Crispy, Creamy, Buttery Chicken with Golden Butter Crumb Topping

If you need an easy comfort food dinner that the whole family will actually eat, this Ritz Cracker Chicken is one of the best recipes to keep on repeat.

Thin sliced chicken breasts bake under a crispy buttery cracker topping until golden brown around the edges. Somehow, the chicken stays incredibly tender and creamy, even without cream-of soup or heavy sauces.

This easy baked chicken recipe is:

• quick to prep
• family friendly
• budget friendly
• perfect for busy weeknights
• cozy and comforting

And thanks to the Golden Butter Crumb topping, every bite has buttery crunch and rich flavor.

Why You’ll Love Ritz Cracker Chicken

This recipe is one of those old-fashioned comfort food meals that somehow tastes much fancier than the ingredients actually are. The buttery Ritz cracker topping turns golden brown in the oven while the chicken stays juicy and tender underneath.

It tastes rich and creamy, even though there is no cream-of-anything soup mixed into the dish. This recipe is perfect for:

• busy weeknights
• Sunday suppers
• meal trains
• potlucks
• feeding a crowd
• picky eaters

It also uses simple pantry ingredients most people already have at home. If you don’t keep chickens, butter, and crackers around, it’s super quick meal to grab ingredients for!

The First Time I Ate Ritz Cracker Chicken

I remember distinctly the first time I ate Ritz Cracker Chicken. We were having supper with a discipleship group we had just joined. The hostess served Ritz cracker chicken with canned green beans and mashed potatoes.

I remember taking a bite and being completely shocked by how creamy and flavorful the chicken tasted. What surprised me most was when she told me there really were not any special spices or sauces in it. At the time, I could not figure out how something so simple tasted so comforting.

I honestly did not make it myself for a long time after that. But lately, we have been making it often. It is one of those recipes that is almost dangerously easy because it comes together so quickly. On busy days, exhausted nights, or evenings when I need to feed several people fast, this recipe is one of my favorite comfort meals.

What Makes This Recipe Different

Many Ritz cracker chicken recipes use cream soup, sour cream, or a thick sauce.My version is simpler. I slice chicken breasts thin, arrange them in a baking dish, then top them with my homemade Golden Butter Crumb topping.

That buttery cracker mixture bakes into a crispy golden crust while the chicken underneath stays tender and juicy. And somehow, it almost magically creates its own creamy texture while baking. The edges get crispy and golden brown, while the center stays rich and comforting.

Ingredients for Ritz Chicken

I know this recipe is called “Ritz” chicken. But you don’t have hot buy the name brand crackers if you wan’t to be frugal. We love both the Aldi brand and the Walmart brand “buttery rounds” for this recipe.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breast
• salt
• black pepper

For the Golden Butter Crumb Topping

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
• 1 stick butter, melted

Optional:

• garlic powder
• parsley
• paprika

How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces so they cook evenly and quickly.

Lay the chicken in a greased 9×13 baking dish or sheet pan. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Golden Butter Crumb

Crush the Ritz crackers into crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them into a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

Pour the melted butter over the crumbs and stir until evenly coated. Every crumb should look buttery and slightly moist.

3. Top the Chicken

Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the chicken. Do not press it down too firmly.

4. Bake

Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until:

• the chicken is fully cooked
• the topping is golden brown
• the edges become crispy

Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Cook the chicken until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 160ºF (it will continue to cook and rise to 165º while it rests).

Why the Chicken Turns Creamy

One of the biggest questions people ask about this recipe is: “How does it taste creamy without cream soup?”

As the chicken bakes, the butter from the cracker topping combines with the natural juices from the chicken. The result is a rich, creamy texture that coats the chicken underneath the crispy topping. Plus, the ritz crackers just melt in your mouth. It creates comfort food flavor without needing heavy sauces.

What to Serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken

This recipe pairs perfectly with classic comfort food sides.

Some favorites include:

• mashed potatoes
• canned green beans
• roasted broccoli
• buttered corn
• macaroni and cheese
• scalloped potatoes
• simple salad
• rice pilaf

For a cozy old-fashioned supper, serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, and some sourdough cheesy biscuits.

Variations

Cheesy Ritz Chicken

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken before adding the topping. This adds a delicious layer of rot flavor, but creates a barrier so the butter doesn’t coat the chicken as well. Sometimes the topping slides right off, so be careful with this one.

Garlic Butter Chicken

Add garlic powder and parsley to the cracker crumbs. Or for something really unique, add some honey and garlic powder to your buttery golden crumb topping.

Ranch Ritz Chicken

Mix ranch seasoning into the buttery crumbs. You can make up your own DIY ranch mix if you don’t have a little packet in the pantry.

Spicy Version

Add paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat. The creaminess balances well with a bit of heat!

Storage and Reheating

Like a lot of recipes that I share, this one rarely has any leftovers because my family devours it. It’s just that good. The picky eaters love it. Everyone gets seconds. But if you have some leftovers, save them so you can enjoy it again!

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. I prefer using glass or ceramic storage containers but you can use whatever you have available.

Reheat

Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the crispiest topping. I typically reheat my meals on 375ºF. This recipe has so much butter in the crust, it will stay moist even when reheating. Microwaving works too, but the topping will soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

Printable Recipe

Print

Ritz Cracker Chicken

A rich, creamy, tender chicken with delightful buttery crust.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword made from scratch

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 people

Calories 176kcal

Author Kim

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken breast
• salt and pepper
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
• 1 stick butter melted

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
• Slice chicken breasts into thin pieces.
• Arrange chicken in greased baking dish.
• Season lightly with salt and pepper.
• Crush Ritz crackers into crumbs.
• Stir melted butter into cracker crumbs.
• Sprinkle topping evenly over chicken.
• Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes until golden brown and chicken is fully cooked.

Notes

Thin sliced chicken cooks faster and stays tender.

The topping should be buttery, not dry.

For extra crispy edges, use a shallow baking dish.

• Use thin‑sliced chicken for quick cooking and a crisp topping.
• For dairy‑free: swap butter for a neutral oil and use a cornstarch slurry under the crumbs to help bind (not as crisp).
• To reduce sodium, use low‑salt buttery crackers or rinse salt off the cracker crumbs before mixing with butter.
• Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8–12 minutes (or air fryer) to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Calories: 176kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.3g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.05g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 181mg | Potassium: 560mg | Fiber: 0.01g | Sugar: 0.04g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg

Ritz Cracker Chicken

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken breast
• salt and pepper
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
• 1 stick butter, melted

Optional:

• garlic powder
• parsley
• paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Slice chicken breasts into thin pieces.
3. Arrange chicken in greased baking dish.
4. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Crush Ritz crackers into crumbs.
6. Stir melted butter into cracker crumbs.
7. Sprinkle topping evenly over chicken.
8. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes until golden brown and chicken is fully cooked.

Notes

• Thin sliced chicken cooks faster and stays tender.
• The topping should be buttery, not dry.
• For extra crispy edges, use a shallow baking dish.

More Golden Butter Crumb Recipes

If you love cozy comfort food casseroles, try these next:

• Creamy Chicken Casserole
• Chicken Broccoli Casserole
• Chicken and Rice Casserole
• Squash Casserole
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Scalloped Potatoes with Golden Butter Crumb
• Try an Onion Casserole and add the golden butter crumb on top!

This Ritz Cracker Chicken is one of those simple recipes that feels nostalgic from the very first bite. It is creamy, crispy, buttery, and comforting in the best possible way.

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post The Easiest and Best Ritz Cracker Chicken appeared first on Plain Living.

This Golden Butter Crumb topping is one of those simple old-fashioned recipes that works on almost anything. We use it on chicken casseroles, squash casserole, broccoli casserole, scalloped potatoes, and even fruit crisps.

If you grew up eating casseroles at church potlucks, family reunions, or Sunday dinners, this recipe will probably feel familiar.

But after one small change, this buttery cracker topping became even better.

What Is Golden Butter Crumb?

Golden Butter Crumb is a buttery Ritz cracker topping made by mixing crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter before baking.

Instead of placing pats of butter over dry cracker crumbs, every crumb gets coated in butter first. This helps the topping bake evenly and creates a crispy golden brown crust across the whole casserole.

It is:

• buttery
• crispy
• golden brown
• simple to make
• perfect for casseroles and baked dishes

This topping works especially well on creamy recipes because the crunchy texture balances the soft filling underneath.

Why This Ritz Cracker Topping Works

Many old-fashioned casseroles use crushed crackers on top. The problem is that dry cracker crumbs do not always brown evenly.

Some crumbs stay pale while others get soggy.

Mixing the crumbs with melted butter first fixes that problem.

Every crumb gets coated in buttery goodness. When baked, the topping crisps up evenly and turns beautifully golden brown.

This method also:

• creates better texture
• adds richer flavor
• keeps the topping crunchy longer
• spreads butter more evenly

The Story Behind This Recipe

I grew up making casseroles, and we always used a Ritz cracker topping on several dishes.

Mom would crush the crackers by hand, sprinkle them over the casserole, then place 4 or 5 pats of butter on top before baking. This method was especially familiar for chicken casseroles.

As the casserole baked, the butter melted and helped some of the crumbs turn crispy and golden brown.

But you could always tell that some crumbs had more butter than others.

A few years ago, I watched a friend make her cracker topping differently. Instead of adding butter on top, she mixed melted butter directly into the cracker crumbs first.

The moment I saw it, I knew I would never go back.

Every single crumb became coated in butter. Every bite baked up crispy, crunchy, and perfectly golden brown.

Now this is the only way I make buttery Ritz cracker topping.

Ingredients

Simple Ingredients You Need

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
• 1 stick butter, melted

Optional seasonings:

• garlic powder
• parsley
• black pepper
• parmesan cheese
• paprika

How to Make Golden Butter Crumb

Step 1: Crush the Crackers

Place the Ritz crackers into a food processor and pulse until they become crumbs.

You can also place the crackers into a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

For the best texture, leave a few slightly larger crumbs mixed in.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Melt one stick of butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan.

Step 3: Mix the Butter and Crumbs

Pour the melted butter over the cracker crumbs.

Stir until every crumb is evenly coated.

The crumbs should look moist but not soggy.

Step 4: Spread Over Your Recipe

Sprinkle the Golden Butter Crumb mixture evenly over the casserole or baked dish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake according to your casserole recipe instructions until the topping becomes crispy and golden brown.

Best Recipes to Use It On

This buttery Ritz cracker topping works on many different recipes.

Some of our favorites include:

• chicken broccoli casserole
• chicken and rice casserole
• squash casserole
• onion casserole
• scalloped potatoes
• green bean casserole
• cheesy potato casserole
• chicken bacon ranch casserole
• peach crisp

The crunchy topping pairs especially well with creamy fillings.

Tips for the Crispiest Topping

Use Real Butter

Real butter gives the best flavor and browning.

Do Not Over Crush the Crackers

Tiny powder-like crumbs can become dense. Leave some texture in the mixture.

Bake Uncovered

Leaving the casserole uncovered helps the topping stay crispy.

Add the Topping Near the End if Needed

If your casserole bakes for a long time, you can add the topping during the last 15–20 minutes to prevent over browning.

Variations

Garlic Butter Ritz Topping

Add:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon parsley

Perfect for savory casseroles.

Parmesan Cracker Crust

Add:

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Great for potato casseroles.

Sweet Butter Crumb

Add:

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• dash cinnamon

Perfect for peach crisp or fruit desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Printable Recipe

Print

Golden Crumb Buttery Cracker Topping

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 3kcal

Ingredients

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
• 1 stick butter melted

Instructions

• Crush the Ritz crackers into crumbs.
• Melt the butter.
• Stir the melted butter into the crumbs until evenly coated.
• Sprinkle over casserole or baked dish.
• Bake until crispy and golden brown.

Notes

Best used on creamy casseroles.

For extra crunch, leave some larger cracker pieces.

Add seasonings to match your recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 3kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.2g | Protein: 0.03g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 0.5mg | Fiber: 0.01g | Sugar: 0.03g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.02mg

More Comfort Food Recipes

If you love cozy casseroles and old-fashioned comfort food, try these next:

• Ritz Cracker Chicken
• Chicken Broccoli Casserole
• Chicken and Rice Casserole
• Squash Casserole
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Scalloped Potatoes with Golden Butter Crumb

This buttery Ritz cracker topping is simple, affordable, and one of the easiest ways to make homemade casseroles taste extra comforting.

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post How to Make the Buttery Ritz Cracker Topping We Put on Everything appeared first on Plain Living.

Did you know it’s surprisingly simple to sew your own mason jar cozy? I created a free printable mason jar cozy sewing pattern and step-by-step tutorial that’s perfect for beginner sewists, homemakers, and handmade gift lovers. These little fabric sleeves are quick to sew, endlessly customizable, and incredibly practical around the home. Still not sure? Let me give you some jar cozy ideas.

But once I finished making my first few jar cozies, I realized something: people may not actually know all the different ways they can use them. A mason jar cozy is more than just a cute sewing project. It can help insulate hot or cold drinks, absorb condensation, protect your hands from hot glass, decorate party tables, and even make thoughtful handmade gifts.

5 Reasons to Sew this Project

Today I’m sharing 5 practical and creative ways to use a mason jar cozy. Many of these ideas also work beautifully in handmade gift baskets, especially for sourdough gifts, homemaking gifts, hostess baskets, and cozy holiday presents.

If you haven’t sewn your own yet, be sure to grab my free mason jar cozy sewing tutorial and printable pattern before you start.

What Is a Mason Jar Cozy?

A mason jar cozy is a fabric sleeve designed to wrap around a mason jar. Some people use them for drinks, while others use them for sourdough starter jars, gifting, home decor, or even portable desserts.

A handmade jar cozy helps insulate the contents of the jar while also making the jar easier and more comfortable to hold. They can be sewn in endless colors, fabrics, and styles to match your kitchen, holidays, parties, or gift themes.

Because mason jars are so popular in homesteading, simple living, and handmade gifting communities, mason jar cozies have become a fun and practical beginner sewing project. If you’re new to sewing, the Singer sewing resource library has helpful beginner tutorials and tips.

1. Use a Mason Jar Cozy for Sourdough Starter

One of my favorite ways to use a mason jar cozy is with a sourdough starter jar.

Sourdough starter likes a warm, stable environment. A jar cozy helps lightly insulate the jar and can help protect the starter from temperature fluctuations on the counter. While it is not a replacement for proper fermentation temperatures, it does help the jar stay a little more warm and cozy.

If you’re brand new to sourdough, the King Arthur sourdough guide is a helpful beginner resource.

And honestly? It also makes your sourdough setup look adorable.

You can sew a cozy to match your kitchen decor, seasonal fabrics, or a friend’s favorite colors. They’re especially fun in farmhouse prints, florals, neutrals, and vintage-inspired fabrics.

Sourdough Gift Basket Ideas with a Jar Cozy

A mason jar cozy makes an adorable addition to a sourdough gift basket. Here are a few ideas:

• Share dehydrated sourdough starter with a cozy
• Gift fresh starter in a mason jar wrapped in a handmade sleeve
• Include homemade bread, jam, and kitchen towels or hot pads
• Pair a cozy with a wooden sourdough spatula
• Add printable sourdough feeding instructions and a cute set of gift tags
• Trade a cozy for starter from a sourdough friend
• Barter handmade cozies for homemade bread

If you love homemade gifts, this is one of the sweetest and most practical options.

2. Use a Jar Cozy for Cold Drinks

A mason jar cozy is perfect for cold specialty drinks.

If you’ve ever held an iced coffee mason jar on a hot summer day, you know how quickly condensation forms. A jar cozy helps absorb moisture, insulate the drink, and keep your hands from getting cold or wet.

Mason jar sleeves are also a sustainable alternative to disposable coffee sleeves or drink holders.

I especially love using them for homemade iced coffees, smoothies, lemonade, and sweet tea during the summertime.

Cold Drink Ideas for Mason Jar Cozies

Try serving these drinks in mason jars with handmade cozies:

• Homemade iced coffee
• Sweet cream cold brew
• Southern sweet tea
• Fresh squeezed lemonade
• Iced matcha latte
• Fruit smoothies
• Flavored sparkling water
• Peach iced tea
• Homemade Italian soda

A mason jar cozy makes the whole drink feel extra cozy and intentional.

3. Serve Ice Cream Sundaes in Mason Jars

Ice cream sundaes become so much more portable when served in a mason jar. You could also try the healthier route and make yogurt parfaits.

Instead of balancing a bowl while chasing kids around the backyard or sitting poolside, you can layer ice cream, toppings, whipped cream, and sauces right into a pint-size mason jar.

Then slide on a handmade jar cozy for extra grip and insulation.

This idea is especially cute for:

• Summer parties
• Backyard BBQs
• Pool parties
• Birthday parties
• Homeschool gatherings
• Family movie nights

You could even make a DIY sundae bar and let guests build their own jars.

Ice Cream Party Ideas

A jar cozy would make an adorable party favor alongside:

• reusable straws
• mini ice cream scoops
• homemade hot fudge
• sprinkles
• homemade whipped cream
• gift cards for local ice cream shops

4. Use a Jar Cozy for Hot Drinks

A mason jar cozy also works beautifully for hot drinks.

Mason jars are often used for coffee, tea, cider, and hot chocolate, but the glass can become too hot to comfortably hold. A quilted mason jar sleeve acts much like a reusable coffee sleeve. It helps protect your hands while making your drink feel cozy and handmade.

You could even create a different cozy for each family member and make it part of your seasonal traditions.

Hot Drink Ideas for Mason Jar Cozies

• Homemade lattes
• Hot cocoa
• Chai tea
• Apple cider
• Peppermint mochas
• London fog tea
• Herbal teas
• Homemade cappuccinos

These make especially thoughtful gifts during the fall and winter months.

Handmade Gift Ideas with Jar Cozies

Pair a mason jar cozy with:

• homemade cocoa mix
• coffee beans
• tea bags
• biscotti
• marshmallows
• cinnamon sticks
• handmade mugs
• quilted potholders

This would make such a sweet Christmas gift, teacher gift, or hostess gift.

5. Make Mason Jar Cozies for Parties

I honestly think themed mason jar cozies for a party would be absolutely adorable.

You could make a coordinated set for:

• birthdays
• baby showers
• bridal showers
• pool parties
• homeschool gatherings
• church events
• cookouts
• bonfires
• tea parties

The cozies could double as both decor and party favors.

Serve drinks or desserts in mason jars, then let guests take the cozy home afterward.

Fun Party Themes for Mason Jar Cozies

Sourdough Party

Serve fresh sourdough bread, starter, and homemade jam. Send guests home with starter jars wrapped in cozy sleeves.

Pool Party

Serve sweet tea, lemonade, or Italian sodas in jars with colorful summer-themed cozies.

Bonfire Night

Serve hot cocoa in mason jars and pair the cozy with matching hand warmers.

Ice Cream Sundae Party

Set up a sundae bar and use mason jar cozies to keep everyone’s dessert jars easy to hold.

Best Fabrics for Mason Jar Cozies

One of the best things about this sewing project is how customizable it is.

Some great fabric options include:

• quilting cotton
• canvas
• linen blends
• denim
• flannel
• vintage sheets
• farmhouse florals
• buffalo plaid

You can also add batting or insulated lining if you want extra protection for hot or cold drinks.

What Size Mason Jar Fits a Jar Cozy?

Most mason jar cozies are designed for:

• pint jars
• wide mouth pint jars
• quart jars
• jelly jars

Be sure to check your jar measurements before cutting fabric.

My free printable pattern includes sizing information to help you get the best fit.

Can You Wash a Mason Jar Cozy?

Yes. Most cotton mason jar cozies are machine washable.

I recommend:

• washing on cold
• avoiding high heat

This makes them practical for everyday kitchen use.

Why Mason Jar Cozies Make Great Handmade Gifts

Handmade gifts feel extra meaningful because they show intentionality and care.

A mason jar cozy is:

• affordable to make
• beginner-friendly
• practical
• customizable
• easy to batch sew
• perfect for scrap fabric

They work beautifully for:

• birthdays
• Christmas
• teacher gifts
• homemaking gifts
• sourdough baskets
• coffee lovers
• hostess gifts
• Mother’s Day

And because they’re quick to sew, they’re also a wonderful craft fair item.

Final Thoughts

A mason jar cozy may seem simple, but there are so many creative ways to use one around the home.

Whether you’re serving iced coffee, feeding sourdough starter, making homemade gifts, or planning a backyard party, these little fabric sleeves add both beauty and practicality.

And the best part? They’re incredibly beginner-friendly to sew.

If you haven’t already, be sure to grab my free mason jar cozy sewing pattern and tutorial so you can start making your own.

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post 5 Creative Ways to Use a Mason Jar Cozy appeared first on Plain Living.

When we found a basket of ripe fresh peaches, the kids immediately asked if we could make homemade popsicles. We wanted something creamy, refreshing, and made with simple ingredients. These peaches and cream popsicles turned out even better than we hoped.

The peach layer is sweet, fruity, and bright, while the creamy vanilla base makes each bite rich and velvety smooth. They taste like a healthier version of peaches and cream ice cream bars, but with simple real-food ingredients you probably already have at home.

These homemade peach popsicles are one of our favorite healthy summer treats, and they’re perfect for hot afternoons, pool days, backyard gatherings, or keeping stocked in the freezer all peach season long.

Why You’ll Love These Peaches and Cream Popsicles

• Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
• Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
• Creamy texture without pudding mixes or artificial ingredients
• Easy to customize with different fruits
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
• Perfect healthy summer snack
• Great way to use fresh peaches

What Makes These Popsicles So Creamy?

The combination of Greek yogurt and heavy cream gives these popsicles a rich, smooth texture that freezes beautifully without becoming icy.

The yogurt adds a slight tang that pairs perfectly with sweet peaches, while the cream creates that luxurious peaches-and-cream flavor that feels almost like homemade ice cream.

Ingredients for Homemade Peaches and Cream Popsicles

Peach Puree

• 4 fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or preferred sweetener

Cream Base

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes

Fresh Peaches

Fresh ripe peaches give the best flavor. Look for peaches that smell sweet and feel slightly soft when gently squeezed.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt helps make the popsicles creamy while adding protein and tangy flavor.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream gives these popsicles their velvety smooth texture and rich flavor.

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup naturally sweetens the peach puree without overpowering the fresh peach flavor.

How to Make Peaches and Cream Popsicles

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

Peel the peaches and slice the flesh away from the pits.

If your peaches are ripe, the skins may peel easily by hand. My kids usually snack on the peels while we cook because they’re naturally sweet and juicy.

Slice the peaches into chunks small enough for your blender.

Step 2: Make the Peach Puree

Add the peaches and maple syrup to a blender.

Blend until smooth and creamy.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse lightly instead of fully blending.

Step 3: Make the Cream Base

In a separate bowl or blender, combine:

• Greek yogurt
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Fill the Popsicle Molds

Prepare your popsicle molds or sleeves.

Pour the cream mixture into each mold until about 3/4 full.

Add peach puree to fill the remaining space.

Use a popsicle stick, toothpick, or chopstick to gently swirl the two mixtures together.

Step 5: Freeze

Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until completely solid.

Once frozen, remove from molds and enjoy immediately.

Tips for the Best Homemade Popsicles

Use ripe peaches

The sweeter your peaches are naturally, the better your popsicles will taste.

Blend thoroughly

A smooth puree helps create creamy popsicles without icy chunks.

Don’t over-swirl

A few gentle swirls create beautiful peach ribbons throughout the cream base.

Freeze overnight for easiest removal

If your popsicles are difficult to remove from the mold, run warm water over the outside for a few seconds.

Chill the mixture first

Cold mixtures freeze faster and create smoother popsicles.

Frozen Peaches

Allow frozen peaches to thaw slightly before blending.

Canned Peaches

Drain canned peaches well before using.

If using peaches canned in syrup, reduce or omit the maple syrup to avoid making the popsicles overly sweet.

Best Peaches for Popsicles

The best peaches for homemade popsicles are ripe, sweet, and juicy. Look for peaches that smell fragrant and give slightly when gently squeezed. Fresh summer peaches will give your popsicles the brightest flavor and natural sweetness.

Freestone peaches are often the easiest to work with because the pit separates easily from the flesh. Yellow peaches tend to have a bold, classic peach flavor, while white peaches are sweeter and slightly milder.

If peaches are not in season, frozen peaches are a wonderful option and still create delicious creamy popsicles. You can even use canned peaches in a pinch, although fresh peaches usually provide the best flavor and texture.

How to Prevent Icy Popsicles

Homemade popsicles can sometimes become icy if the mixture contains too much water and not enough fat or creaminess. The combination of Greek yogurt and heavy cream in this recipe helps create a smoother, creamier texture that freezes beautifully.

For the best peaches and cream popsicles:

• Use ripe peaches with natural sweetness
• Blend the peach puree until smooth
• Use full-fat Greek yogurt
• Do not reduce the cream too much
• Freeze the popsicles quickly after filling the molds
• Keep your freezer at a consistent temperature

If you prefer an even creamier popsicle, you can add an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of sweetened condensed milk.

Can I Use Frozen Peaches?

Yes! Frozen peaches work very well in this peaches and cream popsicle recipe. They are a great option when fresh peaches are not in season and can help you enjoy homemade peach popsicles year-round.

Allow frozen peaches to thaw slightly before blending so they mix smoothly into the puree. If your frozen peaches are already sweetened, reduce the maple syrup to avoid overly sweet popsicles.

Frozen peaches may release slightly more liquid than fresh peaches, but the creamy yogurt and heavy cream help keep the texture smooth and rich.

Healthy Popsicle Ideas

If you love making homemade popsicles, here are a few more healthy summer treat ideas to try next:

• Strawberry yogurt popsicles
• Orange creamsicle popsicles
• Fresh fruit freezer pops
• Watermelon popsicles
• Tropical mango popsicles
• Berry smoothie popsicles
• Homemade electrolyte popsicles
• Creamy banana popsicles
• Fresh peach smoothie bowls
• Healthy frozen yogurt treats

Homemade popsicles are a wonderful way to use seasonal fruit while creating simple summer snacks with real ingredients.Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about homemade popsicles is how easy they are to customize.

Add Mango

Frozen mango pairs beautifully with peaches and creates a tropical flavor.

Make Them Higher Protein

Try adding:

• Collagen peptides
• Vanilla protein powder
• Extra Greek yogurt

Make Them Lighter

For a lighter popsicle, substitute milk for part of the heavy cream.

Add Texture

Mix in:

• Diced peaches
• Granola
• Crushed freeze-dried fruit
• Coconut flakes

Substitutions

Sweetener Options

You can substitute:

• Honey
• Cane sugar
• Coconut sugar
• Stevia
• Monk fruit sweetener

You can even leave out the sweetener entirely if your peaches are very ripe and naturally sweet.

Yogurt Options

Vanilla Greek yogurt works well in place of plain yogurt and vanilla extract.

Dairy-Free Option

Use:

• Coconut cream
• Dairy-free yogurt
• Oat milk or almond milk

Best Popsicle Molds to Use

We’ve tested several different popsicle molds and sleeves over the years, and these styles have worked best for our family.

Great Options Include

• Silicone popsicle molds
• Otter pop style reusable sleeves
• Disposable freeze pop sleeves
• Classic wooden-stick molds

Silicone molds are usually the easiest to remove after freezing.

How Long Do Homemade Popsicles Take to Freeze?

Otter Pop Style Sleeves

Usually freeze within 1–2 hours.

Full Size Popsicle Molds

Typically need 4–6 hours to freeze completely.

Freezing overnight gives the best texture and easiest removal.

How to Store Homemade Popsicles

These peaches and cream popsicles store beautifully in the freezer.

You can:

• Leave them in the molds
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap
• Store in zip-top freezer bags
• Use individual cellophane treat bags

Try to remove excess air to help prevent freezer burn.

Homemade popsicles are best enjoyed within 2–3 months.

Serving Ideas

These creamy peach popsicles are perfect for:

• Summer cookouts
• Pool parties
• Healthy afternoon snacks
• Summer homeschool treats
• Backyard picnics
• Baby showers
• Fresh peach season desserts

For parties, serve the popsicles on a tray layered with crushed ice to keep them cold longer while creating a beautiful presentation.

Print

Peaches N Cream Popsicles

Creamy vanilla yogurt mixed with tangy and sweet peach puree makes the perfect summer time treat.

Course Dessert

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

freeze time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8 popsicles

Equipment

• 1 blender
• 1 popsicle mold
• 8 popsicle sticks

Ingredients

• Peaches Puree:
• 4 peaches peeled, cored and sliced
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or your favorite sweetener
• Cream Base:
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt
• 1 Cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 Tbs vanilla

Instructions

• Peel your peaches. Slice the soft, juicy flesh off of the pit. My kids ate the skin as a snack! If your peaches are ripe and juicy, the peels will be delicious too.
• Slice the peaches to fit into your blender.
• Blend together into a puree: peaches and maple syrup.
• In a bowl or blender, mix together greek yogurt, heavy cream, and vanilla.
• Prep your popsicle molds.
• Pour the cream base into each mold slot about 3/4 of the way full.
• Pour the peach puree into the remaining space.
• use a popsicle stick, toothpick, or chop stick to swirl the two flavors together.
• Freeze for 4-6 hours and enjoy!

Notes

Get our favorite popsicles tools here:

 

Silicone otter pops: https://amzn.to/46bTfEd

Disposable otter pops: https://amzn.to/44qTOsl

Popsicle molds: https://amzn.to/3IjtQP3

Popsicles sticks: https://amzn.to/4eRaOM6

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

These homemade peaches and cream popsicles are one of our favorite ways to enjoy fresh peaches during the summer months. They’re creamy, refreshing, easy to customize, and made with simple ingredients that feel wholesome and homemade.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy summer snack, a way to use ripe peaches, or an easy freezer treat for kids, these creamy peach popsicles are always a hit.

If you make this recipe, leave a comment and let us know your favorite variation.

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post Best Peaches and Cream Popsicles appeared first on Plain Living.

Fresh strawberries, creamy feta cheese, crunchy pecans, and crisp spring greens come together in this beautiful strawberry salad recipe that tastes like spring in a bowl.

This easy strawberry salad is light, fresh, colorful, and packed with sweet and savory flavor. Tossed with a homemade red onion vinaigrette dressing, it is the perfect side dish for warm weather meals, cookouts, lunches, or simple summer suppers.

If you are looking for healthy strawberry recipes or wondering what to do with fresh strawberries, this salad is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy strawberry season.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Salad

This strawberry spring mix salad is one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for everyday lunches and dinners. With strawberry season in full swing, this is great way to use up all those fresh, ripe berries.

The sweet strawberries balance perfectly with the salty feta cheese and crunchy nuts, while the tangy vinaigrette ties everything together. Fresh strawberries will really bring this salad together with their sweetness and juiciness.

This fresh strawberry salad is:

• fresh and healthy
• quick to make
• perfect for spring and summer
• naturally colorful
• easy to customize
• great for cookouts and potlucks

It also feels light and refreshing during hot weather when heavy meals are less appealing.

The Best Fresh Salad for Strawberry Season

Every spring and summer, fresh strawberries start showing up everywhere. Families take their kids to U-pick farms and load up!

There are so many wonderful ways to use them:

• homemade jam to make pop tarts
• strawberry shortcake
• smoothies or popsicles
• muffins
• fruit salad
• desserts

But one of the most underrated ways to use fresh strawberries is in salads. The sweetness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like cheese, nuts, onions, and homemade vinaigrettes. This salad especially shines during peak strawberry season when berries are naturally sweet and juicy. If you have ever wondered what to do with fresh strawberries besides dessert recipes, this salad is a perfect place to start.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large container spring mix lettuce
• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

For the Red Onion Vinaigrette

You can make this salad with any type of vinaigrette that you like. It’s declines with a Vidalia onion dressing, but that can be hard to find. I love to make a batch of red onion vinaigrette for this salad. But it’s also amazing with simple homemade honey mustard.

How to Make Strawberry Salad

Step 1: Wash the Produce

Wash and dry the spring mix for the salad base and fresh strawberries for the topping. Slice the strawberries into thin slices.Thinly slice the red onion.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or mason jar, combine:

• olive oil
• red wine vinegar
• honey or sugar
• minced red onion
• salt
• pepper

Get the complete recipe here.

Blend with an immersion bender til smooth. Then, whisk or shake until fully combined. Let the dressing sit for a few minutes so the onion flavor softens slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the spring mix to a large serving bowl.

Top with:

• sliced strawberries
• feta cheese
• chopped pecans or walnuts
• sliced red onion

Step 4: Toss with Dressing

Drizzle the red onion vinaigrette over the fresh strawberry salad just before serving. Toss gently until lightly coated.

Homemade Red Onion Vinaigrette

This simple vinaigrette is what makes a fresh strawberry salad taste extra fresh and flavorful. The red onion adds bold flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the strawberries. Honey helps balance the acidity and creates a dressing that tastes bright, fresh, and slightly sweet.

If you want a stronger onion flavor, let the dressing sit for 15–20 minutes before serving. The nutrition info probably looks way better than anything store bought!

What Does Fresh Strawberry Salad Taste Like?

This strawberry salad is the perfect mix of:

• sweet
• salty
• tangy
• crunchy
• fresh

The strawberries add juicy sweetness while the feta cheese brings creamy saltiness.Pecans add crunch and richness, and the vinaigrette gives the whole salad a bright homemade flavor.

Every bite has a balance of textures and flavors that feels light but satisfying.

Best Tips for the Freshest Salad

Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries

The better the strawberries taste, the better the salad will taste.

Choose berries that are:

• bright red
• fragrant
• sweet smelling
• firm but ripe

Dry the Lettuce Well

Wet greens can water down the dressing. A salad spinner works very well for this recipe.

Dress the Salad Right Before Serving

This keeps the greens crisp and fresh.

Toast the Nuts for More Flavor

Toasting pecans or walnuts adds extra crunch and richer flavor.

Simply toast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant.

Variations and Add-Ins

This salad is easy to customize depending on what you have on hand.

Add Grilled Chicken

Turn this into a full meal by adding sliced grilled chicken. With the addition of protein, this salad turns into a meal instead of a side dish.

Use Goat Cheese Instead of Feta

Goat cheese creates a creamy tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries. I’ve gotten delicious goat cheese at a great price at Aldi. For you homesteaders with dairy goats, you could make this salad to really show off your homemade cheese!

Add Blueberries

Blueberries make this salad even more colorful for summer gatherings. Turn it patriotic by using strawberries, blueberries, feta cheese, and red onion vinaigrette. You’ll have beautiful red, white, and blue salad!

Try Candied Pecans

Candied pecans add extra sweetness and crunch. Who doesn’t love a little sweetness added to their salad?

Add Avocado

Creamy avocado makes the salad feel more filling and rich. This is a great way to add in some healthy fats to keep you full for longer.

What to Serve with Strawberry Salad

This strawberry spring mix salad pairs well with many warm weather meals.

Some favorite pairings include:

• grilled chicken- greek style chicken bites would pair beautifully
• steak
• burgers on sourdough buns
• sourdough sandwiches
• pasta salad
• barbecue chicken
• lemon pasta
• Pair with potato soup for a lunch combo

It is also beautiful for:

• baby showers
• bridal showers
• Easter meals
• Mother’s Day lunches
• summer cookouts

Frequently Asked Questions

Print or Save the Dressing Recipe

Print

Sweet Red Onion Vinaigrette

This tangy oil and vinegar style dressing is rich and beautiful. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tart. It pairs well with leafy greens and salads that incorporate fruit.

Course Appetizer, Salad, sauces, toppings

Cuisine American

Keyword from scratch dressing, salad dressing, vinaigrette

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 176kcal

Equipment

• 1 immersion blender
• 1 large mouth mason jar

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 red onion
• 1/2 cup sugar

Instructions

• Peel and roughly chop the red onion.
• Add the chopped onion, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and sugar to a large-mouth mason jar.
• Blend with an immersion blender until smooth.
• Alternatively, add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
• Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
• Store in the refrigerator and shake before serving.

Notes

Cane sugar gives the cleanest flavor.
Honey creates a thicker texture.
Store in the refrigerator for 7–10 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 176kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 26mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 0.3IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.2mg

More Fresh Strawberry and Salad Recipes

If you are looking for more healthy strawberry recipes and fresh spring foods, try these next:

• Strawberry Banana Smoothie
• Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
• Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits
• Honey Mustard
• Homemade Ranch

This strawberry salad is one of the easiest ways to enjoy fresh strawberries during spring and summer. It is colorful, healthy, refreshing, and full of bright homemade flavor.

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post The Best Fresh Strawberry Summer Salad Red Onion Vinaigrette appeared first on Plain Living.

There’s a reason Tennessee Onion casserole went viral. Sweet onions baked with layers of bubbling cheese and rich cream become absolutely irresistible. And when you make it with real Vidalia onions? It somehow gets even better.

This Georgia Girl Onion Bake is my Southern-inspired take on the famous onion casserole recipe. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, savory, and just a little sweet from the natural caramelization of Vidalia onions. The heavy cream creates a delicious sauce in the bottom of the baking dish, while the combination of cheeses melts into layers of creamy, stretchy goodness.

The spices blend beautifully with the sweet onions, and the whole dish bakes into a bubbling casserole that tastes like comfort food at its finest. My kids absolutely devour this every time I make it. Honestly, I usually have to hide a serving if I want leftovers. 

What Makes Vidalia Onions So Special?

Vidalia onions have a fascinating Southern history. They were actually discovered by accident when a farmer in South Georgia harvested onions that turned out sweet instead of sharp and spicy.

Because Vidalia onions grow in the low-sulfur sandy soil of South Georgia, they develop a naturally sweet flavor instead of the strong bite most onions have. In fact, Vidalia onions are so unique that federal law protects the name. Only onions grown in certain parts of Georgia can officially be called Vidalia onions. 

Their peak season runs from April through August, making this the perfect summertime casserole recipe.

If you love seasonal Southern cooking, this onion bake deserves a place on your summer dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Viral Onion Casserole

• Made with sweet Vidalia onions
• Rich, creamy cheese layers
• Easy side dish recipe
• Perfect for cookouts and summer dinners
• Great with steak, pork chops, or grilled chicken
• Naturally gluten-free
• Simple ingredients with huge flavor
• Inspired by viral Tennessee onions

What Does Tennessee Onion Casserole Taste Like?

Imagine if French onion soup, scalloped onions, and cheesy casserole all came together into one rich Southern side dish.

The onions become tender and sweet while baking. The cheeses melt together into creamy, stretchy layers, while the cream creates a rich sauce underneath. The edges caramelize beautifully, giving the casserole incredible depth of flavor.

It’s savory, cheesy, sweet, rich, and unbelievably comforting.

Ingredients for Georgia Girl Onion Bake

• 6 Vidalia onions
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon sage
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 cup gouda cheese
• 1 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup edam cheese (or another soft creamy cheese)

Ingredient Notes

Vidalia Onions

Real Vidalia onions make all the difference in this recipe. Their sweetness balances the richness of the cheese and cream beautifully.

Heavy Cream

The cream helps create a luxurious sauce in the bottom of the casserole dish while helping the onions soften and caramelize.

Cheese Blend

Using several cheeses creates better flavor and texture than using only one type.

Sharp cheeses add tang, while creamy cheeses create the rich stretchy texture.

How to Make Georgia Girl Onion Bake

Slice the Vidalia Onions

Slice off both ends of the onions. Then, remove the outer peel layer carefully with a knife or your hands. Carefully lay the onion flat on the cutting board and slice into rings about 1/4 inch thick.

Try to keep the slices evenly sized so the onions cook uniformly.

Prepare the Cheese

Grate all of the cheeses fresh if possible. Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded cheese and gives the casserole a creamier texture. You can mix the cheeses together or keep them separate while layering.

Layer the Onion Casserole

Pour the heavy cream into the bottom of your casserole dish. Then sprinkle a little seasoning directly into the cream. Arrange a layer of onion slices across the bottom.

Sprinkle more seasoning over the onions. Add a layer of shredded cheese over the onions.

Repeat the layers until the casserole dish is full. Most people use 2 layers, but you can absolutely add more if your dish is deep enough.

Bake

Bake at 375°F for about 1 hour.

The casserole is ready when:

• The cheese is bubbling
• The onions are soft
• The edges are golden brown
• The onions have lightly caramelized

Do not rush the bake time. The caramelization creates the best flavor.

Print

Viral Georgia Girl Onion Bake- Tennessee Onions

Georgia Girl onions are a baked onion casserole made with thick slices of sweet onions (usually Vidalia), layered with cream, cheese, and seasonings. They’re baked until tender, golden, and bubbling—like French onion soup meets a cheesy side dish.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword casseroles, onions, Viral

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Equipment

• 1 Casserole Dish

Ingredients

• 6 Vidalia onions
• 1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
• 2 Tbs Paprika
• 1 Tbs Sage
• 1 Tbs Salt
• 1 bs pepper
• 1 Cup parmesan cheese
• 1 cup gouda cheese
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Edam cheese

Instructions

• Grate all of your cheeses. You can mix them all in a bowl or leave them separate.
• Peel your onions. Slice them into 1/4" layers int eh shape of a ring. Don't separate the layers.
• Pour the heavy cream into the bottom of your dish. Sprinkle a bit of each seasoning into the cream.
• Then, layer the onions into bottom of the dish. Lay the onions flat and cover the bottom of the dish.
• Next,sprinkle more seasoning and cheese over the layer of onions. Add more seasoning to the cheese layer too.
• Repeat the layers until you've used all the onions and cheese. Be sure to cover then top with cheese.
• Bake at 375º for about an hour, or until the cheese is bubbly.

Best Cheeses for Tennessee Onion Casserole

One of the best parts of this recipe is customizing the cheese blend.

Try combinations of cheeses like:

• Sharp cheddar
• Smoked gouda
• Gruyere
• Parmesan
• Monterey jack
• Fontina
• Mozzarella
• Swiss cheese

A combination of creamy, smoky, tangy, and sharp cheeses creates the best flavor.

Tips for the Best Onion Casserole

Use real Vidalia onions

This recipe truly tastes best with authentic Vidalia onions. Vidalia onions are more than just a sweet onion. They hold unique flavor that truly makes this dish special.

Grate cheese fresh

Fresh cheese melts smoother and creates a creamier casserole. Plus, there’s something magical about using your hands to craft a meal from scratch. It’s like pouring a piece of yourself into the dish.

Season every layer

Layering the seasoning throughout the casserole gives much better flavor than seasoning only the top. You want every bite to have little burst of flavor.

Let it caramelize

Allow enough baking time for the onions to soften and sweeten. Heat causes several changes in onions, and they have to go through all the stages before they get to caramelization. First, they’ll sweat. Then they’ll soften. The longest stage is just cooking the onions enough to get the butter and onions to begin caramelizing. So be patient.

Use a deep baking dish

The onions cook down significantly while baking. The deeper your dish, the more layers you can create. The onions will flatten as they cook, so make sure you have at least two layers. This recipe is not a recipe for a baking sheet- you need a study casserole dish or skillet.

Variations and Add-Ins

One of the beautiful things about this casserole is its simplicity, but there are still several delicious ways to customize it. Use all of your cooking skills to create a truly unique meal. The recipe is just a foundation. You get to build what you want.

Add Garlic

Fresh garlic adds even more savory depth. Garlic is aromatic, savory, a little bit spicy, and even a tad medicinal!

Try Different Herbs

Instead of sage, try:

• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Italian seasoning

I just happen to enjoy the earthiness of sage. Use what you like, or what your family likes.

Add Mushrooms

Mushrooms pair beautifully with caramelized onions and cheese. Now, keep in mind that this will significantly change the texture, as well as increase the cook time. Mushrooms have a lot of moisture, and all of that has to cook off before the onions can caramelize.

Add Bacon

Crispy bacon takes this casserole to another level. If it were me, I would cook the bacon separately and sprinkle bits of it over the finished casserole.

Substitutions

Can I Use Other Onions?

You can mix in other onions, but Vidalia onions should still be the star of the dish. Trust me. As a native of the state where these onions come from, I know the significance of a vidalia onion. Remember in the movie (or book) “Holes”- onions are “nature’s magic vegetable”. Use Vidalia onions to experience that for yourself.

Yellow onions or sweet onions may work in a pinch, but the flavor will not be quite the same. It will still be a great side dish. But there is a reason that the recipe for Vidalia onion casserole went viral.

Can I Use Butter Instead of Cream?

Yes. Butter can replace the heavy cream if needed. You can never go wrong with butter.

The casserole will still be delicious, although slightly less creamy.

What to Serve with Georgia Girl Onion Bake

This casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled steak
• Pork chops
• BBQ chicken
• Burgers
• Smoked brisket
• Roast chicken
• Grilled fish

It’s especially popular during cookout season because it pairs well with grilled meats and Southern summer meals.

How to Store Onion Casserole

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days. You can also assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it unbaked for a day or two before cooking. The flavors become even deeper as the onions rest together.

More From-Scratch Recipes You’ll Love

• Superior Pan Seared Pork Chops In Mushroom And Onion Gravy
• How to Make Caramelized Onions
• Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole From Scratch (With Crunchy Topping)
• The Best Creamy Potato Soup From Scratch

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This Georgia Girl Onion Bake is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Sweet Vidalia onions, bubbling cheese, rich cream, and savory seasonings bake together into the ultimate Southern comfort food side dish.

Whether you call it Tennessee onions, onion casserole, or Vidalia onion bake, one thing is certain: people always go back for seconds.

If you make this recipe, leave a comment and let us know your favorite cheese combination.

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post Georgia Girl Onion Bake (A Viral Vidalia Onion Casserole) appeared first on Plain Living.

There’s just something about peaches that feels like summertime. Maybe it’s because I grew up in the Peach State, or maybe it’s because warm peach cobbler always seems to show up at family gatherings, church potlucks, and summer suppers. Either way, peaches are one of our favorite summer fruits, and this fluffy sourdough peach cobbler has become one of those recipes we make again and again every peach season.

This recipe combines the cozy flavor of old-fashioned peach cobbler with a fluffy sourdough batter that bakes up soft in the center and crisp around the edges. It tastes almost like a cross between a pancake, a cobbler, and a rustic skillet cake. The sourdough adds depth of flavor without making the dessert taste overly sour.

If you’re looking for a simple sourdough discard dessert recipe that uses fresh peaches and pantry staples, this recipe is one of the easiest ways to turn summer fruit into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Peach Cobbler

• Uses simple, real-food ingredients
• Great way to use extra sourdough discard
• Naturally long-fermented for better flavor
• Crispy buttery edges with a fluffy center
• Easy cast iron skillet dessert
• Works with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches
• Perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks

What Makes This Peach Cobbler Recipe Different

Most peach cobbler recipes use biscuit dough or cake batter. This recipe uses a fluffy sourdough batter that ferments for several hours before baking. The result is a softer texture with richer flavor and better digestibility.

The peaches create their own sweet syrup while resting with sugar and vanilla, which helps give the cobbler its gooey filling without needing complicated steps or extra thickeners.

This recipe is also flexible. You can make it with active sourdough starter or sourdough discard, and you can swap the peaches for nearly any seasonal fruit.

Ingredients for Fluffy Sourdough Peach Cobbler

Sourdough Cobbler Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter or sourdough discard
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• Pinch of salt
• 2 eggs

For the Peach Filling

• 4 fresh peaches
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Melt in the Skillet

• 2 tablespoons butter

Ingredient Notes

Peaches

Fresh peaches give the best flavor and texture. Look for ripe peaches that smell sweet and give slightly when pressed. If peaches are not in season, frozen peaches work well too.

Sourdough Starter

This recipe works with either active starter or discard. Active starter gives slightly more rise, while discard gives a richer sourdough flavor.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk helps create a tender texture and adds a slight tang that pairs perfectly with the peaches.

Maple Syrup

The maple syrup sweetens the batter gently without overpowering the fruit.

How to Make Fluffy Sourdough Peach Cobbler

1: Prepare the Peaches

Peel the peaches and remove the pits. Slice the peaches into roughly 1/4-inch slices.

Place the peaches into a bowl with the sugar and vanilla extract. Stir well until all the peaches are coated.

Cover the bowl and allow the peaches to rest for 4–8 hours. During this time, the sugar will pull moisture from the peaches and create a delicious syrup.

2: Prepare the Sourdough Batter

In a separate bowl, mix together:

• Flour
• Buttermilk
• Sourdough starter
• Maple syrup
• Salt
• Eggs

Stir until fully combined.

Cover the bowl and allow the batter to ferment at room temperature for 4–8 hours.

If you prefer not to leave eggs at room temperature, you can mix everything except the eggs before fermenting and stir the eggs in just before baking.

3: Preheat the Skillet

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Place a cast iron skillet into the oven for a few minutes to warm.

Carefully remove the hot skillet and add the butter. Swirl the butter around until melted and coating the bottom of the skillet.

4: Assemble the Cobbler

Pour the sourdough batter into the hot buttered skillet.

Spoon the peaches and syrup evenly over the top of the batter.

Do not stir. As the cobbler bakes, the batter will puff up around the peaches.

5: Bake your Sourdough Peach Cobbler to Perfection

Bake until the cobbler is fluffy and golden brown with crispy edges.

Depending on your skillet size and oven, this usually takes about 30–40 minutes.

The center should be set, and the edges should be deeply golden.

Tips for the Best Sourdough Peach Cobbler

Use ripe peaches

The sweeter and juicier the peaches, the better the cobbler will taste.

Don’t skip the resting time

Allowing both the peaches and batter to rest develops flavor and texture.

Preheat the skillet

A hot skillet helps create buttery crispy edges.

Use cast iron if possible

Cast iron distributes heat evenly and gives the cobbler a classic rustic texture.

Add eggs later if preferred

If you’re cautious about leaving eggs at room temperature, simply add them after fermentation.

Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about this sourdough peach cobbler recipe is how easy it is to customize.

Try Different Fruits

You can replace the peaches with:

• Blueberries
• Blackberries
• Strawberries
• Apples
• Pears
• Mixed berries
• Cherries

Add Warm Spices

For a cozy flavor, try adding:

• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ginger
• Cardamom

Add a Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle the top with:

• Brown sugar
• Oats
• Chopped pecans
• Sliced almonds

Frozen Peaches

Thaw and drain them first so the cobbler does not become watery.

Canned Peaches

Drain most of the liquid before using. Peaches canned in juice usually work better than peaches canned in heavy syrup.

Substitutions

Sweetener Options

You can use honey, coconut sugar, or brown sugar instead of white sugar.

Keep in mind that traditional sugar helps pull juice from the peaches to create the syrupy filling. If using alternative sweeteners, you may want to simmer the peaches briefly to help create the sauce.

Flour Options

All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute part of the flour with fresh milled flour or whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Dairy-Free Option

Use dairy-free butter and substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.

Serving Suggestions

This fluffy sourdough peach cobbler is delicious served:

• Warm from the oven
• With vanilla ice cream
• With homemade whipped cream
• Alongside fresh coffee
• As a summer brunch dessert
• At potlucks and family gatherings

How to Store Sourdough Peach Cobbler

Store leftover cobbler covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.

To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or place the skillet back into a low oven until warmed through.

Can You Freeze Peach Cobbler?

Yes, although the texture is best fresh.

Allow the cobbler to cool completely before freezing. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This fluffy sourdough peach cobbler is one of those simple old-fashioned recipes that feels special every single time you make it. The buttery crispy edges, juicy peaches, and fluffy sourdough batter make it the perfect dessert for peach season.

Whether you’re trying to use extra sourdough discard, looking for an easy cast iron dessert, or wanting a cozy summer recipe for your family, this cobbler is always a hit.

If you make this recipe, leave a comment and let us know how it turned out for your family.

Other Summer Recipes to Try

• Simple Strawberry Banana Homemade Popsicles
• Easy 3 Ingredient Refreshing Homemade Lime Popsicles
• Best Peaches and Cream Popsicles: Hearty Homemade Summer Treat
• Homemade Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate and How to Can It

Print

Fluffy Sourdough Peach Cobbler

This delicious dessert is the perfect combination of fluffy sourdough pancake batter and fresh, juicy, tangy peaches.,

Course Dessert

Keyword sourdough

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes minutes

ferment/rest 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 45 minutes minutes

Servings 8 people

Calories 241kcal

Equipment

• 1 skillet

Ingredients

Sourdough cobbler batter

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup starter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• pinch salt
• 2 eggs

Peach Filling

• 4 peaches, peeled, cored and sliced
• 1 Tbs vanilla
• 3/4 cup sugar

Instructions

Prep the batter and peaches

• Slices the peaches. Cover with sugar and vanilla. Make sure all peaches are coated well.

Prep the sourdough pancake batter

• Mix all of the batter ingredients. Whisk together to remove all lumps.
• Cover the bowl.

Allow both portions to rest.

• Let the sourdough cobbler batter rest on the counter to ferment.
• Allow the peaches to rest. The sugar will draw the moisture out of the fresh peaches and create a natural syrup.

Preheat the oven and skillet

• Heat the oven to 375-400°, depending on your oven.
• Place the skillet in the oven to preheat a bit.
• When you're ready to combine the two portions of the recipe, take the skillet out and melt 2 Tbs of butter in the skillet.
• When the butter is melted, pour the fermented cobbler batter into the skillet.
• Pour the peaches and syrup over the the batter and spread the peaches around evenly.
• Bake for 35-45 minutes. The batter will puff up into a fluffy cobbler while the peaches cook. bake until the edges of the cobbler rise over the edge of the skillet and get golden and crispy.

Notes

This fluffy sourdough peach cobbler combines juicy peaches with a soft sourdough batter that bakes up golden and crisp around the edges. The long fermentation gives the cobbler extra depth of flavor while keeping the texture light and tender. This recipe works well with active sourdough starter or sourdough discard and can be made with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches. For best results, use ripe summer peaches and a preheated cast iron skillet to create crispy buttery edges. If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream for a classic Southern-style dessert. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to one week and reheated before serving.

Sourdough peach cobbler is a southern classic that’s practically built for the Homestead Kitchen.

Nutrition

Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 59mg | Potassium: 189mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 353IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 1mg

About the Author

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post How to Make the Best Sourdough Peach Cobbler appeared first on Plain Living.

These banana muffins with fresh milled flour are soft, filling, and perfect for using up overripe bananas. Made with freshly milled spelt or wheat flour, yogurt, cinnamon, and optional chocolate chips or streusel, they make an easy grab-and-go breakfast, homeschool snack, or freezer-friendly treat for busy family days.

This banana muffin recipe is basically just banana bread- but portable. Muffins are quicker and easier to bake. Plus, they come in individual portions, which means less dishes when it’s time to serve them. They freeze well and keep kids full for a long time too.

Why You’ll Love These Fresh Milled Flour Banana Muffins

• Uses up overripe bananas instead of wasting them.
• Made with fresh milled flour for a heartier, more nourishing muffin.
• Soft and moist thanks to yogurt and melted butter.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead breakfasts and snacks.
• Flexible with chocolate chips, streusel, nuts, or plain batter.

Why use fresh milled flour

Fresh milled flour is a whole food. Industrial processing has not removed any important parts. You can know that a factory has not treated it with chemicals. You can read more about all the amazing benefits of using fresh milled flour in my blog post about it.

Fresh milled flour can be a very budget friendly way to get a lot of nutrients into your diet. Homesteaders often have myriad avenues to get nutrition into their family’s regular meals. Pasture raised meats provide high quality protein. Raw milk from grass fed cows provides amazing nutrition. Homegrown fruits and veggies that come from healthy soil are full of vitamins and minerals.

When those other things are not an option, or resources run low, fresh milled flour can be a simpler way to boost the diet. Bulk grains store easily, take up very little space, and last forever. Milling flour and making baked goods can be much less labor intensive than raising animals. Fresh milled flour doesn’t have to be an all day, everyday solution, but it is an excellent solution for nutrition in a lot of seasons.

How to Use Overripe Bananas in Muffins

Banana bread has long been the champion of using up old, gross banana that are past their prime. This muffin recipe is no different. When you forget to use up fresh banana, or no one wants to eat them, you can whip up this recipe. Even still, if no one wants the muffins while they’re fresh, you can pop them in the freezer. Then, pull them out when everyone is in the mood for them.

With the price of groceries ever increasing, learning to transform food into something new and wonderful is a necessary skill. You’ll need to practice turning ingredients that are almost expired into a new, edible creation. Whether that means taking leftovers and cooking a whole new meal with them, or rescuing your overripe banana to make muffins, it’s a skill worth having. And this muffin recipe is a great place to start!

Flour to use in your banana muffins

Fresh milled flour is a broad term that describes a flour that you mill yourself, right in your kitchen, from a whole grain. It can be a vague term since there are more than 20 whole grains and dozens of species within each category. Most recipes will specify flour type within the ingredients list. This recipe is specifically designed for spelt, soft white wheat, and hard red wheat.

Don’t get too bogged down with the fresh milled flour world. You will quickly get sucked into a rabbit hole that raises more questions than answers. Pick a grain, and learn to use it. Once you have a feel for it, you can expand to other grains. Don’t feel pressured to pick the perfect grain either. The internet will have you convinced that you aren’t taking care of your family unless you do exactly what some influencer says, but that’s not true.

Any whole grain made into fresh milled flour is going to be exponentially more nutritious than store bought flour, purely for the fact that the store-bought flour has a ridiculously long shelf life. All that time spent on the shelf makes that flour devoid of life and nutrition. Check out Azure Standard or the Bread Beckers for bulk grain options.

Ingredients for banana muffins

In addition to the fresh milled flour and almost-gone bananas, you’ll need a few other pantry staples.

• salt (use a high quality salt like this or this)
• baking powder
• baking soda
• butter, melted
• egg
• sugar (any sugar works, but we like coconut sugar or honey)
• 1 cup greek yogurt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• optional: add a cup of chocolate chips for a chocolate chip banana muffin

For more simple breakfast and baking ideas, browse the Plain Living Home Recipe Index.

Ingredients to make a streusel topping

• flour
• brown sugar
• sugar
• cinnamon
• salt
• cold butter

How to make banana muffins

Just like many other baked goods recipe, this one follow a basic principle. Mix wet ingredients. Mix dry ingredients. Then combine the two.

Smash the bananas and mix wet ingredients

Use a fork, pastry cutter, or potato smasher to mush the banana up. You can leave chunks, or smash it until it is smooth. That is totally up to you and your preferences. Then mix in all of the remaining wet ingredients. I’m including all of these as wet ingredients: melted butter, egg, yogurt.

Mix dry ingredients separately

In a separate bowl or container, I mix together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Whisk those together well to incorporate the soda and baking powder, or you may end up with a clump that makes a bite taste nasty.

Then, mix in the sugar and cinnamon. All of your dry ingredients should be thoroughly combined. Even though you may be tempted, don’t sift the flour. Sifting will remove some of the most nutritious parts of your fresh milled flour

Mix all the muffin ingredients together

Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until all of the dry mix has become wet. Set this bowl aside while you preheat the oven and prep your muffin pans. Fresh milled flour takes a little extra time to soak up liquid. That soaking time will allow you to preheat the oven well. Fresh milled flour behaves differently from store-bought flour; I explain more about hydration and dough behavior in my beginner guide to kneading dough.

Preheat your oven and prepare muffin tins

Set your oven to 400º. Once it’s preheated, give it another 5-10 minutes to regulate the temperature inside. Meanwhile, place a cupcake liner into each cavity in your muffin pan. This recipe will make 12 extra large muffins or 24 regular muffins.

We like to make extra large muffins if they’re meant to be a complete meal or regular size if they’re just a snack. You could even do mini muffins if you have smaller kids or want more portions. I use these XL muffin pans and these liners.

If you want to add the optional streusel, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut the butter into the mixture until it’s crumbly. Sprinkle streusel over each muffin.

Bake your banana muffins

Put your muffins into the oven and let them bake for 20 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it is clean, the muffins are fully baked. Return them to the oven for a few minutes if the toothpick has batter on it. If you’re doing a different size muffin, try these baking times:

• mini muffins: bake 10 minutes, or reduce oven to 375º for 15 minutes.
• standard muffins: bake 18 minutes
• XL muffins: bake 20-22 minutes, or longer if need

Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Serve warm with butter. You can also let them cool and place them in a cookie jar or pie plate on display. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them.

How to freeze banana muffins

Allow the muffins to cool completely. Store in a gallon size freezer bag. Squeeze all the extra air out of the bag and seal it well. They will stay fresh up to about 6 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to serve them, you can pull an entire bag out or individual muffins. Set them on the counter to thaw or microwave for 10 seconds at a time.

How to serve banana muffins

Banana muffins go great with several other foods. For another cozy fresh milled breakfast bake, try my fresh milled flour cinnamon rolls. These rolls and Banana muffins are pretty filling as a standalone meal or snack, but you could also try them with:

• a cup of coffee
• scrambled eggs
• a fruit smoothie
• healthy popsicles to make it fun

For a fun warm-weather snack plate, serve these muffins with homemade orange creamsicle popsicles.

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
• Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days if your kitchen is warm.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled muffins in a freezer bag for up to 6 months.
• To reheat: Microwave 10–20 seconds or warm in the oven until soft.

Fresh Milled Flour Banana Muffins FAQs

Print

Banana Muffins with Fresh Milled Flour

A classic favorite for using up bananas when they're too brown to eat- these banana muffins have nutritional super powers. Use fresh milled flour to make this healthy snack or grab-n-go breakfast.

Course bread, Breakfast, Dessert, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword fresh milled flour, made from scratch, muffins

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 18 minutes minutes

Total Time 33 minutes minutes

Servings 12 XL muffins

Calories 371kcal

Equipment

• 2 medium bowl
• 1 pastry cutter
• 1 xl muffin tin
• xl muffin liners
• 1 whisk
• 1 grain mill optional if you have a source for fresh milled flour

Ingredients

Banana Muffin Batter

• 3 bananas overripe, brown, but not rotten
• 2 1/4 C spelt or wheat, freshly milled
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 C sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 C butter melted
• 1 egg
• 1 C yogurt greek or regular
• 1 C chocolate chips optional

Ingredients to make a streusel topping

• 1/4 C flour
• 2 Tbs brown sugar
• 2 Tbs sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 pinch salt
• 2-3 Tbs cold butter

Instructions

How to make banana muffins

• Just like many other baked goods recipe, this one follow a basic principle. Mix wet ingredients. Mix dry ingredients. Then combine the two.

Smash the bananas and mix wet ingredients

• Use a fork, pastry cutter, or potato smasher to mush the banana up. You can leave chunks, or smash it until it is smooth. That is totally up to you and your preferences. Then mix in all of the remaining wet ingredients. I'm including all of these as wet ingredients: melted butter, egg, yogurt.

Mix dry ingredients separately

• In a separate bowl or container, I mid together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Whisk those together well to incorporate the soda and baking powder, or you may end up with a clump that makes a bite taste nasty.
• Then, mix in the sugar and cinnamon. All of your dry ingredients should be thoroughly combined. Even though you may be tempted, don’t sift the flour. Sifting will remove some of the most nutritious parts of your fresh milled flour

Mix all the muffin ingredients together

• Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until all of the dry mix has become wet. Set this bowl aside while you preheat the oven and prep your muffin pans. Fresh milled flour takes a little extra time to soak up liquid. That soaking time will allow you to preheat the oven well.

Preheat your oven and prepare muffin tins

• Set your oven to 400º. Once it’s preheated, give it another 5-10 minutes to regulate the temperature inside. Meanwhile, place a cupcake liner into each cavity in your muffin pan. This recipe will make 12 extra large muffins or 24 regular muffins.
• We like to make extra large muffins if they’re meant to be a complete meal or regular size if they’re just a snack. You could even do mini muffins if you have smaller kids or want more portions. I use these XL muffin pans and these liners.
• If you want to add the optional streusel, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut the butter into the mixture until it’s crumbly. Sprinkle streusel over each muffin.

Bake your banana muffins

• Put your muffins into the oven and let them bake for 20 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are fully baked. If not, return them to the oven for a few minutes. If you’re doing a different size muffin, try these baking times:
• mini muffins: bake 10 minutes, or reduce oven to 375º for 15 minutes.
• standard muffins: bake 18 minutes
• XL muffins: bake 20-22 minutes, or longer if need
• Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Serve warm with butter. You can also let them cool and place them in a cookie jar or pie plate on display. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them.

Notes

Let the batter rest 10-15 minutes so the flour can absorb the liquid well.

Nutrition

Calories: 371kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 418mg | Potassium: 321mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 357IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 2mg

More Fresh Milled Flour Recipes to Try

• Fresh Milled Flour: What It Is & Why It Matters
• How to Make Amazing Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour
• How to Measure Flour Correctly
• Easy 3 Ingredient Sausage Balls
• Browse the Recipe Index

Kim is a homeschooling mama of 5 who has been teaching her children at home since the very beginning — from preschool through high school. Over the past decade, she and her family have built a homestead from the ground up, starting with meat and egg chickens, growing into a large garden, and learning to preserve their harvest.

She taught herself to sew 13 years ago through books and early YouTube tutorials, and has been making modest, affordable clothing for her girls ever since.

Cooking from scratch became a necessity and a passion as her family learned to eat more nutritionally and live more frugally. She tests all of her sourdough and fresh milled flour recipes on the kids to ensure they’re delicious and nutritious.

At Plain Living, Kim shares what she’s actually lived — not theory, but the real skills she’s picked up through years of trial, error, and love for her family and home.

The post How to Make Banana Muffins with Fresh Milled Flour appeared first on Plain Living.

Table of contents

• Homemade Orange Popsicles
• Why You’ll Love This Popsicle Recipe
• Simple Ingredients for Creamsicles
• Equipment Needed
• How to Make Your Homemade Orange Popsicle Creamsicles
• How to Store Orange Popsicle Creamsicles
• Make-Ahead and Batch Cooking Tips for Popsicles
• Printable Recipe Card
• Leave a Comment and Share Your Results

---

Why You’ll Love This Popsicle Recipe

I can think of a lot of reasons to love this recipe. First, it’s simple. With just a few ingredients that you probably have in the pantry, you make a decadent treat. You can feel good about giving it to your kids. It is easy to make. In our family, it’s always a hit- even with 5 kids that have strong and differing tastes and opinions.

It’s super simple! Just whisk everything in a bowl, pour in into your molds, and freeze. You won’t need a blender, which makes this recipe easier to clean up than other recipes. We’re all about simple here a Plain Living. Especially during the summer when we just want to spend time outdoors.

---

Simple Ingredients for Creamsicles

Oranges to juice

You’ll need some oranges. This ingredient is super flexible. You a use any type of orange, or even orange juice if that’s what you have. We always have mandarins around, and they’re the perfect combination of tangy and sweet. You’ll get vitamin C and tons of flavor from any type of orange. Juice the oranges and strain out the seeds.

Cream- it’s in the name!

You can’t make a creamsicle recipe without cream. You’ll need heavy cream for your creamsicles. You can always opt for a lighter option with half and half, milk, or some kind of plain yogurt. We love cream and since it’s for the kids, I’m not really concerning myself with calories.

Make your creamsicles sweet with healthy options

For sweetener, we like to use maple syrup or honey. We almost always have those two ingredients in the pantry. using a natural sweetener makes me feel better about making treats all the time compared to store-bought sugar snacks with high fructose corn syrup or processed sugar. You can absolutely use regular sugar if that’s what you have.

I also like to stick with the syrup or honey because they’re liquid. It’s a lot easier to mix them into the popsicle mixture and avoid any grittiness.

---

Equipment Needed

You will need two main things for this creamsicle recipe: popsicle molds and popsicle sticks. Of course you’ll need a bowl to mix your batter up in. We’ve tried a few different molds and this is our favorite. I really like the shape that it makes.

For popsicle sticks, we just buy the cheap ones in bulk. You could get reusable ones like this if you want eco-friendly popsicles.

---

How to Make Your Homemade Orange Popsicle Creamsicles

Mix

Whisk together all of the ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined.

Mold

Carefully pour your mixture into your popsicle mold. Insert a popsicle stick into each cavity.

Freeze

Place the popsicles in the freezer to set up. Leave for 4 or more hours.

Un-mold and Serve

Gently remove the popsicle from the mold. Serve immediately on a hot day, or store in an airtight container in the freezer.

---

Tips to help when you’re making Homemade Popsicles

• Plan ahead for when you want to enjoy your popsicles so they’re frozen and ready when it’s time to eat them.
• Spend a few extra seconds mixing so everything is really well combined. You don’t want it to separate as it freezes
• When you un-mold, place the popsicles on a bed of ice in a large casserole dish to keep them from melting while you prepare to serve them

---

How to Store Orange Popsicle Creamsicles

Do NOT store your popsicles in the mold. They’re more likely to get freezer burned since they’re exposed to the air. Remove the creamsicle’s and select a storage option:

• Store individually in snacks size zip top bags
• store in a large tupperware style container with parchment or wax paper in between layers
• They’ll keep for about 20 minutes on a bed of ice while you’re serving them fresh

---

Make-Ahead and Batch Cooking Tips for Popsicles

Homemade popsicles are an awesome summer treat. Make up several recipes ahead of time so everyone can choose their favorite. Some of the recipes we enjoy are:

• Simple Strawberry Banana Homemade Popsicles
• Easy 3 Ingredient Refreshing Homemade Lime Popsicles

If you only have a few kids, or if you just want options, try cutting the recipe in half or 1/4th. Then make several different recipes to freeze all at once.

---

---

Printable Recipe Card

Print

Homemade Orange Creamsicles

Creamy, tangy, frozen decadence. These handheld treats are the perfect refresher for a hot summer day. A few simple ingredients turn into a luxurious snack that's bright and filling.

Course Dessert, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword popsicles

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

freezer 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8 popsicles

Calories 218kcal

Equipment

• 1 popsicle mold
• 8 popsicle sticks
• 1 medium bowl
• 1 whisk

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup orange juice fresh squeezed is best for flavor
• 1/4 cup maple syrup adjust to taste based on sweetness of orange juice
• 1 splash vanilla optional

Instructions

• Whisk all ingredients together until fully incorporated.
• Insert popsicle sticks into mold.
• Pour about 100ml or a scant 1/2 cup into each cavity.
• Place in freezer for 4 hours or overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 134mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 827IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 0.1mg

---

Leave a Comment and Share Your Results

The post How to Make Homemade Orange Popsicles (Creamsicle Recipe) appeared first on Plain Living.

Table of contents

• Cinnamon Rolls with Buttercream Icing
• Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• Other ingredients
• Equipment Needed
• How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour(Step-by-Step)
• How to Store Cinnamon Rolls
• How Fresh Milled Flour Affects Cinnamon Rolls
• Printable Recipe Card
• Leave a Comment and Share Your Results

---

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls

When I first started using fresh milled flour, I thought everything would be gritty and we would just have to get used to it in the name of nutrition. I even said “who wants a biscuits made with whole wheat? Nobody.” But once I actually started using fresh milled wheat, spelt, and rye, I realized the end product is incredible.

Baked good make with fresh milled flour turn out fluffy and flavorful. There’s no gritty texture. Cinnamon rolls are no different. The fresh milled flour makes a beautiful, soft, fluffy dough that makes the perfect vessel for the cinnamon sugar filling and the buttercream icing.

My kids devour these. They don’t even notice that they’re made with fresh milled flour.

---

A Brief History of Flour

Before the Industrial Revolution, each village or town had a mill. Members of the community could get enough grains milled for just a few days or a week at a time. That’s about what each household could store. The local mill allowed an entire area to grind their grains into flour and meal without individuals making a major investment.

The industrial revolution changed that with the advent of a steam powered mill. With the industrial age beginning, people left rural farm areas and moved into cities. Instead of each household going to the mill for a weeks worth of flour, the mills began mass producing flours and meals. Mass production meant two things. First, there was more flour available than what was needed locally. Second, the large mills put the small ones out of work, meaning areas further from the mills needed their flour to be stored and transported.

Flour needed to last 6 months to a year to survive this process. Unfortunately, flour goes rancid and loses its nutrients completely within 6 months. By the 1930s, the government intervened and required flour to be enriched. The enrichment process added back in a handful of nutrients after the flour was milled and processed. Typically 5 nutrients are added to enriched flour- compared to over 40 in most whole grains.

Why Fresh Milled Flour Is Better Than Store Bought

The first and obvious reason is the nutrition. Dead, empty flour could never compete with a whoel grain full of vitamins and minerals.

Secondly, whole grains are affordable. When you buy in bulk, you can save a significant amount of money. With inflation soaring and grocery prices rising, every little bit helps.

And finally, the bulk options make it easy to stock up. Whole grains store well and last for a very long time.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Milled Flour

Fresh milled flour is sort of a vague term that encompasses a lot of different ingredients. Technically, fresh milled flour could be make from spelt, rye, wheat, rice, barley, einkorn, kamut and more! I only have experience with both soft and hard, red and white wheats, spelt, and rye. This recipe works great with any wheat flour and with spelt! Just mill your grains as you measure the rest of your ingredients for the best results.

Yeast

There are 2 basic kinds of yeast that you will find available in the store. The first is intent yeast and it works quickly. The granules are smaller. This type of yeast can be mixed in with dry ingredients. It work great in bread machines.

The second type of yeast is active dry yeast. It has larger granules and needs to be activated by soaking in warm water. It has a bit more rising power and works better in recipes that require a longer rise time.

Either type of yeast will work in this recipe- just remember that if you choose active dry yeast, you’ll need to let it bloom in the warm water first.

Sunflower Lecithin

I learned about sunflower lecithin from the bread Beckers, who provide a wealth of information about healthy grains. Lecithin is a great additive to your fresh milled flour breads because it strengthens the dough. Fresh milled flour naturally has less gluten, which develops slower than all purpose fortified flours.

Even though the lecithin serves a practical purpose, it also has nutritional benefits. Sunflower lecithin is known to provide digestive support, cholesterol lowering compound, great milk production, heart and brain support, and more!

High Quality Salt

I started trying different salts over a decade ago. Our first “new” salt was pink Himalayan sea salt. It’s pretty widely available in grocery stores. It’s better than processed, iodized table salt.

Then we tried Celtic Sea salt. It’s delicious and comes in several different sizes.

But then I learned about Remond Real Salt from Homesteading Family, a YouTube channel that teaches all about growing a homestead and eating well. It is full of nutrients, and still pretty affordable. I like that it’s available in bulk, and it’s also great for livestock.

Bumble Bee Apothecary, a YouTube channel and website about healthy living recommended Baja Gold Salt. It is truly a different experience to use this salt. The flavor profile is much broader. however, it is more expensive.

I like to keep an assortment of healthy salt options around for healthy eating. Use whichever salt you have on hand or prefer, but definitely consider some of these other options over cheap able salt.

Butter

I don’t believe in unsalted butter. But that’s for another day. Cinnamon rolls use butter for both the dough and the cinnamon sugar filling. If you decide to make a buttercream icing, you’ll need even more butter. All that butter makes these cinnamon rolls particularly decadent.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the star of the show here. It gives the perfect spicy balance to the brown sugar to make the delicious filling. Cinnamon is actually more than one plant- it can be obtained from the inner bark of several different types of trees. There are some people out there whom I would call cinnamon snobs. There’s no need to be a cinnamon snob for this recipe. Any ground cinnamon will work.

Other ingredients

You will also need the following ingredients for your cinnamon roll dough, filling, and icing:

• milk
• egs
• brown sugar
• vanilla
• heavy cream

---

Equipment Needed

Grain mill

This recipe calls for fresh milled flour. Granted, you might have access to fresh milled flour through a friend or a local farmer’s market. But most likely, you will need to mill the flour yourself. There are rave reviews all over the internet about the Nutrimill and the MockMill. I just bought the cheapest option available on amazon at the time I had the money saved.

My grain mill is some odd off brand that’s no longer available. I have had it for 5 years now and it’s still going strong. Even though I can’t give you an exact link to it, I just want to encourage you that it’s okay to not buy the big name brand mill that you see all the YouTube and bloggers using.

Stand Mixer

I prefer to make this recipe with my stand mixer. It makes both the dough and the icing so much easier to make. However, you can do the entire recipe by hand if needed. You’ll have the knead the dough and whisk the buttercream.

---

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour(Step-by-Step)

1: First, Mill the Flour and Measure the Ingredients

Since you’ll need 4.5 cups of fresh milled flour, you should expect to put about 3 to 3.5 cups of grain into the mill. Put the grain in the hopper and turn the mill on. Meanwhile, you can measure the remaining ingredients so they’re ready to mix.

2: Next, combine ingredients

Warm your milk (or water) slightly and add to the mixed bowl. If you chose active dry yeast, add it and allow it to bloom for 10-15 minutes. Add 6 tablespoons of melted butter, honey, and eggs to the milk and yeast mixture. Then, add the fresh milled flour. Mix until all of the flour is wet.

Step 3: Let the flour rest

Fresh milled flour naturally takes longer to absorb liquid. Once it is all coated well, allow it to rest for 10 minutes or so. If you skip this step, it will take a very long time for your dough to reach the correct stage.

Step 4: Knead

Doughs made with fresh milled flour take much longer to knead. You can still aim for dough that is glossy and passes the window pane test, just like most doughs. However, fresh milled flour will take much longer to develop gluten than all purpose flour. I typically turn my mixer on 3-4 with the dough hook installed, then set a timer for 15 minutes and walk away.

5: Bulk Rise

This step consists of more waiting. Cover the dough with a tea towels or a bowl cover and allow it to rise for 45 to 60 minutes. It should double in size.

Step 6: Roll and Roll again

This step is the fun part! On a floured counter, roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4″ thick. Mix together 12 Tbs softened butter, 1.5 Cups brown sugar, and 3 Tbs cinnamon. Spread this mixture all over the dough rectangle. With a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 1″ strips. Then roll each strip into a tight spiral to create the cinnamon rolls. Place the rolls into a buttered 9×13 dish.

7: Second Rise

Now there’s more waiting. This recipe feels like waiting and not much else, but it’s so worth it. Plus, all the down time in between steps gives you time to get other stuff done around the kitchen! Allow your cinnamon rolls to rise for another hour while covered with a damp tea towel. When they’re light and fluffy, bake at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to mostly cool so the icing doesn’t melt.

Step 8: Icing

While the cinnamon rolls cool, prepare the buttercream icing. First, whip your softened butter for 5-10 minutes. Trust me, this step is necessary. It will make your icing velvety smooth.

Then, sift your powdered sugar in and continue to whip until the sugar is fully incorporated into the butter. Next, add vanilla and heavy cream until the icing is the consistency you desire. I prefer my icing to be a bit thick because I want to put it on warm rolls and it tends to melt. Finally, spread the icing or pipe it beautifully on top of your cinnamon rolls. now, serve with a big glass of cold milk.

---

Tips to help when you’re making Fresh Milled Flour Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t skip on kneading the dough. The better you develop the gluten, the softer your rolls will be.
• Use all of the filling. If you feel brave, sprinkle a bit of salt over the filling too.
• If you don’t want buttercream, make a simple icing with milk and powdered sugar.

How to Store Cinnamon Rolls

Fresh milled cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and best eaten fresh. Because they don’t have preservatives, they don’t last as long as store-bought rolls.

The key is to keep them covered tightly so they don’t dry out. Air is your biggest enemy here.

---

Refrigerator Storage

You can store cinnamon rolls in the fridge, but it’s not always the best option. Cold temperatures can dry out baked goods and make them feel firm instead of soft. 

If your rolls have the buttercream frosting, the fridge is tan okay choice but will dry out the icing and dough.. Store them in an airtight container and they will last about 5–7 days. 

Before serving, warm them slightly to bring back that soft, fresh texture.

---

Freezer Storage

Freezing is the best way to keep cinnamon rolls fresh long-term.

Let the rolls cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3–4 months in the freezer. 

To use, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30–60 minutes. Then warm gently in the oven or microwave.

For best results, frost them after thawing.

---

Shelf Life

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Room temperature: 1–3 days (covered tightly) 
• Refrigerator: up to 1 week (if frosted) 
• Freezer: 3–4 months 

Fresh milled flour recipes tend to dry out faster, so plan to enjoy them sooner rather than later.

---

How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are best served warm. That’s when they are soft, gooey, and full of flavor.

If they’ve cooled, just heat them for 10–20 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in the oven. This brings back that fresh-baked feel.

Add extra frosting on top right before serving for a bakery-style touch.

---

Meal Ideas

Cinnamon rolls can be more than just a treat. They can be part of a full, cozy meal. In the mid west, it’s common to serve cinnamon roll with a bowl of chili. To us southerners, it seems insane, but adapting to midwestern culture is all part of Plain Living!

If you’re not into the midwestern combo, try serving them with:

• Scrambled eggs and bacon
• Fresh fruit and yogurt
• A simple breakfast casserole

This balances the sweetness and makes it feel like a complete meal.

---

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your cinnamon rolls with drinks that complement their rich flavor.

Some great options include:

• Fresh brewed coffee
• Hot chocolate
• Milk (especially for kids)
• Spiced chai or herbal tea

The warm spices in the rolls pair especially well with cozy drinks. My blogger friend Sylvia at TheProverbsKitchen.com has some incredible drink recipes that would go great!

---

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

Don’t let leftover cinnamon rolls go to waste. There are so many fun ways to use them.

Try these ideas:

• Turn them into a cinnamon roll French toast bake
• Slice and toast them with butter
• Use them as a base for a dessert trifle
• Make a simple bread pudding

These ideas actually make leftovers feel like a brand new recipe.

---

Make-Ahead and Batch Cooking Tips

Cinnamon rolls are perfect for planning ahead.

You can prepare the rolls, then refrigerate them before the final rise and bake the next day. This helps you have fresh rolls in the morning without all the work. 

You can also freeze baked or unbaked rolls for future meals. This is a great way to always have something special ready.

---

Doubling the Recipe

Cinnamon rolls are easy to double, and it’s usually worth it.

Make one batch for now and one for the freezer. Since the process takes time, doubling saves effort later.

Just be sure to use a large enough bowl and allow extra space for the dough to rise.

---

Meal Prep Ideas

Cinnamon rolls can fit into a simple meal prep routine.

Here are a few easy ways to plan ahead:

• Bake a batch and freeze individual portions
• Prep rolls the night before for a quick morning bake
• Portion leftovers for grab-and-go breakfasts

This is especially helpful for busy families or weekend hosting.

---

---

How Fresh Milled Flour Affects Cinnamon Rolls

Fresh milled flour changes both the texture and flavor of cinnamon rolls in a good way. It makes them more filling, more flavorful, and more wholesome.

Texture

Cinnamon rolls made with fresh milled flour are usually a little more dense than white flour rolls. They still turn out soft and fluffy, but they have a bit more “bite” to them.

This happens because fresh milled flour includes the whole grain—the bran and germ—which adds structure. It also absorbs more liquid, so the dough may feel slightly thicker or heavier.

The key is to knead well and give the dough enough time to rise. When you do that, you still get soft, pillowy rolls.

---

Flavor

The flavor is where fresh milled flour really shines.

Instead of a plain, sweet dough, you get a rich, slightly nutty taste. It pairs perfectly with cinnamon and brown sugar, giving your rolls a deeper, more homemade flavor.

Many people say once they try fresh milled cinnamon rolls, regular ones taste bland.

---

Color

Fresh milled flour also gives your rolls a more golden or slightly brown color.

This is completely normal and actually a sign that you’re using the whole grain. It makes the rolls look rustic and homemade.

---

Tips for Best Results

• Use warm liquid to help the dough rise well
• Don’t skip the kneading step
• Let the dough fully double in size
• Add a little extra moisture if the dough feels dry

These small adjustments make a big difference.

---

Can I substitute fresh milled flour 1:1 in cinnamon rolls?

Not always. Fresh milled flour absorbs more liquid than all-purpose flour.
You may need to add a little extra milk or water to get the right dough consistency. Start with your recipe, then adjust as needed. Or, for ease, jsut use the Plain Living Fresh Milled Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

Why are my fresh milled cinnamon rolls dense?

Dense rolls are usually caused by not enough rising time or not enough kneading.
Fresh milled dough needs a little more time to develop gluten and rise properly. Make sure the dough doubles in size before baking.

Do fresh milled cinnamon rolls take longer to rise?

Yes, sometimes they do.
Because of the bran in the flour, the dough can rise a bit slower. Keeping the dough in a warm spot helps speed things up.

Can I use 100% whole wheat or should I mix flour?

You can use 100% fresh milled wheat, and many people do. My favorite flour is spelt, but the best is to mix soft wheat and spelt.
If you want a lighter texture, you can mix in a little bread flour. But it’s not required if you’re okay with a slightly heartier roll.

What is the best wheat for cinnamon rolls?

Soft white wheat is a popular choice because it makes a softer texture.
Hard white wheat works too, but it will give you a slightly more chewy and hearty roll.

Do fresh milled cinnamon rolls taste different?

Yes, and in a good way.
They have a richer, deeper flavor with a slightly nutty taste. This makes them feel more homemade and less processed.

---

Quick Summary of the Recipe

Mix and knead your dough. Allow it to double in size. Punch it down, roll it out, and spread the filling. Then rolls it into tight spirals. Bake at 375 for 30 minutes. While the rolls cool, make the icing, then spread it on the cinnamon rolls. Serve warm with a glass of cold milk.

---

Printable Recipe Card

Print

Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour

Soft, fluffy, and full of rich flavor, these fresh milled flour cinnamon rolls are the perfect from-scratch treat for any occasion. Made with freshly ground wheat or spelt, they have a warm, slightly nutty taste and a tender texture you just can’t get from store-bought flour. Each roll is swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and baked until golden.

Topped with a smooth, sweet buttercream icing that melts into every layer, these cinnamon rolls are comforting, satisfying, and perfect for slow mornings, holidays, or make-ahead breakfasts. Once you try them with fresh milled flour, you may never go back!

Course Breakfast, Dessert, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword cinnamon rolls, comfort food, fresh milled flour, made from scratch

Prep Time 2 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

rise 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 3 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings 12 rolls

Calories 709kcal

Equipment

• 1 grain mill
• 1 stand mixer
• 1 whisk
• 1 rubber spatula optional: use a piping bag

Ingredients

Dough

• 1.5 Cups milk warmed
• 4 tsp yeast active dry, or instant
• 6 Tbs butter softened
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4.5 cups fresh milled flour wheat or spelt

Filling

• 12 Tbs butter softened
• 1.5 cups brown sugar
• 3 tbs cinnamon

Buttercream Icing

• 1 stick butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar sift well
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp vanilla
• pinch salt

Instructions

1: First, Mill the Flour and Measure the Ingredients

• Since you’ll need 4.5 cups of fresh milled flour, you should expect to put about 3 to 3.5 cups of grain into the mill. Put the grain in the hopper and turn the mill on. Meanwhile, you can measure the remaining ingredients so they’re ready to mix.

2: Next, combine ingredients

• Warm your milk (or water) slightly and add to the mixed bowl. If you chose active dry yeast, add it and allow it to bloom for 10-15 minutes. Add 6 tablespoons of melted butter, honey, and eggs to the milk and yeast mixture. Then, add the fresh milled flour. Mix until all of the flour is wet.

Step 3: Let the flour rest

• Fresh milled flour naturally takes longer to absorb liquid. Once it is all coated well, allow it to rest for 10 minutes or so. If you skip this step, it will take a very long time for your dough to reach the correct stage.

Step 4: Knead

• Doughs made with fresh milled flour take much longer to knead. You can still aim for dough that is glossy and passes the window pane test, just like most doughs. However, fresh milled flour will take much longer to develop gluten than all purpose flour. I typically turn my mixer on 3-4 with the dough hook installed, then set a timer for 15 minutes and walk away.

5: Bulk Rise

• This step consists of more waiting. Cover the dough with a tea towels or a bowl cover and allow it to rise for 45 to 60 minutes. It should double in size.

Step 6: Roll and Roll again

• This step is the fun part! On a floured counter, roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4″ thick. Mix together 12 Tbs softened butter, 1.5 Cups brown sugar, and 3 Tbs cinnamon. Spread this mixture all over the dough rectangle. With a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 1″ strips. Then roll each strip into a tight spiral to create the cinnamon rolls. Place the rolls into a buttered 9×13 dish.

7: Second Rise

• Now there’s more waiting. This recipe feels like waiting and not much else, but it’s so worth it. Plus, all the down time in between steps gives you time to get other stuff done around the kitchen! Allow your cinnamon rolls to rise for another hour while covered with a damp tea towel. When they’re light and fluffy, bake at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to mostly cool so the icing doesn’t melt.

Step 8: Icing

• While the cinnamon rolls cool, prepare the buttercream icing. First, whip your softened butter for 5-10 minutes. Trust me, this step is necessary. It will make your icing velvety smooth.
• Then, sift your powdered sugar in and continue to whip until the sugar is fully incorporated into the butter. Next, add vanilla and heavy cream until the icing is the consistency you desire. I prefer my icing to be a bit thick because I want to put it on warm rolls and it tends to melt. Finally, spread the icing or pipe it beautifully on top of your cinnamon rolls. now, serve with a big glass of cold milk.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 709kcal | Carbohydrates: 109g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 229mg | Potassium: 292mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 74g | Vitamin A: 932IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 112mg | Iron: 2mg

---

Leave a Comment and Share Your Results

The post How to Make Amazing Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour appeared first on Plain Living.