Name: Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1 1/2 cups brown sugar; 3 1/2 Tbsp cinnamon; 1/8 tsp salt; 1 egg white; 2 1/2 tsp vanilla; 3 cups almonds; 1/4 cup water

BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON December 17, 2021 // Leave a Comment

BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp are a simple appetizer recipe that works for any holiday gathering! With only a few simple ingredients, you get a sticky delicious glaze with savory bacon and tender shrimp. They are ready in less than 30 minutes! Serves 8 to 10.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Head Country Bar-B-Q. As always, all opinions are my own.

I always love a killer appetizer this time of year.

Whether I am hosting or bringing something to a party, I like something that is a total flavor bomb without taking me hours to make. I’m sure a lot of you are on the same page with me there, am I right?

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Back at it with one more Thanksgiving leftovers recipe this week!

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I don’t always hop on festive trends for Halloween, but the mummy poppers trend is one that I have been loving!

The first time I made them was working with a client, and they were just too adorable to pass up for background in the Halloween cocktail images I was working on.
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There’s a new kind of cacio e pepe in town… and it’s WINGS.

And you know this gal can get down on a big ol’ plate of wings!

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It is FINALLY officially fall! That means it’s officially totally acceptable to share all the pumpkin recipes, right?

I have to say we have had two straight days with temps under 80 degrees and I am in heaven.

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Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Head Country Bar-B-Q. As always, all opinions are my own.

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POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 20, 2021 // Leave a Comment

Bourbon Peach Grilled BBQ Wings are full of tangy and sweet flavor, with just a hint of heat. Using my favorite bourbon peach BBQ sauce recipe, these wings are sticky and delicious. Serves 4 to 6.

Who doesn’t love a big ol’ pile of sweet and sticky grilled BBQ wings this time of year?

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Bacon Aioli

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Bacon Aioli is a creamy, flavorful spread that you can use on burgers, sandwiches, or as a dip for fries. The crispy bacon with the tart, creamy sauce makes this easy recipe the best accompaniment! Makes 3/4 cup.

Oh yes you read that right. BACON AIOLI.

It was my first day in London and after an 8 hour flight, 45 minute ride on the underground, and dragging luggage up several flights of stairs, I was starving. As soon as I walked passed Gourmet Burger Kitchen in South Kensington, I knew I was going to chow down on a massive burger that night. That’s where I saw it, in between choosing what kind of fries I wanted, there it was – bacon aioli. [Read more…]

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POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON June 1, 2021 // Leave a Comment

This post has been sponsored by Gallo Salame, Inc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON December 21, 2020 // 4 Comments

Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds are the holiday snack everyone craves, all made in your slow cooker. The sweet spiced nuts make for a fantastic snack to set out for gatherings, or package them up to gift to friends and family. Makes 3 cups.

Note: this is an updated version of the original posted on December 21, 2012. The post now contains more information about the recipe, tips and tricks, and a slightly tweaked recipe that’s even better than before!

about these crockpot cinnamon almonds

These are dangerous. So dangerous I thought it was only fitting to share them with you on the day the world is supposed to end…

I used to think I could only get these ridiculously addictive almonds at festivals (you know, when they come in the huge cone, all warm and fresh, and you end up devouring the whole thing before you make ten feet).

Now, I can make them at home. I am so screwed. These slow cooker cinnamon almonds are officially my new addiction.

You may think I am insane for saying this but it really is a good thing I have to go to work every day. If I was at home, I would be destroying batch after batch after batch…

The recipe prep time here is super fast, and the almonds just need a little tending to as they cook (they need to be stirred throughout the cooking time). The smell that your house will be filled with is the ultimate reward, aside from the almonds themselves!

ingredients

sugar. this crockpot cinnamon almonds recipe calls for a combination of granulated and brown sugar. I recommend using light brown sugar, but if all you have is dark brown sugar, that will work too.

cinnamon. use your favorite brand of ground cinnamon for the recipe.

salt. I use fine kosher salt for this recipe (and all my holiday baking!).

egg. you will need one large egg white for this recipe.

vanilla. always reach for the pure vanilla extract! My favorite is Nielsen Massey – their Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract is fantastic. Homemade is even better!

almonds. make sure that you use whole almonds for this recipe, not sliced, halved, or slivers. They should be raw almonds and unsalted – the salted almonds will throw off the overall flavor!

water. tap water is just fine for this recipe!

Overhead image of crockpot cinnamon almonds

this recipe’s must-haves

First of all, you will need a slow cooker, crockpot, or Instant Pot Ultra to cook the candied almonds in. I personally am a BIG Instant Pot fan, if you are looking to pick up a new appliance this year.

You will also need a set of mixing bowls and wooden spoon to stir together everything, as well as continue to stir as it all cooks together.

Finally, you’ll need a half sheet baking pan or two to spread the nuts onto to cool. I like to line mine with a silicone mat, but you can also use parchment paper if you prefer.

here’s how to make crockpot cinnamon almonds!

prepare nuts

To start you need to coat the almonds with the sugars, spices, and egg white/vanilla. This is done by stirring together the egg white and vanilla until it is nice and frothy. The nuts are coated in this mixture, then coated with a mixture of granulated and brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

slow cook

Before you start cooking, be sure to spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This will help a LOT to make sure nothing sticks as it cooks. Cook the almonds on Low for 3 hours, stirring the nuts well every half hour.

In the last hour, you add a bit of water and this helps bring it all together as it cooks the final hour.

cool

Spread the nuts out well on a lined baking sheet. The key is to separate the nuts so they don’t form giant clumps. Use a couple of sheet pans if you have to!

tips for success

use another nut. Shake things up and use another kind of nut with this crock pot recipe! You can use pecans, walnuts, or even cashews.

cool them completely. The trick is to let them completely cool before adding them to a bag. By letting them cool, they will stay nice and crunching!

make sure you stir. Don’t skip the stirring steps in this recipe! It’s what helps them from becoming a giant glob that’s basically inedible.

More festive holiday sweets to try: Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Christmas Shortbread Cookies | Italian Rainbow Cookies

why do I have to use egg white in this recipe?

Egg white is one of the binders in this recipe that helps create that fine crunchy coating we all love.

can I swap something out for the egg white?

If you don’t eat eggs, you can swap out the egg white for aquafaba (chick pea juice)! For 1 egg white, you will need to use 3 Tablespoons aquafaba.

Need more inspiration for holiday cooking/baking? Check out my holiday recipes page!

what to serve with crockpot cinnamon almonds

These slow cooker cinnamon almonds are fantastic as a snack, an addition to your dessert spread, or even as an add-on for a charcuterie board. I tend to just put bowls of them out whenever I have people over, or I will add them to mason jars that are strategically placed around the house for whenever the craving strikes!

If you want to put out another snack mix that’s savory, I love this curried nut mix. It’s different from other snack mixes you typically see this time of year, so I think it stands out a bit more.

how to store crockpot cinnamon almonds

Store. Once they’ve cooled completely, store them in airtight containers or bags in a cool dry place. They will last up to 1 1/2 weeks.

Gifting! These slow cooker cinnamon almonds are a fantastic gift! Pack them up in bags or mason jars to give as gifts to friends and family. I really like to add them to mason jars and simply tie a ribbon around the rim for a festive touch. They also make a really easy host gift idea!

Freeze. These almonds are fantastic for freezing too! Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months! Thaw to room temperature before enjoying.

how else can I use these cinnamon almonds?

The options are endless! Here are some of my favorites that don’t involve just shoveling them into my face by the handful:

on salads (whole or chopped up!)
use them as a topping for overnight oats or yogurt for breakfast
add them to your favorite ice cream recipe or just sprinkle them on top of your favorite store-bought ice cream.
chop them up and sprinkle over roasted carrots or beets

Finally, if you make these crockpot cinnamon almonds, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! Love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds

Yield: 3 cups

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

These almonds are an amazing snack to bust out during parties!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
3 1/2 Tbsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp salt
1 egg white
2 1/2 tsp vanilla
3 cups almonds
1/4 cup water

Instructions

Stir together sugars, cinnamon and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg white and vanilla until frothy. Add almonds and stir until the nuts are coated. Add cinnamon mixture to the nuts and toss until coated.
Spray the interior of your crock pot bowl with cooking spray. Add the almond mixture to the crock pot and turn to low.
Cook covered 3 hours, stirring every half hour. In the last hour, add water and stir well.
Dump out the almonds onto a lined baking sheet to cool. Be sure to separate the nuts so they don't form huge clumps. When cool, serve or store in airtight container for up to 1 1/2 weeks.

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Christmas Cranberry Cobbler

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON December 4, 2020 // 25 Comments

Please note this post contains affiliate links.

Christmas Cranberry Cobbler is a great dessert on Christmas Eve that tastes even better leftover on Christmas morning. The sugared cranberries on top give this cobbler a sweet and tart flavor, plus the crystalized sugar that forms after baking gives it just the right amount of texture.

Overhead photo of christmas breakfast in skillet

about this christmas cranberry cobbler

Who called for crumbly, golden, cranberry goodness? Oh yea, I guess that was me…

I am SO excited for the holidays and this new dish is just the best thing since sliced crusty bread in my book.

It’s the lazy girl’s guide to happiness, in dessert form really. This Christmas cranberry cobbler is a direct result of an incredible lazy streak when it comes to cooking for anything outside of the wedding I’m catering tomorrow.

I may seem like I’m cool on the surface, but if you could get inside my head, it’s a total mess.

Instead of attempting to make a complicated Christmas cake (it really was on my list this year, but I couldn’t make it happen), I opted for a simple dessert that also doubles as breakfast (presently eating a slice as we speak…). As much as I love the idea of making a layered stunning cake, I know my limitations.

I am not a master cake artist. I accept this. It’s ok that I can’t do everything. Woo saaaa… (anyone get the Bad Boys II reference right there? LOL)

This cobbler for breakfast, mimosas, pjs, presents, card games and endless puppy snuggles (or as many as she’ll allow me…).

Oh and screaming “SANTA!” at the top of my lungs as I open the gifts from Santa that’ll inevitably show up under the Christmas tree. Did I mention he and I are besties?

Holiday dessert slice with cranberries on a plate image

ingredients

cranberries. I highly recommend using fresh cranberries! It’s the best way to get the best flavor in this cake. If you need to use frozen, that is doable, but be sure to drain the thawed cranberries before you use them in this recipe.

sugar. all you need is granulated sugar for this recipe.

flour. I used all-purpose flour in this recipe. You can also use a gluten-free 1:1 substitute if you would like.

baking powder. the leavener you need for this recipe is baking powder!

cinnamon. you can use your favorite ground cinnamon here!

salt. all you need is kosher salt, finely ground. Do not use coarse salt.

butter. unsalted butter is used in this recipe, but you can also use salted butter. If you use salted butter, be sure to omit the added salt in the recipe list for the cobbler.

milk. use whole milk for this recipe. 2% milk will also work.

eggs. make sure that you select large eggs!

vanilla. I recommend using a high-quality vanilla extract for all your recipes. My favorite is Nielsen Massey – their Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract is amazing.

Cranberry cobbler slice on a plate image

this recipe’s must-haves

I baked my cobbler in a lodge cast iron skillet and it came out absolutely perfect. You don’t need a baking dish for this recipe!

If you don’t have a set of metal mixing bowls, you need to invest in them. They come in handy every single day.

Another everyday must for my kitchen is a wooden spoon!

baking favorites

9-inch springform pan

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cupcake pan

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3 quart baking dish

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here’s how to make christmas cranberry cobbler

prep cranberries

Toss cranberries and 1/4 cup sugar together in a small bowl. Set aside.

make batter

Start by whisking together dry ingredients in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Add the wet mixture to the flour mixture and stir to combine.

Scrape batter into a cast iron skillet that’s been buttered. Scatter the sugar-coated cranberries on top of the batter evenly.

bake

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350˚F, until golden brown on the edges. Serve warm or cool to room temperature before serving.

Slice of cobbler in a skillet plate image

tips for success

serve at room temp. I know it’s hard to resist eating this cranberry cobbler immediately out of the pan when it comes out the oven… But I swear that this christmas cobbler is absolutely divine at room temperature. That’s why I love making it for dessert on Christmas Eve and serving leftovers in the morning as breakfast!

use fresh cranberries. If you can, use fresh cranberries! You can use frozen, but be sure to thaw and drain them first.

love cranberry orange? Add some freshly grated orange zest to the batter to add a little orange flavor to the mix!

More tasty Christmas baking recipes to try: Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Christmas Shortbread Cookies | Panettone Bread Pudding

Overhead photo of cobbler slices on plates

do you have to cook cranberries before baking?

No, you don’t have to cook cranberries before baking. The cranberries cook with the batter so they are still plump and flavorful!

do you thaw frozen cranberries before baking?

If you are using frozen cranberries, yes, you need to thaw them first. I always recommend draining them as well, because the extra liquid can throw off the balance of the cobbler.

Need more holiday recipe inspiration? Check out my holiday recipes page!

what to serve with christmas cranberry cobbler

When I’m eating this cranberry cobbler, I don’t have to pair it with much! If it’s for dessert, a nice cup of coffee or an espresso is ideal. It’s the perfect treat for November or December!

Want to make it extra special? Serve this à la mode!

For breakfast, a chilled glass of champagne or mimosa or coffee is a go-to.

Need a cocktail to pair with this for dessert or brunch? This cranberry spice sparkler is the ideal pairing!

how to store and reheat

Store. Store this cranberry cobbler in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.

Reheat. To reheat, I simply place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and reheat for 15 to 30 seconds until warmed through. You can also just let it come to room temp before eating!

Finally, if you make this Christmas cranberry cobbler, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!