Easy 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Muffins (Dairy-Free and Egg-Free)

by Lindsay | Nov 13, 2024 | Food

Fall is an amazing time to get back into the kitchen and start breaking out those delectable dessert recipes again. And pumpkin will always a must-have ingredient this time of year. But as someone sensitive to eggs, dairy, and other common ingredients, it’s been a challenge to find sweet baked treats that I can enjoy without regretting it later. Enter: these wonderful pumpkin spice muffins that only have 3 ingredients! Not only are they super easy and quick, but they’re also perfectly festive, deliciously dense, and a treat that I look forward to every autumn. They might not be a traditional airy muffin, but honestly, I think the texture makes them even better.

This recipe only requires 3 ingredients, just a few simple steps, and only takes a few minutes to prep making it ideal for busy fall days when you want a quick, cozy treat.

3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Muffins (Egg-Free, Dairy-Free)

Makes about 12 muffins (or a small loaf if you prefer)

Ingredients:

• 1 box of spice cake mix (I typically use Duncan Hines, but feel free to use any brand you prefer)
• 1 (15 oz) can of pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Dark chocolate chips (optional) — or substitute with nuts, or skip entirely for a simpler muffin

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup for easier cleanup.
2. Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix with the pumpkin puree. Stir until well mixed. (It’ll be thick like peanut butter, so a spoon or spatula works best here!)
3. Add your extras: If you’re adding dark chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in at this stage.
4. Fill the muffin cups: Spoon the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
5. Bake: Start with 15 minutes at 350°F, then check with a knife or toothpick. If it comes out clean, they’re done! If not, bake for an additional few minutes. I personally needed to bake for 25 minutes total, but you’ll want to watch them closely toward the end so the tops don’t begin to burn.
6. Cool and enjoy: Let them cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a rack. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

Note: These muffins are dense and moist, which is what I love about them! The pumpkin puree adds extra richness, making them taste indulgent and satisfying.

Extra Tips:

• For a little extra sweetness, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top once they’ve cooled.
• If you want to go all out, try a dollop of dairy-free cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style treat.
• For something more sliceable, you could make this as a small loaf—perfect for spreading with dairy-free butter or a touch of almond butter.

Why These Muffins Are Perfect for Fall

This recipe captures everything I love about autumn baking without triggering my (many!) sensitivities. Pumpkin spice muffins are warm, fragrant, and make the kitchen smell amazing while they’re baking. Plus, they’re versatile: bake them as muffins for easy snacking or cupcakes or spoon the batter into a loaf pan for a more traditional (yet dense) pumpkin bread. The dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the pumpkin and spice, but you can skip it or replace it with nuts if that’s more your style.

Storage Tips for Freshness

To keep these muffins tasting their best, here are some storage suggestions.

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They taste great chilled, or you can warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
• In the Freezer: These muffins freeze well. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just pop one in the microwave or let it thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

These pumpkin spice muffins are the perfect example of a quick, allergy-friendly fall treat that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you make them for a cozy weekend snack, a work treat, or even a festive addition to a fall gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.

Happy baking and happy fall!

-LS

Easy and Refreshing Summer Drink Recipes

by Lindsay | Jul 31, 2024 | Food

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, refreshing drinks that cool you down and keep you hydrated. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging by the pool, or simply relaxing on your patio, these easy-to-make summer beverages will add a delightful touch to your sunny days. Here are some of my favorite summer drink recipes that are sure to become your go-to refreshers.

1. Classic Lemonade

Nothing says summer quite like a glass of classic lemonade. It’s simple, tangy, and utterly refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 cups cold water
• Ice
• Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice, sugar water, and remaining 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
3. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves if desired.

2. Watermelon Mint Cooler

This drink is as refreshing as it sounds, combining the sweet juiciness of watermelon with the cool freshness of mint.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Ice
• Mint sprigs and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher.
2. Add the mint leaves, lime juice, and honey (if using) to the watermelon juice. Stir well.
3. Serve over ice and garnish with mint sprigs and lime wedges if desired.

3. Cucumber Lemon Sparkler

This sparkling drink is incredibly refreshing, perfect for a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 liter sparkling water
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine the cucumber slices, lemon slices, and mint leaves.
2. Pour the sparkling water over the ingredients and stir gently.
3. Serve over ice.

4. Pineapple Coconut Smoothie

This tropical smoothie is like a vacation in a glass. It’s creamy, sweet, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup ice

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine all the ingredients and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

5. Iced Green Tea with Honey and Lemon

Green tea is not only refreshing but also packed with antioxidants. This iced version is a great way to enjoy it on a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 4 green tea bags
• 4 cups boiling water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Ice
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steep the green tea bags in boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.
2. Stir in the honey and lemon juice.
3. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices if desired.

These summer drinks are not only easy to make but also incredibly refreshing. Whether you prefer something fruity, tangy, or tropical, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste. Enjoy these beverages all summer long and stay cool!

i’d like to also write another post for 5 refreshing and easy summer cocktail drink ideas. can you write another post that’s similar to this one, but includes around 5 summer alcoholic drinks ideas?

5 Refreshing and Easy Summer Cocktail Drink Ideas

Summer calls for refreshing cocktails that can beat the heat and add a splash of fun to any gathering. Whether you’re planning a laid-back evening with friends or a festive summer party, these easy-to-make cocktails will keep everyone cool and happy. Here are five of my favorite summer cocktails that are perfect for any sunny occasion.

1. Classic Mojito

The Mojito is a timeless summer cocktail that combines the freshness of mint with the tanginess of lime and the sweetness of rum.

Ingredients:

• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 1/2 ounces white rum
• 1/2 cup club soda

Instructions:

1. Place mint leaves and 1 lime wedge into a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to crush the mint and lime to release the mint oils and lime juice.
2. Add 2 more lime wedges and the sugar, and muddle again to release the lime juice. Do not strain the mixture.
3. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour the rum over the ice, and fill the glass with club soda. Stir, taste, and add more sugar if desired.
4. Garnish with the remaining lime wedge and a sprig of mint.

2. Frozen Strawberry Margarita

This icy, fruity cocktail is a summer favorite, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce triple sec
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup
• 1 cup ice
• Salt for rimming the glass (optional)
• Lime wedge and strawberry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim the edge of a glass with a lime wedge and dip it in salt (if desired).
2. In a blender, combine the strawberries, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, simple syrup, and ice. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into the prepared glass and garnish with a lime wedge and a strawberry.

3. Pina Colada

Bring the tropics to your backyard with a classic Pina Colada. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfectly refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce coconut cream
• 1 ounce heavy cream
• 6 ounces fresh pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• Pineapple slice and maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the rum, coconut cream, heavy cream, pineapple juice, and crushed ice. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a chilled glass and garnish with a pineapple slice and maraschino cherry.

4. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a light and bubbly cocktail that’s perfect for summer afternoons.

Ingredients:

• 3 ounces Aperol
• 3 ounces prosecco
• 1 ounce club soda
• Ice
• Orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the Aperol, prosecco, and club soda.
2. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.

5. Spiked Lemonade

This grown-up version of lemonade is a delightful way to enjoy a classic summer drink with a twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lemonade
• 2 ounces vodka
• Ice
• Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice. Add the lemonade and vodka, and stir well.
2. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.

These summer cocktails are not only easy to make but also incredibly refreshing. Perfect for any summer gathering, they offer a delightful mix of flavors to keep you and your guests cool and happy.

Cheers to a wonderful summer, and as always, lots of love,

-LS

Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner Ideas Using Shredded Chicken

by Lindsay | Jan 10, 2024 | Food

Hi there, busy and hungry people!

Trying to figure out what to make for dinner this week?  I can help!  Let’s talk about a magical ingredient that, in my opinion, should be a staple in every kitchen:  shredded chicken.  Not only is it a time-saving superhero, but it also packs a powerful punch of protein and can be used to prepare a huge variety of nutritious and delicious dishes that your family is sure to love.

Before we get into some of my specific dinner suggestions, let’s briefly address the benefits of shredded chicken and why I personally choose to cook with it so often.  First of all, it’s incredibly versatile; it’s like the culinary chameleon of proteins.  Toss it in tortillas for a taco fiesta, layer it in sandwiches for a lighter option, use it to make a hearty soup or casserole, or sprinkle it on top of salads for some extra flavor.  With shredded chicken at your disposal, you’ll never run out of meal ideas that are diverse and tasty.

Additionally, incorporating shredded chicken as a main ingredient into your cooked-up creations can be a cost effective option.  Since you’re able to prepare the chicken and then use it in a variety of ways, you can still get an assortment of protein-packed dinners every night while saving some money.  Whether you fancy something saucy, spicy, or simple and kid-friendly, shredded chicken will be your trusty sidekick in satisfying your taste buds without turning your freezer into a zoo.

Furthermore, shredded chicken is a total game-changer when it comes to whipping up a fuss-free feast.  It’s not just versatile and yummy, but it’s also super easy to prepare.  And the mouthwatering dishes you can create with it are equally as effortless, making shredded chicken the secret weapon for even the most inexperienced chef (like myself!) to whip up gourmet masterpieces.

But perhaps the most underrated benefit of using shredded chicken is its ability to save precious time during those hectic family dinner nights.  No more waiting for whole chicken breasts or thighs to cook on the range or in the oven after getting home from work, dance lessons, and football practice.  Feel free to use a pre-made rotisserie chicken for the most time savings or simply boil your chicken breasts or thighs on the stove immediately before going on to prepare your dish.  However, doing this step ahead of time is even more ideal if you’re looking for the most efficient and timely weeknight prep times, so feel free to meal prep a batch of shredded chicken let’s say on a Sunday afternoon before the start of your busy week.  Throwing your chicken in a slow cooker for a few hours, if you have the extra time to do so, is especially great when using the breasts to keep them tender and juicy before storing or adding them to each individual recipe during the week.

How to Cook the Chicken

Now that we’ve discussed some benefits, let’s chat about the preparation.  If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, simply start shredding whenever you’re ready!  But if you’re cooking your chicken on the stovetop, whether on the fly or ahead of time, here’s how you can do so:

1. In a large pot, place your chicken and enough chicken broth or water to cover it.  I usually use around 1 lb. of boneless, skinless breasts, but I’m also currently just cooking for myself so it might be better for you to prepare 2 lbs. if you have a larger family or are hoping for even more leftovers.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Cover and cook for around 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.  **Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the inner temperature for doneness (typically around 165 degrees).  You don’t want to cook your chicken too long as overcooking can affect the texture and nobody likes rubbery chicken!
5. Remove your chicken from the pot and shred using two forks.  I usually do this on a cutting board, but you can also use a plate or bowl.
6. Use your chicken to prepare your meal right away or transition it to an airtight container to be stored for later use.

When using a slow cooker, I typically follow the same steps as above, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.  Again, make sure it’s thoroughly cooked before proceeding with any further steps.

Once cooked, your shredded chicken can usually be kept chilled in the fridge for around 3-4 days if packaged properly.  If you don’t plan on using it in that time frame though, consider freezing it so it stays its freshest until you’re ready to use it.

With your pre-cooked and shredded chicken on hand, now you’re ready to whip up a satisfying meal in no time flat.  Plus, you’ll have enough variety to keep your taste buds entertained all week long without sweating over the stove for hours every single evening.  So next time you’re feeling stumped about what to make for dinner, turn to that trusty container of shredded chicken and let your creativity run wild.  And here’s where I can help!

Shredded Chicken Dinner Ideas

Now that we’ve gone over some of the benefits of using shredded chicken, it’s time to get into the good stuff…the recipes!  So whether you’ve got breasts, thighs, or half a rotisserie from last night, grab some forks and start shredding while I share some of my all time favorite shredded chicken dinner ideas that you can keep in your pocket for a busy week.

Chicken Tacos

Heat your chicken however you prefer, either on the stove or in the  microwave.  You can even cook it with one of the taco flavoring packets and in which case you should just follow the directions on the packet.  When your chicken is warm, place the prepared meat inside flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or crunchy taco shells.  Top with your favorite fixings, such as tomatoes, lettuce, shredded cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, guacamole, or salsa.  Get everyone involved and let them make their own taco masterpieces to taste.  Great for Taco Tuesday nights with the whole family!

Chicken Nachos

Using similar ingredients as the chicken tacos, simply change out your tortillas or taco shells for some corn tortilla chips.  Layer the chips on your plate, top with your heated chicken, then pile high all the traditional toppings you wish.  Add some heat with jalapenos, some extra protein with refried or black beans, and sauce it up with some salsa or queso.

Chicken Quesadillas

For my quesadillas, I like to buy the large burrito tortillas, but really any flour tortillas will do.  Spray your heated skillet with a non-stick cooking spray, then place in one tortilla.  Add your chicken and the cheese of your preference.  Top with another flour tortilla.  Once the bottom starts to brown slightly and your cheese starts to melt, flip your quesadilla in the pan.  I usually use a spatula or plate to flip so I can lose as little of the contents as possible.  Once the bottom starts to brown again, it’s ready to transfer your quesadilla to a plate and cut it.  I personally like to serve my quesadillas with lots of smashed avocados or guacamole, but feel free to garnish it as you wish.

Chicken Enchiladas

Use your favorite premade enchilada sauce or make it from scratch, mix it with your chicken, then spoon it into some white corn tortillas.  Place them seam down into a baking dish and top with some additional enchilada sauce and Mexican blend cheese.  Then bake at a 350 degree oven until heated throughout and your cheese starts to melt and bubble, usually about 15-20 minutes.  These are great when served with some refried or charro beans, rice, and a side salad.

Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

This one is super simple, but super tasty.  Simply heat up your chicken, mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce (my personal favorite is Sweet Baby Ray’s), then serve it on a roll or toasted bread.  I tend to put cheese on everything, so I usually top mine with some shredded cheddar, but that’s of course optional.  This is especially great for a summer dinner and pairs well with some potato salad, chips, or cole slaw.

Chicken Parm Sandwiches

This is probably my favorite dish on the list!  I love anything with sauce and cheese though, so this one isn’t hard for me to love.  Similar to the pulled BBQ sandwich, you simply heat your chicken and mix it with your favorite marinara sauce.  Place on top of toasted bread or even garlic bread, then finish it with some mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.  Mmmmmm!

Chicken Spaghetti

If you like the idea of chicken and marinara, but aren’t in the mood for a sandwich, use it to top your favorite pasta.  All you’ll have to do is cook up some spaghetti or ziti noodles, pour on your saucy chicken, then whip up a side salad and some garlic knots and you’re all set with an Italian feast!

Chicken Alfredo

Feeling a little more like fettuccine than spaghetti?  Well nothing goes better with fettuccine than shredded chicken and some alfredo sauce.  You can make your cheesy sauce using your own recipe or just choose to pick up your favorite jarred brand to speed up the process.  Cook your noodles and toss with the chicken and alfredo.  Serve in a similar way as the chicken spaghetti.

Chicken Pizza

Are you a pizza maker?  Break out your Ooni pizza oven and make your dough.  Then top with pizza sauce, shredded chicken, whatever veggies you like, and finish with shredded mozzarella and parmesan.  Quick, easy, and kid approved!

Chicken with Rice and Veggies

This one is great because you can use whatever rice and veggies you prefer and make it slightly different each time.  Prepare some white, brown, or wild rice according to your preference, then mix in your chicken and cooked veggies.  Choose to add anything from carrots and green beans to corn, bell peppers, or broccoli.  Get even a little fancier and add a splash of soy sauce or Mae Ploy to your dish.

Chicken and Gravy Potato Bowls

I love to make some chicken gravy mix (or you can use your favorite jarred brand), then mix it with my shredded chicken and place it on top of creamy mashed potatoes and corn.  Sometimes I also top with some shredded cheese if I’m in the mood (which I usually am!).  Fresh dinner rolls go perfectly with this meal and are great for dunking in any extra gravy.

Chicken Soup

Making a nice chicken soup in the slow cooker is great, but nobody has time for that on a Monday!  In a large pot, I’ll throw in my shredded chicken, some chicken broth, and either cooked rice, egg noodles, or barley.  I also add in my vegetables which usually consist of some combination of canned carrot slices, corn, cubed russet or golden potatoes (peeled or not peeled, your preference), chopped celery, and onion.  I simply let this all simmer until all my veggies are cooked and soft, typically around 30 minutes or so.

As you can see, shredded chicken is truly the unsung hero of family dinners.  Not only is it convenient and cost-effective, but it’s also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes that are both delicious and healthy.  Plus, it’s kid-approved, making mealtime a breeze for busy families.  Whether you’re whipping up tacos or sandwiches, the possibilities for leftover shredded chicken recipes are endless.  So next time you’re at a loss for what to make for dinner, consider keeping some shredded chicken on hand for a stress-free cooking experience that will satisfy the whole family.

Let me know if you try any of these suggestions and share your favorite recipes.  Happy cooking!

-LS