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Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

By · PUBLISHED · 22 Comments

Try our copycat recipe if you enjoy the spicy chicken chipotle pasta from The Cheesecake Factory. This homemade pasta dish is loaded with vegetables and coated in a sweet, creamy chipotle sauce. It's sure to become a new family favorite.

A plate of spicy pasta on a black towel.

The post for chipotle chicken pasta was first published in April 2012.  The photos were updated in August 2019 and were republished in March 2025.

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Chipotle Pasta

The Cheesecake Factory has always been our go-to for date nights, and we used to order the same dish every time. One day, my husband and I decided to try something new. After scanning their massive menu, I ordered the spicy chicken chipotle pasta, and it was love at first bite! 

This dish has tender chicken covered in a creamy, smoky chipotle sauce, along with some asparagus and peas. The ingredients are mixed with pasta and then topped with crispy tortilla strips. It is creamy, spicy, and downright delicious!

Since I can’t always eat out (as much as I’d love to), I decided to recreate this restaurant favorite at home. And let me tell you—it’s just as good, if not better!

Why I Love This Copycat Recipe

This chipotle chicken pasta has a variety of flavors and textures. The crunchy veggies, soft pasta, and creamy sauce will have you filling your plate with more.

  • The Perfect Dish – It’s rich and creamy with just the right amount of sweet and spicy flavor.
  • No Reservations Needed – Skip the long wait times and enjoy this Cheesecake Factory favorite anytime.
  • Saves Money – Eating out adds up fast, but you can make a big batch of this for way less!
  • Easy to Customize – Add more veggies, adjust the heat, or use shrimp instead of chicken!
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M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies

By · PUBLISHED · 4 Comments

Our colorful M&M chocolate chip cookies are packed with chocolate and candies. They have golden, crispy edges and thick, soft centers. Best of all, the dough comes together in minutes, and no chill time is needed.

Chocolate chip cookies with M&M candies on a cooling rack.
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Giant M&M Cookies

The past year, I have been in my cookie-baking era. It all started with my thick chocolate chip cookies. Now, I use that base to make fun and exciting flavors each month. Trust me, my neighbors don't mind all the cookies!

One of my favorite candies is the classic M&M's, so I just had to make a giant cookie loaded with them. It’s become a family favorite. I love making these for different holidays and swapping out the candy colors each time.

Why We Love This Recipe

  • This easy recipe is made with simple pantry ingredients.
  • Each cookie is packed with chocolate and candies, making them a festive treat.
  • No chilling time! You can bake this chocolate chip cookie dough as soon as you make it.
  • These treats are perfect for any occasion or holiday. The colorful candies add a bright pop of color to each one.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cookie Bars

By · PUBLISHED · 63 Comments

If you love Reese's, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cookie Bars will be your new favorite dessert. Chewy chocolate cookies layered with creamy peanut butter cheesecake and topped with a chocolate drizzle make these extraordinary.

Two chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars stacked on top of each other.

The post for chocolate peanut butter cheesecake cookie bars was first published in August 2013. It was updated and then republished in March 2025.

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Years ago, my husband and our oldest son ran a Warrior Dash together. It was one of the most fun (although challenging) things I have ever done. 

After walking through mud, climbing walls, and questioning my life choices during the obstacle run, I couldn't wait for a sweet dessert. Thank goodness I had a pan of these Reese's cookie bars waiting in the fridge.

I jazzed up these cheesecake cookie bars with chocolate and peanut butter. They're also loaded with peanut butter cup chunks. I don’t know what it is about Reese’s, but they always seem to sneak into my recipes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

 Whether you're treating yourself after a long day or need a peanut butter and chocolate fix, these bars have you covered!

  • The Best of Both Worlds – These bars mix chewy chocolate cookies with creamy peanut butter cheesecake. Now, you don’t have to choose between two favorite desserts.
  • Loaded with Chocolate and Candy – Peanut butter cups and chocolate chips give these cookie bars a sweet, delicious taste!
  • Easy to Make – No fancy techniques or equipment are needed! Just mix, layer, and bake.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion —These bars are always popular, whether at a party, bake sale, or just a night out for something sweet.

Sara says, "My whole family loves them! Definitely finger-licking worthy 🙂 I will definitely be making them again!!!"

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Fruity Pebbles Crispy Treats

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These Fruity Pebbles Crispy Treats are soft, chewy, and so fun! They’re a great go-to for a quick snack or dessert. With just three simple ingredients, you can make these colorful no bake bars in no time!

A stack of fruity pebbles crispy treats on a white plate.
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Fruity Pebbles Treats

I love regular Rice Krispies treats, but I also enjoy using different kinds of cereal in the same no bake dessert. One of my all-time favorite twists is these cinnamon toast crunch bars. 

This month, while I was at the grocery store, I noticed that Fruity Pebbles were on sale, so naturally, I brought home a box. With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, it's the perfect time for rainbow marshmallow treats!

The bright, colorful cereal adds a fun element to the crispy bars, and who can resist that fruity flavor? Just one whiff of the cereal box takes me back to my childhood.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you're a fan of Fruity Pebbles, these colorful rainbow crispy treats are a must-try!

  • Gooey marshmallow treats. They have the same sweet texture as classic Rice Krispies but with a fun twist.
  • Ready in minutes. This easy snack can be made and cooling on your counter in 30 minutes.
  • Kid-friendly dessert. Kids of all ages will love the bright colors and the fruity twist.
  • Great for birthday parties or St. Patrick's Day. The marshmallow bars are easy to serve from the pan or to share in small party bags.
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Chicken Corn Chowder

By · PUBLISHED · 11 Comments

There’s nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of Chicken Corn Chowder on a chilly day! This creamy, homemade soup comes together in less than 30 minutes and is packed with potatoes, bacon, and sweet corn.

Two bowls of chicken potato corn chowder with toppings.

The post for chicken corn chowder was first published in January 2017. It was updated and republished in February 2025.

Chicken Potato Corn Chowder

There’s nothing quite like a big pot of soup on a cold night. Our kids love canned chunky soups, but I was on a mission to make a homemade version so good they wouldn’t miss the store-bought ones.

I checked the kitchen and found potatoes, frozen corn, and chicken. Just what I needed to make an easy chicken corn chowder. The bubbling broth filled the kitchen with a cozy, comforting smell all afternoon.

The real test was when my kids got home from school. The moment they smelled the chowder, they were ready for dinner. They ate in silence and then went back for seconds. Mission accomplished.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken corn chowder is a family favorite and is part of our regular winter menu. I’m confident you’ll love it as much as we do!

  • Easy One-Pot Meal – Everything gets tossed into one pot, so clean-up is a breeze!
  • Packed with Hearty Ingredients – Tender chicken, sweet corn, and soft potatoes mix for great flavors and textures.
  • Better Than Store-Bought - This homemade version uses fresh ingredients and contains no preservatives. It tastes way better and doesn't have that metallic flavor you get from canned foods.
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Chocolate Banana Muffins

By · PUBLISHED · 66 Comments

These double Chocolate Banana Muffins are the solution for the ripe bananas on your counter. Soft, fluffy, and packed with chocolate flavor, they’re easy to make and loaded with melty chocolate chips in every bite. One batch is never enough!

If you love chocolate and bananas as much as we do, you should also try this chocolate banana bread.

Two stacked muffins with more behind them.

The post for double chocolate banana muffins was first published in November 2013. It was updated and republished in February 2025.

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins

You know that moment when you look at the counter and see brown bananas? It happens every week at our house. But instead of seeing overripe bananas as a problem, I see them as an opportunity to bake something delicious.

Let’s be honest: bananas make everything better. Some of our favorites are banana scones, banana bread made with sour cream, or these decadent chocolate banana muffins.

These moist chocolate muffins are soft, fluffy, and packed with chocolate chips in every bite. We baked two batches in two days because our kids couldn’t get enough.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you need a quick breakfast or a special treat, these double chocolate banana muffins are a great way to use that ripe fruit.

  • Quick and Easy - No complicated steps or fancy ingredients. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
  • Rich and Fudgy - Combining ripe bananas with cocoa powder creates a rich chocolate flavor. The result is muffins that are perfectly moist and incredibly tasty!
  • Uses Overripe Bananas - No more wasting those brown bananas on your counter! This recipe is the perfect use for them.
  • Packed with Chocolate - Melty chocolate chips inside and on top, make every bite extra chocolatey goodness.

Dena says, "Made these muffins last night and they are divine. Kids loved them, I loved them and everyone at work that tried one loved it. Thanks!"

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Homemade Strawberry Pop Tarts

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You can make frosted strawberry pop tarts at home. They’re made with a flaky pie crust, filled with strawberry preserves, and finished with icing and sprinkles. They're perfect for a fun breakfast or a dessert treat!

Homemade pop tarts filled with strawberry preserves in a pile.
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Pop Tarts with Pie Crust

Growing up in the 90s, I remember eating store bought Pop Tarts for breakfast and snacks. There was always something fun about tearing open those foil wrappers and seeing the classic treats.

Did you know you can make a simple version of pop tarts using pie crust? It's a fun and easy way to create a semi-homemade treat quickly. 

I made Nutella pop tarts a few years ago, and our kids loved them! Recently, I decided to try a strawberry version since I had leftover pie crust and preserves in the fridge.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These strawberry pop tarts are a breeze to make and taste better than boxed ones! They’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a fun nostalgic treat anytime.

  • Flaky & Buttery Goodness — Nothing beats a flakey pie crust. It’s crispy, golden, and melts in your mouth.
  • Simple Ingredients — You only need a few essential ingredients to make a treat that tastes bakery-quality.
  • Quick and Easy — Using pre-made ingredients means no extra steps and less stress. Just roll out a pastry crust, add jam, and bake. That’s all there is to it!
  • Fun to Customize — Customize them using different fillings, adding themed sprinkles, or drizzling them with chocolate.
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Jerk Shrimp Tacos

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Jerk Shrimp Tacos are a great way to change your regular taco night. Each tortilla shell is filled with mango salsa, crumbly cheese, and shrimp, creating a sweet, spicy, and flavorful dish.

Three shrimp tacos with toppings in a metal serving dish.

The recipe for Caribbean jerk shrimp tacos was first published in May 2016. It was updated and republished in February 2025.

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Caribbean Shrimp

Shrimp tacos are my go-to order whenever I see them on a restaurant menu. When we lived in Texas, our date nights often meant going to our favorite taco place. I always ordered seafood tacos and green chili pork tacos.

Eating out for tacos can add up, so I made a version of those spicy shrimp tacos at home instead. I like to keep a big bag of frozen shrimp around for grilling or frying. Just make sure you don't forget the shrimp in the freezer while getting dinner ready.

What I love most about this dinner is how quickly everything comes together! You can have delicious shrimp and pineapple mango salsa ready in just a few minutes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe 

Jerk shrimp tacos are a fantastic mix of spicy, sweet, and fresh flavors. They’re perfect for quick weeknight dinners or fun taco nights with friends.

  • Ready in Minutes - Shrimp cooks in about 3 minutes. This makes it one of the fastest and easiest ways to prepare a restaurant-quality meal at home.
  • Sweet and Spicy Flavor - The heat from jerk seasoning pairs well with sweet fruit salsa, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
  • A Taste of the Islands - The juicy shrimp and fresh toppings make you feel like you are at the beach in the Caribbean. No passport is needed.
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Nutella Twists

By · PUBLISHED · 18 Comments

These soft and gooey Nutella Twists are filled with chocolate hazelnut spread and fresh strawberries. You only need three easy store-bought ingredients, and you can make them for breakfast or brunch in no time!

Pastry twists on a white plate with a bowl of frosting.

The recipe for strawberry Nutella twists was first shared in February 2016. The post was updated with new photos and tips and republished in February 2025.

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Strawberry and Nutella

My love affair with Nutella began years ago. It's so creamy, chocolatey, and delicious!

I love using it in pop tarts and no-bake cookies, but my favorite way to enjoy it is still straight from the spoon. Don't judge; I know you do it, too. And if you haven't tried it yet, what are you waiting for?

Recently, I had an extra pizza crust in the fridge, so I spread it with chocolate hazelnut spread and diced strawberries. The result was soft, sweet breadsticks perfect for dipping in a sugar glaze or strawberry chia jam.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These pastries make a delicious breakfast for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, or any other day that ends with a "Y."

  • Easy to Make - All you need are three store-bought ingredients to assemble these sweet treats.
  • Sweet Filling - The chocolate spread and fresh berries pair so well together.
  • Great for Breakfast or Dessert - Add some sweetness to any day with these little bakery-style snacks.
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Raspberry Crumble Cookies

By · PUBLISHED · UPDATED · 2 Comments

Our Raspberry Crumble Cookies are easy to make and taste like the popular Costco treats. The buttery crumb topping and sweet raspberry jam make these cookies melt in your mouth. Add a drizzle of glaze and enjoy with a cup of coffee.

A stack of raspberry cookies cut in half showing the fruit filling.
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Costco Raspberry Cookies

If you’re a fan of Costco, you know how incredible their raspberry crumble cookies are. However, they've been missing from the bakery for quite some time now.

The first time I saw those sweet, buttery cookies, I was amazed that such a simple treat could have a devoted following. Then I tried one, and I understood. These cookies are "melt-in-your-mouth" amazing!

Recently, I decided to make a homemade version since I had a jar of preserves in the fridge. I used the crust from my caramel shortbread to make the cookie base, then added the raspberry jam and crumbly topping.

After one bite, I realized my raspberry crumble cookie recipe was better than the Costco version. Why? Because you can make them in your kitchen in a matter of minutes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

They are a delicious treat to share with friends for the holidays, Valentine's Day, or just a random day that needs a sweet treat.

  • You only need one dough. That's right, you will use the same dough for the buttery shortbread crust and crumbs.
  • No fancy tools are needed. Just grab a hand mixer and a muffin tin, and you will be all set to make these easy treats.
  • The recipe is easy to customize. There's no need to buy another jar of preserves; open your fridge and use whatever you already have. 
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