You’ll find classic peanut butter blossoms alongside peppermint, cherry, and chocolate versions, so there’s something for everyone on your list. Bake a batch for a cookie exchange, a teacher gift, or the plate you set out on Christmas Eve for Santa. Fair warning, you’ll probably end up unwrapping another bag.

Sugar Cookie Blossoms

Soft sugar cookies get a Hershey’s Sugar Cookie Kiss pressed into the center, making them a fun addition to a cookie tray. Kids can help unwrap the Kisses and add them after baking.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cookie Blossoms

Chocolate Kiss Cookies

These soft chocolate cookies have a Hershey’s Kiss on top for an extra hit of chocolate. They’re easy to make in batches when you need cookies to share.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Chocolate Mint Kiss Cookies

Fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies pair with mint Hershey’s Kisses in this batch. The powdered sugar coating makes them stand out on a cookie plate without extra decorating.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Mint Kiss Cookies

Secret Kiss Cookies

Each powdered sugar-covered cookie hides a chocolate Kiss inside. Wrapping the dough around the candy takes a little hands-on time, but the snowball look needs no further decoration.
Get the Recipe: Secret Kiss Cookies

Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Rich brownie cookies get a peppermint Kiss on top for a chocolate-and-mint addition to your cookie lineup. Their fudgy centers make them a good pick for anyone who likes a softer cookie.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut butter blossoms put a chocolate Kiss at the center of a soft peanut butter cookie. They’re straightforward to make, and kids can help press the Kisses into place.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Blossoms

Toffee Cookies

Buttery toffee cookies meet smooth Hershey’s Kisses in this easy batch. The caramel notes make them a change from standard chocolate cookies on a sharing plate.
Get the Recipe: Toffee Cookies

Air Fryer Kiss Cookies

These sugar-coated cookies bake in the air fryer and get a chocolate Kiss on top. The peanut-free dough makes them a handy choice when you want to make a small batch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kiss Cookies

Chocolate Cherry Blossoms

Cherry-flavored cookies topped with chocolate Kisses bring a different flavor to the blossom cookie lineup. Their pink color also adds variety to a plate of cookies for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cherry Blossoms

The post 9 Hershey Kiss Cookies for Your Christmas Cookie Tray appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Many come with decorating jobs kids can take on themselves, like adding sprinkles, pressing on candy eyes, or drizzling frosting. That keeps their hands busy and gives them something to be proud of when the tray goes in. Before you start, check whether your school asks for store-bought or nut-free treats so nothing gets sent back.

White Chocolate Popcorn

Popcorn, pretzels, pecans, and M&Ms get a drizzle of white chocolate for a sweet-and-salty snack kids can help mix. Portion it into bags for class parties or small gifts.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Popcorn

Rice Krispie Wreaths

Kids can shape these cereal treats into wreaths and add their own decorations. Make a batch ahead for a class party and pack them once they’ve set.
Get the Recipe: Rice Krispie Wreaths

White Chocolate Dipped Sugar Wafers

Dip sugar wafers in white chocolate, then let the kids add sprinkles before the coating sets. There’s no baking involved, and the finished wafers are easy to pack for a classroom treat.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Dipped Sugar Wafers

Sugar Cookie Bars

Bake one pan of soft sugar cookie bars instead of scooping individual cookies. Frost, add sprinkles, and cut them into squares for a class-party tray.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cookie Bars

Christmas Tree Meringues

These crisp little trees make a fun addition to a Christmas treat table. Pipe the meringue into tree shapes, bake them, and let kids help with the decorations.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Meringues

Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs

Marshmallow frosting and candy cane handles make these cupcakes look like little mugs of cocoa. They’re a fun choice for a kids’ party when you want each guest to have their own dessert.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs

Hot Chocolate Cookies

Hot cocoa mix, chocolate chips, and marshmallows give these cookies the flavors kids know from their favorite winter drink. Bake a batch for a class party or a cookie tray at home.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies

Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Soft chocolate cookies with a candy kiss on top are easy for kids to recognize and grab from a party tray. Little helpers can unwrap the kisses while you get the cookies ready.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Oreo Reindeer Cookies

Dip Oreos in chocolate, then add pretzel antlers, candy eyes, and red noses. Kids can help assemble the reindeer, and there’s no cookie dough to make.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Reindeer Cookies

Christmas Magic Bars

A graham cracker crust holds layers of chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, and red and green M&Ms. Bake them in one pan, then cut them into squares for a Christmas class party.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Magic Bars

Rice Krispie Christmas trees

Shape cereal treats into little Christmas trees and let kids add the decorations. They’re easy to make ahead and small enough to serve at a class party.
Get the Recipe: Rice Krispie Christmas trees

Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

Roll soft cookie dough in colorful sprinkles for a batch that looks ready for a party without extra decorating. Kids can help with the sprinkles, and the cookies are easy to share.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

Polar Bear Claws

Caramel, peanuts, and white chocolate make these little candies a fun addition to a winter treat tray. Make them ahead and pack a few in each class-party treat bag.
Get the Recipe: Polar Bear Claws

Reindeer Chow

Chocolate-coated cereal, pretzels, and candy make a snack mix kids can help stir together. Scoop it into cups or bags for easy class-party portions.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Chow

Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs

These chocolate shells hide cocoa mix and marshmallows inside, making them a fun treat for kids to open in a mug of hot milk. Pack each one separately if you’re sending them as gifts or party favors.
Get the Recipe: Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs

Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Each fudgy brownie cookie gets a peppermint kiss pressed into the center. Kids can help unwrap the candies, and the finished cookies look great on a class-party plate.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

The air fryer makes a small batch of sugar cookies with crisp edges and soft centers. Let kids add frosting or sprinkles for an easy party activity.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sugar Cookies

Peppermint Bark Crackers

Dip graham crackers in milk and white chocolate, then scatter peppermint pieces on top. This no-bake treat is simple to make in batches and easy to pack for a class party.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Bark Crackers

Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

A spiced gingersnap crust gives each mini cheesecake its gingerbread flavor. Their individual size makes serving simple at a kids’ party, with no slicing needed.
Get the Recipe: Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

The post 19 Easy Christmas Treats for Kids and Class Parties appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

For years, chicken breast was my “fine” dinner. I’d cook it in a skillet, often overcook it a little, and end up with something my family ate but never loved. Nobody complained much, but nobody asked for it again either.

The air fryer changed that. Hot air circulates around the chicken, so the outside browns fast while the inside stays juicy. Flip it once halfway through and that’s it.

Chicken breast is also one of the most affordable proteins at the grocery store, and it’s lean and filling. Change the seasoning and it’s a different dinner. Paprika and garlic one night, lemon pepper the next, taco seasoning when you want to stuff it into tortillas. Leftovers slice up for salads, wraps, and lunch boxes the next day.

Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, my go-to seasoning blend, cook times for different chicken breast sizes, and easy ways to switch up the flavor. This is exactly the kind of recipe you’ll want in your weeknight rotation. It’s not fancy, and it doesn’t need to be.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Boneless Chicken Breast: If you use chicken breast cutlets instead of whole breasts, the meat will cook a little faster, which helps on busy nights.
• Oil
• Seasoning: I season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, but you can swap in a BBQ rub or an Italian seasoning mix if that’s more what you’re after.

How to Make Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Breast

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Don’t skip this. It helps the seasoning stick instead of sliding off and helps the outside brown instead of steam. Mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then brush the chicken with oil and sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides.
2. My 5.8-quart Cosori air fryer will fit about 3 full-size breasts or 4 cutlets. Cutlets are breasts cut so they are half as thick, which is why they cook faster. Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without letting any pieces touch or overlap. Air needs to move all the way around each piece, or you’ll end up with spots that stay pale and undercooked. If you’ve got more chicken than fits comfortably, cook it in batches instead of stacking it.
3. Air fry at 380 degrees F for 10 minutes, then pull the basket out and flip each piece over. Put it back in and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, until the outside is golden brown.
4. Always check doneness with a meat thermometer instead of going by time alone. A thermometer isn’t expensive, and the peace of mind it gives you is worth it.
5. Pull the chicken out of the air fryer at 160 degrees F, then let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes before slicing. That carries the chicken to the USDA-safe 165 degrees F. If you’re cooking thin cutlets, check the temperature again after resting, since they may not climb the full 5 degrees.

Serving Ideas

Boneless chicken breast goes with almost anything I already have in the fridge. My favorite way to serve it fresh out of the air fryer is next to a big scoop of broccoli salad; the crunch and vinegar go well with the plain chicken.

When I want something heartier, I’ll put it next to a pile of roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes. For a different direction, slice it up and serve it over Mexican rice. It turns one piece of chicken into a full bowl of dinner.

How to Store

Store cooked boneless chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, put it back in the air fryer at 380°F for about 5 minutes. If you’re worried about it drying out, reheat it in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth instead.

This recipe also freezes well. Let the chicken cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Here are some of the ways I use leftovers:

• Add a few pieces to a Greek salad.
• Use it on naan pizza.
• Make tacos for Taco Tuesday.
• Use it in a sandwich, wrap, or panini.
• Serve it over rice.
• Add it to tomato sauce and serve it over pasta.

Variations

This recipe is easy to adapt by changing the seasoning. Other favorites include:

• Lemon pepper seasoning
• BBQ spice rub
• Jamaican jerk seasoning
• Taco seasoning

If you’d rather season it plain and add flavor with a sauce instead, try tossing the cooked chicken in Polynesian sauce, Chick-fil-A sauce, or boom boom sauce.

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Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Juicy air fryer chicken breast in about 20 minutes with simple seasoning, golden edges, a tender center, and cook times for whole breasts and cutlets.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword boneless chicken breast, chicken breast

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 18 minutes minutes

Resting Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 28 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Calories 198kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts boneless skinless
• ½ tablespoon olive oil or oil of choice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
  2 chicken breasts
• Coat the chicken with oil and sprinkle on the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then place the breast in the air fryer basket.
  ½ tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Air fry at 380 degrees F for 15-18 minutes, flipping the pieces over once. If you use chicken cutlets, they will only need about 10-12 minutes of cooking time instead.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to verify that the internal temperature has reached at least 160 degrees F.
• Let the pieces rest on a plate for 5 minutes, which carries them to 165 degrees F, before slicing and serving. If you’re cooking thin cutlets, check the temperature again after resting.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges.

Notes

For Frozen Chicken Breast:

You can use frozen chicken as long as the pieces are frozen individually, not stuck together in a clump. Rub or spray them with oil, season, and air fry at 360 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that it has reached 165 degrees F before serving. The texture is slightly different from fresh-cooked chicken, but it still works.

Tips

• Don’t crowd the basket. I’d rather run a second batch than end up with steamed, not browned, chicken.
• Buy a meat thermometer if you don’t already own one. It’s cheap, and it’s the only thing that actually tells you the chicken is safe to eat.
• Rest the chicken on a plate for 5 minutes. Residual heat keeps cooking it after it comes out, so pulling it at 160°F lets it finish at 165°F instead of overshooting.
• If you are in a hurry, slice the breasts into cutlets before cooking. They cook faster and more evenly than a thick whole breast.
• If your breasts are uneven in size, check the thickest one first and let thinner pieces come out early if they hit temperature sooner.

Nutrition

Calories: 198kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 563mg | Potassium: 587mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 374IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe (Juicy, Not Dry) appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Store-bought pastry, a quick chocolate drizzle, cake mix, and simple decorations do most of the visual heavy lifting. That means you get a fancy-looking Christmas dessert without turning December into a marathon of mixing bowls. If you’re hosting this year, these are the recipes that let you put something pretty on the table and still have time to sit down.

Christmas Tree Meringues

These crisp meringues are piped and decorated to look like tiny trees, giving them a bakery-case finish. They use a short ingredient list and a little decorating time to create a polished dessert for a party tray.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Meringues

Cranberry Bundt Cake

A Bundt pan gives this cranberry cake a detailed shape without complicated decorating. Tart berries and orange glaze add color and flavor, while the simple batter keeps prep manageable.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bundt Cake

Biscoff Cupcakes

Cake mix and cookie butter make these cupcakes feel dressed up without starting from scratch. The gooey center and swirled frosting give each one a café-style look for dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cupcakes

Chocolate Cheesecake

This chocolate cheesecake has a dark cookie crust and a smooth filling that looks impressive once sliced. Using an Instant Pot keeps the method approachable and leaves you with a rich dessert for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cheesecake

Chocolate Lush

Neat layers of cookie crumbs, peanut butter cheesecake, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping make this dessert look carefully planned. It can be assembled ahead in one dish, making serving especially simple.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Lush

Rum Cake

A glazed rum cake looks polished straight from the Bundt pan, with no detailed icing work required. Cake mix helps the batter come together quickly, while the syrup gives every slice a special-occasion feel.
Get the Recipe: Rum Cake

Peppermint Pie

This peppermint pie has a pale pink filling and candy pieces that make it stand out on the dessert table. Since it is no-bake and can be made ahead, it is a practical choice when oven space is limited.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Pie

Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

Individual gingerbread cheesecakes look restaurant-ready thanks to their spiced cookie crusts and tidy portions. They are simple to portion, chill, and set out for guests without cutting a full cake.
Get the Recipe: Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

Christmas Bundt Cake

Swirls of red and green make this Bundt cake look far more detailed than the baking process actually is. A glossy glaze finishes the presentation, so it can take center stage with minimal decorating.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Bundt Cake

Eggnog Pie

This silky custard pie brings a polished look to the table with a clean slice and creamy filling. It comes together without special equipment and can be chilled ahead for low-stress serving.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Pie

Chocolate Mousse Cake

This layered chocolate cake has mousse and fudge frosting that give it the look of a bakery dessert. Each component is straightforward, and the finished slices make a big impression at a gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Mousse Cake

Raspberry Tiramisu

Bright raspberry sauce, mascarpone cream, and white chocolate create striking layers in this no-bake tiramisu. It feels a little more refined than a standard trifle, yet it can be assembled ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Tiramisu

Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs

Candy cane handles turn simple cupcakes into tiny cocoa mugs that get plenty of attention on a dessert tray. Marshmallow frosting adds the finishing touch, and the decorating is easy enough for a casual baking day.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs

Red Velvet Cheesecake

Red-and-white swirls give this no-bake cheesecake a dramatic finish with very little hands-on work. A chocolate cookie crust adds contrast, and chilling does most of the work before serving.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cheesecake

Christmas Tree Pies

Store-bought crust helps these cranberry orange hand pies come together fast, while the tree shape makes them look carefully crafted. Their individual size makes them easy to serve at parties or package for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Pies

Tiramisu Trifle

Tiramisu Trifle. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Clear trifle layers show off coffee-and-rum soaked cake and mascarpone cream for a polished presentation. There is no baking involved, and the dessert can be made in advance for easy serving.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Trifle

Black Tie Mousse Cake

Chocolate cake, cheesecake, mousse, and ganache create four clear layers that look like they came from a restaurant case. Breaking the process into simple steps makes this dramatic dessert more manageable at home.
Get the Recipe: Black Tie Mousse Cake

Candy Cane Dessert Minis

These small candy cane desserts look festive with colorful crushed candy on top, despite using only three ingredients. They are quick to assemble, chill well, and work nicely when you need several individual portions.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Dessert Minis

Peppermint Brownies

Dark chocolate brownies topped with peppermint make a bold, polished addition to any dessert spread. The recipe keeps the process simple, and clean squares are easy to arrange on a platter.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Brownies

The post 19 Easy Christmas Desserts That Look Fancy but Aren’t appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

You’ll find family-friendly mainsand a few options that stretch for a bigger group if you’re hosting. Pick one or two, keep the rest of the night low-key, and save your energy for the parts of Christmas Eve that actually matter. Dinner gets done, and you get to sit down with your family.

Baked Tortellini

Sausage, marinara, and melted cheese turn tortellini into a family dinner with little prep. It bakes in one dish, leaving more time for everything else happening that evening.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tortellini

Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Cheesy garlic biscuits make this chicken pot pie feel like a special dinner without adding much work. The creamy filling feeds the family, and there’s no pie crust to roll out.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Baked Manicotti

Cheese-stuffed pasta shells bake under ground beef and marinara for a hearty family meal. Assemble the dish ahead of time, then put it in the oven when dinner gets close.
Get the Recipe: Baked Manicotti

Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Let the slow cooker handle this ziti with sausage, marinara, and creamy cheese. It’s a handy choice when the family needs dinner but the evening is already packed.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Slow Cooker Scalloped Ham and Potatoes

Ham and creamy potatoes cook together in the slow cooker, so you can leave the oven free for other plans. Serve it as a filling family dinner with little last-minute work.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Scalloped Ham and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Pork Loin

Bacon-wrapped pork loin looks right at home at a family gathering, yet the slow cooker does most of the work. Slice it when everyone’s ready to eat and add your favorite sides.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin

Slow Cooker Cranberry Pot Roast

Cranberries give this slow-cooked beef a tart note that fits a special family dinner. Start it earlier in the day, and the main dish will be ready when evening plans pick up.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cranberry Pot Roast

Seafood Pasta

Shrimp, scallops, and calamari cook in a light tomato sauce with garlic and cherry tomatoes. This pasta is ready in about 30 minutes, making it a good pick for a family dinner that still feels like an occasion.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta

Crock Pot Spiral Ham

Peach preserves, honey, and red pepper flakes add sweetness and a little heat to this spiral ham. The slow cooker keeps the main dish simple when you’re feeding the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Spiral Ham

Chicken Parm Casserole

Chicken, marinara, and melted cheese bring the familiar flavors of chicken parmesan to an easy casserole. Make it for a family dinner when you’d rather skip cooking individual portions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parm Casserole

Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Roast

Chicken thighs, vegetables, and gravy cook together for a complete family dinner. With minimal prep, this slow cooker meal leaves your evening open for other plans.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Roast

Stuffed Shells

Jumbo shells packed with sausage, spinach, and cheese bake in tomato sauce for a hearty family meal. You can assemble them ahead, so dinner takes less attention later.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells

Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil

Shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn make this a fun dinner to share with the family. The slow cooker skips the giant pot and keeps cleanup manageable on a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil

Air Fryer Crab Cakes

These Maryland-style crab cakes have a crisp outside and plenty of lump crab meat. The air fryer makes them a quick main dish when you want dinner to feel a little special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crab Cakes

Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Short ribs cook until tender in a rich sauce while you get on with the rest of the day. They make a family dinner that feels like an occasion without much hands-on time.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Lasagna Soup

This slow cooker soup brings pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese together in one hearty bowl. It’s an easy way to feed the family when layering a full lasagna isn’t on the agenda.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Soup

Air Fryer Scallops

Lemon pepper and a light breading give these scallops a crisp bite. They cook in minutes in the air fryer, leaving plenty of time to finish the rest of the family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Scallops

Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork

Tart cranberries add a bright note to juicy slow-cooked pork. It’s an easy main dish for a family gathering, especially when you want to prep dinner early.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

The slow cooker handles the beef for this creamy stroganoff while you focus on the rest of the evening. Serve it over noodles for a family dinner that’s easy to bring to the table.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Swedish Meatballs

Tender meatballs in creamy gravy make a family dinner that’s easy to serve to a crowd. Pair them with noodles or mashed potatoes and let everyone help themselves.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs

The post 20 Easy Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas for the Whole Family appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

I love baking, but sometimes I look at a recipe with a long list of ingredients and decide I am way too tired for that. Pumpkin bread can be one of those recipes, especially on a busy fall weeknight. This version fixes that.

Bisquick is the shortcut that makes this recipe work. It already has the flour, leavening and salt mixed in, so you skip the measuring that trips up most quick breads. You just add pumpkin, eggs, sugar and a few spices, stir and pour.

If you think using a baking mix is cheating, I get it. I used to feel that way, too. But this isn’t a box-mix loaf that tastes like a box. Real pumpkin and a generous dose of cinnamon and nutmeg give you all the fall flavor you love. The result is a moist, soft crumb that tastes like you spent the afternoon baking.

This is the kind of recipe I love most because it is low effort, reliable and good enough to bring to the holiday table. Make it the night before for an easy breakfast, slice it for after-school snacks or make mini loaves and wrap them for your neighbors. It freezes well, so you can bake ahead and have one less thing to think about when the holidays get busy.

I’ll walk you through the simple steps, how to tell when it’s really done, and ideas for easy mix-ins. Make it once and you’ll have an easy fall bake you can pull out any time.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Vegetable oil: Any neutral oil works here, like canola.
• Canned pumpkin: Grab plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Eggs
• Bisquick Original baking mix
• Sugar
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Chocolate chips: The mini ones spread evenly through the batter so you get a little chocolate in every bite. Regular chips work too, they just make bigger pockets.

How to Make Bisquick Pumpkin Bread

1. Heat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan.
2. Add the oil, pumpkin, eggs, Bisquick, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a big bowl. Stir with a whisk until everything is moistened, then keep going and beat it hard for a full minute.
3. Stir in the mini chocolate chips last, just until they’re spread through the batter. Pour it into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
4. Bake 50-60 minutes until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf sit in the pan for 5 minutes, then run a knife or metal spatula around the edges to loosen it. Turn it out onto a wire rack and let it cool all the way before you slice it.

How Long to Bake Pumpkin Bread

The recipe card says 50 to 60 minutes at 350°F, and that’s where you should start checking. My loaf took closer to an hour, so don’t worry if yours does too. Ovens run differently, and a pan full of wet pumpkin batter is slow to cook through the middle.

Go by the toothpick, not the timer. Push it into the center of the loaf. If it comes out with wet batter on it, close the oven door and give it another 5 minutes. A few melted chocolate smears are fine. Raw, shiny batter is not. I just kept mine in until the center was cooked and it turned out great.

Serving Ideas

My favorite way to serve this is as a side with dinner. I know, lots of people think it is dessert, but in my family it is a fall side. A thick slice next to a pot of soup or chili is hard to beat. It also sits nicely next to roast chicken or pork when the weather turns.

For breakfast, I like it with a cup of coffee and nothing else. If you want it a little richer, spread soft butter or cream cheese on a slice. It’s an easy thing to leave out on Thanksgiving morning so people can grab a piece while you deal with the turkey.

For bake sales and gifts, mini loaf pans are the way to go. Wrap each little loaf in plastic wrap, tie it with some twine, and you’re done.

How to Store

Once the loaf is completely cool, wrap it tightly or set it in an airtight container. It keeps on the counter for 3 to 4 days, and the fridge works too if your kitchen runs hot. It does get a little drier the longer it sits, so the first couple of days are its best.

This bread freezes really well. Slice it first, then wrap the slices individually or stack them with parchment between them, and put them in a freezer bag. That way you can pull out one slice at a time instead of thawing the whole loaf. To thaw, leave a slice on the counter for an hour or so, or give it a few seconds in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

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Bisquick Pumpkin Bread Recipe

This Bisquick pumpkin bread stirs together in one bowl in 5 minutes. Real pumpkin, cinnamon and mini chocolate chips make a moist loaf that freezes well.

Course Dessert, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 12

Calories 298kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup canned pumpkin note this is less than a full can
• 3 eggs
• 2 ⅓ cups Bisquick baking mix
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

• Heat oven to 350°F. Generously grease a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan.
• In a bowl, stir together the oil, pumpkin, eggs, Bisquick, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until moistened. Then beat vigorously for 1 minute.
  ⅓ cup vegetable oil, 1 cup canned pumpkin, 3 eggs, 2 ⅓ cups Bisquick baking mix, ¾ cup sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Stir in chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  ½ cup mini chocolate chips
• Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 5 minutes. Then run a knife around the edges and dump the loaf out. Let the pumpkin bread cool completely before you slice it.

Notes

• This recipe only uses 1 cup of pumpkin, which is less than a full can, so don’t dump the whole thing in. Extra pumpkin makes the center wet and slow to bake, and that’s usually the reason a loaf comes out gummy.
• Don’t skip the one-minute beating. It’s the closest thing this recipe has to a trick, and it makes the crumb tender instead of patchy.
• Keep the oven door closed for the first 40 minutes. Opening it early lets the heat out, and the loaf can sink in the middle.
• If the top is getting dark before the center is done, lay a piece of foil loosely over it. That’s easier than pulling it out early and ending up with a raw middle.
• You can use pumpkin pie spice instead of the cinnamon and nutmeg, and add in chopped nuts if you like.

Nutrition

Calories: 298kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 322mg | Potassium: 109mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 3256IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Easy Bisquick Pumpkin Bread You Can Stir Up in 5 Minutes appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Most of these classic Christmas cookie recipes use pantry staples like butter, flour, and sugar, so you won’t be hunting down specialty ingredients in the middle of a busy week. They’re easy to bake ahead, they hold up well in a tin, and they’re the cookies people actually look for on a holiday cookie tray. Bake a batch for a cookie exchange, a plate for the neighbors, or just to have something sweet on the counter all season.

Molasses Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chewy molasses chocolate chip cookies pair ginger and cinnamon with pockets of melted chocolate. Their deep spice and familiar texture make them a fitting pick for an old-fashioned cookie tray, and the dough comes together without complicated steps.
Get the Recipe: Molasses Chocolate Chip Cookies

Potato Chip Cookies

Potato chip cookies bring sweet and salty flavors together in a classic, six-ingredient bake. They are quick to mix and add a crunchy change of pace to an old-fashioned cookie collection.
Get the Recipe: Potato Chip Cookies

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate crinkle cookies have the crackled tops and soft, brownie-like centers people remember from longtime family baking. They are simple to prepare and look great arranged among other classic cookies.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Cocoa Oatmeal Cookies

Cocoa oatmeal cookies combine chewy oats with a chocolate buttercream topping for a familiar bake with extra chocolate character. They are easy enough for a casual baking day and sturdy enough to pack in cookie boxes.
Get the Recipe: Cocoa Oatmeal Cookies

Italian Ricotta Cookies

Italian ricotta cookies are soft, tender, and lightly cake-like, which gives them a place among traditional family cookie recipes. The dough is straightforward to make, and the finished cookies work well for sharing or serving after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Ricotta Cookies

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut butter blossoms pair a soft peanut butter cookie with a chocolate candy center. This longtime favorite is easy to make with kids and adds a recognizable shape to a classic cookie spread.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Blossoms

Cardamom Cookies

Cardamom cookies are crisp Scandinavian-style spice cookies with a clean, fragrant flavor. Their simple dough and old-world roots make them a natural fit for a collection centered on grandma-style baking.
Get the Recipe: Cardamom Cookies

Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Jam thumbprint cookies start with buttery shortbread and finish with a bright spot of raspberry or apricot jam. They are easy to shape by hand and bring a classic bakery look to a plate of cookies.
Get the Recipe: Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Church Window Cookies

Church window cookies layer chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts into colorful slices that need no oven time. With five ingredients, they are a practical old-fashioned treat to make when oven space is limited.
Get the Recipe: Church Window Cookies

Iced Oatmeal Cookies

Iced oatmeal cookies are soft and chewy with cinnamon running through the dough and a thin glaze on top. They recall old-school bakery cookies and come together easily for platters, sharing, or an afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: Iced Oatmeal Cookies

Swedish Ginger Cookies

Swedish ginger cookies, also called pepparkakor, bake thin and crisp with molasses and classic spices. Their simple rolled-cookie method makes them a traditional choice for anyone who enjoys a snappy, old-fashioned cookie.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Ginger Cookies

Butterscotch Cookies

Chewy butterscotch cookies use pecans and toffee-like flavor for a familiar, old-time dessert. They mix up quickly and bring a little crunch to a tray filled with softer cookies.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Cookies

Pecan Tassies

Pecan tassies are bite-size pastry cups filled with a brown sugar and pecan mixture. These old-fashioned cookies take a little shaping, but their small size makes them easy to serve at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Tassies

Haystack Cookies

Haystack cookies are a no-bake classic made with just four ingredients and only a few minutes of hands-on work. Their crunchy, piled-high shape brings a playful vintage feel to a cookie assortment.
Get the Recipe: Haystack Cookies

Apple Butter Snickerdoodles

Apple butter snickerdoodles give the familiar cinnamon-coated cookie a soft texture and real apple flavor. The one-bowl dough keeps prep simple, making them an easy addition to an old-fashioned baking lineup.
Get the Recipe: Apple Butter Snickerdoodles

Speculoos

Speculoos, also known as Dutch windmill cookies, are crisp spiced cookies with roots in European tradition. Their stamped shapes and fragrant spice profile make them stand out in a collection of heritage recipes.
Get the Recipe: Speculoos

Raspberry Pinwheel Cookies

Raspberry pinwheel cookies roll jam and walnuts inside a buttery dough before being sliced into spirals. The slice-and-bake method creates a polished look without requiring detailed decorating.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Pinwheel Cookies

Sour Cream Cookies

Sour cream cookies are soft, cake-like classics finished with buttercream frosting. The sour cream keeps the crumb tender, and the simple style fits right in with recipes passed down through generations.
Get the Recipe: Sour Cream Cookies

Lemon Tassies

Lemon tassies are small pastry cups with buttery crusts and tangy lemon filling. They are easy to portion and bring a bright contrast to richer old-fashioned cookies on the table.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Tassies

Russian Tea Cakes

Russian tea cakes are crumbly butter cookies coated in powdered sugar and often made with nuts. Their simple ingredients and familiar snowy finish have kept them in family cookie traditions for generations.
Get the Recipe: Russian Tea Cakes

The post 20 Old-Fashioned Christmas Cookies Like Grandma Used to Make appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Personally, I like cobblers better than pies. Pie crust can be finicky. It shrinks, it cracks, and then the edges burn before the middle is done, and I end up trying to cover the edges of a hot pie with foil. A cobbler is much more forgiving, and it feels more rustic.

This cobbler also solves the math problem every holiday host knows. One pie gives you eight skinny slices, and somebody always wants seconds. A cobbler bakes in a bigger pan, so it serves more people without doubling the recipe. It’s also a great potluck dessert, since it travels in the same dish it baked in.

But even though this isn’t a pie, you still get pumpkin pie spice in every bite, plus that cozy smell drifting through the house. You just skip the crust work. Easy doesn’t mean lazy. It means you saved your energy for the people at the table.

Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, tips for getting the biscuit topping just right, and serving ideas. Scoop it out hot with a big spoonful of cold vanilla ice cream and let it melt right in.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Pumpkin puree
• Evaporated milk
• Pumpkin pie spice: Apple pie spice or plain cinnamon can substitute.
• Eggs
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Butter
• Milk

How to Make Pumpkin Cobbler

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree and evaporated milk until smooth, then whisk in the eggs. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt, and mix until combined.
3. Pour the pumpkin filling mixture into the dish and spread it into an even layer. Use a spatula to get it into the corners.
4. In a second large bowl, stir together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla and stir just until it comes together. A few little lumps are fine. Overmixing will make the topping tough.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter evenly over the pumpkin, then gently spread it out. Don’t cover it completely. Leave openings so the pumpkin shows through.
6. To make the topping, stir the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl, sprinkle it over the batter, and drizzle the melted butter over the top.
7. Bake it uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and set and the pumpkin layer is bubbling slightly around the edges. Then let it rest for at least 15 minutes.

Serving Ideas

I serve this pumpkin cobbler in bowls instead of on flat plates, because the filling is soft and you’ll want to catch every bit of it. My favorite way to serve it is warm, with a big scoop of cold vanilla ice cream sliding down into the pumpkin layer.

When I’m feeding a crowd, I set the dish on the counter with a tub of ice cream and a bowl of whipped cream and let everyone build their own. It saves me from playing dessert waitress after dinner.

This cobbler also works for potlucks and family gatherings because it bakes and travels in the same dish. Any leftover squares make a great breakfast with a cup of coffee, and I don’t pretend otherwise.

How to Store

Cover the dish tightly or move the cobbler to an airtight container, and it keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. Refrigerate it within 2 hours of serving.

To reheat a single portion, microwave it for about 20 to 30 seconds. For a bigger batch, cover the baking dish and heat it in a 300-degree F oven until it’s heated through.

That same reheating method is how you could make it ahead for Thanksgiving. Bake it the day before, let it cool, cover it, and refrigerate it. On the day, reheat it covered at 300 degrees F, and you’ve taken one more job off the big day.

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Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe

Easy pumpkin cobbler with a creamy pumpkin pie filling and a cinnamon sugar biscuit topping. No pie crust, 15 minutes of prep, and it serves 10 to 12.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Resting Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings 10

Calories 410kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

Pumpkin Filling

• 1 can pumpkin puree 15 ounces
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Cobbler Topping

• 2 cups flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup butter melted
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons butter melted

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree and evaporated milk until smooth. Whisk in the eggs.
  1 can pumpkin puree, 1 cup evaporated milk, 2 large eggs
• Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until completely combined.
  ¾ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt
• Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
• In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  2 cups flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pour in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla. Stir just until combined. Don’t overmix.
  ½ cup butter, 1 cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler batter evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Gently spread the batter, leaving a few small openings for the pumpkin filling to peek through.
• In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the cobbler topping. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
  2 tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons butter
• Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cobbler topping is golden brown and set and the pumpkin filling is bubbling slightly around the edges.
• Remove from the oven and allow the cobbler to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. The pumpkin layer will continue to thicken as it rests.
• Serve hot with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcal | Carbohydrates: 63g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 378mg | Potassium: 265mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 519IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 164mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Easy Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe (No Pie Crust Needed) appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Others are quick bites small enough for little hands to grab between presents. Whether it’s just your crew or a full house of relatives who stayed over, there’s something here that gets everyone fed without pulling you away for long. Make one, maybe two, and get back to the wrapping paper mess.

Christmas Bagels

Red and green bagels bring Christmas color to the breakfast table. Set them out with cream cheese and fruit so everyone can build their own plate.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Bagels

Eggnog French Toast

Eggnog gives familiar French toast a seasonal flavor without changing how you make it. Add a little nutmeg and serve a batch for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog French Toast

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling cook together in the slow cooker while you focus on the morning. Scoop it straight into bowls for an easy family breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls cook in just 10 minutes, so breakfast won’t hold up the morning. Shape them into festive designs if the kids want to help.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Rolls

Jam Stuffed French Toast

A pocket of jam makes each slice of French toast feel like a treat. It’s a simple way to make a family breakfast special with bread you may already have.
Get the Recipe: Jam Stuffed French Toast

Mini German Pancakes

These little pancakes puff up together in the oven, so there’s no need to stand at the stove flipping them. Serve them with blueberry sauce and let everyone grab their own.
Get the Recipe: Mini German Pancakes

Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie

Cinnamon rolls baked in a pie crust make a breakfast the family can slice and share. A drizzle of frosting finishes it off without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie

Chicken and Waffle Casserole

Chicken and waffles come together in one five-ingredient casserole. It’s a hearty choice when you want to feed the whole family from one dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Waffle Casserole

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Assemble this Christmas breakfast casserole the night before, then bake it in the morning. With eggs and breakfast favorites in one pan, serving the family is simple.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Cranberry Cinnamon Roll Bake

Tart cranberries and buttery brown sugar give store-bought cinnamon rolls a festive look. With just four ingredients, this bake is easy to put on the family breakfast table.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cinnamon Roll Bake

Apple French Toast Casserole

Apples and maple syrup make this French toast casserole a breakfast worth gathering around. Bake it in one dish and serve everyone at once.
Get the Recipe: Apple French Toast Casserole

Old English Sausage Muffins

These sausage muffins make a handy breakfast when everyone’s morning starts at a different pace. Prepare them ahead so family members can grab one when they’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Old English Sausage Muffins

Pomegranate Cherry Yogurt Parfait

Pomegranate and cherries add bright red color to a simple yogurt parfait. Set out the ingredients and let everyone layer their own breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Cherry Yogurt Parfait

Sausage Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits and sausage gravy make a hearty breakfast for the whole table. This Cracker Barrel copycat is a good pick when the family has time to sit down together.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Biscuits and Gravy

Sausage Biscuit Casserole

This casserole puts sausage, biscuits, and gravy into one baking dish. It serves the whole family without making you assemble individual plates.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Biscuit Casserole

Cake Mix Donuts

These four-ingredient donuts keep breakfast prep short and leave plenty of room for decorating. Set out toppings and let the whole family join in.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Donuts

Gingerbread Pancakes

Gingerbread cake mix brings seasonal spice to a quick batch of pancakes. Make a stack for the family and let everyone choose their own toppings.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Pancakes

The post 17 Easy Christmas Breakfast Ideas for the Whole Family appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

You’ll find spiced nuts, cookie mix, and other easy edible gifts you can make in one batch and package up in a jar, a tin, or a bag with a ribbon. Make a few extra and keep them on hand for the bus driver, the mail carrier, or the friend who stops by with something unexpected. It feels personal, it costs less than a gift card, and nobody needs another mug.

Red Velvet Truffles

These red velvet truffles need just four ingredients, so they’re handy when you’re making several gifts at once. Tuck them into a candy box for a teacher or neighbor.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Truffles

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Sugar Pecans

Let the slow cooker handle these cinnamon sugar pecans while you work on other gifts. Spoon them into jars for neighbors or teachers who might prefer a crunchy snack.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cinnamon Sugar Pecans

Hot Cocoa Mix in a Jar

This cocoa mix is already packed for gifting once you fill the jar. Add the printable tag, and you’ve got an easy thank-you for a teacher or neighbor.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cocoa Mix in a Jar

Peppermint Bark Crackers

Graham crackers dipped in milk and white chocolate get a sprinkle of peppermint pieces. They’re easy to stack in a gift tin and share with neighbors or teachers.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Bark Crackers

Amish Cinnamon Bread

A loaf of cinnamon bread makes a thoughtful gift without any special packaging. Wrap it for a neighbor or teacher to slice and share at home.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Bread

Peanut Brittle

Crisp peanut brittle breaks into pieces that fit neatly in a tin. It keeps for weeks and ships well, making it practical for teachers or neighbors you won’t see right away.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Brittle

Buckeyes

Leave a little peanut butter showing through the chocolate, and these classic buckeyes are ready for a gift box. They’re a fun hands-on project when you’re making treats for neighbors or teachers.
Get the Recipe: Buckeyes

Starbucks Gingerbread Loaf

This homemade take on Starbucks’ gingerbread loaf has cream cheese frosting on top. Wrap a loaf or a few slices for a teacher or neighbor, and keep it chilled until you deliver it.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Gingerbread Loaf

Turtle Candy

The slow cooker melts the chocolate for these pecan-and-Rolo candies, so you don’t need a candy thermometer. Once they’re set, pack them in a tin for a neighbor or teacher.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Candy

Peppermint Oreo Truffles

Crushed Oreos and peppermint make these no-bake truffles easy to put together. Pack a few in a small box for a teacher or neighbor who likes chocolate and mint.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Oreo Truffles

White Chocolate Popcorn

Popcorn, pretzels, pecans, and M&Ms get a drizzle of white chocolate in this sweet-and-salty snack. Make a big batch and divide it into bags for several teachers or neighbors.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Popcorn

Christmas Cream Cheese Mints

Christmas Cream Cheese Mints use five ingredients and don’t need baking. Pack the finished mints in a small tin for a teacher or neighbor.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Cream Cheese Mints

Snickers Fudge

This fudge brings together chocolate, caramel, and peanuts in small squares. Cut a batch into pieces and box them up for teachers or neighbors who love candy bars.
Get the Recipe: Snickers Fudge

Peppermint Patties

A soft peppermint center and chocolate coating make these homemade patties easy to share. Set a few between pieces of parchment in a gift box for a neighbor or teacher.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Patties

Christmas Caramels

These Christmas Caramels are soft, chewy, and buttery, just as homemade caramels should be. Wrap them individually so teachers and neighbors can take a few now and save the rest.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Caramels

Chocolate Covered Pretzels

With three ingredients and about 15 minutes of prep, chocolate-covered pretzels are handy for last-minute gifts. Bag them up for a teacher or neighbor who likes a sweet-and-salty snack.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Reindeer Chow

Chocolate-coated cereal, candy, and pretzels make Reindeer Chow easy to portion into gift bags. It’s a good pick when you have several neighbors or teachers to thank.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Chow

Hot Chocolate Fudge

Marshmallows and peppermint give this chocolate fudge the feel of a mug of cocoa. Cut it into squares and pack it in a tin for a teacher or neighbor.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

These no-bake peanut butter balls have a chocolate coating and are easy to make in batches. Arrange a few in paper candy cups for a teacher or neighbor.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

Chocolate Honeycomb Candy

The airy center of honeycomb candy makes a crisp contrast to its chocolate coating. Break it into pieces and tuck them into a box for a neighbor or teacher.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Honeycomb Candy

Chocolate Almond Fudge

This chocolate almond fudge takes four ingredients and about 10 minutes of hands-on work. Cut it into squares for gift plates when you’re thanking several teachers or neighbors.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Almond Fudge

The post 21 Homemade Food Gifts for Neighbors and Teachers appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

You’ll find the classics people expect to see, plus a few new ones to round out the buffet or bring to a Friendsgiving potluck. Pick a few, split the list with whoever’s bringing a dish, and call it done. Nobody leaves hungry, and hopefully you’ll actually get to sit down.

Crock Pot Green Bean Casserole

This slow cooker green bean casserole keeps a classic side off the oven schedule, which makes it helpful when you’re feeding a full table. It cooks with little hands-on work and fits right in with a spread of traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Green Bean Casserole

Broccoli Crunch Salad

Broccoli Crunch Salad brings crisp broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon to the table in one colorful dish. It can be prepared without taking up oven space, making it a practical fresh side for a large gathering.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Cornbread Dressing

This slow cooker cornbread dressing brings the familiar flavor of a classic dressing while keeping the oven free for other dishes. Its moist texture and hands-off cooking method make it a smart pick for a large holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Dressing

Cracker Barrel Carrots

These brown sugar-glazed carrots are buttery, lightly sweet, and easy to prepare for a crowd. They cook into a kid-friendly side that adds color to the plate without requiring much preparation.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Carrots

Utica Greens

Utica Greens bring escarole, hot peppers, and garlic together for a bold side with Italian-American flavor. The greens add variety to a large meal and can stand out among the more familiar dishes on the table.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens

7 Layer Salad

Seven Layer Salad stacks vegetables and creamy dressing into a colorful dish that serves well at a large gathering. It can be prepared ahead and placed on the table when you’re ready to serve, which helps simplify meal planning.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Cranberry Fluff

Cranberry Fluff combines cranberries, Cool Whip, and marshmallows into a light, sweet side that takes little time to assemble. Its make-ahead quality and generous serving potential make it a handy addition to a crowd-sized meal.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Fluff

Crock Pot Creamed Corn

Crock Pot Creamed Corn cooks slowly into a smooth, creamy side while leaving your stovetop and oven available for other dishes. Its familiar flavor makes it an easy choice for serving alongside a full holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Creamed Corn

Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

These slow cooker scalloped potatoes cook until tender in a creamy sauce without needing constant attention. They make a hearty side for a large meal and help keep the oven available for the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

Squash Casserole

This five-ingredient zucchini and squash casserole layers green zucchini with yellow squash for a colorful side dish. It comes together simply and gives a crowd a lighter vegetable option alongside richer recipes.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce

Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce brings bright color and a tangy bite to a generously sized meal. It pairs easily with many main dishes and can be prepared ahead, making it a useful part of a larger menu.
Get the Recipe: Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese cooks tender pasta and creamy cheese together with minimal stovetop work. Its familiar flavor makes it a family-friendly side that can serve plenty of people at a large gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffing Balls

These bacon-wrapped stuffing balls turn classic stuffing into individual savory bites with crisp bacon around the outside. They are easy to portion for a crowd and work well as a side or starter for a large meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Stuffing Balls

Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

This slow cooker sweet potato casserole combines soft sweet potatoes with brown sugar, marshmallows, and pecans. Since it cooks in the crock pot, it saves oven space while providing a generous side for a full table.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

Green Bean Casserole

This classic green bean casserole combines creamy sauce with a crisp topping for a familiar side that serves well at large gatherings. It can be baked in the oven or prepared in an air fryer, giving you flexibility when several dishes need cooking space.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Roast Delicata Squash

Roasted delicata squash with fennel and maple syrup brings a simple sweet-and-savory vegetable side to the table. It cooks quickly and adds variety to a crowd-sized menu without requiring a complicated preparation.
Get the Recipe: Roast Delicata Squash

Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

These slow cooker mashed potatoes become creamy and tender while keeping the stovetop clear for other recipes. They are easy to hold and serve, making them especially useful when preparing sides for a large group.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Watergate Salad

Watergate Salad combines five ingredients into a light pistachio fluff that can be made ahead of time. Its simple preparation and generous serving style make it a practical sweet side for a busy gathering.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Crockpot Apples

These crockpot apples cook with butter and cinnamon until tender and sweet, creating a side that can also work as dessert. The slow cooker handles most of the preparation, which makes them easy to serve when you’re cooking for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Apples

The post 19 Thanksgiving Side Dishes for a Crowd appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

My family would eat chocolate chip cookies every single day if I let them. But I like to switch things up now and then, so I figured, why not add Biscoff? They still look and taste like chocolate chip cookies, just with a little something extra.

These cookies have cookie butter right in the dough, crushed Biscoff cookies mixed in with the chocolate chips, and broken Biscoff cookies pressed on top before baking. So the flavor runs through every bite.

If you’re worried these will be too sweet or too far from the classic, don’t be. They’re still chocolate chip cookies at heart. The cinnamon is cozy, not overpowering, and if you love regular chocolate chip cookies, you’ll like these too.

Below you’ll find the step-by-step directions and tips on things like how to store and freeze them. If you’ve been making the same chocolate chip cookie on repeat, this is an easy way to shake things up.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Biscoff cookies: These are the Lotus brand caramelized cookies, the same ones they hand out on airplanes. You’ll crush some for the dough and break the rest into pieces for the top. Look for them in the cookie aisle.
• Butter
• White sugar
• Brown sugar
• Cookie butter: This is Biscoff spread, sold next to the peanut butter at most grocery stores or at Trader Joe’s under its own label. Creamy or crunchy both work.
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Flour
• Cinnamon
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Chocolate chips: I usually use semisweet, but use whatever kind you like best.

How to Make Biscoff Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. First, crush 8 of the Biscoff cookies into crumbs so they’re ready when the dough needs them. Toss them in a zipper bag and roll them with a rolling pin. That way there’s no food processor to wash later. Set the other 8 cookies aside for the top.
2. Beat the butter on high speed for about 2 minutes, until soft and smooth. Scrape down the bowl, then add the white sugar and brown sugar and beat on low until light and fluffy.
3. Add the cookie butter and beat on medium until fully combined. Next, add the egg and vanilla and beat for another minute.
4. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, then add to the mixing bowl. Mix just until you no longer see dry streaks.
5. Add the Biscoff crumbs and chocolate chips and mix on low for about 30 seconds, just enough to distribute them.
6. Scoop the dough onto your prepared sheets with a medium cookie scoop. Break the reserved Biscoff cookies into pieces and press a few into each dough ball, firmly enough that they sit down in the dough or stick out the top.
7. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges are brown. Let the cookies sit on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack. They finish setting during that rest.

Serving Ideas

These are rich enough that I rarely add much more. My favorite way to eat these is still the simplest. A glass of cold milk and a cookie that’s still soft in the middle. Coffee works great too.

For a cookie tray or a potluck, I’ll stack these next to a plainer cookie so the Biscoff on top stands out. They travel well since the pieces on top are pressed in, not just balanced there.

How to Store

Once the cookies have cooled completely, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for 4 to 5 days.

To freeze, layer the baked cookies between sheets of parchment in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw on the counter for about 20 minutes, or microwave for 10 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked texture.

The dough freezes well too. Scoop the dough into balls, press the Biscoff pieces on top first, then freeze the balls on a tray before transferring them to a bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

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Biscoff Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Biscoff chocolate chip cookies with cookie butter in the dough, crushed Biscoff mixed in, and pieces pressed on top. No chilling, ready in 26 minutes.

Course Cookies

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Bake Time 11 minutes minutes

Total Time 26 minutes minutes

Servings 28

Calories 168kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 16 Biscoff cookies divided
• 1/2 cup butter cubed
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup cookie butter
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
• Crush 8 of the Biscoff cookies into crumbs. Put them in a zipper bag and roll them with a rolling pin. Set aside the other 8 cookies.
  16 Biscoff cookies
• Use a mixer to beat the butter on high speed until softened, about 2 minutes.
  1/2 cup butter
• Scrape the bowl and add both the white sugar and brown sugar. Beat on low until it is light and fluffy.
  1/2 cup white sugar, 3/4 cup brown sugar
• Add the cookie butter and beat on medium until combined. Add the egg and vanilla and beat for another minute.
  1/2 cup cookie butter, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• In a bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, then stir. Add to the mixing bowl and mix until the flour is mostly combined.
  1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Add the Biscoff crumbs and chocolate chips and mix on low for about 30 seconds.
  3/4 cup chocolate chips
• Use a medium cookie scoop to scoop out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Break the remaining Biscoff cookies into pieces and press some into each dough ball.
• Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are brown. They might still look a little undercooked in the middle. Let them sit on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack.

Notes

• Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping straight from the bag. Scooping packs in extra flour, and that’s the fastest way to end up with dry, cakey cookies.
• Make sure to scrape the bowl after creaming the butter. It takes ten seconds, and it’s the difference between dough mixed all the way through and dough with a stubborn butter streak at the bottom.
• The most common cookie mistake is overmixing once the flour goes in. Stop as soon as the streaks disappear.
• Every oven runs a little different, so start checking at 9 minutes the first time you make these.
• If your chocolate chips keep sinking to the bottom, toss them with a spoonful of the flour mixture first.
• Either crunchy or creamy cookie butter works fine in this recipe.
• Use whatever chocolate chips you like best in this recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 168kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 115mg | Potassium: 26mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 126IU | Vitamin C: 0.03mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Biscoff Chocolate Chip Cookies (Soft Centers, Crisp Edges) appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.