Correctly measuring flour is essential for baking success. Too much flour can leave baked goods dry and crumbly. If a recipe tells you to “measure the flour correctly,” here is a straightforward guide to do just that. Have you ever baked cookies that turned out too dry, too firm, or never spread as expected? Or … Read more

Learn how to make buttermilk for pancakes, cakes, and more. This simple substitution saves a grocery trip and helps you achieve tender, moist baked goods. If you want light, fluffy pancakes, a moist red velvet cake, or tender muffins, buttermilk often appears on the ingredient list. Its subtle tang and acidity help create a soft … Read more

Oreo-stuffed red velvet brownies—what more could you want in a dessert? These thick, fudgy brownies deliver classic red velvet flavor with a near-gooey brownie texture. Each bar is filled with Oreo cookies and finished with crushed Oreos on top. There’s something irresistible about a dense, fudgy brownie. If you enjoy gooey brownies and red velvet … Read more

Creamy, decadent peanut butter cheesecake dip is perfect for parties, potlucks, or movie nights. All the flavor of your favorite peanut butter cheesecake with much less effort. This peanut butter cheesecake dip is a quick, indulgent treat that comes together in about five minutes. It delivers the rich, creamy flavor of classic peanut butter cheesecake … Read more

Creamy raspberry frosting sandwiched between two soft, fudgy chocolate cookies — these chocolate raspberry sandwich cookies are a homemade take on an Oreo, perfect for Valentine’s Day! This post was originally published February 2016 and updated January 2021 with new photos, a slightly updated recipe, and fresh tips. Chocolate and raspberries are a classic pairing … Read more

Everyone brightens up when I bring these fresh strawberry cheesecake bars. A crunchy graham cracker crust supports a silky vanilla cheesecake layer, finished with fresh sugared strawberries on top. This is a classic cheesecake made in a 9×13-inch pan—perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. People often act surprised when someone brings homemade cheesecake, and … Read more

Skip the usual banana bread and try this banana coffee cake: a moist, tender banana cake spiced with cinnamon, brown sugar and vanilla, topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel and an optional vanilla glaze. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea or any time you want a not-too-sweet banana treat. This banana coffee cake post … Read more

Light, fluffy chocolate cupcakes topped with creamy cream cheese buttercream. These cupcakes have rich chocolate flavor balanced by a silky-tasting frosting — pure cupcake bliss. These are hands-down some of the best chocolate cupcakes I’ve made — and likely some of the best I’ve eaten. They’re intensely chocolatey but never bitter, and the cream cheese … Read more

These banana chocolate chip muffins are moist, fluffy, buttery and filled with chocolate chips. They taste like a warm slice of banana bread; have perfectly domed, golden muffin tops; and have just the right amount of chocolate chips. This recipe was originally posted June 22, 2018 and republished December 1, 2019 with more recipe tips … Read more

This mini chocolate cake is moist and fudgy with a rich chocolate flavor. It’s a single-layer 6-inch round cake that serves about 4 people (or 2 with leftovers). Top it with creamy chocolate frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The recipe is quick, simple and ideal for date night or any time you … Read more