Category: Recipe

  • Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    There’s something about a pan of fresh, homemade chewy chocolate brownies that makes any day better.

    This is one of those easy dessert recipes that doesn’t take much effort but gives you big results—rich, fudgy flavor with just the right amount of chew.

    Whether you’re baking for your family, a church gathering, or just wanting something sweet after supper, these brownies are the kind you’ll want to make again and again.

    You may also like:

    Who Will Love These Brownies

    This recipe is perfect for busy parents, chocolate lovers, and anyone who wants a simple homemade dessert without a long list of ingredients.

    If you’re new to baking, this is a beginner-friendly recipe that doesn’t require fancy tools or skills.

    For those who usually grab a boxed mix, this is a great way to take that next step toward making brownies from scratch—you’ll taste the difference.

    When to Make Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    These brownies work for just about any occasion. Bake them on a quiet weeknight when you want a quick sweet treat.

    Whip up a batch for potlucks, holidays, or birthday parties when you need a crowd-pleasing dessert.

    They’re also a good choice for school lunches or after-school snacks since they cut easily into squares and pack well.

    Why This Brownie Recipe Works

    Unlike store-bought mixes, this recipe uses real butter, cocoa powder, and simple pantry staples.

    That’s what gives them their rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture.

    They’re not too cakey, not too fudgy—just the kind of brownies people search for when they want something that tastes homemade.

    And because the ingredients are common, you can usually pull this recipe together without an extra trip to the store.

    How to Serve Homemade Brownies

    Sure, you can enjoy them straight from the pan, but there are plenty of ways to dress them up.

    Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy brownie sundae.

    Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce and a few chopped nuts for extra flavor.

    For holidays or gatherings, cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter for an easy finger-food dessert.

    You can even crumble brownies over yogurt or mix them into milkshakes for a fun twist.

    Where to Enjoy These Brownies

    These brownies fit just as well on a Sunday dinner table as they do at a neighborhood cookout.

    They travel easily, so they’re perfect for bake sales, church events, or picnics.

    If you want to send a little homemade love to a friend or neighbor, a plate of brownies wrapped in parchment and tied with string makes a thoughtful gift.

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Ingredients:

    • 8 tbsp. butter
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1/3 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
    • 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
    • 2 large eggs
    • ½ cup all-purpose flour
    • ¼ tsp. baking powder

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Directions:

    Preheat the oven to 350°F.

    In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies


    Turn off the heat and add the cocoa powder. Stir until combined.

    Pour butter/cocoa mixture into the sugar.

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies


    Add eggs and vanilla.

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies


    Mix well.

    Add baking powder to the flour and slowly add it to the wet mixture. Stir until combined.

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies
    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies


    Pour the batter into the 8X8 non stick pan.

    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies


    Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.

    Allow brownies to be fully cooled before cutting into squares. Use a wire rack if desired.

    homemade chewy chocolate brownies
    Homemade Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I make brownies chewy instead of cakey?
    Using the right balance of butter, sugar, and cocoa helps create that chewy texture. Avoid overbaking—pull them out when a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

    Can I double this brownie recipe?
    Yes, just double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time, but keep checking with a toothpick.

    What’s the best way to cut brownies cleanly?
    Let them cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it off between slices for neat squares.

    Can I freeze homemade brownies?
    Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

    How do I make brownies more chocolatey?
    If you want a richer chocolate flavor, add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

    Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Chewy Chocolate Brownies

    Ingredients

    • 8 tablespoons butter
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1/3 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 2 large eggs
    • ½ cup all-purpose flour
    • ¼ teaspoon baking powder

    Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
    2. In a pan, melt the butter over low heat.
    3. Turn off the heat and add the cocoa powder. Stir until combined.
    4. Pour butter/cocoa mixture into the sugar.
    5. Add eggs and vanilla.
    6. Mix well.
    7. Add baking powder to the flour and slowly add it to the wet mixture. Stir until combined.
    8. Pour the batter into the silicone or non-stick pan.
    9. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
    10. Let fully cooled before cutting into squares.

  • Rosemary Olive Oil Bread with Herb Butter

    Rosemary Olive Oil Bread with Herb Butter

    Try this Rosemary Olive Oil Bread with herb butter and pair a slice of this tasty bread with your favorite meal this week!

    Do you love trying new bread recipes? If so, this recipe is for you!

    This rosemary olive oil bread is filled with flavor. It requires a few basic ingredients!

    Yes, you can bake with olive oil just like you bake with other oils! This bread recipe does use olive oil. The olive oil in this quick bread recipe gives this loaf of bread it’s nice texture.

    Your house will smell amazing with a fresh batch of this baking in the oven. Enjoy!

    Tips for Cooking with Olive Oil

    Rosemary Olive Oil Bread

    Ingredients:                                                                      

    • 2 ¼ cups flour                                                                      
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder                                            
    • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped                         
    • 1 tablespoon sugar                                                           
    • 1 ½ teaspoons salt 
    • 1 cup milk 
    • 2 eggs 
    • ¼ cup olive oil 
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced 
    • Sea salt

    Herb Butter:

    Rosemary Olive Oil Bread with Herb Butter

    Directions:

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare loaf pan with nonstick spray

    In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder, rosemary, sugar, and salt. 

    In a separate bowl whisk together eggs, milk, olive oil, garlic.

    Add to flour mixture, combine well. 

    Transfer to loaf pan.

    Press rosemary sprig on top and sprinkle with sea salt. 

    Bake 40-45 minutes. 

    Cool 10 minutes in pan then transfer to wire rack to cool completely. 

    Slice and serve! 

    Herb Butter:

    Whisk or beat together butter, herbs, and seasonings until well combined 

    Spread on warm bread and enjoy! 

    You can use this recipe with a ton of variations, just change up the herb and seasoning combinations to fit your menu and preference!

    Anniversary Gifts Personalized Cutting Boards Anniversary
    BUY NOW: Personalized Cutting Boards


    Rosemary Olive Oil Bread
  • Vegetable Pasta Salad

    Vegetable Pasta Salad

    Easy Vegetable Pasta Salad for Potlucks, Picnics, and Busy Weeknights

    If you’re looking for a quick and crowd-pleasing side dish, this easy vegetable pasta salad recipe is worth keeping on standby.

    It’s cold, crisp, and full of simple ingredients that come together fast—and it’s the kind of dish you can count on when you need to feed a group or prep ahead for the week.

    Whether you’re hosting a family cookout or need a lunchbox option that holds up well, this tri-color pasta salad gets the job done without a lot of fuss.

    You may also like:

    Who Loves This Vegetable Pasta Salad?

    This cold pasta salad is a go-to favorite for busy families, folks bringing a dish to a potluck, or anyone needing something fresh and filling that doesn’t require turning on the oven.

    It’s popular with kids thanks to the bite-sized chunks of cheddar cheese and pasta, and adults appreciate how versatile and make-ahead friendly it is.

    It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants a no-mayo pasta salad recipe that holds up well at room temperature or straight from the fridge.

    What Makes This the Best Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings?

    When folks search for easy summer pasta salad with vegetables or cold pasta salad for cookouts, they’re usually after something that’s not overly complicated but still packs a punch in flavor.

    This recipe checks all the boxes.

    The combo of rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and black olives is simple, but it works.

    Add in the bold Italian dressing and dried seasoning, and you’ve got a dish that’s both tangy and satisfying.

    When to Serve Cold Pasta Salad with Veggies

    This recipe shines during warm weather, but don’t box it into summer only. It’s great year-round—from Memorial Day through tailgate season to quick lunch preps in the fall.

    Serve it as a side at your next barbecue, alongside burgers or grilled chicken. Pack it in containers for a work lunch or bring it to a church potluck.

    It travels well and tastes even better after sitting in the fridge a bit.

    Where to Use This Tri-Color Rotini Pasta Salad

    This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, but it also fits right in on the dinner table during a busy week.

    It’s a simple side to pair with baked chicken, sandwiches, or even a bowl of soup.

    It can even work as a light vegetarian main dish—just double the portion and maybe toss in a few extra veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers to bulk it up.

    Why This Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Works

    Searches like Italian dressing pasta salad recipe or vegetable pasta salad for meal prep bring up tons of options, but this one keeps it classic and easy.

    You’re not dealing with hard-to-find ingredients or tricky steps.

    Everything is easy to find at any grocery store, and it comes together in under 30 minutes, not counting chill time.

    It also keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.

    How to Use Leftovers or Make It Your Own

    One of the best parts of this recipe is how flexible it is. If you’ve got leftovers, they’ll hold up for 3–4 days in the fridge.

    You can easily switch out ingredients to match what you have on hand—swap the cheddar for mozzarella cubes, add some chopped cucumbers or red onion, or toss in pepperoni to turn it into a heartier dish.

    Want it dairy-free? Just skip the cheese altogether.

    This recipe’s simplicity makes it easy to stretch or customize—great for those easy weeknight pasta salad recipes or last-minute picnic side dish ideas people are often searching for.

    Whether you’re making this pasta salad for a backyard BBQ, school function, or meal prepping lunches for the week, it’s a recipe that just works.

    No extras needed—just a few familiar ingredients, one big bowl, and some time in the fridge to let those flavors come together.

    Vegetable Pasta Salad

    Ingredients:

    • 16 oz Garden Rotini or Tri Color Rotini Pasta
    • 8 oz block cheddar cheese
    • 6 oz can black olives, drained
    • 10 oz cherub or cherry tomatoes, rinsed

    For dressing:

    • 8 oz Italian dressing and marinade
    • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

    Directions:

    Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.

    Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

    Drain water from pasta and rinse pasta under cold water.

    Add pasta to a large bowl. Add dressing and seasoning. Stir well.

    Cut the cheese into ¼ inch chunks.

    Add cheese, olives, and tomatoes to the bowl of pasta. Toss.

    Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

    Frequently Asked Questions for Vegetable Pasta Salad

    What vegetables go best in a cold vegetable pasta salad?
    Popular choices include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and black olives. You can stick with the basics or add other crisp, colorful vegetables that hold up well when chilled.

    Can I make this tri-color rotini pasta salad the night before?
    Yes, this tri-color pasta salad with Italian dressing actually tastes better when made ahead of time. Letting it chill overnight helps the flavors soak into the pasta for a more seasoned, refreshing bite.

    What kind of dressing works best for cold pasta salad with vegetables?
    Zesty Italian dressing is one of the most searched-for dressings for vegetable pasta salad. It’s tangy, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of vegetables and cheeses without being too heavy.

    How long does vegetable pasta salad last in the fridge?
    This cold pasta salad with Italian dressing will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s a great make-ahead side dish for meal prepping or potlucks.

    Can I use a different type of pasta in this cold pasta salad recipe?
    Yes, while rotini is great for holding onto the dressing and ingredients, you can also use penne, bowtie, or even macaroni in your easy vegetable pasta salad.

    Is this vegetable pasta salad recipe vegetarian?
    Yes, this is a vegetarian pasta salad recipe as written. It contains no meat, making it a solid option for vegetarian diets and Meatless Monday meals.

    Can I add protein to this Italian pasta salad with vegetables?
    Absolutely. Add grilled chicken, pepperoni slices, chickpeas, or diced salami for a more filling version of this cold pasta salad with veggies.

    What’s the best way to serve pasta salad at a cookout or picnic?
    Keep this easy pasta salad for BBQs chilled in a cooler or over ice if serving outdoors. It’s best served cold and can sit out for about an hour before needing to be refrigerated again.

    Can I freeze leftover vegetable pasta salad?
    It’s not recommended to freeze pasta salad with Italian dressing. The texture of the pasta and vegetables can become mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge within a few days.

    What cheese is best for a pasta salad with vegetables?
    Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic option that holds its shape and adds a bold flavor. For variety, try mozzarella cubes or feta for a tangy twist.

    Vegetable Pasta Salad

    Vegetable Pasta Salad

    Ingredients

    • 16 oz Garden Rotini or Tri Color Rotini Pasta
    • 8 oz block cheddar cheese
    • 6 oz can black olives, drained
    • 10 oz cherub or cherry tomatoes, rinsed
    • For dressing:
    • 8 oz Italian dressing and marinade
    • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

    Instructions

    Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
    Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
    Drain water from pasta, and rinse pasta under cold water.
    Add pasta to a large bowl, and add dressing and seasoning. Stir well.
    Cut the cheese into ¼ inch chunks
    Add cheese, olives, and tomatoes to the bowl of pasta. Toss.
    Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

  • Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Tater Tots

    Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Tater Tots

    Try these tasty Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Tater Tots! Cheese, bacon, and tots are a delicious combination you should try.

    If you are a fan of tater tots, cheese, and bacon, I highly recommend this recipe! Instead of having regular traditional tater tots, dress them up with all of these delicious ingredients below!

    Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

    These tots can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish with your favorite meal.

    Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Tater Tots

    Ingredients:

    • 32oz pkg. tater tots
    • 1oz pkg. dry ranch mix
    • 8oz shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1lb. bacon, chopped and cooked

    Directions:

    Chop bacon into 1 inch chunks and cook in a skillet over medium heat until done, stirring often.

    Line a plate with paper towels, and put cooked bacon on, then pat to help drain grease.

    In the slow cooker, layer half of each in this order: tater tots, ranch mix, cheddar cheese, cooked bacon pieces. Repeat the layer once more.

    Cook on low for 2 hours or high for 4 hours. 

    Serve hot.

    Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Tater Tots

    Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Tater Tots

    Ingredients

    • 32oz pkg tater tots
    • 1oz pkg dry ranch mix
    • 8oz shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1lb bacon, chopped and cooked

    Instructions

    Chop bacon into 1 inch chunks and cook in a skillet over medium heat until done, stirring often.

    Line a plate with paper towels, and put cooked bacon on, then pat to help drain grease.

    In the slow cooker, layer half of each in this order: tater tots, ranch mix, cheddar cheese, cooked bacon pieces. Repeat the layer once more.

    Cook on low for 2 hours or high for 4 hours.

    Serve hot.




  • Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

    Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

    This delicious and easy to make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake only requires four simple ingredients!

    If you are looking to create a simple and quick dessert that’s also tasty, try making a dump cake! Dump cakes are a favorite dessert of mine.

    Using only 4-ingredients, this dump cake is a great option if you want a cake or cobbler type of dessert to serve your guests.

    Dump cake is a type of dessert made by dumping fruit and cake mix into a pan and bake.

    The results are a moist and fruity cake that is easy to make and can be served with ice cream or whipped cream.

    Dump cakes are usually made with cherry, blueberry, or pineapple filling, but any type of fruit can be used.

    The taste of dump cake will depend on the type of fruit used in the recipe. If you use cherries, the dump cake will have a tart and slightly sweet taste.

    If you use blueberries, the dump cake will have a sweeter taste. And if you use pineapple, the dump cake will have a tropical flavor.

    Regardless of the type of fruit you use, dump cakes are always moist and delicious.

    Why is it called a dump cake?

    A dump cake is a cross between a cake and a cobbler. Dry cake mix (usually yellow mix) is sprinkled over the fruit layer, and melted butter is on top.

    You ‘dump’ all of the ingredients into a baking pan and bake! A dump cake is a delicious baked dessert.

    You can add a variety of canned fruit, fresh fruit, or fruit combinations to a dump cake! For this recipe, we just use cherry and crushed pineapple from a can.

    What’s the difference between cobbler and dump cake?

    There are a few key difference between cobbler and dump cake.

    For starters, cobbler is typically made with fresh fruit, while dump cake is made with canned fruit.

    Cobbler also has a biscuit-like topping, while dump cake has a more cake-like topping.

    Finally, cobbler is typically baked in an oven, while dump cake is made on the stovetop.

    Do you stir a dump cake?

    Most recipes insist that you don’t stir the ingredients. The only thing I stir for this recipe is the cherry and pineapple filling.

    I stir the filling together and spread out into a thin layer.

    Peach Cobbler Dump Cake

    Slow Cooker Blueberry Lemon Dump Cake

    Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

    Ingredients:

    • 20 oz can crushed pineapple
    • 21 oz can cherry pie filling
    • Box of yellow cake mix
    • 1 stick butter, cold

    Directions:

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

    Open the cans of crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling.

    Drain the juice out of the can of crushed pineapple. *There will still be some left at the bottom of the can, but that is alright.

    Pour the crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling into a 9” x 13” pan, and give a quick stir to mix it all together.

    Spread the mixture into an even layer.

    Pour the dry boxed cake mix evenly over the pineapple and cherry mixture.

    Cut the butter into 10-12 slices and set a few inches apart on the top of the cake.

    Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are golden and cake appears to be done.

    Remove cake from the oven and set on a cooling rack.

    Serve warm, or allow to cool completely before serving – up to you!

    How do you know when dump cake is done?

    The dump cake is done when the top is golden brown! You may even see some of the filling bubbling through the top layer.

    Do you have to refrigerate a dump cake?

    Store the dump cake in the fridge covered with plastic wrap for up to 5 days.

    How do you store leftover dump cake?

    Assuming you have some dump cake left over and don’t want it to go to waste, there are a few different ways you can store it.

    One option is to put it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. This will help keep the cake fresh and moist.

    Another option is to freeze the cake. This will ensure that it lasts longer and stays fresher.

    Whichever storage method you choose, be sure to label the dump cake so you know when it was made.

    Can you freeze dump cake?

    Yes, dump cakes can be frozen. This is a great way to extend their shelf life and enjoy them at a later date.

    To freeze a dump cake, simply wrap it tightly in cling film or aluminium foil and place it in the freezer.

    When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the cake at room temperature or in the microwave.

    What can you pair with dump cake?

    You can serve dump cake with ice cream, whipped cream, or fruit. It’s a delicious and easy dessert that everyone will love.

    Frequently Asked Questions:

    What is a dump cake?

    A dump cake is a type of easy dessert where ingredients are “dumped” into a baking dish and layered, often without any mixing required. In this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake recipe, the crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling create a fruity base, followed by a layer of yellow cake mix and cold butter on top.

    Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

    While canned crushed pineapple is recommended for this recipe for its consistency and moisture content, you can try using fresh pineapple. However, the result may be slightly different as fresh pineapple tends to release more liquid during baking. If you use fresh pineapple, consider draining any excess liquid and adjusting the sweetness to your liking.

    What size baking dish should I use for this recipe?

    For this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, you’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish. This size ensures that the layers are evenly spread, and the cake bakes thoroughly.

    Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

    Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a yellow cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like white, vanilla, or even lemon. Each variation will give the cake a unique taste, so feel free to get creative with your choices.

    Is it necessary to use cold butter?

    Yes, using cold butter is essential for achieving the right texture in the cake. When the cold butter is thinly sliced and placed on top of the cake mix layer, it creates a crumbly and buttery topping during baking, adding a delicious finish to the dessert.

    Can I add nuts or other toppings to the cake?

    Absolutely! If you’re a fan of nuts, you can sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds on top of the cake before baking. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor by adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.

    How should I serve Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake?

    This dessert is incredibly versatile. You can serve it warm as is, drizzle it with caramel or chocolate sauce, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of hot and cold.

    Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire cake in the oven at a low temperature.

    How should I store any leftovers?

    If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

    Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

    Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

    Ingredients

    • 20 oz can crushed pineapple
    • 21 oz can cherry pie filling
    • Box of yellow cake mix
    • 1 stick butter, cold

    Instructions

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

    Open the cans of crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling.

    Drain the juice out of the can of crushed pineapple. *There will still be some left at the bottom of the can, but that is alright.

    Pour the crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling into a 9” x 13” pan, and give a quick stir to mix it all together.

    Pour the dry boxed cake mix evenly over the pineapple and cherry mixture.

    Cut the butter into 10-12 slices and set a few inches apart on the top of the cake.

    Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are golden and cake appears to be done.

    Remove cake from the oven and set on a cooling rack.

    Serve warm, or allow to cool completely before serving – up to you!