I have a serious question. Did you grow up on Pop-Tarts and toaster strudels — the world of frosting, sprinkles and icing in foil packages? Thank you, 90s. I did, though I enjoyed them more as a snack than as breakfast. For before-school mornings, I preferred an English muffin smeared with peanut butter and honey. … Read more

Or in other words, I-don’t-know-what-to-call-these bars. After four days of pondering, I still couldn’t settle on a name. Honestly, I’m a little obsessed with them. Completely smitten, if you will. How can I think straight with my mouth full of… cookie? Brownie? Blondie? Brookie? It’s confusing, I know. Picture a chocolate chip cookie base blended … Read more

I’m here to tell you: this salad tastes like dessert. Sure, it can be dinner — but look at the name. KILLER. Not just because it’s insanely good, but because it’s loaded with rich, indulgent ingredients your heart might grumble about. Sit back while I serve you a generous plate of cholesterol. Totally worth it. … Read more

Spring will be even brighter with this everything smoked salmon tart. This has quickly become a favorite brunch idea: crisp puff pastry, an everything-seasoned border, whipped cream cheese and silky smoked salmon on top. A while back my mom asked for menu suggestions for a small lunch. A puff pastry tart was the obvious winner … Read more

French onion stuffed shells are the star of today’s dinner — comforting, savory, slightly sweet, and totally cozy. Cold weather and snow make me crave warm, comforting meals, and this recipe delivers. It grew from my love of French onion flavors and comfort-food meals: slow-caramelized onions, nutty gruyère, creamy ricotta, and soft jumbo pasta shells … Read more

[Guys! Don’t forget! Tomorrow, April 22, is the NYC meetup at MacKenzie-Childs!] Today I made the happiest little turnovers: mini strawberry pistachio turnovers. My puff pastry obsession continues, and these tiny turnovers are ridiculously easy. Fresh strawberries are chopped, tossed with a bit of sugar and cornstarch, then spooned into buttery, flaky puff pastry squares. … Read more

Here’s a fresh take on the classic taco dip. I cook smoky chipotle-seasoned beef, layer it over creamy refried beans with a sour cream and salsa verde mix, then pile on cheese, fresh veg and pickled onions for a show-stopping layered taco dip. Wouldn’t you happily eat this layered taco dip for dinner? Or any … Read more

File this under my current obsessions. Perfect single-serving margaritas with plenty of salt. Creating an extra-smoky aqua eye with a splurge brush and MAC’s Talent Pool. Surviving for a week on toast, cheese, chocolate, avocado and butter-sauteed mushrooms while embracing single life. Reality TV gossip: Real World — what a trainwreck. I don’t watch it, … Read more

I still can’t believe this came out of my kitchen. I think I might be turning into a pie person. That feels monumental. Technically this is a galette, not a traditional pie. But it uses a real pie-style crust — and honestly that’s the part I both love and fear most about pies. Sometimes the … Read more

Happy 4th of July! Wishing you a wonderful holiday filled with friends, family, and plenty of red, white, and blue treats. Whether you’re grilling, picnicking, or relaxing at home, take time to celebrate safely and enjoy the festive flavors of the season. From classic barbecue favorites to simple patriotic desserts, there are plenty of easy … Read more