Honest and Truly

Hey Reader, Halloween is such a fun holiday to celebrate, and of course that includes the treats and sweets. Every year, I make new ones for my kids, but I have a few they ask for year after year. I love these easy recipes that get a few “Wow, did you make that?” reactions. These four are my go-to treats that vanish faster than you can say “trick or treat.” Monster-Worthy Treats You Can’t Resist Bright chocolate and silly faces make Monster Cake Pops always the first to vanish. With brownies...

Hey Reader, Cooking on a budget doesn’t have to be stressful, especially when the meals are simple, tasty, and filling. It makes me happy to know I can have a delicious dinner on the table without spending a fortune or standing in the kitchen for hours. When I need a quick weeknight meal, when friends stop by, or even if I just… want something satisfying for myself, these are my go-to dishes. They're easy, affordable, and they always hit the spot. Four Budget-Friendly Recipes to Try Tonight A...

Hey Reader, Have you had to turn on your heat yet? I'm holding out, but it's really close here. I love cozying up with a big bowl of soup as the weather cools off, and it's so easy to throw together something hearty and satisfying in no time (and it often tastes better than I expect!). If you’re looking for soups that are both comforting and full of flavor, you’re in luck. These four are the ones my family keeps asking for again and again. Soups I Savor When the Weather Turns Crisp Tender...

Hey Reader, Nothing makes a tailgate better than a table full of snacks no one can stop nibbling on. The right apps keep your friends fueled and happy between plays while making your spread the one everyone remembers. (But you know you can make these anytime, right? And appetizers for dinner is totally legit in my book.) I have so many favorites that are easy to prep but look like I spent a ton of time and effort making. These four are ones I bring when I want my table to be the game day...

Hey Reader, Cookies are always a reason to smile, especially when they’re soft, chewy, and full of flavor. It just makes me happy to have the smell of fresh-baked cookies in my kitchen - and of course, enjoy them fresh from the oven. These are the ones I make every time my kids ask me to mail them cookies or my friends need a dessert. Or if I just... need something sweet for myself. Four Cookie Favorites to Bake Right Now! Chocolate and espresso are the perfect pairing for pure indulgence....

Hey Reader, There’s nothing better than arriving at a tailgate (or sitting in front of the tv at home) with a table full of apps you can't wait to devour. It's just one reason fall is my favorite time of year. When it’s my turn to bring something, I go for something simple that gets me a few “Wait, you made that?” reactions. Try these fan favorites to make your tailgate table the one everyone circles back to. Game Day Recipes Everyone Reaches For Everyone reaches for this Non-Traditional 7...

Hey Reader, I love to go apple picking, but even when I don't have time, my grocery store suddenly has ALL the varieties of apples for me to buy and try - and they're usually on sale, too! If you're like me and ready to enjoy all the fun flavors of fall and indulge in a few (or more than a few) apple treats, I'm here for you. These four are my family's faves. Sweet Apple Treats to Savor This Fall These Apple Pie Parfaits layer tender apples with creamy, sweet goodness for all the flavor of a...

Hey Reader, If pumpkin spice gets you excited every fall, you’re not alone. I love seeing shelves full of pumpkin treats (but not PSL-flavored everything) and knowing it’s finally the season for cozy flavors, warm drinks, and baked goods that make my house smell amazing. When it’s time to bring pumpkin to the table, I want desserts that are simple to make, easy to share, and still earn a few “Wow, you made this?” reactions. These pumpkin recipes hit all the right notes. Cozy Pumpkin Treats to...

Hey Reader, If you've ever planned what you're eating based on the dessert options, you're not alone. I love going to friends' houses and seeing a mix of homemade sweets like bars, cookies, and cakes where I know I want "just a taste" of all of them. When it's my turn to bring dessert, I always want something that’s easy to slice, simple to share, and still gets a few “Wait, you made that?” reactions. These potluck-ready desserts check ALL the boxes. Sweet Treats That Steal the Spotlight If...

Hey Reader, Labor Day always sneaks up on me, especially this year since it's September 1, but I never let it pass without one last great backyard cookout. It’s the perfect excuse to fire up the grill, throw on something smoky, and enjoy a plate (or three) of something homemade. I like to keep things low-effort but high-reward with easy grilled meats, big batch sides, and a couple of sweets that travel well and taste even better the next day. These four recipes hit all the marks. Celebrate...