Rachel

Name: Sausage Corn Dog Bites
Prep time: 3 h 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 boxes of jiffy cornbread mix; 2 eggs; 1 cup of milk; 1 - 13 ounce package of sausage: andouille or kielbasa

Easy Sausage Corn Dog Bites

November 7, 2023 by Rachel Leave a Comment

Well it’s officially Fall. And our schedules aren’t any less busy than they were a few months ago. Heck, at this point, I am certain our schedules will never be less busy. Well, not at least until these kiddos are grown. So for now we will do all of the easy meals. These easy sausage corn dog bites check all of the boxes for our busy (and picky!) family.

Why use an air fryer?

The two greatest culinary inventions (well, at least for busy parents) are the Instant Pot and the air fryer. I know some folks will disagree and say that the crockpot or slow cooker reigns supreme, but a slow cooker can’t make dinner in minutes. And that’s why these two cooking gadgets win the prize.

Time is a hot commodity for everyone. I would argue that it’s especially true for parents. Between working, school work, extracurriculars, and whatever else families have going on, they need dinner as quickly as possible.

What you’ll need

My alternate title to this recipe would be “Four Ingredient Kid-Friendly Dinner.” This super easy, super delicious recipe consists of four simple ingredients. All you’ll need is the following:

2 boxes of jiffy cornbread mix
2 eggs
1 cup of milk
1 – 13 ounce package of sausage: andouille or kielbasa

That’s it. Easy peasy. And truly an ‘in-a-pinch’ recipe you can throw together on a busy weeknight.

Easy Sausage Corn Dog Bites Recipe

Yield: 12

Sausage Corn Dog Bites

Prep Time 3 hours 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 boxes of jiffy cornbread mix
2 eggs
1 cup of milk
1 - 13 ounce package of sausage: andouille or kielbasa

Instructions

INGREDIENTS -

In a mixing bowl, add the jiffy mix, eggs, and milk. Mix well until the batter is smooth.

While the box mix lists 1/3 cup milk per box, I like to add a little extra as it creates a less dense result.
Slice the sausage into 1” pieces.
Place each sausage piece into a cupcake liner.
Pour cornbread mix into the liner until sausage is just barely covered.
Place liners in air fryer basket and cook at 325°f for 10 minutes.
Remove and let cool before serving.
ENJOY!

If you’re looking for more easy recipes, head to my “easy recipes” tab. Kid-approved, mom on a time crunch friendly, and ALL are delicious.

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Caramel Apple Air Fryer Dessert Pizza

September 12, 2023 by Rachel Leave a Comment

Summer has flown by. Before we know it, Autumn will be here. Truthfully, Autumn has always been my favorite season. I love the crisp air, the turning leaves, and most of all, the delicious apple foods! But this caramel apple air fryer dessert pizza is perfect for any season. It’s crispy, gooey, and oh-so-flavorful!

Why the air fryer?

As someone who creates a lot of Instant Pot and air fryer meals, I get this question a lot. Honestly, both of these kitchen gadgets have been a game changer for me. Not only are they easy to use, but they create less mess, and a faster cook time. And I know busy parents can relate to that! These gadgets are truly a lifesaver. And that’s why I use the air fryer for this recipe.

What you’ll need

Listen, this recipe is lengthy. Both as far as ingredients and steps. But I need to tell you — give it a shot. It’s much, much easier than you would expect. With homemade pizza crust, you’ll need the following ingredients:

warm water
sugar
dry yeast
all-purpose flour
olive oil
salt
cornmeal

The pizza dough crust ingredients are so simple. The caramelized apples and cream cheese frosting are even more simple. Here’s what else you’ll need to have on hand:

salted butter
brown sugar
water
2 large apples
ground cinnamon
cream cheese
powdered sugar
vanilla

Pro tip: The apples you get should be of the tart variety. Tart apple varieties include Pink Lady, McIntosh, and Cortland apples!

Caramel Apple Air Fryer Dessert Pizza Recipe

Yield: 4

Caramel Apple Air Fryer Dessert Pizza

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Additional Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 43 minutes

Ingredients

Pizza Dough

1 ½ cups of warm water (110 degrees F)
2 teaspoons of sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons of dry yeast
3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 teaspoons of salt
1/2 cup of cornmeal

Caramelized Apples

2 tablespoons of salted butter
⅓ cup of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of water
2 large apples
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Pizza Assembly

Caramelized apples
3 tablespoons of butter softened
1/4 cup of brown sugar

Cream Cheese Frosting

4 ounces of cream cheese softened
6 tablespoons of butter, softened
1 cup of powdered sugar
2 teaspoons of vanilla

Instructions

Ingredients:

Pizza Dough

In a large bowl, add your warm water and yeast. Stir and mix. Allow your yeast to proof for about five minutes.
After five minutes, add in your sugar, flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about five minutes on medium speed. If using your hands, transfer the dough ball to a lightly floured flat surface and knead for about 10 minutes.
Transfer your dough ball to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel for 1 hour, or until it's doubled in size.

Caramelizing Onions

Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
In a medium saucepan melt the butter over medium high heat.
When the butter is melted, add the sugar, water, and apples. Stir and cook until the sugar is melted. 3 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium-low and consistently stir while cooking for 8 minutes.
Add the cinnamon and cook/stir for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and let cool for 20 minutes. Place in a jar and cool for 1 hour.

Pizza Assembly

Preheat your air fryer to 380°
Once your dough has doubled in size, remove your dough ball to a lightly floured surface.
Divide your ball into 4 sections.
Roll your dough using a rolling pin until it is 8 inches in diameter.
Dust the air fryer pan with the cornmeal and transfer your pizza dough to your pan. Press to flatten down on the bottom of the pan.
Once your air fryer is heated, cook your dough for 4 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, add and mix the caramelized apples, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar.
Remove the cooked dough and then top it with 1/4 of the caramel apple sauce from the mixing bowl. Cook for another 4 minutes.
Repeat the steps for each pizza.
While the pizza is cooking, add the frosting ingredients to a bowl and mix to combine.
Once the pizza is cooked and cooled, pipe or drizzle the frosting onto the pizzas.
Serve and enjoy! Use any extra frosting as a dipping sauce.

Truly this recipe is so easy. If you’re looking for other Fall recipes, check out these adorable Mummy Jalapeño Poppers!

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The Bank Hilton Head Island

July 10, 2023 by Rachel Leave a Comment

We recently visited Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and we were lucky enough to check out the hottest new place on the island. The Bank on Hilton Head Island is a must-see for everyone planning on visiting. From date nights to family pizza nights, The Bank should be your new go-to spot.

About The Bank Hilton Head Island

The Bank, which is located on Pope Avenue just before Coligny Plaza, houses various types of food and drink in an actual former bank — vault and all!

The location is spacious. Inside there are long tables meant to fit overlapping parties of guests. It’s a food hall type vibe with open seating. And? it works! We made friends with several people who popped down next to us.

There are two indoor places for ordering. Food orders can be placed on one side for Bank Heist Burgers, Pizza Co (which is wood-fired pizza made fast), and Mo’ Money Tacos.

The other side of the indoor space features Side Hustle Brewing. There is limited space at the bar for seating. But there are many other beautiful spots to find a seat throughout the building.

Side Hustle Brewing

Side Hustle Beer Company used to be located on Arrow Road in Hilton Head (at a much smaller location). Moving into The Bank provides them with so much more space to make their incredible beers.

The bar for Side Hustle Brewing has an extensive draft list. And, if beer isn’t your thing, they offer wine and mixed drinks, too. Just line up at either side of the bar and someone will take your order. If it’s too busy inside, head outdoors to the Outdoor Beer Garden.

The Outdoor Beer Garden features many of the same Side Hustle brews, plus you’re in close proximity to the live music, fire pits, and games.

Hungry? There are lots of options.

The Banks has somewhat of a ‘food hall’ vibe. Here are your options:

Bank Heist Burgers
Mo’ Money Tacos
Pizza Co.

All things considered, there’s something for everyone! But, I have to admit, the pizza is incredible! Truly.

Also, order the chicharones. For real. They’re delicious.

Other important (and not so important info)

The Bank leans heavy on the puns. From drinks named “Strategic Risk,” to burgers called “The Bandit.” The puns are always present.

The Bank is a cashless venue. Yep, that means that a place called the bank doesn’t actually handle cash. Crazy? Maybe. But, it keeps things simple.
Hours are 11 am to 11 pm. No outside food is allowed, but there are plenty of options if you’re hungry.

The entire place is family/kid-friendly. But, there is a specific spot called the Family Zone. The Family Zone is a place made for small kids. But, the whole place is truly family friendly (as are most breweries).

Family or not, there are tons of backyard-type games available outside. There’s cornhole, giant yard jenga, giant connect four, and more!
Even if you’re not staying nearby, The Breeze Trolly stops just outside The Bank (stop # 10!).
Plenty of on-site parking is available. But, there is also plenty of space to park (and lock) your bikes.

Regardless of what day (or time of day) you visit, The Bank is sure to be a fun time.

The Bank – website
59 Pope Ave.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Hours: 7 days a week, 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Video of exactly what you can expect on a trip to The Bank

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Everything You Need to See & Do at COSI

May 1, 2023 by Rachel 6 Comments

There are so many fun and exciting opportunities throughout Ohio. We have an incredible amount of art and culture spread across the state. One of my favorite must-see places is located in Columbus, Ohio. COSI, or the Center of Science and Industry, is an innovative, hands-on science center that is perfect for families in all age ranges. I’ll share with you all of the things you need to see & do at COSI.

Who, what and where?

COSI is located in Columbus, just off of the interstate, at 333 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43215. On-site parking is located just off of Broad in an underground (and covered) parking deck. The hours of operation as well as ticket pricing can be found here.

COSI food — Various lunch options from Atomic Cafe

Changing tables for kids and adults are located throughout various bathrooms in the building. On-site food and beverage (as well as adult beverages) are available in both the Molecules and Atomic Cafe (and both are delicious).

Must-See Exhibits at COSI

There are so many different exhibits and experiences available. Some of the exhibits are on permanent display, like “Energy Explorers” and “Big Science Park.” While other exhibits are open on a temporary and rotating basis. These can’t-miss experiences are perfect for the whole family:

Dinosaur Gallery

If you’re a parent of any sort, I’m certain your children have gone through at least one dinosaur phase. For many of us, kids and adults alike, we can struggle with the concept of just how huge these creatures were.

So for the American Museum of Natural History and COSI to come together to showcase these creatures in all of their glory is truly incredible.

This permanent exhibit consists of a full size T. rex, a climbable nest, as well as life-scale diorama of the creatures in their natural habitats.

It’s truly a fascinating exhibit. And our dinosaur-obsessed crew could have spent all day learning even more about these creatures.

Ocean

For as many times as I’ve been to COSI, I don’t think we’ve ever made it through the Ocean exhibit. And holy smokes! It is incredible!

It’s like travelling to a magical world of water, where kids are taught about both Greek mythology and science!

This hands-on exhibit allows kids to use actual oceanic technology like sonar and remote operated vehicles to explore the world around them.

They can even climb into a mini submarine!

Fair warning: You may end up just a tiny bit wet from this exhibit, but it’s totally worth it (and it truly is just a little bit, I promise!)!

Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures

Tutankhamun, or King Tut, as he’s widely referred, was discovered just over 100 years ago by Howard Carter.

The huge exhibit walks you through a self-guided audio tour of King Tut and his rise to the throne. The audio tour offers a kid-friendly guide for even the littlest explorers in your group.

Our history-loving 10-year-old was completely enthralled to hear the story of King Tut and get a behind-the-scenes look at so many artifacts.

It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get to see so many replicas and artifacts from a time in history that continues to be so fascinating for many (myself included!).

Everything You Need to See & Do at COSI king tut

This temporary exhibit runs from now until September 4th, 2023. Tickets to the Tutankhamun exhibit are an additional charge and can be found here.

Planetarium Show

The COSI Planetarium show is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. Shows run every half an hour from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM from Wednesday through Sunday. The planetarium itself is the largest planetarium in the state of Ohio!

It is currently showing Passport to the Universe, which is about a 20 minute show. It kept 5 kids and three adults incredibly entertained the entire time. To be honest, space stuff just blows my mind. It’s hard to really grasp how big the universe is. And the COSI Planetarium really puts things into perspective.

The shows are on a first-come, first-served basis. So be sure to plan ahead and get in line about 5-10 minutes ahead of the showing of your choice!

Nature’s Superheroes: Life at the Limits

This brand new exhibit explores the cool ‘superpowers’ that certain species have to help them survive. From mammals that can survive for hours without breathing, to extraordinary (and bizarre!) mating rituals, Nature’s Superheroes covers all of it.

This exhibit is included with your COSI admission and features larger-than-life models, dioramas, and interactive learning.

COSI Tips and Tricks

Arrive early.

We arrived just before opening and there were cars lining up the street to get into the parking deck. We didn’t have to wait at all, but there is just so much to see and do. You’ll want to give yourself ample amounts of time for everything.

Build in breaks to your schedule.

Science and technology are so cool, but it can be overstimulating for some folks (big kids and little kids).

Be sure to build in ‘breaks’ to your schedule for snacks, downtime in the play area (where kids can get some energy out), and get outside at the Big Science Park exhibit for some fresh air!

Get the schedule of the live shows upon arrival.

COSI offers super fun and interactive live-shows on the science stage at certain times throughout the day. Be sure to catch a seat during one of the performances to get a chance to see the power of electricity up close!

HAVE FUN! And consider becoming a member!

There is so much to see and do. The memories you make at COSI will last a lifetime. Becoming an annual member includes benefits like member previews and events, as well as discounted or free reciprocal admission to over 360 other science museums.

Learn more about membership opportunities here.

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Unicorn Pop Tart Recipe

March 27, 2023 by Rachel 6 Comments

As we get further into this school year, our mornings have become increasingly chaotic. Between bathing, clothing, and feeding all three kids, we are often barely to school on time. I try to get my kids to eat something — anything! — before school starts. Some days are easier than others. One of the problems we have run into is that my kids just don’t really like traditional Pop Tarts. Enter the Unicorn Pop Tart Recipe. My kids are obsessed! And I think your kids will be, too!

What You’ll Need

In my opinion, traditional pop tarts really lack because of the dry pastry crust. Thankfully these unicorn pop tarts do not have that problem. I make these using refrigerated pie crusts, like these Pillsbury crusts. The other trick to creating these delicious, flaky pop tarts, is to use your air fryer. YES! Pop tarts in the air fryer will cook these to perfection.

Here’s what else you’ll need:

15 ounces of pie crusts (equivalent to 2 crusts), store bought or homemade
blue food coloring
pink food coloring
any flavor of jelly preserves
powdered sugar
milk
an egg
a heart cookie cutter
and sprinkles!

Be sure to play around with different jelly preserves, food coloring, and sprinkles!

Unicorn Pop Tart Recipe

Unicorn Pop Tarts

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 11 minutes

Total Time 26 minutes

Ingredients

15 oz of pie crusts (equivalent to 2 crusts), store bought or homemade
3 drops blue food coloring
5 ounces jelly preserves total, any flavor (I used strawberry)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 TBSP milk (you may add more if you like your icing to be a thinner consistency)
2 drops pink food coloring
1 egg, whisked
4 tablespoons mixture of pink and purple sprinkles
1 heart cookie cutter

Instructions

INGREDIENTS -

On one of the heart-shaped crust, take 1 tablespoon of your jelly preserves, and place it in the middle. Spread it out evenly on the heart shape. Make sure to leave room around the edges.

Taking your finger, dip it in the egg wash, and evenly spread the egg wash around the edges surrounding the jelly.

Place another heart shaped pie crust on top of the other heart with the jelly on it. Using a fork press down the edges creating a seal.

Using a kitchen brush, dip it in the egg wash and top the rest of your heart shape with the egg wash.

Using a fork, or toothpick, poke about 6 to 8 holes in the top of your top layer pastry.

Depending on the size of your air fryer, place as many pastry hearts in your air fryer that will fit without interfering with the shape of the pastry.

Cook your pop tart at 370° for 7 minutes. Once the timer is done, open your air fryer, and flip your pop tarts. Continue to cook at 370° for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until it is reached a soft brown color.

Remove from the air fryer, and transfer to a cooling rack.

While your pastries are cooling, mix together your powdered sugar, milk, and pink food coloring (you can add more or less depending on the color of food coloring you prefer). You can choose to add more powdered sugar if you like your icing thicker, or more milk if you like your icing thinner.

Drizzle your icing over your pop tart and add your sprinkles while your frosting is still wet.

Allow them to cool and the frosting to harden, and then enjoy!

© Rachel

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Air Fryer Turkey Breast

March 7, 2023 by Rachel 6 Comments

Delicious meals don’t have to be difficult. In fact, they shouldn’t be. Air Fryer Turkey Breast recipe is a great way to cook a smaller amount of turkey that turns out perfectly tender and moist in just 45 minutes — without the hassle of the oven.

Why use an air fryer?

As noted above, the primary reason for using an air fryer is that you won’t have to heat up the whole oven. Additionally, the air fryer is just plain ol’ efficient. If you’re still in the market for an air fryer, my two favorites are this one and this one.

What You’ll Need

There are just six simple ingredients with this recipe. You’ll need only the following:

2 pounds turkey breast (with skin)

4 Tablespoons of butter, melted

1 Tablespoon of sea salt

1 Tablespoons of fresh peppercorn, ground well

2 Tablespoon of garlic, minced

4 sprigs thyme, remove from stem

I would add that the ‘optional’ ingredients would be things to enhance your turkey breast. Whether that be a good turkey gravy or cranberry sauce, you won’t be disappointed!

If you are looking for a post-turkey dessert, be sure to check out this Instant Pot Peach Cobbler.

The Full Recipe

Yield: 3-4
Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds turkey breast (with skin)

4 Tablespoons of butter, melted

1 Tablespoon of sea salt

1 Tablespoons of fresh peppercorn, ground well

2 Tablespoon of garlic, minced

4 sprigs thyme, remove from stem

Instructions

INGREDIENTS -
Melt your butter in the microwave or on a double broiler on the stove.
Once melted, add in the sea salt, peppercorn, garlic, and thyme. Mix.
Using a basting brush, brush your butter mix on the top and bottom of the turkey breast.
Place the turkey breast in your air fryer.
Set your Air Fryer to 375 degrees F for 45 minutes.
At the halfway mark of about 22/23 minutes, flip the breast with tongs. Continue to cook.
Once the air fryer has finished cooking, cut and serve!
Top with cranberry sauce, gravy, or eat as is! Enjoy!

© Rachel