Blog - Inside BruCrew Life

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are made without yeast, filled with delicious chocolate sugar, and topped with a swirl of sweet cream cheese frosting. They’re soft, gooey, and ready to turn an ordinary morning into something extraordinary.

A melty and gooey chocolate cinnamon roll with frosting on a white plate.

The recipe for chocolate cinnamon rolls was first published in February 2014. The photos and recipe notes were updated and republished in May 2025.

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Chocolate Sweet Rolls

Sometimes, I don’t have the time or patience to wait for the dough in traditional cinnamon rolls to rise and double in size. So, a few years ago, I started making quick cinnamon rolls without any yeast.

This time, I decided to change things up with a chocolate twist. I topped the first batch of chocolate chip cinnamon rolls with a delicious chocolate glaze. Then it hit me! Why not add cocoa powder directly into the dough?

When they came out of the oven, they were incredibly chocolatey and gooey. The chocolate dough is rich with butter, melted chocolate, and sugar. What's not to love?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The best part is there’s no yeast, so you don’t have to wait for the dough to rise.
You can have these ready in under an hour, making them perfect for when you want something sweet without the wait.
And of course, a swirl of sweet and creamy cream cheese frosting will make you smile.
Plus, it’s chocolate for breakfast. Do you really need another reason?

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Easy Lemon Curd

Add a burst of citrus to your desserts with this easy lemon curd recipe. It takes just 15 minutes to make and has the most dreamy texture. Spoon it over angel food cake, layer it in trifles, or use it to fill buttery tart shells for a fresh and easy dessert.

If you love lemon desserts, try these easy lemon bars and lemon coconut cupcakes.

A spoon lifting lemon curd out of a clear jar.

This post on lemon curd was first published in April 2021 and then updated and republished in May 2025.

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Lemon Curd with Whole Eggs

I used to think making lemon curd was way too complicated. For years, I would always buy it from the store.

Making it yourself is surprisingly easy and consistently turns out perfectly. Plus, it tastes so much better than anything you’ll find in a store-bought jar.

My biggest dilemma with making homemade lemon curd was that most recipes I found only used egg yolks. Since I didn't want leftover egg whites, I developed a lemon curd recipe using whole eggs.

Another difference in my recipe is that I add the butter and melt it with the sugar at the beginning. It results in a smooth, sweet, and tart lemon curd.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

No preservatives or fillers here! It’s made with simple, real ingredients like eggs, sugar, butter, and fresh lemon juice.
The texture is super silky smooth. Once it cools, the curd is rich and buttery. It's perfect for spreading, filling, or just eating right from the jar.
It may seem fancy, but it’s actually quite easy to make. It looks and tastes like something from a bakery, yet you can make it in just about 15 minutes on the stovetop.
There are so many ways to use it! It’s great for filling cupcakes, topping scones or pancakes, swirling into yogurt, or layering in parfaits and tarts.

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Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

If you enjoy sweet and salty treats, you'll love these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies! They're rich and fudgy and have a hidden caramel center. The best part is that they start with brownie mix, making them easy to make when a chocolate craving strikes!

A stack of four caramel brownies cookies with the top one missing a bite.

These salted caramel brownie cookies were first published in August 2014. The photos and text were updated and republished in May 2025.

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Caramel Brownie Cookies

Salted caramel is a flavor I can't resist. There's just something about the combination of sweet and salty, and it's even more delicious when you add some rich, fudgy chocolate.

Over the years, I have used it in so many recipes. Two of my favorites are these salted caramel brownie cups and salted caramel bundt cake.

Naturally, I also had to find a way to turn it into a cookie. I decided to jazz up brownie mix cookies by topping them with caramel candy bars and sea salt. Combining two desserts into one is always a winning strategy in my dessert book!

The result was a delicious batch of caramel brownie cookies that were easy to make. And they tasted like something from a fancy bakery.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These salted caramel brownie mix cookies are a quick and easy dessert for a get-together or when you want a sweet treat. They’re soft and chewy, and the gooey caramel in every bite is delicious.

Fudgy texture: They have that rich, chewy center that tastes just like a brownie in cookie form.
Sweet meets salty: The combination of gooey caramel, sea salt, and rich chocolate is absolutely dreamy in every bite.
Easy to make: Brownie mix to the rescue! You’ll have a batch in the oven in no time.
Hello, gooey centers: A Dove candy bar gives each one a pocket of caramel goodness.

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Lemon Supreme Pie

This bright and beautiful Lemon Supreme Pie is the perfect way to welcome warmer weather. A creamy base, tart lemon filling, and buttery crust make it a delicious choice for spring or summer celebrations.

If you love lemon desserts, check out our lemon bars and our lemon loaf.

A slice of layered lemon supreme pie on a white plate.

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If sunshine had a flavor, I think it would taste like this lemon supreme pie. Each bite is bright, creamy, and filled with citrusy goodness!

I still remember my first slice of this pie at Baker’s Square in Indiana when my husband and I were dating. At the time, I wasn’t a big fan of lemon desserts, but one bite of that dreamy pie hooked me for life.

Years later, I decided to recreate that sweet-tart magic at home. I used my favorite homemade lemon pie filling, which took it to a whole new level. It's now a family favorite that we enjoy all year round.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Pie

The creamy and sweet cream cheese blends just right with the tangy lemon flavor.
A buttery, flaky pie crust gives a crisp contrast to the creamy, dreamy layers.
The lemon filling has that perfect mix of tart and sweet flavors. It's bright and citrusy, making you want to go back for another bite every time!
This dessert is so light and refreshing. It's the perfect treat for spring gatherings, Mother's Day brunches, or summer picnics.

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Caramelized Bananas

With just three simple ingredients, you can make sweet caramelized bananas. This simple and delicious recipe is the easiest way to take your breakfast or dessert to the next level.

Caramelized Bananas Recipe

Every week, I buy a bunch of slightly green bananas. I enjoy eating them when they still have a slight crunch. Then, I wait for them to ripen so I can use them to make banana scones or banana bread muffins.

Recently, I discovered a new way to enjoy fresh bananas before they get brown spots. We went out for brunch, and I ordered banana foster pancakes. They came with the most amazing brown sugar bananas on top.

Anything that is pan-fried in butter and sugar is delicious, so I knew I had to try making this at home. The following week, I had ripe bananas and discovered that making this gooey topping is incredibly easy. Trust me, you have to try this simple recipe!

It's an excellent topping for banana pancakes, waffles, French toast, yogurt, or vanilla ice cream. You can also dig in with a spoon like I did! There's no judgment here!

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Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is an easy dinner that is light, fresh, and full of flavor. The classic combo of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil always hits the spot! Whether you’re heading to a barbecue or need a quick lunch, this pasta salad will disappear every time.

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Pasta Salad with Mozzarella

Some days call for easy recipes that I can throw together in a matter of minutes. And when the weather is warm (hello, Florida sunshine!), cold pasta salad is a go-to around here.

This Caprese salad is one of my favorite dishes. It's loaded with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette.

I love how fast this pasta salad comes together. While the noodles are cooking, I chop the ingredients and whisk the dressing. Then, I give it a quick toss, and it’s ready to go. Instant happiness in a bowl!

This time of year, there are many picnics, BBQs, and potlucks where you need a quick dish to share. You can also add grilled chicken to make it a complete meal. This salad is incredibly versatile and the perfect summer dish that everyone will enjoy.

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Oreo Banana Bread

Oreo Banana Bread takes classic banana bread to the next level! It’s packed with cookies and topped with frosting for an extra dose of goodness. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up!

This cookies and cream banana bread was first published in April 2016. It was updated and republished in April 2025.

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Oreo Bread

This week, I had fun in the kitchen. We had ripe bananas on the counter and Oreos in the pantry. So, I jazzed up my mocha banana bread with cookies to create Oreo banana bread. Best. Decision. Ever.

You should have seen the look on our kids' faces when they walked in and saw this treat sitting on the counter. Forget waiting for breakfast; everyone grabbed a slice immediately!

I mean, come on! Chocolate banana bread loaded with Oreo chunks and topped with frosting? You would want it, too! Just grab a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee, because this bread is rich and fudgy.

Don't want the bananas or Oreos? You might want to try out these Starbuck's copycat marble loaf and lemon loaf recipes instead!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfect Excuse to Use Up Ripe Bananas. Tired of the same sour cream banana bread? This fun cookies-and-cream version is a delicious way to use that brown fruit on the counter!
Cookies for Breakfast. Who can resist a breakfast that includes Oreos? It feels like a guilty pleasure, but with bananas, so it’s practically healthy, right?
Extra Rich and Chocolatey. The chocolate banana bread is already moist and fudgy, but adding chunks of Oreo cookies takes it over the top!
Kid (and Adult) Approved. This bread always disappears in a hurry! It’s always a hit for after-school snacks, late-night munchies, or brunch hangouts.

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POG Juice

Learn how to make Disney’s famous POG juice at home! This tropical fruit juice blend combines passion fruit, orange, and guava into a refreshing drink that the whole family will love. Perfect for Disney fans, summer brunches, or Hawaiian-themed parties!

Two glasses filled with juice and garnished with an orange slice.

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Disney Pog Juice

After years of visiting Disney, I finally tried POG juice. On our most recent trip, we had dinner at ‘Ohana, and our server brought me a glass. It was love at first sip!

The next morning, we enjoyed more POG juice at the Boma breakfast buffet. It was one of those little details that made my birthday trip extra special.

When we got home, I had to recreate that refreshing drink. Disney has provided a recipe that's easy to follow: simply mix equal parts of three fruit juices.

Although when I made it at home, I noticed mine was a little pinker and sweeter, which I liked. The versions we tried at Disney tasted more like orange juice.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you want to make a Disney-themed breakfast or need a quick drink to brighten your day, this POG juice recipe is perfect.

Bright tropical flavors - It tastes like vacation in a glass!
Perfect for all ages - The vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a favorite with kids and adults.
Works for any occasion - Serve it at brunch with Mickey waffles, or pour it over ice by the pool. You can also use it as a base for a cocktail or mimosa.

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Cheesecake Bars

Calling all cheesecake lovers! These easy cheesecake bars have a smooth layer of chocolate ganache that takes them to the next level. They're rich, creamy, and perfect for when you want a simple dessert that still feels a little fancy.

A square of cheesecake on a plate topped with chocolate and a raspberry.

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Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Who doesn't love cheesecake? It's creamy and decadent, but making a full-size cheesecake can be a hassle due to all the steps required. Sometimes, I just don't have the time for all that!

That’s where cheesecake bars come to my rescue! This easy dessert gives you all the flavor and texture of classic cheesecake without the fuss. Just mix, pour, bake, and chill. Plus, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or those moments when you're craving something sweet and creamy.

You can easily change the flavors to fit your mood or the season. Rainbow bars are great for birthdays, chocolate cheesecake bars are a special treat, and lemon cheesecake bars are perfect for spring!

So the next time you need a quick and easy dessert, skip the springform pan and make a batch of cheesecake bars. Your sweet tooth will thank you!

Why You'll Love 9x13 Cheesecake Bars

This recipe bakes so much faster than a traditional cheesecake, which is a big win when you're short on time.
They look fancy enough for a party, but they’re actually super simple to make.
You are going to love making this easy recipe without a special springform pan. All you need are basic ingredients and a 9x13 baking dish.
These bars are a go-to for potlucks and parties. Or when you need a rich and creamy dessert!

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Carrot Bundt Cake

This easy Carrot Bundt Cake is packed with warm spices, shredded carrots, and crunchy pecans. Decorated with cream cheese frosting, it's the perfect cake for holiday dinners or whenever you need a sweet and cozy dessert!

This carrot bundt cake was first shared in March 2017. The post was updated and republished in April 2025.

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Carrot Cake Bundt Cake

I love carrot cake, but I don't make it very often because I am the only one in our house who eats it. Most of the time, I order it when we go out to eat.

With spring in the air and Easter approaching, I can't stop thinking about this carrot cake loaf. I was planning to make it and share some with friends, but then I wondered how it would turn out as a bundt cake. Spoiler alert: It turned out fantastic!

I doubled the batter and added pecans and raisins for flavor and texture. And yes, I know raisins are controversial, but I love the chewiness they add to oatmeal raisin cookies and loaded carrot cake. If you’re not a fan, leave them out.

Of course, no bundt cake is complete without frosting. You can drizzle thick lines across the top or spread it all over the sides. I’ve done both, and honestly, it’s delicious either way.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Moist & Flavorful: The shredded carrots keep the cake moist, and the warm spices give it that classic cozy flavor.
Great Texture: The combo of moist cake, crunchy pecans, and chewy raisins gives every bite something extra.
Beautiful Presentation: Bundt cakes look impressive with minimal effort. Just drizzle some frosting on top, and it’s party-ready!
Perfect for Spring and Easter: This seasonal favorite is just right for spring celebrations and holiday tables.

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