What is the difference between pumpkin and sweet potato pies? At first glance, pumpkin and sweet potato pies look very similar: the fillings share a warm orange hue and both rest in flaky crusts. But beneath that familiar appearance lie notable differences in flavor, texture, preparation, and cultural tradition. Understanding those contrasts helps you choose … Read more

The delightful sequel to Singing in the Rain. Murphy’s Law: If you are out running and a rainstorm strikes, it will happen when you are far from home. Unfortunately, Murphy doesn’t seem to be on my side. I double-checked the forecast: it said “scattered showers beginning at 10AM.” The forecast was wrong for me. It … Read more

If you love thick, tender sugar cookies topped with creamy frosting, these peppermint sugar cookie bars are for you. They’re easy to make, lightly peppermint-flavored, finished with a smooth peppermint frosting and sprinkled with crushed candy canes. Cookie bars are my go-to at the holidays — they’re faster and less fussy than shaping individual cookies … Read more

I love a quick, effective trick, and cleaning makeup brushes with Castile soap is one of my favorites. It’s a simple, time-saving solution that works well whether you’re keeping a strict beauty routine or squeezing one more step into a busy morning. Washing brushes often slips to the bottom of the to-do list. Usually I … Read more

We’ve lived with the pandemic for more than a year, and many of us still wonder about everyday activities like grocery shopping and dining out. Is it safe? Is there a risk of catching COVID-19 from food or surfaces? This week I speak with Dr. Ben Chapman, PhD, a Food Safety Extension Specialist at North … Read more

Nothing beats the flavor of fresh, homemade jam. This simple No Pectin Strawberry Jam uses only three ingredients and yields a bright, fruity spread that easily outshines most store-bought jars. Table of Contents What is the difference between Jam and Jelly? What goes into this Recipe Variations How to Make No Pectin Strawberry Jam Expert … Read more

This protein banana pudding recipe is a quick, gluten-free dessert cup made with Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, vanilla protein powder, fresh bananas, and crushed vanilla wafers. It delivers the familiar creamy banana pudding flavor with soft cookie layers and a thick vanilla filling, but with added protein to make it more satisfying as a snack … Read more

My Mediterranean Sausage Pasta Bake is full of bright, Mediterranean flavours. Sliced Italian-style sausages are browned with red pepper and zucchini, folded into a fragrant garlic-and-herb tomato sauce, placed in a casserole dish, then topped with a creamy Parmesan white sauce and baked until golden. It’s classic comfort food that the whole family will enjoy. … Read more

Slow Cooker black beans are an easy way to prepare dried beans. Learn how to cook black beans in a slow cooker without pre-soaking. This simple, dependable method makes large batches you can freeze and use in recipes later. Slow Cooker Beans Making a large batch of dried black beans at home is cheaper and … Read more

Homemade Chewy Gluten Free Snickerdoodle Cookies are soft, chewy, and finished with a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating. This classic crinkle-top cookie recipe uses simple, affordable pantry ingredients, making it a favorite for home bakers year-round. These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends any season—especially during holiday baking. Full of warm cinnamon flavor with … Read more