There’s something about a classic old-fashioned coffee cake that never goes out of style. It’s simple, comforting, and one of those recipes that always seems to bring people together, whether it’s a quiet morning at home or something you’re bringing along to share.

This is the kind of cake that’s perfect for slow mornings with a cup of coffee, but it’s just as great for entertaining, potlucks, or having something homemade on hand when friends or family stop by. It’s made with simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and it comes together quickly without a lot of effort.

What I love most about this recipe is how dependable it is. It bakes up soft and tender every time, with that classic cinnamon flavor that feels familiar and comforting. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it perfect to enjoy with coffee, and it has just the right balance of texture and flavor that keeps you coming back for another slice.

It’s also one of those recipes that works for just about any occasion. You can make it for a cozy weekend morning, serve it when guests come over, or bring it along to a gathering knowing it’s something everyone will enjoy. It’s simple, reliable, and always a favorite.

If you’re looking for an easy, classic bake that feels both nostalgic and comforting, this old-fashioned coffee cake is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Old-Fashioned Coffee Cake

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• Author: Jenn (Mother Thyme)

Ingredients

• Filling
• 1 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• Cake
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
• In a small bowl mix together brown sugar and cinnamon and set aside.
• In a large bowl mix together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt and set aside.
• In a medium bowl mix together eggs, milk, vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
• Mix wet ingredients into flour mixture and stir until combined.
• Pour about half the batter into prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle with half of the brown sugar/cinnamon mixture.
• Top with remaining batter and then sprinkle remaining brown sugar/cinnamon mixture on top.
• Baking on center rack for 35 minutes, or until cake tester comes out clean.

Notes

When layering the batter over the brown sugar and cinnamon, I found it works best to dollop the batter across the top and then gently spread it out, rather than trying to pour and spread all at once.

I also like to use a little less than half of the batter for the bottom layer so there’s a bit more to work with on top. The batter is thick, so it may pull slightly as you spread it, that’s completely normal. Just do your best to gently spread it out, then sprinkle the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the top.

Once it bakes, everything comes together beautifully, so it doesn’t need to be perfect.

I have also made the batter in 1 bowl and it turns out just as good. Mix the wet ingredients in a large bowl first, then add dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder and salt) and mix until combined.

The post Old-Fashioned Coffee Cake first appeared on Mother Thyme.

This simple homemade granola is one of those recipes I always like to have on hand. It’s made with basic, everyday ingredients, comes together in about 20 minutes, and gives you a perfectly crisp, lightly sweet granola that works for just about anything.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. It’s meant to be a base, something you can keep in a jar and build on depending on what you’re in the mood for. Add fresh fruit, a handful of chocolate chips, nuts, coconut flakes, or even sprinkle it over yogurt or oatmeal for a little extra texture and crunch. It’s just as good by the handful as it is layered into a breakfast bowl.

One of the things that makes this granola so quick and easy is using quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats. I like to use Bob’s Red Mill quick oats. The smaller oats bake up faster and give you that really nice crisp texture, along with those little clusters that make homemade granola so satisfying. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference in both texture and bake time.

You can absolutely customize this recipe however you’d like, but I prefer to keep it simple so it stays versatile. It’s an easy, reliable recipe that you can make ahead, keep on hand, and use in so many different ways throughout the week.

Ways to Enjoy This Granola

One of my favorite things about keeping a jar of this on hand is how many different ways you can use it. It’s perfect sprinkled over yogurt with fresh berries for a quick breakfast, or layered into a simple yogurt parfait when you want something that feels a little more special. You can add it to smoothie bowls for extra texture, enjoy it with milk like a cereal, or even just grab a handful when you want a quick, satisfying snack. It also makes a great topping for oatmeal or baked fruit when you want to add a little crunch.

Quick Tips for the Best Granola

– Use quick oats for texture: Quick oats bake up faster and create those crisp little clusters that give this granola its signature crunch.  

– Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on it toward the end, granola can go from perfectly golden to too dark quickly. I also like to give it a little stir about halfway.

– Let it cool completely: This is key for getting those little clusters. It will crisp up more as it cools.  

– Customize after baking: I like to keep the base simple and add things like dried fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts after it cools so everything stays fresh and doesn’t burn in the oven.  

– Store it simply: Keep it in an airtight jar on the counter so it’s easy to grab and use throughout the week.

This is one of those simple, go-to recipes that once you make it, you’ll always want a batch ready to go.

Simple Homemade Granola

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• Author: Jenn (Mother Thyme)

Ingredients

• 4 cup quick oats
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 3–4 tablespoons light brown sugar or brown coconut sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of cinnamon

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a large bowl toss together all the ingredients until coated.
• Spread evenly in a single layer on prepared baking sheet.
• Drizzle with a little more maple syrup and sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top.
• Bake on the center rack for 10 minutes.
• Gently toss and then continue to baking for another 10-15 minutes longer until toasted.
• Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before mixing.
• Once cooled store in an airtight container.

The post Simple Homemade Granola first appeared on Mother Thyme.

This breakfast mocha smoothie really has a little bit of everything. Made with espresso, chocolate, peanut butter, banana, and protein powder, it’s creamy, indulgent, and perfect for starting the day on a cozy note.

It has that rich, coffeehouse-style flavor you’d expect from a mocha, but blended into a simple smoothie that comes together quickly and keeps you feeling satisfied. The banana adds just the right amount of natural sweetness, while the peanut butter and protein powder make it a little more filling, something that actually holds you over, not just a quick sip on the go.

Whether you’re easing into a quiet morning at home or need something quick before the day gets busy, this smoothie is an easy go-to that feels both comforting and satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that feels a bit like a treat, but is still simple enough to make part of your everyday routine.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN

I like to use non-fat Fairlife milk in this smoothie for an extra boost of protein without adding a lot of extra calories. It makes it a little more filling and is a great option if you’re trying to add more protein into your day. That said, you can easily swap in whatever milk you have on hand, almond milk, oat milk, or regular milk all work well here.

If you like your smoothies a little thicker and colder, adding a handful of ice is a great option. You can also sprinkle in a little chia seeds or flax seeds for an added boost of fiber and nutrition without changing the flavor.

Freezing Bananas

I also like to keep sliced bananas in the freezer just for smoothies like this. If I have bananas that are getting a little too ripe, I’ll slice them up, lay them on a baking sheet to freeze, and then transfer them to a freezer bag so I always have some on hand. Using frozen banana not only adds natural sweetness, but it also helps create that thick, creamy texture, almost like adding ice, but without watering anything down.

Peanut Butter

For the peanut butter, I’m just using a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter powder, which adds a little extra creaminess and just a hint of flavor without overpowering the smoothie. It blends really nicely with the chocolate and espresso, but it’s definitely not the main flavor here.

If you don’t have it on hand or prefer not to use it, you can absolutely leave it out. You can even add a little extra cocoa powder if you’d like to lean more into the chocolate flavor. This is one of those recipes that’s really easy to adjust based on what you have and what you like.

Protein Powder

For protein powder, I like using FlavCity because it’s made with good, simple ingredients and includes a great source of protein along with collagen. It blends really well into this smoothie and keeps it nice and creamy.

Blender

While you can use any blender for this recipe, I love using a personal blender because it makes everything so quick and convenient. I’ve been using the Ninja Blast Blender, and it’s been such an easy option for everyday smoothies. It’s rechargeable, so there’s no need to plug it in, and you can easily take it on the go.

All you have to do is add your ingredients, blend, and you’re done. It doesn’t take up much space and makes it really simple to throw together a smoothie without pulling out a larger blender. I’ll link it HERE if you’re looking for a convenient option.

Breakfast Mocha Smoothie

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• Author: Jenn (Mother Thyme)
• Yield: 1 smoothie

Ingredients

• Shot of espresso
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 medium sliced frozen banana
• Scoop of vanilla protein powder
• 2 tablespoons PB Fit peanut butter powder
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• Ice
• A dash of stevia, optional
• Optional – sprinkle in chia seeds, milled flax seeds for additional nutrients and fiber.

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Instructions

Add all ingredients to blender. If using frozen banana you can add a little extra ice if desired, if using a fresh banana add 1/3 cup or so of ice and blend until smooth and creamy.

Notes

• I use a shot of espresso from my Nespresso machine. Stok also sells an espresso if you don’t have an espresso machine.
• My go-to vanilla protein powder is FlavCity. You can find it HERE.
• I add a dash of NOW liquid stevia. You can find it HERE.
• If you don’t have frozen banana, you can use a fresh banana and add ice.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. There is no cost to you as the customer to use these links. Thanks for shopping these links the support my site.

The post Breakfast Mocha Smoothie first appeared on Mother Thyme.

There’s something about the warm scent of cinnamon baking in the oven that instantly makes a home feel cozy. This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is one of those simple desserts that fills the kitchen with the most comforting aroma and tastes just as delicious as it smells.

If you love cinnamon rolls but don’t always have the time to make them from scratch, this cake is the perfect solution. It starts with a simple white cake base that gets poked all over and filled with a creamy cinnamon roll filling.

The cake is topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting that tastes just like the icing on a classic cinnamon roll. The frosting is light, creamy, and slightly tangy, which balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

This is the kind of dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weekend treat, bringing it to a gathering, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee in the afternoon, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you end up with a dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels a little extra special without being complicated, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is one you’ll definitely want to add to your baking list.

If you give this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake a try, I hope it becomes one of those cozy recipes you come back to again and again. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for those moments when you want to fill your home with the warm smell of something sweet baking in the oven. And if you’d like to see this cake come together along with a few cozy moments around my home, be sure to watch the full video on YouTube. It’s the perfect little slice of cozy you can enjoy with a cup of coffee and something sweet.

Watch

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

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• Author: Jenn (Mother Thyme)
• Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Cake

• 1 box white cake mix – plus ingredients for cake listed on box

Filling

• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 4 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Frosting

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 block (8 oz.) cream cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

• Prepare and bake cake according to package directions in a greased 9×13 pan. Set aside to cool completely.
• In a medium bowl mix together sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter and cinnamon until blended and set aside.
• Poke holes all over cake with the bottom of a wooden spoon.
• Pour filling over cake pushing filling into holes with a spatula.
• In a large mixing bowl beat heavy cream with a mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
• In a separate bowl beat together cream cheese and butter until blended.
• Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
• Fold in whipped cream until combined.
• Top cake with frosting.
• Refrigerate until ready to serve.

The post Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake first appeared on Mother Thyme.

There’s something so comforting about a simple one-pan meal simmering on the stove, especially on days when I’m moving around the house working on little projects. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with the most wonderful aroma while you go about your day.

This Smoked Sausage with White Beans and Herbs is one of those recipes that feels hearty and cozy, but still light enough for this time of year when we’re starting to welcome the first hints of spring. The smoked sausage adds wonderful depth of flavor, while the white beans create a rich, almost creamy base that feels comforting without being heavy.

I love recipes like this because they come together in one pan with just a handful of simple ingredients. A little garlic, herb seasoning blend, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of parmesan bring everything together in the most delicious way.

It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or even something cozy to enjoy on a slow afternoon at home. Top with croutons, either store bought or homemade to soak up the creamy broth and you have the most satisfying meal.

What I especially love about this dish is how it feels both rustic and fresh at the same time. The beans make it hearty and comforting, while the herbs and lemon keep it bright and balanced.

If you’re looking for a simple one-pot meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make, this is definitely one to keep in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan meal – Everything comes together in a single skillet which makes cooking and cleanup simple.

• Cozy but not heavy – The white beans give the dish a comforting, hearty feel while the herbs and lemon keep it light and fresh.

• Full of flavor – Smoked sausage adds incredible depth while garlic, herbs, and parmesan bring everything together.

• Simple ingredients – This recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients you may already have on hand or easy ingredients you can swap, substitute or even omit.

• Perfect for busy days – It comes together quickly, making it great for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch at home.

Smoked Sausage with White Beans and Herbs

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• Author: Jenn (Mother Thyme)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 package (12 oz) cooked smoked sausage, sliced about 1/4 thick slices
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth or chicken bone broth
• 1 1/2 teaspoon rustic herb seasoning*
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 – 1 cup frozen chopped spinach (or a few handfuls of fresh spinach)
• 2 cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 block garlic and fine herbs Boursin cheese (or 3 ounces of whipped chive cream cheese)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 1/2 cups croutons
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add sliced sausage and cook in a single layer about 4-5 minutes per side until browned on each side.
• Transfer sausage to a plate.
• Add remaining olive oil and garlic and cook until garlic is fragrant, about a minute.
• Stir in broth, seasoning blend, garlic powder and spinach and cook until broth is heated through.
• Mash about 1/2 cup of beans and stir into liquid then add in remaining beans.
• Cut Boursin into chunks and stir into skillet until melted.
• Add sausage back into skillet and stir.
• Remove skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• To serve, spoon into serving bowls and top with crouton before serving.

Notes

Any type of seasoning blend will work such as  TJ’s 21 Seasoning Salute, Tastefully Simple Rustic Herb Seasoning,  Italian Seasoning or just dried thyme.

 

The post Smoked Sausage with White Beans and Herbs first appeared on Mother Thyme.

If you love decorating for Valentine’s Day in a more simple, vintage-inspired way, these little flash cards are such an easy addition.

I created this set of vintage-style Valentine’s Day flash cards as a quick and cozy way to add a subtle Valentine touch without anything feeling too bold or overdone. They’re neutral, timeless, and designed to blend right in with your everyday decor.

What’s Included

This free printable includes a set of 6 vintage-style flash cards, inspired by old dictionary pages and classic schoolroom cards.

The words included are:

• february

• cupid

• valentine

• heart

• love

• sweetheart

Each card is sized to print at 8 1/2 x 3 inches, making them perfect for styling in small spaces throughout your home.

Watch Here

How to Use the Flash Cards

These are meant to be simple and effortless, no crafting experience needed.

Just:

1. Download the printable

2. Print (cardstock works best, but regular paper is fine too)

3. Cut them out

4. Tuck them into your Valentine’s Day decor

They’re especially pretty styled in:

• Pie safes or cabinets

• Open shelving

• Crocks, bowls, or baskets

• Trays, mantels, or tabletop displays

They pair beautifully with vintage wood, stoneware, ironstone, and other neutral decor pieces.

A Simple Way to Decorate for the Season

I love seasonal decorating that feels easy and collected, not overwhelming. These flash cards are a simple way to acknowledge the season while keeping your home feeling calm and cozy. They’re subtle enough to use year after year and work well layered in with other Valentine DIYs.

Download the Free Printable

You can download the free vintage-style Valentine’s Day flash cards below. Enter your name and email below, and I’ll send the printable straight to your inbox! If you’re already on my email list, don’t worry — you won’t be added again, just your printables will be delivered.

I hope these add a sweet, vintage touch to your Valentine’s Day decor. If you use them, I’d love to see how you style them in your home.

The post Vintage-Style Valentine’s Day Flash Cards – Free Printable first appeared on Mother Thyme.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to add a few handmade touches around the house, and these cottage-style Love Letters are just the thing! They’re easy to print, sweet to tuck into pillows or gift baskets, and bring a little handmade charm to your Valentine’s decor.

Whether you place them in a pocket pillow, a basket, or simply leave them for someone special to find, these Love Letters are a fun way to spread a little extra joy.

Free Printable Love Letters

These Love Letters are my gift to you! Enter your name and email below, and I’ll send the printables straight to your inbox.

Already on my list? No worries—you won’t be added again. You’ll just get your free Love Letters printable!

How to Print Your Love Letters

This printable are simple to use on either paper or fabric:

• Paper: Print directly from your home printer and trim to size. Simply print, cut it out and hot glue the front along with another sheet of paper for the baking leaving an opening on the top to add a little stuffing. With the paper bowl filler you don’t want to add a lot of stuffing. I just used regular copy paper. I then hot glue the top shut and hot glued a button to the back for an added touch. So if you prefer to print on paper you can easily do so and they are just as cute!

• Fabric (for pillows or pocket projects):

1. Cut a piece of lightweight muslin slightly smaller than a sheet of printer paper.

2. Use a spray adhesive to lightly attach it to a regular sheet.

3. Print your Love Letters on your inkjet printer, then trim as needed. The printer I use is affordable from Walmart. You can find it HERE.

Printing on muslin gives a soft, cottage-style look that’s perfect for tucking into pillows or pockets.

I trim the front and use another piece of muslin for the backing attaching them together with hot glue leaving an opening at the top to add some stuffing. I like to use a bigger piece of fabric for the backing, then after I add the hot glue I trim it down so the backing fits perfectly to size. Sometimes I find if I cut the backing the exact size I don’t have any wiggle room if I cut the front off a little bit or if the fabric shifts when I’m hot gluing them together. By using a larger piece then trimming it down after I hot glue the two pieces together avoids any of that. I also like to add a few drops of fragrance oil (you can find HERE) so they smell festive and then seal the envelope shut with hot glue.

You could use some pinking shears around the edge for a decorative touch as well has helps with fraying or you could just cut it like it did as I like the little frayed edges. You could also use a little bit of hairspray or fray check around the edges too. I don’t but I wanted to give you that suggestion as well.

For more of distressed look like I shared on the North Pole Envelope Bowl Filler you can use distressing wax to distress the envelopes and attach a button to the back of the envelope with hot glue. You could use paint, or I even like Distress Oxide in the color Vintage Photo.

Click HERE to get the instructions on how to make the no-sew XOXO pillow!

Watch Here

Ways to Use Your Love Letters

Here are some of my favorite ways to make these Love Letters part of your Valentine’s Day:

• Tuck them into the pocket of a Valentine pillow

• Slip them into a gift basket or treat bag

• Use as bowl filler

• Display them with mini clothespins and twine for a sweet decoration

(For inspiration, check out my Valentine’s Pocket Pillow post where you can tuck these Love Letters inside!)

How to Print on Fabric

To print on fabric you just some lightweight fabric. I used muslin fabric that I get at Hobby Lobby. I get the inexpensive muslin in the fabric section that is $3.99 a yard plus wait until it’s on sale and you can get it 40% off!

I first print the wording on a piece of copy paper so I know where the wording will print.  I cut the muslin to the size I want, spray the back of the drop cloth with some spray adhesive (I like this one you can get HERE) and attach over the wording printed on the copy paper. If you don’t want to waste ink, just cut a big enough piece of muslin to cover the paper, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edge, attach the muslin to the paper and print then cut the fabric down to the size you want.

I print as I normally would using an inkjet printer. The printer I use is affordable from Walmart. You can find it HERE.

I then attach the printed label that is printed on my no-sew pillow or whatever project I would like to use it on.

Watch How to Print on Fabric

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. There is no cost to you as the customer to use these links.

The post Cottage-Style Valentine’s Day Love Letters + Free Printable first appeared on Mother Thyme.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and I love adding little touches of charm around the house to celebrate. This cottage-style pocket pillow is a simple, no-sew project that adds a sweet, handmade touch to your decor — and the best part? The pocket is perfect for tucking in surprises, flowers, or even little love notes!

Whether you’re styling it on a cozy chair, a bench, or your favorite shelf, this pillow brings a touch of Valentine’s Day magic to any corner of your home.

Free Printable Valentine’s Pocket Design

To make this pillow extra special, I’ve created this free XOXO design that fits perfectly on your pillow pocket.

Enter your name and email below, and I’ll send the printable straight to your inbox! If you’re already on my email list, don’t worry — you won’t be added again, just your freebie will be delivered.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Fabric for pillow (I used an tablecloth)

• Fabric for pocket (muslin or cotton works beautifully)

• Fabric scissors or good scissors

• Pinking shears or fray-check if you don’t want frayed edges (I don’t use this as I prefer the distressed look)

• Fabric glue or hot glue (I use hot glue)

• Stuffing for pillow (stuffing from craft store or use stuffing out of an old pillow)

• Free printable design

• Optional: lace, buttons, or other embellishments

• Inkjet printer (to print design on fabric)

• A piece of copy paper and spray adhesive (to attach the piece of fabric to put through printer)

Watch Here

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pillow Fabric

Cut your pillow fabric to your desired size. I usually go for a 16×16” square, but you can adjust to fit your space.

2. Print and Attach Your Valentine Pocket

Print your Valentine’s pocket design on fabric and cut it out. See details below on how to print on fabric.

I printed my pocket on a 7×10 piece of muslin from Hobby Lobby.

3. Assemble the Pillow

Place right sides together and glue or stitch around the edges, leaving the top open for stuffing.

4. Stuff Your Pillow

Fill with your favorite pillow stuffing until it’s soft and plump. You can add a few dashes of essential oil if you’d like as well.

5. Attach Pocket

Used fabric glue or hot glue to attach the pock to the front of your pillow leaving the top open for the pocket. I like to attach this after the pillow is made so I can place it exactly where I want.

6. Add the Pocket Touches

Tuck in fresh flowers, tiny gifts, or even love letters! (For the love letters, check out my separate post for printable Valentine notes you can include.)

7. Optional Embellishments

Add lace trim, buttons, or other touches to give it that cozy, cottage charm.

Why You’ll Love This DIY

• Quick and simple – perfect for an afternoon project

• Adds a cozy, handmade touch to your Valentine’s decor

• Pocket allows for creative surprises and personal touches

• Makes a sweet gift for someone you love

How to Print on Fabric

To print on fabric you just some lightweight fabric. I used muslin fabric that I get at Hobby Lobby. I get the inexpensive muslin in the fabric section that is $3.99 a yard plus wait until it’s on sale and you can get it 40% off!

I first print the wording on a piece of copy paper so I know where the wording will print.  I cut the muslin to the size I want, spray the back of the drop cloth with some spray adhesive (I like this one you can get HERE) and attach over the wording printed on the copy paper. If you don’t want to waste ink, just cut a big enough piece of muslin to cover the paper, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edge, attach the muslin to the paper and print then cut the fabric down to the size you want.

I print as I normally would using an inkjet printer. The printer I use is affordable from Walmart. You can find it HERE.

I then attach the printed label that is printed on my no-sew pillow or whatever project I would like to use it on.

Watch How to Print on Fabric

Disclosure – This post contains affiliate links. There is no cost to you as the customer to use these links.

The post Cottage-Style Valentine’s Day Pocket Pillow -Free Printable! first appeared on Mother Thyme.

I love decor pieces that feel calm, collected, and easy to move around—this simple framed bird printable is one of those projects. It’s an inexpensive DIY, but it has a soft, vintage-inspired look that works beautifully on a table, shelf, or tucked into a cozy little vignette.

I used small frames for this project, but the idea is very adaptable and can be recreated with what you already have on hand.

Get the Free Bird Printable

If you’d like to make one for your own home, I’m sharing the bird printable for free when you join my email list. It’s my little thank-you for being here, and you’ll also receive occasional cozy inspiration and simple DIY ideas.

The printable comes to you as a PDF. There are 2 designs each available in 3 sizes – 4×6, 5×7 and 8×10. Simply download, print and frame.

You’re already part of our email family? Just pop in your email to get your free printable sent straight to you. No extra emails, just your printable!

What You’ll Need

• A frame (I used 5×7 frames)

• Fabric of your choice

• Frame backing

• Spray adhesive

• Bird printable (details below)

• Printer

How I Made It

I started by cutting a piece of fabric slightly larger than the frame backing. Using spray adhesive, I attached the fabric directly to the backing, smoothing it gently but not worrying about perfection. A little texture and softness adds to the charm.

Next, I assembled the frame without the glass. This gives the piece a warmer, more relaxed feel and allows the fabric and paper to show their texture.

For the bird printable, I tore the edges by hand instead of cutting them. That imperfect edge gives it a subtle, aged look that pairs so nicely with the fabric underneath. Once I was happy with the placement, I used a bit more spray adhesive to secure the printable on top of the fabric.

I used a frame from Dollar Tree and decided to give it a cozy, cottage-style look. I lightly distressed it by dry brushing FolkArt chalk paint in Cottage White, just enough so the wood grain still shows through.

That’s it! Simple, sweet, and finished in just a few minutes.

The best part is you can easily remove the print and change it out whenever you’d like – perfect for seasonal decorating!

Watch Here

Why You’ll Love This DIY

• It’s easy and beginner-friendly

• The fabric can be swapped out seasonally

• It works with thrifted, budget, or heirloom frames

• Each piece feels soft, cozy, and one of a kind

This framed bird printable is the kind of decor that doesn’t need much explanation, it quietly adds warmth wherever it’s placed.

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There’s something about a warm, hearty bowl of soup that just hits the comfort spot, especially when it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This Italian sausage tortellini soup is exactly that. It’s loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream broth.

And the best part? Every ingredient can be found at Aldi, making this an easy, affordable, and satisfying meal you can enjoy any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for busy nights, or just craving something cozy and indulgent, this soup is a winner.

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Why You’ll Love This Soup

Super Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes gives the soup a rich, velvety texture that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

Ready in Under an Hour: From start to finish, this recipe takes about 40–45 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

All Aldi Ingredients: No complicated grocery lists or specialty stores needed. Aldi’s Italian sausage, tortellini, fresh spinach, and even their sun-dried tomatoes make this recipe easy and affordable. I like to use the Aldi chicken bone broth for the extra protein but feel free to use regular chicken broth.

Flexible and Customizable: Want to swap the sausage for turkey or chicken? Add extra vegetables? Make it spicier? Totally doable.

Why Aldi Makes This Recipe Easy

Shopping at Aldi makes this recipe accessible, affordable, and convenient. From their flavorful Italian sausage to their fresh spinach and shelf-stable sun-dried tomatoes, you can get everything you need in one quick trip. Aldi’s selection of tortellini and Parmesan cheese also keeps things simple without sacrificing quality.

I hope you enjoy this yummy soup as much as we do!

Easy Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup (Aldi Ingredients)

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• Author: Jenn (Mother Thyme)
• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 20-25
• Total Time: 39 minute
• Yield: 4-6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 white onion, diced
• 1 pound ground mild Italian sausage (or hot if you like a kick)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 32 oz box chicken bone broth (or regular chicken broth)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• A few handfuls of baby spinach, roughly chopped if desired (about 1/2 a bag)
• 10 oz. three cheese tortellini
• 1/2 cup jarred sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped if desired
• salt and pepper

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Instructions

• Melt butter in a large pot over medium het.
• Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally for 4-5 minutes until softened.
• Add ground Italian sausage and cook, breaking up sausage until cooked thoroughly.
• Add minced garlic and cook for about a minute longer.
• Sprinkle flour over cooked sausage and onion, and stir to coat.
• Add in a little chicken bone broth, scraping the bottom pot to deglaze, then add remaining chicken bone broth, heavy cream and garlic powder and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in grated Parmesan, spinach, tortellini and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Season with salt and pepper and reduce heat to a low simmer until tortellini is cooked.
• Serve topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese.

The post Easy Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup (Aldi Ingredients) first appeared on Mother Thyme.