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Kitchen Sink Bars

Kitchen Sink Bars are a delicious treat loaded with candies, chocolate chips, pretzels, and more. This easy one-bowl recipe comes together in minutes and has a sweet and salty flavor everyone loves.

Three cookie bars stacked on a black pan.
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Kitchen Sink Bars 

Our pantry always has extra candy, chocolate, and pretzels because I bake sweet treats often. One of my favorite ways to use these leftovers is in blonde brownies.

This time, I added peanut butter chips, M&M's, Rolos, and pretzels to the thick and chewy cookie bars. The combination of sweet and salty flavors in a dessert always makes me smile.

If you've never tried blonde brownies, you're missing out. The chewy texture and caramel flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You Will Love This Recipe 

  • No chill time is needed. You can bake the bars immediately after making the dough. Plus, there is no need to scoop any dough for individual cookies!
  • Loaded with mix-ins. Use your leftovers by emptying your cupboards and pantry for this recipe. Have fun combining your favorite ingredients!
  • Sweet and salty flavor. Pretzels and sea salt complement the sweetness of the candy, creating a delicious taste.

Are you looking for more sweet and salty desserts? If so, you'll want to try our Take 5 bars or our salted caramel brownie bites.

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Confetti Cookie Dough Ice Cream

Beat the heat this summer with our easy-to-make Confetti Cookie Dough Ice Cream! This frozen treat is made without an ice cream machine and is loaded with colorful sprinkles and cookie dough bites. It's the perfect way to cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth.

A white bowl filled with no churn confetti ice cream.
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Confetti Ice Cream

One of my favorite kitchen hacks is making ice cream with only four simple ingredients. This base can be used to create any flavor combination you desire.

A few years ago, I added cookie dough bites and sprinkles to our no churn vanilla ice cream. Cookie dough is one of my favorite flavors, and adding sprinkles makes this treat a fun addition to birthday parties and summer picnics.

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that McDonald's had released a new confetti cookie dough McFlurry in 2023. Unfortunately, it was only available in Canada, so I couldn't try it.

If you're sad that this tasty flavor isn't in the US, make my easy confetti ice cream recipe instead. Who needs the Golden Arches when you can make this creamy and delicious treat at home?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Amazing texture. The combination of cream cheese and whipped cream gives it a smooth and creamy texture like soft serve ice cream.
  • No churn recipe. You don't need an ice cream maker to make it. Simply mix all the ingredients in a bowl and freeze.
  • Loaded with mix-ins. Cookie dough pieces and colorful sprinkles make the creamy dessert festive and perfect for summer.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Say hello to dessert paradise with our Strawberry Cheesecake Bars! Creamy cheesecake, strawberry crisp, and a buttery cookie crust make them the ultimate dessert for every occasion.

Three strawberry bars stacked on top of each other.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Who doesn't love cheesecake? After all, it is a dreamy and decadent dessert. However, the downside is that preparing, baking, and chilling takes a lot of time.

That's why I prefer making cheesecake bars. They are easy to make and offer endless possibilities for flavors. A few of our favorites are rainbow, chocolate, and lemon.

I absolutely love strawberries, especially during the spring season. This simple bar recipe combines cream cheese and strawberry pie filling in one pan. 

We made these strawberry crumble bars for our Easter dinner, and they were a huge hit. Everyone agrees that this cream cheese dessert with the strawberry topping and crunchy oatmeal crumble is a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Recipe 

Thanks to the easy-to-make, simple layers, this dessert tastes like a traditional cheesecake without all the effort. Trust me, you will fall head over heels for this strawberry dessert!

  • Bars have a shorter baking time compared to a full-size cheesecake.
  • They look fancy, but they are actually easy to make.
  • The best thing is that this recipe does NOT need special pans, tools, or water baths.
  • Easy cream cheese bars are the perfect dessert for parties, picnics, and potlucks.
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Pineapple Mango Salsa

Transform your dinner creations with our refreshing Pineapple Mango Salsa recipe! The tropical taste of fresh pineapple, ripe mango, and zesty lime pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, seafood, and more.

Fresh fruit salsa being served on a spoon.
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Pineapple Mango Salsa

During the summer, we love to host backyard barbecues with our family and friends. We often grill hot dogs, chicken, fish, and burgers and serve a variety of condiments and sides to complement the dishes.

I love making homemade salsa. Once you try it, you'll never want to return to the store-bought versions. It's surprisingly easy to make, and you can control each ingredient. The fresh flavors and colors in our traditional salsa and pineapple peach salsa enhance many of our meals.

A few years ago, we made pineapple mango salsa. We served it with hot dogs and Hawaiian buns for our 4th of July celebrations. The topping has become a new summer staple in our home, replacing traditional options like ketchup and mustard.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This spicy mango salsa recipe is simply irresistible! It has become one of our favorite dishes since we shared it at a backyard picnic. You won't regret giving it a try! It is the perfect addition to any party or gathering!

  • So easy to make. All you need is a large bowl and a handful of colorful ingredients. It's incredibly easy to make and requires no special equipment!
  • Delicious tropical flavors. The fresh flavors of the sweet fruit make this easy salsa a hit during the summer months.
  • Versatile condiment. While my favorite way to enjoy this spicy fruit is on hot dogs, there are many different ways to serve it! Try it on tacos, chicken breast, pork chops, rice bowls, or as a summer side dish with tortilla chips.
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Banana Pudding Popcorn

Enjoy a delicious twist on a classic dessert with this easy Banana Popcorn recipe. This snack mix has an irresistible banana pudding flavor and is loaded with sweet vanilla cookies.

Two bowls filled with banana popcorn.
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Banana Pudding Popcorn

I have been making unique chocolate-covered popcorn for years, and it's become a monthly tradition. Popcorn can be transformed into various flavors, such as Nutella, Neapolitan, Key Lime, and many more.

My husband loves banana pudding. So, I decided to try something new by incorporating those flavors into a batch of crunchy popcorn.

Did you know that popcorn could taste like pudding? It might sound surprising, but it's true! Mixing white chocolate, instant pudding, Nilla wafers, and dried bananas creates a snack mix that tastes like the classic pudding dessert.

Fun Fact: I actually created this banana popcorn flavor in 2012 before it became popular. Today, quite a few shops sell this unique flavor, but I like to think I was the first to come up with it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This sweet snack will take your movie nights to the next level of snacking. Everyone will go bananas over this fun treat, so I suggest making a double batch.

  • Easy to make. Despite its gourmet appearance, this popcorn recipe is surprisingly easy to make. All you need are a few simple ingredients plus 5 minutes.
  • Fun flavor combo. This snack combines the sweetness of banana pudding with salty, crunchy popcorn.
  • Great for sharing. Serve it in a bowl or hand it out in small bags. It doesn't matter how you serve it because everyone will want more.
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Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies

Our Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies are loaded with chocolate chips, peanuts, and Reese's Pieces. These cookies stay soft and chewy for days thanks to a box of instant pudding mix. Enjoy them with a glass of milk for the perfect snack.

Are you looking for more soft-batch cookies? Make these Reese's peanut butter cookies for the peanut butter lover in your life, and watch their eyes light up with joy.

Stacked cookies with candies on a board.

This recipe for peanut butter pudding cookies was first published in April 2012. It was updated with new pictures and tips, then republished in April 2024.

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Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies

We've made many treats over the years, but these OG peanut butter pudding cookies are still among the most popular. They have received thousands of great reviews.

Peanut butter cookies are great on their own, but adding a secret ingredient to the dough makes them even better. A dry pudding mix keeps the treats soft and chewy for days. Plus, it's an easy way to add extra flavor with one additional ingredient.

I love baking these soft peanut butter cookies for get-togethers, picnics, or just a cozy night in. They disappear in a hurry every single time!

Why You Will Love These Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies

  • Easy to make. The cookie dough comes together in minutes with just one bowl.
  • No chilling is needed! You can bake the dough as soon as you make it.
  • Loaded with chocolate and candy. Adding chocolate chips and Reese's Pieces to the cookie dough packs each bite with goodness.

I've made these cookies at least 5x since finding this recipe. These cookies are AMAZING! Everyone that tries them raves about how good they are!

- Darlene

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Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake

This Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is easy to make with a cake mix and tastes delicious. The sweet, lemony flavor and moist texture will brighten up your day.

A slice of lemon bundt cake with lemon glaze on a white plate.
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Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake

For years, I avoided lemon desserts because sour things made me shiver. Then I tried lemon bars and lemon loaf and realized that I like lemon...as long as sugar is involved.

I'm excited about this time of year because citrus fruits are in season again. Bring on more lemon curd and lemon cheesecake bars. Am I right?

Recently, I found a lemon cake mix hidden on a pantry shelf and decided to bake a cake. Bundt cakes are my favorite type because they're easy to make and have a fun shape.

Why This Lemon Bundt Cake With Cake Mix Works

  • Using a box mix and instant pudding mix simplifies this recipe and gives the cake a great taste and color.
  • Thanks to a triple dose of lemon, it is bursting with citrus flavor. It has the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
  • This simple dessert is perfect for spring and summer parties. It will impress everyone at barbecues, potlucks, and other special events.
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Bacon Egg Tacos

Bacon and Egg Tacos are an easy and delicious way to switch up your morning routine. Warm tortillas filled with scrambled eggs and your favorite toppings make an "eggcellent" breakfast for taco lovers.

A plate filled with egg tacos with bacon and tomatoes.
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Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. However, some people, like myself, don't always have the time or motivation to prepare it in the mornings. Luckily, you can prepare this simple recipe anytime during the day.

My husband and I enjoy eating eggs. So I prepare egg muffins or a broccoli egg bake ahead of time to have a hearty protein on busy mornings. However, this week, I was craving egg tacos. 

We had a pack of small tortillas in the pantry that I bought for banana Nutella quesadillas. However, I realized they were also the perfect size for breakfast tacos!

Why You'll Love This Breakfast Taco Recipe

Whether you're making scrambled egg tacos for breakfast or a quick meal, everyone will enjoy making their own creation.

  • Fun to customize. Everyone creates a taco just the way they like it. Some pile on the toppings sky-high, while others keep it simple. Hey, there's no wrong way to taco! 
  • Light and healthy. These easy breakfast tacos are packed with protein from eggs and vitamins from fresh vegetables. They are filling without being too heavy.
  • Meal prep is easy. Prepare the scrambled eggs and toppings the night before, store them in the fridge, and reheat them in the microwave the next day.

Key Ingredients

Here are the basic ingredients for our egg taco recipe. Feel free to substitute or add any additional toppings you like! 

A black board with ingredients needed to make breakfast tacos.
  • Eggs -  6 large eggs make six tacos.
  • Butter - Melted butter adds a great flavor to the scrambled eggs, but you can substitute olive or avocado oil.
  • Cheese - You can use any shredded cheese in these delicious breakfast tacos.
  • Bacon - Cook the bacon in advance and chop it into bite-sized pieces. For a quicker option, you can buy pre-cooked bacon.
  • Flour Tortillas - Small, 4-inch street tortillas work great for breakfast tacos, but this recipe also works with corn tortillas.
  • Toppings - We like tomatoes, avocados, and cilantro, but you can use any topping or garnish you prefer.

How to Make Breakfast Tacos

Start by scrambling eggs, then mix in crispy bacon and cheese. Because everything's better with bacon and cheese, right?

Bacon and egg tacos with toppings on a black tray.
  1. Melt the butter or hot oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Whisk the eggs with some water and pour into the hot pan.
  2. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and gently stir the eggs until they solidify, then remove them from the heat.
  3. Stir shredded cheese and crumbled crispy bacon into the soft scrambled eggs. Cover and let the cheese melt, so it holds everything together.
  4. Top each tortilla with a spoonful of the egg mixture, then load on your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.

BruCrew Tip: Cutting carbs? Skip the flour shell and make a scrambled egg bowl. It tastes delicious either way! 

Toppings For Egg Tacos

Now, let's talk toppings - the more, the merrier! Set out bowls and let everyone add their favorites.

  • Salsa: We always use our homemade salsa, but a jarred salsa or salsa verde from the store is great, too.
  • Ripe Avocado: While fresh chunks or slices are outstanding, try guacamole for more flavor and texture.
  • Greek Yogurt: The creamy sauce cools things down. Sour cream is a good option, too.
  • Hot Sauce: Add a spicy flair to eggs.
  • Pico De Gallo: Use store-bought to keep things quick.
  • Cheese: For an authentic Tex-Mex breakfast, try using cotija cheese or queso fresco. Although any shredded variety will taste amazing.
A white plate with three breakfast tacos on it.

Storage Recommendations

In the Refrigerator: Store the eggs and toppings in separate containers in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat the eggs and assemble the tacos when ready.

To Reheat: Place the eggs on a plate and microwave for 45-60 seconds or until hot. Spoon them into a warm tortilla, add toppings, and enjoy. 

Tips and Tricks

  • Add water. My secret to making light and fluffy eggs is adding water before scrambling them in butter. 
  • Prep everything in advance. For a quick weekday breakfast, prep all the taco ingredients on the weekend, then reheat them daily!
  • First, warm the tortillas. I microwave mine for 10-15 seconds before adding the fluffy eggs. You can also heat them on the stovetop or grill.
  • Prevent eggs from sticking. Use a preheated, nonstick skillet. Cook on medium or medium-low heat with butter or olive oil, gently stirring with a rubber spatula.
  • Experiment with seasonings. Add a pinch of cumin, paprika, or chili powder to the eggs for extra flavor.
Three egg tacos with toppings on a black board.

Variations

  • Use hard taco shells. I'm a soft tortilla gal, but if hard shells are your thing, go for it!
  • Try a different meat. Use breakfast sausage, ham, steak, or even pulled pork.
  • Go meatless. Use black beans or refried beans for plant-based protein and extra fiber.
  • Load up on fresh veggies. Add roasted red bell peppers, spinach, sliced red onions, or sweet potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
  • Use egg whites. Use liquid egg whites for a high protein, lower fat breakfast option.
A plate filled with egg tacos with bacon and tomatoes.

More Egg Breakfast Ideas

Do you love a recipe you tried from Inside BruCrew Life? 

Please leave a 5-star ⭐️ rating and a review in the comments section below. 

Recipe

A white plate with three breakfast tacos on it.

Egg Tacos

Yield: 6 tacos
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Bacon and Egg Tacos are an easy and delicious way to switch up your morning routine. Warm tortillas filled with scrambled eggs and your favorite toppings make an "eggcellent" breakfast for taco lovers.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 6 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¾ cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
  • ½ cup chopped cooked bacon
  • 1 green onion, diced
  • ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • 6 - 4 inch flour tortillas, warmed

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Whisk together the eggs and water. Pour into prepared pan and fry eggs until set, stirring often. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in the cheese and bacon. Cover until melted.
  4. Top each tortilla with eggs, onion, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

Tips and Tricks

  • Add water. My secret to making light and fluffy eggs is adding water before scrambling them in butter. 
  • Prep everything in advance. For a quick weekday breakfast, prep all the taco ingredients on the weekend, then reheat them daily!
  • First, warm the tortillas. I microwave mine for 10-15 seconds before adding the fluffy eggs. You can also heat them on the stovetop or grill.
  • Experiment with seasonings. Add a pinch of cumin, paprika, or chili powder to the eggs for extra flavor.

Variations

  • Use hard taco shells. I'm a soft tortilla gal, but if hard shells are your thing, go for it!
  • Try a different meat. Use breakfast sausage, ham, steak, or even pulled pork.
  • Go meatless. Use black beans or refried beans for plant-based protein and extra fiber.
  • Load up on fresh veggies. Add roasted red bell peppers, spinach, sliced red onions, or sweet potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
  • Use egg whites. Use liquid egg whites for a high protein, lower fat breakfast option.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 412Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 216mgSodium: 609mgCarbohydrates: 32gFiber: 4gSugar: 1gProtein: 18g

Nutrition facts are an estimate and are not guaranteed to be accurate. If you need special diet advice, please see a registered dietician.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

© Jocelyn @ Inside BruCrew Life
Cuisine: American / Category: Eggs

This post was first published in February 2017. It was updated and then republished in April 2024.

Sausage Stuffed Shells

These Sausage Stuffed Shells are cozy, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Filled with a creamy cheese sauce and sausage, they're the ultimate comfort food. Trust me, you'll want to make them for dinner every week.

A spoon lifting a cheesy sausage shell out of a pan.
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Sausage Stuffed Shells

I love having pasta for dinner, especially when it's loaded with gooey cheese. Stuffed pasta dishes always bring a huge smile to my face, and the more cheese, the merrier!

Our children enjoy these stuffed shells with meat, so I created a new stuffed pasta with Alfredo sauce for dinner this week.

These shells are stuffed with sausage and cheese and then topped with a creamy white sauce. They got two thumbs up all around our dinner table!

Why You'll Love Stuffed Shells with Alfredo Sauce

  • Cheesy pasta is a classic comfort food. This easy dish will make your entire family feel warm and cozy.
  • You can make it ahead of time. Prepare the dish the day before, then pop it in the oven. It's an easy meal for a busy weeknight.
  • The meal is freezer-friendly. It can be frozen, making it a perfect meal for busy days or for sharing with loved ones.
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Almond Joy Energy Bites

Almond Joy Bites are a quick and delicious treat made with almond butter, oats, and coconut. These chewy protein balls are perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a late-night snack.

If you like chocolate and coconut, then you'll love this healthier Almond Joy hot chocolate!

A bowl filled with chocolate coconut granola bites.
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Almond Joy Energy Bites

I always crave something sweet in the afternoons. Usually, I can control my craving for cookies by drinking iced coffee or an iced matcha latte.

But sometimes, I cannot resist the temptation to snack on a sweet treat. Those days, I make peanut butter granola balls or healthy brownie bites.

This week, I changed the peanut butter bites by replacing some oats with shredded coconut and using almond butter instead of peanut butter. I love that these protein bites taste like dessert, but they are a healthy chocolate snack. 

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • It's ready in 10 minutes. Mix the ingredients in a large bowl and then roll them into balls.
  • This is a healthier alternative. These Almond Joy Bites have the same flavor as an Almond Joy bar but without refined sugar. They are one of my favorite ways to enjoy a healthy candy bar.
  • Great on-the-go snack. These no-bake energy bites are perfect for busy families. Just pop a few in a plastic bag or Tupperware container to bring with you!
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