Breakfast - Southern Cravings

Air Fryer Poached Eggs

Anna Kate — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 20:00:26 +0000

Air fryer poached eggs are a quick, easy, and convenient breakfast option ready in less than 10 minutes! Gone are the days of traditional water poaching methods and the messy aftermath. With this technique, you can achieve perfectly poached eggs in a hassle-free way!

Recently, I have been making all my favorite recipes in the air fryer because of how convenient and efficient this kitchen appliance is! This poached egg recipe has seriously revolutionized my morning routine, saving me so much wasted time. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Time efficient: There’s no need to watch and wait for your water to boil. Just add eggs to ramekins and pop them in the air fryer!
Consistent results: With an air fryer, you don’t need to be a kitchen pro to achieve the same perfect doneness every time.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the cooking time to make your air fryer poached eggs with soft or hard yolks.

What Are Air Fryer Poached Eggs?

Air fryer poached eggs are a modern twist on a classic breakfast item, taking advantage of the efficient and even cooking power of the air fryer. Using this new-and-improved method, you can now make a traditionally challenging and delicate recipe with ease!

The eggs come out with a silky-smooth white and a perfectly runny yolk, while the taste retains that fresh egg flavor. If you haven’t tried poaching eggs in the air fryer, I highly recommend it!

Enjoy them in all the same ways you’d normally serve poached eggs. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and herbs, then add them to the top of avocado toast or serve them as part of eggs benedict with hollandaise.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Poached Eggs

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Eggs: For the ideal taste and texture, I recommend using farm-fresh eggs. It’s also best if they are large or extra large.
Avocado oil spray: To grease the ramekins, preventing the eggs from sticking. If you don’t have avocado oil spray, use canola or olive oil spray or melted butter.
Salt & pepper: Enhance the natural flavor of the eggs. Adjust both to preference. Himalayan pink salt or sea salt can be used for a different flavor profile.
Other seasonings: These are up to you! Feel free to play around with additional herbs and spices like paprika, chives, garlic powder, everything spice, or red pepper flakes.

How To Make Air Fryer Poached Eggs

Step 1: Prep The Ramekins

Start by preheating your air fryer. While preheating isn’t completely necessary, it reduces the total cooking time of the eggs. Lightly grease the ramekins with some avocado oil spray. This ensures your eggs will slide right out!

Step 2: Season The Eggs

Crack an egg into each ramekin, then sprinkle each one with some salt, pepper, and whatever other seasonings you’d like.

Step 3: Air Fry The Eggs

Pop the ramekins into the air fryer basket, making sure there is a little space between each one. Air fry them at 370F for 6-8 minutes depending on how runny or hard you prefer your yolks.

And there you have it! You’ve just made perfectly poached eggs without even boiling water.

Do I Have To Add Hot Water To The Ramekins?

I don’t find it necessary to add hot water to the ramekins before poaching eggs in an air fryer. The circulating heat from the air fryer is enough to cook the eggs directly.

However, for a more traditional preparation, you can add a few tablespoons of water to each ramekin before adding the cracked egg.

Recipe Variations

Eggs Benedict: Serve your air fryer poached eggs on an English muffin with bacon and a drizzle of homemade hollandaise sauce.
Southwestern style: Top them with salsa, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Spicy: Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes before air frying.
Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese on top before air frying for a cheesy layer.
Bacon wrapped: Wrap the ramekin’s edge with a bacon strip before cracking in the egg.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Ramekins: Ensure your ramekins are oven-safe and fit comfortably in your air fryer. They should also be deep enough to hold the eggs without overflowing.
Preheat properly: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
Monitor the eggs: Check the egg at the 6-minute mark to gauge the runniness of the yolk and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Avoid overcrowding: If you’re cooking multiple eggs, make sure the ramekins aren’t touching, allowing air to circulate freely.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you make a few extra poached eggs for later, follow these simple storage tips:

Fridge: Store leftover poached eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze poached eggs as the texture can become rubbery when they’re thawed.
Reheating: Place the egg in simmering water for about a minute to reheat without overcooking. You can also reheat it in the air fryer for a minute at 300F, but watch it closely to avoid overcooking.

Additional Recipes

If you love the convenience of air fryers, check out some more of my favorite recipes like these:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when air fryer poached eggs are done?

Your air fryer poached eggs are done when the whites are set and the yolks are slightly runny, but you can cook them longer if you prefer a firmer yolk.

Why is my egg sticking to the ramekin?

If your egg is sticking to the ramekin, you likely didn’t grease it well enough. Make sure to use a generous amount of spray oil to prevent sticking.

Can I cook more than one egg in a ramekin?

Yes, but make sure the ramekin is large enough and adjust the cooking time.

10-Minute Air Fryer Poached Eggs

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword Breakfast, eggs, poached eggs

Prep Time 3

Cook Time 7

Total Time 10

Servings

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ramekins or other oven-proof ramekin-style dish
Air Fryer

Ingredients

Eggs
cooking spray
salt and pepper to taste or other seasonings as desired

Instructions

Preheat air fryer to 370 degrees (takes about 5 minutes)
Lightly grease ramekins and crack one egg in each ramekin.
Season as desired.
Place ramekins in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 370 degrees F for 6-8 minutes until the yolk of the egg reaches your desired doneness.

Notes

*After about 7 minutes, the egg yolk will be soft and runny. Ideal for Eggs Benedict.

Nutrition

Serving: 1

The post Air Fryer Poached Eggs appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Frozen Waffles

Anna Kate — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Don’t have time for homemade waffles? Air fryer frozen waffles are a quick, easy, and no-fuss breakfast that requires minimal effort and almost no cleanup. Enjoy them in the morning, as a snack on the go, or as part of a brunch spread.

Make busy mornings a breeze with this fuss-free, kid-approved breakfast. If you haven’t made air fryer waffles before, put that toaster oven down! You won’t be needing it again.

Just pull the waffles out of the freezer and pop them straight into the air fryer basket. It’s honestly that easy! Say goodbye to soft, soggy, and rubbery waffles.

This recipe results in crispy, golden-brown, and consistently-cooked waffles every time. It’s as though they’re freshly made! Enjoy them plain or with toppings like butter, syrup, and whipped cream.

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick: Breakfast is ready in less than 10 minutes from start to finish! No need to thaw.
Easy: Just pop frozen waffles in the air fryer and press start. It’s so easy, you can do it with your eyes closed!
Crispy: The air fryer makes everything taste better! Turn frozen waffles into a crispy masterpiece with the click of a button.
Customizable: Choose your favorite waffle flavor, add whipped cream, pair them with sliced fruit, or drizzle on chocolate sauce. There are so many ways to make air fryer frozen waffles your own!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Waffles

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Frozen waffles: My go-to brand is usually Eggo waffles, but there are so many options nowadays. Just choose your favorite variety! You can even use whole wheat waffles for a healthier option.

How To Make Frozen Waffles In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Add the waffles to the basket

Place the frozen waffles in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in an even layer and aren’t touching. If they are overlapping, they will steam and turn out soggy.

Note: No cooking spray or oil is necessary for this recipe, but you’re welcome to use it if you prefer. In this case, opt for neutral vegetable oil.

Step 2: Cook the waffles

Air fry the waffles at 360°F/180°C for 4 minutes. Flip the waffles over and continue to cook them for another 1-3 minutes, or until they reach your preferred doneness. Serve them immediately while hot!

What To Serve With Air Fryer Waffles

You can never go wrong with classic waffle toppings like butter and syrup. If you want, try spicing up your air fryer frozen waffles with decadent garnishes like whipped cream, icing sugar, chocolate sauce, jam, nut butter, fresh fruit, or fruit compote.

For a full brunch spread, pair your waffles with crispy baked bacon, Ambrosia salad, cheesy hash browns, and baked apples.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Preheat the air fryer: While it’s technically not necessary to preheat an air fryer, it helps to more evenly cook food when recipes are shorter (like this one).
Don’t thaw the waffles: Don’t let your frozen waffles thaw, and avoid using fresh waffle batter. In both cases, the waffles will stick and make a mess in your air fryer basket.
Leave space: If you let the waffles overlap too much, they will steam rather than crisp up. Make sure to spread them out and cook them in batches if need be!
Watch them: Cooking times may vary depending on the brand of air fryer or the thickness of the waffle you’re using.

What To Do With Leftovers

Of course, my best suggestion is to just prepare frozen waffles fresh each day since they take so little time. But if you end up with leftover air fryer waffles, follow these simple storage tips:

Fridge: Transfer your waffles to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Freezer: You can refreeze frozen waffles by wrapping them in aluminum foil, transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and freezing them for up to 1 month. Just note, both the taste and texture may vary slightly once cooked again.
Reheating: Reheating your waffles is just as easy as making them the first time around. Add them to the air fryer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until warmed through.

Additional Recipes

If you’re looking for more tasty breakfast ideas, look no further:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make homemade waffles in the air fryer?

While it’s not possible to make waffles from scratch directly in the air fryer, you can absolutely heat up any type of frozen waffle, including homemade ones. You will need to use a silicone mold to cook waffle batter in the air fryer.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before making frozen waffles?

You don’t need to preheat the air fryer, but it’s best to preheat it for 3-5 minutes before adding the waffles for the most even cooking and consistent results.

Do I have to add oil or spray to my air fryer basket before cooking frozen waffles?

It’s not necessary to add oil to the air fryer basket before cooking frozen waffles. If you’re finding your waffles are sticking, you may want to try greasing the basket with cooking spray or oil beforehand.

How long do you cook frozen waffles in an air fryer?

To cook air fryer frozen waffles, you just have to take them out of the package and add them to an air fryer while still frozen. It should take about 5-7 minutes at 360 degrees F to fully cook frozen waffles. This may vary slightly depending on the make and model of your air fryer.

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Waffles

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword Breakfast, waffles

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings waffles

Calories 97kcal

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

2 Frozen Waffles

Instructions

Place the frozen waffles in the air fryer basket in an even layer (make sure they aren’t overlapping).
Air Fry at 360°F for 4 minutes. Flip the waffles over and continue to Air Fry for another 1-3 minutes or until to your preferred doneness.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Frozen Waffles appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Anna Kate — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Sweet and tender air fryer cinnamon roll bites are ready to eat in just 6 minutes! Made from canned cinnamon rolls, this recipe is simple to make and will quickly become a family favorite for weekend brunches. Just don’t forget the cream cheese frosting for dipping them in!

Whether you prefer cinnamon rolls for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, there’s no denying that making them in the air fryer is by far the quickest and easiest method. Don’t get me wrong, making cinnamon rolls from scratch is something all of us want to do, but sometimes we just don’t have the extra time!

Do yourself a favor and make life easier with this air fryer cinnamon roll bites recipe! You’ll be everyone’s favorite person in the morning when your family wakes up to the sweet, warming smells of cinnamon rolls.

Why I Love This Recipe

Simple: There’s nothing easier than opening a can, cutting the dough, and popping them in the air fryer.
Quick: You’ll have breakfast on the table in less than 15 minutes from start to finish. Use this recipe during busy mornings, or make weekend breakfasts extra special by including these bites in a full spread.
Few ingredients: One can of cinnamon rolls and a 4-ingredient cream cheese frosting is all you need. For how delicious the final result is, there aren’t a lot of moving parts!

Which Cinnamon Rolls Are Best?

The cinnamon roll brand you go for depends entirely on your preferences, budget, and availability. I’ve listed a few brands to help you decide, but any brand should do the trick.

Pillsbury: For a nostalgic feel and flavor, Pillsbury takes the cake (or should I say the cinnamon roll)! They are not too cinnamon-forward, light in texture, and have the best icing in my opinion. Plus, they are the most widely available brand on the market.
Immaculate: A great option if you are trying to be more health-conscious. These rolls are made with whole wheat flour and organic ingredients, so you can feel better about indulging in extra air fryer cinnamon roll bites!
Great Value: If you are on a budget, you can’t go wrong with Great Value! They don’t have quite the same taste as the other options, but the price point is hard to beat.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Cinnamon rolls: For this recipe, I used Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls with Original Icing, which comes with 8 rolls per can. Although, you can use whichever brand you prefer or is available near you.
Granulated sugar: Regular granulated sugar is best, but cane sugar will also work!
Cinnamon: The best flavor comes from Ceylon (true) cinnamon, providing a quintessential cinnamon roll flavor. But, cassia cinnamon can be substituted in a pinch.
Cream cheese: To make the base of the dipping icing. Make sure it is softened before starting to beat the cream cheese and butter together.
Butter: Adds a rich flavor and texture to the dip. Regular or unsalted both work. Again, make sure it is softened!
Powdered sugar: For sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth icing dip consistency. If you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, blend some granulated sugar and a little cornstarch into a fine powder.
Milk: You just need a couple of tablespoons to thin the icing. Use regular 2%, whole milk, or non-dairy milk of your choice.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Step 1: Prepare The Air Fryer

Cut an 8-inch round of cooking parchment paper, then place it in the bottom of your air fryer basket. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Divide the Cinnamon Rolls

Separate the cinnamon roll dough into 8 equal pieces. Cut each roll into 4 equal quarters, then place 16 pieces in the bottom of the air fryer basket. Set the icing that comes in the can aside for now.

Step 3: Air Fry The Cinnamon Roll Bites

Set the air fryer to 325 degrees F, and cook the cinnamon roll bites for 3 minutes. Using tongs, turn the bites over, then cook them for another 2 to 3 minutes.

When they appear golden brown, remove the cinnamon roll bites from the air fryer, and repeat the same process with the remaining 16 pieces.

Step 4: Make The Dip

In the meantime, add the cinnamon and granulated sugar to a large resealable food-storage plastic bag. Close the bag and shake the mixture until it is well combined.

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed. When the mixture is smooth, beat in the powdered sugar, reserved icing, and enough milk to make a dip consistency.

Step 5: Assemble

Add the warm bites to the bag of cinnamon sugar, then shake to coat the pieces evenly. Serve your cinnamon roll bites warm with a side of dipping icing.

What To Serve With Cinnamon Roll Bites

For a full breakfast or brunch spread, serve your air fryer cinnamon roll bites with recipes like a breakfast casserole, baked apples, sheet pan pancakes, a hashbrown casserole, or crispy baked bacon.

While I highly recommend the cream cheese dipping icing, you can pair your bites with chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, buttercream, or regular icing.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Cut into even sizes: For consistent results, make sure to cut each cinnamon roll bite into equivalent portions.
Shake halfway: Don’t forget to shake or flip the bites halfway so they cook evenly on all sides.
Don’t forget the dip: The dip is arguably the best part. Don’t skip making it!

What To Do With Leftovers

Fridge: Once cooled, transfer the cinnamon roll bites to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The cream cheese frosting will last for up to a week as long as it’s stored in a clean container.
Freezer: You can prepare air fryer cinnamon roll bites ahead of time or freeze leftovers. Just make sure they’re cooled, then store them for 1-2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: If frozen, thaw the cinnamon rolls in the fridge overnight. Heat them in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 325 degrees F, or until warmed all the way through.

Additional Recipes

For more sweet treats, take a look at some of my most popular recipes right now:

Frequently Asked Questions

Are air fryer cinnamon roll bites gluten-free?

No, air fryer cinnamon roll bites are not gluten-free. Since this recipe is made with Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, it contains wheat. However, you can use your favorite brand of premade gluten-free cinnamon roll dough.

Best Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, cinnamon roll, sweets

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 6

Total Time 11

Servings people

Calories 122kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

1 Air Fryer

Ingredients

8 count Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls with Original Icing 8 Count
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Dipping Icing Ingredients

4 ounces cream cheese softened
1 tablespoon butter softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 teaspoons milk

Instructions

Air Fry the Cinnamon Rolls

Cut an 8-inch round piece of cooking parchment paper. Place in bottom of air fryer basket.
Separate each cinnamon roll (8 rolls). Then, cut each roll into 4 equal pieces. Place all 16 pieces in the bottom of the air fryer basket. Set icing aside.
Preheat the air fryer to 325°F. Cook for 3 minutes, turn each piece over, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the air fryer. Repeat in batches as needed.

Make the Cinnamon Sugar

Meanwhile, in a large resealable food-storage plastic bag, mix cinnamon and granulated sugar. Set aside.

Make the Cream Cheese Dipping Icing

In a small bowl, beat cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Next, beat in powdered sugar, reserved icing, and enough milk for desired dipping consistency.
Shake warm cinnamon roll pieces in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve these warm with dipping icing.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites appeared first on Southern Cravings.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon

Anna Kate — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 17:49:25 +0000

Learning how to cook turkey bacon couldn’t be easier! This simple guide will show you how to create a perfectly crispy texture every time. Whether you’re looking to use the air fryer or the oven, this post is for you!

We’re all told there are health benefits of switching from pork bacon to turkey bacon, but turkey bacon always seems to turn out bland and floppy. Well, that problem ends today!

I’ll show you how to achieve crispy and flavorful bacon in no time using the oven or air fryer. Spoiler alert — it’s much easier than you think!

Why I Love This Recipe

Consistent: Once you try this recipe, you’ll know how to cook turkey bacon with your eyes closed! Find the optimal crisp for you, then put things on repeat!
Easy: You don’t have to sit beside a hot pan and watch your bacon like a hawk. Using the oven or the air fryer means a set-it-and-forget-it approach.
Less mess: No more bacon grease splatters on you or your kitchen! Both of these methods require very little effort in the cleanup department.

What Is Turkey Bacon?

Unlike pork bacon, which comes from the belly of a pig, turkey bacon is made from a mixture of dark and light turkey meat. It is seasoned to taste like bacon, then pressed into strips.

Since it’s a leaner cut of meat than pork bacon, the cooking technique is important in yielding a flavorful and crispy texture that will make you think twice before reaching for pork again. Don’t worry though, I’ve got you covered!

Is Turkey Bacon Healthier Than Pork Bacon?

Turkey bacon and pork bacon can both be part of a healthy and well-balanced diet. But, if you’re a die-hard bacon lover, switching a few mornings to turkey bacon may have some positive impacts on your waistline!

Turkey bacon contains fewer calories, fewer “bad” fats, and less cholesterol, making it a slightly better option for anyone with an increased risk of heart disease or diabetes. Regardless of whether it’s pork or turkey, it’s best to consume bacon in moderation!

What You’ll Need To Cook Turkey Bacon

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Turkey bacon: If you are trying to be more mindful of your cholesterol intake, turkey bacon is the ideal choice! I usually opt for nitrate-free, uncured turkey bacon since I like that it contains natural ingredients as opposed to chemical preservatives. Go for brands like Trader Joe’s, Applegate Naturals, and Wellshire for the best options.
Air fryer or oven: I’ve laid out options for how to cook turkey bacon in both an air fryer and an oven. I personally love how crispy my air fryer gets the slices, but you can also achieve similar results in the oven.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Prep The Bacon

First, you will need to add the turkey bacon slices to your air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the strips are not overlapping for optimal crispiness! If they are too long, cut the pieces in half.

Step 2: Air Fry The Bacon

Air fry the turkey bacon at 390 degrees F for 5 minutes. Flip the slices over, then cook them for another 3-5 minutes, depending on how crispy you prefer your bacon.

Step 3: Finish Cooking

Remove the turkey bacon from the air fryer, and serve it while hot and crispy! If you have more turkey bacon, continue cooking it the same way until all the remaining slices are gone.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon In The Oven

Step 1: Preheat The Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F, and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Optionally, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Bake The Bacon

Place the strips of turkey bacon on the wire rack, being careful not to overlap them. Bake the turkey bacon for 10 minutes, then flip the strips and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until crispy.

Note: The exact amount of time will vary based on the thickness of your bacon, your oven, and how crispy you prefer your bacon. I recommend starting to check on them after the 13 to 14-minute mark.

Step 3: Drain The Bacon

Remove the turkey bacon from the oven, and place them on paper towels to drain any excess grease. Serve the strips while warm!

What To Serve With Turkey Bacon

For a full breakfast spread, serve your turkey bacon with recipes like breakfast casserole with sausage, sheet pan pancakes, hashbrown casserole, or pressure cooker hard-boiled eggs.

Alternatively, use it as a garnish for soups and salads, or as an addition to sandwiches like BLTs. The options are virtually endless!

Recipe Variations

Use a toaster oven: If space is an issue in your kitchen (or you don’t own an oven), use a toaster oven! Follow the same principles and guidelines for using a regular oven.
Add seasonings: For an extra kick, add a crack of black pepper before baking or air-frying your turkey bacon!

Tips For The Best Recipe

Pat it dry: If your turkey bacon appears a little wet when you remove it from the package, make sure to thoroughly pat it dry for optimal crisp-ability.
Use a wire rack: Bake the turkey bacon on a wire rack for the best airflow all around the strips, which helps them crisp up beautifully. For easier cleanup, place a sheet of parchment paper or foil underneath the wire rack!
Flip the bacon: Don’t forget to flip the bacon at the halfway point, which will ensure an even crisp on both sides.
Keep a close eye: All oven temperatures vary slightly. Once you flip your turkey bacon, keep a closer eye on how quickly it’s browning to prevent it from burning.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you end up with leftover turkey bacon, store the strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

The easiest way to reheat the slices is in the air fryer. Set it to 300 degrees F, and cook the bacon in a single layer for 3-4 minutes, or until hot again. You can also heat the strips up in a microwave in 30-second bursts, or you can use a toaster oven set to 350 degrees F for 5-7 minutes.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed learning how to cook turkey bacon, be sure to check out a few more of my best how-to recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I cook turkey bacon?

Depending on the method of cooking, cooking turkey bacon takes anywhere from 10-20 minutes.

What is the fastest way to cook turkey bacon?

The fastest way to cook turkey bacon is by using an air fryer. It will take about 8-10 minutes to fully cook, depending on the thickness and how crispy you want it.

Can you overcook turkey bacon?

Yes, one of the most important tips is to not overcook turkey bacon. If it’s overcooked, it will turn out dry and leathery.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer recipe, Bacon, easy recipes

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Calories 1513kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

1 Air Fryer
1 Baking Sheet with rack

Ingredients

1 package turkey bacon

Instructions

Air Fryer Method

Add turkey bacon slices to air fryer basket in a single layer. If they are too long, cut the pieces in half.
Cook at 390 °F degrees for 5 minutes. Flip the slices over. Cook for another 3-5 minutes depending on how crisp you prefer your bacon.
Remove turkey bacon from air fryer and serve warm.
Cook remaining bacon slices.

Oven Method

Preheat oven to 400 °F and place baking rack on top of baking sheet.
Place strips of bacon on baking rack, careful not to overlap. Bake 10 minutes, then flip bacon strips and bake another 10 minutes.
Remove from oven and place on paper towels to drain any remaining grease.

Nutrition

The post How to Cook Turkey Bacon appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Baked Apple Recipe

Anna Kate — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 13:53:41 +0000

This baked apple recipe is a comforting and easy dessert made in a flash! Harvest-fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and brown sugar come together as a delicious topping to serve with ice cream or over hot oatmeal. This apple recipe is perfect for the fall season after a day of apple picking. With just the right amount of sweetness, this recipe makes a great dessert or topping for pancakes, french toast, or waffles.

With just a few minutes of hands-on prep and mixing, you can have a cozy little dessert baking in the oven! One of the best parts of this recipe is that your whole house smells of delicious cinnamon apples. It feels so much like home when I make this recipe. The sweetness of the apples, the warm cinnamon sugar…it’s simply the perfect recipe for the fall season.

Why I love this recipe

Simple ingredients: Everyday ingredients are easily transformed into a complex-tasting treat. Your friends and family will be pleasantly surprised!
Versatile: Serve this baked apple recipe as a dessert with vanilla ice cream, on top of your morning porridge, pancakes, or waffles. There are so many ways to use them!
Inexpensive: The necessary ingredients are relatively inexpensive and accessible, especially when apples are in season.
Allergen-friendly: This baked apple recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free, and oil-free, making it a great option for most dietary needs.

What are baked apples?

Baked apples are such an easy recipe for a flavorful dessert. Sliced apples are tossed with cinnamon, brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and butter, then baked in the oven for just 30 minutes.

The end result is sweet, tender, and fragrant baked cinnamon apples that are bound to be a fan favorite!

Do I have to peel apples before baking?

I don’t personally peel my apples before baking them. Plus, the skin is what contains most of the nutrients and fiber found in this fruit! However, the choice is really up to you. Try them both ways to see what you prefer!

Ingredients for baked cinnamon apples

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Apples: I prefer a combination of Granny Smith and Red Delicious for this baked apple recipe. However, other apple varieties that work well include Fuji, Braeburn, Pink Lady, Rome Beauty, Golden Delicious, or Honeycrisp.
Brown sugar: The molasses in brown sugar provides rich, caramel, and almost toffee-like notes. If you don’t have brown sugar, replace it with granulated sugar and a touch of molasses.
Lemon juice: For a little tartness that balances the sweetness of the apples. Lemon juice also helps prevent too much browning. Use freshly-squeezed lemons over lemon juice from a bottle.
Cinnamon: I love the sweet, warming, and cozy taste of cinnamon. It creates the most intoxicating aroma when the apples are baking! Always use Ceylon cinnamon over cassia cinnamon whenever possible as it offers a much more balanced flavor.
Cornstarch: To thicken the juices from the apples and lemons, creating a most delicious syrup consistency!
Unsalted butter: For a rich and creamy element that rounds out the juiciness of the apples. Unsalted butter works best so you get to control the amount of salt in the recipe.

How to make this baked apple recipe

Step 1: Core & slice the apples

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Core and slice the apples, then transfer them to a lightly greased 9×13 baking dish.

As I mentioned, I prefer to not peel the apples, but it’s a personal preference! If you like your apples without skin, peel them before slicing.

Step 2: Toss the apples

Add the brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch to the baking dish. Toss them with the apples until they are coated well in the cinnamon mixture.

Step 3: Add the butter

Spread the apples out in an even layer and add pats of butter all over the dish.

Step 4: Bake the apples

Bake the apples uncovered in the oven for 30-40 minutes. Make sure you give them a stir every 10 minutes or so.

Once tender and soft, allow the dish to rest on the counter for about 10 minutes before serving your baked cinnamon apples.

How to serve baked apples

This recipe is one of my favorites because of how versatile it is! Serve the baked apple slices as-is, topped with vanilla bean ice cream, or paired with a dollop of whipped cream.

Add a sweet oat topping before baking to make a quick apple crisp. They’re also spectacularly delicious on top of pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or granola for an extra special breakfast or brunch.

Recipe variations

Spices: Instead of just baked cinnamon apples, try adding more spices like cloves, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, pumpkin pie spice, apple pie spice, or even a sprinkle of cayenne for a kick!
Nuts: Add chopped pecans, almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a delicious crunch.
Fruit: Add pear slices, dried cranberries, cherries, raisins, blueberries, or blackberries.
Sugar: For a healthier version, use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar.

Tips for the best recipe

Consistent slices: Make sure you slice the apples the same thickness so they cook evenly in the oven.
Baking time: Depending on how thin or thick you slice the apples, the baking time may change. Keep this in mind when you’re planning out your recipe.
Stir throughout: Ensure you stir the apples every 10-15 minutes to mix everything together. This will prevent burning and properly coat each apple slice.

What to do with leftovers

Let the apples cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the oven in a baking dish at 350°F degrees for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warm.

More fall recipes

Here are some more dessert recipes to try this fall…

FAQ

What are the best apples for baking?

In this baked apple recipe, I use Granny Smith and Red Delicious. Both types work well when they’re baked. Other options include Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Pink Lady, Braeburn, and Rome Beauty.

Can I freeze baked apples?

Although you can freeze baked apples, the texture changes when they thaw, making them less than ideal. It’s best to consume them right away or store them in the fridge.

Can I microwave baked apples?

Yes, you can microwave baked apples. Add all of the ingredients to a microwave-safe bowl and cook it for 3-5 minutes, stirring every 30-60 seconds.

Best Baked Apple Recipe (With Cinnamon)

Best Baked Apple Recipe with Cinnamon

This baked apple recipe is a comforting and easy dessert made in a flash! Fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and brown sugar come together as a delicious topping to serve with ice cream or over hot oatmeal. With just the right amount of sweetness, this recipe makes a great dessert or topping for pancakes, french toast, or waffles.

Course Dessert Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword apples, baked apples, fall recipes

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Servings people

Calories 152kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

cooking spray
5-6 large apples combo of granny smith and red delicious
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons butter unsalted and sliced in pats

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F degrees.
Core and slice (do not peel) the apples and transfer them to a lightly greased 9×13 baking dish.
Add the remaining ingredients (except butter) and toss until the apples are coated in the cinnamon mixture.
Spread in an even layer and add the pats of butter.
Place in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes (uncovered), stirring every 10-15 minutes.
When the apples are done, rest on the counter for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to thicken.
Serve warm over vanilla ice cream!

Nutrition

The post Baked Apple Recipe appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Fluffy Sheet Pan Pancakes Recipe

Anna Kate — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 17:02:07 +0000

The best way to make pancakes for a crowd is right here! Made with a boxed mix, this sheet pan pancake recipe makes delicious, fluffy pancakes that are ready to serve a crowd in just 20 minutes. No more standing over a hot stove or eating pancakes in shifts. Top with fresh fruits, butter, and syrup, and enjoy!

If you thought sheet pan meals were just for dinner, think again! Sheet Pan meals are super trendy, but this trend may stick around for good. I love a good one-pot wonder for any meal, so if you are interested in saving dishes, check out my recipes there.

Pancakes are a fan favorite! But, they are a lot of hands-on work for whoever is cooking them. Now, slaving over a hot stove and flipping pancakes is a thing of the past when this breakfast icon is baked in the oven.

The thing I love most about this recipe is that you can use it to feed your family on Saturday mornings or feed a whole house full of visitors. Whatever size crowd, this recipe will solve all of your breakfast woes. You can even make the batter ahead of time and bake in the morning!

If you love make-ahead breakfasts, definitely check out this overnight breakfast casserole and old-fashioned ambrosia salad for the makings of a beautiful Christmas breakfast or brunch.

How to Make Sheet Pan Pancakes

Many recipes will tell you to bake at a lower oven temperature for longer, but the hot, quick cooking time yields light and fluffy pancakes. While the pancake batter is only semi-homemade, the flavor is still delicious!

Here are a few kitchen tools I recommend to make this recipe easier:

Sheet Pan – This tool is key for the best results. You want to use a 1/2 size sheet pan, which measures about 17 x 13 inches and has a 1-inch rim around the edges.
Whisk
Wooden spoon
Pizza Cutter – I like to use a pizza cutter to cut quickly and evenly. This tool will just whiz right down the pan for perfectly square pancakes.

Notes on pancake ingredients

This recipe calls for Bisquick, but you can use any premade pancake mix in its place. Swap out the brand but keep the measurements and remaining ingredients the same.
The instructions say to add fruit to the batter before baking, but you can opt to use the fruits (or whatever else) as a topping instead of mixing into the batter.

Step 1: Make the pancake batter.

Grab a large mixing bowl and add in the pancake mix, eggs, and milk. Then, stir until the batter is just combined. The batter should be lumpy but without “streaks” of white flour.

1. Add ingredients to the bowl.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Make sure ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Be careful not to overmix.

You want to be careful not to overmix the batter as it will turn into chewy pancakes. And nobody likes that!

Step 2: Add toppings.

After the batter rests for about 5 minutes, pour into a lightly greased sheet pan. Sprinkle in the toppings in whatever order you like.

Pour batter into sheet pan and smooth until even.
Top with fruit as desired.

This recipe is great for picky eaters or a group with different pallets. Try splitting the pan in half or quarters by adding different toppings to the different sections of the pancake batter.

Step 3: Bake!

Bake uncovered in a 425F degree oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the center of the pancake is springy to the touch.

Allow the pancake to cool for a few minutes, then cut into 10-12 squares and serve. You can top with additional fruits, butter, or syrup!

Recipe Variations

Use different fruits. I recommend sticking to berries, like blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. You could also try sliced bananas, chopped apples, or peaches, but I haven’t tested this recipe with those options.
Stir nuts into the batter, like toasted walnuts or pecan halves for extra crunch and earthy flavor.
Add chocolate chips for extra sweetness and top with whipped cream.
Add in additional flavors like vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, etc.

What to serve with pancakes

Tips for baking pancakes

Experiment with different toppings

Try different fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, and other toppings that you family enjoys. You can also add the toppings just before serving for a plain, old-fashioned pancake.

If you have picky eaters, you can divide up different sections of the pancake and only add certain toppings to certain areas.

Broil for additional color

Some people may want a little additional color to their pancake. This recipe was created to yield a light and fluffy texture just like you would get from a restaurant. Because of that, the color is very light.

To add additional color, broil on low until the top is browned to your liking. Be aware that this may dry out the pancake.

Don’t overmix.

It’s tempting to whisk the batter until all the lumps are gone. However, overmixing activates the gluten in the batter which will result in a tougher, chewier pancake than you want.

Just mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and there are no patches of flour left. Some lumps are ok and will smooth out when the batter rests. The batter should be thick and not runny, with a few lumps.

Let the batter rest.

Allowing the batter to rest will help the gluten to relax and the lumps to smooth out slightly. This only takes about 5 minutes.

FAQ: Baked Pancakes

Why don’t my pancakes come out fluffy?

Overmixing pancake batter causes dense textures. Just mix until ingredients are well incorporated. That means there may be some lumps leftover.

What is the secret to making pancakes?

Make sure your ingredients are fresh and not expired. Don’t over mix the batter and allow it to rest before baking.

Does pancake batter need to rest?

Let rest for 5 minutes to allow the gluten to relax. Lumps will smooth a little during that time.

Should pancake batter be thin or thick?

Batter should be slightly lumpy and somewhat thick. It should ot be runny.

Sheet Pan Pancakes

The best way to make pancakes for a crowd! Made with a boxed mix, this sheet pan pancake recipe makes delicious, fluffy pancakes that are ready to serve a crowd in just 20 minutes. No more standing over a hot stove or eating pancakes in shifts. Top with fresh fruits, butter, and syrup, and enjoy!

Cuisine American

Keyword Breakfast, Christmas, christmas breakfast, crowd pleasing recipes, easy recipes, pancakes

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Resting Time 5

Total Time 20

Servings servings

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cups Bisquick or other pancake mix
2 cups milk
4 large eggs
1 cup strawberries washed and sliced
½ cup blueberries washed

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a ½ size sheet pan. Set aside.
To a large mixing bowl, combine pancake mix, eggs, and milk and stir just until the batter is combined. Do not over mix! The batter should be thick and not runny, with a few lumps.
Allow the pancake batter to rest for 5 minutes.*
Then, pour the pancake batter into the baking sheet. Smooth with the back of a wooden spoon so that the batter is distributed evenly.
Top the batter with fruit or other desired add-ins.
Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes or until the center is set and springy when touched.
When done, use a pizza cutter to slice the pancake into 10-12 pieces. Serve warm with additional fruit, butter, and syrup if desired.

Notes

Allowing the batter to rest will help the gluten to relax and the lumps to smooth out slightly.
To add additional color, broil on low until the top is browned to your liking. Be aware that this may dry out the pancake.
Try different fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, and other toppings that you family enjoys. You can also add the toppings just before serving for a plain, old-fashioned pancake.

Nutrition

Serving: 2grams

The post Fluffy Sheet Pan Pancakes Recipe appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Breakfast Casserole with Sausage

Anna Kate — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000

This overnight breakfast casserole is layered with eggs, sausage, and cheese over hearty slices of bread. Then, it’s baked in the oven for the most epic breakfast lover’s feast! Make this ahead for the perfect Christmas morning Brunch, breakfast for company, or as part of your weekly meal prep.

When it comes to family gatherings, breakfast is definitely the most overlooked meal. Forget the bagels and sugary pastries, you need a recipe that will keep everyone full until lunchtime. And this casserole is a great way to make the most delicious breakfast for a crowd.

This is the perfect breakfast casserol for breakfast or brunch, Christmas morning, Easter, or any other special occasion. We love to enjoy this over the holiday season with a mimosa in hand. This is one of those easy recipes that will be a family favorite!

Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

This great recipe can certainly feed a crowd, but it’s also perfect for a nice breakfast with your family. One casserole dish serves about 8-10 people, at least. While this is perfect for larger brunches or breakfasts, this can easily be portioned out to reheat and enjoy on busy school mornings.

Since this recipe does require sitting in your refrigerator overnight, make sure you plan ahead to make it the night before. Even with the overnight rest, it really does take the stress out of preparing breakfast the next morning.

Ingredients + Tools: Easy Breakfast Casserole

Bread: Use wheat, white, or whatever you have on hand. Day-old bread is best, so it can absorb the egg and milk mixture well.
Sausage: Use any breakfast sausage of your choice. I like Jimmy Dean. Mild, hot, sweet, or Italian sausage can also be used. Try Chorizo for an extra kick!
Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar cheese is my personal favorite, but any shredded cheese will work. Try pepper jack, cheddar, taco blend, etc.
Vegetables: If you want to bulk up this recipe, add mushrooms, green bell pepper, green onions, or other vegetables in one-cup increments.
Proteins: This casserole is pretty hearty with the sausage crumbles, but try diced ham, ground beef, or other protein instead.

Here are a few kitchen tools I recommend to make this recipe easier:

Casserole dish: I prefer a clear, glass casserole dish, but aluminum will work fine, too.
Disposable aluminum pan: If you want to minimize clean up, a disposable pan is the way to go! You will still need to spray your pan with cooking spray before assembling the casserole.

How to Make a Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

The main ingredients to this savory breakfast casserole are bread, eggs, cheese, and sausage. These ingredients are layered in a pan together and baked the next day.

Step 1: Prep the casserole.

First, layer the bread slices in the bottom of the dish. I usually use about 8 slices of bread to cover the bottoms and sides of the casserole dish.

Then, brown your sausage in a large skillet and drain off the grease. The sausage doesn’t need to be super finely crumbled. Just use your spoon to break apart the larger pieces of sausage into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Add the cooked sausage on top of the bread slices, and sprinkle a layer of cheese.

Then, in a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Season with salt and black pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage mixture.

Use a wooden spoon to press the edges of the bread into the mixture.

Step 2: Soak overnight.

Cover with foil and place the casserole dish in the refrigerator for 8 hours or up to overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg and milk mixture so your casserole isn’t runny.

Step 3: Bake

When you are ready to bake, let the casserole dish sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This helps the ingredients cook evenly and prevents your casserole dish from shattering as it’s transferred from a cold fridge to a hot oven.

Top the casserole with the remaining cheese, and place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven for about an hour, or until the center no longer jiggles.

What to serve with a breakfast casserole:

Reheating Breakfast Casserole

Overnight breakfast casserole can easily be reheated for leftovers. Cover the casserole dish with foil and place in a preheated 350F degree oven for about 20 minutes, or until warm.

Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole and Freezing Tips

Breakfast casserole can be made up to three days ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. If you wish to freeze the casserole, here are two ways:

Uncooked: Make this ahead of time and freeze the uncooked casserole in a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Defrost in the refrigerator until completely thawed. Bake according to the directions.
Cooked: Divide the cooked casserole into single portions and wrap in Glad Press’n Seal. Place each serving in a gallon freezer bag, label, and place in the freezer. Defrost and reheat the unwrapped casserole in an oven-safe dish at 350F degrees for about 20 minutes, or until warm.

Breakfast Casserole FAQ:

How long can breakfast casserole sit out?

A cooked breakfast casserole can sit out for about 2 hours. After 2 hours, there is an increased chance for bacteria to breed and the casserole to dry out.

How long is egg casserole good in the fridge?

Uncooked egg casserole is good for about 3 days in the refrigerator, and then is should be cooked and served.

Cooked egg casserole is good for up to three days in the refrigerator. Then, it should be frozen or thrown out.

How do you reheat egg casserole without overcooking?

Cover the casserole dish with foil and place in a preheated 350F degree oven for about 20 minutes, or until warm.

Do egg casseroles freeze well?

Yes, you can freeze this breakfast casserole cooked, cut into portions, and wrapped with Glad Press’n Seal. Freeze up 3-6 months.

Defrost in the refrigerator or on the counter until completely thawed. Bake according to the directions.

How long can breakfast casserole be refrigerated before cooking?

A breakfast casserole should be assembled and refrigerated for no more than 3 days before cooking.

Best Breakfast Casserole

This best breakfast casserole is made with cheese, eggs and mild sausage, and soaked overnight for easy baking in the morning. This recipe is perfect for hosting company or meal prepping breakfast for the week.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword Breakfast, casseroles, holiday recipes

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1

Overnight Rest 8

Total Time 9 20

Servings

Calories 287kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

cooking spray
1 pound breakfast sausage ground; mild, hot, or spicy
6-8 slices bread
8 ounces cheddar cheese shredded, plus more as desired
8 count large eggs beaten
2 cups whole milk
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange bread slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom and the sides of the casserole dish. Set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly. Drain if needed. Set aside.
Layer the browned sausage and cheese over the bread slices.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt and pepper.
Carefully pour the mixture over the cheese. Top with additional cheese if desired.
Bake casserole until set and golden – about 60 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

*Sausage: Feel free to substitute with any breakfast sausage, italian sausage or even chorizo.

*Bread: Can use wheat or white.

*Cheese: Can use any kind of shredded cheese to complement the ingredients you use.

*Additional note: This casserole is versatile and can easily be switched up with other veggies and toppings like peppers, onions, ham, bacon, mushrooms, etc.

Nutrition

The post Breakfast Casserole with Sausage appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Granny’s Classic Ambrosia Salad

Anna Kate — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:43:27 +0000

The original Ambrosia salad! this recipe is a simple mixture of fruit, crunchy pecans, and delicate coconut flakes. No fluff or marshmallows to be found! Make this ahead for holiday brunch, baby showers, wedding showers, tea parties and any special occasion.

This recipe could tell some stories! My great, great grandmother would serve this every Christmas…with a slice of real coconut cake. It wasn’t Christmas without Granny’s ambrosia!

Now, mom makes this as an accompaniment to our Christmas breakfast. It’s the perfect addition to a brunch menu and complements a hearty breakfast casserole and a mimosa just perfectly!

I was hesitant to even publish this “recipe” because it’s really not even a recipe at all. But after seeing versions mixed with cool whip, sour cream, and stuffed with mini marshmallows, I knew I had to share.

Now, I love a good cool whip coated dessert as much as the next Southern gal, but this is a recipe that can stand up on its own. No help needed!

In fact, I was relieved to discover that I wasn’t the only one who has a fruit-only recipe. Pam from Biscuits and Burlap has a similar ambrosia recipe as well as Virginia Willis.

What is ambrosia?

Ambrosia is a close relative to a fruit salad – just dressed up a bit. The fruit is mixed with crunchy pecans, sweet coconut flakes, and bright red maraschino cherries. It’s a beautiful presentation!

It’s a simple dish to put together in under 10 minutes but elegant enough to serve at brunches, tea parties, showers, and other special occasions and celebrations.

Why is it called ambrosia salad?

Ambrosia means immortality in ancient Greek, and was the food or drink of the Greek gods. It was supposed to bring about longevity or immortality to whomever consumed it.

Tips for Making this Recipe

You’ll see that this recipe calls for a can of sliced cling peaches in syrup. If you are making this when peaches are in season, you are welcomed to use fresh peaches.

Personally, I’m not a fan of canned peaches on their own, but the syrup helps with the sweetness. Instead of adding additional sugar, we stick to the canned peaches.

Of course, if you are allergic to coconut or pecans, leave them out. You could also swap them for a different nut, like walnuts or slivered almonds.

It’s best to prepare ambrosia ahead of time, so it has time to chill in the fridge. After it’s nice and cold, add the maraschino cherries, nuts, and coconut as a finishing touch!

More Festive Recipes

Classic Ambrosia Salad

A simple mixture of fruit, crunchy pecans, and delicate coconut flakes – perfect for holiday brunches, tea parties, showers, and special occasions.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword fruit, fruit salad, old fashioned recipe

Prep Time 5

Chill Time 1

Total Time 1 5

Servings people

Calories 325kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Large Serving Bowl
Holiday Serving Bowl

Ingredients

2 oranges peeled and sliced into bite-sized pieces
28 ounces canned sliced cling peaches with the syrup
1 ½ cups sweetened coconut flakes shredded
10 ounces maraschino cherry halves, drained 1 jar
½ cup pecans chopped, (toasted if desired)

Instructions

Peel, segment and cut the oranges into bite-sized pieces.
To a medium-sized serving bowl, add the oranges and the can of cling peaches, with the syrup. Stir to combine.
Allow the fruit mixture to chill in the refrigerator for about an hour.
When you are ready to serve, add the maraschino cherries, and garnish with the pecans and a sprinkle of the coconut.
Serve cold!

Notes

Please read the entire post for details, tips, and more!

Note 1: You can serve the coconut and pecans separately if desired.

Note 2: Feel free to use peaches in season if available. Sugar may be needed due to the absence of the peaches’ syrup with this alternative. (note: this recipes has not been tested with fresh peaches)

Note 3: Alternative to pecans: walnuts or slivered almonds. Ambrosia salad is best served icy cold, so be sure to allow plenty of time to chill.

Nutrition

The post Granny’s Classic Ambrosia Salad appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Crispy Baked Bacon Recipe

Anna Kate — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:00:23 +0000

The best bacon is baked bacon! Instead of the stovetop, the oven-baked version is mess-free and yields the perfect crispness. It’s the only way to make a large batch of your favorite breakfast side for a crowd.

Gone are the days of standing over a hot frying pan, with grease splattering everywhere! With this recipe, it’s as simple as preheating the oven and baking until your desired crispness is reached.

Plus, when is there ever a time when bacon isn’t a genius idea? Bake this ahead of time and use it during the week to add to sandwiches, salads, top twice-baked potatoes, loaded baked potatoes, or use it to make a warm bacon vinaigrette.

Serve this as a side dish with with:

How to Make Crispy Bacon in the Oven

5 Steps to Perfectly Baked Bacon!

Line your pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
Evenly space bacon out on the foil-lined pan. Avoid overlapping for even cooking.
Bake at 400 degrees for about 25 minutes, depending on desired crispiness. If you want even crispier pieces, place under the broiler for a minute or two, but watch carefully!
Immediately transfer cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
Wait until the grease cools, then toss the aluminum foil with the grease or drain into a jar for later use. No mess! No draining!

Tips for the Best Bacon

We have Nordic Ware baking sheets that come with a rack. We love this brand and have found it to be super sturdy and durable. The cooling rack can be used during baking or just for cooling. It’s super handy!

Make sure to keep a close watch on the oven! We bake our bacon at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes, but all ovens cook differently.

The bacon will be very hot and will continue cooking as it comes out of the oven. Keep this in mind as you near your favorite crispyness level!

One of the many perks of this recipe is that there is zero splatter, inside or outside of the oven. No need to slave over wiping down a greasy stove. It’s as simple as rendering the fat or tossing the aluminum foil when the grease has cooled.

Benefits of Baking Bacon vs. Frying Bacon

Here are a couple of key benefits to baking bacon instead of frying.

It’s mess-free! No more grease splattering, fans running, or burns! It’s as simple as assembling and baking.
It’s a time saver. With the oven doing most of the work, you’ve got enough time on your hands to prepare hard-boiled eggs, ambrosia salad, pancakes, etc.
It cooks evenly. No more undercooked centers or too-crispy ends. Every piece is cooked evenly and crisp.
It feeds a crowd. No more fretting over a busy stove for an hour, just to get the bacon done. Make this to feed a whole crowd.

Crispy vs. Chewy Bacon

There are two methods for making bacon in the oven: chewy and crispy.

Crispy is always our favorite way to go. Perfect for a BLT or breakfast!

Crispy Bacon: place bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet and follow the cooking temperature and time until it reaches just the right texture for you.
Chewy Bacon: place bacon on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet and follow the cooking temperature and time.

Baking bacon with or without a rack: Bacon without the rack will be crispier because the bacon cooks in its own grease.

Storing and reheating cooked bacon

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container or baggie. Bacon tends to keep for a long time because of the curing process. I would store in the refrigerator for no more than 1 week.

To reheat the cooked bacon, place on a paper towel or microwave-safe plate and heat for 15 seconds at a time.

Crispy Baked Bacon Recipe

The best bacon is baked bacon! Instead of the stovetop, the oven-baked version is mess-free and yields the perfect crispness. It's the only way to make a large batch of your favorite breakfast side for a crowd.

Cuisine American

Keyword Bacon, Breakfast

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Servings servings

Calories 473kcal

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

1 pound uncooked bacon of your choice
Cooking Spray*

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place the baking rack on top of the foil and lightly spray with cooking spray.*
Evenly space bacon on the cooling rack. Don’t overlap!
Bake at 400 degrees for about 20-25 minutes or until you reach desired crispiness.
Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
Allow the grease to cool. Then, carefully dispose of the aluminum foil and grease, or render the grease for later use.*

Notes

*cooking spray isn't necessary to keep the bacon from sticking, but it does help with the clean-up process.

Crispy vs. Chewy Bacon

Crispy Bacon: place bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet and follow the cooking temperature and time until it reaches just the right texture for you.
Chewy Bacon: place bacon on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet and follow the cooking temperature and time.

Serve this with:

Nutrition

The post Crispy Baked Bacon Recipe appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Banana Bread Muffins

Anna Kate — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 20:19:41 +0000

Learn how to make the best banana bread muffins with chocolate chips! These muffins are buttery and with a touch of sweetness from the chocolate chips. You can whip these up in just a few minutes and enjoy all week long. Made with Greek yogurt for extra moisture and protein, these are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

If you have frozen bananas taking up room in the freezer, it’s time to make chocolate chip banana bread muffins! I hate tossing out overripe bananas. Plus, they usually hangout in the freezer for far too long. But, this recipe is on repeat around here and I love how easy it is to make!

The Best Banana Muffins with Chocolate Chips

Are you craving the comforting goodness of banana bread but don’t have the time or patience to wait for a loaf to bake? Look no further! These easy banana muffins are here to save the day as a foolproof way to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.

Banana bread muffins offer the same irresistible taste of a traditional banana bread recipe but in a convenient, handheld form. Perfect for breakfast on the go, a quick snack, or a delightful dessert, these muffins are versatile and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Why These Are the Best Banana Bread Muffins:

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and baking time, these are the perfect muffins for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
Perfectly Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and butter ensures that these muffins stay moist and tender.
Irresistible Flavor: The addition of chocolate chips takes these muffins to the next level, adding pockets of gooey chocolate goodness in every bite.
Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist these delicious muffins. They make a great snack or lunchbox treat for kids of all ages.

Why I love this recipe

While a loaf of banana bread is pretty simple to make, these muffins are great as a grab and go option. You can smear them with peanut butter for a little extra protein, or nutella for extra sweetness!

I really love how this recipe uses freshly mashed bananas and frozen bananas. All you need to do is defrost them if they are frozen and you are ready to go!

Plus, these muffins are freezer friendly, so you can make a double-batch and freeze for later. Just defrost in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave for a freshly-baked comforting treat! Ideal for those who love to meal prep!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

It’s all about simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these moist and flavorful treats in no time.

Leavening agents: Baking soda, flour, salt, and sugar all work together in this recipe to make a fluffy but moist muffin.
Softened butter: For best results, leave the butter on the kitchen counter overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften. You can also pop in the microwave at 5-10 second intervals until softened.
Mashed bananas: You will need about 3 overripe, defrosted bananas for this recipe. If you are using fresh bananas, remove them from the peel and mash them with a fork until they are smooth.
Greek yogurt: The yogurt in this recipe keeps the inside of the muffin moist and adds a little extra protein to the recipe.
Chocolate chips: You will need about a cup of chocolate chips. You can use dark chocolate, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate chips – whichever you prefer.

You can also omit the chocolate chips altogether or add in a cup of berries or nuts in its place.

How to Make the Best Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a muffin pan with paper liners or silicone muffin cups and spray lightly with cooking spray.

Step 1: Mash the bananas

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Set aside. Add the melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas, and stir until well combined.

Step 2: Make the banana muffin batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

You can also use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this part. Although a wooden spoon works just as well.

Step 3: Add in the chocolate chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter. You can also swap the chocolate chips for berries or nuts.

Step 4: Bake the muffins

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

I like to use a ¼ cup measuring cup to spoon the batter into the muffin tin. It’s the perfect amount to fill each muffin tin.

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. I like to add a pat of butter to the tops of the muffins before serving.

Variations

This easy recipe is just as delicious without the chocolate chips! If you choose to leave them out, no harm will be done, and you will still have delicious, moist banana bread muffins as a result.

Here are some other add-ins for banana bread muffins. About 1-1 ½ cups are recommended.

Peanut butter chips
Chopped pecans
Cinnamon, other spices
Dried fruits, like blueberries, cranberries, apricots

You can also make these muffins as a loaf, instead. Extend the cook time by 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

This recipe has not been tested as mini muffins, so if you choose that option, it’s recommended to cut the muffin cooking time in half.

What Can You Serve with Banana Bread Muffins?

This would go great with any breakfast or brunch dish.

Here are more recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you freeze bananas?

We usually toss them in the freezer with the peel on as they are almost always intended for banana bread later. But, if you are a smoothie lover, peel them and cut them in half before freezing so you can just add them to the blender when ready.

How do you defrost bananas?

I pull our bananas directly out of the freezer and allow them to defrost in the sink for about an hour or so.

How to get a frozen banana out of its peel

Wait until the banana has thawed completely, then snip one end off of the banana and squeeze the banana out like a toothpaste tube. Yep, not glamorous or pretty, but it gets the job done!

Can you freeze muffins?

Absolutely! Allow your muffins to cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and place into a freezer bag. Thaw muffins by placing them on the counter for about an hour, or nuked in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Storing and Reheating

You can store these on the kitchen counter in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days.

Freezer:

When completely cooled, wrap the muffins in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost on the counter overnight. Warm in the microwave.

Reheating:

To warm, remove plastic wrap and place on a paper towel. Heat for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.

More Breakfast Recipes

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Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Muffins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword banana, Breakfast, meal prep, muffins

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Servings muffins

Calories 291kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

¾ teaspoon baking soda
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
¼ cup butter softened
2 eggs
1 ½ cups mashed bananas about 3 bananas, thawed
⅓ cup plain low-fat greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips
cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper or silicone liners. Lightly spray muffin tin with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add the melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas, and whisk until well combined.
n a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

The post Banana Bread Muffins appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Eggs

Anna Kate — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:50:00 +0000

Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Eggs and the 5-5-5 method are the secrets for easy peel eggs! Ready in 15 minutes, you never have to worry about broken whites or ugly eggs ever again. You can use this recipe for any electric pressure cooker!

The number one thing I always struggle with: peeling boiled eggs! If you’ve tried to find the secret for years as I have, you probably found lots of advice that didn’t consistently work.

I’ve heard that adding vinegar to the water will help, using older eggs, using store-bought…the list goes on.

BUT! It wasn’t until I was introduced to the 5-5-5 method for pressure cooking eggs that I realized this didn’t have to be so painful.

These eggs peel like a dream! They don’t break or stick to the shell, and you don’t have to plan weeks in advance for easy peel eggs!

This recipe uses the same steps and liquid amount whether you are cooking 2 eggs or twenty! No green rings!

What is the 5-5-5 method?

The 5-5-5 Method is:

5 minutes of high-pressure cook time
5 minutes of natural release
5 minutes in an ice bath

The result is easy-to-peel eggs with a hard-boiled, but creamy center!

If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can steam eggs on the stovetop with a steamer basket.

Recipes using pressure cooker boiled eggs

You can make these for breakfast, meal prep, deviled eggs, and egg salad – just to name a few. Use them to top a spinach salad for extra protein, too.

You can also use this method for dying easter eggs!

Instructions & pressure cooking details

#1. To your pressure cooker, add the trivet and pour 1 ½ cups of water in the bottom of the pressure cooker pot.

#2. Place eggs on the trivet. Make sure the lid and steam release valves are sealed. Set the unit to high-pressure for 5 minutes.

The unit will take some time to come to pressure, but after the eggs have cooked for 5 minutes, allow the unit to naturally release the pressure for another 5 minutes.

This means you do not have to touch the unit or anything for 5 minutes.
(my unit switches to “keep warm” automatically and has a timer.)

#3. When the 5 minutes is up, release the remaining pressure from the unit.

#4. Carefully remove the eggs with tongs and place them in the ice bath for 5 minutes.

Then, you can peel and store or continue on with your recipe.

Troubleshooting

I noticed an egg or two tend to break open during cooking – most likely during the natural release. It does not affect the taste. It’s simply a cosmetic flaw.

Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Eggs

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword eggs, how to, meal prep

Cook Time 10

Ice Bath 5

Total Time 15

Servings egg halves

Calories 72kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

2-12 eggs
1 ½ cups water plus more for ice bath
2 cups of ice cubes

Instructions

Place the trivet and 1 ½ cups of water in the bottom of the pressure cooker pot.
Place eggs on the trivet. Seal the lid and steam release valve.
Set the unit to high-pressure for 5 minutes.
After the cook time is complete, allow the unit to naturally release the pressure for another 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, prep the ice bath by filling a bowl of ice and cold water.
When the 5 minutes natural release is up, release the remaining pressure from the unit.
Carefully remove the eggs with tongs and place them in the ice bath for 5 minutes.
Then, peel and store for up to 5 days.

Notes

Please read the entire post for details, tips, and more!

Note: Do not touch the unit during the 5 minutes of natural release (my unit switches to the “keep warm” setting automatically, and has a timer.).

Nutrition

The post Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Eggs appeared first on Southern Cravings.