# Amy Kay's Kitchen > Faith, Family & Good food ## Posts - [New England Bar Pizza](https://amykayskitchen.com/new-england-bar-pizza/): This pizza is fantastic! It has quickly become the favorite in our home. That says a lot since I make a lot of pizza – outdoor pizza oven included. The chewy crisp texture and lacy edges are delicious! I doubted this recipe at first because the 9 inch cake pans used. I thought it was too small or wouldn’t produce a good crust. But I was wrong and so glad I tried it. Now I have stocked up these cake pans so that I can make several at once (they are cheaper at my local Walmart). The quick dough for […] - [M&M Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/mm-cookies/): These M&M cookies are absolutely delicious and easy to make! They are soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges. Best of all no waiting for butter to soften! - [Caramel Brownies](https://amykayskitchen.com/caramel-brownies/):   I really don’t think I have to say too much about these beautiful brownies. I think a picture is worth a thousand words. But these are amazing- super fudgy chocolatey brownies oozing with a delicious caramel layer. To top it off, brownies are one of the easiest desserts to make homemade- often just one pan. These take a little more because the added delightfulness of the caramel and nuts, but trust me the extra work is well worth it.   The original recipe called for pecans but, to my dismay, I had none. So I used slivered almonds and […] - [Everything topping](https://amykayskitchen.com/everything-topping/): It’s been a long but fun summer, but it  has been back to homeschooling and readjusting to a schedule around here. I’m actually finding comfort in the routine and truly love being a teacher to my kids. I feel like I’m cheating somehow by being able to be their teacher and have them all day. Granted it has it’s tough moments and sometimes I just want to be all alone with a hot cup of coffee and a warm piece of bread and butter topped with this stuff. But God is good and he has truly given me the grace […] - [French Bread](https://amykayskitchen.com/french-bread/): I have been sitting on this recipe for a while and have really wanted to share, but its just been so busy with my new little guy around. This is one of my favorite breads to make. Its quick and easy enough to make even with a fussy new baby and homeschooling my other 4 kids. Plus, the bread is delicious and my family loves it. It rivals some of the Italian and French bread I used to buy at my local bakery. It is also a bread that I can eat, since my little one has decided to have […] - [My Favorite Pizza Dough (make ahead or on same day)](https://amykayskitchen.com/my-favorite-pizza-dough-make-ahead-or-on-same-day/): Back from another long blogging break- I haven’t stopped cooking and have so many recipes I would love to share but life has taken some interesting, yet exciting, turns.  I am homeschooling my 4 children this year and that has been quite the adventure to figure things out and adjust to a new routine. And, surprise, I am 32 weeks along with my 5th child, another beautiful little boy, so us girls are officially out numbered!  Being “a bit” older this time around has been a challenge and the pregnancy has not been the smoothest, so I have slowed down on […] - [Blueberry Buckle](https://amykayskitchen.com/blueberry-buckle/): Here is the perfect summer recipe to use the seasons delicious blueberries.  This blueberry buckle is super moist and bursting with fresh blueberries, topped with an amazing crunchy crumb topping and a lemon glaze. You really can’t go wrong. I would probably call it a blueberry coffee cake because it goes perfectly with a cup of coffee, but who am I kidding, it goes perfectly anytime of day! So I left the name alone.  It kind of reminds me of a blueberry muffin but made better with the topping.    The only changes I made to this was to add […] - [Easy Skillet Cheeseburger Macaroni](https://amykayskitchen.com/skilletcheeseburgermacaroni/): Lately I have been on the hunt to find great quick, easy dinner recipes. I don’t work a lot outside the home, so I tend to make more time consuming meals. But boy have I been tired and busy lately, so I thought it was good time to find great recipes that get dinner on the table quickly.  I know there are so many working woman out there that have to come home after a long day at work, needing to feed a hungry family, and don’t have time to prep a meal during the day. So I figured I […] - [English Chocolate Crisps](https://amykayskitchen.com/english-chocolate-crisps/):  This recipe was a great find!! These chocolate crisps take only a few minutes to make and are absolutely delicious. They are super crispy and chocolatey and the addition of either dried cranberries, cherries or even toffee bits makes them even better. My favorite way is with either the dried cranberries or cherries because it adds a tangy sweetness that pairs so well with the chocolate.  The toffee bits are great for all those toffee lovers out there too.  Don’t be put off by the corn flakes- you really do not taste them- they just add a delightful crisp texture […] - [Avocado with Eggs and Browned Butter](https://amykayskitchen.com/avocado-with-eggs-and-browned-butter/):  Yay!! I am finally coming back from quite a long break with a super simple yet delicious recipe. Once again I have been battling digestive issues, so needless to say I have not been up to cooking, taking pictures, or honestly much else. It has been difficult to get through a day at times and I probably wouldn’t have if it weren’t for some amazing friends that the Lord has blessed me with. This avocado and egg recipe has been something that I have been able to eat through everything and absolutely love. As I mentioned in the post for […] - [My favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/my-favorite-chocolate-chip-cookies/): It’s National Chocolate Chip Cookie Week, so I figured I would share my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe. I actually have 2 or 3 recipes I use and this is the more “complicated” recipe, at least as far as a cookie goes. It includes a couple different kinds of flour, which is another step, but  the hardest part is that it has to rest in the fridge for at least 24 hours. And its hard not to keep sneaking a little bite here and there 🙂 !  But the rest in the fridge really does make a difference. I have […] - [Muddy Buddy Popcorn (Chocolate Peanut Butter Popcorn)](https://amykayskitchen.com/muddy-buddy-popcorn-chocolate-peanut-butter-popcorn/): This muddy buddy popcorn is Amazing!!! Seriously take the 15 minutes it takes to make and try it, but beware you may be tempted to eat it all. I have made more batches than I can count since finding this recipe in the book Party Popcorn. I even made several batches and bagged  them up in cute valentines bags for my kids to give away on Valentine’s Day.  My kids adore this stuff- that is when they can keep it from me lol 🙂 . It is honestly very similar to the chex muddy buddy mix but made with popcorn. So […] - [Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder](https://amykayskitchen.com/creamy-chicken-corn-chowder/):  It has been bitter cold here in the Northeast with tons of snow to go with it. Warm comforting meals have been the staple around here. This chicken corn chowder is warm, delicious, and filling and all my kids love it, so I can’t go wrong.  It’s  packed with veggies, ham and chicken and gets extra creaminess and flavor from some cheese and heavy cream. I usually simmer soups all day on the stove-top, but this is a soup that can be thrown together and cooked pretty quickly, making it great for a busier day. To make it even easier […] - [Creamy Homemade Body Wash and Hand Soap](https://amykayskitchen.com/creamy-homemade-body-wash-and-hand-soap/): Well, I know this is a “food” blog. But food making isn’t the only “from scratch” thing that goes on in my kitchen. I also make a lot of my health, home and beauty products from scratch. Over the years I have started making my own body scrubs, lotions, lip and hand balms, laundry soap, cleaning products, and this body wash and hand soap– which I am sharing today. This is one of my favorites and a huge money saver in this house. The only ingredients you need are bar soap and water- glycerin and essential oils are optional. I only […] - [Cowboy Spaghetti](https://amykayskitchen.com/cowboy-spaghetti/): This cowboy spaghetti has quickly become a family favorite. And to be honest, it’s one of this cook’s favorites too, since it is super easy and quick to make with simple ingredients. I am one who, more often then not, puts a lot of time into every day dinner preparation, but I sure have come to appreciate quick dinners, especially ones that taste this good!  This is not traditional spaghetti with meat sauce or anything. It has a totally different flare with bacon, fire roasted tomatoes and a slight kick from hot sauce (don’t worry not too much- my little […] - [Happy New Year and the Most Popular Posts of 2014!!](https://amykayskitchen.com/happy-new-year-and-the-most-popular-posts-of-2014/):  Happy New Year and Thank You for subscribing, sharing, liking and pinning !!!! Your support and feedback have been great.  2014 marked the first full year of this blog-  I made it!!! It has been an interesting journey for sure. I have learned a lot about starting up a blog, computer code (yuck!!), recipe development and picture taking. I still have tons to learn and am learning as I go what works and what doesn’t. Overall, it has been fun but challenging,  and I have wanted to quit on several occasions mainly because the investment of time it takes.  Time […] - [Fairy Gingerbread Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/fairy-gingerbread-cookies/): These cookies are amazing! Gingery delicate melt in your mouth bites of heaven. These are not your typical thick and chewy gingerbread cookies but instead this old fashioned recipe delivers a wafer texture that is light, airy, and crisp. I made these for the first time last year and was instantly hooked. They pack a great ginger flavor and the texture is just so unique. They are quite dangerous since they are so light, you can keep eating them and not notice they are almost gone. I believe I polished off at least a whole tray of them in an […] - [Lemon Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/lemon-raspberry-thumbprint-cookies/): Here is a great cookie to add to your Christmas cookie baking. They taste amazing and look great on any any cookie platter with the beautiful red centers. Or they are great for breakfast (ahem, ahem) with some coffee, as I accidentally discovered while taking pictures of them in the quickly clouding over sunshine one morning. I love these thumbprint cookies! The buttery cookie base has lemon zest added to it which really compliments it and goes so well with the raspberry jam centers. Of Course you can use other flavor jams to create different flavors and colors in the […] - [DIY Hot Chocolate Mix (without dry milk powder!)](https://amykayskitchen.com/diy-hot-chocolate-mix-without-dry-milk-powder/): Here is an awesome, simple and delicious Christmas gift idea!! Creamy, chocolatey homemade hot Cocoa that can be packed into regular jars, or even a mason jar mug. Tie a simple tag on with instructions and wa-lah, a perfectly simple gift. I have always made my hot cocoa with milk even when using the instant packages. So over the past few years, when I have looked for a homemade ready cocoa mix, I have been put off that they all contain dry milk powder. It is just one of those ingredients I am not too sure about and would rather […] - [Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Chips](https://amykayskitchen.com/crispy-baked-cinnamon-apple-chips/): I was so excited when apple season began this year, I overbought apples (if even possible lol). So I have been using them up in lots of different ways including making these addicting cinnamon apple chips. I love how the concentrated apple flavor comes out when you cook these and how crispy they are. A batch of these does not last long at all in this house- they are gone as quick as they come out of the oven!  They are really simple. You don’t even have to peel or core the apples, just slice very thinly. I just carefully […] - [Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole](https://amykayskitchen.com/overnight-pumpkin-french-toast-casserole/):  I have been trying to work on this great pumpkin breakfast casserole recipe for a while but it has had to take the back burner to my kids. We have been hit with the worst respiratory virus I have ever had to deal with. All four of my kids have ended up with Asthma symptoms from this virus even after the illness has subsided. So it’s been inhalers, nebulizers, steroids and antibiotics all around here- all stuff which I hate but is sometimes necessary. My youngest is still fighting it and has been hit the hardest of all, missing 4 […] - [How to Make Simple Moist Shredded or Cut Up Chicken](https://amykayskitchen.com/how-to-make-simple-moist-shredded-or-cut-up-chicken/): Have you ever needed some cooked shredded or cut up chicken for a salad, casserole, appetizer or let’s be honest, one of the other million dishes out there that call for it? If your like me, you don’t like to waste your time or money to go get a store cooked rotisserie chicken. Well this quick method has been a blessing to me and my go to method for getting well seasoned, moist shredded chicken every time I need it.  You can even make this ahead and refrigerate it or freeze it for later.   I haven’t really thought of sharing […] - [Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with optional Maple Icing](https://amykayskitchen.com/maple-brown-sugar-cookies-with-optional-maple-icing/): I don’t know why but fall just makes me think of foods like pumpkin, apples and maple syrup. I love maple syrup for breakfast all year long but there is something about the fall that makes me think of it for baked goods. I was really excited to try this recipe out when I first saw it and with a few tweaks to suit my family’s taste, they were perfect. These cookies are super soft and are great with or without the maple icing.  The only thing with making these is to test the batter for the maple flavoring- the […] - [Apple Cider Doughnut Muffins](https://amykayskitchen.com/apple-cider-doughnut-muffins/):  Here is the apple cider post I promised last week. Apple Cider Doughnut Muffins- I think that may be enough said?  I have been making a plain and a chocolate version of doughnut muffins that my family loves for several years now. So, when I had a cider doughnut at a car show that  we brought our boys to, I had the idea to transform the plain doughnut muffin into a cider muffin. I really wanted to make the muffin taste like a cider doughnut with apple cider flavor shining through. I think I succeeded with this recipe. I think […] - [Key Lime Bars](https://amykayskitchen.com/key-lime-bars/): O.K……. I know it’s officially fall here in the northeast, with the beautiful leaves and all, but it has been pretty warm- topping 80 degrees this past weekend. So I figured I sneak in a recipe for these amazing key lime bars and anyways, If you ask me, these bars are great for any time of the year! I do promise a great fall recipe next, one including some delicious apple cider. These key lime bars are absolute perfection- with a buttery crunchy crust and the perfect sweet lime combo for the filling. The crunchy toasted coconut on the top just […] - [My favorite Oatmeal Cookies (The best oatmeal cookies)](https://amykayskitchen.com/my-favorite-oatmeal-cookies-the-best-oatmeal-cookies/): These are the only oatmeal cookies I have ever loved and they are actually my all time favorite drop cookie. They are not a super chewy oatmeal cookie but the original cooks illustrated title calls them” thin and crispy oatmeal cookies” with a delicate crisp texture. I usually bake them so they are soft on the inside with crispy edges and in my world this is perfect. Even my husband who only likes chewy soft cookies, loves these.  The buttery flavor of these cookies combined with the texture just puts them over the top. I think I ate way to […] - [Chocolate Toffee Shortbread Bars](https://amykayskitchen.com/chocolate-toffee-shortbread-bars/): This is going to be a brief post but I wanted to get something up. It’s been crazy getting my kids back to school and very hard for me to send my youngest to kindergarten. Thank the Lord for the great school I am blessed to send my kids to and have been able to visit and have lunch with my kids when I want, making the transition easier. But for those rough days…. having something combining shortbread, chocolate and toffee(3 of my favorites) is sure comforting 🙂  I absolutely love shortbread and throw some toffee and chocolate in- I’m […] - [Grilled Chicken Caprese](https://amykayskitchen.com/grilled-chicken-caprese/): Juicy grilled chicken coated in a garlic basil vinaigrette, topped with grilled tomatoes and marinated fresh mozzarella- what’s not to love. This is one of my favorite ways to have grilled chicken, especially when I have an abundance of ripe tomatoes and fresh fragrant basil in the garden. And this year, I may even be guilty of standing in the snow grilling chicken to have this in the winter just like I do for these amazing pork chops every year!! It’s all worth it to me and the heat from the grill keeps me warm. But enough about winter, it’s […] - [Layered Bean and Feta Salad Jars](https://amykayskitchen.com/layered-bean-and-feta-salad-jars/): This has been a busy summer- 4 kids home from school, the youngest with a broken leg and now physical therapy to learn to walk again, my garden, housework, baking……. the list goes on and on. Some days I don’t think I even sit until bedtime. I think this has been evident with the fewer posts I have been able to get up. Lots has been going on in my kitchen, I just haven’t had time to share it! Well, here is a recipe I have been grateful for during these busy days. These layered bean jars can be made […] - [Ultimate Chocolate Ice Cream](https://amykayskitchen.com/ultimate-chocolate-ice-cream/): I have to say ice cream is my favorite summer dessert. It is so cold and refreshing on a hot day, doesn’t heat up the kitchen to make and is relatively uncomplicated. Just make a quick stove-top custard (I really prefer custard based ice cream)  and let the mix chill. The ice cream maker does the rest of the work. In my opinion this is so much easier than making a multi-step cake or dessert. It honestly takes under 20 minutes of hands on time, giving me more time to spend with my kids. Not to mention making me their […] - [Perfect Hamburgers](https://amykayskitchen.com/perfect-basic-hamburgers/):  I know hamburgers are simple and basic, but nothing can beat a perfectly seasoned, tender burger whether cooked on a hot grill or stove top. Over the years I have tried many different ingredients and seasonings in my hamburgers and have finally settled on this version that my whole family loves. They come out great every time and taste great in a cast iron skillet or on the grill.  And if you really want to put these burgers over the top, serve them on these homemade burger buns or on these homemade soft pretzel burger buns. This is a pretty basic […] - [Simple S'Mores Rice Krispie Treats](https://amykayskitchen.com/simple-smores-rice-krispie-treats/): I am sure there are plenty of great s’mores rice krispie treat recipes out there, from simple to more complicated. But I wanted to share the recipe for these super easy treats I just threw together one day and we have loved ever since.     They are super simple- I just use my favorite rice krispie treat recipe (yes it includes a lot of butter 🙂 ) and stir in some graham cracker pieces with the rice krispies, wait for it to cool a minute and stir in some chocolate chips.  It couldn’t be easier and the results are great. […] - [Cheesecake Ice Cream](https://amykayskitchen.com/cheesecake-ice-cream/):  Cheesecake Ice Cream- this stuff is great! The addition of the cream cheese to the ice cream makes it so creamy and delicious! I adore cheesecake but I never feel like running my oven for as long as it takes to bake one in the heat of summer. So this ice cream has been my solution. I tried several recipes out then experimented quite a bit. This is the final result of many, many test batches of cheesecake ice cream- the kids and hubby sure didn’t complain about this 🙂 . I settled on a french style ice cream with […] - [Frozen Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Banana Bites](https://amykayskitchen.com/frozen-chocolate-covered-peanut-butter-banana-bites/): Frozen chocolate covered peanut butter banana bites- now that’s a mouthful (but a good one!).  Last year, I started making frozen chocolate covered bananas for my family as a quick and healthy summer treat. When I went to make them again this year the light bulb went off-  I absolutely love bananas and peanut butter- as a quick snack or in a smoothie. So why not add peanut butter to this this frozen treat. It took a couple of tries to get the easiest method down but I will never make these treats without the peanut butter again- it was […] - [The Best Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns](https://amykayskitchen.com/the-best-hamburger-and-hot-dog-buns/): It’s taken a little extra time for me to get this post up, but it has been an eventful couple of weeks here. My little 4 year old baby girl broke her leg on a bouncy house and it has been a whirlwind of trying to figure out how to manage her and keep her comfortable (all while trying to heal from my own back injury making it difficult to lift her!). Here she is with her big sister helping………………. To top it off we left on a trip to NYC only 2 days after she broke her leg. That […] - [Summer Avocado and Tomato Salad](https://amykayskitchen.com/summer-avocado-and-tomato-salad/): The last couple of summers I have been blessed with an abundance of cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes from our garden, and have had to get creative to use them up. Combining these veggies in a salad with avocados is one recipe that really worked and quickly became one of our favorite salads and a great alternative to the traditional lettuce salad. It is so delicious and healthy and colorful- even the kids love it and that is a huge plus in our house! This bright avocado salad is very simple and you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking […] - [The Best Lemon Topped Blueberry Muffins](https://amykayskitchen.com/the-best-lemon-topped-blueberry-muffins/): These are absolutely amazingly delicious blueberry muffins. Every time I see blueberries on sale my mind goes right to these soft tender muffins. They are not the basic blueberry muffin either- They have a super moist buttermilk muffin base with blueberries , but you also swirl in some fresh sweetened cooked blueberries (like a blueberry jam). To top it off, and I think this is my favorite part, these muffins are sprinkled with lemon sugar. The bright flavor this adds and the crunchy texture are beyond compare. These muffins take a bit of extra effort but it is well worth […] - [Salted Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats](https://amykayskitchen.com/salted-brown-butter-rice-krispie-treats/): In general, I try to stay away from the processed foods. However, these little treats are worth the occasional wander into the isles of  prepackaged food. I have always loved rice krispie treats but this recipe from Smitten Kitchen just takes them to a new level. There is something about the nutty caramel flavor of brown butter that I just adore and  combined with the touch of salt and marshmallows- a winning combo!  This was actually the first recipe that I used brown butter in and since then I have discovered many other great brown butter recipes, including, these delicious brown […] - [Asparagus With Fried Eggs and Parmesan Cheese](https://amykayskitchen.com/asparagus-with-fried-eggs-and-parmesan-cheese/): Lately, I have been eating eggs on everything. Partly because I have so many fresh eggs thanks to a wonderful friend, but mostly because I love them.  I think they are great on leftover veggies like zucchini or roasted potatoes. But lately I have been eating them regularly on asparagus and this is my new favorite! It is simple idea and super healthy and as far as I’m concerned you can never have too many breakfast ideas. In fact, this is a great lunch or light dinner too.   Honestly, just cook an egg or two to your liking and put […] - [Chewy Coconut Chocolate Chip Granola Bars](https://amykayskitchen.com/chewy-coconut-chocolate-chip-granola-bars/):  Super chewy, soft granola bars loaded with coconut flakes and chocolate chips- super easy and taste amazing! I was so excited to find a great granola bar recipe online that I could easily adapt to our tastes.  I was buying the more expensive granola bars with better ingredients for my kids lunches, and at almost $4 a box this was too much for my budget. These are made at a fraction of the cost. I buy organic oatmeal and unsweetened coconut at my local co-op for a great price and with just a few minutes of time each week, I have […] - [Cinnamon Roll Cake](https://amykayskitchen.com/cinnamon-roll-cake/): This cake is a cross between a delicious coffee cake and a cinnamon roll. When eaten warm it actually tastes just like a warm cinnamon roll straight from the oven–only without the hassle of working with a yeast dough or the wait of allowing a dough to rise. This cake has a couple of steps, but easy ones. For both the cake base and cinnamon filling you basically just dump the ingredients in the mixing bowl and briefly mix. Then you swirl them together and bake them into this amazing cake. This cake is perfect for a morning or anytime […] - [Cilantro Lime Coleslaw](https://amykayskitchen.com/cilantro-lime-coleslaw/): This is the best coleslaw ever and this is coming from a huge fan of creamy mayonnaise based coleslaw. This coleslaw is clean and fresh tasting with just the right amount of sweet and tart to it. It is super versatile and is great as a side dish or as a topping. We love it on pork sandwiches or fish tacos. Even Better, this can be used as a dip for tortilla chips- Amazing! This makes it a great appetizer or snack and a great dish to bring to a get together. It comes together quickly and keeps in the […] - [Parmesan Crusted Grilled Cheese](https://amykayskitchen.com/parmesan-crusted-grilled-cheese/):  This is the best grilled cheese! My husband proclaimed that I have ruined him for regular grilled cheese forever by making this for him. A grilled cheese made even cheesier with parmesan cheese cooked on the outside- yum!  I have had a grilled cheese similar to this at a popular chain restaurant. I decided to recreate something similar (and way better if you ask me) at home with the ingredients I had on hand.  As you read the recipe just try to ignore the amount of butter and cheese in this and think of the calcium and protein you are […] - [Grilled Pork Chops with Lemon Chive Butter (The Best Grilled Pork Chops)](https://amykayskitchen.com/grilled-pork-chops-with-lemon-chive-butter-the-best-grilled-pork-chops/): These are the BEST pork chops ever. I have even braved below zero weather this winter to have these grilled pork chops- Yes, they are that good. My family actually calls them “fake steak” because they almost taste like a really good steak. They are tender, juicy and so flavorful. The lemon chive butter just sends them over the top. The great part about them is they are loved by my entire family and trust me it is not easy to find something that all four children love!   I only changed a few things in this recipe. I changed the […] - [Buttermilk White Bread (Our favorite sandwich bread)](https://amykayskitchen.com/buttermilk-white-bread-our-favorite-sandwich-bread/): In general, I try to make sourdough or whole grain bread for my family, but I must admit, there is just something about a nice soft slice of homemade white bread. And this is hands down the BEST recipe for white bread I have tried.  I came across this recipe a few months ago and instead of making it as written the first time like I usually do, I experimented right away. I have been on a buttermilk kick and had just finished making an amazingly soft herb bread with buttermilk. So I figured, why not give buttermilk a try […] - [Simple Snack Mix (my kids favorite school snack)](https://amykayskitchen.com/simple-snack-or-trail-mix/): This is one of those posts that’s more like and idea than a recipe, kind of like one of the first few posts I did for Mexican Rice Bowls.  I wasn’t going to post this because of the simplicity, but I figured why not? I am always trying to think of healthy snacks for my kids that don’t cost a lot and are simple to make- so I am sure there are a lot of others out there who have the same issue. One day I just threw this together and it quickly became a favorite…not just for the kids […] - [Moist Lemon Bundt Cake](https://amykayskitchen.com/moist-lemon-bundt-cake/): I came up with this lemon cake after being inspired by this wonderful recipe for Old Fashioned Hot Milk Cake (and my love for lemon 🙂 ). I have been looking forward to Spring to arrive here in the Northeast and lemon is just one of those flavors that reminds me of spring and summertime. I just thought this cake base would be perfectly suited to create a lemon flavored cake. I was right- it worked perfectly and it’s a great way to welcome Spring! Instead of a sheet cake, I decided to pretty it up a bit and bake it as a […] - [Oatmeal Pancake Mix](https://amykayskitchen.com/oatmeal-pancake-mix/): I am not a morning person (at least not until I have had coffee), so it goes to say I am not one to enjoy making complicated breakfasts. Cereal used to be my favorite breakfast to “make” for my family because it only involved pouring cereal and milk 🙂 .  Now this easy breakfast only happens once or twice a week since we cut down on processed food. Other mornings we rely on the abundance of eggs from our chickens , steel cut oats (made the super easy way), overnight blender waffles, and this yummy oatmeal pancake mix. It’s great […] - [Soft Pretzel Hamburger Rolls, Dinner Rolls or Hot Dog Buns](https://amykayskitchen.com/soft-pretzel-hamburger-hot-dog-or-dinner-rolls/): This is such a versatile recipe and a family favorite for sure. My kids have each already requested hamburgers made with these rolls for there birthdays this year. These rolls are super soft and absolutely delicious. They taste like a soft pretzel in a roll form. And as far as dough goes this is a pretty easy one to work with.   I based this recipe off of my soft pretzel recipe that makes pretzels that taste like those great mall ones. I changed it up a bit because using the recipe as is produced a denser chewier roll (which by […] - [Maple Brown Sugar Slow Cooker Ham](https://amykayskitchen.com/slow-cooker-ham/): Ham in the slow cooker? I never would have imagined- but it was one of those life changing recipes. You will definitely want to bookmark this recipe for Easter! I always loved to cook a nice spiral sliced ham, but it took up my oven at too low of temperature to make anything else with it. And honestly I think I only liked to cook the ham as a means to get the bone and extra meat for soups and other uses.  I was so excited to try this recipe and it was better than I could have imagined. Instead […] - [Amazing Chocolate Frosting](https://amykayskitchen.com/amazing-chocolate-frosting/): Sorry this post took more than a couple of days since I posted the perfect yellow cupcake recipe…. but our house got hit hard with the stomach bug this week. So, needless to say, I have spent the past several days caring for sick kids (and myself), doing laundry and cleaning.  Even more reason to be extra happy I found this homemade jello recipe! Enough of that awfulness— This chocolate frosting has been a favorite of mine for some time now. It is smooth, delicious, and not overly sweet at all. It has a a great chocolate flavor that comes […] - [Perfect Yellow Cupcakes](https://amykayskitchen.com/perfect-yellow-cupcakes/): Yet another conquest completed………. to find a recipe to make a homemade version of a previously store bought item……… Yellow cupcakes, the perfect accompaniment to chocolate frosting. There is just something amazing about a simple yellow cupcake topped with chocolate frosting that can’t be beat.  And here is an awesome homemade yellow cupcake recipe. This is way better than any boxed mixed and is sooooo incredibly easy you will wonder why a boxed mix was ever needed!  It’s made in just a few short minutes in one mixing bowl. These yellow cupcakes are very soft, moist and fluffy and are […] - [Homemade Jello](https://amykayskitchen.com/homemade-jello-2/):    I have always loved jello when my digestive system is off- from a stomach bug or whatever.  Of course, I sadly gave this up  when I cut the dyes, artificial flavors  and other nasty ingredients out of our diets. Then, recently, I came down with a serious digestive problem where I was  only allowed liquids and then soft foods for a couple weeks. I was craving jello so bad but couldn’t bring myself to eat the stuff from a box. My friend came to the rescue with a container of Kosher Gelatin  and the internet came to the rescue […] - [Homemade Italian Dressing](https://amykayskitchen.com/homemade-italian-dressing/):   I recently found this simple recipe for an amazing Italian dressing and I couldn’t be happier.  Ever since I gave up buying pre-made dressings, because of the additives and ingredients in them, I have been searching for a great Italian dressing recipe.  My search has finally ended with this recipe- it hit the mark perfectly! It is absolutely delicious and my whole family loves it. I actually find myself craving salads just to have this dressing. It kind of reminds me of an Olive Garden style Italian dressing, only better.    This dressing only has a few simple ingredients in it, comes […] - [My Favorite Roasted Potatoes](https://amykayskitchen.com/my-favorite-roasted-potatoes/): This is my go to recipe for potatoes. My whole family adores them so much that I usually make double batches of it. They cook up crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and are super easy to throw together. I often make enough to have leftovers and serve them with eggs the next morning- just heat them up in a frying pan quickly. I even make them on nights we have breakfast for dinner and make breakfast bowls out of them. They are sooooo good.  They are super easy because you don’t have to stand over a […] - [Flourless Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies (gluten free)](https://amykayskitchen.com/flourless-peanut-butter-brownie-cookies-gluten-free-3/): If you are not gluten free, just ignore the fact that these are flourless and make them!  If you are gluten free, bookmark this recipe and try it out!! These cookies are AMAZING! They taste like fudgy, soft peanut butter brownies. They are absolutely addicting and this is coming from someone who is not the biggest cookie fan. But they are more like eating a brownie in portable cookie form so that’s a win-win in my book! My family is not gluten free but I have some friends that are. And for the sake of health, I do try to […] - [Seasoned Bread Crumbs](https://amykayskitchen.com/seasoned-bread-crumbs/):   It is amazing how we come to rely on and think we need certain “staples” from the grocery store. Bread crumbs used to be one of those “staple” items for me. That was until I realized how easy and cost effective they were to make, not to mention how much better they taste homemade!     Another huge bonus of making them myself is that I can control the quality of bread and other ingredients that goes into them. If you are gluten free, just use gluten free bread and you can make your own gluten free bread crumbs!  And […] - [Old Fashioned Hot Milk Cake](https://amykayskitchen.com/old-fashioned-hot-milk-cake/): Here is a recipe for a deliciously moist old fashioned cake. I came across this recipe a couple of years ago and I am sure glad I did.  With a couple of tweaks, it has been one of my favorite go to quick cakes since.  It is super moist and stays that way for several days covered at room temperature. It is sturdy enough to hold up to a frosting, but I think it’s perfect with  a dusting of confectionery sugar or with some berries and  fresh whipped cream!    It is made by first beating the eggs, then adding the dry […] - [Herb Crusted Chicken Breast With Honey Butter](https://amykayskitchen.com/herb-crusted-chicken-breast-with-honey-butter/):   Alright, here is another amazing chicken breast recipe and it is done start to finish in under 30 minutes!  I love boneless chicken breast because there are so many ways to cook them and so many flavor combinations.  This is one of the top recipes for chicken breast in our house. Chicken coated with deliciously seasoned bread crumbs, cooked to perfection and served topped with melted honey butter. The combination is one that will leave you wanting to make it again (maybe even the next day)!      I found this recipe a several years ago on the internet […] - [Cinnamon Gooey Butter Cake](https://amykayskitchen.com/cinnamon-gooey-butter-cake/):  I don’t know about you but any recipe with the word butter in the title catches my attention. I have always liked gooey butter cakes and cookies but sadly haven’t made them in a while since the recipes that I had utilized boxed mixes.  Since I am trying to avoid boxed mixes and things with lots of additives,  gooey butter cakes fell off my baking list. That is, until I spotted this recipe. A gooey butter cake from scratch and topped with cinnamon…….. even better!  It’s fairly simple to make. First you make a thick cookie type batter as a […] - [No Knead Artisan Bread](https://amykayskitchen.com/no-knead-artisan-bread/):     This is a bread that everyone should have in their recipe file. It is delicious, inexpensive and quick and easy to make. I was always intrigued by the no knead bread making methods and this was the first one I tried. I have been making it ever since and have never been disappointed. It’s great because you quickly stir (no kneading necessary) a big batch together, let it rise and then store it in the fridge for up to a week or so. You can just pull out enough dough to make a loaf when you need it. And […] - [Caramelized Oat Topping](https://amykayskitchen.com/caramelized-oat-topping/):   I am going to warn you now….. These oats are meant to be used as a topping for yogurt or apples or ice cream, etc. However, I make no guarantee you will not be overwhelmed with the urge to eat them by the spoonful or pick at them all day! These unique oats are crispy, buttery and sweet- absolutely amazing.     These oats have taken my oatmeal breakfast back to not-boring. Yes, I adore my steel cut oats (especially with this easy preparation method), but, it does get boring after a while even with different add ins. Sprinkle some […] - [Easy Steel Cut Oatmeal](https://amykayskitchen.com/easy-steel-cut-oatmeal/):      I was actually never a fan of oatmeal. It’s a texture thing, I just didn’t like how mushy it was. Then I discovered steel cut oats and fell in love. They reminded me of a favorite childhood breakfast treat I had eaten. I would warm up leftover white rice and eat it with milk, cinnamon, sugar and butter. The steel cut oats reminded me of that texture and I loved them.  Once my kids tried it, they preferred this type of oatmeal too.       The problem was that steel cut oats take 30 to 40 minutes to […] - [Chocolate Chip Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/chocolate-chip-pretzel-peanut-butter-cookies/):   Chocolate Chip Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies– wow– say that a few times fast 🙂 ! These are a new take on one of my favorite cookies, Chocolate Chip Pretzel Cookies. One day it just came to me to try to add the same chocolate chip and pretzel combination to a peanut butter cookie. I mean what’s better than chocolate and pretzels? Maybe chocolate, pretzels and peanut butter!  So I baked and baked and baked and tweaked my old peanut butter cookie recipe until I came up with this one. I wanted my peanut butter cookie to be soft, not […] - [Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps](https://amykayskitchen.com/sweet-bacon-chicken-wraps/):   Here is a great recipe that is sure to be a hit for any upcoming Super Bowl feast you have planned. These little sweet bacon wrapped chicken appetizers are our favorite. I mean doesn’t just about anything (within reason lol) wrapped in bacon taste better? These are a staple every year on my Christmas Eve appetizer menu and also appear throughout the year at other gatherings and for a fun dinner every now and then. Bite sized chicken breast pieces, coated in brown sugar and chili powder, then wrapped in bacon and coated again. Delicious! A sweet and salty […] - [Kielbasa Cabbage Soup](https://amykayskitchen.com/kielbasa-cabbage-soup/):    With all this bitter cold we have been experiencing here in the North East, I have been making a lot of soups. And this is one of the most amazing soups I have had. The cabbage cooks up with  a sweetness to it and is not bitter at all. That subtle sweetness paired with the salty kielbasa, wow! The flavor is amazing and combined with the fact this soup is so easy and quick to prepare, it makes it a keeper for sure. Even if you are not a huge cabbage fan, don’t be afraid to give this a […] - [Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders](https://amykayskitchen.com/hot-ham-and-cheese-sliders/): –   These little hot ham and cheese sliders would be great at any gathering- a luncheon, brunch or for game day. Not to mention- they appear on our dinner table now and then. You start with sweeter rolls, such as Hawaiian Rolls ( I stopped buying the popular store brand because of all the additives and usually make my own rolls). Then you top the rolls with ham and Gruyere cheese and spread chive and onion cream cheese on the tops. As if that wasn’t enough, a seasoned butter mixture gets poured over the sandwiches, and then a sprinkle […] - [Chicken Georgia](https://amykayskitchen.com/chicken-georgia/):     Seasoned chicken breasts smothered in buttery mushrooms and onions, served topped generously with melted mozzarella cheese. Mmmm!  This amazing one skillet chicken dish has been in our family dinner rotation for a few years. It is one I turn to often because it is super quick and easy to make. And we don’t repeat dinners very often, so this says a lot! With only a few simple ingredients, minimal preparation, and about 30 minutes- this chicken turns out absolutely delicious. I only changed a few things up from the original recipe. The original recipe doesn’t call for seasoning […] - [Overnight Blender Waffles](https://amykayskitchen.com/overnight-blender-waffles/):    A while into the process of cutting down on convenience foods, I worked on cutting down on cold cereals. A couple of years ago, cereal is all we ate. I was never one to cook a breakfast. So this was a tough change. Now we eat cereal maybe once or twice a week and these waffles appear often! With their crispy exterior, soft fluffy interior and amazing flavor, we love them! They are actually my favorite waffle and…….. don’t tell anyone…….. they are really healthy too!     I searched for recipes that would be quick to prepare in […] - [Homemade Vanilla Extract](https://amykayskitchen.com/homemade-vanilla-extract/):   Do you ever get tired of buying those expensive tiny little bottles of pure vanilla extract? I did. So I did some online searching and discovered just how easy and inexpensive it was to make large amounts of vanilla at home. I haven’t looked back since.       It’s amazingly simple to do. All you need is an inexpensive bottle of vodka, some fresh vanilla beans and time for it to sit. Online sources vary widely in the bean/vodka ratio to use but I have found somewhere in the middle works for me. You can always add more beans […] - [Brown Butter Snickerdoodles](https://amykayskitchen.com/brown-butter-snickerdoodles/):     I will admit it, I am a brown butter fanatic.  Once I discovered this wonderful new way to use butter I was hooked. Ever since that first smell of the amazing nutty aroma and the almost caramel flavor of it in baked goods,  I have bookmarked or tried almost every brown butter recipe that I have come across. These brown butter snickerdoodles were one of the first recipes I tried and they are absolutely delicious.      Snickerdoodles are one of my favorite cookies to begin with and adding brown butter to them just takes them to a […] - [Homemade Yogurt](https://amykayskitchen.com/homemade-yogurt/):    Here is a great recipe to start the New Year with.  Homemade Yogurt that can either be made smooth and creamy or, with one extra step, into thick greek style yogurt.  It is super healthy and full of that good bacteria that helps keep the digestive system working right, making it good to keep on hand for healthy eating.  And if you are already a yogurt lover, making your own can save a ton of money. You can start off making a gallon of  creamy style yogurt for the cost of a gallon of milk and one small container […] - [The Best Soft Pretzels (copycat of the mall pretzels)](https://amykayskitchen.com/soft-pretzels-copycat-of-the-mall-pretzels/):   This recipe was born out of much trial and error. I have been trying recipes for soft pretzels since before I even had a clue about bread making.  All in an attempt to recreate my favorite mall pretzel at home.  I had never found a recipe that even came close, even ones that claim to be the copycat recipe. Out of frustration, I spent the $7 or $8 dollars at the grocery store for the mix that my favorite pretzel place sells to make at home.  They were good…………….. ..but then.. “light bulb” low and behold the ingredient list […] - [Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream Puffs](https://amykayskitchen.com/chocolate-peanut-butter-cream-puffs/):    A chocolate cream puff shell filled with peanut butter pastry cream and topped with chocolate peanut butter ganache. Do I have to say much more? I came up with the idea for these when I was making several chocolate peanut butter deserts for my littlest daughter, who loves that combination. And I love, I mean love, pastry cream.  So, I decided to figure out a way to make peanut butter pastry cream and chocolate cream puff shells. Pretty much, the first try was a success and with a few tweaks, I came up with this recipe.     I used The […] - [Muffuletta Dip or Topping](https://amykayskitchen.com/muffuletta-dip-or-topping/):   This is an amazing dip that can be thrown together in all of ten minutes! Although, I wouldn’t quite classify it as a dip, more of a topping. It is a wonderful combination of salty olive salad, salami and cheese -reminiscent of the classic muffuletta sandwich. I came across this in search for something new to try for my Christmas Eve party and I have been addicted ever since. It can be made a day or two ahead of time and tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to blend. This was a mistake for me though, […] - [Gorgonzola Chicken Marsala](https://amykayskitchen.com/gorgonzola-chicken-marsala/):   Here is an exceptional way to make boneless chicken breast any night of the week. This dish is simple enough for a work night and special enough to feed guests. Seared chicken breasts with mushrooms in a creamy Marsala wine sauce with Gorgonzola cheese added- Yum! The cheese is not overpowering in this- even my kids will eat it. This dish has been a hit since I first made it over a year ago. I think the first time I made it, I personally cleaned the leftover sauce out of the pan- none went down the drain- it is […] - [Mini Bacon and Cheese Quiches](https://amykayskitchen.com/mini-bacon-and-cheese-quiches/): These little babies are amazing. Delicious AND you can make them ahead of time and freeze them.  Every year, I host a Christmas Eve gathering for my family that includes a variety of appetizers, finger foods, and a big pot of seafood bisque. I have always found this challenging because, until my kitchen remodel is complete, I only have one oven.  I love hot appetizers and dips, but it’s tough to manage several different items because I run out of oven room or need several different oven temperatures. I have come to rely on and love recipes like these mini […] - [Homemade Thin Mint Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/homemade-thin-mint-cookies/): Around Christmas time last year, I experimented with these cookies a lot. I baked a lot of different chocolate cookie dough to find the one I liked the best. I tried dipping them in white chocolate, all chocolate and half of each. The winner was the dough in this recipe rolled thin, cooked a little crispy, and dipped in dark chocolate.  They are an amazing combination of chocolate and mint and won rave reviews from anyone who tried them.  If you ask me, they are much better than any commercially produced version and I know what went in them!  These […] - [Italian Cheese Bread](https://amykayskitchen.com/italian-cheese-bread/):   If it were up to my oldest son, every food would be on the family favorite list at our house. Most dinners he sits down and says, “ooh, my favorite”. He hasn’t met too many foods that he does not like. But this is truly a family favorite. This is a bread that I turn to when I haven’t had the time or haven’t been home to spend the day making bread for dinner. This one can be done from start to finish in about an hour (much less actual hands on time). It is absolutely wonderful and tastes […] - [Cinnamon Roll Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/cinnamon-roll-cookies/): I have had these cookies bookmarked for some time now and finally got around to making them. It seems my “wish list” of recipes to make is ever expanding and sometimes things get pushed to the wayside. I am ever so happy that these finally made it to the top of the list. I have made them several times since because they are amazing! It’s a wonderful shortbread based cookie with swirls of cinnamon sugar. Then you drizzle icing over the top when they are cooled (that’s if they make it that long!). I had to guard this batch from […] - [Mexican Rice bowls](https://amykayskitchen.com/mexican-rice-bowls/): Once in a while, when our busy schedules align, a really close friend and I will get our families together for dinner. It ends up quite a large gathering with the 6 of us and the 5 of them. So we usually rack our brains for dinner ideas that are economical and simple to prepare. This way we can enjoy each other’s company instead of spending the whole visit slaving over a stove or cleaning up. On one such occasion, my close friend came up with this idea for rice bowls for us to make- an idea that was based […] - [DIY Homemade Taco Seasoning](https://amykayskitchen.com/diy-homemade-taco-seasoning/): Here is a quick easy mix that can replace those little taco seasoning packets. I have been trying to cut back on using seasoning packets due to the added preservatives and ingredients in them. Making your own mix  can save money and also allow you to control the quality of ingredients and amount of salt you are using. This is really easy and quick to do. You just mix up a large batch ahead of time and then have it on hand when you need it. Please note there is no salt added in this recipe, so add salt to taste […] - [Pecan Bars](https://amykayskitchen.com/pecan-bars/): I wasn’t planning on posting today, but I made these little beauties and they are delicious. So I figured I would share them in time for Thanksgiving weekend. They are basically a pecan pie made with a shortbread crust. If you ask me, they are even better than pie because (at least in my opinion) buttery shortbread is way better than pie crust! And because they are bars, you can pick them up and eat them with your hands.   There are a few steps to these, but it is well worth it. It calls for toasted pecans,  so you […] - [Chocolate Chip Pretzel Cookies](https://amykayskitchen.com/chocolate-chip-pretzel-cookies/):   These are one of the best cookies ever. One of my most requested cookies that I make. An abundance of sweet chocolate chips paired with the saltiness of the pretzels, a winning combination. What more is there to say about these cookies except, make them! I thought about putting pretzels in a cookie one day after making a snack that combined pretzels and chocolate chips. That combo was a huge craving for me at the end of my last pregnancy. So I did a recipe search and came up with this recipe. It just worked.     The only […] - [Hearty Sausage Vegetable Soup (with or without tortellini)](https://amykayskitchen.com/hearty-sausage-vegetable-soup-with-or-without-tortellini/):     I don’t know about you but I LOVE soup. I am even  guilty of making soup on a hot  summer day (thank you air conditioning!).  That being said, there is nothing as comforting as the smell of a large pot of soup simmering on the stove on a cold fall or winter day. This is one of our family favorite soups that is very easy to put together.  Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the recipe, this is a hearty soup that is packed with flavor and chock full of vegetables, not to mention delicious italian sausage! […] - [The Best Chocolate Cake and Cupcake Recipe](https://amykayskitchen.com/the-best-chocolate-cake-and-cupcake-recipe/):     A while ago I began the process of “unprocessing” the food my family eats. We cut out a lot of convenience foods and boxed items. I really had a hard time giving up boxed cake mixes due to both the convenience of them and not having good replacement recipes. Well, after not making cakes for a while (a true tragedy in my home), I decided to put an end to this dilemma. And were my kids ever excited about the method. I baked several recipes at a time and let the taste testing begin!! The chocolate cakes with […] ## Pages - [Recipe Dietary](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-dietary/) - [Recipe Badges](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-badges/) - [Recipe Tags](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-tags/) - [Recipe Keys](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-keys/) - [Recipe Cuisines](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-cuisines/) - [Recipe Cooking Methods](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-cooking-methods/) - [Recipe Courses](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-courses/) - [Recipe Dashboard](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-dashboard/): [dr_user_dashboard] - [Recipe Search](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-search/): [recipe_search] - [Recipe Index](https://amykayskitchen.com/list/) - [Recipe Index](https://amykayskitchen.com/category/) - [Recipe Index](https://amykayskitchen.com/recipe-index/) - [Newsletter](https://amykayskitchen.com/newsletter/): [newsletter] - [Cookie Policy (US)](https://amykayskitchen.com/cookie-policy-us/): Once the patents for the branded ED drugs expired, the situation took a turn for the better, and generic variants were introduced. cheap viagra 25mg This is because the nitric female viagra samples oxide levels are raised within the body. The sufficient blood storage in male genitals helps male http://djpaulkom.tv/dj-paul-talks-horror-sizzurp-and-more-with-passionweiss/ commander viagra organ having favorable circumstances and becoming stiffed for insertion. This is said to be a purchase viagra no prescription perfect product for the treatment of erectile dysfunction or as it is known by the name of impotence and they feel quite embarrassed about it not in terms of […] - [Privacy Policy](https://amykayskitchen.com/privacy-policy/): Who we are Our website address is: https://amykayskitchen.com. Comments  When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment. Media If you upload images to […] - [Contact Me](https://amykayskitchen.com/contact-me/) - [FAQ's](https://amykayskitchen.com/contact/): Let’s get this Disclaimer out of the way: In regard to Amazon products links on this website: “Amy Kay’s Kitchen is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.” In other words- I earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon.  In regard to ipage- I participate in the ipage affiliate program and receive advertising fees for any qualifying purchases made once the link is clicked. Now here is what this page is really meant for! Flour I always use […] - [About Me](https://amykayskitchen.com/about-me/): My name is Amy and I am a wife, mother of five, and an occasional RN. I love the Lord God Almighty with all my heart and desire to honor Him in all I do. I would really like to use this blog to bless others with the recipes and knowledge that have come from all my work and time spent in the kitchen. Over the past decade, I have developed a passion for cooking and have a desire to share recipes with family and friends and whoever else may happen by this site. I love to try new recipes […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)