Whenever winter sets in, I turn to Rick Martinez’s Cuban-style black beans. Made with dried beans, aromatics, and zero soaking, they simmer into something deeply creamy and comforting. Effortless, pantry-friendly, and endlessly versatile, they’re just as good in breakfast burritos as straight from the fridge.
For my December 10 Years of SBIF challenge, I finally tackled Claire Saffitz’s Pistachio Macarons. The shells were finicky, hollow, and humbling – but the pistachio buttercream was silky, nutty perfection. Not every bake needs to be flawless to be worth making (or eating).
Inspired by a New Zealand coconut chocolate bar, this festive holiday bark combines creamy milk chocolate, toasted coconut, pistachios, flaky sea salt, and tart freeze-dried raspberries. It’s crunchy, sweet, salty, and bright all at once. An easy, make-ahead treat that’s perfect for gifting, entertaining, or sneaking straight from the fridge.
If you need inspiration for your holiday cookie tin or Santa’s plate, this roundup features my all-time favorite Ina Garten cookie and candy recipes. From warm, spiced classics like Spicy Hermit Bars to no-bake English Chocolate Crisps, elegant chocolate bark, and plenty of buttery shortbread, these treats are festive, easy, and irresistible.
If I ever cheat on my mom’s meatloaf, it’s with Ina Garten’s legendary 1770 House Meatloaf. A rich blend of beef, veal, and pork meets fresh herbs and the most luxurious garlic sauce imaginable. It’s nostalgic, indulgent, and undeniably elegant—classic comfort food with Barefoot Contessa energy.
These perfectly spiced molasses cookies with crisp edges and soft centers, paired with a light lemon buttercream are a new take on my grandma’s recipe. These holiday cookie sandwiches balance warm spices and bright citrus for an unforgettable seasonal treat.
This Thanksgiving, I finally traded my go-to dry brine for Samin Nosrat’s buttermilk-brined turkey. With crisp, deeply golden skin and incredibly juicy meat, this three-ingredient method delivers a foolproof, flavor-packed bird that’s perfect for Friendsgiving or your holiday table.
Brussels Sprouts in Saor is a Venetian-inspired sweet and sour side layered with sauteedonions, pine nuts, wine-soaked raisins, vinegar, and lemon. It’s a make-ahead dish that delivers acid, richness, and brightness to your Friendsgiving or holiday table.
Welcome! After spending 7 years teaching myself to cook by working through all 1,300+ of Ina Garten's recipes - Julie & Julia style - you've found the place where I share my latest kitchen adventures.