That $60 brunch tab hits different when all you wanted was something more exciting than scrambled eggs. You’re craving a weekend breakfast that feels like an occasion, not another morning routine, but restaurant prices make it a rare treat. I used to feel guilty every time I suggested staying home instead of going out for brunch.

These global recipes deliver that special breakfast feeling for under $10 each. Japanese Soufflé Pancakes give you those viral cloud pancakes for about $6 total, Shakshuka brings bold Tel Aviv café flavors with pantry staples, and French Crêpes turn a lazy Saturday into something your whole family remembers.

1. Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Three eggs, a quarter cup of milk, and about $5 in basic ingredients get you those viral cloud pancakes everyone’s obsessed with. The whole batch runs around $6 total and serves 2-3 people. You’ll need 20 minutes to prep and another 15 to cook them low and slow. Separate your eggs, whip the whites to stiff peaks, then fold everything together gently. The trick is cooking them covered on the lowest heat setting so they puff up without burning. My first batch collapsed completely, but the second try worked perfectly once I stopped peeking under the lid every thirty seconds.

2. Shakshuka with Store-Bought Pita

When you want breakfast that feels like you’re sitting in a Tel Aviv café, this North African dish delivers. A can of crushed tomatoes costs about $1.50, eggs run $4-5 per dozen, and you’ll use maybe $2 worth of peppers and onions. The whole thing comes in under $10 and feeds four people. Prep takes 10 minutes, cooking another 25. Simmer the tomato-pepper sauce until it thickens, crack eggs directly into it, then cover until the whites set. Grab a pita from the bakery section for under $3 instead of making your own.

3. Congee (Chinese Rice Porridge)

A cup of rice that costs about 50 cents transforms into six servings of this comforting breakfast. I spend maybe $8 total when I add chicken, ginger, and green onions. The rice simmers for 90 minutes, but it’s completely hands-off time. Use a 1:10 rice-to-water ratio and let it bubble away on low heat until it breaks down into something silky. Top it with whatever’s in your fridge: leftover rotisserie chicken, a fried egg, or crispy fried onions from a $2 jar.

4. Turkish Menemen (Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes and Peppers)

This scrambled egg dish uses ingredients you probably already have. Two tomatoes run about $1.50, a bell pepper costs around $1, and you’ll use four eggs. Everything together totals under $6 for three servings. It takes 5 minutes to prep and 10 to cook. Sauté the peppers and tomatoes until they soften and release their juices, then scramble the eggs right into the vegetables. The key difference from shakshuka is that you scramble everything together instead of poaching the eggs whole.

5. French Crêpes

These thin pancakes feel fancy but cost almost nothing. A batch runs about $4 (eggs, milk, flour, butter) and makes 12-15 crêpes that serve four people. You’ll spend 10 minutes mixing the batter and 20 minutes cooking them. The batter needs to rest for 30 minutes. Swirl the pan to spread the batter paper-thin. Fill them with Nutella for $4 a jar, or go savory with ham and cheese for under $6 total.

6. Ful Medames (Egyptian Fava Beans)

For about $5, you can feed four people a protein-packed breakfast that’s been fueling mornings in Egypt for centuries. A can of fava beans from the international aisle costs around $2, and if you add lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, you probably have. The beans simmer for 15 minutes to heat through and absorb the garlic. Mash some of them with a fork while leaving others whole for texture. Serve with warm pita and a drizzle of good olive oil.

7. Korean Egg Bread (Gyeran-ppang)

These savory muffins with a whole egg baked inside look harder than they are. A box of cornbread mix runs about $2, eggs cost maybe $3 for the six you’ll use, and mozzarella adds another $3. The whole batch comes in around $8 and makes six servings. Mix the batter, pour it into greased muffin tins, crack an egg into each one, then bake for 20 minutes at 375°F. You can find muffin-shaped pans at Dollar Tree for $1.25 if you don’t want to buy a fancy Korean street food pan.

8. Swedish Pancakes (Tunnpannkakor)

These taste different from regular pancakes. They’re thinner and almost custardy. You’ll spend about $4 on ingredients (mostly eggs and milk) for a batch that serves four people. They take 10 minutes to mix and 20 to cook. The batter is much runnier than American pancakes, closer to crêpe consistency. Pour it thin in a hot buttered pan and flip when the edges look dry. Serve them rolled up with lingonberry jam from IKEA for $3, or just use regular strawberry preserves.

9. Chilaquiles

When you need to use up tortilla chips before they go stale, this Mexican breakfast saves the day. Chips you already bought for $3, salsa verde for $2.50, and four eggs bring this in around $8 for four servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 15 to cook. Pour salsa over the chips and let them soften slightly in a skillet. You want them to lose their sharp crunch, not be soggy. Top with fried eggs and crumbled queso fresco if you have it. Use red salsa if green isn’t your thing.

10. Kaiserschmarrn (Austrian Torn Pancakes)

Shredded pancakes sound weird until you taste how the torn edges get crispy and caramelized. Basic pancake ingredients cost about $5, and you’ll use maybe $2 worth of butter for a batch serving three people. The batter takes 10 minutes to mix, and cooking takes 15 minutes. Pour thick pancake batter into a buttered pan, let it set, then literally tear it into pieces with two forks while it finishes cooking. Dust it with powdered sugar and serve with applesauce or jam you probably have in your fridge.

Make Breakfast Feel Special Again

You miss feeling like you can treat your family without watching the bill climb at a restaurant. That $60 brunch tab stings, especially when you’re just craving something different than the usual eggs and toast. These recipes bring that special breakfast feeling home for a fraction of the cost. Exploring delicious lowcalorie breakfast alternatives can transform your mornings into a culinary delight without breaking the bank. From protein-packed smoothies to hearty oatmeal bowls, these options not only satisfy your cravings but also support your wellness goals. Treating your family to flavorful meals has never been easier or more budget-friendly. If you’re looking for easy breakfast ideas for busy mornings, consider whipping up quick overnight oats or a batch of muffins that can be enjoyed throughout the week. These simple yet satisfying dishes not only save you time but also ensure that everyone starts their day on a delicious note. Additionally, incorporating fresh fruits and nuts can elevate these meals while providing essential nutrients.

Start with Japanese Soufflé Pancakes if you want something impressive that uses ingredients you already have, try Shakshuka with Store-Bought Pita when you need bold flavors without special shopping trips, or make Chilaquiles when you need to rescue those chips going stale in the pantry. Each one costs less than two coffees at that brunch spot. You’re not settling by staying home. You’re creating weekend breakfast memories that feel like an occasion, not just another morning routine.

The post 10 Global Breakfast Recipes That Feel Like Brunch Out for Under $10 appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

You’re starving by 10 a.m. even though you just ate breakfast two hours ago. The protein bars taste like cardboard, and you’re sick of the same boring eggs every morning. These 24 breakfasts actually keep you full until lunch without requiring a culinary degree or an hour of morning prep.

The Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Sausage and Peppers feeds your whole family for under $1.50 per serving. Breakfast Burrito Freezer Packs let you prep once and eat for weeks. The Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl takes two minutes flat with zero cooking. Every single one delivers at least 20 grams of protein.

1. Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Sausage and Peppers

Your whole breakfast cooks in one pan while you get ready. Beat a dozen eggs with a splash of milk, pour over cooked breakfast sausage and diced bell peppers on a sheet pan, and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes. The whole thing comes to around $8 and serves 6, so you’re looking at under $1.50 per serving with 22 grams of protein each. Prep takes maybe 10 minutes, and cook time is 20. I make these on Sunday nights and reheat squares all week in the microwave. Swap the sausage for black beans if you want to cut costs even more.

2. Greek Yogurt Protein Pancakes

Two ingredients get you fluffy pancakes with 25 grams of protein per serving. Mix one cup of Greek yogurt with one cup of any pancake mix, and cook like regular pancakes. The Greek yogurt costs $5 for a big container, pancake mix is around $3, and you’ll get 4 servings for roughly $2 each. Takes 15 minutes start to finish. These keep me full until lunch, unlike regular pancakes that have me starving by 10 a.m. Top with peanut butter instead of syrup to add even more protein without the sugar crash.

3. Breakfast Burrito Freezer Packs

When my kids were little, I’d make 20 of these at once and pull them out all month. Scramble eggs with cooked ground turkey, black beans, and cheese, then wrap in tortillas. Each burrito has about 23 grams of protein and costs around $1.25 to make. Ground turkey is over $6 a pound now, but one pound plus a can of beans (about $1) stretches to 8 burritos. Prep takes 30 minutes for a batch. Wrap individually in foil and freeze. Microwave for 2 minutes straight from frozen, and you’ve got breakfast.

4. Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl

One cup of cottage cheese (around $1 per serving from a $4 tub) gives you 28 grams of protein with zero cooking. Top with berries, a drizzle of honey, and some granola for crunch. Maybe 2 minutes to assemble. The key is getting full-fat cottage cheese, not the watery low-fat stuff. Add a handful of almonds or walnuts, and you’ve got 30+ grams of protein that keeps you satisfied for hours.

5. Veggie-Packed Egg Muffins

Fill twelve muffin cups with beaten eggs, diced vegetables, and shredded cheese, then bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Each muffin has about 7 grams of protein, so eating 3 gets you to 21 grams for under $2 total. A dozen eggs cost around $5, cheese is about $3, and whatever vegetables you need to use up are basically free. These are perfect for using up peppers, spinach, or mushrooms about to go bad. They reheat perfectly and last all week in the fridge.

6. Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie

For mornings when you need breakfast in a glass, this delivers 35 grams of protein in under 3 minutes. Two scoops of protein powder mixed with a frozen banana, two tablespoons of peanut butter, and a cup of milk. The whole thing totals maybe $2.50 per serving. Protein powder seems expensive up front at around $25, but it lasts forever and costs less per serving than most breakfast options. Freeze overripe bananas specifically for this because they make it creamy without adding ice that waters everything down.

7. Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash

Crispy sweet potato, crumbled turkey sausage, and two fried eggs give you 26 grams of protein. One sweet potato costs about $1, turkey sausage sets you back $4 for a pack that makes 4 servings, and eggs add maybe 50 cents. You’re spending under $2.50 per serving. Prep and cook time is about 25 minutes. Dice the sweet potato small since it takes the longest to cook. Season with paprika and garlic powder, and this tastes way more complicated than it is.

8. High-Protein Overnight Oats

Mix half a cup of oats with a cup of Greek yogurt, a scoop of protein powder, and a splash of milk the night before. By morning, you’ve got 30+ grams of protein waiting in the fridge. Costs around $2 per serving. The oats are cheap at about $3 for a container that lasts weeks, and the Greek yogurt does double duty for protein and creaminess. Takes 5 minutes to stir together at night, zero minutes in the morning. Add chia seeds for extra staying power and texture.

9. Breakfast Quesadilla with Eggs and Black Beans

When you want something filling but don’t want to dirty a bunch of dishes, this is it. A tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, black beans, and cheese, then crisped in a skillet, delivers 24 grams of protein. The whole thing costs maybe $1.50. Tortillas run about $3 for a pack, canned black beans are around $1, and you’ve already got eggs. Cook time is under 10 minutes. Cut into wedges and dip in salsa, and it feels like you’re eating something way fancier than scrambled eggs.

10. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Scramble

Four ounces of smoked salmon stirred into scrambled eggs with a tablespoon of cream cheese creates the fluffiest, most satisfying eggs you’ve ever had. You get 28 grams of protein per serving. Smoked salmon costs more at around $8 for a package, but it serves 4 and keeps in the fridge for weeks. Each serving costs about $3. Takes 8 minutes to make. The cream cheese makes the eggs creamy without adding milk, and the salmon adds a restaurant-quality flavor that makes regular scrambled eggs seem boring.

11. Protein-Packed Breakfast Pizza

Flatbread or naan topped with marinara, scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, and mozzarella bakes at 400°F for 10 minutes. Each pizza has 25 grams of protein and costs under $3. Naan bread runs about $3 for a pack of 4 at regular grocery stores, and you’re using ingredients you probably have on hand. Prep takes 5 minutes, cook time is 10. Use pesto instead of marinara for a completely different flavor.

12. Tofu Scramble with Vegetables

For anyone avoiding eggs or just wanting variety, this delivers 22 grams of protein for maybe $1.50 per serving. Crumble firm tofu and cook with turmeric, nutritional yeast, and whatever vegetables need using up. A block of tofu costs around $2.50 and serves 2 people. Nutritional yeast sounds weird, but it tastes cheesy and adds B vitamins, and you can find it at regular stores now for about $8 (lasts months). Cook time is 12 minutes. The turmeric makes it look like scrambled eggs, and the texture is pretty close. Add hot sauce, and you won’t miss the eggs.

13. Protein Waffles with Almond Butter

Regular waffle mix combined with protein powder and Greek yogurt makes waffles with 20 grams of protein each. Top with almond butter for another 7 grams. The batch costs around $6 and makes 4 servings, so $1.50 each plus the almond butter. Takes 15 minutes, including waffle iron time. These freeze perfectly, so make extra and toast them on busy mornings. They’re dense and filling in a good way, not in a cardboard protein bar way.

14. Steak and Eggs Skillet

Leftover steak sliced thin and crisped in a skillet with two fried eggs delivers 30+ grams of protein. If you’re buying steak specifically for breakfast, that’s pricey, but using last night’s leftovers means this costs basically nothing except the eggs. Takes 8 minutes to throw together. Add roasted potatoes if you’ve got them, or keep it simple with just the meat and eggs. This is weekend breakfast territory when you want it to feel like an event but don’t want to spend an hour cooking.

15. Chickpea Flour Pancakes (Socca)

This French flatbread gives you 24 grams of protein per serving and costs about $1. Chickpea flour runs around $4 for a bag that makes 8 servings. Whisk one cup of chickpea flour with one cup of water, salt, and olive oil, then cook like a thick crepe in a hot skillet. Takes 15 minutes total. The batter keeps in the fridge for 3 days, so mix it once and cook fresh each morning. Top with scrambled eggs or smoked salmon for even more protein. The nutty flavor beats regular pancakes, and these keep you full.

16. Protein-Boosted Chia Pudding

For mornings when chewing feels like too much effort, this delivers 21 grams of protein in a jar. Mix three tablespoons of chia seeds with one cup of milk, a scoop of protein powder, and vanilla extract. Everything together costs under $2 per serving. Chia seeds are about $6 for a bag that lasts months. Stir it at night, and by morning it’s thick and pudding-like. Prep time is 2 minutes. Layer with Greek yogurt for extra protein and a parfait effect that looks impressive but costs pennies.

17. Savory Oatmeal with Fried Egg and Cheese

Savory oatmeal topped with a fried egg and shredded cheddar has 20 grams of protein and tastes like the best comfort food. Cook half a cup of oats with broth instead of water (about 50 cents worth), top with the egg (40 cents) and cheese (maybe 30 cents). You’re spending around $1.20 total. Takes 12 minutes. Add hot sauce and everything bagel seasoning, and this beats sugary oatmeal every time. The runny yolk mixed into the oats creates a creamy texture that’s completely satisfying.

18. Breakfast Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers cut in half and filled with scrambled eggs mixed with crumbled breakfast sausage and cheese, then baked at 375°F for 20 minutes. Each pepper half delivers 22 grams of protein. Bell peppers are around $1.50 each, and one pepper serves two people, so you’re looking at about $2.50 per serving with the eggs and sausage. Prep takes 10 minutes, and cook time is 20. These reheat beautifully and feel fancy enough for brunch guests. Use red or yellow peppers for a sweeter flavor, green if you want to save 50 cents.

19. Ricotta and Spinach Breakfast Wrap

Fifteen-ounce containers of ricotta at my store cost about $4 and make 4 wraps. Mix ricotta with thawed frozen spinach and garlic powder, spread on a tortilla, add scrambled eggs, and roll it up. Each wrap has 23 grams of protein for around $1.75. Takes 8 minutes if you keep cooked eggs in the fridge. The ricotta adds creaminess and extra protein without the heaviness of cream cheese. Warm the whole thing in a skillet until the outside crisps and the inside gets melty.

20. Tuna and White Bean Breakfast Bowl

Sounds weird, but tastes amazing. One can of tuna (about $1.25) mixed with cannellini beans (another $1.25), cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice gives you 28 grams of protein. The total cost is under $3 for a huge bowl. Assembly time is 5 minutes. Mediterranean countries eat fish for breakfast all the time, and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Add a soft-boiled egg on top for 34 grams of protein. The beans make it filling, and the lemon keeps it fresh-tasting.

21. Breakfast Sausage Patties from Scratch

Store-bought breakfast sausage costs over $6 a pack. Make your own with ground turkey, sage, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes for about $1 per serving. One pound of ground turkey makes 8 patties. Mix everything, form patties, and cook in batches. Each patty has 15 grams of protein, so two patties with eggs get you to 27 grams total. Takes 20 minutes to mix and cook. These freeze perfectly and taste way better than store-bought because you control the seasoning. Double the batch and stock your freezer.

22. Protein Crepes with Ham and Cheese

Regular crepe batter mixed with a scoop of unflavored protein powder makes thin, delicate crepes with 20 grams of protein each. The batter costs maybe $4 and makes 6 crepes. Fill with deli ham (about $4 for enough to fill all 6) and Swiss cheese. Each filled crepe runs under $2. Cooking time is 15 minutes for the batch. A regular nonstick skillet works fine for these. Roll them up, and they feel elegant even though they’re basically fancy egg wraps.

23. Shakshuka with Extra Eggs

When the house needs to smell like something delicious, this fills it with warm spice aromas. Simmer canned crushed tomatoes with cumin and paprika, crack six eggs into the sauce, and cover until the eggs set. Each serving delivers 21 grams of protein. A can of tomatoes is around $1.50, and eggs add about $2. Serves 3 for roughly $1.20 each. Takes 25 minutes total. Scoop it up with crusty bread, and it’s the kind of breakfast that makes you feel like you have your life together even when you definitely don’t.

24. Protein Smoothie Bowl You Eat with a Spoon

Your local smoothie shop probably charges $12 for these trendy bowls. Make this for under $3. Blend frozen berries, banana, protein powder, and just enough milk to keep it thick like soft serve. Pour into a bowl and top with granola, sliced almonds, and more berries. You get 30 grams of protein if you use two scoops of powder. Takes 5 minutes. The key is using way less liquid than a regular smoothie, so you can eat it with a spoon. Eating something feels more satisfying than drinking it, and this keeps you full way longer.

Start Your Morning Stronger

You’re tired of being hungry an hour after breakfast. You’ve tried the protein bars that taste like cardboard and the same boring eggs every single day. These 24 breakfasts taste good, keep you full, and fit into your morning routine. With these freezer breakfast ideas for busy mornings, you can enjoy a variety of flavors each day without the hassle of cooking. Whether you prefer smoothie packs or savory egg muffins, these meals are designed to be both nutritious and satisfying. Start your day right and avoid those mid-morning hunger pangs with ease.

Start with Veggie-Packed Egg Muffins if you need grab-and-go all week, try the Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Sausage and Peppers when you’re feeding the whole family, or make Breakfast Burrito Freezer Packs when you want to prep once and eat for weeks. Every single one delivers at least 20 grams of protein without tasting like punishment. You’re not asking for much, just breakfast that keeps you going until lunch. You’ve got 24 ways to make that happen now.

The post 24 High-Protein Breakfasts That Actually Keep You Full Until Lunch appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

You’re not lazy for dreading the morning scramble. Between getting everyone fed and out the door on time, breakfast becomes just another thing you’re failing at before 8 AM. It doesn’t have to be this way.

Frozen Pancake Stacks let you sleep in while kids feed themselves. Overnight Oats in Mason Jars require zero morning effort, and Breakfast Burrito Freezer Wraps give you a full week of hot breakfasts from one Sunday prep session. These hacks work because they meet you where you are.

1. Frozen Pancake Stacks

Make a double batch of pancakes on Sunday, cool them completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each one. The whole batch costs under $5 and makes 20-24 pancakes. Freeze them in gallon bags and microwave one or two for 30 seconds when you need breakfast. When my kids were in school, they’d grab these before leaving without me even getting out of bed. The parchment keeps them from sticking together, and they taste fresh rather than freezer-burned. Works with waffles, too.

2. Egg Muffin Tin Scrambles

Whisk 12 eggs with whatever leftovers you have (cooked sausage, cheese, diced peppers) and pour into a greased muffin tin. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes on Sunday. With $6 worth of ingredients, you get a dozen egg muffins. Grab two cold from the fridge each morning and microwave for 30 seconds. These last five days, I’ve been driving through breakfast every time. Add salsa or hot sauce right before eating since it keeps the muffins from getting soggy.

3. Overnight Oats in Mason Jars

Mix half a cup of oats with milk and a spoonful of yogurt in a mason jar before bed. Each serving totals under 60 cents. In the morning, it’s ready to eat cold or microwave for one minute. Make five jars on Sunday night and line them up in the fridge. Add toppings in the morning (banana, peanut butter, honey), so they stay fresh. The texture is creamy, not mushy, and you can eat it straight from the jar.

4. Toaster Oven Sheet Pan Breakfast

Crack four eggs directly onto a small rimmed baking sheet alongside frozen hash browns and pre-cooked sausage links. Everything goes in the toaster oven at 375°F for 12 minutes. You’ll spend around $4 for a breakfast that serves two people. One pan, no flipping, no babysitting the stove. Use parchment paper on the pan so cleanup is just tossing the paper. Add shredded cheese in the last two minutes if you want. For larger gatherings, consider trying some breakfast casserole recipes for families that can be prepared in advance and baked in one large dish. These options are not only convenient but also highly customizable, allowing you to mix in your family’s favorite ingredients like vegetables, cheeses, and meats. With minimal effort, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve, making mornings much easier.

5. Smoothie Freezer Bags

Portion out smoothie ingredients (frozen fruit, spinach, banana chunks) into individual freezer bags on the weekend. Each bag runs about $1.50. In the morning, dump one bag into the blender with milk or juice and blend for 30 seconds. Prep 10 bags at once while you’re already putting groceries away. Label them with a marker so everyone knows what flavor they’re grabbing. Saves $5 per smoothie compared to the smoothie shop.

6. Breakfast Quesadilla Assembly Line

Lay out 10 tortillas, sprinkle half of each with shredded cheese and scrambled eggs, and fold them over. Stack them with parchment between each one and refrigerate. An $8 investment gets you 10 quesadillas. Heat one in a skillet for two minutes per side or microwave for 45 seconds. These became my go-to when my kids started driving themselves to school. Add cooked bacon or sausage before folding if you want more protein.

7. English Muffin Pizzas

Split English muffins, spread with pizza sauce from a jar, add shredded mozzarella, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Each pizza costs about 50 cents. Toast straight from frozen for 5-6 minutes until the cheese melts. Kids think this is a treat, not breakfast. Add pepperoni or veggies before freezing if you want, but plain cheese is fastest.

8. Greek Yogurt Parfait Cups

Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit in small containers with lids. Make six at once on Sunday, totaling $8. Keep the granola separate in a small container or baggie until you’re ready to eat so it stays crunchy. Those 8-ounce deli containers from the dollar store work great. Grab one from the fridge, add the granola, and eat it in the car. Way cheaper than the yogurt cups at the coffee shop.

9. Banana Bread Muffins with Mix-Ins

Use a basic banana bread recipe, but bake it in muffin tins instead of a loaf pan. The whole batch costs around $4 and makes 18 muffins. Bake time drops to 18 minutes instead of an hour. Freeze half immediately and keep the other half in a container on the counter. Add chocolate chips, walnuts, or blueberries to different muffins so everyone gets their favorite. Microwave frozen ones for 20 seconds.

10. Breakfast Burrito Freezer Wraps

Scramble a dozen eggs with cooked sausage, cheese, and salsa, then divide among 10 flour tortillas. Roll them tight, wrap each in foil, and freeze. You’re looking at about $12 for 10 burritos. Microwave for 90 seconds (remove foil first) or heat in the foil in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes. Write the date on the foil with a marker. These last three months in the freezer taste homemade, not like gas station breakfast.

11. Sheet Pan French Toast Bake

Cube a loaf of bread, toss with an egg mixture (6 eggs, 1 cup milk, cinnamon, vanilla), and bake on a sheet pan at 375°F for 25 minutes. Costs about $5 and serves six people. Cut into squares and reheat individual portions all week. Drizzle with syrup or dust with powdered sugar right before serving. Way faster than standing at the stove flipping individual slices.

12. Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups

Spread peanut butter on a tortilla, place a whole banana on one edge, roll it tight, and slice into pinwheels. Each roll-up runs about 40 cents. Make them the night before and refrigerate in a container. Add a drizzle of honey or mini chocolate chips if you want them to feel like a treat. Takes two minutes and no cooking.

13. Breakfast Cookie Dough Balls

For about $6, you can roll 20 balls from oats, peanut butter, honey, mini chocolate chips, and a handful of flax seeds. Refrigerate in a container and grab two for breakfast. These last two weeks have given you energy without the sugar crash. Add dried cranberries or shredded coconut for variety.

14. Microwave Scrambled Eggs in a Mug

Crack two eggs into a microwave-safe mug, add a splash of milk, whisk with a fork, and microwave for 90 seconds (stir halfway through). Costs about 50 cents. Add shredded cheese, diced ham, or salsa before cooking. I taught my teenagers this method back when they were in high school, and they started making their own breakfast. The mug goes straight into the dishwasher. Beat a pan and a spatula at 6:30 in the morning.

15. Apple Cinnamon Instant Oatmeal Packets

Mix quick oats with brown sugar, cinnamon, and dried apple pieces in sandwich bags. Make 10 packets for under $5. Pour one packet into a bowl, add hot water, stir, and wait two minutes. Way cheaper than the store-bought packets, and you control the sugar. Add a handful of walnuts or raisins when you make the packets.

16. Hash Brown Waffle Iron Trick

Press thawed frozen hash browns into a preheated waffle iron and cook for 5 minutes. One serving totals maybe 75 cents and comes out crispy without any oil. Top with a fried egg or use it as a base for breakfast sandwiches. The waffle iron makes perfect edges, and cleanup is easier than a skillet. No flipping required.

17. Cream Cheese and Jam Bagel Prep

Slice and toast a bag of bagels, let them cool, then spread half with cream cheese and the other half with jam. Wrap each in plastic wrap and freeze. You’ll pay around $8 for 12 bagel halves. Grab two halves from the freezer and microwave for 30 seconds. They taste fresh, not freezer-stale, and you can mix up the jam flavors.

18. Sausage and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

Split Hawaiian rolls, layer with cooked sausage patties and cheese slices, brush the tops with melted butter, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Makes 12 sliders for about $10. Wrap individually in foil and reheat as needed. Cut them apart after baking, so they’re easier to grab. Add a fried egg if you’re feeling fancy.

19. Cottage Cheese Protein Bowls

Scoop cottage cheese into containers and top with fruit, granola, or a drizzle of honey. Each bowl runs about $1.50 and has more protein than yogurt. Make five at once and refrigerate for the week. Keep the toppings separate until morning so nothing gets soggy. Add everything bagel seasoning instead of sweet toppings if you want savory.

20. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Crisps

Brush tortillas with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, cut into wedges, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes. One batch costs under $3 and makes enough for the whole week. Store in a container and grab a handful with yogurt or fruit. These taste like churros but take five minutes of work. Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

21. Cereal Bar Breakfast Squares

Press any cereal (even the healthy kind your kids ignore) into melted marshmallows and butter, then cut into squares. The whole pan totals under $4 and makes 16 bars. These last a week in a container on the counter and get eaten, unlike the cereal boxes collecting dust. Wrap individually in plastic wrap for grab-and-go mornings. Add peanut butter to the marshmallow mixture for extra protein and sticking power.

22. Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches

Toast bagels, add a fried egg and cheese slice to each half, wrap in parchment paper, and freeze the whole batch. You’ll spend around $10 for 12 sandwiches. Microwave for 90 seconds straight from the freezer. The parchment keeps everything from sticking and makes it easy to eat in the car. Add cooked bacon to half the batch and leave the other half plain. These beat fast food breakfast by miles, and you know exactly what’s in them.

23. Blender Pancake Batter

Blend oats, eggs, banana, and milk until smooth, then pour straight into a hot skillet. One batch gives you 8-10 pancakes for maybe $3 total. No mixing bowls, no measuring cups, just throw everything in the blender. Cook time is the same as regular pancakes, but cleanup is in one container instead of five. The texture is fluffier than you’d expect from blended oats. Add cinnamon or vanilla to the blender if you want more flavor.

24. Cold Pizza from Last Night

Leftover pizza in the fridge is breakfast now. Free if you already bought it for dinner. Microwave for 30 seconds or eat it cold. Honestly, it has protein, carbs, and vegetables if you get a decent pizza. No prep, no dishes, no judgment. Add a piece of fruit on the side if you need to feel like a responsible adult. Sometimes, easy is the whole point.

25. Breakfast Rice Bowls

Cook a big pot of rice on Sunday, then portion it into bowls with a fried egg, soy sauce, and whatever vegetables you have. Each bowl comes in under $2. Microwave the rice for one minute, fry the egg fresh, and you’re done in five minutes. Top with sesame seeds or green onions if you have them. Feels like a restaurant breakfast without the restaurant price.

26. Muffin Tin Omelets with Toppings Bar

Whisk eggs and pour into muffin tins, but leave them plain. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. You’ll spend around $5 for a dozen. Set out bowls of cheese, salsa, avocado, and hot sauce so everyone customizes their own. Refrigerate the plain egg muffins and reheat two at a time. This solved the problem of everyone wanting different things for breakfast.

27. Pumpkin Spice Baked Oatmeal

Mix oats, pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and spices in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. The whole pan runs about $6 and serves eight. Cut into squares and refrigerate. Microwave one square for 45 seconds each morning. Tastes like pumpkin pie but counts as breakfast. Make this in the fall when canned pumpkin goes on sale and freeze half. Top with a dollop of yogurt or maple syrup.

28. No-Bake Nut Butter Energy Bites

Mix almond butter, oats, honey, and chia seeds in a bowl, then roll into balls. For about $6, you get 24 bites. These hold together better than granola bars and don’t require any baking. Keep them in the fridge for two weeks. Grab two or three on your way out the door. Roll them in shredded coconut or cocoa powder for variety.

You Can Feed Everyone and Still Get Out the Door

Mornings don’t have to feel like a battle you’re losing before the day even starts. The chaos is real, and so is the exhaustion of hearing “I’m hungry” when you’re already running late. These breakfast hacks work because they let you feed your family without starting from scratch every single morning.

Start with Egg Muffin Tin Scrambles if you need grab-and-go protein, try Overnight Oats in Mason Jars when you want zero morning effort, or make Breakfast Burrito Freezer Wraps when you need a full week covered at once. Pick what fits your family right now. You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine tomorrow. You just need one less thing to figure out when everyone’s hungry, and you’re already behind. You’ve got this.

The post 28 Breakfast Hacks That Let You Sleep In While Everyone Feeds Themselves appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

17 Breakfast Recipes for When You’re Too Tired to Think

You’re staring into the fridge at 7 AM, brain completely blank, wondering how you’re supposed to come up with yet another breakfast idea. The mental load of feeding people every single morning adds up, and some days you have nothing left.

These recipes work when your creativity has checked out. Sheet Pan Pancakes feed everyone at once without you standing at a griddle flipping for twenty minutes. Freezer Breakfast Burritos solve five mornings with one Sunday prep session, and Microwave Scrambled Eggs in a Mug take two minutes when you’re running late. Simple ingredients, minimal decisions, food on the table.

1. Sheet Pan Pancakes

Fifteen minutes and under $5 feeds your whole crew. Mix up standard pancake batter (around $3 for mix, milk, and eggs), pour it onto a greased sheet pan, and bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes. Everything comes out golden and fluffy, then you just slice it into squares. Makes 6-8 servings for about 60 cents each. No standing at the stove flipping individual pancakes while everyone else eats. Top with whatever you’ve got: syrup, peanut butter, jam, or fresh fruit if you’re feeling fancy.

2. Scrambled Egg Quesadillas

When everyone says they want something different, but you have zero energy for creativity, this hits the spot. Scramble 6-8 eggs (you’re looking at $2.50), stuff them into flour tortillas with shredded cheese (around $3.50 for the tortillas and cheese together), fold in half, and toast in a skillet until crispy. Total cost comes in under $6 for 4-6 quesadillas. Takes maybe 10 minutes start to finish. Cut into triangles and serve with salsa or hot sauce. Even picky eaters demolish these.

3. Oatmeal Bar Setup

Set out a big pot of oatmeal with toppings and let everyone build their own bowl. A container of old-fashioned oats ($4) makes 12-15 servings, so you’re looking at maybe 30 cents per person. Simmer the oats with water or milk for 5 minutes, then put out brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins, nuts, honey, or whatever you’ve already got in the pantry. Takes 10 minutes total and keeps everyone happy because they’re “customizing” their breakfast. Works great for sleepovers when you have extra kids to feed.

4. Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Make a dozen on Sunday, and you’re set for busy mornings all week. Scramble a dozen eggs (about $5), cook up a pound of breakfast sausage (around $4), add shredded cheese and salsa, then wrap everything in tortillas (maybe $3 for a pack). The whole batch costs under $15 and gives you 12 burritos at about $1.25 each. Wrap them individually in foil, freeze them, and microwave for 90 seconds when you need one. Back when my kids were in school, they’d grab these on their way out the door.

5. Cinnamon Toast French Toast

For mornings when regular toast feels boring, but you don’t want to pull out a recipe. Whisk together 4 eggs and a splash of milk (costs about $2.50 total), add a big shake of cinnamon and a teaspoon of vanilla if you have it. Dip 8 slices of bread in the mixture and cook in a buttered skillet for 2-3 minutes per side. Serves 4 people for around 60 cents each in about 15 minutes. The cinnamon makes it smell amazing, which tricks everyone into thinking you tried harder than you did.

6. Yogurt Parfait Assembly Line

Kids go crazy for this one because it feels like dessert for breakfast. Set out plain or vanilla yogurt (around $4 for a big container), granola (about $3), and whatever fruit you have. Frozen berries work great and cost maybe $2.50 a bag. Everyone layers their own parfait in a cup or bowl. The whole setup totals under $10 and feeds 6-8 people. Takes zero actual cooking and maybe 5 minutes to put everything out. Feels fancy, but you just opened containers.

7. Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups

Spread peanut butter on a flour tortilla, lay a whole banana on top, roll it up tight, and slice into rounds. One jar of peanut butter (about $3) lasts for weeks, tortillas come to around $2.50, and bananas are maybe $1.50 for a bunch. You can make 4-6 roll-ups for under $5 total. Takes 3 minutes per roll-up, no cooking required. Serve with a glass of milk, and you’ve got protein, carbs, and fruit covered. My grandkids request these constantly.

8. Microwave Scrambled Eggs in a Mug

Beat 2 eggs in a microwave-safe mug with a splash of milk, add salt and pepper, and microwave for 45 seconds. Stir, then microwave another 30-45 seconds until set. Figure on maybe 75 cents per serving. Takes 2 minutes total, and you don’t even dirty a pan. Add shredded cheese, diced ham, or salsa if you want to dress it up. Perfect for when only one person needs breakfast, or everyone wants to eat at different times.

9. Bagel Bar Breakfast

Toast a bag of bagels (around $4 for six) and set out cream cheese, peanut butter, jam, butter, and sliced cheese. Everything together costs maybe $12, but you probably have most of it already. Each person toasts and tops their own bagel however they want. No cooking, no mess, done in 5 minutes. Serves 6 people for about $2 each. This saved me so many mornings when my kids were little, and I was too tired to function.

10. Baked Oatmeal Cups

Mix 3 cups of oats with 2 beaten eggs, 1 cup of milk, mashed banana, and cinnamon, then bake in a greased muffin tin at 350°F for 20 minutes. The whole batch comes in under $5 and makes 12 muffin-sized portions at about 40 cents each. Grab them cold or warmed up all week. They’re filling, naturally sweet from the banana, and work for breakfast or snacks. Add chocolate chips or berries if you’re feeling ambitious.

11. Breakfast Pizza on English Muffins

Split English muffins (around $3 for a pack of six), top each half with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage or bacon crumbles, and shredded cheese, then broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Costs about $8 total for 12 mini pizzas. Takes 15 minutes, including cooking the eggs and meat. Serves 4-6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is. Even teenagers who claim they hate breakfast eat these without complaining.

12. Banana Pancakes (Just Two Ingredients)

Mash 2 ripe bananas with 4 eggs until mostly smooth, then cook like regular pancakes in a buttered skillet. Costs about $1.50 total for 8-10 small pancakes that serve 3-4 people. Takes 10 minutes and uses bananas that are getting too brown for anyone to eat plain. They’re naturally sweet, so you barely need syrup. The texture’s a little different from regular pancakes. They’re fluffier and more custardy, which most people prefer. Great for when you’re out of pancake mix.

13. Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Brown a pound of breakfast sausage (around $4), mix with 8 beaten eggs (about $4) and a bag of frozen hash browns ($2.50), pour into a greased 9×13 pan, top with shredded cheese ($3), and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes. The whole thing costs under $15 and feeds 8-10 people for around $1.50 per serving. Assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. Guests always asked for this recipe when I made it for my kids’ sleepovers.

14. Smoothie Bowl Base

Blend 2 frozen bananas with a cup of frozen berries and a splash of milk until thick and scoopable. Costs about $2.50 for two big servings. Pour into bowls and top with granola, sliced fruit, coconut, or whatever needs to get used up. Takes 5 minutes and feels Instagram-worthy even though you’re half asleep. The frozen fruit makes it thick enough to eat with a spoon instead of drinking it. Way more filling than a regular smoothie.

15. Breakfast Grilled Cheese

Butter two slices of bread, add scrambled eggs and a slice of cheese between them, and grill in a skillet until golden on both sides. You’re looking at about $1 per sandwich, using eggs at around $4 per dozen, bread at $2.50 a loaf, and cheese you already have. Takes 8 minutes total. Serves one very happy person who now thinks you’re creative. The eggs stay put better than in a regular sandwich, and the whole thing just works. Add bacon or ham if you have it.

16. Overnight Oats Five Ways

Mix equal parts oats and milk in a jar the night before, add your flavor (peanut butter and banana, berries and honey, cinnamon and apple, chocolate chips and coconut, or just brown sugar). A container of oats ($4) makes 15 servings at roughly 25 cents each. Milk totals about $3.50 a gallon. Everything together comes to maybe $8 and feeds your family for days. Grab straight from the fridge in the morning, no heating required. The texture is creamy and pudding-like after sitting overnight.

17. Toad in a Hole (Egg in a Basket)

Cut a circle out of the center of bread slices using a cup or cookie cutter, butter both sides, crack an egg into the hole, and cook in a skillet for 3-4 minutes per side. Costs about 50 cents per serving using bread at $2.50 a loaf and eggs at around $4 a dozen. Takes 10 minutes and makes 4 servings. Kids think this is the coolest thing ever because the egg is inside the bread. Toast the cut-out circles too and use them for dipping in the runny yolk.

Your Mornings Just Got Easier

You’re not out of ideas because you’re failing at breakfast. You’re out of ideas because you’re exhausted, and mental energy is a real thing that gets depleted. These recipes exist for those mornings when your brain is still asleep, but your family needs food.

Start with Sheet Pan Pancakes if you need to feed multiple people without standing over a griddle, try Freezer Breakfast Burritos if you want to solve five mornings at once, or make Microwave Scrambled Eggs in a Mug when you need breakfast in two minutes. Each one removes a decision, simplifies a step, or buys you back time you don’t have. You’re doing the hard work of showing up every single morning. These recipes just make it possible to keep showing up without burning out. If you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas for busy mornings, consider overnight oats or smoothie packs that you can grab and go. Additionally, energy bites made ahead of time can provide a nutritious pick-me-up when you’re short on time. With these options, you won’t have to compromise on a healthy start to your day, no matter how hectic your schedule gets.

The post 17 Breakfast Recipes for When Your Brain Is Too Tired to Think appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Need a quick breakfast option that won’t break your budget? These no-bake oatmeal energy balls have become a morning staple in our house. Not only do they cost less than store-bought breakfast bars, but you can also make them in under 10 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.

Also See:

• Maple Blueberry Overnight Oatmeal
• Peach Cobbler Overnight Oatmeal
• Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal

No Bake Oatmeal Breakfast Bites

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• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom
• Prep Time: 10 min
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 20 oat balls
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup flax seed meal
• 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

• Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl until well combined
• Roll mixture into 1-tablespoon sized balls
• Place on a plate or rimmed baking sheet
• Chill in refrigerator for one hour
• Transfer to an airtight container

Notes

Storage: These breakfast bites stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Makes 20 balls.

Budget Tips:

• Buy oats in bulk when they go on sale
• Stock up on peanut butter during back-to-school sales
• Look for markdown prices on chocolate chips after the holiday season
• Use store-brand ingredients to cut costs further

My family grabs these on busy mornings or packs them for afternoon snacks. They’re filling, nutritious, and cost about 25 cents per serving – much cheaper than packaged alternatives. I often make a double batch when ingredients are on sale.

Quick Substitutions:

 

• Use smooth peanut butter if that’s what you have on hand
• Try almond butter for a different taste
• Add dried fruit instead of chocolate chips
• Use quick oats in place of rolled oats

The post No Bake Oatmeal Breakfast Bites appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Are you ready for a baking adventure that’ll make your kitchen smell like heaven and your family think you’ve become a master baker overnight? I’ve got a collection of dessert bread recipes that are so easy and delicious, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought loaves!

I’ve put together my favorite dessert bread recipes. From zesty Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Bread to indulgent Chocolate Cherry Pound Cake Loaf, we’ve got flavors to satisfy every craving. Got dietary restrictions? No worries! Our Gluten Free Banana Bread is so good, nobody will guess it’s GF.

Need to use up those garden veggies? Our Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread is the perfect solution. Craving fall flavors? Whip up our cozy Pumpkin Bread. Missing your favorite coffee shop treat? Try our Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf Bread and save some cash!

For a twist, our Buttery Beer Bread will wow at your next gathering. And don’t forget the Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Banana Bread – it might just become your new family favorite!

The best part? Most of these loaves need only 10 minutes of prep time. That’s less time than it takes to scroll through your social media feed!

So grab those loaf pans and let’s get baking! Whether you’re making Strawberry Cheesecake Bread for a decadent breakfast or Orange Loaf Cake to brighten a gloomy day, these recipes are sure to impress. Your family will thank you, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t start this bread-baking adventure sooner!

Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Bread

Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Bread – Homemade moist lemon bread with fresh blueberries with a lemon glaze. Get the recipe from Gather for Bread.

Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe

Easy gluten-free banana bread recipe you can make with the things you already have on hand! Get the recipe Penny Pinchin Mom.

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread recipe is a favorite for breakfast or dessert with a deliciously light crumb and plenty of lemon shining through. Get the recipe from Cooking Classy.

Strawberry Cheesecake Bread

If you like strawberries and cheesecake, this is a tasty treat. This strawberry cheesecake bread is good as is or with homemade strawberry glaze! Get the recipe from Macaroni & Cheesecake.

Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf Bread

Easy copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf or Starbucks Lemon Pound Cake! This is a simple dessert or breakfast recipe you can create at home – saving you big money! Get the recipe from Penny Pinchin Mom.

Pumpkin Bread

This homemade pumpkin bread recipe is super moist and easy to make. Get the recipe from Sugar and Charm.

Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Banana Bread

This has a delicious cinnamon swirl and cheesecake filling with walnuts hidden inside. This will easily be one of the best quick breads that you ever make! Get the recipe from The Recipe Critic.

Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread Recipe

This easy, healthy, and wholesome Greek yogurt zucchini bread could be your new favorite recipe for this classic quick bread! Get the recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction

Orange Loaf Cake Recipe

This Orange Loaf Cake is made with oil for an exceptionally moist, flavorful cake. Top with orange glaze for a stellar dessert – no mixer needed! Get the recipe from Borrowed Bites

Chocolate Cherry Pound Cake Loaf Recipe with Chocolate Ganache

Dark, rich and sweet, this chocolate cherry pound cake recipe has a melt in your mouth chocolate ganache glaze. Get the recipe from The Best Cake Recipes

Blueberry Muffin Bread

This Blueberry Bread is a scrumptious mix of juicy berries, citrusy-sweet lemon, & moist rich bread. This dessert is perfect anytime of day! Get the recipe from Simply Home Cooked

Buttery Beer Bread

There is nothing better than homebaked bread! The smell throughout your house – amazing! One of the simplest breads to make is beer bread. The reason – no yeast required! Get the recipe from Penny Pinchin Mom.

The post The BEST Easy Dessert Bread Recipes appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Many people suffer from gluten tolerance issues.  That means they can’t usually eat one of my favorite things – banana bread.  But, that’s about to change.I’ve created this simple recipe to make gluten-free banana bread.!

Even if you don’t have dietary restrictions, this bread is still going to be your favorite.  It is full of the flavor you love from banana nut bread but will be easier on your stomach too.

I took a classic recipe and changed it up so that just about anyone could enjoy it.  What’s even better is that if you don’t need to worry about gluten, you can use regular all-purpose flour and oats and it will still taste absolutely amazing!!

If you want to make your bread extra special, toss in some chocolate chips and see what happens!  It will make your taste buds dance!!!

Also See: Easy Dessert Bread Recipes

Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe

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• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose Gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup gluten-free oats
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup applesauce
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 TBSP vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease or butter loaf pan.
2. Mix flour, oats, white sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in eggs, vanilla extract, applesauce and mashed bananas and mix well.
4. Add walnuts (optional).
5. Pour batter into greased pan and bake for 45 minutes (or until a knife comes out clean).

The post Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

• Maple Blueberry Overnight Oatmeal
• Peach Cobbler Overnight Oatmeal
• Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal
• No Bake Oatmeal Breakfast Bites

No Cook – Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 1 min
• Total Time: 11 mins
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oatmeal
• ¼ cup plain greek yogurt
• 1 TBSP chia seeds
• 1 TBSP Maple Syrup
• ¼ cup pecans
• ½ ripe banana

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Instructions

1. In a pint size jar or container add uncooked oatmeal, yogurt, chia seeds and maple syrup.
2. Put on the lid and shake well.
3. Place in refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight. (This mixture will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator).
4. In the morning add bananas, and chopped pecans to the mixture. Top with a small drizzle of maple syrup.
5. Eat cold or microwave for 60 seconds.

The post No Cook – Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Get cozy and cuddle up with a warm cup of coffee, a blanket and one of these scrumptious Nutella Croissants. These easy to make croissants come together in less than 15 minutes and will simply melt in your mouth.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  You don’t want to skip it, but you certainly want to make sure you also enjoy it too!  One of my favorite toppings for bread is Nutella. I honestly wonder how I lived all these years without knowing about this spread!

I found a way to add a bit of an interesting twist to boring croissants.  I filled them with — Nutella!  Just wait until you taste these.  You’ll never go back to eating plain croissants ever again!!

Check out some of our other amazingly simple breakfast recipe ideas!

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NUTELLA CROISSANTS

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
• 1/2 cup Nutella
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 TBSP butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Pre-heat oven to 350.
2. Open up the packages of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls. Unroll and lay out flat on a counter. Cut into 8 triangular pieces (lines are already perforated).
3. Scoop about 1 TBSP of Nutella on each triangular piece.
4. Roll up a crescent triangle piece with Nutella starting from the largest side.
5. Place croissant roll-ups on a lightly greased baking sheet.
6. Lightly brush melted butter over the top of each croissant roll.
7. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let sit for about 5 minutes to cool. Lightly dust with powdered sugar. Eat while warm!

The post Nutella Croissants – 4 Ingredients or less! appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

When I think of fall, one food that comes to mind is apples.  Apple cider, apple butter, apple pie…..all things apple.  One thing you may love and think is difficult to make is apple jam.  You might be surprised at just how easily you can make this yourself (without all of the preservatives and additives you find in the store-bought items).

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Homemade Apple Jam

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• 6 large crisp apples
• 2 cups of apple cider
• 1 box of Pectin
• 1 cup of sugar
• 3 tbsp of cinnamon
• 4 8oz mason jars or 8 4oz jars

• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

1. Peel and finely chop apples.
2. In a large sauce pan place apples.
3. Add 1 cup of sugar and apple cider.
4. Over a medium heat let fruit cook for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Once it comes to a boil add one package of fruit pectin.
6. Stir fruit so it does not stick.
7. Continue cooking over medium heat until sauce becomes thick.
8. Ladle into mason jars.
9. Put on lids and put in the fridge.
10. Let cool for 1-2 hours.

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Instructions

If you do not like chunks, use a potato masher, immersion blender or food processor for about 1 minute.

The post Homemade Apple Jam appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

While coffee is what I most look forward to on any given morning, a hearty breakfast is a close second. 

Breakfast is important. It’s the meal that starts the day and provides your family with the energy needed to get moving.

When we’re out camping, I am all about the easy breakfast. With two energetic and hungry little boys, I want to serve food that is nutritious, delicious and requires minimal clean-up. Even though I love cooking around a campfire, I don’t want to spend the entire day preparing and picking up after our outdoor breakfasts. 

11 Easy Camping Breakfast Recipes 

Camping breakfasts don’t need to be boring to be easy. There is no need to settle for boxed cereal, peanut butter toast or plain scrambled eggs every morning. Our family has compiled a list of our top 11 easy camping breakfast ideas. These recipes are simple to make, taste great, and, for the most part, require minimal clean-up. 

1. Yogurt Parfait 

For a light and beautiful breakfast, try this yogurt parfait recipe. This simple camping breakfast idea can be made ahead of time and stored in mason jars until you and your family are ready to enjoy it. Fill your jars with your favorite yogurt, berries (you can choose fresh or frozen), and granola. It’s super easy to make, healthy, and delicious. 

2. Freezer Breakfast Sandwich

Start your day off right with a freezer breakfast sandwich. These breakfast sandwiches can be made ahead of time and then frozen. With baked eggs, your choice of ham or bacon, and a slice of cheddar cheese, these are one of our family favorites. When you’re ready to eat, these sandwiches are simple to heat up over the fire or camp stove. 

3. Beans on Toast 

To me, nothing says camping like beans on toast. It doesn’t get much easier than this. We use this recipe to prepare the baked beans from scratch ahead of time. However, you can also opt to keep things super simple and just bring a can of beans. Then all you have to do is brown up a few pieces of bread using your camping stove or fire and enjoy. There are almost no dishes and it’s a hearty meal that will keep your tummies full for hours. 

4. No-Bake Granola Bars

Full of healthy fats and lots of fiber, these no-bake granola bars are one of our favorite easy breakfast options. These can be made ahead of time and frozen until you are ready to hit the road. This camping meal is a great option for those who want to wake up, fuel up, and get on with the day.

5. Breakfast Quesadilla

Quesadillas are one of my go-to meals when we’re camping. This breakfast quesadilla recipe is easy to make, easy to clean up, and my kids love them. Quesadillas are also super simple to customize to your kids’ different tastes by changing up the veggies, meat, cheese options. We like to add a little freshness to our quesadillas by topping them with some ripe avocado and cut-up tomato. Save some clean-up time and manual labor by buying pre-shredded cheese.

6. Banana Zucchini Muffins 

Make these healthy banana zucchini muffins ahead of time for a quick and easy breakfast. Serve it with some cut-up fruit and you’re off to a good start. I love these muffins because I can pack them full of zucchini without my kids noticing and there is no white sugar. All of the sweetness comes from the bananas and your choice of honey or maple syrup. 

7. Cast Iron Frittata

No oven, no problem! This cast iron frittata recipe can be made over the fire. To get the perfect even cook, this camping recipe recommends using a cast-iron lid over your pan. If you don’t have a cast-iron lid, you can easily make do with a sheet of tinfoil. This is a great campfire breakfast idea for those who like to start the day with eggs.  

8. Campfire Cinnamon Roll-ups

This campfire cinnamon roll-up breakfast is bound to be a kid-friendly favorite. These cinnamon roll-ups are sweet, delicious and can be toasted over the campfire using a skewer or roasting stick. They are fun to prepare and to eat! 

9. Breakfast Hash 

All I can say about this camping breakfast hash brown recipe with butter, bell pepper, sausage and onion is yummmm! It’s hot, hearty, and can all be cooked in one cast iron pan. To make this breakfast hash even easier to prepare, you can cut up your veggies ahead of time and pre-cook your breakfast sausages.  

10. Fruit Kabobs

This fruit kabob recipe is technically a dessert, however, our family loves it as a sweet camping breakfast. All you need is a selection of grill-friendly fresh fruit (think peaches and pineapple), some honey, and lemon juice. You can grill your fruit kabobs on the grill or over the fire. 

11. Banana Pancakes

This list of easy camping breakfast ideas would not be complete without a pancake recipe. And, this banana pancake recipe will not disappoint. With bananas and walnuts, these pancakes are the right amount of sweet and the right amount of crunchy. Add maple syrup and you have a perfect camping breakfast. 

Breakfast is Better When You’re Camping 

To me, all food tastes better when I’m camping. I don’t know if it’s the extra flavor that comes from cooking over the campfire or the camp stove, or the fun of cooking and eating outside with family and friends. With the right recipes and the right preparation, your camping breakfasts can be just as nutritious and delicious as anything you would prepare in your home kitchen. 

Before you head out into the wilderness on your next camping adventure, review each recipe to ensure you have the proper cooking supplies and breakfast ingredients. I personally never go on a camping trip without my cast iron skillet — you can cook almost anything in a cast iron pan. And, of course, don’t forget the most important breakfast accompaniment — coffee!

What Are Your Easy Camping Breakfast Ideas? 

Our family is always looking to add some new and creative camping breakfast ideas to our roster. Do you have any easy camping breakfast recipes that have stood the test of time? What about any recipes that you would recommend your fellow campers avoid?

— By Jessica Martel

The post Easy Camping Breakfast Ideas appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

You might like apple butter, but if you have never tasted homemade apple butter, and I tell you that you are missing out! My husband spreads this on his English muffins or toast every morning. He was eating so much of it, that I knew I had to find out how to make it myself!

The best time of the year to make your apple butter is when apples are in season. They are affordable, and there is nothing more fun than an afternoon of apple picking.

There are plenty of crockpot recipes you can search for and create. But I don’t make mine that way. I prefer to stick with the old-fashioned method of cooking it in the oven. I just think the flavors meld better together.

Every time I go into the kitchen and make a batch of what my kids call “the best apple butter ever,” my entire house smells amazing. There is nothing like walking through the door and catching a whiff of the sweetly scented air. It screams fall – even if it isn’t!!!

My simple old fashioned apple recipe is below, but don’t forget to check out some of my other amazing and delicious apple-inspired recipes:

• Mini Apple Pies
• Caramel Apple Floats
• Copycat Starbucks Carmel Frappe Latte
• 25 delicious apple recipes

What is apple butter?

You may think that apple butter is a combination of apples and butter – but it isn’t.  In fact, there is absolutely no butter in apple butter.  Why we call it that, I have no idea.  It seems someone wasn’t thinking clearly when they came up with that name! In fact, the only thing it has in common with butter is how easy it is to spread.

Apple butter is concentrated applesauce.  That’s it.

What is the difference between applesauce and apple butter?

Both applesauce and apple butter are made using similar spices including cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg or other “warming spices.”  The difference between the two is that apple butter is pureed or chopped more finely and cooked much longer.  When finished, the result is a dark, caramelized spread exploding with intense apple flavor.

What are the best apples for applesauce?

When it comes to making apple butter, Granny Smith apples are the most popular choice due to their tart flavor and firm texture. However, other varieties such as McIntosh, Golden Delicious, Fuji, and Gala can also be used depending on your preference. Granny Smith apples will give you a more traditional apple butter flavor while McIntosh will give you a sweeter taste with a softer texture. Fuji apples have a slightly sweet taste with a crisp texture, while Gala apples are sweet and juicy. Depending on what flavors you prefer, any of these types of apples can be used in your apple butter recipe.

What do you use apple butter for?

Apple butter is commonly used on bread, toast or English Muffins.  You might also try an apple butter and peanut butter sandwich for lunch.  However, it can be used in other ways as well.

You can use it in sauces where you need a more concentrated flavor. It is also perfect for all of your fall baking!  There are several amazing recipes right on Pinterest that you can try.

Is it safe to can applesauce?

Canning applesauce is a great way to preserve the harvest and enjoy the delicious flavor of apples all year round. However, it is important to follow proper canning procedures in order to ensure that your canned applesauce is safe to eat.

Although canning is generally considered safe when done properly, there are some potential risks associated with it, such as botulism poisoning if food is not processed correctly or if it has not been stored properly after being canned. Therefore, it is important to ensure you follow all safety guidelines when preserving food items at home.

If you would like more information on how to safely can foods at home, there are many reputable sources available online, such as The National Center for Home Food Preservation.

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Homemade Apple Butter Recipe

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 mins
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• 4 lbs apples (I prefer Granny Smiths)
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 250.
2. Core and peel apples. Cut into bite-size pieces.
3. Combine apples, apple cider, brown sugar, honey, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a Dutch oven over medium heat. A slow cooker or instant pot can be used to speed things up.
4. Cook apples until soft (around 20 minutes). Stir often while cooking.
5. Remove from the heat and add lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla.
6. Puree the mixture until smooth (a blender works well for this).
7. Return the mixture to the Dutch oven and bake in the oven uncovered for 2.5 – 3 hours.
8. Stir every 30 minutes.
9. Cook until apples are the desired color, texture, and consistency.
10. Remove the cooked apple mixture from the oven and let it cool.
11. Transfer into an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.

The post Old Fashioned Apple Butter Recipe appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Every Sunday morning, we have breakfast together as a family. It is a tradition we’ve done ever since our kids were small. But, we also like to keep it simple. We almost always have bacon and also pancakes, french toast, or caramel rolls.

We sometimes have Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls because they are so easy to make. As delicious as they are, I also enjoy caramel rolls.  Homemade rolls are amazing, but I prefer a simpler recipe.

I created this super easy way to transform Rhodes frozen cinnamon rolls into caramel rolls!  If you can melt ingredients in a pot on the stove, you can make these rolls.   My recipe is super easy and takes three ingredients, which you probably already have on hand.

• Pro tip: These yummy rolls are an easy addition to a special occasion breakfast, like Christmas brunch! Get our other budget-friendly Christmas brunch options at How to Do Christmas on a Budget.

You will start by setting your rolls out to rise (according to package instructions). I usually set mine out at around 9:30 or 10:00 p.m.  They will rise while you sleep.

While the oven is preheating, you will make your caramel by mixing the brown sugar, water, and butter.  Allow to boil, and then pour over the top of the rolls. Then, bake according to the package (usually 17 – 18 minutes at 350).

As soon as they are done, pull them out and using a cookie sheet, invert the pan.  You will need to do so in one quick motion.  Allow them to cool for a little so the caramel can set up on the rolls.  That’s all it takes to make caramel rolls out of frozen cinnamon rolls — so easy!

Serve and enjoy!

Also See:

• The BEST Easy Dessert Bread Recipes
• Heart Shaped Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Rhodes Caramel Rolls

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If you throw these in the fridge to rise the night before, they’ll be ready to toss in the oven when you get up in the morning.

• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 3-5 hours
• Cook Time: 18 mins
• Total Time: 4 hours 18 minutes
• Yield: 6-8
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• 1 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 3 Tbs. butter or margarine
• 2 – 3 Tbs. water
• 6 – 8 frozen Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls

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Instructions

1. Spray a 9” x 13” baking pan with cooking spray.
2. Place frozen rolls evenly on the pan and cover them with plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray to keep them from sticking to the rolls while rising.
3. Let rise on the counter for 3 to 5 hours until rolls double in size (you can also let them rise in the fridge for 8-16 hours). The actual time depends on the temperature of your kitchen. Do not overproof. Rolls will continue to rise while baking.
4. Once rolls are ready, combine brown sugar and butter in a saucepan.
5. Bring mixture to a boil and stir for one minute.
6. Pour the mixture over the rolls.
7. Bake at 350 for 15 – 18 minutes (or until rolls are golden brown).
8. After removing the cinnamon rolls from the oven, allow them to cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
9. Place parchment paper over the cinnamon rolls, followed by a baking sheet. Quickly flip everything 180 degrees. This way, you can serve the cinnamon rolls directly on a serving plate, making transferring them much easier.

Notes

For best results, use a cookie sheet to invert the rolls.  Place the sheet upside down over the top of the pan of rolls.  Use a quick motion and turn the pan with the rolls upside down, thereby putting them on the cookie sheet.

*Store leftover rolls in an air-tight container in the pantry for up to five (5) days.

The post Rhodes Caramel Rolls Recipe appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Eggs Benedict is a popular breakfast food. But, I don’t like to take the time to make it in the morning. That’s why usually make this Eggs Benedict casserole instead.

I love easy meals. As you’ve probably seen on my site, I love meals that can be made quickly, but are full of flavor and good nutrients for my family!

This Eggs Benedict Casserole is prepped the night before so breakfast doesn’t have to be such a rush in the morning. It’s delicious and simple and is one of our favorites!

Eggs Benedict Casserole uses pre-made English muffins so there’s no baking involved. If you can stir a sauce, and cut some bread, you can make this casserole with ease!

• Pro tip: This casserole is an easy addition to a special occasion breakfast, like Christmas brunch! Get our other budget-friendly Christmas brunch options at How to Do Christmas on a Budget.

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Eggs Benedict Casserole

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• Author: SammieB
• Prep Time: 20
• Cook Time: 50
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

CASSEROLE

• 6 english muffins, cubed
• 8 eggs, scrambled
• 16 oz package of cubed ham
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• salt and pepper to taste

SAUCE:

• 4 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Turn the oven broiler onto high.
2. Place the cubed English muffins on a cookie sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes.
3. Flip the cubes over and broil for another 1-2 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, onion powder and salt and pepper together.
5. Pour the mixture over the English muffin cubes.
6. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
7. In the morning, sprinkle the ham over the mixture.
8. Bake covered at 375 for 35 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven and uncover the dish.
10. Bake for another 20 minutes at 375.
11. While it bakes, prepare the sauce.
12. In a double boiler, combine the egg yolks, heavy whipping cream, mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk non-stop until the sauce is thick enough that it will coat the back of your spoon.
13. Remove from the heat and add the butter.
14. Pour the sauce over the casserole fresh from the oven and serve immediately.

The post Eggs Benedict Casserole appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Looking for a quick, easy and delicious breakfast? Try one of these!I don’t always have a ton of extra time in the morning to plan, prep and cook a delicious breakfast. But I feel guilty all afternoon sending the kids off to school with out a half way decent breakfast. So I have started cooking big breakfasts at least 3 times a week.

To make it easier on my, all three of those meals take 30 minutes or less. Here are some of my favorites

Fruit Loop Waffles

Cheesy Puff Pastry Baked Eggs

Breakfast Quesadillas

Mini Fruit Pizzas

Glazed Donut Holes

Easy Breakfast Muffins

Mexican Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast Sliders

Breakfast Bruschett

Turkey Sausage Pizza

BLT Breakfast Pizza

Breakfast Tostadas

Easy Breakfast Bites

Breakfast Brownies

Breakfast Sandwich Pudding

Egg Frittata Breakfast Muffins

The post Delicious Breakfasts In Under 30 Minutes appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

You don’t have to make everything pumpkin spice flavored to make it appropriate for fall! These Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are adorable, and take little to no effort to make. You don’t need any crazy ingredients, or a ton of time. It only takes an extra two minutes to make these Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls instead of regular ones!

What’s great about these Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls is that you don’t need to even make the cinnamon rolls, or the frosting. This recipe uses canned cinnamon rolls, and the icing that comes with it. It’s so simple, and you’ll love how cute they turn out!

All you need to do to make these, is to open the can of cinnamon rolls. Place them on a pan, two inches apart. Simply unroll the top two inches of the cinnamon roll, and flip it upwards, to make it look like a stem for the pumpkin. Bake the cinnamon rolls as directed on the pan.

While they cook, take about a  third of the icing out of the container with a spoon, and put it in a small bowl. Add green food coloring to the smaller portion of icing, and orange food coloring to the larger portion of icing. Mix both icing colors well. When the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the green icing on just the stem portion, and the orange icing on just the round portion.

That’s it! That’s all there is to making Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. They’re the perfect Halloween breakfast, fall treat or just great with a cup of coffee on a cool day! We love cinnamon rolls at any time of the year, but the shape of these makes them perfect for Autumn.

If you like these, you should also check out:

Pumpkin Pie Dip

Pumpkin Cheesecake Layered Dessert

The post Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

This pineapple fruit bowl is a fun way to add whimsy to your next party.

Summer is such a great time for produce. Not only is produce cheaper in the summer, but it also tastes better because it’s in season. We love fruit around here! Sometimes I like to have a prettier display for fruit than just a regular bowl, and it’s the fruit itself! This Pineapple Fruit Bowl is easy to make, and makes for an awesome display piece!

A Pineapple Fruit Bowl is easy to pull together, even as a last minute idea, and looks really good sitting on the table! You don’t need any special tools to do it, just a sharp knife and a spoon. Let’s get making!

Other recipes you’ll want to try:

• No Bake Blackberry Cheesecake
• Mini Apple Pies
• Springtime Krispie Treat Cupcakes

HOW TO MAKE A PINEAPPLE FRUIT BOWL

To start, get a sharp knife, your pineapple, and a cutting board. Use your knife and cut off the side of the pineapple to the right of it’s leafy top. Don’t cut the pineapple in half, because you want the pineapple to make a bowl big enough to hold fruit. Leave the green leafy part completely attached to the top, for presentation.

Next, cut out the inside of the pineapple to make the bowl. Use your knife to cut down along the outer edge of the pineapple. Cut the fruit into slices before removing it from the pineapple itself. Use a large spoon to remove the core as well. Scoop out the inside until you’ve achieved the bowl shape you want.

Cut the pineapple wedges you removed from the pineapple itself into pieces and return it to the Pineapple Fruit Bowl. Add in other fruits to make your fruit bowl complete! We used blackberries and cherries, but you could also use strawberries, blueberries, mangoes, bananas, kiwi and more!

The post Pineapple Fruit Bowl appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

My family and I love fruit for dessert. It can be a healthier way to satisfy our sweet tooth. One of our go-to fruit desserts is fruit pizza – they are refreshing but not overly sweet and are relatively simple to make. But sometimes, a full-sized one is just too much for us, so we make these mini fruit pizza cookies instead! That way, I can make fruit pizza for dessert when we want it, and I don’t have to worry about any of my fresh fruit (or money) going to waste.

We’ve made a much larger fruit pizza sugar cookie in the past, but I found that the slices were a bit too big. In my effort to control portion sizes, I looked for a small sugar cookie. That’s when it hit me! Why not make mini fruit pizzas?

I happened to be in a hurry that day and did not have time to make a batch of homemade sugar cookies, so I grabbed a roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough from the store instead. Then, I whipped the spread, sliced up the fruit, and created my mini desserts. And my family was happy to enjoy the results!

Whenever I made the larger version, the cookie tended to get soggy after a while. But I don’t have that issue with these. I bake a batch of cookies and leave the toppings in the refrigerator. Then, we each grab a cookie and create our own “pizzas” when we want them, so they are always made fresh. And, everyone gets to create their customized version!

My oldest daughter goes for strawberries and kiwi. My son prefers sliced blueberries, and my youngest grabs every fresh fruit she can. It’s been a fun way to get them into the kitchen and create something that is not overly sweet. I hope you enjoy these mini fruit pizza cookies as much as we do!

Also, if you like easy summer desserts, you may want to check out these posts, too:

• Patriotic Fruit Flag
• Pineapple Icebox Dessert
• No-Churn Cookies & Cream Ice Cream
• Watermelon Sugar Cookies
• Zucchini Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
• No Bake Blackberry Cheesecake Cups

Easy Mini Fruit Pizza Recipe

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A simple single-serve dessert idea that is perfectly refreshing.

• Author: Sammie
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 12 mins
• Total Time: 27 mins
• Yield: 12-15
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• Refrigerated sugar cookie dough
• 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened (can substitute Cool Whip or whipped cream)
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup of mixed fruits, chopped

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Instructions

1. Bake the sugar cookies as directed.
2. In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Allow the cookies to cool completely.
4. Wash and chop fresh fruit into small pieces. We used kiwi, blueberries, and strawberries.
5. Store fruit and cream cheese mixture in the refrigerator until ready to serve cookies.
6. When ready to enjoy cookies, spread a heaping spoon of the cream cheese mixture on top of the sugar cookies.
7. Top the Easy Mini Fruit Pizzas with the pieces of your favorite fruits.
8. Serve immediately.

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Blueberries are a warm-weather favorite at our house. When the summer comes, their prices drop, and if you live near a blueberry farm, you can pick them yourself! A great way to use blueberries (other than eating them freshly picked, of course),  is to make a super simple, easy blueberry compote out of them.

Compote can be used as a topping for many things like ice cream, french toast, pancakes, or waffles, cheesecake, and so much more! Sometimes I eat the compote all by itself. Yep.  It is that good.

It only requires just a few simple ingredients and just ten minutes to make. Before the summer is over, you just have to make this easy blueberry compote.

This is a great way to use up blueberries that are beginning to soften.  You can also use this to create a dessert with less sugar and carbs.

It’s the perfect, light, summer dessert for a special occasion or any day of the week! I like to make it in advance, and store it in a jar in the fridge to make breakfast a little extra special one morning. It can take pancakes from boring to fancy in no time at all.

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Easy Blueberry Compote

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• Author: Sammie
• Prep Time: 2 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 12 mins
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh blueberries
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon honey

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Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a sauce pan over the stove, and set the heat to medium high.
2. Bring the mixture to a soft boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Allow the mixture to thicken, stirring often, for 8-10 minutes.
4. Once the mixture has thickened to a runny, pie-filling consistency, it’s finished.
5. Top your favorite dessert with this easy blueberry compote, or eat it as is.
6. Allow to cool for two minutes before serving.

The post Easy Blueberry Compote appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Overnight oatmeals are becoming more and more popular.  The reason is that you can create it at night and it is ready for you to have to eat in the morning, making for a fast, yet healthy breakfast.  There are many different options you can try, but you need to give raspberry cashew oatmeal a try!

Overnight oatmeals are not only extremely easy to make they are addicting. Try this sweet Raspberry Cashew Overnight Oatmeal.  Having overnight oatmeal makes your mornings so much better as breakfast is already made for you!

Even better, you can take it with you to work and eat at your desk if you are running short on time.  Just be careful – you might make your co-workers jealous!

A few things to keep in mind when you make overnight oatmeal:

• Use almond or soy milk
• Don’t add the nuts or fruits until the morning (or they will get soggy)
• Mix it in a jar with a lid so you can seal it tight and take it with you
• You can use either steel-cut or traditional oats as both work the same.

Once you make one variety of oatmeal, you will want to give others a try as well.  Here are some I’ve created that are beyond delish!!

• Maple Blueberry Overnight Oatmeal
• Peach Cobbler Overnight Oatmeal
• Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal

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Raspberry Cashew Overnight Oatmeal

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• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled or steel-cut oats
• 1/4 cup plain or vanilla greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk of choice (Almond, Soy, etc.)
• 1 Tbsp Chia Seeds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
• 2 Tbsp Raspberry preserves
• 2 Tbsp Cashews, slivered

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Instructions

1. Place raw oatmeal, yogurt, chia seeds and milk in a pint-sized jar or container (make sure you place them in THIS order).
2. Put on the lid and shake until mixed.
3. Tighten lid and place in the refrigerator to sit overnight. When you wake up in the morning, the oatmeal will be soft as though it was cooked!
4. Add raspberry preserves, fresh raspberries, and cashews. Mix well and enjoy!

The post Raspberry Cashew Overnight Oatmeal appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

These heart shaped cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to start your day!

You will not believe just how simple and easy these Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Rolls really are! If you can cook a can of cinnamon rolls, I promise you can make these beauties with ease! To get started, preheat your oven, grab your can of cinnamon rolls, and let’s bake!

SUPPLIES

• Can of canned cinnamon rolls (the large ones work best)
• Cream cheese frosting
• Pink food dye (gel or liquid)
• Valentine’s Sprinkles (optional)

Separate each roll from the package.  Carefully unroll about one-half of the dough from the roll and then roll it back into itself.  Just make sure you leave a little excess in the middle, so you can form the point of the heart.

Pinch the bottom together to make the strong point.  Ensure they are rolled tightly, as they will spread as they bake.

Bake according to the package instructions.

When they come out of the oven, they should look something like the image above.

Next up – time to tint your icing!  Add a few drops of of coloring into the icing cup.  Mix it well.  Drizzle over the top of the rolls using a fork.  If you decide you want to add sprinkles, make sure you do so while before the icing dries.

You’ve now got a fun and simple (yet affordable) breakfast for Valentine’s Day or any day you want to tell someone you love them!!

The post Easy Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Christmas tree waffles are a tradition in our house.  My kids look forward to them every single year.  And, if we don’t make them, they are very disappointed (lesson learned).

If there is any day of the year when candy is acceptable for breakfast….it’s Christmas. For years, our kids have enjoyed Christmas tree waffles on Christmas morning.  It is a fun way to get them into the kitchen.  I mean, who wouldn’t love these?

Check out more fun ideas for Christmas brunch at How to Do Christmas on a Budget.

MAKING CHRISTMAS TREE WAFFLES

You’ll need just a few items:

Waffle Mix
Eggs
Green food coloring (I recommend Wilton gel to get it bright green)
M&Ms or other small candies
Sugar Cookie star (or other food item cut in the shape of a star.

Prepare your waffle batter according to the package instructions.  Add a bit of green food coloring and mix until well blended. Prepare the waffles in your waffle maker as directed.

Once done, split the waffle into four triangles.  Arrange 3 of them on top of one another and top with M&Ms.  We top ours off with a sugar cookie star.

That’s it.  A simple way to bring a bit of fun to your kids on Christmas morning.

What are you Christmas morning traditions?

.

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Thanksgiving isn’t far off, and I always love to have fun, festive treats planned out for my family to help make together. These adorable Thanksgiving Pilgrim Hat treats are fun and fast, and super yummy!

SUPPLIES:

Fudge Stripe Cookies
Mini Reese’s Cups
Yellow Writing Icing

Unwrap the mini Reese’s and flip the fudge stripe cookies upside down. You will need an even amount of Reese’s and fudge stripe cookies (unless you want extras to snack on while you work…like I did).

Use your writing icing, and place a generous dot of icing right in the center of the bottom of the fudge stripe cookie, and press your mini Reese’s down onto it, with the widest part facing downward — like a hat would look.

Place a stripe of yellow icing around towards the bottom of the Reese’s.  However, do not get too close as you need to add a buckle to the center of the icing.  Once the stripe is done, add your square for the buckle of the hat.

That’s all it takes to make this simple – yet fun – treat for Thanksgiving.

The post DIY Thanksgiving Pilgrim Hat Treats appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Pumpkin muffins are the perfect way to start your morning this fall.  They are bursting with the spices you love and are topped with the best frosting for the perfect finish.

Fall means all things pumpkin spice!  If you want to fit in your favorite flavor as many times a day a possible, then these muffins are the answer.  Grab a muffin as you run out the door on your way to work.  Best of all, even your kids will love these!

Pumpkin spice muffins are also an easy addition to a special occasion breakfast, like Christmas brunch! Get our other budget-friendly Christmas brunch options at How to Do Christmas on a Budget.

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Pumpkin Muffins

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Yield: 12
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• Muffin Ingredients[br
• ]3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
• 8 oz.cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)

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Instructions

1. Muffin Instructions
2. Preheat oven to 350° F and line muffin tins with liners
3. Stir together flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda and salt.
4. In a separate large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil and juice.
5. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
6. Spoon batter into muffin cups about 3/4 way full.
7. Bake for 35 minutes.
8. Frosting Instructions
9. Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until creamy
10. Gradually blend in powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy

Recipe adapted from Very Best Baking.

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Today you can buy a box mix for just about anything you may want to make.  The issue is that these mixes often contain things you may not want.  Not only that, sometimes, it is just fun to make your own products!

I’ve rounded up some of the best mixes you can find online, and put them here in just one place so you can find what you need when you are ready to mix it up!   To find the details and the recipe, just click on the link or the photo and we’ll get you the details you need to make it.

1. Homemade Bisquick from Kitchen Nostalgia.

2. Homemade Brownie Mix by Today’s Creative Life.

3. Homemade Yellow and Chocolate Cake Mixes created by A Few Short Cuts.

4. Homemade Cornbread Mix by Wicked Good Kitchen.

5. Homemade Pancake Mix courtesy of Cooking Classy.

6. Homemade Onion Soup Mix from Culinary Hill.

7. Homemade Taco Seasoning from The Country Cook.

8. Homemade Greek Seasoning by The Hill Hangout.

9. Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix courtesy of Add a Pinch.

10. Homemade Sloppy Joe Seasoning Mix from Not Quite Susie.

11. Homemade Burger Seasoning from It’s a Keeper.

12. Homemade Chocolate Pudding Mix from Country Cleaver.

13.  Homemade Nesquick Mix by Penny Pinchin’ Mom.

14.  Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice by Ten at the Table.

15. Homemade Chai Spice Mix from Graceful Little Honey Bee.

The post Homemade Mixes (Bisquick, Nesquick, Cakes and More)! appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Oven-baked French toast is an easy way to make a large amount of French toast at once!  Make extra on Sunday and have breakfast for every day of the week.

French toast is one of my favorite breakfast dishes. It brings back memories of when I was a little girl and went to my grandma’s house for the holidays. It holds a special place in my heart.

You are probably like me and make it on the stove. But did you know you can make French toast in the oven? We have a family of five, so using one pan to make breakfast on a Sunday morning takes a lot of time.

I can make an entire batch of French toast at once by using this simple oven-baked method. Best of all  – you are not sacrificing the flavor at all.  You are just making it easy on yourself!

• Pro tip: French toast is the perfect special occasion breakfast, like Christmas brunch! For other budget-friendly Christmas brunch options, see How to Do Christmas on a Budget.

Other Recipes You May Be Interested In

• Rhodes Caramel Rolls Recipe
• Easy Blueberry Compote
• Zucchini Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting

Oven French Toast

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Make your french toast in the oven instead of standing at the stove making 3 – 4 slices at a time.  It’s the perfect way to feed a crowd (or have leftovers for breakfast tomorrow).

• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 10
• Cuisine: Breakfast

Ingredients

• 8 – 10 slices of Texas Toast
• 2 cups of milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tablespoon of cinnamon
• Cookie sheet
• Cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Spray the cookie sheet with cooking spray.
2. Combine milk, eggs, and cinnamon in a bowl.
3. Dip bread into the mixture so that it is completely covered (but the bread is not soaked through)
4. Place on cookie sheet.
5. Repeat for all slices
6. Bake at 375 for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through baking.

Notes

To add a bit of pizzaz, you can add toppings like my blueberry compote or a whipped topping.

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Who doesn’t love a decadent treat once in a while? I know I do!  Of course, I don’t like to go too far overboard and do what I can to ensure that I am still getting something good for me at the same time.

That is why these fresh blueberry puffs are one of my favorites!  I get all the sweet, but it still has fresh fruit so I don’t feel quite as guilty!

The breakfast puffs are super easy to make and you can switch out the blueberries for any other fruits you may want to try.  I’ve made them with raspberries, blackberries and even mixed fruit and they are delicious every single time.

These are one of my favorite breakfast treats – because it feels like you are starting your day off with dessert!

Also, if you like easy summer desserts, you may want to check out these posts, too:

• Mini Fruit Pizza
• Pineapple Icebox Dessert
• No-Churn Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

Fresh Blueberry Puffs

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• Author: Tracie
• Cuisine: Dessert

Ingredients

• 2–3 cans of crescents
• 2 cups of fresh blueberries
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup water

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together blueberries, sugar, cinnamon, flour, and water. Mix well.
2. Take two crescents and separately, make them into balls of dough.
3. Roll both balls out to be flat like a mini pie crust or pizza crust.
4. In the middle of one of these flattened balls of dough, place a spoonful or two of blueberry mixture.
5. Take the other flattened ball of dough and lay it over the top of the blueberry mixture like the top of a pie.
6. Mold the edges of the top dough into the bottom dough to seal in the blueberry mixture.
7. Trim extra dough if needed.
8. Bake at 325 degrees for about 30 minutes or until the middle is no longer doughy.

Notes

The middle will still look slightly gooey due to the mixture. Once out of the oven and cooled, the inside will no longer be gooey

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Overnight oatmeal is popular because it is an easy way to have a healthy breakfast in just minutes each morning.  There are many ways to make it, but you will want to try maple blueberry oatmeal.  It’s a thing.  And it’s delicious.

This is truly heaven in a jar!  Love that I can make it up at night, and it is ready for me in the morning (my kind of breakfast)!  Get the tips to make your very own Blueberry Overnight Oatmeal.  It is easy to make and like I said…you wake, and it is waiting for you to eat at home or even take with you to work!

More incredible breakfast recipes:

• Nutella Croissants
• No Bake Oatmeal Breakfast Bites
• Peach Cobbler Overnight Oatmeal
• Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal

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Maple Blueberry Overnight Oatmeal

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• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Rolled Oatmeal
• 1 TBSP Chia Seeds
• 2 TBSP Plain Greek Yogurt
• 1/4 cup Almond or Coconut Milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/4 cup Blueberries
• 1 TBSP Maple Syrup or brown sugar
• Light dusting of Cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Put raw oatmeal, yogurt, chia seeds and milk in a pint-sized jar or container.
2. Place the lid on tightly and shake until mixed well.
3. Put in the refrigerator to sit overnight.
4. In the morning, mix blueberries and maple syrup together.
5. Heat in the microwave for 45 seconds or until blueberries begin to burst.
6. Add blueberries to your oatmeal mixture and stir.
7. Top with a few extra fresh blueberries and a light dusting of cinnamon.

The post Maple Blueberry Overnight Oatmeal appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

One of the newest trends in both convenience and weight loss is overnight oatmeal.  Oats can be a powerful weapon in your weight loss battle. By making them overnight, they are easy to grab, ensuring you eat a healthy breakfast, even on the run.

I’ll get to my amazing peach cobbler overnight oats recipe in a minute.  But, if you have never made oatmeal like this before, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.  Otherwise, it may not turn out quite the way you hope.

TRICKS TO MAKING OVERNIGHT OATMEAL

DON’T USE WATER

As tempting and easy as it is to use water, it may not produce the best flavor. Stick with almond or cashew milk.  It will give your oatmeal a rich, creamy texture.

USE THE RIGHT TYPE OF OATS

There are two types of oats you can use for your overnight oatmeal:  steel or rolled.  The way to know the difference is that if you like to taste the oats, stick with steel.  Don’t want to?  Then rolled is the one for you.

ADD THE TOPPINGS AT THE RIGHT TIME

You should wait to add your toppings until the morning.  Otherwise, your fruit and nuts might end up soggy – and that does not taste good.

The only exception to this is chia seeds (which I use in this recipe below).  They need time to absorb liquid, so adding them overnight helps that process.

USE THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF LIQUID

If you don’t use enough and your oats will be thick, pasty and chewy.  If you use too much, your oatmeal will be more like soup.  Carefully follow the recipes you try as they have (usually) been tested.

USE JARS WITH LIDS

If you want to take it with you to the office, make sure you create your overnight oatmeal in a container that you can take with you. I recommend a jar because it can seal completely closed and there is less chance of liquid leaking onto your seat or in your bag.

Now that you know a few things about making your oatmeal, let’s get to the fun part – the recipe!  This peach cobbler oatmeal tastes just like the dessert!!  And,  this is an easy recipe that takes a few minutes to make a night. Mix it up before you go to bed and breakfast will be waiting for you in the morning!

Checkout out the Maple Blueberry and Banana Pecan Recipes as well!

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Peach Cobbler Overnight Oatmeal

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• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup oats (steel or rolled)
• 1/4 cup plain or vanilla greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk of choice (Almond or Cashew)
• 1 Tbsp Chia Seeds
• Dash of cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup peaches

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Instructions

1. In this order place: raw oatmeal, yogurt, chia seeds and milk in a pint-sized jar or container.
2. Place the lid on tightly and shake until mixed well.
3. Add vanilla and cinnamon.
4. Tighten lid and place in the refrigerator to sit overnight.
5. In the morning, add the diced peaches.

The post Peach Cobbler Oatmeal (Overnight Recipe) appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

My kids love pop tarts.  But, I don’t like how much sugar they have.  It is not the way I want they to start out the day.  I found a way to make them pop tarts at home – so they have less sugar but all of the flavor!

Check out this awesome recipe for homemade raspberry pop tarts!  They are so easy to make your kids can help you. Plus you can swap out the ingredients to make whatever flavor you want – raspberry, strawberry, smore’s, Nutella – the options are limitless!

More incredible breakfast recipes you need to try:

• Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
• Nutella Croissants
• Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal

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Homemade Raspberry Pop Tarts

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Category: Breakfast

Ingredients

• 2 refrigerated pie crusts (or make your own)
• 1/2 cup Raspberry Jam
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon milk (or water)
• White Icing and Sprinkles (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Cut pie dough into 6 evenly sized rectangles. Repeat with the second pie crust.
3. Lay parchment paper out onto a baking sheet and carefully place 6 of the rectangles 2″ inches apart.
4. With a fork gently poke 3-4 sets of small holes into rectangle pieces.
5. Spread 1 tablespoon of raspberry jam onto each rectangle.
6. Place a second rectangle over top each Raspberry filled rectangle.
7. Using a fork lightly press the edges of the rectangles together to make pretty crimped edges.
8. Using that same fork poke 3-4 sets of holes on the top rectangle pieces.
9. In a small bowl whisk the yolk of one egg and milk together. Lightly brush each pop tart with mixture.
10. Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Remove from oven and immediately drizzle icing and top with sprinkles.
12. Let cool and serve!

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