Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners, simple meal ideas, or frugal ways to stretch your grocery budget, there are so many easy options that pair perfectly with rice.

From chicken and beef to vegetarian and comfort food favorites, here are plenty of easy meals to serve with rice.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

How to Cook Perfect Rice Every Time

If you’re planning meals with rice, knowing how to cook it perfectly makes all the difference – even without a rice cooker! Here are three easy methods to cook rice.

Stovetop

Rinse 1 cup of rice, then combine with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15–18 minutes until the water is absorbed.

Instant Pot

Add 1 cup rice and 1 cup water, cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then let it naturally release for 10 minutes. This has become my go-to method with jasmine rice.

Oven

Combine rice and water in a covered baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 25–30 minutes until tender.

All three methods work well! I used to always cook long grain rice on the stovetop but have switched to always cooking jasmine rice in the instant pot. Once you have your rice ready, here are 40 easy ideas for what goes with rice.

Chicken Meals to Serve with Rice

• Teriyaki Chicken – A sweet and savory classic that’s easy to make at home and perfect served over rice.
• Garlic Butter Chicken – A simple, flavorful chicken dish made with pantry ingredients and ready in no time.
• Honey Garlic Chicken – A family-friendly dinner with just the right mix of sweet and savory flavors.
• BBQ Chicken – An easy option using your favorite barbecue sauce and whatever cut of chicken you prefer for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Lemon Chicken – Light, fresh, and perfect when you want something a little different from heavier meals.
• Salsa Chicken – One of the easiest meals to throw in the slow cooker with just salsa or extra taco seasoning as you prefer. Serve over rice, or use the chicken and rice to make burrito style bowls.
• Million Dollar Chicken – These delicious cream cheese topped chicken breasts are another family favorite.
• Chicken Stir Fry – A quick and flexible meal that’s great for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand.
• Chicken Curry – A simple, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with rice for a cozy dinner.
• Baked Chicken – A basic, no-fuss option that works well when you need something simple and reliable. Use your favorite cut of chicken and season simply before serving with rice.
• Balsamic Crock Pot Chicken – If you’re looking for a super simple and healthy meal, this 3-ingredient slow cooker recipe goes great over rice.

Beef Meals to Serve with Rice

• Ground Beef Skillet Meals – With so many different options available, this is a quick option that you can easily serve with rice.
• Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry – A simple takeout-style meal that’s easy to make at home.
• BBQ Meatballs – Sweet and savory meatballs that are easy to throw together and always a hit with the whole family. The Pioneer Woman’s BBQ Meatball recipe is a go-to in our family.
• Sweet and Sour Meatballs – A slightly tangy, slightly sweet option that pairs perfectly with rice for an easy dinner.
• Meatballs – Really, any meatballs pair well with rice! I keep these basic meatballs in my freezer at all times to be ready for a quick meal.
• Beef Tips with Gravy – Tender beef in a rich gravy that makes a simple, comforting meal over rice.
• Chili – A good, basic chili is always a great meal option. If you don’t want to serve rice with chili, here are 27 other ideas to serve with chili instead.
• Taco Meat – Super simple to make and perfect for an easy taco bowl (instead of shells) with rice, cheese, and whatever toppings you have on hand.
• Hamburger Gravy – A budget-friendly comfort meal made with ground beef and a simple gravy that’s perfect served over rice on busy nights.

Vegetarian Meals to Serve with Rice

• Stir-Fried Vegetables – A flexible option that’s perfect for using up whatever veggies you have in the fridge.
• Egg Roll in a Bowl – All the flavors of an egg roll without the wrapper, making it an easy and healthier option.
• Black Beans – A simple, budget-friendly protein that pairs perfectly with rice for a filling meal.
• Lentils – An affordable and hearty option that’s easy to cook and great for stretching meals.
• Chickpea Curry – A flavorful, spicy dish that’s simple to make and perfect over rice.
• Roasted Veggies – An easy, hands-off side that adds great flavor to your rice meal.
• Vegetable Fried Rice – A super easy way to turn leftover rice and veggies into a quick, budget-friendly meal.
• Stuffed Peppers – A simple mix of rice, beans, and veggies baked together for an easy, filling dinner. (You can also make this with meat if you prefer.)
• Cheesy Zucchini Rice – Enjoy your vegetables and your rice together in this cheesy and delicious zucchini rice.

Casseroles & Comfort Meals to Pair with Rice

• Poppy Seed Chicken – Poppy seed chicken is a family favorite and one of our go-to comfort meals. We serve it over rice, for a yummy meal that everyone loves.
• Swedish Meatballs – A creamy, comforting classic that pairs perfectly with rice for an easy dinner.
• Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole – You can enjoy your chicken alfredo mixed together with rice in this make-ahead casserole dinner.
• Sausage and Peppers – A flavorful, one-pan meal that’s easy to throw together on a busy night.
• Crock Pot Mexican Chicken – Only 5 ingredients needed for this easy meal, that you can eat with chips or pour over rice.
• Chicken Wild Rice Casserole – With this creamy casserole, wild rice is already included in the recipe for an easy rice casserole.
• Beef Stroganoff – A creamy, hearty dish that works just as well over rice when you don’t have noodles on hand.
• Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole – I love the enchilada flavor in this skillet rice dinner. A great Mexican dinner idea!

Easy & Budget Meals with Rice

• Beans and Rice – One of the simplest and most budget-friendly meals that’s filling and easy to make with pantry staples.
• Burrito Bowls – An easy way to use what you have on hand and build a customizable meal everyone will eat.
• Fried Rice – A great way to use up leftover rice and turn it into a quick, affordable meal.

I hope this list helps you figure out what to serve with rice tonight! There really are so many simple options that pair perfectly with rice.

And if you need more easy dinner ideas, check out my list of what to serve with baked potatoes for even more inspiration.

The post Easy Meal Ideas to Serve with Rice appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

Chili is one of those easy, go-to meals—especially when you need something hearty, filling, and family-friendly. If you don’t already have a favorite recipe, you can check out my go-to chili recipe here. It’s easy, tastes great and is actually Whole 30 approved as well. A bonus!

But once the chili is simmering, the next question is always the same… what should you serve with it?

Whether you want something light, comforting, or a little sweet to balance things out, here are some easy ideas that pair perfectly with chili.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

What Types of Chili Do These Sides Go With?

Before we start, know that these side dishes work well with all kinds of chili, including:

• Classic ground beef chili
• Turkey chili
• White chicken chili
• Vegetarian chili
• Spicy chili
• Slow cooker chili
• Instant Pot chili

No matter which type of chili you’re making, these sides will help round out the meal.

Best Breads to Serve with Chili

Soups are made for a side of bread, and chili is no exception! Here are some bread options to serve with chili.

• Cornbread – A classic side that pairs perfectly with hearty chili. (I highly recommend this cornbread box mix that tastes better than any homemade recipe I have ever tried!)
• Biscuits – Fluffy and buttery, great for soaking up every last bite. Canned or fresh, it’s an easy bread option.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy, savory, and always a crowd favorite. Buy a frozen box from the store or make your own!
• Not Too Sweet Fruit Muffins – A sweeter fruit muffin can be a good addition to your chili meal. These low sugar blueberry muffins are an option kids and adults would like with their chili.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft and simple, perfect for keeping things easy.
• Homemade Bread – You can never go wrong with homemade bread as a side for any meal! Sally’s Baking Addiction has my favorite bread recipe.
• Sausage Cheese Puffs – If you want a savory bread option, try making these easy sausage and cheese bites.

Light Side Dishes for Chili

Since chili is a filling meal, sometimes you want a lighter side to go with it. Here are some easy options.

• Side Salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to a rich bowl of chili.
• Coleslaw – Cool and creamy, especially good with spicy chili.
• Roasted Vegetables – Simple, healthy, and easy to prep ahead.
• Fruit Salad – A light, refreshing option that balances heavier flavors and easy to make with whatever fruit you have on hand.
• Apple Snickers Salad – This sweet salad has only 5 ingredients and is a hit every time I make it. The sweetness is a good complement to spicy chili.
• Potato Salad – If you want potato flavor, you can always serve a bowl of old-fashioned potato salad. This recipe is my Great-Grandma’s and has directions for feeding anywhere from 5 to 50!

Comfort Food Side Dishes for Chili

While chili is a comfort food in and of itself, there are a lot of cozy sides to serve with chili.

• Baked Potatoes – A hearty pairing that turns chili into a full meal. Here’s how I make perfect baked potatoes that keep my kids happy when we are eating chili.
• Mac and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and always a hit with kids and adults. Make it from scratch or a box!
• Rice – A simple way to stretch your chili and make it extra filling. If you need ideas, here are some easy meals to serve with rice.
• Grilled Cheese – Warm, melty, and perfect for dipping. No recipe necessary!
• Quesadillas – Easy, cheesy, and great for a Tex-Mex style meal.
• Nachos – Add chips, cheese, and toppings for a fun twist on chili night.
• Cheesy Potato Casserole – There is something about cheese and potatoes that together make the ultimate comfort food. This potato casserole is easy to mix together and bake in the oven while the chili simmers.

Best Desserts to Serve with Chili

If you’re serving chili for dinner, don’t forget dessert! Something sweet is the perfect way to balance a hearty, savory meal.

• Gooey Brownies – These are my family’s absolute favorite brownies. Once you make these one-bowl brownies once, you will never go back to a boxed brownie mix again.
• Peanut Butter Rice Krispies – While regular rice krispie treats are good, these peanut butter rice krispies topped with chocolate are a great ending to any meal.
• Cake Mix Cookies – Quick and simple, these easy cookies are made with only 5 ingredients.
• No-Bake Chocolate Cookies – Great for when you want something easy without turning on the oven. You can never go wrong with these no bake oatmeal cookies!
• Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake – While your chili simmers, you can mix up this easy Nothing Bundt cake copycat recipe. The sweet cream cheese frosting is the perfect ending to your meal!
• Frozen Peanut Butter Pie – Cool off after your chili with this easy, frozen peanut butter pie. A great make-ahead dessert recipe.
• Mint Chocolate Chip Pie – The subtle mint flavor in this no bake pudding pie makes it a great dessert option after spicy chili.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Serve with Chili

The post What to Serve with Chili appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

Our family trades a lot of recipes. I loved my Mom’s recipes, but my Aunts often gave us good recipes too. Whenever we visited, we often brought home a new recipe. That’s what happened with this easy bundt cake recipe.

My Aunt Renee introduced us to this chocolate chip bundt cake, and it’s truly one of the easiest desserts you can make. It tastes just like the expensive Nothing Bundt Cakes — but at a fraction of the cost. One of the reasons it’s so quick to make is that this recipe starts with a cake mix and a pudding mix, which gives it that rich, bakery-style texture.

There are so many tweaks to this cake mix recipe. You can swap out different cake mixes for different flavors. You can make mini bundt cakes like I do in this recipe, or one large one. But my go to? It’s this classic yellow bundt cake with chocolate chips. It’s so good that my daughter requested it for her birthday cake – instead of a traditional cake.

Make sure that you don’t forget the cream cheese frosting! That is what sets the Nothing Bundt cakes apart. Thankfully, I have a homemade cream cheese frosting that works perfectly with this cake too.

Ready to impress your family and friends with this bundt cake? No one will believe how easy it is, because it looks impressive and tastes amazing.

Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake with Cake Mix and Pudding

Cake Mix Bundt Cake Ingredients

Cake Ingredients:
1 yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup water
3 eggs
1 cup mini chocolate chips

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 1/2 – 4 cups powdered sugar

How to Make a Cake Mix Bundt Cake with Pudding

In a large bowl, mix together the dry yellow cake mix and instant pudding mix. Add eggs and sour cream. Stir in oil and water. Stir until completely mixed.

Add in chocolate chips. Mix altogether.

Put into a greased and floured bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes. Cool slightly before removing from pan.

Allow the cake to cool completely before making your cream cheese frosting and icing.

When you are ready to frost the cake, use a mixer to cream together softened cream cheese and butter. Add in vanilla.

Add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until frosting reaches the desired consistency. Put frosting into a piping bag and pipe cream cheese frosting over the bundt cake, following the ridges of your bundt cake pan.

Enjoy your delicious bundt cake!

Tips for Making the Best Cake Mix Bundt Cake

You do not need to use a mixer for the cake – simply stir in a large bowl with a spatula. I love one bowl dessert recipes!

Any bundt cake pan will work for this recipe. This is the bundt cake pan I use for this recipe. I love the classic lines of this pan, and the reasonable price!

If you want to make this recipe in smaller bundt cake pans, I have adjusted the baking times in my mini chocolate bundt cake recipe.

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened before making your frosting. You need a mixer for this part of the recipe. Cream the butter and cream cheese and add the powdered sugar until your frosting reaches the desired consistency. It is generally right around 3 1/2 cups for me but could be more or less for you.

When you are piping your frosting, I like to use a Number 12 piping tip – and a disposable frosting bag. This will make frosting much easier! The rounded Number 12 tip is what makes the frosting look like the popular Nothing Bundt cakes.

When piping the frosting, start right near the top and curve over and down the cake. It will give you the smoothest flow to pipe from top to bottom.

Since there is cream cheese in the frosting, you can store the frosted cake in the fridge. If you are serving it within a couple hours of frosting, leaving it out on the counter is fine.

Another option is to make the cakes and the frosting ahead of time, but to frost shortly before serving so your cakes can stay out at room temperature. This is what I often do, but either way works. Just choose the one that works best for you.

Whenever you frost it – and wherever you serve it – I hope you enjoy this cake as much as my family does!

Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake with Cake Mix and Pudding

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This easy chocolate chip bundt cake made with cake mix and pudding is super moist and topped with cream cheese frosting. A simple Nothing Bundt Cakes copycat that’s perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Kristen – Joyfully Thriving
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

Bundt Cake Ingredients:
1 yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup water
3 eggs
1 cup mini chocolate chips

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 1/2 – 4 cups powdered sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the dry yellow cake mix and instant pudding mix.
2. Add eggs and sour cream. Mix together.
3. Stir in oil and water. Stir until completely mixed.
4. Add in chocolate chips. Mix altogether.
5. Pour into a greased and floured bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes. Cool slightly before removing from pan.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. When you are ready to frost the cake, use a mixer to cream together softened cream cheese and butter. Add in vanilla.
7. Add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until frosting reaches the desired consistency.
8. Put frosting into a piping bag and pipe cream cheese frosting over the bundt cake, following the ridges of your bundt cake pan.
9. Enjoy your delicious bundt cake!

Notes

• Make sure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened before making your frosting. This helps get rid of all the lumps.
• When you are piping your frosting, I like to use a Number 12 piping tip – and a disposable frosting bag. This will make frosting much easier! The rounded Number 12 tip is what makes the frosting look like the popular Nothing Bundt cakes.
• Since there is cream cheese in the frosting, you can store the frosted cake in the fridge. If you are serving it within a couple hours of frosting, leaving it out on the counter is fine.
• Another option is to make the cakes and the frosting ahead of time, but to frost shortly before serving so your cakes can stay out at room temperature. This is what I often do, but either way works. Just choose the one that works best for you.

The post Easy Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake with Cake Mix and Pudding appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

I love saving money on groceries at Kroger, but there is one Kroger savings strategy that often gets overlooked. That is the amazing Kroger perk of earning and redeeming Kroger fuel points. It can save you real money on gas every single month!

I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to redeem Kroger fuel points at the gas pump and share my favorite tips for earning bonus Kroger fuel points, including a little trick my husband and I use to maximize the savings on every gallon of gas.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

Step-by-Step: How to Redeem Kroger Fuel Points at the Gas Station

Here’s exactly how to redeem Kroger fuel points at a Kroger gas station when you pull up to the pump. It’s really this simple.

1. Start the transaction. The screen will ask if you’re a Kroger member. Select “Yes.”

2. Log in for your fuel rewards. You can either scan your Kroger card barcode or enter your alternate ID (usually your phone number).

3. Insert your credit card to pay like normal. Ours asks if we want a car wash (we always say no), then processes the payment.

4. Select your fuel redemption rewards – where each 100 points equals $0.10 off a gallon. This is the important part because you have a few different fuel reward options at this point.

You’ll be given three choices:

• Option 1: Use last month’s fuel points.
• Option 2: Use this month’s fuel points.
• Option 3: Use 3 cents off per gallon, which you can choose any time as a Kroger member

To maximize savings, we usually choose the previous month’s points so we can keep earning more fuel points through the current month without missing out.

Note: My Kroger caps our redemption at $1.00 off (or 1000 fuel points) BUT I know there a few select Krogers in different states that allow you to use unlimited points in one transaction so 1300 points would earn you $1.30 off a gallon. Most cap at $1.00 off but it’s worth checking out to see what your Kroger does!

5. Make your selection and start filling your tank with gas!

How to Earn Kroger Fuel Points Faster (Bonus & 4x Fuel Point Tips)

Here’s a simple breakdown of how Kroger fuel points work and how to earn fuel points faster.

Did you know you earn fuel points every time you shop at Kroger? You earn a standard 1 fuel point per $1 spent on groceries at Kroger for most purchases.

If you are a Kroger Boost member, you earn double fuel points, which equals 2 points per $1 spent.

In addition to that, there are several other ways to earn bonus Kroger fuel points. Kroger often offers digital coupons for 4x fuel points, including 4x fuel points on Fridays or 4x fuel points on gift card purchases. Clip these coupons and watch your fuel rewards balance grow quickly.

Every once in a while, Kroger shares a digital coupon for a bonus 200 fuel points when you spend $50 or more (or a similar offer). You can find these by searching “fuel points” in the digital coupons section of the Kroger app.

One more easy way to earn bonus fuel points is to complete the Kroger online receipt survey using the code at the bottom of your receipt. Enter the unique survey code printed on your Kroger receipt, and you can earn 50 fuel points every 7 days. If you shop weekly and remember to complete the survey, that’s 200 extra fuel points per month, or $0.20 off per gallon.

My strategy is to collect Kroger fuel points all month long, then redeem them the following month. That way, I’m getting the maximum fuel discount possible when I fill up.

Kroger Fuel Point Hack: How to Maximize Your Savings

Here’s a trick we use when we have a big fuel point balance (like 50 cents off per gallon or more).

My husband and I bring both of our cars to the station. We park them back-to-back, each with the fuel tanks lined up. We fill the first car with gas and then (without stopping the pump!) move the nozzle to the second car and keep filling up with gas.

This method lets us use as much of the 35-gallon limit as possible. For example, we recently had 900 fuel points which meant we saved $0.90 off per gallon. On that particular trip, we pumped 31.5 gallons total between two cars and saved $28.35 in one stop! As you can see, the savings really add up!

Kroger Fuel Points Rules, Expiration Dates, and Limits

Is Using Kroger Fuel Points Worth It?

Kroger fuel points are definitely worth taking advantage of because you can save quite a bit of money every month on your gas, thanks to this perk.

That’s exactly how to redeem Kroger fuel points and save money on gas. Between regular grocery shopping, bonus fuel point offers, digital coupons, gift cards, and our two-car pump trick, the savings really add up.

If you’re already shopping at Kroger, fuel points are one of the easiest ways to lower your gas bill without changing your routine. Here are 8 other ways to save at Kroger – in addition to this fuel points strategy.

Do you have any tips or tricks for earning or redeeming Kroger fuel points?

The post How to Redeem Kroger Fuel Points appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

I have been creating custom Oh, the Places You’ll Go books for over a decade now. Adding Bible verses to a classic children’s book to make it a truly unique gift is a joy of mine.

While this Christian version of Oh, the Places You’ll Go is my most popular book – especially for graduates – it got me to thinking about other options that I have added over the years. That’s why I created this inspirational quote based version, as well as this wedding version.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

It started when my brother was getting married several years ago. I wanted to give him a custom Christian wedding gift. I decided to adapt my regular Christian graduation version of Dr. Seuss’s Oh the Places You’ll Go and turn it into a Christian wedding version.

This book is perfect for couples getting married because they are beginning a new journey as a married couple with many adventures ahead. If the newlyweds likes travel (like my brother and his wife) then it works even better!

I never alter the original text of a story, but choose to simply add Bible verses that enrich the story. Like this…

I wanted to choose Bible verses that complemented the classic story we know and love, as well as choose Bible verses that spoke about love and marriage. I used some Bible verses that used in my graduation version because the verses fit so well with the story. I also traded out over a third of them to focus specifically on marriage. My Pastor Dad suggested a couple, and I did the rest.

Each Bible verse I tucked into the illustrations of the book so they Bible verses complemented the story. I didn’t want to take away from the classic story but rather add to it.

I was so pleased with how it turned out, as was my brother, and the many couples who have since received the book. This is truly a one of a kind custom gift – that works for an engagement gift, a wedding shower gift or a traditional wedding gift.

If you are interested in creating or giving a special wedding gift like this, I have two options available for you!

I now write and sell these custom wedding books in my Etsy shop. When you purchase the book, I will write all the Bible verses for you inside the book. I will also include the bride and groom’s name inside the front cover with the first inscription and Bible verse.

You can purchase a custom wedding book here.

If you would like to write the book yourself, I also sell a digital download of all the verses I use as well as on what pages to write them. This allows you to purchase a hardcover book of Oh, the Places You’ll Go yourself, and add the Bible verses in your handwriting.

You can purchase the digital download guide here.

If you are going to create the book yourself, feel free to buy a copy wherever you find the best sale. This is the book I use and order. As for pens, it is important to also use an acid free pen so the verses will not fade over the year. I use these Paper Mate Flair pens for every single Dr. Seuss book I write and they work perfectly every time.

The next time you need a special gift for a Christian couple who is getting married, I hope you remember this idea! It is truly one of my favorite wedding gifts – because this is a gift you will not find on any registry!

The post Christian Wedding Gift with Oh the Places You’ll Go for Couples appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

Over a dozen years ago now, I shared one of my favorite ideas – how to add Bible verses to the classic Dr. Seuss book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go.” This is still one of my most popular posts every year for good reason.

It takes a classic story and enriches it with a faith a component. I have put various spins on it over the years, but now? Recently I created what might become my new favorite Dr. Seuss book, and I am so excited to share it with you!

It’s this new inspirational version of Oh, the Places You’ll Go.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

This inspirational quote-based version of Oh, the Places You’ll Go pairs each page with a thoughtfully chosen quote designed to uplift, encourage, and inspire the reader. Each quote is carefully tucked into the illustrations so it becomes a natural part of the story.

I used motivational quotes like this famous Thomas Edison one, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.”

I chose quotes that will encourage like this one from Anthony Robbins – “The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.”

Each quote was carefully chosen to complement the story, encourage the reader, and remind them that anything is possible – wherever they go in life.

Oh the Places You’ll Go is already a classic for good reason. But adding these quotes to the book? It transforms this book into a truly unforgettable keepsake that will be cherished for years to come.

Anyone can buy and give a Dr. Seuss book as a graduation gift. But adding quotes that will speak to the reader even more? Truly priceless!

Who This Inspirational Book Is Perfect For:

• Graduates of any age (high school, college, graduate or even kindergarten)
• Teachers gifting a meaningful end-of-year keepsake
• Parents looking for a special encouragement book
• Anyone celebrating a new season: graduation, retirement, new job, or life change

What Makes This Inspirational Version of Oh, the Places You’ll Go So Special?

• Carefully chosen inspirational quotes paired with each page
• Quotes that encourage and motivate
• Option to personalize the book with a name
• A keepsake designed to be read again and again
• A unique alternative to generic graduation gifts

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift that will be treasured for years, this inspirational version of Oh, the Places You’ll Go is a beautiful choice.

You can order the completed book directly from my Etsy shop, or choose the printable version if you’d like to create it yourself.

I sell a finished copy of this inspirational quote based Dr. Seuss book in my Etsy shop. I am happy to write it and create it for you.

You can order the original quote based version of the book here.

If you want an extra special touch, I also have the same quote based version that I created but I add the name of your choice to several of the quotes (the ones where it fits best) throughout the book to make it extra personal.

Personalize and order the name motivational version here.

Or, if you would like to write and create this book yourself. I also created a digital download of all the quotes I use and phrases from the book so you know on what page to write the quote. Note: This is NOT a physical product or the book. It is a pdf file of all the quotes I use so you can purchase the book wherever you choose and write the quotes in the book yourself. It’s a frugal DIY option for those who want it.

You buy the digital download here.

All of these options result in a truly memorable gift that people will love and cherish.

Wondering a bit more? Here’s a couple more things I am commonly asked.

I am truly excited to share this motivational version with you, and I hope you love the idea as much as I do! See more examples of this quote based book on Etsy here.

This is more than a book – it’s a reminder of possibility, encouragement, and hope. If you’re looking for a unique graduation gift or inspirational keepsake, this version of Oh, the Places You’ll Go is designed to be cherished for years to come.

Who do you know that would love to receive this special gift?

Looking for other unique Christian books like this one?

I have developed custom Christian books for…

• Oh, the Places You’ll Go (Christian Bible verse version – the original, bestseller that started it all)
• Inspirational Oh, the Places You’ll Go (Uses quotes instead of Bible verses – motivational non-religious version)
• Oh, the Places You’ll Go (Christian Wedding version)
• Guess How Much I’ll Love You (Love Bible verses added to every page which makes a perfect baby gift)
• The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be (A beautifully inspiring book by Joanna Gaines – perfect for Christian graduates)
• I Wish You More (Sweet children’s story of dreams we have for our kids with Biblical encouragement)
• The Christmas Promise (Adds Luke 2 to a beautiful Christmas story)
• Dozens of Other Children’s Book Downloads in My Etsy Shop here

The post Inspirational Version of Oh the Places You’ll Go appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

Is there any better flavor combination than peanut butter and chocolate? It’s one of those perfect flavor combinations. I recently realized that many of my favorite dessert recipes are those with both chocolate and peanut butter.

Buckeyes? Check. Peanut butter rice Krispie treats with chocolate on top? Check again. This amazingly decadent buckeye cake? Check, check and check.

As much as I love the flavor of peanut butter and chocolate, I also love easy dessert recipes. So if I can combine these two loves? I am there for it, and I bet you will be too!

I was amazed at how many different chocolate and peanut butter dessert recipes I found with 3, 4 or 5 ingredients. Every single recipe on this list is under 5 ingredients. Nothing complicated. Just short ingredient lists so you can make a delicious dessert in a hurry.

Ready? Let’s get to all the easy dessert recipes! I hope you find a new peanut butter and chocolate favorite – or two!

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Peanut Butter & Chocolate Buckeyes

This is the classic chocolate and peanut butter recipe. It’s a perfectly formed peanut butter ball rolled and dipped in chocolate. This is my family’s recipe that gets rave reviews any time I make these balls. And I promise that they are easier than you may think!

Get the full recipe at Joyfully Thriving.

Peanut Cluster Candies (So Easy!)

This is one of the easiest and best tasting chocolate combinations. It uses peanuts, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips and peanut butter chips to form a delicious candy. Even better? You mix this up so quickly on your stove or in the microwave and it makes a huge batch!

Get the full recipe at Joyfully Thriving.

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

A good peanut butter bar is always a hit at potlucks or when entertaining. This version is completely a no bake recipe using only 5 ingredients.

Get the full recipe at Live Well, Bake Often.

Buckeye Fudge

If you love buckeyes, try making this 5 ingredient buckeye fudge. It uses half and half to make a peanut butter layer topped with chocolate fudge. Yum!

Get the full recipe from Princess Pinky Girl.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies

Yes, this is a brownie recipe with only 5 ingredients – 2 of them being peanut butter and cocoa to give you the flavor combination you’ve been craving in a hurry!

Get the full recipe from Aly’s Sweet and Savory Food.

Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate Crust

I love an easy pie recipe like this one! This is a quickly made peanut butter pie that is poured in an Oreo crust. Your family will love this peanut butter pie!

Get the full pie recipe from It’s Always Autumn.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Cups

While a classic rice krispy treat is good, one that adds peanut butter and chocolate? That’s even better in my book. This version flavors the peanut butter with honey instead of sugar for an individual sized peanut butter treat.

Get the full recipe from The Cookin’ Chicks.

5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

A peanut butter ball recipe is always a classic. This one makes the peanut butter ball with peanut butter and powdered sugar as its base before dipping the entire ball in the chocolate of your choosing.

Get the recipe from Everything Anika.

Healthy Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

Here’s a twist on the classic peanut butter ball. This one uses a basic store bought granola as the base of the ball, mixed in with peanut butter and dipped in a rich dark chocolate. Yum!

Get the full recipe from The Baker Mama.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

A 5 ingredient peanut butter cookie with chocolate chips? Yes, please! I love that this recipe only uses basic baking ingredients which everyone has in their pantry.

Get the full recipe from Taffey Bakery.

Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

If you like Reese’s peanut butter cups, try this healthy 5 ingredient version made with coconut oil. It’s a great way to get your chocolate and peanut butter fix!

Get the full recipe from Chef Savvy.

5 Ingredient Snickers Chocolate Bark

Not only is it a short list of ingredients, but it’s also a vegan friendly recipe featuring date caramel to add sweetness to your chocolate and peanuts.

Get the full recipe at Minimalist Baker.

Peanut Butter Swirl Fudge

This fudge has the delicious chocolate and peanut butter flavor and swirls the two together for a treat that looks and tastes amazing.

Get the full recipe from Sprinkle Bakes.

Peanut Butter Fudge (No Bake)

This fudge is a peanut butter fudge topped with Reese peanut butter cups, which makes for a different chocolate and peanut butter combination.

Get the full recipe at Midwestern Home Life.

No Bake Oatmeal Cookies

Here’s a healthy version of the traditional oatmeal cookies made with oats, peanut butter and maple syrup. Stir in chocolate chips for the classic peanut butter and chocolate flavor.

Get the full recipe at The Big Man’s World.

Easy Reese’s Bark

Only 4 ingredients needed for this delicious tasting and looking bark. Using chocolate chips of your choice plus peanut butter for the bark with Reese cups and Reese Pieces on top makes for a truly decadent chocolate and peanut treat.

Get the full bark recipe from Flavorful Dishes.

Puppy Chow / Muddy Buddies (Best Recipe!)

Here is a classic peanut butter and chocolate combination. Whether you call it puppy chow or muddy buddies, it is delicious. Even better? Only 5 ingredients and you can make it ahead of time and freeze for whenever you need a chocolate treat to enjoy.

Get the full recipe at Joyfully Thriving.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

Only 3 ingredients needed for this quick and easy treat – peanut butter, chocolate and rice krispy cereal. Yum!

Get the full recipe at Rachl Mansfield.

3 Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

This easy fudge recipes skips sweetened condensed milk or other sweeteners, and uses just peanut butter, chocolate and peanuts.

Get the full recipe from Dietitian Debbie.

4 Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

This fudge recipe combines chocolate and peanut butter with honey and peanut butter cups. So many different fudge options and they all look delicious!

Get the full recipe at Rachl Mansfield.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake

No flour needed to make this quick mug cake! If you’ve never made a mug cake before, it’s an easy way to make an individual dessert. Only 4 ingredients needed for this one – and no flour!

Get the full recipe at Kirbie’s Cravings.

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Here’s a healthy energy bite recipe that uses dates (no sugar needed) to make chocolate peanut butter energy bars. Only 5 ingredients needed for this peanut butter recipe.

Get the full recipe from Jessica in the Kitchen.

Healthy Peanut Butter Energy Bites

This version of the no bake energy bites uses only 4 ingredients – including honey as a sweetener. Oats, peanut butter and chocolate chips are the other ingredients needed.

Get the full recipe at Healthy Liv.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Craving chocolate and peanut butter? Try making these easy cookies – only 4 ingredients needed! That’s an easy cookie recipe indeed.

Get the full cookie recipe at Gimme Some Oven.

Milk Chocolate Tart with Peanut Butter Pretzel Crust

This recipe combines sweet and salty as well as the chocolate and peanut butter flavor. It’s a 4 ingredient no bake tart recipe, that uses peanut butter and pretzels for the crust, plus milk chocolate and cream for the filling.

Get the full recipe from Keep It Sweet Desserts.

There you have it! So many quick and easy peanut butter and chocolate dessert options. Now the question is – which one will you try first?

The post 25 Easy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Desserts (5 Ingredients or Less) appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.

I don’t know about you, but every time we visited either of my Grandmas, there were always fresh baked cookies, rolls, breads and treats. Both of my wonderful Grandmas baked to show their love. I am much the same way now! No time was this more obvious than the Christmas season when the baking increased all that more!

For that reason, I compiled some of the cookie recipes I learned from my Grandma’s, as well as other Grandma’s favorite recipes around for this traditional Christmas cookie roundup.

These Christmas cookies are all simple, traditional, and perfect for baking with your kids or grandkids during the holidays. If you are looking for a new Christmas cookie recipe – that tastes just like the ones you remember from your childhood, I hope this list helps you find it!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

McCall’s Sour Cream Cookies

These buttery drop cookies are made with sour cream for extra softness. This vintage recipe is easy and makes a big batch of cookies.

Get the full recipe from 12 Tomatoes here.

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (No Chill Needed)

These easy-to-roll sugar cookies hold their shape well and are perfect for decorating with little ones. Simple pantry ingredients make them affordable and festive for any season. While they are not my Grandma’s recipe, it is hands down the best roll out sugar cookie recipe I have ever tried.

Get the full recipe from Joyfully Thriving.

Grandma’s Date Pinwheels

Date pinwheels are a classic icebox cookie made with sweet dates and a spiced dough. This make-ahead recipe is a nostalgic favorite and stretches your ingredients.

Get the full recipe from Frugal Hausfrau.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are often made all year long but some still like the simple classics for Christmas. This is a tried-and-true recipe that uses cold butter and classic ingredients for chewy, comforting cookies just like Grandma made.

Get the full recipe at Kitchen Parade here.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

These bakery-style cookies are easy enough for kids to help mix and full of rich chocolate flavor. This 1939 recipe is truly a classic one!

Get the full recipe from April J Harris.

Candy Cane Cookies (A True Holiday Classic)

One of my personal favorites are these candy cane cookies which my Grandma used to bake each Christmas. She taught my father who taught me to roll these delicious cookies who taught me! These cookies look like candy canes, but are flavored with almond extract! It really is the best dough combination, and easier to roll then you may think.

Get the full recipe at Joyfully Thriving here.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Iconic and easy, these sugar-coated peanut butter cookies topped with a chocolate kiss are always a hit with kids and adults alike. What grandma didn’t make these over the years?

Get the recipe from Mom on Timeout.

Grandma’s Oatmeal Cookies (Always a Classic)

Soft, chewy oatmeal cookies made are always a classic – year round! Even better, this Grandma’s recipe is made with only a few simple ingredients from the pantry.

Get the full recipe from Simply Recipes here.

Sand Tarts

These delicate, buttery cookies are really a very thin sugar cookie and a nostalgic addition to your holiday table. If you like thin sugar cookies, try this Nana’s recipe!

Get the full recipe from Eat Picks.

Potato Chip Cookies

This is definitely a passed down recipe! Sweet and salty with a bit of crunch, these vintage cookies are a clever way to use up pantry staples.

Get the full recipe from Erica’s Recipes.

Ginger Cookies (Or Gingersnaps)

Molasses spiced cookies are truly an old fashioned classic. With a crispy outside and tender center, this is an old fashioned family recipe everyone loves.

Get the full recipe from Dash of Sanity.

Buckeyes (Yummy Peanut Butter Balls)

From my mother’s side of the family, I learned to make buckeyes. Buckeyes are one of those simple but amazing candies that everyone (and I mean everyone!) loves. Only 5 ingredients are needed to make these delicious peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate. We make these every single Christmas.

Get the full recipe with tips and tricks from Joyfully Thriving.

Old Fashioned Holiday Cut Out Cookies

Here’s another classic cookie recipe passed down from generations. This large-batch recipe freezes well and makes cookies perfect for decorating with the whole family.

Get the full recipe from Mom Makes Joy.

Italian Anise Cookies

These rounded and glazed cookies often appear on holiday cookie platters. If you are not sure about the taste of anise in a cookie, this recipe makes a smaller batch with only 18 cookies so you can try it before you make a huge batch.

Get the full recipe at My Cookie Journey.

Snickerdoodles (Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookie)

Snickerdoodles are always a classic! These cinnamon-sugar cookies crackle on top and stay soft inside. They’re cozy, classic, and easy to make.

Get the full recipe at Foodie with Family.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

I don’t typically like raisins in my cookies unless it’s the classic oatmeal spiced cookie like this one. Packed with oats and raisins, these delicious cookies have been a classic for many families.

Get the full recipe from Entirely Elizabeth.

Jam Jams (Molasses Sandwich Cookies)

Soft molasses cookies filled with jam, these are a treasured treat that feel special but are easy to make. You can also use whatever flavor of jam you choose to make these cookies.

Get the full recipe from Lazy Spoon Farms here.

Thumbprint Cookies

Here’s another holiday cookie we probably all remember Grandma making! This buttery cookie base is topped with a dollop of jam in the center – simple, pretty, and perfect for the holidays.

Get the full recipe from Sugar Spun Run.

No-Bake Chocolate Oat Cookies

These chocolate and oat cookies come together on the stovetop – no oven needed and great for last-minute baking! I bake these cookies year round…including for the holidays!

Get the full recipe from Joyfully Thriving.

Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes)

Sometimes called Mexican wedding cookies or yes, Russian tea cakes, these snowball cookies are a classic. Covered in powdered sugar and filled with nuts, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a holiday favorite.

Get the full recipe from To Simply Inspire here.

Pudding Mix Cookies (Only 5 Ingredients)

This is one of those super easy cookies that everyone loves. Using boxed pudding mix, these soft cookies are easy, inexpensive, and endlessly customizable. We typically make them with a yellow cake mix and chocolate chips but you can adapt this recipe with any cake mix of your choosing!

Get the full recipe from Joyfully Thriving.

Linzer Cookies (Spitzbuben)

Tender butter cookies sandwiched with jam and dusted with powdered sugar are a festive holiday cookie. Traditionally a German recipe, this is a Christmas cookie favorite.

Get the full recipe from Dirndl Kitchen.

Ginger Drops Cookies

If you are looking for a ginger and molasses flavor in a simple cookie, try these old fashioned ginger drops. It’s a very simple recipe that makes a delicious spiced cookie.

Get the full recipe from Under a Tin Roof.

Old-Fashioned Shortbread Cookies

Just five ingredients make these rich, crumbly cookies that taste like they came straight from Grandma’s cookie tin. They are also topped with a cherry in the middle for a cheerful, Christmas look and unique flavor.

Get the full recipe from Rock Recipes.

Amish Sugar Cookies

These soft, puffy cookies don’t require rolling or chilling – great for busy days and big batches. If you want to bake a lot of cookies quickly this holiday season, try these deliciously soft drop sugar cookies.

Get the full recipe at The Gold Lining Girl.

Classic Vanilla Cookies

These simple, chewy vanilla cookies are made with everyday ingredients and bake up fast – perfect for filling the cookie jar.

Get the full recipe from Cloudy Kitchen.

Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

These classic cookies come together quickly and have that signature criss-cross top. They’re perfect for making with kids and are a frugal pantry favorite.

Get the full cookie recipe from Boston Girl Bakes.

Danish Butter Cookies

These traditional cookies are often bought at the holidays but they are actually simple to bake using a piping bag! They have a classic butter taste everyone loves.

Get the full recipe from Adamant Kitchen.

Moravian Spice Cookies

Incredibly thin and crisp, these molasses flavored cookies are a flavorful holiday treat. If you have the patience for rolling thin cookies, give these holiday cookies a try.

Get the full recipe from What a Girl Eats.

Hallongrotta (Swedish Raspberry Thumbprints)

These buttery cookies have a sweet raspberry jam center and are a favorite at Scandinavian Christmas tables. They are also very easy to bake!

Get the full recipe from the Scandinavian Cookbook here.

Classic Spritz Cookies

These pressed cookies are delicate, buttery, and perfect for decorating. They’ve been a favorite since the 1950s and are still a hit today.

Get the full recipe from Joyfully Thriving.

Grandma’s Christmas Cookies

Made with cherries and nuts, this is another family recipe that has been passed down and enjoyed by any generations. If you are looking for a different Christmas cookie to try, try this one!

Get the full cookie recipe from Fantabulosity.

Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

If you like shortbread cookies, try this twist on a shortbread – by adding chocolate chips and rolling them into balls. A delicious and soft shortbread cookie, this is another family favorite in our house!

Get the full cookie recipe from Joyfully Thriving.

Happy holiday baking! Do you have a favorite Christmas cookie memory or recipe from your Grandma?

The post 33 Traditional Christmas Cookies Like Grandma Would Make appeared first on Joyfully Thriving.