Sunday Morning Tradition: A Special Breakfast to Remember

There's nothing quite like waking up early on a Sunday morning to the smell of fresh, warm bagels straight from the oven. This weekend I made Montreal-style bagels, a nostalgic favorite from my university days. I had a house full flour, and fun as I whipped up a breakfast feast with bagels, cream cheese, fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and cold cuts.

If you’re craving the sweet, chewy perfection of Montreal bagels and can’t find them locally, this easy homemade recipe will become your go-to. Whether you knead by hand or use a breadmaker, the results are absolutely delicious.

Ingredients List

Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water

• 5 tablespoons sugar

• 3 tablespoons canola oil

• 1 package (8g) dry active yeast (not instant)

• 1 small egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon malt drink powder or syrup

• 4 1/2 cups unbleached (or all-purpose) flour

• 1 teaspoon kosher or regular salt

Boil & Toppings:

• 6 quarts water

• 1/3 cup honey

• 1/2 cup sesame seeds or poppy seeds (or both!)

How to Make Montreal Style Bagels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, canola oil, yeast, egg, and malt syrup until yeast dissolves.

2. Stir in salt and 1 cup of flour. Gradually add more flour (around 3 cups) until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rest

3. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes, adding flour as needed, until it's smooth and firm.

4. Cover with an inverted bowl and let rest for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Bagels

5. Divide dough into 12 equal parts. Roll each into a 10-inch rope and form into a ring, pressing the ends together (use water if needed to seal).

6. Let the shaped bagels rise for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Boil with Honey

7. Fill a large pot with 6 quarts of water and stir in honey. Bring to a boil.

8. Boil 4 bagels at a time for 90 seconds, flipping at 45 seconds. Remove and pat dry with clean towels.

Step 5: Add Seeds and Bake

9. Preheat oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment.

10. Sprinkle boiled bagels generously with sesame or poppy seeds.

11. Bake for 8 minutes, flip, and bake another 5–8 minutes depending on your oven. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Tips for Perfect Montreal Bagels

• Watch the Oven: These bagels bake quickly. Adjust times based on your oven.

• Get Creative with Toppings: Try everything bagel mix, dried onion, or even cinnamon sugar.

• Use a Breadmaker: Use the dough cycle for hands-off kneading.

• Boiling is Key: Don’t skip the honey water – it gives that iconic crust and sweetness.

Final Thoughts: Food, Family, and Memories

Bagels might just be flour and water, but when made with love and shared with family, they become something much more. I hope you give this recipe a try and create your own kitchen memories.

Looking for a delicious, lighter comfort food recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Chicken with Tomato, Three Cheeses, and Olives is exactly that! It’s a lightened-up version of a classic breaded chicken dish, inspired by Rose Reisman’s Family Favorites cookbook. The result? A cheesy, flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Flavorful – A lighter take on breaded chicken while keeping all the cheesy goodness.

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

• Customizable – Swap out the cheeses, tomatoes, or olives to suit your tastes!

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp skim milk

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tsp vegetable oil

Toppings:

• 1 1/2 cup diced vine or plum tomatoes

• 1/2 cup shredded Asiago cheese

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped green olives

• 1 tsp chopped garlic

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 3 tbsp fresh chopped basil

• 2 tsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a 9x13 casserole dish with cooking spray.

Pound the chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.

2. Bread and Sear the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Dip each chicken breast into the mixture, then coat lightly with breadcrumbs on a separate plate.

Heat 2 tsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish.

3. Add the Cheese and Tomato Topping

In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, Asiago, goat cheese, Parmesan, olives, garlic, and dried basil. Spoon the mixture evenly over the chicken.

4. Bake to Perfection

Cover and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Remove the cover and bake for an additional 3 minutes to slightly crisp the topping.

5. Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh basil and serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken with Tomato, Three Cheeses, and Olives

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh basil and vine-ripened tomatoes elevate the flavors.

• Try different cheese combos – Swap Asiago for Havarti or add feta for a tangy kick.

• Make it crispy – If you love extra crunch, lightly spray the breadcrumbs with cooking spray before searing.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken with Tomato, Three Cheeses, and Olives is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, cheesy dish without feeling too heavy. It’s an easy, 30-minute meal that’s great for busy nights while still feeling gourmet. The mix of savory cheeses, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives makes for an unbeatable combination.

Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Nothing beats a comforting homemade spaghetti sauce, especially when it’s packed with fresh ingredients and a touch of personal flair. This Yummy Spaghetti Sauce is a traditional tomato-meat sauce with a twist — adding a shredded carrot to reduce acidity, making it perfect for anyone with reflux issues. It's a staple in my home and a go-to recipe after a long vacation when I crave something hearty and comforting. Whether you're serving it over spaghetti, gnocchi, rotini, or even ravioli, this sauce is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Yummy Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

• Reduced acidity: The addition of shredded carrot makes this sauce easier on the stomach without sacrificing flavor.

• Rich and flavorful: Ground beef, veal, and Molisana sausage bring a savory, hearty depth.

• Simple one-pot recipe: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy the meal.

• Customizable: Use fresh tomatoes during the summer for an even more vibrant, fresh flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 small cans of tomato paste

• 2 (690 ml) cans of simple tomato sauce

• 2 (796 ml) cans of diced tomatoes

• 2 lbs extra-lean ground beef

• 2 lbs lean ground veal

• 1 shredded carrot (to reduce acidity)

• Fresh basil to taste (usually about 10 fresh leaves, chopped)

• 1 jar of Molisana Sausage (cut into small bits)

• Fresh tomatoes (optional, for summer use)

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef, veal, and minced garlic over medium heat. Once the meat is browned, reduce the heat.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Paste
Add the two cans of tomato paste to the browned meat and stir well, ensuring it is mixed thoroughly over low heat.

Step 3: Add the Rest of the Ingredients
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, shredded carrot, and fresh basil to the pan. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Add the Sausage
Slice the Molisana sausage into small bits and add it to the sauce. Stir well to incorporate.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 3 hours, stirring regularly. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this hearty sauce over your favorite pasta—spaghetti, rotini, or even ravioli. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Yummy Spaghetti Sauce

• Use fresh tomatoes when in season: If you have access to garden-fresh tomatoes, they’re an excellent substitute for canned tomatoes during the summer months.

• Simmer to your liking: Adjust the simmering time to achieve your preferred thickness and richness. Longer simmering will yield a thicker, more concentrated sauce.

• Add more herbs: Fresh oregano or thyme can enhance the flavor if you want to experiment with different herb combinations.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over spaghetti, gnocchi, rotini, rigatoni, or any other pasta you love.

• Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.

• Enjoy with a slice of garlic bread or parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Final Thoughts

This Yummy Spaghetti Sauce with Tomato, Meat, and Basil is a family favorite that combines traditional ingredients with a special touch to make it even more stomach-friendly. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this easy-to-make sauce will impress with its deep flavors and rich texture.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I'd love to hear your thoughts and any tweaks you make to suit your tastes.

If you're searching for the best banana bread recipe, look no further! This buttermilk banana bread is ultra-moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you're baking with family or just craving a comforting treat, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread

• Super Moist Texture – Thanks to the buttermilk, this banana bread stays soft and tender.

• Rich Banana Flavor – Using ripe bananas enhances the natural sweetness.

• Easy to Make – A simple one-bowl recipe that’s beginner-friendly.

• Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy warm or as a grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 4 tbsp buttermilk

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 2 eggs

• 2 cups flour

• 1/8 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease and flour 1 large loaf pan or 2 small loaf pans.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add mashed bananas and mix well.

3. Beat in eggs one at a time until combined.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

1. Dissolve baking soda in buttermilk, then add to the batter.

2. Gradually mix in flour and salt until just combined.

3. Fold in chopped pecans, if using.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan(s).

2. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Final Thoughts

This buttermilk banana bread is a family favorite and an easy go-to recipe for any occasion. It’s soft, flavorful, and even better the next day! Serve warm with butter or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.

Pro Tip:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer freshness.

Looking for a creative and fun cake idea for a birthday party? This Fishbowl Cake is the perfect showstopper! It’s simple enough for beginners, and kids will love helping with the decorations. Let’s dive in! 🐠🎂

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Kid-approved! Perfect for birthdays and ocean-themed parties.

• Easy to customize with different decorations.

• Fun & interactive—let the kids help with decorating!

Ingredients & Supplies

Cake & Base

• Cake of your choice (homemade or box mix)

• 1 pouch Jello instant pudding (French Vanilla)

• Buttermilk (to replace the water in the cake recipe)

• Buttercream icing (homemade or store-bought)

• Food coloring (Spectra blue or Wilton’s dye paste)

Decorations

• Goldfish crackers (for the fish)

• Fruit Roll-Ups (preferably with green sections for seaweed)

• Nerds candies (for pebbles)

• Dry chow mein noodles (for added texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cake Base

• Prepare the cake batter using your chosen mix or recipe.

• For a denser, moister cake, add pudding mix and substitute buttermilk for water.

• Line two 9” round cake pans with parchment paper and grease the sides.

• Divide the batter evenly and bake as directed.

• Let the cakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Buttercream Icing

• Use your favorite buttercream recipe (Wilton’s works great!).

• Divide the icing:

  • Place ⅓ of the icing in a separate bowl and cover it (this stays white).

  • To the remaining icing, add blue food coloring until you reach the desired shade.

3. Shape the Fishbowl

• Trim the cakes: Once cooled, slice off the raised portions to create a flat surface.

• Cut out the shape:

  • Cut about 2 inches in on opposite sides of each cake.

  • Stack the cakes with a layer of icing between them.

  • Trim one side by about 2 inches and the opposite side by 1 to 1.5 inches to resemble a fishbowl shape.

• Secure the cake: Spread icing on the bottom edge and stand the cake upright on a round cake plate.

4. Ice the Cake

• Apply a thin layer of blue icing on the “water” section.

• Smooth a thin layer of white icing on the “glass” part of the fishbowl.

• Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to help set the icing.

• Apply a thicker, smooth coat of blue and white icing.

5. Decorate Your Fishbowl Cake

Create the Fishbowl Rim

• Fill a piping bag (or plastic bag with the corner snipped) with white icing.

• Pipe a large oval on top to create the fishbowl rim.

• Fill the rim with blue sprinkle sugar for extra effect.

Add Seaweed & Gravel

• Cut green shapes from Fruit Roll-Ups for seaweed and stick them onto the cake.

• Press Nerds candies along the bottom for colorful pebbles.

• Use chow mein noodles for a fun, plant-like texture.

Add the Goldfish & Details

• Place Goldfish crackers around the cake as swimming fish.

• Use a small icing tip to add eyes, bubbles, and extra details.

6. Final Touches

• Add a message on the cake plate if desired.

• Step back and admire your adorable Fishbowl Cake!

• Take lots of pictures before serving because this one is a masterpiece! 📸🐠

Final Thoughts

This Fishbowl Cake is a delightful and creative way to make birthdays extra special. Whether you’re making it for a party or just for fun, it’s an easy-to-follow recipe with impressive results.

Have you tried making this cake? Share your photos—I’d love to see your creations! Have fun with it!

Get the kids involved (or not) and enjoy making this creative and delicious cake. Let me know how it turns out! 😊