do is show up.

The post Best Cheap Spring Date Ideas for Couples (Romantic & Fun!) appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Homemade Electrolyte Drink

Staying hydrated is important, especially during hot weather, workouts, or busy days when you're constantly on the go. While store bought sports drinks can help replenish electrolytes, they often come with added sugars, artificial colors, and a higher price tag.

Making your own homemade electrolyte drinks at home is a simple and affordable alternative. With fresh citrus juice, a little natural sweetener, and a pinch of salt, you can create a refreshing drink that helps replenish essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium.

This homemade version is easy to customize too. You can adjust the sweetness, swap citrus fruits, or even add a splash of coconut water for extra hydration benefits.

How To Make Homemade Electrolyte Drink From Scratch

The ingredients and directions below walk you through making a refreshing electrolyte drink at home using simple pantry staples. Fresh lemon or lime juice gives the drink a bright citrus flavor while a small amount of honey or maple syrup adds natural sweetness.

If you want a stronger citrus flavor, you can add additional lemon or lime slices to the drink before serving.

This recipe makes 2 servings, but it can easily be doubled or tripled to make a larger pitcher.

Homemade Electrolyte Drink Ingredients

• 2 cups cold water
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt or pink Himalayan salt
• Optional: ice and fresh citrus slices for serving

How To Make Electrolyte Drinks At Home

1. Add the water, lemon or lime juice, honey, and sea salt to a glass or jar.
2. Stir or shake well until the honey and salt dissolve completely.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
4. Pour over ice and add fresh citrus slices if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy a refreshing homemade electrolyte drink.

More Easy Drink Ideas

• How to Flavor Water at Home
• How to Make Your Own Iced Coffee
• How to Make Vanilla Iced Coffee
• Frugal Drink for Dining Out: DIY Lemonade

Be sure to pin this for later and grab the printable recipe below.

Homemade Electrolyte Drink

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• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 cups cold water
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt or pink Himalayan salt
• Optional: ice and fresh citrus slices for serving

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Instructions

1. Add the water, lemon or lime juice, honey, and sea salt to a glass or jar.
2. Stir or shake well until the honey and salt dissolve completely.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
4. Pour over ice and add fresh citrus slices if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy a refreshing homemade electrolyte drink.

The post Homemade Electrolyte Drink appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Homemade French Fries

Homemade French fries are one of those comfort foods that never disappoints. They’re budget-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for serving alongside burgers, sandwiches, or even as a quick snack.

With just a few basic ingredients, you can make restaurant-style fries right in your own kitchen. While it's easy to rely on frozen fries from the store, it's also just as easy to slice fresh potatoes, toss them in a little oil, and bake them until golden and crispy. It’s an easy recipe that turns a few pantry staples into a delicious side dish the whole family will enjoy.

How To Make Homemade French Fries From Scratch

The ingredients and directions below walk you through making crispy homemade French fries in the oven. Baking the fries instead of deep frying them keeps the recipe simple while still delivering great flavor and texture.

If you want to change things up, you can season the fries with garlic powder, paprika, or even parmesan cheese after baking. Russet potatoes work best for classic fries, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly creamier texture.

This recipe makes 4–6 servings depending on portion size. If you’re cooking for a crowd, simply double the recipe.

Homemade French Fries Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or parmesan cheese

How To Make Homemade French Fries

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Wash and peel the potatoes if desired.
3. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized fry-shaped strips.
4. Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch.
5. Drain and thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with a towel.
6. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
7. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

More Easy Dinner Ideas

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like these easy meal ideas:

• Homemade Sloppy Joe Seasoning Mix
• The Best Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets
• Homemade Classic Meatloaf Recipe
• White Castle Jalapeno Cheeseburger Copycat Recipe

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Oven Baked Homemade French Fries

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• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Wash and peel the potatoes if desired.
3. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized fry-shaped strips.
4. Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch.
5. Drain and thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with a towel.
6. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
7. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

The post Oven Baked Homemade French Fries appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

We’ve all been there. You’re halfway through a recipe and suddenly realize you’re out of baking powder. Instead of running to the store, you can make your own homemade baking powder in just a few minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have at home!

This easy pantry staple DIY is convenient, a great way to save money and it can be mixed together in minutes. Making simple kitchen basics from scratch is a great frugal living habit that keeps your grocery budget and having this simple homemade version at home means you’ll never have to pause your baking again to run to the store when you are out!

How To Make Homemade Baking Powder From Scratch

The ingredients and directions below walk you through making your own baking powder at home. This simple combination mimics the store bought baking powder and works perfectly in pancakes, muffins, quick breads, and so much more.

If you plan to store it for later use, be sure to keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For single use recipes, you can also mix the ingredients fresh as needed. It's really up to you! The best part? You can easily double or triple the recipe if desired.

Homemade Baking Powder Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

How To Make Homemade Baking Powder

1. Add the cream of tartar and baking soda to a small bowl.
2. Whisk together thoroughly until completely combined.
3. Use immediately in your recipe, or store in an airtight container for later use.

How To Substitute in Recipes

Use homemade baking powder as a 1:1 replacement for store bought baking powder.

For example:

• If a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon baking powder, use 1 teaspoon of this homemade mixture.

Why Make Your Own Baking Powder?

• Saves money
• Prevents last minute grocery runs
• Uses simple pantry staples
• Great for emergency baking situations
• Helps you control ingredients

Small swaps like this are an easy way to practice frugal living without sacrificing convenience.

More Easy DIY Pantry Staples

• How to Make Homemade Brown Sugar
• Homemade Cream Soup Base Mix
• Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
• Homemade Vanilla Extract

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The post Homemade Baking Powder appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Spring is always feels like a great time to have a fresh start! As the weather warms up and we hope the windows, it's almost like there is sudden urge to clean, organize, and maybe even redecorate everything.

But here’s the thing…you don’t have to spend money to refresh your home and your budget.

These frugal living ideas for spring are simple, practical, and easy to start today. No complicated systems. No expensive purchases. Just smart choices that add up.

Declutter Before Buying Anything New

Before heading out to grab new spring decor, updated kitchen gadgets, or storage bins…start by decluttering what you already own.

Simply go room by room to do the following:

• Donate what you no longer use
• Sell higher value items online
• Toss broken or unusable items
• Reorganize what stays

Spring is the perfect time to shop your home first and finding items to sell for extra cash! By selling unused items, you can give your small budget a boost. Even an extra $100 from decluttering can go toward groceries, savings, or debt payoff.

Plan Spring Meals Around Seasonal Produce

Spring produce is often less expensive and more flavorful. Think strawberries, spinach, carrots, lettuce, and asparagus.

Instead of meal planning around recipes first, start with what’s on sale and in season.

Simply think about things like:

• Big salad nights with simple protein
• Breakfast for dinner using fresh fruit
• Easy veggie packed casseroles
• Smoothies with seasonal berries

Building your meal plan around produce that's on seasonal and most likely on sale helps to reduce your grocery bill over time.

Refresh Your Home Without Buying New Decor

It's totally normal to want to redecorate as soon as the sun comes out! Trust me, I get it!

Instead of rushing out to buy new decor, try this:

• Rearrange furniture
• Swap decor between rooms
• Bring in fresh flowers or greenery from outside
• Wash throw blankets and pillow covers
• Deep clean windows for instant brightness

Sometimes a deep clean and a furniture shuffle feels like a whole new house…and it costs nothing. YES!

Start a Small Backyard or Container Garden

You don’t need a full garden to grow your own food. You can start with a few buckets or a small raised bed to create a garden that produces food thats both healthy and delicious!

Start small with:

• Herbs in pots
• Cherry tomatoes
• Lettuce
• Peppers

A small garden can help cut down on produce costs and it also gives you a little hobby to do in your spare time too! WIN! WIN! Who doesn't love being able to walk outside and pick some veggies to make for dinner. Now that's why I call “farm to table”!

Do a Spring Budget Reset

Spring is the perfect time to review your budget and adjust for the new season.

Ask yourself:

• Are we spending more eating out now that the weather is nicer?
• Do we need to adjust utility budgets as temperatures change?
• Are there subscriptions we forgot about?
• Can we set a summer savings goal now?

A simple 30 minute budget check-in can help you avoid overspending before summer arrives.

Small resets now prevent bigger money stress later.

Spring gives us the perfect natural opportunity to clean up habits, refresh routines, and make small changes that protect our budget long term. You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Pick one of these frugal living ideas for spring and start there. Small changes add up.

More Frugal Living Tips

• 52 Week Savings Challenge
• Money Saving Challenges – Easy Ways to Save Money!
• 50 Things You Can Cook From Scratch
• 8 Ways to Save Big on Your Next Family Vacation
• Stockpiling 101: Tips for Moms to Build a Grocery Stockpile
• Emergency Fund Savings: 24 Items to Sell to Fund the Account

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The post 5 Frugal Living Ideas for Spring That Actually Save Money appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

This easy pancake recipe is one we come back to again and again. It’s affordable, simple to make, and perfect for feeding the whole family without a lot of effort. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a warm breakfast on the table in minutes. Serve these pancakes with fresh fruit, syrup, or whatever toppings you already have on hand for a budget friendly meal that feels extra special.

How To Make Easy Pancakes From Scratch

The ingredients and directions below walk you through making classic pancakes from scratch with no fancy tools required. If you’re out of milk, you can substitute with almond milk or another dairy free option. You can also easily add chocolate chips or blueberries to the batter for a fun twist.

This recipe makes about 8–10 pancakes, depending on size. If you’re cooking for a crowd, simply double or triple the recipe to your liking.

Easy Pancake Recipe Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons melted butter or oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Homemade Pancakes

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake.
6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

More Easy Breakfast Ideas

• Homemade Sausage Egg and Cheese McMuffin
• Eggnog French Toast Recipe
• Breakfast Casserole
• Breakfast Burritos

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Easy Pancake Recipe

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• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team
• Category: Breakfast
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons melted butter or oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake.
6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

The post Easy Pancake Recipe appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

There's something special about a bowl of homemade split pea soup. It's a warm, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying soup that won't break the bank. This Simple Split Pea Soup is proof that delicious meals don't have to be complicated or expensive.

Split peas are a budget-friendly powerhouse ingredient. They're packed with protein and fiber, cook relatively quickly (no soaking required!), and transform into the best creamy soup with minimal effort. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, this recipe has you covered.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Split peas cost pennies per serving, making this one of the most economical soups you can make.
• Nutritious: High in protein and fiber, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of what you need in your pantry already.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for easy meals later.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax.

Simple Split Pea Soup Recipe

Ingredients You'll need

• 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How To Make Split Pea soup From Scratch

1. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and easy.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the rinsed split peas and broth. Stir to combine.
4. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
5. If the soup becomes too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Split peas will continue to absorb liquid as they sit.
6. Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, if you're using store-bought broth, it may already be salty, so taste before adding more.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy in Bulk: Split peas are even cheaper when purchased in bulk from the bulk bins at your grocery store.
• Use Homemade Broth: Save vegetable scraps in the freezer and make your own broth to cut costs even further.
• Skip the Meat: This vegetarian version is already protein-rich and delicious, saving you the cost of ham or sausage.
• Double the Recipe: Split pea soup freezes beautifully. Make extra and freeze in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The soup will thicken as it sits—just add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Variations to Try

• Add Ham: Stir in diced leftover ham or a ham hock for a smoky, meaty flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in potatoes, sweet potatoes, or spinach for additional nutrition.
• Make It Creamy: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for an even creamier texture.

More Soup Recipes To Try

• Homemade Cream Soup Base Mix
• Crockpot Potato Soup
• Olive Garden Zuppa Tuscano Soup Copycat Recipe
• Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
• Copycat Panera Squash Soup Recipe

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The post Simple Split Pea Soup appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

If you love chocolate and peanut butter together, this Reese’s Fudge is about to become your new favorite no-bake dessert. It’s rich, smooth, and loaded with classic Reese’s flavor in every bite. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this fudge is perfect for parties, or when you need an easy sweet treat without turning on the oven.

Reese’s Fudge Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

• 20 regular-size Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• 3 cups chocolate chips
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk

How to Make Reese's Fudge From Scratch

1. Line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
2. Evenly space 16 Reese’s peanut butter cups across the bottom of the pan.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.
4. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Repeat heating and stirring until smooth, about 3–5 minutes total depending on your microwave.
5. Pour and spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter cups.
6. Cut or break the remaining 4 Reese’s cups into pieces and sprinkle them over the top, gently pressing them into the fudge.
7. Refrigerate until set, then lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Tips for the Best Reese’s Chocolate Fudge

• Use good quality chocolate chips: This helps create a smooth, rich texture.
• Line the pan well: Parchment paper makes removing and slicing the fudge much easier.
• Let it fully chill: Give the fudge time to set completely before cutting for clean edges.
• Store properly: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for the best texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Fudge

This Reese’s chocolate fudge is creamy, indulgent, and packed with chocolate-peanut butter goodness. It’s an easy dessert that looks impressive but takes very little effort to make. Whether you’re adding it to a holiday dessert tray or making it just because, this chocolate fudge recipe is always a crowd favorite.

More Delicious Desserts To Try!

• Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Andes Mint Chocolate Fudge
• Homemade Brownies Recipe
• Hot Fudge Sauce Recipe

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The post Reese’s Fudge appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

If you’re dealing with stuffiness, seasonal allergies or congestion, these sinus relief shower steamers are an easy DIY you’ll want to keep on hand. They’re simple to make, budget-friendly, and work perfectly for anyone who prefers a shower friendly aromatherapy over traditional bath bombs.

With just a few pantry staples and essential oils, you can whip up a batch in minutes. These fizzy bombs release soothing eucalyptus and peppermint steam that helps open your airways and make breathing a little easier during the cold season

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda
• ½ cup citric acid
• Food coloring (optional)
• Witch hazel in a spray bottle
• Silicone ice cube–size molds
• Rubber gloves
• 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 6 drops peppermint essential oil
• 4 drops lavender essential oil (optional)

How to make sinus relief shower steamers From Scratch

1. Put on rubber gloves and set out your silicone molds, mixing bowl, and spray bottle with witch hazel.
2. Mix 1 cup baking soda and ½ cup citric acid in a bowl.
3. Add food coloring if you want them colored.
4. Add the essential oils and mix well.
5. Lightly spray the mixture with witch hazel, stirring after each spray until it feels like damp sand.
6. Press the mixture firmly into your silicone molds.
7. Let the molds sit for 12–24 hours to dry completely.
8. Remove the fizzies from the molds and store in an airtight container.
9. Place one on the shower floor to slowly dissolve and release the sinus-relief scent.

How to Use the Steamers

Place one fizzy on the shower floor, but not directly under the main stream of water. As it melts, it releases a soothing steam that helps open your sinuses. It’s a quick way to get relief without taking a full bath.

Helpful Tips

• Add the witch hazel slowly: too much will cause the mixture to fizz and not set up properly.
• Store the steamers in a cool, dry place.
• Add more eucalyptus if you prefer a stronger scent. This is a great scent to help clear up the sinuses.

Great for Gift Giving Season

These diy sinus relief shower steamers make a thoughtful and practical homemade gift during the holidays or cold and flu season. Add a handful to a jar, tie on a ribbon, and you have a gift anyone will appreciate!

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More Easy DIY Recipes

Homemade Shower Melts Recipe

Bath Bomb Fizzy Bath Powder

Homemade Bath Bombs like LUSH

How to Make Bath Bombs

The post DIY Sinus Relief Shower Steamers (Easy Fizzy Bombs Recipe) appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Keeping your home warm in the winter can sometimes feel like a financial burden, but it doesn't have to be that way. With these simple and strategic changes, you can significantly lower your heating costs while keep your home comfortable and staying within your budget all winter long.

Lower Your Thermostat

Every degree you lower your thermostat saves about 1% on your heating bill. By dropping it by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day (while at work or sleeping), and you could save up to 10% annually.

Normally, I like to keep my thermostat around 68°F during the day and I lower it at night to around 64°F. Your body actually sleeps better in cooler temperatures so even if you layer up on the blankets, you probably won't even notice the difference. If you aren't ready to take the plunge, start with just one degree lower and watch how your body adjusts.

Improve Your Insulation

Insulation is one of the biggest ways to lower your heating costs. Think of insulation like a warm coat for your house. Without proper insulation, you're essentially heating the outdoors.

The biggest heat losses happen in your attic, walls, and basement. Check your attic insulation depth (if it's less than 11 inches), you're losing heat. Upgrading attic insulation often provides the fastest return on investment.

Older homes built before the 1980s may have little to no wall insulation. Adding it can reduce heating costs by 15-20%. Don't forget basement and crawl space insulation either.

Note: Many utility companies offer free energy audits to identify where your home loses heat. Contact your energy provider and take advantage of these valuable assessments.

Seal Air Leaks

Tiny gaps around windows, doors, outlets, and pipes can let as much air escape as leaving a window open. Weatherstripping and caulk are inexpensive fixes for windows and doors. Also check these spots:

• Pipes and wires entering your home
• Electrical outlets on exterior walls
• Attic doors
• Fireplace dampers
• Dryer vents

For under $50, you can seal most problem areas in an afternoon and it could save up to 20% on your yearly winter heating bills.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Having a programmable thermostat is one of the most invaluable items to have in your home. It allows you to set up a schedule that automatically adjusts temperature based on your families needs. Set the temperature while you're at work or sleeping, then warm up before you return home or wake up. You'll never waste money heating an empty house ever again.

Smart thermostats even go further by learning your habits and adjusting when you leave (using your phone's location). They also provide energy reports showing where your money goes.

Use Window Coverings Strategically

Install heavy thermal curtains or cellular shades to help reduce heat loss through windows by 25-50%, especially older single pane windows. These types of curtains help trap air in pockets and create a “insulation” for your windows in the winter and summer months. Think of these as an investment in to your yearly heating and cooling costs.

Service Your HVAC System

Having an annual HVAC tune-up ($80-150) can improve efficiency by up to 15% and extend your system's lifespan by years. A technician will clean filters, check connections, inspect the heat exchanger, and test safety features.

Between professional visits, change your air filter every 1-3 months. A dirty filter makes your system work harder and can increase costs by up to 5-15%. Also keep vents and radiators clear of furniture and clutter so air flows freely throughout the home.

Upgrade to An Energy Efficient System

If your furnace is over 15 years old, it likely operates at 60-70% efficiency. Modern high-efficiency models reach 90-98% efficiency, meaning nearly all fuel actually heats your home instead of escaping as waste.

A new furnace costs $2,500-6,000 installed, but the system pays for itself in 5-10 years and continues saving money for another 10-15 years.

Don't overlook water heaters, they're the second largest energy expense. High efficiency models (especially tankless or heat pump types) can cut water heating costs by 30-50%.

Many utility companies and federal programs offer rebates and tax credits. The Inflation Reduction Act provides up to $2,000 in tax credits for qualifying heat pumps, plus 30% credit on installation costs.

Saving on heating bills doesn't require you to shiver through winter months or have massive upfront investments. Start with free and low cost strategies first like lowering your thermostat, sealing air leaks, and maintaining your HVAC system. These alone can reduce heating costs by up to 20-30%.

Remember, the most expensive heating system is one working hard to heat a poorly insulated, leaky home. Fix the easy stuff first, then upgrade later.

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The post How to Save on Heating Bills This Winter appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

If you’re looking for a cool and creamy side dish that’s perfect for cookouts, picnics, or holiday dinners, this classic pea salad is a must make! Made with frozen peas, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing, it’s the perfect mix of savory and sweet. This quick and easy recipe comes together in minutes and is always a hit with the crowd.

How To Make Pea Salad From Scratch

The ingredients and directions listed below walk you through making this amazing side dish recipe. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or just want a quick side for dinner, this classic pea salad is simple, delicious, and always a crowd pleaser.

This recipe will makes 8-10 servings. If you need extra, simply double or triple the recipe to enjoy this easy side dish recipe.

Pea salad Ingredients

• 4 cup Frozen Peas, thawed
• 10 slices cooked Bacon
• 1/2 Red Onion
• 8 oz Cheddar Cheese
• 1 tablespoon Mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup Sour Cream
• 1 tablespoon Vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Sugar

How To Make Homemade Pea Salad

1. Place peas in large bowl.
2. Cut bacon into bite size pieces. Add to bowl.
3. Dice red onion. Add to bowl.
4. Cut cheese into 1/4″ cubes and add to bowl.
5. In a small bowl combine remaining ingredients and whisk to combine.
6. Add dressing to bowl and mix to coat.

Tips for Making the Best Pea Salad

This classic pea salad with frozen peas is easy to make ahead, budget-friendly, and pairs well with just about any main dish.

• Use frozen peas: They’re the perfect balance of texture and sweetness — just thaw and drain before mixing.
• Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, letting the flavors blend together.
• Add-ins to try: Stir in diced hard-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, or a handful of shredded cheese for a twist.

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Classic Pea Salad

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• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team

Ingredients

• 4 cup Frozen Peas, thawed
• 10 slices cooked Bacon
• 1/2 Red Onion
• 8 oz Cheddar Cheese
• 1 tbsp Mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup Sour Cream
• 1 tbsp Vinegar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Pepper
• 1/4 tsp Sugar

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Instructions

1. Place peas in large bowl.
2. Cut bacon into bite size pieces. Add to bowl.
3. Dice red onion. Add to bowl.
4. Cut cheese into 1/4″ cubes and add to bowl.
5. In a small bowl combine remaining ingredients and whisk to combine.
6. Add dressing to bowl and mix to coat.

The post Classic Pea Salad appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

I can’t even count how many times these would have come in handy for my kids’ teams over the years! Whether it’s a small “good luck” treat before the big game or a “way to go!” after a win, these printable wrappers are such a fun (and simple!) way to share some team spirit.

Sometimes it’s not about the score! It’s about those little moments that make being part of a team so special. A surprise snack with a little treat wrapper can go a long way to make your child’s teammates smile and feel appreciated.

Over the years, I’ve seen plenty of pre-game pep talks, post-game tears, and all out sugar fueled celebrations (thanks to snack moms everywhere). These wrappers are a fun way to make those moments even more memorable!

I still remember my boys’ first sports teams…those tiny uniforms, big smiles, and even bigger energy! Whether it was soccer, baseball, or basketball, every season brought new friendships and memories that we still talk about today.

If you’ve ever been a team parent or volunteered to bring snacks, you know how much joy a small, thoughtful touch can bring. These printable treat wrappers make it super easy to turn a basic snack into a fun filled moment and they’re totally free to download and print!

So grab your favorite treats (think small candy bars, granola bars, or even gum packs), wrap them up, and surprise the team! Whether it’s a little “you got this!” before the game or a “great season!” sendoff, these are guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Download your free printable treat wrappers here and make your next team snack extra special!

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Want to Thank a Coach? Grab these Printable Thank You Cards!

The post DIY Sports Treats: Free Printable Treat Wrappers for Game Day appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, you can never go wrong with a batch of crispy, golden baked chicken nuggets. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and made from scratch! With just a few pantry staples and less than 30 minutes to cook, this recipe makes mealtime simple, satisfying, and kid approved.

How To Make Homemade Chicken Nuggets From Scratch

The ingredients and directions listed below walk you through making this amazing family friendly recipe. If you don't have chicken breast on hand, you can easily substitute it with chicken thighs or even chicken tenders, but you do want to make sure you debone the chicken well when you are cubing the chicken.

This recipe will makes 4-6 servings. If you need extra, simply double or triple the recipe to enjoy this easy weeknight dinner recipe.

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Chicken Nugget Ingredients

• 2 cups regular or panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce

For Serving:

• Ketchup
• Honey mustard
• Ranch dressing
• Your favorite dipping sauce

How to Make The Best Chicken Nuggets

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and salt.
3. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly onto a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Bake for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. While breadcrumbs are toasting, cut chicken into bite-sized chunks.
6. Remove breadcrumbs from the oven and transfer back to the bowl. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
7. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly coat with nonstick spray.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and barbecue sauce.
9. Dip chicken pieces into the mayo mixture, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until well coated.
10. Arrange chicken nuggets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
11. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
12. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Be sure to pin this recipe for later and get the printable recipe below.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Chicken Nuggets

• Use a wire rack: It helps the heat circulate for that perfect crispy coating.
• Toast the breadcrumbs first: This quick step adds extra crunch and flavor.
• Switch up sauces: From classic ketchup to zesty buffalo ranch, the dip makes all the difference!
• Switch up the seasonings: Try adding a little cayenne for heat or swap barbecue sauce for honey mustard in the coating.
• Double the batch: These freeze perfectly for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

These oven baked chicken nuggets are a healthier twist on a takeout favorite. They’re made with real chicken, no mystery ingredients, and they bake up golden brown and crispy every time. Plus, they freeze and reheat beautifully, making them one of the best chicken nuggets recipes to keep on rotation for busy weeknights.

More Easy Weeknight Dinner Ideas

• Buffalo Chicken Sliders
• Copycat Long John Silver’s Chicken Recipe
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken
• Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
• Tater Tot Casserole

The Best Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets

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• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: ~35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 cups regular or panko breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce

For Serving:

• Ketchup

• Honey mustard

• Ranch dressing

• Your favorite dipping sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and salt.
3. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly onto a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Bake for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. While breadcrumbs are toasting, cut chicken into bite-sized chunks.
6. Remove breadcrumbs from the oven and transfer back to the bowl. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
7. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly coat with nonstick spray.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and barbecue sauce.
9. Dip chicken pieces into the mayo mixture, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until well coated.
10. Arrange chicken nuggets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
11. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
12. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

The post The Best Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

There is something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup, freshly baked bread, or creamy mac and cheese from Panera. What if I told you that you don't have to leave the house to enjoy your favorites? These easy Panera copycat recipes let you make that cozy experience right in your own kitchen making them perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or lazy weekend meals.

Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying; this mac and cheese tastes just like Panera’s version. It’s quick and easy to make and always a family favorite. Try the Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe and see for yourself why it’s a go to comfort food.

Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Rich, cheesy, and packed with broccoli, this soup is perfect for chilly days or easy lunches. Grab a bread bowl or crusty roll and dig into the Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe for a taste of this classic family favorite.

Panera Rigatoni San Marzano Copycat Recipe

This pasta dish combines tender rigatoni with a flavorful tomato cream sauce that is easy to make at home. Get the full recipe for Panera Rigatoni San Marzano Recipe and impress your family with a meal that tastes like it came straight from Panera’s kitchen.

Copycat Panera Squash Soup Recipe

Panera’s Autumn Squash Soup is a fall favorite that’s delicious year round. Make a big batch of the Copycat Panera Squash Soup Recipe for cozy nights or easy lunches. You won't regret it! It's sweet, savory, and smooth.

With these easy copycat recipes, you can enjoy your favorite dishes any time. No lines, no takeout containers, and no high prices. Just simple, comfort food made right at home.

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The post Easy Panera Copycat Recipes to Make at Home appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

I like to make up anywhere from 3 to 6 batches and store them in the pantry for a quick homemade treat. It really takes no more effort to prepare 6 than it does 1 batch and you can have a from scratch cookie mix ready to go anytime!

You can take this same recipe and layer it in a jar for a terrific gift; housewarmings, welcome to the neighborhood, new baby, holidays, or a quick teacher gift. If you need a quick contribution to a bake sale, you will have one ready to go. You probably have these ingredients already in your pantry so go ahead and whip up a few mixes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup white granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. salt

additional ingredients for baking:

• 1 ½ sticks of softened butter
• 1 whole egg and 1 yolk
• 2 tsp. Vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients together well and store in an airtight container in cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

I love to make mine up in mason jars, not only do they look pretty on my pantry shelves, but I use the round lid to trace paper which I then cut out and write my additional ingredients and baking directions on, so it is stored with the jar.

How To Make Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies from Scratch:

1. Preheat oven to 325
2. “Fluff” cookie mix to evenly distribute chocolate chips, which tend to settle to bottom.
3. In a large mixing bowl combine cookie mix, butter, eggs, and vanilla- stir to mix well.
4. Scoop cookie dough in about 1 to 2 Tbsp. portions
5. Place on an un-greased cookie sheet
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges turn golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and cool.

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Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Author: Savings Lifestyle: Andrea

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup white granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. Salt

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Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients together well and store in an airtight container in cool, dark place for up to
   I love to make mine up in mason jars, not only do they look pretty on my pantry shelves, but I use the round lid to trace paper which I then cut out and write my additional ingredients and baking directions on, so it is stored with the jar.

The post Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup, endless breadsticks, and creamy pasta from Olive Garden. But did you know you can recreate all your favorites right in your own kitchen? These copycat Olive Garden recipes bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant home, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just when that craving hits.

Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Creamy, rich, and full of flavor—this pasta dish is a classic. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up at home with simple ingredients. Try this Copycat Recipe: Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo for your next pasta night.

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

This hearty soup is packed with sausage, potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth that tastes just like the restaurant version. Cozy up with this Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup Copycat Recipe on a chilly evening.

Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Chicken and Penne Pasta

A cheesy, smoky twist on baked pasta that’s always a hit with my family. Learn how to make this amazing Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Chicken and Penne Pasta in your own kitchen.

Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

Soft, buttery, and brushed with garlic salt, just like the ones that come in that famous basket. You’ll want to make a double batch of these Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks because they’ll disappear fast.

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

This veggie packed soup is light, healthy, and full of flavor. Try this Copycat Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

You don’t have to leave the house to enjoy your favorite Olive Garden recipes. These copycat recipes are budget friendly, easy to make, and just as tasty as dining out…maybe even better!

Be sure to pin these amazing copycat recipes for later!

The post Copycat Olive Garden Recipes You Can Make At Home appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

If you’re craving Chipotle but want to skip the takeout line (and the bill), making your own versions at home is the way to go. With these Chipotle copycat recipes, you can recreate all your favorites—from guacamole to burrito bowls, right in your own kitchen. They’re simple, budget friendly, and taste just like the real thing for a fraction of the cost.

Copycat Chipotle Recipes to Try at Home

Chipotle Black Beans

A staple side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Make a big batch of Chipotle Black Beans Recipe to serve with rice, tacos, or burrito bowls.

Chipotle Guacamole

Fresh, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this Chipotle Copycat Guacamole Recipe is a must have for taco night or snacking with chips.

Chipotle Burrito Bowls

Skip the takeout and build your own at home with this CopyCat Recipe: Chipotle’s Burrito Bowls. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners.

Chipotle Corn Salsa and Mild Salsa

These toppings bring the signature flavor to any dish. Try the Copycat Recipe: Chipotle’s Corn Salsa and Mild Salsa for a fresh and zesty addition to tacos, bowls, or chips.

Chipotle Adobo Marinated Chicken

Juicy, flavorful, and full of smoky spice, this Copy Cat Recipe: Chipotle’s Adobo Marinated Chicken makes the perfect protein base for burritos, salads, or tacos.

Chipotle Cilantro-Lime Rice

No Chipotle-inspired meal is complete without rice! Try this Copycat Recipe: Chipotle’s Cilantro-Lime Rice for the perfect side to go with any of these dishes.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate your Chipotle favorites at home any night of the week. These copycat recipes are easy to make, full of flavor, and a fun way to bring your family take out favorites right to your table.

Be sure to pin these amazing copycat recipes for later!

The post Chipotle Copycat Recipes appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

There’s nothing better than coming home after a busy day to dinner that’s already made. Crockpot meals are a lifesaver for busy families, giving you more time for what matters and less time in the kitchen. With these easy crockpot recipes and practical tips, you’ll have everything you need to make slow cooking simple, delicious, and stress free.

And don't even get me talking about the amazing smell that you walk into after a busy day. The smell of a homemade crockpot meal ready to feed you and your family is one of the best things to walk into.

Crockpot Cooking Tips You’ll Actually Use

Save Time and Money with Smart Slow Cooking

Crockpots aren’t just about convenience, they can help stretch your grocery budget too. Learn how to make the most of your ingredients and time with these Slow Cooking Money Saving Tips and Time Saving Tricks.

Kitchen Gadgets That Make Crockpot Cooking Easier

From liners to tools that cut down on prep, the right kitchen gadgets can make cooking meals for your family effortless. See the must-haves (at every price point) in The Best Kitchen Gadgets for Every Budget.

Easy Crockpot Recipes to Try

Family Favorites & Copycat Meals

• Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo
• Crockpot Potato Soup
• Crockpot Chili
• Simple Crockpot Ham
• Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe

Comfort Foods & Sides

• Easy Homemade Bread in the Crockpot
• Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
• Extreme CrockPotting: Homemade Chicken Stock

Party Ready Dishes

• Quick and Easy Crockpot Cocktail Meatballs
• Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Chicken Recipes

• Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipe
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken
• Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Soups & Cozy Comfort

• Crockpot Italian Tortellini Soup

Sweet Treats & Drinks

• Homemade Hot Chocolate – Crockpot Version
• How to Make Crockpot Cake
• How to Make Homemade Yogurt in a Crockpot

Crockpot cooking takes the stress out of busy days, giving you warm, homemade meals without all the fuss. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner, prepping for a party, or making a yummy treat, these easy crockpot recipes and tips will help you get it done. All you have to do is…set it and forget it (until dinner time or dessert of course!)

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The post Easy Crockpot Recipes & Tips for Busy Days appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Let's face it, life gets hectic and freezer meals can be a total lifesaver. With a little prep, you can stock your freezer with ready to go dinners that make busy weeknights so much easier. Whether you’re new to freezer cooking or just looking to get more organized, these tips will help you save time, money, and stress in the kitchen. Plus, it helps take away the dreaded question…

“What are we having for dinner?”

That is the dreaded question that most moms (and even dads) dread each and every single week. With freezer meals, you can have a plan with a little prep work! Let's dig into the tips now!

Freezer Meal Ideas to Make Easy Freezer Meals

Not sure what to start with? Having the right recipes makes all the difference. From casseroles to slow cooker favorites, there are plenty of meals that freeze well and still taste great once reheated. Check out these Freezer Meal Ideas to Make Easy Freezer Meals for inspiration and tried and true family favorites.

Tips for Preparing and Freezing Meals in Advance

The prep work is where the magic happens! It's not the prettiest part of the process, but chopping veggies, portioning out proteins and assembling meals ahead of time helps you stay ahead during those busy weeks. You’ll find simple shortcuts and storage tips in Tips for Preparing and Freezing Meals in Advance, making it simple to fill your freezer without feeling overwhelmed.

Keep Track of Your Freezer Inventory

One of the biggest challenges with freezer meals is keeping track of what you already have. Without a system in place, it’s easy to lose track of meals and let them go to waste. Learn how to keep everything organized and easy to find with Keep Track of Your Freezer Inventory.

Freezer meals aren’t just about convenience, they’re about creating more time for what matters most…your family. With these freezer meal tips, you’ll always have a plan for dinner, avoid last minute stops in the drive thru, and make the most of your grocery budget.

Be sure to pin these freezer meal tips for later!

The post Freezer Meal Tips for Busy Families appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Cooking from scratch is a great way to stretch your budget a little further. Making homemade food also lets you control what your family is eating. There is a common misconception that cooking from scratch is hard or takes a lot of time. This is actually false. Cooking from scratch is fairly easy and once you get used to it you will be a pro! You will also come to see that homemade food taste so much better than store-bought.

Tips to Getting Started

Do not overwhelm yourself when you first start cooking from scratch. Pinterest shows us wonderful from scratch recipes, but it's easy to end up feeling overwhelmed. Remember that practice makes perfect! The first time you cook bread, bagels or anything else it might not come out perfect. Cooking is an art and it will take practice to get it just so.

Read 5 tips for easy weeknight meals.

You Don't Have to Cook Everything

Don't feel like you have to cook all of your food items from scratch. There are certain items that your family might like to enjoy on a rare occasion. It is okay to buy store-bought. However, for items your family uses on a regular basis or for products that are full of GMO's and other unhealthy ingredients, I suggest making them from scratch.

Check out this recipe for Rosemary Bread.

Trust Your Source

Pinterest is full of great ideas but a lot of the time that is all they are, ideas! If you are new to cooking from scratch feel free to search Pinterest for inspiration but I suggest going to trusted recipe sites for the actual recipe. You would not want to waste time or money on a recipe that doesn't work.

Learn 6 tips for making freezer meals a success!

Compare the Price

Don't be afraid to compare prices against store-bought and homemade. If you can score spaghetti noodles on a great sale, then by all means don't feel like you have to make them from scratch. Focus on making items that save you money, time and are healthier for your family. Cream of soups, taco seasoning and bread are just a few of the items that are typically cheaper and healthier from scratch.

Make this easy Turkey & Noodle Soup and gift it if you want too!

Get Creative 

Once you get used to cooking from scratch, start getting creative. Think of all the things your family eats and start finding homemade alternatives. I have provided a list below of 50 items you can cook from scratch, but this really is just a small list in comparison to what you can make. All of those boxed foods on the market are also great to recreate from scratch.

We will have several homemade recipes for many of these items coming in the upcoming weeks too!

Find MORE Recipes HERE

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Menu planning can be a useful tool for anyone looking to save time and money, eat healthier, and reduce food waste. By planning out your meals in advance, you can make sure to have all the ingredients on hand, avoid last minute trips to the grocery store, and avoid making impulse purchases or ordering takeout.

Here are some tips for creating a successful menu plan:

Start by creating a list of your favorite meals. This can include meals that you already know how to make, as well as recipes that you want to try. You can also include meals that you can make with ingredients that you already have on hand.

Consider the time of day that you will be eating each meal. For example, breakfast meals may be different from lunch or dinner meals. You may also want to plan for snacks, if you tend to get hungry between meals.

Think about the nutritional value of each meal. While it's okay to include some indulgent meals in your menu plan, it's important to make sure that you are eating a balanced diet overall. Look for meals that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Consider any dietary restrictions or food allergies that you or your family members may have. Be sure to include meals that are suitable for these restrictions, and make a note of any substitutions that you will need to make.

Once you have a list of potential meals, create a weekly or monthly menu plan. This can be as simple as writing out the meals on a piece of paper or using a spreadsheet or online tool. Be sure to include the ingredients that you will need for each meal, as well as the day and time that you will be eating it.

Take advantage of leftovers. If you have extra food from one meal, consider using it as the base for a new meal. For example, if you have leftover grilled chicken, you could use it to make a chicken salad for lunch the next day.

Plan for flexibility. It's okay to deviate from your menu plan if something comes up. For example, if you end up eating out with friends one night, you can simply move the planned meal to another day.

Use your menu plan to create a grocery list. Be sure to check your pantry, fridge, and freezer before making your list to avoid buying ingredients that you already have on hand.

When shopping for groceries, stick to your list as much as possible. This will help you avoid making impulse purchases and sticking to your budget.

Finally, be sure to adjust your menu plan as needed. If you find that you are not enjoying a particular meal, or if you are running low on time one day, feel free to make changes to your plan.

By following these tips, you can create a successful menu plan that will help you save time and money, eat healthier, and reduce food waste. Whether you are a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who wants to eat better, menu planning can be a valuable tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning how to menu plan can be overwhelming (it doesn’t have to be) and I know you have questions, so I want to answer the most asked ones for you from the start.

Why should I menu plan? 

Menu planning can help save time and money, eat healthier, and reduce food waste. By planning out your meals in advance, you can make sure to have all the ingredients on hand, avoid last minute trips to the grocery store, and avoid making impulse purchases at the grocery store or ordering takeout because you don’t have a plan.

How do I create a menu plan?
To create a menu plan, start by making a list of your favorite meals. This step will help you have a “index of meals” to choose from each week. They can be easy to make, slow cooker, instant pot meals, etc. What matters most is that you and your family enjoy these meals. You can also separate them out by protein or how they are cooked (instant pot, slow cooker, one pot, etc) if you would like as well. 

Next, consider the time of day that you will be eating each meal. This helps you know what you are planning, such as breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, etc.. If the nutritional value of each meal is your focus, this allows you to base meals on that as well. Always be sure to consider any dietary restrictions or food allergies for your family too. 

Lastly, you aren’t tied down to only creating a weekly meal plan, you can do a monthly menu plan also. Creating a monthly meal plan is especially great for busy families or those that make freezer meals ahead of time. 

How do I make a grocery list? 

Once you have a menu plan, use it to create a grocery list. Be sure to check your pantry, fridge, and freezer before making your list to avoid buying ingredients that you already have on hand. When shopping for groceries, stick to your list as much as possible to avoid making impulse purchases.

If you struggle with impulse buying while walking around the store, consider ordering online through your local grocery store and scheduling a pick up or delivery option. Years ago, I did this to help trim our grocery budget and it worked perfectly. Our grocery bill went down so much because I wasn’t wandering the aisles and impulse buying items that we didn’t necessarily need that week.

What if I need to make changes to my menu plan?
It's okay to make changes to your menu plan if something comes up. For example, if you end up eating out with friends one night, you can simply move the planned meal to another day. 

The biggest take away for this is to not make a habit of it, especially if you are looking for ways to keep your grocery budget in check. Constantly shifting meals can lead to wasted ingredients and even extra trips to the store. Give yourself grace when life happens, but aim to stick to your plan as closely as possible so you can stay on track with both your time and your budget.

Be sure to pin these tips for later!

The post How to Meal Plan for Beginners appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

This faux potato salad recipe is a staple in our house. Whether you're on a health journey or not, this cauliflower side dish is amazing to enjoy on a weekly rotation or with friends at your next gathering. The recipe comes together in minutes, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights, but it’s delicious enough to feel like a treat at any cookout or potluck. It has all the classic flavors of traditional potato salad—creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of crunch—without the heavy carbs. Even the non-keto crowd will be asking for seconds!

How To Make Low Carb Cauliflower “Potato” Salad From Scratch

The ingredients and directions listed below walk you through making this amazing cauliflower “potato” salad recipe. This is just a reminder that you don't have to give up your favorite meals and side dishes on your journey…there are so many substitutes you can use!

This recipe will makes 6 servings. If you need extra, simply double or triple the recipe to enjoy this amazing low carb side dish tonight.

Low Carb Cauliflower “Potato” Salad Ingredients:

• 1 large Head of Cauliflower
• ½ cup Sweet Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Celery Stalk, finely chopped
• 4 boiled Eggs, chopped small
• ¼ cup Dill Pickle Relish
• ½ cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Yellow Mustard
• Himalayan Pink Salt and Pepper
• Paprika for garnish

Low Carb Cauliflower “Potato” Salad Instructions:

1. Chop Cauliflower into small bite-size pieces. Place an inch of water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Add the Cauliflower and cook for 8-10 minutes. Turn off heat. Drain Cauliflower and return to pot. Sprinkle the cooked Cauliflower with Pink Salt, then add the chopped Egg, Onion and Celery.
2. In a small bowl, combine Dill Pickle Relish, Mayonnaise, Yellow Mustard, and a sprinkle of Salt and Pepper. Pour the mixture over the Cauliflower and toss to completely coat.
3. Pour the Cauliflower salad into serving bowl and garnish with paprika if desired.
4. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Total: 35 minutes

Cauliflower Potato Salad – Easy Low Carb Recipe

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Want to learn how to make a healthy yet tasty cauliflower potato salad? Follow this simple salad recipe that can be paired with lunch, dinner, or even to snack on!

• Author: Savings Lifestyle Team

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower
• ½ cup sweet onion, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 4 boiled eggs, chopped small
• ¼ cup dill pickle relish
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• Himalayan pink salt and pepper
• Paprika for garnish

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Instructions

1. Chop cauliflower into small bite-size pieces. Place an inch of water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Add the cauliflower and cook for 8-10 minutes. Turn off heat. Drain cauliflower and return to pot. Sprinkle the cooked cauliflower with pink salt, then add the chopped egg, onion and celery.
2. In a small bowl, combine dill pickle relish, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the cauliflower and toss to completely coat. 
3. Pour the cauliflower salad into a serving bowl and garnish with paprika if desired.
4. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

More Low Carb Recipes To Try:

• Breakfast Casserole
• Parmesan Crisps Recipe
• Stuffed Chicken Cheesy Keto Lasagna Bake
• Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

The post Cauliflower Potato Salad – Easy Low Carb Recipe appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

If you need an easy, no bake dessert that’s perfect for warmer weather (or any time you don’t feel like turning on the oven), this Strawberry Icebox Cake is just what you need in your life. With just three ingredients and a few minutes to layer this cake together, the fridge does the rest of the work for you!

With fresh strawberries, fluffy Cool Whip, and graham crackers that soften into cake like layers, this treat is light, creamy, and refreshing. It’s great for potlucks, parties, or a make ahead family dessert. Trust me…everyone will love this one!

Strawberry Icebox Cake Ingredients

• 2 8 oz. containers Cool Whip, thawed
• 1 1/2 lbs. Strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 1/2 packs Graham Crackers

Strawberry Icebox Cake Instructions:

1. Spread a 1/2 container of whipped topping in a layer on the bottom of an 8×8″ pan.
2. Add a layer of Graham Crackers, breaking as necessary to cover whipped topping.
3. Top with another 1/2 container of whipped topping and smooth with a spatula.
4. Add 1/3 of the Strawberries in an even layer.
5. Then Graham Crackers, whipped topping, Strawberries, Graham Crackers, whipped topping and Strawberries.
6. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.

Money Saving Tip: Stock up on strawberries when they’re on sale and freeze them (just make sure they’re fully thawed and drained before using in this recipe).

This is a classic no fuss dessert that’s always a hit! Anytime I make this, at least 2 people ask for the recipe. So be ready to share it too!

Strawberry Icebox Cake

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Strawberry Icebox Cake

• Author: Savings Lifestyle: Andrea

Ingredients

• 2 8 oz. containers Cool Whip, thawed
• 1 1/2 lbs. Strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 1/2 packs Graham Crackers

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Instructions

1. Spread a 1/2 container of whipped topping in a layer on the bottom of an 8×8″ pan.
2. Add a layer of Graham Crackers, breaking as necessary to cover whipped topping.
3. Top with another 1/2 container of whipped topping and smooth with a spatula.
4. Add 1/3 of the Strawberries in an even layer.
5. Then Graham Crackers, whipped topping, Strawberries, Graham Crackers, whipped topping and Strawberries.
6. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.

Other Easy DIY Desserts:

• Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Shake
• Harvest Apple Cake Recipe
• Firecracker Fruit ‘n Yogurt Pop
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe
• Panna Cotta with Strawberry Puree

Disclosure: This post contains a link to an affiliate and support this site. See my Disclaimer Policy for additional information.

The post Strawberry Icebox Cake appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Use up all those berries that are in season and make this delicious, easy and beautiful trifle! This would be perfect for upcoming July 4th celebrations!

Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle Ingredients

• 1 lb, Strawberries
• 6 oz, Blueberries
• 8 oz, Pound Cake
• Homemade Whipped Cream

Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle Directions

1. Cut pound cake into slices.
2. Find a glass about the size of your trifle glass and cut 4 circles and insert in bottom of trifle glasses.
3. Wash trim and slice strawberries (reserve 4 strawberries for tops).
4. Wash blueberries.
5. Place a layer of strawberry slices on top of each.
6. Top strawberries with whipped cream and level it off.
7. Gently place a ring of blueberries around glass.
8. Place a strawberry in each center and serve.

Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle

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Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle Recipe

• Author: Savings Lifestyle: Andrea

Ingredients

• 1 lb, Strawberries
• 6 oz, Blueberries
• 8 oz, Pound Cake
• Homemade Whipped Cream

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Instructions

1. Cut pound cake into slices.
2. Find a glass about the size of your trifle glass and cut 4 circles and insert in bottom of trifle glasses.
3. Wash trim and slice strawberries (reserve 4 strawberries for tops).
4. Wash blueberries.
5. Place a layer of strawberry slices on top of each.
6. Top strawberries with whipped cream and level it off.
7. Gently place a ring of blueberries around glass.
8. Place a stawberry in each center and serve.

Other DIY Recipes

• DIY Microwave Popcorn ~ Cheaper and Healthy
• How To Make Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
• Harvest Apple Cake Recipe

Disclosure: This post contains a link to an affiliate and support this site. See my Disclaimer Policy for additional information.

The post Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Red, White, and mmm…. These tasty, inexpensive treats for the 4th of July not only taste good but they are good for you! Fresh, sweet berries are high in vitamin c and antioxidants while the deliciously tart Greek yogurt contains more protein and less fat than American style yogurt.

Get the kids involved and let them create their own piece of patriotic artwork, and feel good knowing what’s going into their little bodies. Shop these fruits in season to maximize your savings.

Firecracker Fruit ‘n Yogurt Pop Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cup plain Greek Yogurt
• ¼ cup + 1 Tbsp. Granulated Sugar
• 1 ¼ cup roughly chopped Strawberries
• 1 ¼ cup Blueberries
• 1 tsp. of Vanilla Extract
•  8 Dixie Cups or Popsicle Molds (we own these).

Firecracker Fruit ‘n Yogurt Pop Directions

{Step 1} Begin by roughly chopping strawberries in a food processor or chopper.

{Step 2} Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. sugar over strawberries, set aside and allow to macerate (break down). Next, roughly chop blueberries, set aside.

{Step 3} Mix yogurt, remaining sugar and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.

{Step 4} Begin by spooning a small dollop of yogurt into cup. Alternate fruit and yogurt until cup is full.

{Step 5} Pop in a plastic spoon or popsicle stick and freeze for 3-4 hours.

Remove from freezer and gently squeeze, and pull from cup. This will make 8 servings.

Experiment with various flavor combinations such as: almond extract and peaches, chocolate extract and strawberries, coconut extract and mango, or orange extract and bananas.

Firecracker Fruit ‘n Yogurt Pop

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Make a patriotic treat with these Firecracker Fruit ‘n Yogurt Pops!

• Author: Savings Lifestyle: Andrea

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cup plain Greek Yogurt
• ¼ cup + 1 Tbsp. Granulated Sugar
• 1 ¼ cup roughly chopped Strawberries
• 1 ¼ cup Blueberries
• 1 tsp. of Vanilla Extract
•  8 Dixie Cups or Popsicle Molds (we own these).

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Instructions

1. Begin by roughly chopping strawberries in a food processor or chopper.
2. Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. sugar over strawberries, set aside and allow to macerate (break down). Next, roughly chop blueberries, set aside.
3. Mix yogurt, remaining sugar and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
4. Begin by spooning a small dollop of yogurt into cup. Alternate fruit and yogurt until cup is full.
5. Pop in a plastic spoon or popsicle stick and freeze for 3-4 hours.

The post Firecracker Fruit ‘n Yogurt Pop appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

We all know that budgeting is an essential financial planning tool that can help us take control of our money and reach the financial goals that we have set for ourselves. By creating a budget, it allows you to track your income and expenses so you can easily identify where you are overspending and make adjustments where they are needed. 

What is a Budget? Why Is It Important?

A budget creates a pathway for you to take control of your finances. Call it a financial plan. By creating a budget, you can track income and expenses over a specific period of time (typically one month). This allows you to see where your money is going and how you are spending it. It also shows you what you make each month so you can make sure you have enough to cover your expenses while also saving for the future. When you are looking over these income and expenses, you can easily find ways to make changes to your budget so you can improve your financial situation. 

What is the 50/30/20 Rule?

There are different ways to create a budget, with the most common being the “50/30/20” rule. This rule breaks down to spending no more than 50% of your after tax income on the essentials like, housing, food and transportation. The next 30% is used for non-essential expenses like entertainment and eating out. The remaining 20% is then used to save or invest for the future. 

If the 50/30/20 rule sounds like something you want to do, follow these steps: 

1. Gather all your financial information, including pay stubs, bank and credit card statements and bills.
2. Calculate your “after tax” income by subtracting any taxes and deductions from your gross income.
3. First you need to figure out your essential expenses by listing out all the things you pay for each month. These will include, rent or mortgage payments, insurance premiums, utilities, groceries, and transportation costs. Transportation includes car payments, gas/diesel/EV charging, maintenance, and car insurance. Add all of these items up to determine your total “essential expenses” amount. 
4. Next, calculate your non-essential expenses by making a list. These items will include things like entertainment, dining out, and shopping. Add all of these items up to determine your total “non-essential expenses” amount. 
5. To figure out how much you can save or invest each month, subtract your total essential and non-essential expenses from your “after tax” income. This amount should be 20% of your income. 
6. Lastly, create a budget that divides your income between essential needs, non-essential spending, and savings or investments. You can also use a budgeting spreadsheet or budgeting app like Dave Ramsey’s EveryDollar, YNAB (You Need A Budget), or GoodBudget. We will go into more detail later. If you have a lot of subscriptions, you can use Rocket Money for free to find those subscriptions and determine which ones you want or need to cancel.

After you have created your budget, it is very important to stick to it and make any adjustments as they are needed. You might find that you need to cut back on some expenses and find ways to increase your income in order to reach your savings goals.

Looking for more tips to help you successfully manage your budget?

Set financial goals. This can be things like saving for a down payment on home or paying off credit card debt. Having these goals set will help you stay motivated and on track. 

Be realistic. Setting unrealistic goals will only set you back. Don’t overestimate your income or expenses as this can lead to living outside your means and more financial problems in the future. 

Review your budget regularly. This should be done at least once a month so you can make sure you are on track and making progress towards your goals. 

Be prepared. Understand that unexpected expenses are going to happen, such as car repairs or medical bills. When you are making your budget, set aside a small amount each month for emergency savings so you don’t get caught off guard. 

By following these steps and staying committed to your budget, you can improve your financial health and achieve you goals.

More Budgeting Tips & Ideas

• Monthly Budget Ideas: Template and Strategies to Stay on Track
• Free Budget Spreadsheet
• Cash Budgeting and the Envelope System Explained
• Cash Budget: Format and Example including a Hybrid Approach

The post Budgeting 101: How to Use the 50/30/20 Rule appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Spring has officially sprung! If you are growing basil, thyme, mint, or all the above, these DIY garden plant markers are a cute and creative way to label your herb garden plants! They’re colorful, handmade, practical and just the right touch of personality to brighten up any garden space.

I love a craft idea that looks good and serves a purpose, and these herb garden plant markers are just that! They are also a great gift idea for plant lovers or an easy weekend craft to use in your own garden!

This sublimation project is brought to you by Jennifer at Colorisse, your go-to source for dtf and sublimation supplies. At Colorisse, we want to help you make creativity visible. Whether you're a brand new crafter or experienced maker eager to explore the world of DTF printing for the first time, Colorisse is here for you. We’re not just a brand that offers DTF printers and supplies — we’re part of the crafting community.

So what are you waiting for? Let's get crafty and learn how to make your own sublimation herb garden plant markers step by step.

Supplies You’ll Need

Before you start, gather your supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Herb Garden Plant Marker File
• Unfinished Wood Round Coasters
• Large Popsicle Sticks (the jumbo kind works best)
• Sublimation Printer
• Sublimation Paper
• Heat Press
• Heat Resistant Thermal Tape
• Teflon Sheet
• Hot Glue Gun
• Glue Sticks
• E6000 Glue or another strong adhesive (optional but helpful)

If you’re already into sublimation, you probably have most of this stuff on hand. If not, Colorisse has you covered with supplies to get started.

How to Make Sublimation Herb Garden Plant Markers

1. Print Your Design

Start by printing your herb garden marker designs using your sublimation printer. Make sure you mirror the images before printing.

2. Cut Out the Labels

Once printed, cut out each label individually. A simple paper trimmer or scissors will work just fine.

3. Tape the Design to the Wood Round

Next, tape the design face up (printed side towards you) onto each unfinished wood round. Use heat resistant thermal tape to secure the edges. The tape helps keep the design from shifting during pressing and ensures you get a clean transfer.

Tip: Try to center your design so it looks balanced once it’s pressed and mounted.

4. Press the Design

Set your heat press to 330°F and let it fully heat up. Place the taped wood rounds onto the heat press with the paper side facing up. Cover with a teflon sheet to protect your heat press from any potential ink transfer.

Press each piece for 40-60 seconds using medium to firm pressure. Consistent heat and pressure help the ink sublimate properly into the wood surface.

5. Peel and Reveal

Carefully peel off the sublimation paper while the wood is still warm. Seeing the design transferred onto the coaster is always so satisfying!

You’ll notice the colors are more vibrant and crisp once the heat has done its thing. Let each wood round cool before moving on to the next step.

6. Attach to Popsicle Sticks

Now it’s time to turn your coasters into garden plant markers. Use a hot glue gun to attach each sublimated wood round to the top of a large popsicle stick.

For a stronger hold (especially if these will be outdoors) add a little E6000 or your favorite multipurpose glue in addition to the hot glue. This combo gives you an instant bond plus long-term durability.

7. Let Them Dry and You’re Done!

Let everything dry completely before sticking them into your herb garden or gifting them. Once the glue has fully dried, your markers are ready to brighten up any garden bed, planter box, or pot on your windowsill.

Bonus Tip

Seal It (Optional): If your herb markers will be outdoors and exposed to the elements, consider using a UV-protective sealer to help preserve the design. A light spray will go a long way in keeping the colors from fading and your project looking great for a long time.

Whether you’re just getting into sublimation or looking for your next project, these DIY herb garden plant markers are a great way to mix creativity with functionality. Plus, they add a colorful pop to your gardening space.

You don’t need to be a master gardener (or even a master crafter) to make these. Just a little patience, some great designs, and a love for plants.

Ready to Try It?

Grab the sublimation diy plant marker file above, some blank wood coasters, and your favorite herbs, and give it a try!

Jennifer creates crafts and inspiration at Colorisse. For DTF printing project ideas, check out their blog.

Happy crafting and happy planting!

More Craft Ideas

• How to Print Shirts at Home with an Iron and Printer
• Crafts to Make and Sell for Profit: 200+ Craft Ideas!
• Crafts to Make and Sell: Best Ways to Make Money with Crafts
• DIY Scrunchies

How to Make Herb Garden Plant Markers with Sublimation

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If you're looking for a fun craft idea to put your sublimation printer to work, these herb garden plant markers are for you and perfect for spring gardening too!

Ingredients

• Herb Garden Plant Marker File
• Unfinished Wood Round Coasters
• Large Popsicle Sticks (the jumbo kind works best)
• Sublimation Printer
• Sublimation Paper
• Heat Press
• Heat Resistant Thermal Tape
• Teflon Sheet
• Hot Glue Gun
• Glue Sticks
• E6000 Glue or another strong adhesive (optional but helpful)

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Instructions

1. Print your herb marker designs using your sublimation printer.
2. Cut out each label individually.
3. Tape each design face up onto a wood round using heat resistant tape.
4. Place the taped wood rounds onto your heat press and cover with a teflon sheet.
5. Press at 330°F for 40–60 seconds with medium to firm pressure.
6. Carefully peel off the paper while still warm.
7. Use hot glue to attach the wood round to a popsicle stick.

Notes

Tip: For extra durability, use a bit of E6000 (or similar multipurpose) glue along with the hot glue.

Seal It (Optional): If your herb markers will be outdoors and exposed to the elements, consider using a UV-protective sealer to help preserve the design. A light spray will go a long way in keeping the colors from fading and your project looking great for a long time.

The post How to Make Herb Garden Plant Markers with Sublimation appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Let me show you a fun and different way to color Easter Eggs.  Get the kids involved.  It takes no more time than if you were coloring your eggs the traditional way.

Rock Easter Eggs Materials

• Hard Boiled Eggs
• Cups
• Olive oil
• Fork
• Food Coloring

Directions for Assembly

1. Pour some warm water in cups (depending on how many colors you want to make).
2. Add a few drops of food coloring to each cup (more if you want a darker egg).
3. Carefully drop an egg into each cup and leave it there until the desired color is achieved (may take a few minutes on each one).
4. Carefully lift them out using the fork and place on a paper towel to drain.
5. When all your eggs have been colored, add 1 tablespoon of oil to each cup of colored water and stir gently with the fork.
6. Take you dried colored eggs and drop them gently into a cup with a different color than your egg.  Gently roll around in the cup for a few seconds and then lift out and place on a clean paper towel.
7. Gently blot each egg with a clean paper towel.   Finish the rest of your eggs this way.

You now have a beautiful bounty of eggs that look like rocks.  Not your usual Easter Eggs!

Making “Rock” Easter Eggs

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Making “Rock” Easter Eggs

• Author: Savings Lifestyle: Andrea

Ingredients

• Hard Boiled Eggs
• Cups
• Olive oil
• Fork
• Food Coloring

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Instructions

1. Pour some warm water in cups (depending on how many colors you want to make).
2. Add a few drops of food coloring to each cup (more if you want a darker egg).
3. Carefully drop an egg into each cup and leave it there until the desired color is achieved (may take a few minutes on each one).
4. Carefully lift them out using the fork and place on a paper towel to drain.
5. When all your eggs have been colored, add 1 tablespoon of oil to each cup of colored water and stir gently with the fork.
6. Take you dried colored eggs and drop them gently into a cup with a different color than your egg.  Gently roll around in the cup for a few seconds and then lift out and place on a clean paper towel.
7. Gently blot each egg with a clean paper towel.   Finish the rest of your eggs this way.

The post Making “Rock” Easter Eggs appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.

Here are two projects that you can make with you kids.  The first one will be for the kids, and with the leftover items you can make one for yourself.

Kids Easter Basket Necessary Items

• Glue Gun
• Fiber Pot (bought at any garden center)
• Jelly Beans
• Pipe Cleaners
• Easter Grass or Raffia
• Fake Animal Decoration

Assembly Instructions

Depending on how old the kids are, parents may need to use the glue gun for this project.

{Step 1} Punch a small hole on either side of the fiber pot.  Push one end of a pipe cleaner through and twist it around on the other side.  Do this to the other side forming a handle.
{Step 2} Spread a little hot glue around the top of the fiber pot and have kids place their jelly beans in a row on the glue.

{Step 3} Continue to have kids place their jelly beans around the pot until it is completely covered.  Add candy and small treats and let the kids have them.

Now a basket for the grownups. Just to add a little Easter cheer to your home.

Assembly Instructions

{Step 1} Punch a small hole on either side of your fiber pot and place a pipe cleaner in and twist on both sides to form handle.

{Step 2} Place a small bead of hot glue around the top of the fiber pots and wrap a piece of ribbon around the top covering the glue.

{Step 3} Add Easter grass or raffia and place candy, eggs or animals in the basket and set it on the table.

Remember to refill both often!

Kids Easter Basket Projects

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Kids Easter Basket Projects

• Author: Savings Lifestyle: Andrea

Ingredients

• Glue Gun
• Fiber Pot (bought at any garden center)
• Jelly Beans
• Pipe Cleaners
• Easter Grass or Raffia
• Fake Animal Decoration

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Instructions

Assembly Instructions

Depending on how old the kids are, parents may need to use the glue gun for this project.

1. Punch a small hole on either side of the fiber pot.  Push one end of a pipe cleaner through and twist it around on the other side.  Do this to the other side forming a handle.
2. Spread a little hot glue around the top of the fiber pot and have kids place their jelly beans in a row on the glue.
3. Continue to have kids place their jelly beans around the pot until it is completely covered.  Add candy and small treats and let the kids have them.

Now a basket for the grownups. Just to add a little Easter cheer to your home.

Assembly Instructions

1. Punch a small hole on either side of your fiber pot and place a pipe cleaner in and twist on both sides to form handle.
2. Place a small bead of hot glue around the top of the fiber pots and wrap a piece of ribbon around the top covering the glue.
3. Add Easter grass or raffia and place candy, eggs or animals in the basket and set it on the table.

The post Kids Easter Basket Projects appeared first on Savings Lifestyle.