Made. by Lia, Everyday Craft Baking by Lia Holter, Reviewed

Growing up in a suburb of St. Louis, I’ve always had a soft spot for local gems, so discovering Made. by Lia, Everyday Craft Baking by Lia Holter, the heart and soul behind the adorable Made. by Lia bakery, felt like a homecoming. As someone who doesn’t consider herself to be a master baker (though I dabble), I was drawn to this book not just for its recipes but for the warmth and nostalgia Lia pours into every page. Her story, rooted in family, community, and a triumphant win on “Next Great Baker" resonates deeply, especially since her bakery is in the very suburb where I spent my childhood.

What I love most about this book is how approachable it feels. The recipes, from crowd-pleasing Lemon Blueberry Scones to the indulgent Chocolate Cherry Birthday Cake, are written with such clear, concise instructions that even a baking novice like me feels confident tackling them. The Birthday Cake Scones? Adorable and drool-worthy. The Butter Biscuits? They’re on my to-bake list this week, and just looking at the photos makes my mouth water. Lia’s ability to balance simple and complex recipes ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out.

The book’s design is a thoughtful touch, especially for someone like me who appreciates readability as I get older. The sans-serif font is large, clear, and easy on the eyes—perfect for flipping through while covered in flour. I was also thrilled to see vegan and gluten-free options, making this a cookbook that truly welcomes all bakers. The chapters on scones and cakes stole my heart, particularly the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, which had me practically licking the page.

Lia’s passion for baking as a craft shines through, and her professional tips make you feel like she’s right there in the kitchen with you. This book isn’t just about recipes; it’s about creating memories, sharing love through food, and embracing the joy of baking. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to pass these recipes on to my own family.

 You can order a copy here.

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 Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Ready Press Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Empanadas by Donna Kelly, Reviewed

As someone who’s always been enchanted by the magic of handheld pies, I was beyond excited to get my hands on Donna Kelly’s latest cookbook, Empanadas. Let me tell you, this book is a game-changer for anyone who loves food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With over 70 recipes packed into its pages, it has quickly become my go-to for creating flavorful, golden turnovers that bring joy to every bite.

What I love most about this cookbook is how approachable it makes empanadas, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out. Kelly offers three distinct dough recipes, each one carefully crafted for either frying or baking to achieve that perfect crispy or flaky texture. And for those days when time isn’t on my side (hello, weeknights!), she includes a genius shortcut using tortillas. It’s like she knew I’d need a quick fix to satisfy my empanada cravings.The heart of this book, though, is the fillings; over 60 recipes that take you on a global flavor journey. I’ve been having a blast experimenting with savory options like Venezuelan Mojo Chicken, which bursts with zesty citrus and herbs, and Mexican Street Corn, a creamy, spicy nod to one of my favorite street foods. The Louisiana Jambalaya filling brought a taste of New Orleans to my kitchen, while the Asparagus and Goat Cheese empanadas felt like a fancy springtime treat that had me going back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds).Kelly also sprinkles in holiday-inspired fillings that make every occasion feel special. I’m already planning to whip up the Lucky New Year’s Hoppin’ John empanadas for a festive start to 2026, and the Easter Ham and Scalloped Potatoes filling is calling my name for next spring. But the real showstoppers for me? The sweet empanadas. The Peach Melba filling, with its juicy peaches and tart raspberry drizzle, is pure summer bliss, and the Chocolate Raspberry empanadas? Let’s just say they disappeared from my counter faster than I’d like to admit.To top it all off, Kelly includes seven bonus recipes for sauces and drizzles that take these pies to a whole new level. I’ve been obsessed with pairing her tangy chimichurri with the savory fillings and her sweet caramel drizzle with the dessert empanadas. It’s these little touches that make every recipe feel like a complete experience.Donna Kelly has truly outdone herself, and I can’t wait to keep exploring this cookbook. If you’re ready to dive into the world of empanadas, grab a copy of and let the folding, filling, and feasting begin! 

You can order your copy here.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from Gibbs Smith in exchange for my honest review.

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Farmhouse Weeknights, Quick and Wholesome Recipes for Dinner by Melissa Bahen, Reviewed

 

I don’t ​know about you, but there’s something about the word “farmhouse” in the title of any cookbook that makes me instinctively know that it’s going to be a good one. I have always felt that way, have never been proven wrong, and I certainly haven’t been with this new book, Farmhouse Weeknights, Quick and Wholesome Recipes for Dinner by Melissa Bahen.

This is my kind of cookbook—packed with comforting, mouthwatering recipes that anyone can whip up, whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned pro like me. I’ve been cooking my whole life, and let me tell you, getting a meal on the table fast is crucial when you’re feeding a young family. But here’s the kicker: it’s just as important when you’re older. As the years pile on, you’re tired, you’re creaky, maybe you’re cooking for one, and the last thing you want is to fuss over dinner. This book? It’s a lifesaver for the young and the not-so-young. There’s not a single recipe in here I don’t want to dive into. My plan? Start at page one and cook my way through every single dish.The recipes are clear and concise. The photos are gorgeous, I love the commentary by the author ahead of each recipe, and there is an index (I’m doing back flips here, because you all know how I feel about indexes in cookbooks, and how distressed I am at the fact that they’re disappearing, probably as I write).Every recipe lists prep time, cook time, and serving size right at the top, so there’s no guesswork. If you’re strapped for time (who isn’t?), you can zero in on a dish that fits your schedule. Me? I’m gunning for the 10-minutes-or-less crowd-pleasers, starting with the Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich—5 minutes prep time, people! Woot woot! Plus, Melissa throws in shortcuts to shave even more time off cooking.I have no doubt that this cookbook will have you as fired up as I am. It’s a must-have, whether you’re gifting it to someone setting up their first home or a seasoned soul who’s been running a kitchen for decades. Pre-order it here —you won’t regret it. This book’s got big thumbs-up energy, and I’m already counting down the days to cook my way through it, starting with the Donut Shortcake. What can I say?

 Many thanks to Gibbs Smith Publishing Company who provided me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking, a Review

Jodi Moreno’s Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking is a refreshing departure from the often lackluster cookbooks flooding today’s market. As a James Beard–nominated chef, Moreno brings a vibrant, indulgent, yet approachable energy to her collection of comfort recipes that celebrate life’s simple pleasures. From the moment you open the book, its beautifully designed pages and comprehensive index—a rarity in modern cookbooks—draw you in. Every recipe is accompanied by a stunning photograph, making it as much a visual feast as a culinary one.

 

What sets this book apart is Moreno’s knack for reinventing familiar dishes with unexpected twists. The pickle-brine sheet pan chicken with capers, red onion, and dill is a standout, its bold flavor combination will no doubt provide a “toothsome” experience that lives up to its intriguing title. Similarly, the broccoli with feta, almonds, and lemon, inspired by her boss’s obsession, is a simple yet sophisticated dish that delivers on both taste and ease. As a broccoli enthusiast, I found this recipe to be a delightful addition to my repertoire.The shrimp scampi with tomato rice is another gem—elegant enough for company, yet straightforward for novice cooks. Moreno’s Golden Salmorejo, a yellow tomato gazpacho, is a must-try for summer, especially for those growing their own yellow tomatoes, like me. Her take on potato leek soup, enhanced with crispy potatoes and leeks, challenges even the most confident home cooks to rethink a classic. The book’s variety ensures there’s something for every taste, budget, and skill level, from indulgent butter-laden dishes to lighter, feel-good options. 

 

Moreno’s playful organization, with sections like “Pasta Parties” and “Long Leisurely Gatherings,” invites readers to embrace cooking as a joyful, communal experience. Her love for bold ingredients—crème fraîche, juicy tomatoes, mounds of parmesan—shines through, creating recipes that balance decadence and nourishment. Simple Pleasures is a cookbook that feels personal, thoughtful, and inspiring, making it a must-have for anyone who cherishes quality, creativity, and the art of cooking.Get your copy here.

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The Art of Jacques Pépin: A Life in Recipes and Paintings, Reviewed

 

The Art of Jacques Pépin: A Life in Recipes and Paintings is a charming tribute to the legendary chef’s 90th birthday, blending his culinary brilliance with his lifelong passion for painting. This gorgeous cookbook features 99 of Pépin’s favorite recipes, thoughtfully paired with his vibrant artworks from six decades. From cozy Bread and Onion Soup to indulgent Chocolate Soufflé, each dish captures Pépin’s signature style—classic, flavorful, and totally doable for home cooks. Recipes like Baked Salmon with Pesto Butter and Pork Roast with Ratatouille nod to his French roots while fitting perfectly in modern kitchens.From cozy Bread and Onion Soup to indulgent Chocolate Soufflé, each dish captures Pépin’s signature style—classic, flavorful, and totally doable for home cooks. Recipes like Baked Salmon with Pesto Butter and Pork Roast with Ratatouille nod to his French roots while fitting perfectly in modern kitchens. 

The book’s layout is super user-friendly, with chapters covering every course, including desserts, so you can easily plan a full meal. The real star, though, is Pépin’s art. His bright, lively paintings, carefully chosen to complement the recipes, add a personal, joyful touch that shows off his creative side beyond the kitchen.The visuals are stunning, but here’s a heads-up: there are no food photos. If you love seeing the finished dish, you might be a bit let down. This is more of an art book with recipes than a traditional cookbook, which I personally loved, but it might not click for everyone.

  

As a lifelong Pépin fan who’s cooked every recipe from his pandemic-era videos and owns all his cookbooks, I think this collection is a gem. The recipes are pure Pépin—simple, elegant, and paired with clear instructions that make you feel like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this book pulls you into Pépin’s world, inspiring you to create with the same passion he radiates. As he loves to say, “Happy cooking!”—and this book makes that vibe come alive. 

You can preorder a copy here. 

 

 I received a digital copy for review from which these pictures were taken.

 Many thanks to NetGalley, Harvest Publishers, and Jacques Pépin for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Easy Everyday by Jessica Merchant, Reviewed

Jessica Merchant’s new cookbook, Easy Everyday, is like a breath of fresh air for anyone who loves good food but doesn’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. If you’re familiar with her “How Sweet Eats” blog, you already know Jessica’s vibe: quick, tasty meals that feel special without the fuss. This book, which dropped last week, is packed with 100 recipes that totally deliver on that promise, and I’m kind of obsessed.

 

Jessica gets it—dinners shouldn’t take longer than 30 to 45 minutes, and breakfast or lunch? Basically instant, unless it’s a lazy weekend brunch. Her secret sauce is meal prep, but not the boring kind where you’re eating the same thing all week. Nope, she’s all about variety and flexibility, so there’s something for everyone, no matter what you’re into or what your diet looks like.

What I love most is how she keeps prep time to around 10 minutes for so many of these dishes. Ten minutes! And yet, the results are straight-up amazing. Take her Weeknight Baked Penne with Spinach—it’s so cozy and flavorful, and using jarred marinara makes it come together crazy fast. Then there’s the Crab Salad Rolls, which are legit fancy enough for a dinner party but taste like something you’d get at a cute East Coast seafood spot. The fresh herbs? Game-changer. 

Oh, and don’t get me started on the Iced Blueberry Lattes. I’m a blueberry-and-coffee fanatic, and these blew my mind—such a fun, refreshing combo. Her Green Goddess Ranch dressing is another winner; it’s so herby and fresh, I want to put it on everything. For dessert, I tried the Chewy Caramel Pretzel Cookies, and let’s just say they didn’t last long. I’m already eyeing her Sour Cream Peach Cobbler for when peaches hit their peak this summer.

The book’s also got all these smart tips for meal planning, like Jessica’s 10-minute prep strategy that makes throwing together stuff like Crispy Baked Breakfast Quesadillas or Cilantro Lime Sheet Pan Fajitas a total breeze. Plus, the photos are gorgeous, and it just feels like Jessica’s chatting with you, cheering you on to make something yummy and get back to hanging with your people. I want to cook every single thing in here. Easy Everyday is one of those rare cookbooks that feels like it was written for real life, and I’m betting you’ll love it as much as I do. Grab a copy here, and get ready to make your weeknights way tastier. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

101 Amazing Uses for Cinnamon by Nancy Chen REVIEWED

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You learn a lot about people once you marry them. Case in point, prior to marrying the late Mr. O-P, I thought that everyone liked cinnamon. No, he didn’t, not at all. That was disappointing to me because, as a cinnamon lover, it changed the way that I cooked and baked.

Now that I’m on my own, I do what I want, when I want, and that includes adding cinnamon to as many dishes and beverages in as many ways possible. That’s why, when I was offered a review copy of 101 Amazing Uses for Cinnamon by Nancy Chen, I jumped at it. If you are the cinnamon lover than I am, this book is for you. If you can take or leave cinnamon, this book is still for you because I think you will find its many uses nothing short of amazing. 

 

Did you know, for example, that you can make your own cinnamon syrup for coffee, throat lozenges to soothe your scratchy throat, make your own cinnamon broom (I love those when they hit the grocery stores in the fall), even ward off pests in your house plants by using cinnamon? You can, and details on how are all in this fabulous book.

This is going to be one of those reference books that you will find yourself paging through again and again. In doing so you will learn more things about a spice you’ve no doubt taken for granted than you ever imagined. This book provides a wonderful introduction to cinnamon including exactly what it is and where it came from, as well as tips on buying cinnamon, and how to recognize good from bad.

 

The coffee lover in me was thrilled with cinnamon coffee syrup. Why go out for expensive, artificially flavored cinnamon coffee, when you can have the real thing at home? Coffee is not the only beverage that pairs well with cinnamon; you can make loads of cozy drinks using cinnamon including Baby’s Dream Cinnamon Milk to aid slumber, Mexican Super Food Hot Chocolate, and Better Than Coffee Shop Cinnamon Chai.

If you enjoy beverages of an alcoholic nature, cinnamon will not let you down. It makes a wonderful addition to Winter Sangria and Mulled Wine, not to mention a spicy rim rub.

In addition to being used on its own, cinnamon is also a component in many spice mixes. Plenty of recipes are provided in this book to allow you to make your own. Apple pie spice mix, Chinese five spice powder, curry powder, garam masala seasoning, to name a few.

 

You can use cinnamon to flavor meat, or use it as a seasoning in making Chinese chili oil and dishes from Moroccan and Indian cuisine. It goes without saying that it is used in desserts, and there are delicious recipes for them as well.

It may surprise you to learn that cinnamon is also used in numerous beauty treatments. It is also known to boost circulation, lighten hair and stimulate growth, act as an exfoliant for dried lips, a body scrub, a teeth whitener, and even dry shampoo. Divided into clearly marked categories by the use of convenient tabs make it easy to find what you’re looking for.

There is a comprehensive bibliography at the end, divided by chapter, that comes in handy should you be interested in further reading. If there is a downside to this book, it is the lack of an index, a glaring error in my opinion, but in this case, not a deal breaker.

Appealing for every member of the family (including children who can learn to make fragrant cinnamon stick ornaments for the Christmas tree), this is a must for both your culinary and personal libraries. It would also make a great gift for mom on Mother’s Day, not to mention an excellent host or hostess gift should you ever be invited out to dinner again.

I give it four out of five stars; an index would have earned that fifth star.

Thanks to Melissa’s Produce for alerting me to this wonderful volume, and providing me with a complimentary copy.

 

Two Peas & Their Pod Cookbook, Reviewed

​I love it when bloggers are awarded book contracts. It is wonderful compensation for all of the work that they put in, day after day, and a blog is work. If you’re not cooking and baking, you are developing recipes or hunting for ingredients, all the while trying to keep up with the latest new foods and trends. And, oh yes, styling,​​ photographing, and writing about all of that food. Such was the case with Maria Lichty and her new book, Two Peas & Their Pod.

Subtitled “Favorite Everyday Recipes from Our Family Kitchen,” it is quite a resource. As I was paging through, it occurred to me what a wonderful gift this would make for a pair of newlyweds. This book lays out all of the information that you need in setting up a kitchen. There is a section on tools for becoming a confident cook, kitchen gear and gadgets that you’ll need, how to organize your ingredients (after all these years this is still my nemesis), staple ingredients that are a must, as well as meal planning tips. The book is laid out in the order meals are consumed beginning with breakfast. If you aren’t taken in by the delicious sounding recipes, you will certainly be taken in by the mouthwatering photos.

One of my favorite salads of all time is her Chickpea, Avocado, and Feta Salad, that I wrote about here.  The fact that it contains ingredients that I tend to always have on hand, and that it’s very quick and easy to put together, are pluses to be sure, but the real winner is the taste. I look quite forward to trying all of the salads in this book, each one looking more inviting than the next.

Being a lifelong fan of cheeseburgers, I had to try husband Josh's favorite double cheeseburger recipe. I didn’t think it could be possible, but this may be my new favorite cheeseburger. The addition of mild Italian sausage in with the ground beef gives it an excellent, earthy taste that so many of them lack. Doubling up the patties, and topping them with two different kinds of cheese, just adds to the wonderfulness of this burger.  Factor in grilled onions and aioli, and you have yourself a quick little trip to heaven.

 The Easy Blender Salsa is another winner, and as easy as it is good. I was looking for something else to do with my mountains of fresh jalapeños, so decided to try this. Not only have I been using it as a dip with tortilla chips, I find it is a wonderful drizzled on top of a grilled burger, grilled chicken, or even over an omelet.

While I try to avoid them, chapters on desserts do tend to grab my attention, so I tried the lemon poppy seed Bundt cake. I made mine in loaf pans (because my new loaf pan is the absolute cutest) and it came out marvelously. This is a densely lemony, flavorful cake that reminded me of the poppy seed cakes my grandmother used to make.

Each recipe is preceded by a bit of verbiage that I quite enjoy. This type of thing in cookbooks has recently come under fire, but I find it delightful. It makes me feel as if I am connecting directly with the author, and that we are old friends.

I don’t have to tell you that my list of recipes to make from this book is a long one. My best guess is that it will take me until the end of the year to do so. You might consider joining me, and getting one for your kitchen bookshelves. This book is full of recipes to suit all tastes, diets, and interests. Vegetarians, meat eaters, vegetable fanciers, and dessert lovers will all find something of value in here. There’s so much, that I’m not sure what to try next.

You need this book in your cookbook library. Click the photo link below and make it your own.

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Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Decadent Shakes, Milkshakes with More, Reviewed

It's been said that you can't judge a book by its cover. Boy, is that wrong. I mean, take a look at the cover of this book. You know you want it, right? This is a book that you need to have in your cookbook library, and if you don't as yet have a cookbook library, then it's time to start.

I am all about the garnish. Flashy, showy, that's what it's all about. You eat first with your eyes, and if there is something that dazzles your visual senses, you know you're going to enjoy it. This book, Decadent Shakes, Milkshakes with More, by Matthew, Sarah, and Brandon Aouad, is a fabulous cookbook loaded with not only delicious shakes, but also incredibly inspired garnishes.

This book has turned making milkshakes into an art form. It provides a wonderful guide on how to do just that, including how to make every garnish shown in the book, and there are lots of them. Here you'll find garnishes featuring candy bars, cookies, pretzels, peanut butter, waffles, ice cream cones, and many other tasty goodies. If it's sweet and delicious, the authors have figured out a way to put it on top of a thick and frosty shake. Everyone, I think, appreciates being the recipient of a carefully crafted dessert. Here you can learn how to become an expert.

 

The recipes are easy to make and absolutely delicious. The first one I tried was Mocha Madness because of my love of the coffee-and-chocolate combination. Wonderful! I trimmed my jar with melted chocolate, and then embedded finely ground coffee beans into it. It made a striking presentation. The authors suggest topping this particular shake with M&Ms, and I did that, along with a few chocolate-covered espresso beans. Swoon!

 Both young and the young at heart are going to love the Jenga shake, topped with crisscrossed Kit Kat bars. How cute is this? With the holidays coming up, another must try is a dazzling dessert called the TVC Tree. The presentation consists of an inverted waffle cone piped with green icing and embedded with red, crispy M&M "ornaments." Wouldn't this make a fabulous holiday dessert?

And speaking of the holidays, in early October I start to think about holiday shopping. Let me suggest this cookbook. It's fabulous, makes a great gift for male or female, young and old, and will be one that is greatly appreciated, not to mention a cookbook that is actually used instead of gathering dust on the shelf. Who doesn't like delicious drinks and shakes, and a wonderful presentation to make the recipient feel so special?

I cannot recommend this book enough. Pick up a copy and have great fun with it. Use the recipes in the book, but also use them as a springboard to create some wonderfully delicious, artistic, milkshake concoctions of your own.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from The Anderson Group in exchange for an honest review.