There’s something about a super colorful dessert that just makes people smile before they even take a bite! This Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake is one of those recipes- it’s bright, nostalgic, and a little bit extra in the best way. It’s great for birthdays, sleepovers, summer get-togethers, or honestly just because you’re in the mood for something fun.

It’s smooth and creamy with that classic cheesecake texture, but then you get the crunchy, buttery crust and bursts of nostalgic fruity cereal throughout. It’s no-bake, freezer-set, and surprisingly simple to make! If you grew up loving Fruity Pebbles, this one’s going to be a new favorite.

What is Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake?

Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake is a no-bake cheesecake made with crushed graham crackers and cereal in the crust, plus even more cereal folded into the creamy filling. It sets in the freezer instead of baking in the oven, which makes it especially easy. It’s even great for beginners!

The result is a sweet, creamy cheesecake with a crunchy crust and pops of fruity flavor in every bite. It’s playful, colorful, and perfect for celebrations or themed parties.

Does this cheesecake need to be baked?

Nope! This is a freezer-set cheesecake, which means no water bath, no baking, and no worrying about cracks!

After you assemble it, it just needs to chill in the freezer for at least 4 hours. I usually prefer to let it sit overnight so it’s fully set and slices cleanly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes- and I actually recommend it!

Because it needs several hours in the freezer, this is a great make-ahead dessert. It’s best to prepare it the day before your event, let it freeze overnight, and then just slice and serve when you’re ready.

Tip: If you’re serving it at a party, take it out about 10–15 minutes before slicing so it’s easier to cut!

How do I make it dairy-free?

Yes, it’s possible! You absolutely can make this dairy-free with a few swaps:

• Use dairy-free cream cheese {Philadelphia makes a great one!}
• Swap in dairy-free vanilla yogurt {any brand will do- almond, soy, coconut, whatever you prefer!}
• Replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free whipping cream alternative {Country Crock has one}
• Use a plant-based butter for the crust {any brand will do here too!}

The texture will still be creamy and smooth, and since Fruity Pebbles are already dairy-free, you’re good there. Just double-check ingredient labels on everything to be safe!

Will the cereal stay crunchy?

The cereal in the crust stays crunchy thanks to the butter binding it together. The cereal folded into the filling softens slightly as it chills, but still keeps a bit of texture.

If you want maximum crunch on top, add the final layer of Fruity Pebbles right before serving instead of before freezing.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 [8 ounce] packages cream cheese- softened
• 1 [6 ounce] container vanilla yogurt
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal
• Additional Fruity Pebbles for topping

For the Crust:

• 6 graham crackers
• 2 cups Fruity Pebbles- divided
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/3 cup butter- melted

What You’ll Need:

{These links are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission on your purchase at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!}

• 8 inch springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Blender
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Place the graham crackers and 1 cup of the Fruity Pebbles into a blender. Blend on high until you have fine crumbs.
2. Pour the crumb mixture into a bowl. Add the sugar and melted butter and stir until everything is well combined and coated in butter.
3. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of whole Fruity Pebbles and mix gently to combine.
4. Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of your springform pan. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
5. Rinse the blender. Add the softened cream cheese, vanilla yogurt, heavy cream, and vanilla. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time, pulsing between additions until fully incorporated. Add the pinch of salt and blend again.
7. Scrape down the sides with a spatula and blend one more time until completely smooth.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture into a large bowl. Fold in the 2 cups of Fruity Pebbles using a spatula.
9. Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling into the crust, smoothing the top.
10. Sprinkle additional Fruity Pebbles over the entire top of the cheesecake.
11. Cover with foil and return to the freezer for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
12. When ready to serve, remove from the freezer and let sit for 10–15 minutes. Release the springform pan and slice into 2 inch pieces.

Makes one 8 inch cheesecake. Serves 8–10.

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels a little nostalgic and a little over-the-top in the best way, this Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake is it! It’s creamy, colorful, and guaranteed to get comments when you set it down on the table. I love having options like this saved for birthdays, pool days, or anytime we want something just plain fun!

What to Try Next

Looking for more delicious recipe ideas? Try these next!

Buttermilk Honey Biscuits
Homemade Cookies & Cream Cake
Monkey Bread Muffins
Cranberry Orange Pound Cake
Apple Pie Bars
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

No Bake Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake

Yield: 8-10

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Additional Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

A colorful, no-bake Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake with a buttery cereal crust and creamy, sweet filling folded with crunchy Fruity Pebbles. This easy freezer-set dessert is perfect for birthdays, parties, and any time you want a fun, nostalgic treat.

Print

Ingredients

• For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 3 [8 ounce] packages cream cheese- softened
• 1 [6 ounce] container vanilla yogurt
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal
• Additional Fruity Pebbles for topping
• For the Crust:
• 6 graham crackers
• 2 cups Fruity Pebbles- divided
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/3 cup butter- melted

Instructions

1. Place the graham crackers and 1 cup of the Fruity Pebbles into a blender. Blend on high until you have fine crumbs.
2. Pour the crumb mixture into a bowl. Add the sugar and melted butter and stir until everything is well combined and coated in butter.
3. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of whole Fruity Pebbles and mix gently to combine.
4. Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of your springform pan. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
5. Rinse the blender. Add the softened cream cheese, vanilla yogurt, heavy cream, and vanilla. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time, pulsing between additions until fully incorporated. Add the pinch of salt and blend again.
7. Scrape down the sides with a spatula and blend one more time until completely smooth.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture into a large bowl. Fold in the 2 cups of Fruity Pebbles using a spatula.
9. Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling into the crust, smoothing the top.
10. Sprinkle additional Fruity Pebbles over the entire top of the cheesecake.
11. Cover with foil and return to the freezer for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
12. When ready to serve, remove from the freezer and let sit for 10–15 minutes. Release the springform pan and slice into 2 inch pieces.

The post No-Bake Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Recipe appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received a copy of this game to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

Last month, we received a surprise update to Animal Crossing: New Horizons- the FREE 3.0 Update. You can read all about that at my full review here, but that 3.0 update became available for free to ALL players who have the original game, unlocking all kinds of fun new features.

So what’s the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition? What’s different between this game and the original, and do you need it? Let’s dive in to learn everything you need to know about this new version of the game!

What’s new in Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?

Faster Loading Times: Everything from your initial loading screen when booting up the game to the loading screens in between going into buildings and taking flights has been shortened. As a very, very active player of this game for the last 6 years, I have spent a LOT of time looking at loading screens- and the difference in the speed is immediately apparent on the NS2 Edition! I literally used to avoid certain types of game play just because I didn’t want to keep looking at a loading screen over and over but now that it’s SO much faster, it’s literally changed the way I play.

Smoother Graphics: At normal glance, especially on handheld, you can’t tell at first sight how much better the graphics are. You can definitely feel that they’re a little more complete, but you can’t totally see the difference. But if you zoom in and compare it to the Nintendo Switch graphics, it becomes immediately apparent. Everything has been smoothed out, from the backgrounds to the characters themselves.

Megaphone: One of the most requested features is finally here- a megaphone to locate your villagers and other characters! Available at Nook’s Cranny, you can purchase a megaphone which allows you to use your actual microphone to call for your villagers. If they’re outside, a text bubble will come up guiding you to them; if they’re inside, you’ll be told as much. This makes it SO much easier to locate your villagers for daily discussions and gifting, or even for trying to get them to move away. It also helps you track down visiting NPCs who wander, like Celeste or Daisy Mae.

*Note on this: I do think this feature needs a tiny bit of work as I don’t always have success with it figuring out who I’m trying to call, no matter how clearly I speak. This seems like an easy fix that I’m hoping will come with a future update patch.

Design with Mouse Controls: Nintendo Switch 2 comes with mouse capabilities, and those are put to great use in the NS2 Edition! You can use mouse controls for creating custom designs, writing on the bulletin board, creating paths, and even designing rooms- you can even pick up and move multiple items at once!

Is the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Worth Getting?

Yes! Between the easier controls, the faster load times, the better graphics, and the megaphone, there are lots of features that make your game play even better with the new edition of the game. It’s only a $5 upgrade, so it’s more than worth it in my opinion.

How to Get Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

There are three ways to get this version of the game! {And while I’m sure this is obvious, I do want to mention that you’ll need a Nintendo Switch 2 to play it!}

If you already have Animal Crossing: New Horizons: You can download the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade for just $4.99 in the Nintendo eShop.

If you don’t already have Animal Crossing: New Horizons: You can download the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition from the eShop, or buy a physical copy wherever you buy your games, or on {affiliate link} Amazon.

What will you do first with the new version??

The post Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition- What’s New? appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I never thought I’d be saying this again, but Animal Crossing: New Horizons {ACNH} just got an update!

Way back in late 2021, we got the 2.0 Update, which was touted as the last free major update for the game. And that was true- until we got an announcement in November 2025 that ACNH would be getting a 3.0 update, which just launched last week in January 2026!

With over four years of nothing much new to do in the game, this update has been a very nice treat for those of us who are still ACNH fans- and even for those who haven’t visited their island in months or even years. Having new objectives, new mechanics, and even new characters on the island has been a great reason to come back and has even reinvigorated the Animal Crossing community at large.

So what does the 3.0 Update have in store, and what should you know if you’re ready to dive in? Here are some of the most important things to know about the Animal Crossing 3.0 Update from January 2026!

New Objective: The Hotel

Kapp’n has been docked on our piers for years, waiting to be asked to take you to special treasure islands. But now, his family is joining him on the island and starting a business venture- a hotel!

When you play with the 3.0 update, you’ll find a hotel on your now-extended pier. Kapp’n is still there on his boat, and there’s a new chest out front- more on that later. But first, go ahead and head on in to the hotel.

There, you’ll find members of Kapp’n’s family- his wife, Leilani is behind the desk, his daughter Leila is hanging out in the lobby, and you’ll find Grams manning the shopping area. Leilani is the one you’ll want to speak to about getting the hotel up and running!

How to Get Visitors at Your Hotel

The hotel can hold 8 rooms- Leilani is still working on getting the hotel ready, so you’ll only be able to decorate two rooms per day. Once those rooms are decorated, they’re open for business- which means villagers who don’t live on your island can come visit! You may find them wandering around your town, and you can interact with them like you would your own villagers.

I won’t spoil anything, but if you want to unlock more content, you’re definitely going to want to decorate all 8 rooms!

How to Earn and Spend Hotel Tickets

Each time you decorate a room, you’ll be paid in the currency that is used only at the hotel. You can also earn tickets by crafting the requested items on the sign out front of the hotel and putting them in the box for Kapp’n to sell on other islands to entice others to visit. The list will change every Monday, and every time you submit an item another request will take its place.

These tickets are used to buy the goods on display in the lobby near Grams, or you can shop through the catalog for more options.

Bonus tip: Items on display each day are offered at a discount, so if you’re eyeing something, grab it then!

Tourist Outfits

In the lobby, you’ll also find mannequins. They come with two preset outfits, which you can borrow and wear yourself and wear around your island. But what’s even more fun is that you can change those outfits, and the tourists will borrow them! For example, I put a bath robe on one of my mannequins, and now I have four villagers wandering my island in bathrobes. It’s hilarious and it’s so easy to have fun with this one!

Decorating the Pier

Unlike Resident Services, you CAN decorate the area immediately in front of the hotel! Get as creative as you want with it, but if you intend on crafting a lot to earn tickets with Kapp’n, I’d really recommend making a crafting bench part of your design. Even better if you add a cooktop for recipes, and a storage shed to grab any already-crafted items you may have already ready to submit. {I personally just carry a storage shed around in my pocket at all times, but that’s personal preference.}

Quality of Life Improvements

In addition to the Hotel content, there have been other small tweaks added to the game as well that improve overall gameplay. There may be some that the community is still discovering, but here are the most important ones:

Crafting quantity: We’ve been asking since Day 1 and it’s finally here- you can increase your quantity when crafting so that you only have to do it once to make multiples of something! Whether you’re crafting two items to submit to Kapp’n or you’re binge-crafting fish bait, this is SUCH a big improvement.

Crafting from storage: Likewise, crafting using supplies that are still in your storage is a big improvement. You no longer have to check a recipe to see how many supplies you need, then remove those from storage, then craft them. Now as long as you have the items in your storage, you’re good to go! {Note: If you have the supplies in your bag inventory, it’ll pull from there first and then your storage.}

Storage Upgrades: Previously capped out at 5,000 items, your storage can now hold up to 9,000 items- once you pay for the upgrade, that is. Talk to Tom and pay for the upgrades {it’ll cost 1.5 million bells to reach 7,000 items and then 1.8 million bells for 9,000} and enjoy much more room to store your items.

Island Tunes: Not sure what you want your island tune to be? Now Isabelle can suggest one for you!

Side Stepping: Now when you press L or R, you side step- a much more precise way to get around that is great for harvesting, watering, and terraforming! Or, as many ACNH fans have noticed, dancing!

Megaphone: Exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.0 Edition, the megaphone can be used to locate your villagers! You can buy one from Nook’s Cranny, then hold it like any other tool. Press A & speak into your Switch 2’s microphone, calling the name of whichever villager you’d like to locate. If they’re outside, they’ll reply and you can go find them. If they are inside, it’ll let you know that no one replied. This also works on those special characters who visit islands, like Celeste!

Slumber Islands

Full disclosure- I’ve been so busy with my hotel that I haven’t had much time to personally explore slumber islands yet. But I’m still really excited about them, and if you have a Nintendo Switch Online account, you should be too!

Slumber Islands are three new islands that you can decorate and visit in your slumber. Not only can you go hang out there, but your friends can join you there as well! {If they have Nintendo Switch Online as well, that is.} You get to decide the size of your island and then decorate it as much as you want- terraforming works there too so you can really customize them. If you’ve wanted to create a new island but didn’t want to get rid of your home island, this is exactly what you need!

Final Thoughts

I’m sure there are even more updates that I’m not aware of yet- and possibly that the ACNH community at large doesn’t know about yet. This was an amazing, robust update that we weren’t expecting, which has already reinvigorated the fandom and brought a sense of community back to a game that’s now almost six years old.

It definitely doesn’t make us want a new Animal Crossing game any less, but it for sure extends the amount of time that we all have fun things to do on New Horizons. We’re back to sharing memes, tips and tricks online, visiting each other’s islands, meeting new villagers, and flexing our creative muscles. It feels a lot like the beginning in some ways, which I know a lot of us have missed.

Whether you stick to decorating your hotel, build entire new slumber islands or just enjoy doing your daily tasks a little easier with the help of the updates, there’s definitely something for you in the Animal Crossing 3.0 Update!

What are you most excited to do now in the game?

The post Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 Update: What You Need to Know appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own.

Some cookbooks are all about technique, and others are about telling a story. The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook falls squarely into the second category- it’s playful, nostalgic, and clearly made for people who love food and a good movie night!

If you know someone who will happily rewatch their favorite romantic comedies again and again, this is the kind of gift that feels thoughtful without being overly serious. It’s fun, it’s creative, and it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly, one movie {and recipe} at a time!

Why This Cookbook Makes a Great Gift

What makes this cookbook such a great gift is how personal it feels! Giving this gift to someone that you know loves some of these movies will absolutely make them feel seen. Each recipe is inspired by an iconic romantic comedy, and it’s not just about cooking- it’s about pairing food with moments from movies they already love.

What You’ll Find Inside

Inside the book, you’ll find over 60 hand-tested recipes inspired by classic romantic comedies and femme-focused films. The recipes are designed to be approachable, with options that work for everything from casual snacks to more involved dishes.

Some of the recipes are directly tied to memorable moments or themes from the films, which makes cooking from this book feel like part of the viewing experience. It’s fun to flip through even when you’re not actively cooking- especially if you’re someone who enjoys revisiting favorite movies!

Perfect for Movie Nights and Cozy Evenings In

This cookbook really shines when it comes to cozy nights at home. It’s ideal for movie nights, themed dinners, or weekends when you want something fun to cook without overthinking it.

Because the recipes are spread across so many different films, it’s easy to dip in and out throughout the year. You can make one recipe for a single movie night or slowly work your way through the book as you revisit your favorite romantic comedies! This could be so fun to do on a weekly basis- meaning it’s a gift that keeps on giving year-round!

Who This Gift Is Best For

This cookbook is a great fit for:

• Friends who love romantic comedies
• Movie-night enthusiasts
• Hosts who enjoy themed gatherings
• Anyone who likes playful, creative cookbooks
• Yourself- especially if you love the idea of cooking your way through your favorite films over time!

Where to Buy

The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook is available in paperback and makes a thoughtful, lighthearted gift for any rom-com lover! You can find it here on {affiliate link} Amazon.

The post Holiday Gift Guide: The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own. #FlatironPartner

There’s something about a cookbook that feels extra special as a gift- especially when it’s rooted in family traditions and food that’s meant to be shared! I’ve always loved cookbooks that feel real, the kind you can picture being passed around a kitchen or pulled out when you’re feeding a crowd. The Bradshaw Family Cookbook definitely fits that vibe!

This one comes from the Bradshaw family- yes, that Bradshaw-and it’s all about the recipes they actually make when they’re together. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a game day spread, or a casual family dinner, this cookbook leans into comforting, crowd-pleasing food that brings people to the table.

Why This Cookbook Makes a Great Gift

What makes this cookbook stand out as a gift is how approachable it feels. It’s great for a novice or a pro alike as the food is good but the recipes are simple. It’s not trying to be fancy or overly cheffy- it’s focused on real food for real gatherings- the kind of recipes you’d actually want to make when people are coming over!

It’s also one of those books that works for a wide range of people. You don’t need to be a hardcore football fan to enjoy it {trust me, I know nothing about football}, and you don’t need to cook elaborate meals every night to get value out of it. It’s a solid addition to any kitchen!

What You’ll Find Inside

The cookbook includes nearly 100 recipes, organized in a way that makes it easy to flip to exactly what you need. There are breakfast and brunch options, starters and snacks, grilling and smoking recipes, potluck-friendly mains, salads and sides, and a solid dessert section to finish things off.

The recipes draw inspiration from Southern cooking, Texas roots, and classic family favorites- think dishes that feel familiar, comforting, and meant to be shared. The combination of recipes works just as well for a laid-back weekend as it does for a full house!

Perfect for Family-Style Cooking and Hosting

If you love hosting- or you just love feeding people- this cookbook really shines. Many of the recipes are designed for gatherings, which makes it especially nice for holidays, casual get-togethers, or those weekends when everyone seems to end up at your house.

While football is definitely part of the Bradshaw family story, the food itself goes way beyond game day. That said, I do love a good football party when the food is the main event, and this book has plenty of ideas that would work perfectly for that kind of spread!

Who This Gift Is Best For

This cookbook is a great fit for:

• Anyone who loves cooking for family and friends
• Hosts who enjoy easy, crowd-friendly recipes
• Fans of comforting, classic American food
• Home cooks who appreciate recipes with a personal story behind them

Where to Buy It

The Bradshaw Family Cookbook: Our Favorite Recipes for Game Days, Weekdays, and Any Day is available in hardcover and makes a great addition to any home kitchen! You can find it here on {affiliate link} Amazon!

The post Holiday Gift Guide: The Bradshaw Family Cookbook appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received a copy of this game. All opinions are my own.

If you missed it, earlier this year Nintendo released Pokémon Legends: Z‑A, an open‑world action RPG on Nintendo Switch 2 where you build a team, battle in real‑time combat, explore a huge world, and take on a mystery involving legendary Pokémon. You can read our full review right here!

Now that the base game has been out for awhile, the Mega Dimension DLC {downloadable content} expands that world with a bunch of new content designed to keep players exploring long after the main story wraps up! It introduces additional story content that you can jump into once you’ve finished the base game, adding new quests and narrative moments that extend the experience you already know and love.

One of the biggest additions in this DLC is a brand‑new dimension to explore- a mysterious version of Lumiose City affected by spatial distortions and otherworldly phenomena. This new area opens up entirely new environments and challenges that weren’t available in the base game, giving players fresh terrain to navigate and new mysteries to uncover. It feels like stepping into another layer of the world you’ve already spent time in, but with its own distinct flavor!

The DLC also ramps up the Pokémon variety with additional returning Pokémon and new, exciting Mega Evolutions that weren’t in the launch game. Some fan‑favorite creatures get expanded roles here, and there are more opportunities to catch rare or powerful forms of Pokémon you may have already encountered. For players who love building out their roster or seeking out unique battle options, this is one of the most exciting parts of the new content- I know I’m personally very excited about this!

On top of expanding the world and the Pokémon lineup, the DLC adds extra side activities and missions that give you more goals. These include optional quests that reward rare items, encounters with trainers or characters you didn’t meet in the main story, and battles that test your team in new ways. Some of these activities also unlock special rewards you can use to customize your playthrough even further.

If you’re someone who enjoys the post‑game content- whether that’s Continued Battles in the Infinite Z‑A Royale, completing all the Pokédex objectives, or just chasing down hidden secrets- the DLC gives you more of what already made the base game engaging while layering in fresh twists and additions.

The Pokémon Legends: Z‑A DLC builds on the game that players already love, offering new areas to explore, more Pokémon to collect, extra missions to dive into, and expanded battle opportunities that make your time in Kalos feel bigger and more complete!

Buy It

You can find the Pokémon Legends: Z‑A DLC on {affiliate link} Amazon, your favorite brick & mortar store, or through the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch 2. {Keep in mind these are all going to be digital code purchases, so if you’re looking in-store you’ll want to look where the games that look like gift cards are!}

Important note: The DLC is not a standalone experience- you’ll need the full base game to play so be sure if you’re giving this as a gift they already have the main game! If they do, this DLC adds meaningful content that’s perfect, especially if they’ve wrapped up Z‑A’s main tale and want more!

The post Holiday Gift Guide: Pokemon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC! appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received a copy of this game. All opinions are my own.

After years of rumors, Metroid 4 is finally here for the Nintendo Switch 2, and it’s a huge deal for longtime fans of the series! Whether you’re already familiar with Samus Aran’s past adventures or you’re just now jumping into the franchise, this is one of the biggest releases on Nintendo Switch 2 so far- and one that’s been in the works for a very long time.

This game continues Samus’s story with a brand-new mission and a darker, more cinematic tone. While Nintendo has kept a lot of the deeper plot details quiet to avoid spoilers, you can expect the usual mix of exploration, action, and upgrades that unlock new parts of the map as you go. That’s always been one of Metroid’s biggest draws- the joy of finding a new ability and connecting the dots to realize it opens a door you passed hours ago.

This game isn’t a remake or a port- it’s a full new entry. It was built for Nintendo Switch 2, and the visuals definitely reflect that! The environments are moody and super detailed. Whether you’re navigating a crumbling facility or fighting your way through something more alien, the world design plays a big part in the experience.

Combat is of course a major part of the game, with plenty of options for how to approach each fight. Samus’s arsenal is upgradeable, and the game gives you lots of tools to deal with enemies, obstacles, and puzzle-like environments. Like most Metroid games, this one rewards exploration and backtracking- there’s always something you missed the first time through. {And, likely, the second time too.}

One of the biggest changes in this entry to the series is just how much more cinematic everything feels. There are more cutscenes, voice lines, and bigger set pieces than you might expect if you’re coming from the older games in the series, but at its core, it still looks like classic Metroid. It’s just stepped up a notch!

For anyone new to the series, this could be a great place to start- it’s designed for modern players and doesn’t require a deep knowledge of past games to understand what’s going on. But for longtime fans, Metroid 4 is packed with details and callbacks that make it feel like a true continuation of the legacy.

Buy It

You can find Metroid 4 on {affiliate link} Amazon, your favorite brick & mortar store, or through the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch 2.

The post Holiday Gift Guide- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received a copy of this game to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

If you’re someone who’s already driven hundreds of laps in Mario Kart World but you’re ready to branch out, Kirby Air Riders is one of the most exciting new releases of the year! This fun, fast-paced game brings Kirby into a completely new kind of adventure- part racer, part battle arena- with beautiful graphics, tons of cuteness, and a playful spirit that feels unmistakably Kirby!

What is Kirby Air Riders?

Not to be confused with the GameCube classic Kirby Air Ride, this is a brand-new title created from the ground up specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2! It builds on some of the original’s most beloved ideas but expands on them with modern graphics and much more variety in how you play. It’s a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, which means it was made to take advantage of the system’s performance improvements and visual upgrades.

Visually, the game is a perfect match for the Nintendo Switch 2. Everything looks crisp, colorful, and smooth- whether you’re playing handheld or docked. The environments are full of details, the animations are fluid, and the music matches the upbeat, energetic vibe of the game perfectly!

Racing in Kirby Air Riders

The main content of the game centers around high-speed races across colorful, chaotic maps. {Think Mario Kart World, but even cuter!} Players can choose from a wide selection of Air Ride machines, each with their own handling and stats, and compete in fast-paced races that also include combat and power-up elements.

Other Ways to Play Kirby Air Riders

In addition to traditional racing, Kirby Air Riders includes battle arenas and challenge modes. These are fun as it is, but become even more fun when you play in multiplayer! You can play locally or online, making it easy to jump into a quick race or set up a full match with friends.

Who Should Play Kirby Air Riders

Whether you’re a longtime Kirby fan or just love games that mix racing with fun, chaotic action, Kirby Air Riders brings something unique to the table. It’s definitely playable for younger kids but offers enough challenge and replayability for teens and adults, too. With unlockable vehicles, varied gameplay modes, and online multiplayer, there are so many things to do with this game!

Buy It

You can find Kirby Air Riders for Nintendo Switch 2 on {affiliate link} Amazon, your favorite brick & mortar store, or through the Nintendo eShop.

The post Holiday Gift Guide: Kirby Air Riders for Nintendo Switch 2 appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

I received this game to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly gift this holiday season, Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are back- this time on the Nintendo Switch! These fan-favorite 3D Mario adventures are bundled together in one digital package, making it easy to revisit the classic gameplay {or try it for the first time} and they look better than ever before.

Both games are included in one purchase, but one thing I really appreciated is that they install as separate titles on your Switch home screen. It wouldn’t have been a big deal if they were bundled, but I really like not having extra menus or steps when you’re ready to play- you can jump straight into either Galaxy or Galaxy 2 without navigating through a launcher.

These remastered versions take full advantage of today’s better tech. The graphics look so crisp- these games are almost 20 years old at this point so I was blown away by how clean they looked. They had sharper visuals, brighter colors, and smoother performance across the board. Whether you’re leaping from planet to planet or taking in the starry backdrops, it’s literally worth playing the game JUST for the visuals {although of course the gameplay is great too!}. If you’re playing on a Nintendo Switch 2 like I am, you can play in up to 4K when possible, but even on a regular Nintendo Switch the games look fantastic.

As for the gameplay, nothing major has changed from the original releases- which is exactly what fans were hoping for! These are the same galaxy-hopping, gravity-defying platformers that everyone fell in love with years ago, and they hold up really well. Both games offer clever puzzles and of course, that signature Mario charm. I was wondering if it would feel off using Joy-cons instead of the Wii remotes but it was reworked seamlessly to use Joy-cons and felt like it was native to Switch.

This bundle is a great gift idea for longtime fans who want to relive their favorite Mario moments with updated visuals- OR for newer players discovering these games for the first time! It’s a great game for kids but still engaging for adults- making it a great fit for just about anyone on your list!

Buy It

You can find Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 on {affiliate link} Amazon, your favorite brick & mortar store, or through the Nintendo Store.

The post Holiday Gift Idea: Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 on Nintendo Switch! appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.

If you’re looking for a holiday cookie that feels a little special without being fussy, these Nutella Linzer Cookies are such a fun one to add to your baking list!

They start with a lightly spiced almond dough that bakes up buttery and tender, and the little cut-out center gives them that charming, festive look without any complicated decorating. A swirl of creamy Nutella in the middle brings it all together, making these the kind of cookies that look bakery-worthy but come together with everyday ingredients and a bit of chill time.

They’re perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or just treating yourself during the holiday season!

What are Linzer cookies?
Linzer cookies are delicate sandwich cookies traditionally made with ground nuts and filled with jam or chocolate. They’re inspired by the Austrian Linzer torte but in cookie form- with thin, buttery rounds with one side cut out so the filling shows through.

Can I make Nutella Linzer Cookies dairy-free?
Yes! To make these cookies dairy-free, replace the butter with a plant-based butter designed for baking. Most versions of Nutella contain dairy, but you can easily use a dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread instead. Nocciolata makes a dairy-free version or if you’re up for it, you could make a homemade version.

Why do I need to chill the dough twice?
Chilling the dough after mixing allows the butter to firm up and helps prevent spreading during baking. The second chill- after cutting out the cookies- makes sure that the delicate shapes hold their form in the oven, giving you clean edges and perfect layering!

Can I use different fillings besides Nutella?
Definitely! While Nutella gives these cookies a rich, chocolatey flavor, you can substitute raspberry jam, Biscoff spread, or even caramel for a fun variation. Each filling gives the cookies a new personality, so they’re great for making a variety platter.

What’s the best way to cut out Linzer cookies?
Use a 2- to 3-inch round cutter for the base, then cut a smaller center from half of them using a mini cookie cutter or the wide end of a piping tip. If the dough starts to get too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing to cut.

How should I store Linzer cookies?
These cookies keep beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them {unfilled} for up to a month- just thaw, fill, and dust with powdered sugar before serving!

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup fine almond flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup butter [softened]
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup Nutella
• Powdered sugar [for decorating]

What You’ll Need:

{These links are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission on your purchase at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!}

• Mixing bowls {medium and large}
• Electric mixer
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Round cookie cutter and small cutter for centers
• Parchment-lined baking sheet
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Wire cooling rack

Instructions

Whisk together flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Set aside.

In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.

Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and well combined.

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Divide dough in half, form each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Remove one dough disk from the fridge and let rest at room temperature for 5 minutes.

Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick.

Use a round cookie cutter to cut out cookies and transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cut out the center from half the cookies using a smaller cutter or piping tip.

Chill the cut-out cookies for another 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.

Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Dust the top cookies [those with the cut-outs] lightly with powdered sugar.

Flip the bottom cookies over and spread a thin layer of Nutella on each one.

Gently press the powdered sugar tops onto the Nutella-covered bottoms to sandwich them together.

These Nutella Linzer Cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious- a buttery, nutty base paired with creamy chocolate-hazelnut filling makes every bite feel special! They’re perfect for gifting, sharing at holiday parties, or adding to your Christmas cookie lineup. Once you’ve made them, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe year after year!

More Recipes to Try

Looking for more delicious holiday cookie recipe ideas? Try these next!

Grinch Hot Cocoa Bombs
Cake Mix Christmas Cookies
No Bake Gingerbread Truffles
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies
Cranberry Pistachio Cookies
Gingerbread Man Cookies
Blue Crinkle Cookies
Coffee Crinkle Cookies
Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Nutella Linzer Cookies

Yield: 24

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Additional Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Buttery almond cookies with warm spices and a smooth Nutella filling make these Nutella Linzer Cookies a beautiful and delicious holiday favorite. Perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or adding something special to your seasonal baking!

Print

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup fine almond flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup Nutella
• Powdered sugar for decorating

Instructions

Whisk together the flour, almond flour, cinnamon and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until creamy.

Add the egg and vanilla and beat until smooth and well combined.

Mix in the dry ingredients and beat until a soft dough forms.

Divide the dough in half and form each half into a flat disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour.

When the cookie dough has chilled, remove one dough disk from the refrigerator. Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for five minutes.

Remove the dough from the plastic wrap and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough until it’s around 1/8
inch thick.

Use a round cookie cutter to cut out each cookie, transferring the cut-out dough to a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Keep half the cut-out cookies a full circle, then use a smaller cookie cutter or the wide end of a piping tip to cut out a hole in the center of the other half of the cookies.

Transfer the cookie sheets to the refrigerator to chill for another 30 minutes.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the chilled cookies in the oven to bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.

Allow the cookies to cool for 5 to 10 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

When the cookies are cool, spoon a small amount of powdered sugar into a fine-mesh strainer. Lightly shake the powdered sugar over the top of the cookies with the cut-out center.

Flip the other cookies over so the bottom is facing up, then spread a thin layer of Nutella over each cookie. Place the powdered sugar cookies on top of the Nutella and lightly press to secure it in place.

The post Nutella Linzer Cookies Recipe appeared first on {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker.