Two-Bean Hummus

The post 82 Thanksgiving Recipes That’ll Make You Feel Like a Kid Again appeared first on Taste of Home.

Herbed Chicken Caesar Salad

This chicken Caesar salad looks and tastes fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. It’s my husband’s favorite dinner.Kay Andersen, Bear, Delaware

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Savory Party Bread

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Slow-Cooker Honey Nut Granola

I lightened up a friend’s recipe and changed the add-ins to our tastes. This honey nut granola is now a family favorite! You can vary the recipe as you like, changing the nuts, seeds or dried fruits. Tari Ambler, Shorewood, Illinois

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Instant Pot Meat Loaf

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You likely have a few blocks of this dairy staple stocked in the fridge, but if you suddenly realize you’re out and don’t have time to run to the store, don’t sweat it. It’s easy to swap in a similar ingredient that will yield surprisingly delicious results.

Here are eight easy substitutes you likely have on hand that will work in place of cream cheese, and a few easy tips on how to do it right. And next time you shop, be sure to stock up on our Test Kitchen’s favorite cream cheese brands.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is yogurt that’s been strained to remove the liquid whey, resulting in a thicker yogurt that’s higher in protein and lower in fat. It adds a rich, creamy texture and because it has a pleasant tanginess, it won’t sacrifice any of the flavor. Simply sub in an equal amount of Greek yogurt for the cream cheese in your recipe. You’ll love the zing it adds to the frosting in these Key lime bars.

Sour Cream

Sour cream is an ingredient you likely have stocked in the fridge, so its a convenient one to reach for when youre fresh out of cream cheese. With its thick texture and tangy, slightly sour flavor, its great in dips and sauces, stirred into mashed potatoes or blended into a rich topping for a salad. Its not recommended for soups because the heat will cause the cream to curdle. Use 1 cup sour cream for 1 cup cream cheese to achieve desired results.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a fresh unripened cheese with a mild, creamy taste. Its lower in fat and calories than other types of cheese, making it ideal when youre in search of a lighter option. However, to achieve a consistency close to regular cream cheese, you need to add heavy cream, which will up the calorie count. For frostings and desserts, mix a cup of strained cottage cheese with a cup of heavy cream. For dips and sauces, blend strained cottage cheese and puree to achieve a super-smooth texture.

Neufchatel

Neufchatel, basically a low-fat version of cream cheese, is one of the best standard substitutes, especially when making cheesecake. Traditional French Neufchatel has its origins in the quaint town of Neufchatel-en-Bray in Normandy. Youre probably more familiar with American Neufchatel, which is similar in flavor and texture to regular cream cheese, but lower in fat (about 1/3 less) because it’s made with whole milk instead of cream. You can use Neufchatel in a 1:1 ratio with regular cream cheese.

Mascarpone

Mascarpone, a staple ingredient in tiramisu, is the Italian version of cream cheese. This ultra-rich product (up to 75% fat!) is made from whole cream, cultures and acids, and lends a mildly sweet flavor to dips and desserts, making it a top pick when you don’t have regular cream cheese on hand. Mascarpone achieves the best results when used as a 1:1 substitute for cream cheese.

Editor’s note: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to mascarpone when you want the slightly acidic taste that cream cheese imparts.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta, classified as a whey cheese, is a soft, white and sweet dairy by-product that’s typically made by re-cooking the whey that is produced in the making of other cheeses. You’re probably most familiar with it as the creamy filling tucked inside lasagna and manicotti.

To use as a cream cheese substitute in baked goods and dips, blend one cup ricotta with one cup plain yogurt to equal two cups substitute. For frosting and cheesecakes, blend one cup ricotta with one cup heavy cream to equal two cups substitute.

Kefir

Kefir is a tart, tangy yogurt-like drink made from fermented milk. You’ve probably seen it listed as an ingredient in homemade smoothies, as it boasts numerous health benefits and can even aid in easing digestive maladies. But because kefir is more watery than regular cream cheese, it can’t be subbed in on its own. To achieve optimal results, mix one cup kefir with cup chia seeds. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to allow the seeds to absorb the kefir’s liquid content. Once thickened, it can be used just like regular cream cheese. This substitute is best used in dips and sauces rather than desserts or frosting. Here are our favorite heavy cream substitutes.

Cashew Cheese

Cashew cheese is a non-dairy, vegan substitute for cheese. Its typically made of blended cashews, nutritional yeast, water and a blend of seasonings. You can find it at natural food and organic grocery stores as well as specialty cheese shops. Or make your own! Use 1 cup cashew cheese in place of 1 cup regular cream cheese in savory dishes like soups or sauces, or simply enjoy it as a delicious schmear on a toasted bagel. But heads up, its not an ideal swap for baked goods or frosting. If you’re craving cheesecake and follow a dairy-free diet, you’re better off sticking to a recipe for dairy-free cheesecake.

Our Favorite Ways to Use Cream Cheese

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Baked Crab DipWe enjoyed this exquisite crab dip at my grandson's wedding reception. It looks fancy but is easy to make. You can even fill the bread bowl early in the day and chill it until serving. Just remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Marie Shelley, Exeter, MissouriGo to RecipeIf you need some more cheesy inspiration, here are our topcream cheese dip recipes.

Obatzda (German Beer Cheese Dip)Obatzda, otherwise known as German beer cheese dip, is so delicious and creamy. It's the perfect dip to make the night before at get-together. Beate Trinkl, Einsbach, Germany

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Red Velvet Pound CakeThis delicious red velvet pound cake is the perfect combination of flavors. Make sure the cake has cooled before icing it, and for extra crunch sprinkle some roasted pecans on top. —Robin Smith, Old Fort, North Carolina

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Heavenly Cheese DanishThis tempting cheese Danish bakes to flaky perfection's shines with the simple gloss of an egg wash. It tastes just as decadent as any breakfast pastry you'd find in a bakery or coffee shop. Josephine Triton, Lakewood, Ohio

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Decadent Spinach-Stuffed ShellsI created this comforting stuffed shells dish to serve on Christmas Eve, but its so good we enjoy it all year long. It can easily be assembled and frozen to bake at a later date. If you have any leftover cheese mixture, it can be served as a dip either cold or spooned into ramekins and baked until brown. If you dont like roasted red peppers, feel free to substitute chopped sun-dried tomatoes in the filling and any other pasta sauce. Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, CO

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Key Lime Blondie BarsHeres my tropical take on a beloved treat. These key lime bars combine the taste of the classic pie with a blondie batter and cream cheese frosting. You can make a thicker crust if desired. Kristin LaBoon, Austin, Texas

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Strawberry Pretzel PieThis cool no-bake strawberry pretzel pie is the perfect antidote for your sweet tooth this summer. Made with pantry staples, and well, as easy as pie to make, its become one of my familys most requested warm-weather treats. Shauna Havey, Roy, Utah

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Apples 'n' Cream PancakeThis cozy recipe is delicious for breakfast or brunch. I usually make a double batch because everyone wants more! With our own orchard, we have plenty of Delicious and Winesap applesthey make this a true midwestern meal. Ruth Schafer, Defiance, Ohio

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Apricot SaladColorful gelatin salad adds a spot of brightness to any table. It blends well with this holiday feast. We children didn't know if it should be a salad or dessert, with its smooth texture and delicate flavor.Fae Fisher, Callao, Virginia

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Mini Cherry CheesecakesThese little cheesecakes make a fun dessert that's just right for cooks who don't have a lot of time for fussy recipes. Plus, you get to eat a whole mini cheesecake yourself! Kay Keller, Morenci, Michigan

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Pumpkin Swirl BreadThis combination of pumpkin, nuts and dates makes a delicious, golden pumpkin cream cheese bread. The surprise insidea rich creamy swirlis like a luscious layer of cheesecake in each slice. Cindy May, Troy, Michigan

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Spinach TurnoversThe flaky cream cheese pastry adds sensational texture to these hot appetizersand just wait until you taste the wonderful filling. I usually fix a double batch and freeze some to have on hand in case unexpected guests drop by. Jean von Bereghy, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

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Pineapple Sheet CakeThis sheet cake is perfect for serving to a crowd. It keeps so well that you can easily prepare it a day ahead and it will stay moist. I often bring it to church potlucks, and I have yet to take much of it home. Kim Miller Spiek, Sarasota, Florida

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Duo Tater BakeI made this creamy and comforting potato dish for Thanksgiving and it was a winner with my family. They said to be sure to include it at every holiday dinner. It's a keeper! Joan McCulloch, Abbotsford, British Columbia

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Banana Cake with Cream Cheese FrostingAs a mother of three sons, sweets are a staple in my kitchen! I buy ripe fruit on sale and freeze it to make this cake. My banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a favorite among loved ones at my family picnics and dinners. Bonnie Krause, Irvona, Pennsylvania

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Baked Simple Meatball StroganoffIf you like meatball subs, you'll love this tangy casserole that has all the rich flavor of the popular sandwiches with none of the mess. Italian bread is spread with a cream cheese mixture, then topped with meatballs, spaghetti sauce and cheese. Bravo! Gina Harris, Seneca, South Carolina

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Red Velvet Thumbprint CookiesThese festive sugar-coated red velvet cookies are perfect for Christmas. They're just as delicious as they are beautiful. Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

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Shrimp Appetizer SpreadThere's no secret to this creamy seafood appetizerit's simply delicious! I originally tasted it at a friend's house, and I liked it so much that I requested the recipe. It's since become a family favorite. Brenda Buhler, Abbotsford, British Columbia

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Pecan Pumpkin DessertI always make this treat for Thanksgiving. A friend gave me the recipe, and I've since shared it with many others. Sue Williams, Mount Holly, North Carolina

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Cucumber CanapesI always get requests for the recipe for these canapes whenever I serve them. They're delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread and festive red and green garnishes. Nadine Whittaker, South Plymouth, Massachusetts

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Easy Cheese-Stuffed JalapenosA few years ago, I saw a man in the grocery store buying a big bag full of jalapeno peppers. I asked him what he intended to do with them, and he shared this recipe for stuffed jalapenos with me right there in the store! Janice Montiverdi, Sugar Land, Texas

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Potato ChowderOne of the ladies in our church quilting group brought this savory potato soup to a meeting, and everyone loved how the cream cheese and bacon made it so rich. It's easy to assemble in the morning so it can simmer on its own all day. Anna Mayer, Fort Branch, Indiana. If you like this, then you must try these cream cheese appetizers.

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Red Velvet Jar CakeI love to make these red velvet jar cakes for friends, family and teachers. Red velvet is my favorite during the holidays, but you can use your favorite cake and frosting flavors. Then dress up the jars with homemade labels and ribbons for gifting. Don't forget to tie a spoon to the jar; everyone likes to dig right in! Lillie Collier, Mobile, Alabama

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Spinach-Beef Spaghetti PieWith its angel hair pasta crust, this cheesy ground beef, tomato and spinach pie is always a hit when I serve it. Each neat slice has layers of pasta, cream cheese filling and spinach topping. Carol Hicks Pensacola, Florida

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Fruit-Topped BlintzesMy mother is a wonderful cook who always likes to prepare (and improve on!) dishes she's sampled at restaurants. That's what I did with these blintzes, and my family loves my fruity version even more than the original.

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Puff Pastry Chicken BundlesInside these golden puff pastry "packages", chicken breasts rolled with spinach, herbed cream cheese and walnuts are a savory surprise. I like to serve this elegant entree when we have guests or are celebrating a holiday or special occasion.-Brad Moritz, Limerick, Pennsylvania

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Paddy's Reuben DipThis slow-cooked spread tastes just like the popular Reuben sandwich. Even when I double the recipe, I end up with an empty dish. Mary Jane Kimmes, Hastings, Minnesota

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Cool Strawberry CreamThis fruity, luscious dessert makes a wonderful ending to a special dinner. When fresh strawberries are not available, substitute two packages frozen unsweetened strawberries, thawed and drained, for the fresh. Joyce Cooper, Mount Forest, Ontario

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Pineapple Ham CasseroleLiving in Hawaii, I wanted to share this recipe which features pineapple. It's our most important fruit crop. Marsha Fleming, Kula, Hawaii

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Cherry Cheese WindmillsThese pretty cookies look fancy, but they are really not much work. They're perfect for any occasion. Helen McGibbon, Downers Grove, Illinois

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Creamy Strawberry CrepesTake summer-ripe strawberries plus a creamy filling and tuck them into these delicate strawberry crepes for an elegant brunch entree. Kathy Kochiss, Huntington, Connecticut

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Italian Cream Cheese CakeButtermilk makes every bite of this awesome Italian cream cheese cake recipe moist and flavorful. I rely on this recipe year-round.Joyce Lutz, Centerview, Missouri

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Chicken BurritosThis mouthwatering chicken burrito recipe makes enough for two casseroles, so you can enjoy one today and freeze the other for a busy weeknight. They're super to have on hand for quick meals or to take to potlucks. Sonya Nightingale, Burley, Idaho.

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Broccoli Potato SupremeMy family insists that this two-in-one casserole makes an appearance at all of our special meals. Every bite is doubly delicious! Jane Birch, Edison, New Jersey

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Berry-Cream Cookie SnapsMy mom and I made up this recipe by combining two others. These cute cookies are crispy on the outside and light and fluffy inside. You could also bake the cookies flat and serve the filling as a cookie dip if you like. Crystal Briddick, Colfax, Illinois

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Cheesecake with Berry SauceThis creamy cheesecake is a family tradition; I've even shipped it to my daughter as a special treat. Using frozen seasonal berries, it's an excellent dessert any time of year. Jeanette Volker, Walton, Nebraska

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Creamy Grape SaladEveryone raves when I bring this refreshing, creamy grape salad to potlucks. For a special finishing touch, sprinkle it with brown sugar and pecans. Marge Elling, Jenison, Michigan

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Peanut Butter Pudding DessertHere's a fun layered dessert that will appeal to all ages. If you want it even nuttier, you can use chunky peanut butter, and if you're not a fan of cashews, substitute your favorite nut. This peanut butter lasagna is one of my favorite pudding desserts. Barbara Schindler, Napoleon, Ohio

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Hash Brown Broccoli BakeHere's a perfect dish for a potluck or holiday buffet. It goes well with fish, poultry, pork or beef. Cheddar cheese can be substituted for Swiss. Often, I double the recipe to serve a crowd. Jeanette Volker, Walton, Nebraska

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Creamed CornFive ingredients are all you'll need for my popular creamed corn recipe. It's wonderful no matter what the occasion is. Try it on a barbecue buffet or holiday menu. Barbara Brizendine, Harrisonville, Missouri

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Marshmallow-Almond Key Lime PieSummer is peak season for Key limesa must for this pies distinctive sweet-tart flavor. Unlike other Key lime pies, mine has a smooth marshmallow layer on top. This makes it stand out as a crowd favorite. Judy Castranova, New Bern, North Carolina

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Baked Onion Cheese DipThis cheddar-Vidalia dip gets a nice kick from an added cup of pepper Jack cheese. It's fun to serve with an assortment of crackers and breadsticks. Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

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Contest-Winning Raspberry Cream PieThis recipe is delicious with either fresh-picked or frozen raspberries. That means you can make it year-round. One bite of raspberry pie will instantly turn winter to summer. Julie Price, Nashville, Tennessee

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Pina Colada Fruit DipA taste of the tropics will be welcomed by your holiday guests. The cool and creamy dip can be served as an appetizer or a dessert.Shelly Fisher, Hermiston, Oregon

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Gingerbread Cookies with Lemon FrostingWhen I spread these spicy gingerbread rounds with my lemony cream cheese frosting, I knew I had a hit. Cardamom and allspice add a hint of chai tea flavor. Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho

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Vanilla Bean CupcakesMy son loves these vanilla bean cupcakes! Flecks of vanilla bean in the moist, tender cupcakes give them special-occasion status. Alysha Braun, St. Catharines, Ontario

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Crab & Artichoke DipNearly every time my girlfriends and I get together, we dip into this rich and creamy snack and our favorite bottle of wine. Its so convenient to use the slow cooker to make this recipeits a perfect fit for our relaxed friends nights. Connie McKinney, Marshall, Missouri

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Classic Make-Ahead Mashed PotatoesThese make-ahead mashed potatoes save me a ton of time on Christmas Day. No more frantically whipping the potatoes while hungry family and guests hang around the kitchen! Marty Rummel, Trout Lake, Washington

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Spinach Dip-Stuffed MushroomsI use a melon baller to hollow out the mushroom caps and make them easier to stuff. The apps fit neatly into muffin tins or a deviled egg tray for traveling. Ashley Pierce, Brantford, Ontario

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Lemon-Blueberry Pound CakePair a slice of this moist lemon-blueberry cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's a staple at our family barbecues. Rebecca Little, Park Ridge, Illinois

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Artichoke Phyllo CupsI wanted to create a bite-sized version of rich, creamy artichoke dip. These adorable phyllo cup appetizers were a total success! Neel Patel, Champaign, Illinois

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Cream Cheese SpritzA hint of orange and cinnamon highlights these Christmastime classics. I like to add colorful sprinkles before baking them. The recipe is from a booklet that came with a cookie press in the 1950s...and I still have the press! Sarah Bedia, Lake Jackson, Texas

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Garlic-Herb Bagel SpreadThis creamy spread is loaded with oregano, basil, garlic and feta. The flavorful, savory combination is perfect slathered on a toasted bagel. But dont stop there. Try it as a dip for crunchy breadsticks, too. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Pink Lemonade Stand CakeIf you love a moist and creamy cake, this ones for you. The lemon juice and lemonade give the layers a tangy, citrusy touch, and the cream cheese frosting with sprinkles makes it extra pretty. Lauren Knoelke, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Carrot Cake with Pecan FrostingMy husband constantly requests this homey, old-fashioned version of carrot cake. The frosting is still tasty even without the pecans. Adrian Badon, Denham Springs, Louisiana

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Mediterranean Pastry PinwheelsThese quick appetizers are irresistible. The flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto balance beautifully. Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York

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Pineapple Upside-Down CheesecakeMy mom often made pineapple upside down cake, but I prefer something creamier. This recipe looks just like her cake, but gets even tastier as pineapple upside down cheesecake. Marilyn McGinnis, Citrus Heights, California

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Fontina Rolled ChickenGood food has a way of transporting you to faraway places. My chicken with fontina and cream cheese is like a blissful trip to Italy. Tammy Rex, New Tripoli, Pennsylvania

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Cranberry Cream Cheese French ToastMy friend makes this French toast bake with blueberries, but I make mine with cranberry sauce. Either way, its divine. It makes a great brunch dish for Christmas morning. Sandie Heindel, Liberty, Missouri

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Heirloom Tomato PieMy green-thumbed neighbors like to share produce with me. I return the delicious favor by baking tomato pies for all. Angela Benedict, Dunbar, West Virginia

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Creamy Taco DipYou'll know this snack is a hit at your next gathering when you come home with an empty pan! Denise Smith, Lusk, Wyoming

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Creme de Menthe SquaresThis layered bar hits all the sweet spots: Its airy, creamy, crunchy and the perfect mix of cool mint and rich chocolate. It has a vintage dessert appeal that no one in our family can resist. Marilyn Blankschien, Clintonville, Wisconsin

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Cool and Creamy Fruit SaladMy mom found this recipe in a magazine 25 years ago, and my family has been enjoying it ever since. I refrigerate it overnight before serving. It looks especially pretty in a trifle dish. Susan Schiller, Tomahawk, Wisconsin

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Parmesan Creamed SpinachThis rich and creamy spinach dish takes minutes to make. If I'm expecting guests, I'll double or triple the recipe. Leann Ross, San Tan Valley, Arizona

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Bagel with a Veggie SchmearI got this recipe from my favorite bagel shop in New York City. Now I make this every time I'm craving a quick and healthy breakfast. I like to add chopped pitted green olives to the schmear. Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington

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Rhubarb and Strawberry Coffee CakeVanilla cake with cream cheese filling and strawberry rhubarb sauce make a grand finale for a Mothers Day brunch. I made this to honor our moms and grandmothers. Danielle Ulam, Hookstown, Pennsylvania

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Star-Spangled Lemon Icebox PieWith a little chill time, my no-bake lemon pie turns into a potluck superstar. My kids like to arrange the berries in a patriotic pattern. Lauren Katz, Ashburn, Virginia

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Dilly Cheese BallMy whole family devours this herby cheese spreadeven my son, the chef. Serve it with your favorite crackers. Jane Vince, London, Ontario

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Appetizer Tortilla PinwheelsA friend gave me this recipe, and whenever I serve these tortilla pinwheel sandwiches, people ask me for the recipe, too! The cream cheese pinwheels can be made ahead of time and sliced just before serving, leaving you time for other last-minute party preparations. Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio

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Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

My daughter has the best sour cream and cream cheese chicken enchiladas recipe I’ve ever tried. She brought 10 pans of it to my wedding reception and they were the biggest hit of all the food. So many guests wanted the recipe, we sent it out with our Christmas cards. Pat Coffee, Kingston, Washington

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Lemon-Pepper Tilapia with Mushrooms

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What can I add to popcorn for flavor?

Making homemade popcorn is cheaper and healthier than buying store-bought popcorn, but it can fall flat without any flavoring. Use one of our flavored popcorn recipes to jazz up your favorite movie night snack. Or for an even easier option, try these simple popcorn topping ideas:

• Garlic powder or garlic salt
• Dried parsley and grated Parmesan
• Nutritional yeast, which is a healthybut still flavorfulalternative to cheese

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One-Bowl Chocolate Chip Bread

My family hops out of bed on Valentines Day because they know Im baking this quick bread for breakfast. Theyre major chocoholics and it always hits the spot. Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas

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When it comes to cream, Im whipped. Lofty swirls of rich, billowy cream adorning strawberry shortcake, pumpkin pie or fruit cobbler satisfy that creamy sweet fix I can’t live without.

Most cooks agree homemade whipped cream is better than any store-bought version in a can or tub. But if you dont own an electric mixer or immersion blender, or dont feel like lugging one of these appliances out of the cupboard on a busy weeknight, try the shake method. With a canning jar and two basic ingredientsheavy cream and confectioners sugaryou can quickly shake your way to a cloud of fluffy whipped topping thats perfect for dolloping on slices of pies, cups of pudding and other family-favorite desserts.

How to Make Whipped Cream in a Jar

What You’ll Need

• A half pint or pint size canning jar with lid
• 1/2 to 1 cup cold heavy cream
• 2 Tbsp. confectioners’ sugar (add more or less as desired)

Directions

Step 1: Make Sure Everything is Cold

About 15 minutes before you prepare the whipped topping, place your canning jar, including the lid, in the freezer. A cold jar will help the liquid cream convert into stiff peaks faster. Its equally important your cream is cold. The colder your cream, the more voluptuous it will be once whipped, so be sure to use chilled cream straight from the fridge.

Test Kitchen tip: Different brands of cream vary slightly in fat content. We recommend using those labeled heavy cream and that contain the most grams of fat per serving, ideally 36%-40% fat. The higher the fat content, the more easily the cream converts from liquid to peaks, and the longer it stays whipped without deflating. If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, try one using a heavy cream substitute.

Step 2: Shake Away!

Fill the jar about halfway with the cream (don’t overfill; you want to leave space for the cream to expand). Add confectioners sugar. Screw the lid on tight. Vigorously shake the jar for approximately 5-7 minutes.

Youll know the cream is starting to thicken when the texture becomes soft and billowy and you no longer hear it splashing against the sides of the jar. Continue shaking until the cream reaches your desired consistency.

The cream should be just thick enough to hold its shape in soft billows without weeping or drooping. Dollop the cream on individual dessert servings or use the back of a spoon and a light touch to create pretty peaks and valleys on top of a whole pie or tart.

Test Kitchen tip: Just like when making whipped cream with a hand whisk or an electric mixer, be sure not to shake too long. Cream can go from smooth and creamy to broken and grainy quickly. If that happens, simply add a little more liquid cream and shake just long enough for the texture to become smooth and thick again.

What to Do with Whipped Cream

Whipped cream is great for enhancing quick-to-fix treats and impressive desserts alike. Add a generous spoonful to pies, tarts, ice cream novelties, cheesecakes, custard, pudding, mousse and other sweet indulgences begging for a dollop. It also makes a fun garnish for coffee shop drinks, hot cocoa, crepes, pancakes and waffles.

Some folks prefer whipped cream in its most basic formjust slightly sweetened with a little sugar. But if you want to take the flavor up a notch, enhance your cream with other flavors or add-ins. Measurements depend on the amount of cream in your jar. We recommend starting with just a little and adding more to suit your tastes.

• Extracts such as vanilla, almond or cherry
• Caramel
• Honey
• Maple Syrup
• Ground ginger or cinnamon
• Mini chocolate chips
• Fine instant coffee powder
• Sifted unsweetened cocoa powder
• Liqueur such as Kahlua, amaretto, crme de cacao or Irish cream (mix liqueurs in after shaking for best results)

How to Store Whipped Cream

Any leftover whipped cream can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Leave it in the original jar you used for shaking (with the lid screwed on) or transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

Added Benefits

Not only is the shake method easy and fun, its more affordable and eco-friendly than purchasing store-bought whipped topping in an aerosol can or a plastic tub. The small cardboard container can be rinsed and recycled, and since you only have to wash a single canning jar, cleanup is a breeze! Don’t have the whipped topping? Here, find out if you can substitute it with whipped cream.

Kids love to shake stuff, so dont be shy in asking little ones to join in on the fun. Shaking a jar is a fun way to keep them occupied while you finish preparing dinner and will keep their mind off their grumbling tummies. Just be sure the lid is secure and demonstrate the process so they do it safely.

For more advice on creating the perfect whipped cream from scratch, check out these tips from our Test Kitchen pros. Youll soon be on your way to creating thick, rich homemade cream with all the sigh-inducing sweetness and silkiness you know and lovein no time flat!

Up Next: 34 Recipes That Use Up Extra Heavy Whipping Cream

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Kulfi

(Check out these other Indian dessert recipes!)

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Easy as Pie

by Saura Madani

In her signature friendly and approachable style, Saura Madani lets you in on her unbelievably easy secrets for creating a pie that will turn any occasion into a memorable event. Perfect for beginner and seasoned bakers alike, Easy as Pie kicks off with a primer on crusts and then leads you on a delicious walk through all the glorious seasons with pies for spring, summer, fall and winter, as well as those that can be enjoyed any time of year. Baking fundamentals, troubleshooting advice, must-have tools, pantry staples, striking color photography and ingenious tips for creative garnishes and toppings round out this must-have pie compendium. For more easy recipes that boast the sweet taste of summer, check out these seasonal all-stars.

Notable recipe: Raspberry-Peach Streusel Pie is a sweet slice of summer baked into a tender flaky crust.

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Favorite Barbecued Chicken

What better place to find a fantastic barbecue chicken than Texas, and thats where this one is fromits my father-in-laws own recipe. Weve served it at many family reunions and think its the best! Bobbie Morgan, Woodstock, Georgia

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Strawberry Crumble Pie

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Incredible Coconut Cake

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Cast-Iron Skillet Steak

If youve never cooked steak at home before, it can be a little intimidating. Thats why I came up with this simple steak recipe thats so easy, you could make it any day of the week. James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

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The Best Ever Lasagna

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Rustic Italian Tortellini Soup

This is my favorite tortellini soup recipe. It’s quick to fix on a busy night and full of healthy, tasty ingredients. It originally called for spicy sausage links, but I’ve found that turkey sausage, or even ground turkey breast, is just as good. Tracy Fasnacht, Irwin, Pennsylvania

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Great-Grandmas Italian Meatballs

My great-grandmother started this easy meatball recipe with our family. We use ground beef and turkey for these meatballs, and the flavors so good, you wont miss the extra calories. Audrey Colantino, Winchester, Massachusetts

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Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese

What could be more comforting (or easy!) than a slow cooker mac and cheese? Nothing! This classic casserole is a rich and cheesy meatless main dish, and I’ve never met anyone who didn’t ask for second helpings of the cheesy dish. Bernice Glascoe, Roxboro, North Carolina

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Swiss Mushroom Chicken

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Sweet Tea Barbecued Chicken

Marinades sometimes use coffee or espresso, and that inspired me to try tea and apple juice to perk up this sauce. Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey

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The post 30 Game-Changing Twists on Your Favorite Grilled Meats appeared first on Taste of Home.

Chorizo & Grits Breakfast Bowls

While growing up, I bonded with my dad over chorizo and eggs. My fresh approach combines them with grits and black beans for this chorizo breakfast bowl. You can even add a spoonful of pico de gallo. Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California

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Garlic Chicken Rigatoni

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Cran-Apple Pecan Crisp

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Inspired by: Burritos

Back when I was in college, my roommate would frequently make this economical baked burrito casserole. It’s so easy to put together, and one serving goes a long way. Cindee Ness, Horace, North Dakota

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Potluck Cordon Bleu Casserole

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Childhood Classic: Pizza

This smoky grilled pizza scores big with me for two reasons: It encourages my husband and son to eat greens, and it showcases fresh produce. Sarah Gray, Erie, Colorado

Grown-Up Recipe: Smoky Grilled Pizza with Greens & Tomatoes

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Standing Rib Roast

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