banana | Created by Diane

Easy Banana Mousse in Cups

Diane — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 15:09:59 +0000

This No-Bake Easy Banana Mousse in Cups, using banana pudding mix. It’s fun, make 30 minutes ahead or the day before, perfect for parties, camping, and summer gatherings.

These easy Banana Pudding Cups are creamy, fluffy, and perfect for summer gatherings.

Made with heavy cream, milk, instant banana pudding mix, bananas, and mini Nilla Wafers, they’re a simple no-bake dessert everyone loves.

The pudding mixture is whipped with heavy cream until thick and mousse-like, creating a rich and airy texture that’s lighter than traditional pudding.

Topped with homemade whipped cream, fresh banana slices, and cookies, these individual dessert cups are perfect for parties, cookouts, camping trips, beach days, family gatherings, and potlucks.

Best of all, they can be made ahead, making entertaining easy.

Why You’ll Love These Creamy Banana Pudding Mousse Cups

No baking required
Easy to make ahead
Perfect individual servings
Light, fluffy mousse-like texture
Great for parties and picnics
Easy to customize

Ingredients

Heavy cream
Milk
Instant banana pudding mix
Fresh bananas
Mini Nilla Wafers

For the whipped cream topping:

Heavy cream
optional powdered sugar
Optional vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Pudding Cups

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, and instant banana pudding mix.

Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it thickens. The heavy cream whips as you mix, creating a rich banana mousse that’s thicker and fluffier than regular pudding.

In a separate bowl, whip additional heavy cream until medium-firm peaks form for the topping. Add powdered sugar and vanilla if desired. I use them.

Layer cookies, the banana pudding/mousse into dessert cups. Add mini Nilla Wafers and banana slices, then top with whipped cream and an additional cookie.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding Cups

Use very cold heavy cream for the fluffiest texture.
Assemble the cups several hours ahead for easy serving.
Add the final cookie garnish shortly before serving if you want it crisp.
Mini Nilla Wafers fit perfectly into individual dessert cups.
For extra banana flavor, add additional banana slices between layers.

Make Ahead Instructions

These cups are excellent for making ahead. Prepare them the day before your party and keep them refrigerated until serving.

The cookies will soften slightly as they sit, giving them that classic banana pudding texture many people love.

No Fresh Bananas?

No problem.

The banana pudding mix adds plenty of banana flavor on its own. If you don’t have fresh bananas available, simply leave them out and enjoy the creamy banana mousse with cookies and whipped cream.

Gluten Free Option

To make these gluten free, simply skip the cookies.

Layer the banana mousse with fresh banana slices instead.

For a little crunch, top with banana chips just before serving. Top them with banana chips.

Chocolate chips are another great item to add to these. Mini chips are great for mini desserts!

Easy Make Ahead Banana Pudding Cups

Perfect For…

Summer parties
Cookouts and BBQs
Beach days
Camping trips
Birthday parties
Potlucks
Family gatherings
Holiday dessert tables

These Banana Pudding Cups are the kind of easy dessert everyone reaches for first. Creamy banana mousse, fluffy whipped cream, fresh bananas, and cookies make every bite irresistible.

I use these cups, they are perfect for quick, easy desserts like this. Put them in the fridge, use a basket or bin for the fridge, or in the cooler when taking them to-go!

More Banana Recipes:

Banana Pudding Cake
Banana Bread
Banana Buttermilk Scones
Glazed Peanut Butter Banana Breadban

We have spent quite a few weeks this year in the south, and they love their banana pudding so I thought I’d come up with some other options!

Let’s Make Quick Easy Banana Mousse in Cups

Thickly whipped up banana pudding tastes like a mousse. Perfect individual cups are great for single-serve dessert, portion control, no-bake, great party, camping, and perfect for beach days.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword banana, dessert, pudding

Prep Time 10

Total Time 40

Servings servings

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

1 pkg package instant banana pudding mix
2 cups heavy whipping cream divided 1 cup for pudding, 1 cup for topping
1 cup milk I use whole milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon Icing 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 2 tablespoons water
1 11 oz. box, mini Nilla wafers cookies
2 bananas

Instructions

In a medium bowl, with an electric mixer, beat heavy cream, milk, and banana pudding mix, starting on low, increasing to high until everything is whipped up smooth and fluffy. About 2-3 minutes.
I place each serving in a 5 oz cup. Add 3 cookies to the bottom of the cups, add 2-3 tablespoons of pudding, then repeat.
Add a few slices of fresh sliced bananas pieces.
In another medium bowl (or wash and rinse bowl with cold water so the cream whips easily) Add the remaining heavy cream, and add the vanilla and sugar. Whip on high until medium peaks form.
Top each dessert with whipped cream, top with 1 more cookie.
Place in fridge for 30 minutes to overnight. If preparing the day ahead, place lids on top and refrigerate.

The post Easy Banana Mousse in Cups first appeared on Created by Diane.

The Ultimate Back to School Recipe Guide: Breakfast to Dinner

Diane — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 05:32:17 +0000

The Ultimate Back to School Recipe Guide: Breakfast to Dinner. Whether you have kids or grandkids heading back to class, or simply notice the extra traffic near the schools. Maybe you’ve been browsing the colorful school supplies in the stores, or simply find yourself feeling nostalgic, it’s a season that brings back memories. Back to school season has a way of showing up everywhere.

You may find yourself craving a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or want some quick, easy meals when this time of year rolls around!

It also means busy mornings, packed lunches, hungry afternoons, and the daily question of, “What’s for dinner?”

The good news is that feeding your family doesn’t have to be complicated. A little planning goes a long way, and having a collection of dependable recipes makes the entire week run more smoothly.

This collection is filled with easy breakfasts, lunches, after school snacks, simple dinners, and meal prep ideas that help busy families get through the school year with less stress and more delicious meals.

The Ultimate Back to School Recipe Guide: Breakfast to Dinner will help you make a plan, find some new recipes, and set out a plan to make it a bit easier.

Before You Start Planning Meals

Forget trying to create the “perfect” menu. Instead, think about the foods your family actually enjoys eating.

Write down everyone’s favorites. Keep the list handy when meal planning. If your child only wants a peanut butter and jelly sandwich today, that’s okay. A lunch they’ll actually eat is always better than one that comes home untouched.

If vegetables are a struggle, keep offering them in different ways without making them a battle. Tastes change, and kids often surprise you.

One of the easiest tricks? Don’t fill the pantry with junk food. When healthier choices are the easiest options to grab, they’re much more likely to become new favorites.

Easy Back to School Breakfasts

School mornings are busy, so breakfast needs to be quick. These recipes can be made ahead, grabbed on the way out the door, or prepared in just a few minutes.

The 5-Minute Breakfasts That Save Chaotic Mornings

Toast Overload
Spaghetti and Eggs
Cheesy Bacon Breakfast Potatoes
Saltines and Milk (A nostalgic favorite)

Lunch Box Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat

One of the biggest searches every school year is “Lunch Box Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat,” and for good reason. Parents don’t want to spend time packing lunches that come right back home.

These recipes travel well and are family favorites.

Bean and Cheese Burritos (freezer-friendly)
Apple Cheddar Quesadillas (great warm or cold)
Caprese Grilled Cheese (kicked up Grilled Cheese)
Easy Tortilla Empanadas (freezer friendly)
French Bread Pizza (my kids favorite)
BBQ Chicken Macaroni Salad (cold lunch favorite)
Cottage Cheese Taco Dip with Fresh Veggies

Don’t forget to check out my collection of budget-friendly meals for even more affordable family favorites.

Cold Pasta Salads: pack these for lunches with a cold pack, or use a thermos, and don’t forget a fork

for older kids:

And don’t miss seeing this super California Roll Bowl

If sandwiches are the items you’ll be making for lunches, see what side items your kids will devour and add them. I used to make all the week’s sandwiches at the beginning of the week. It simplified mornings, and there was always food ready to eat in the fridge!

More Pasta Salad Recipes

Afternoon Snacks Everyone Looks Forward To

Having a few ready-to-go snacks makes the afternoon much easier before homework, sports, and activities begin.

Try these favorites:

If you have the time before pick-up time, get something ready, and when everyone rushes in the house with all the stories of the day and homework, you’ll all have something to eat right away!

Everyone is obsessed with air fryers

You Must Try These 12 Air Fryer Recipes

Let’s continue with The Ultimate Back to School Recipe Guide: Breakfast to Dinner.

Easy Weeknight Dinners

After a full day of school, work, practices, and homework, dinner needs to come together without a lot of effort.

These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights.

Don’t underestimate the power of sandwiches, either. Grilled cheese, chicken salad, meatball sandwiches, French dip, pulled chicken, or turkey melts often become the easiest dinners of the week. Keep a running list of your family’s favorites for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.

What to make with a Pound of Ground (beef, turkey, chicken, sausage)

Meal Prep Once, Eat All Week

Cook Chicken Once for the Week-Cook a large batch of chicken early in the week, then turn it into several different meals.

You’ll spend one afternoon cooking and save yourself time all week long.

Don’t miss my post on Meal Prep here.

Remember, meal prep can look any way you’d like it to be, it’s to help you make mealtime easier. Prep items and keep them separate to whip up easy meals in minutes, or prep out individual meals, fridge or freeze them so there is food at the ready when you want them.

Make This School Year Easier

Whether you’re packing lunches every morning, feeding hungry teenagers after sports, helping grandkids after school, or simply looking for dependable family meals, these recipes are here to make busy weekdays easier.

And if you need some High Protein Meals check these out!

With a little planning and a handful of recipes your family actually enjoys, school days become a whole lot less stressful and a lot more delicious.

Make Meal Planning Easy for the Whole Family

Meal planning doesn’t have to feel like another chore. A little planning at the beginning of the week can save time, reduce stress, and answer that daily question of, “What’s for dinner?”

Build a weekly menu around your family’s favorites while also leaving room to try something new. Print this meal planner, maybe it’s a different vegetable, a new recipe, or a fun lunch idea that someone wants to give a chance. Keeping a list of meals everyone enjoys makes grocery shopping easier, meal prep faster, and busy weeknights much less stressful.

One of my favorite posts is all the varieties of Meatballs here.

Over time, you’ll create a personalized collection of family favorites that takes the guesswork out of planning meals.

Simply pull out your planner each week, mix in a few tried and true recipes, add something new if you’d like, and enjoy spending less time wondering what to cook and more time enjoying meals together, especially at back-to-school time!

Back to school time reminds me of this post I wrote, it’s about relationship advice and comfort food and how a good meal can help on difficult days!

One plan. Less stress. More family favorites.

And this meal remains my family’s go-to, with leftovers everyone wants.

One more thing…

If you’d like to help your kids or any family who may be picky (at any age) expand the foods they eat and have fun exploring real, wholesome foods, this wonderful activity book by my friend René of We Eat Simple is a fantastic resource. It’s filled with engaging activities that encourage kids to discover, taste, and enjoy new foods in a fun, pressure-free way.

The post The Ultimate Back to School Recipe Guide: Breakfast to Dinner first appeared on Created by Diane.

Creative Ways to Use Canning Jars in the Kitchen

Diane — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 02:37:11 +0000

Creative Ways to Use Canning Jars in the Kitchen isn’t just about storage, it’s about making everyday cooking, organizing, and serving feel a little more thoughtful and fun.

If you’ve ever wondered about ways to use canning jars, you’re about to see just how versatile these simple glass staples can be.

From prepping meals ahead of time to serving drinks, storing leftovers, or even creating eye-catching displays, canning jars have become a go-to item in modern kitchens. They’re practical, affordable, and surprisingly stylish, making them perfect for anyone who loves both function and a little creativity in their space.

I’m sure at one time or another you’ve had a canning jar. Pasta sauce is a great example of a canned item that is readily purchased. Whether you can save glass jars to put items in, or see jars and wonder why someone would want to use them in such a way, is the discussion today.

Party to Pantry: Creative Ways to Use Canning Jars

One of my favorite sizes of canning jar is the 16oz wide mouth, it’s the jar I grab for almost everything, but trust me, I have all sizes. Often I’ll need larger jars, but I do find the 16 oz jar to be useful.

While I don’t really prefer the regular, more narrow-opening size lids, items other than drinks don’t come out of the jar easily. And if you like freezing items, it’s not recommended to freeze in regular-mouth jars. I do have some, but I really love the wide mouth jars so much more.

Whipped Iced Coffee in 24 oz tall canning jars, these are perfect for iced coffee and mixing items such as sauces with an immersion blender.

Glass jars store items so well, from flour to sugar, and so much more. Check out my post on How to Make Brown Sugar.

Keep entertaining simple with glass jars, place all your dips, condiments, and other items like pickles and olives in glass jars… grab some spoons and you’re all set iwth a simple and pretty collection so guests can easily see and get to the items.

And for parties, these small glass jars for walkable salads! Salad Dippers.

How to toast coconut… it’ll stay fresh in a jar for months! Perfect on ice cream and topping baked goods. Be sure to give this cake a try, it’s a fun toasted coconut cake.

Looking for a quick entertaining dessert, give this fun grilled cake a try… no baking needed, just purchase, grill, and add a simple sauce. Grilled Cake.

I love these 8-oz jars

They are the perfect size for so many items. I love using them for butter on the counter. They are great for desserts like chocolate mousse.

While I’ve used many butter dishes, but I always return to using an 8oz jar, and I love these Leak Proof lids, I can keep the butter on the counter with no issues and if you have to put it in the fridge, don’t worry, put it in the microwave on defrost setting for 20-30 seconds or so to soften it without melting it.

Rich and delicious 4-ingredient chocolate mousse recipe; it’s light and fluffy and smooth all at the same time. It just melts in your mouth!

Blueberry Margaritas– the color is gorgeous, and these are so tasty. Be sure to check out my Blueberry Basil Lemonade Recipe, too.

Be sure to watch this fun video of me making the blueberry margaritas and more!

Fill jars with water instead of buying bottled water for emergencies (if you are a traditional “canner”… you may have an abundance of jars. I have many, all sizes too. I’m just obsessed with canning jars and have been for years!

Do you have a favorite way to use canning jars, let me know in the comments. I love finding new ways to use them.

Match any decor with this quick, easy tissue holder. Use any color or style with this fun tip. Cut a piece of fabric or paper, and have it be the size of the jar lid, or make it larger, and in a square to have over the edge of the glass, as I did, and use pinking shears for a cute edge.

I love custard. It’s been a favorite since I was a kid.

While I’m sharing favorites, this is a wonderful cake with vanilla pastry cream.

Old Fashioned Egg Cream- Chocolate Soda Classic fizzy chocolate drink
Instant Pot Pinto Beans Tender flavorful homemade beans
Marinated Caprese Fresh marinated tomato salad
Apple Sangria Fruity refreshing wine cocktail
Key Lime Pie in Jars Tangy creamy mini desserts
Jar Pasta Salads Easy portable pasta meals

Be sure to check out my post on driving with food. Lots of good tips and items I use, so everything arrives as it should. I’ve made many mistakes over the years and cringe when I arrive and something isn’t the same as when I put it in the car.

Paloma Cocktail Bright citrus tequila cocktail
Raspberry Syrup for drinks and more… Sweet fruity drink topping
Chicken Noodle Soup Cozy comforting classic soup
Gravy Recipe Smooth savory homemade gravy
Wet Walnuts Zesty creamy herb sauce
Cilantro Lime Sauce Creamy tangy salad dressing

Quick, Easy Creamy Caesar Dressing Recipe Creamy tangy salad dressing
Meal Prep Jar Salads Fresh make-ahead lunches
Homemade Mayonnaise Creamy fresh sandwich spread
Restaurant Salsa Fresh bold tomato salsa
To-Go Snacks- cottage cheese, cucumber, tomatoes S+P
Coloring Eggs Fun festive egg decorating

Lemonade Recipe Bright refreshing citrus drink
Pickled Jalapenos Spicy tangy pepper slices
Lemon Wine Brown Butter Sauce Rich buttery citrus sauce
Lemon Saffron Salad Dressing Bright aromatic salad dressing
Easy Instant Chocolate Mousse from scratch Quick rich chocolate dessert
Green Olive Dip Savory briny appetizer dip

Overnight Oats with Berries Easy wholesome breakfast jar
Green Chicken Chili Hearty creamy chicken chili
Thai Peanut Sauce Creamy sweet savory sauce
Rosemary Candied Walnuts Sweet herby crunchy nuts
Fig Jam Sweet, rich fruit spread
Sangria Fruity chilled wine punch

More recipe favorites in jars:

Blueberry Basil Lemonade Fresh, fruity herbal lemonade
Jalapeno Pepper Jelly Sweet spicy pepper spread
Pumpkin No Bake Cheesecake Creamy spiced pumpkin dessert
Quick Pickled Vegetables Crisp, tangy veggie mix
Pickled Turnips Bright, crunchy pickled bites
Banana Bread Pudding Warm comforting baked dessert

I use glass jars for drinks, salads, salad dressing, spices, overnight oats, yogurt/granola, stack cake/frosting making parfaits, storing herbs with water on the bottom in the fridge, storing dry foods, flour, sugar, rice, oats, and such.

I store meal prep items, especially around Thanksgiving, so I can see everything. One of my favorite sauces is my Cilantro lime sauce, I often triple the recipe. And if you like it slightly spicier add in a jalapeno or two.

Glass canning jars are great for marinated mushrooms and my quick pickles.

Actually… I store cilantro in the fridge in a 2-cup wide-mouth glass jar by adding an inch of water to a jar and place cut cilantro into the jar. I then cover it with a plastic bag to keep it moist and fresh in the fridge, it’ll keep for weeks. Just change the water each week.

Green onions and herbs fit nicely in these jars. And if you cut off the green onions, they will grow back if you leave them out on the counter. (not at a rapid pace, but they do grow back)

More kitchen Items I LOVE

And if you want tips on Driving with Food, check this out.

Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce– Rich, chocolaty, and delicious, and lots of recipe uses for it…

Hot Fudge Cake: A fun option you must see.
Hot Fudge Sundae Cupcakes: Moist chocolate cupcakes topped with creamy frosting, hot fudge, and all the classic sundae toppings in an easy handheld treat.
Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake: A rich dark chocolate cake with deep cocoa flavor that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
Hot Fudge Sundae Cookies: Soft, chewy chocolate cookies loaded with hot fudge flavor and finished with classic ice cream sundae-inspired toppings. And they look like ice cream cones… super cute!
Brownie Ice Cream Cake: Layers of fudgy brownies and creamy ice cream come together for an irresistible frozen dessert that’s perfect for any celebration.
S’more Sundae: A fun twist on the campfire favorite with toasted marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers, and ice cream layered into an easy, decadent sundae.

Don’t miss making some of the cutest pies ever… out of jar lids.

Desserts in jars are super cute and they make all sorts of really unique lids for jars now, cute flower-looking tops you can put a straw in, like with this peach lemonade.

Drinks are not only fun but portable, bring your own or make a bunch and have them ready when going to a party or neighbors, as the lids are easily interchangeable- from Leak Proof lids, then swap lids so you can use a straw. Color-coded lids are helpful to keep track of whose drink it is- writing names on top can help too.

This Lavender Lemonade is perfect for any occasion or invite.

If you’re making juice or cocktails, this juicer topper is convenient, especially if you need it on the go.

Jar Salads are great for meal prep and to bring anywhere!

I love these wood lids. I haven’t tried them yet, have you? I’d love to hear how well they work.

Put Your Canning Jars to Good Use

As you can see, I just love jars… and canning jars are so durable. They really stand the test of time and are perfect for projects too. I keep a 4 oz jar in the kitchen cabinet of the paint for our cabinets, and if I see a chip or a spot that needs touching up, I just grab a tiny brush and fix it. I wish I had done this for each paint color we’ve used in our house.

How Durable are Canning Jars:

Canning jars are strong and do not break easily, even when dropped. The thick glass is meant to withstand pressure and temperatures, both hot and cold. But don’t pour hot liquid into a “cold” jar from the fridge or freezer, as the shock will break the jar immediately… trust me on this!

Freezing in canning jars should have 1-2 inches below the top for straight jars. Try to avoid freezing with jars that “taper in,” but leave at least 1-2 inches below the “shoulder” if you are using jars that taper in. And it’s not recommended that you freeze in quart jars. (But I have without problems).

Don’t put ice and a cold drink into a jar and then set it down on 100°+ hot patio cement either… the bottom can split, and when you pick up the top part of the glass, the bottom will look like a coaster! Again, trust me on this. I make all the mistakes so you don’t have to .

Other than those mishaps I mentioned, Glass canning jars are really great for so many items.

And if you love canning jars, here are a couple of fun items Everyting tases better in a canning jar t-shirt and this fun dish towel!

The post Creative Ways to Use Canning Jars in the Kitchen first appeared on Created by Diane.

What to Bring When You’re Invited Over: 10 Easy Host Recipe and Gift Ideas

Diane — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 15:03:41 +0000

Never show up empty-handed again. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, dinner party, or weekend visit, these 10 easy host gift ideas are great options for what to bring when you’re invited over.

#1 Bread and Butter (a personal favorite)

Never underestimate how much people like one of the simplest items you can put together in minutes.

There’s something special about being greeted with a basket of warm bread and butter. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, making everyone eager for that first bite before the main course even arrives. It’s a simple touch that instantly makes a meal feel welcoming and memorable.

While classic butter is always delicious, flavored butters make fresh bread even more irresistible. A creamy cinnamon sugar butter adds just the right touch of sweetness, while honey butter melts into every warm slice with rich, comforting flavor.

If you prefer something savory, try a jalapeño butter with a little kick, roasted garlic butter, or a blend of fresh herbs. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and a wonderful way to turn an ordinary loaf of bread into something guests will remember long after the meal is over.

I love cornbread, and whipped honey butter is the perfect topping!

Fresh baked, store-bought, any type of bread, rolls, sliced, baguette… and butter, go with European if you want to kick it up, Kerry Irish Butter comes in a spreadable tub for on-the-go ease. Mix in some fresh herbs (and garlic) for a tasty appetizer.

A simple Butter Board could bring a smile to anyone!

Don’t miss this post on how to perfectly toast bread, this is great if you happen fresh bread to crisp the outside, has some lack luster bread and need to make it taste wonderful. Have frozen bread, this will bring it back to that fresh baked yumminess.

Homemade Bread

2 loaves of bread and homemade butter
Aritsan Bread and Compound Flavored Butters
French Bread
More Artisan Bread Options
Jalapeno Butter
Another great “quick bread” option is Irish Soda Bread

Banana bread is wonderful alternative too.

And a fun Crostini option is this Caprese Crostini

#2. Cheese and Crackers

Mix a variety of cheeses, from creamy and mild to sharp and aged, with buttery crackers, crisp artisan crisps, or rustic crostini so guests can create their perfect bite.

A round of brie, goat cheese, or cream cheese paired with crackers is always welcome. And on top, add some…

Or your favorite preserves for an easy appetizer everyone will enjoy.

#3. Something to Sip

Bring a bottle of wine, sparkling cider, lemonade, flavored syrup, sparkling water, or ingredients for a fun mocktail.

A bottle of cranberry juice and a few fresh limes can instantly elevate a gathering. Add tequila to make these.

4. A Sweet Treat

My motto? Life is short, eat dessert first!

A box of chocolates is always a crowd pleaser.

Sometimes the simplest desserts are the most satisfying. Warm cinnamon apples come together in minutes, and they are perfect over vanilla ice cream… It tastes like warm apple pie!

If you need a last-minute option, stop by a bakery and grab something you love.

5. A Simple Side Dish

For BBQs, cookouts, potlucks, and Friendsgiving, celebrations, and parties, offer to bring a side dish.

Another summer side dish must serve item is baked beans, for cookouts, BBQ’s and fun with sandwichces too.

6. Fresh Fruit

A bowl of seasonal fruit is beautiful. Choose apples any time and especially in the fall, pomegranates, clementines, persimmons in the winter, and strawberries and cherries in the spring.

Stone fruit and watermelon in summer to fall, buy a fruit platter, add in some fresh berries or cherries, or buy fruit and cut it yourself. Here you’ll find the recipes for the fruit dip, what a fun, easy treat.

Make a platter of chocolate covered fuit for any occasion!

7. Flowers (Ready to Display)

Flowers make a wonderful host gift, but don’t hand your host a bouquet that needs trimming and arranging.

Instead, place them in a vase, jar, or pitcher before you arrive (or buy them already arranged) so they can simply set them down and enjoy them.

Desserts that look like flowers, poppies, rose cookies, and pink rose cupcak es

A plant or fresh herbs are other really wonderful options. A basil plant looks and smells great on the kitchen counter. And fresh basil is the key to this simple pasta salad.

8. Ice Cream or Donuts

Sometimes the unexpected gifts are the most memorable.

A box of donuts, ice cream sandwiches, or chocolate-covered ice cream bars can instantly turn an ordinary gathering into a celebration.

Grab a container of ice cream, or make some homemade ice cream with my easy no-churn ice cream recipes.

Don’t underestimate grabbing something you love from a bakery, or the bakery section of a store, maybe a childhood favorite, or just something you haven’t had in a while.

9. A Thoughtful Non-Food Gift

When someone opens their home and invites you over, it’s always nice to arrive with a small token of appreciation.

While food gifts are often the first thing that comes to mind, non-food gifts can be just as thoughtful and are often enjoyed long after the night is over.

From flowers and herbs to kitchen essentials and cozy home accents, these simple gifts are easy to find, budget-friendly, and perfect for showing your gratitude.

A great item is a dish towel, just wrap it in a ribbon or twine and say thank you for the invite. Plain dishtowels, Plaid style dishtowels, any color, Buy in bulk, find your signature gift item, or with fun sayings. How about a fun candle.

Kitchen towels, a fancy salt, even smoked salt, specialty tea, or fresh herbs make great host gifts.

Think about what feels like a small luxury to you. Chances are, it will feel special to someone else, too.

An item typically available at every grocery, dollar-style store, or Amazon has them ready whenever an invite comes along. Pretty paper products, like colorful paper napkins or plates, they have lots of fun items and design options, some have fun sayings, others are seasonally themed.

10. Bring Their Favorite

The more you know about the host, the easier this becomes.

Love coffee? Bring a bag of local coffee beans. If they are a coffee lover, bring them a cup of their favorite, chances are, they’ve been go-go-go all day, and it will be just what they need.

Know they love chocolate? Bring their favorite candy.

Something everyone may love is a bottle of avocado oil or olive oil.

When in doubt… bring something you genuinely enjoy yourself. Make it or buy it. Maybe it’ll become their favorite, too.

shop my favorites here

One Final Tip

Ask, How can I help?

Sometimes they might need you to pick up ice or lemons. I recall having a party years ago, and as you know, it can get very busy. I ran out of paper towels. Are you thinking, how does that happen?! They sell them in packs of 12 at big box stores, but it did! And a friend texted she was on her way over, and I said, I hope you have a roll of paper towels, I ran out… luckily she did…the day was saved!

There was no way I was heading to the store minutes before everyone arrived, and yes, paper towels are a must in my book when you have a party! But you might need something else. It’s always nice when someone lets you know they’re on their way, just in case a last minute need comes up.

And even a simple thank you note, when you arrive. Thanking them for opening their home to you, for thinking of them, and taking the time to make this day possible. Witih all the planning and preparing, But mostly being thought of is a gift within itself.

And one more thing…

This really fun, simple dessert is the Cannoli Dip. Make it or buy it, I’ve seen some options like this at Trader Joe’s, they sell the dip, just add the dippers. Costco sometimes has it, and so do grocery stores.

The best host gifts don’t have to be expensive, just thoughtful enough to let your host know how much you appreciate their hospitality.

And if you’re looking for the cute pink frosted cake I’m holding in the featured photo at the beginning, I’ve shared the recipe here.

Let’s recap my top 10:

Bread and Butter
Cheese and Crackers
Something to Sip
A Sweet Treat
A Simple Side Dish
Fresh Fruit
Flowers, herbs, or plants
Ice Cream or Donuts
A Thoughtful Non-Food Gift
Bring Their Favorite

No matter what you bring, the thought behind it is what people remember most. A warm loaf of bread, a favorite dessert, fresh flowers, or a handwritten note are all simple ways to say, “Thank you for having me.” The best host gifts don’t have to be expensive. They just need to come from the heart.

The post What to Bring When You’re Invited Over: 10 Easy Host Recipe and Gift Ideas first appeared on Created by Diane.

Easy Banana Pudding Cake with Cake Mix (No Cool Whip)

Diane — Fri, 29 May 2026 04:18:59 +0000

Southern banana pudding meets easy cake mix magic in this rich and creamy Banana Pudding Layer Cake. Offering Quick shortcuts with homemade flavor.

Made with soft vanilla cake layers, classic banana pudding filling, and fresh bananas, this nostalgic Southern dessert is perfect for potlucks, holidays, and anytime you want a show-stopping cake that feels both comforting and celebratory.

If you love traditional Southern banana pudding but want something a little more special for a celebration, this banana pudding cake recipe is exactly what you need.

Starting with a doctored cake mix keeps things simple and foolproof, while the creamy pudding filling and sliced bananas give every bite that classic homemade banana pudding flavor everyone loves.

And no Cool Whip (which is an enormous plus, I don’t like Cool Whip, I think it tastes greasy).

This easy banana pudding layer cake combines the best parts of two favorite desserts. The moist vanilla cake layers soak up just enough creamy filling to create a soft, rich texture without becoming heavy.

Fresh bananas tucked between the layers add authentic banana pudding flavor, while the beautiful layered presentation makes it worthy of all gatherings.

One of the best things about this Southern banana pudding cake is how approachable it is to make. Using a cake mix shortcut means you can spend less time baking and more time creating those luscious pudding layers that make this dessert unforgettable.

It tastes like an old-fashioned homemade dessert, but comes together with easy ingredients. If you want to make the extremely simple no-bake banana pudding, simply layer the filling onto Nilla wafers, using them for 3 layers.

Alternatives to cake or Nilla wafers, you can use graham crackers, Pepperidge Farms Chessmen shortbread cookies, Lorna Doone, Dublin Shortbead, Golden Oreos, lady fingers, or Biscoff cookies. Use Nutter Butters for a fun peanut butter flavor.

Serve this banana pudding cake chilled for the ultimate creamy texture and flavor. Garnish with vanilla wafers, whipped topping, or extra banana slices for a bakery-style finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of classic banana pudding or simply looking for an easy Southern cake recipe that stands out from the ordinary, this layered banana pudding cake is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Now, if you’re more of a traditionalist, you’ll just place Nilla Wafers on the bottom of the pan, then add some banana cream, then add another layer of nilla wafers and bananas, then the last layer of banana cream, and top with bananas.

More Banana Desserts You’ll Love

If you love classic Southern banana pudding flavors, there are so many other delicious banana desserts to try, too. From cozy banana breads to rich cakes and bakery-style treats, bananas make some of the best old-fashioned desserts.

Looking for a completely different Banana Cake… check out this celebration-worthy, Banana Layer Cake.

If you have ripe bananas sitting on the counter, my classic Banana Bread is always a reader favorite and perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

Don’t miss this Banana Cake, so simple you can make it in a cast iron skillet, and the quick, easy trick to this recipe is to use Pancake Mix, perfect for a quick camping recipe.

Banana Crumb Muffins these are the muffin recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Be sure to use my Pan Release so the pieces of cake come out easily!

And don’t miss making these Banana Maple Oatmeal Cookies

Easy Banana Pudding Cake with Cake Mix (No Cool Whip)

Rich and Creamy Banana Pudding makes this recipe perfect, and while it can be used with nilla wafers, this easy cake version is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword banana, cake, pudding

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

chill time 1

Total Time 2

Servings servings

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

1 15.25oz box Duncan Hines White Cake Mix
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups water
4 large whole eggs you can use only egg whites if you prefer
1/2 cup melted butter which is 4 oz
1 cup sour cream, or plain greek yogurt which is 8 oz
2 tablespoons oil, I use avocado oil
2 teaspoons banana extract
2 teaspoons vanila extract

Pudding Filling

2 cups whole milk
1 3.4oz pkg Instant banana pudding mix use vanilla pudding and 2 teaspoons banana extract if you can't find it
1 14oz can sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups heavy cream Whippped until medium to stiff peaks form

Additional Ingredients

4 large yellow bananas no brown spots
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for dusting on top

Instructions

Begin by making the banana pudding, so it can be placed in the fridge to chill.
In a medium bowl, combine the banana pudding mix along with the milk, whisk until thick and creamy. Place it in the fridge, and chill. It will be thick and set up as thick pudding. I use a stainless container, so it sets up quickly.
In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla on high until stiff peaks form.
On low, drizzle in the sweetened condensed milk so it combines evenly.
Next, you'll slowly and carefully fold the pudding into the whipped cream mixture, Place the pudding mixture on top, slowly slice down the middle of the bowl with a spatula, then give the mixture a flip. Don't stir or mix quickly, as that will deflate the light fluffiness of the whipped cream and deflate the filling. Continue folding the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until everything is folded together.
Cover the filling with plastic wrap so it is placed directly onto the mixture. Place it in the fridge so it thickens while you make the cake.

Making the cake

In a large bowl of a mixer, place the cake mix, add in the flour, sugar, eggs, butter, along with the sour cream, oil, vanilla, and banana extracts.
Begin on a low speed, raising to a medium speed mix for 1 minute, then mix on medium high for 30 more seconds to a minute, all the ingredients should be well combined and smooth.
Place the batter in a 13×9 pan that is prepared with a pan release cream or spray. So the cake will be able to remove easily.
Bake the cake for 40-50 minutes for a metal pan, it'll take longer, 50-60 minutes for a ceramic pan. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean. It's a thick cake, you'll be slicing it in half once it cools.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a cooling rack and cool completely before slicing. Alternatively, you can cut the cake into cubes and place the pieces in a trifle bowl, with the filling, or layer the pieces back into the rectangular pan for a simple serving idea.
Once the cake is cooled, turn it out on a cooling rack and slice it into 2 even slices. Creating 2 layers, they will be about 13×9 by 1". Using a long serrated knife gives a great result. It's not a huge problem if it's not perfectly even or even breaks into a couple of pieces; you can just press it into the pan when you add the filling (to glue it together).

Assemble the cake

Place 1 layer back into the baking pan. Then add 1/2 of the pudding mixture and spread it evenly over the cake. Peel and slice the 2 banans into even slices about 1/4" thick. Add sliced from 2 bananas. Add the second layer of cake and the remaining pudding filling. Slice the remaining 2 bananas on top, then sprinkle the edges of the cake with cinnamon using a fine sieve or strainer.
Place the cake in the fridge for at least half an hour, or overnight. Slice and serve! It's best when it is hilled and sets up nicely. you can spoon the cake out or slice it if you want more even-looking pieces, or spoon it into bowls.
If you are planning to serve this cake the next day, slice the bananas for the top closer to serving to ensure they don't turn brown, or place the bananas just "under" the pudding filling, and then smooth some of the mixture over the bananas and sprinkle with cinnamon. Both options are great, I love the look of the bananas on top, but both options will look nice.

Notes

This filling is made the same if you’re looking for a more traditional banana pudding with Nilla Wafers. You’ll use 1 box of Nilla wafers and place some on the bottom of the pan, layer the filling, then more Nilla wafers, more filling, and then lastly top with Nilla wafers, then dust with cinnamon.

Alternatively, you can use graham crackers, Pepperidge Farms Chessmen shortbread cookies, Lorna Doone, Golden Oreos, lady fingers, or Biscoff cookies. Use Nutter Butters for a fun peanut butter flavor.

The post Easy Banana Pudding Cake with Cake Mix (No Cool Whip) first appeared on Created by Diane.

How to Make a Cannoli Dip and Dessert Charcuterie Board

Diane — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 18:51:38 +0000

If you love easy desserts that look impressive, you’re going to love this Cannoli Dip and Dessert Charcuterie Board! It’s rich, creamy, and no-bake, which makes it perfect for parties or a fun night in.

I’ll show you how to make a smooth, delicious cannoli dip and turn it into a gorgeous dessert board with plenty of dippers—cookies, cones, fruit, and more. It’s simple, fun, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

If you love the sweet, creamy flavor of cannoli but don’t want to fuss with frying shells, this Cannoli Dip is your new go-to dessert!

Made with smooth ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla, this easy no-bake dip is light, sweet, and totally irresistible.

Serve it on a fun dessert charcuterie board with your favorite dippers like ice cream cones, graham crackers, cinnamon sugar tortillas, and fresh strawberries.

No-Bake Cannoli Dip Dessert Board

Perfect for parties, holidays, or a simple treat night at home!

How to Make Cannoli Dip (printable recipe is below)

Ingredients:

16 oz cup ricotta cheese (pressed through a fine mesh strainer)
8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
1- 1/4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon dry milk (optional) is best for using if not serving the day prepared, so it remains thick.
Options: mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios

Instructions:

Strain the ricotta cheese using a cheese cloth can be used, or a nylon cheesecloth
Then press the ricotta through a fine mesh strainer for a smooth texture and release excess moisture.
Mix with room temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy. By hand or with a mixer.
Spoon into a serving bowl(s) and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Mix in the chocolate chips or chopped pistachios or sprinkle them on top.

Dipping Ideas for Cannoli Dip

This dip goes with just about anything! Try:

Ice cream cones – break into pieces or serve mini cones for scooping.
Graham crackers – honey or cinnamon work great.
Cinnamon sugar tortillas – cut into triangles and bake until crisp.
Fresh fruit – strawberries, apple slices, or banana chunks.
Vanilla wafers or ladyfingers – classic Italian dessert pairings.

Cannoli Dip Tips

This Italian Dessert Dip is a huge hit!!!

Smooth texture: Straining the ricotta with cheese cloth, or paper towel, is key to that velvety texture.
Removing as much moisture as possible, so it doesn’t weep later.
Make ahead: Mix the dip up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
Adding dry milk helps the mixture stay thick and look great, so a pool of liquid doesn’t sit on top.
Flavor twists: Add mini chocolate chips, orange zest, lemon zest, or almond extract for a flavor boost.
Presentation: Arrange your dip and dippers on a board for a dessert charcuterie that looks amazing and serves easily.

Q&A

Q: Can I use mascarpone or cream cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes! Mascarpone will give a richer, creamier flavor. Cream cheese makes it more like a cheesecake dip.

Q: How do I make it thicker?
A: Add a little more powdered sugar or mix in mascarpone cheese, add the dry milk and allow it to rehydrate and absorb the excess moisture in the ricotta cheese.

Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

Q: What can I serve Cannoli Dip with for a party?
A: Arrange it as part of a dessert charcuterie board with a mix of crunchy, sweet, and fresh dippers, it looks stunning, and everyone gets to customize their own bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required
Ready in minutes
Crowd-pleasing and portable
Fun to serve and totally customizable

SEO keywords: Cannoli Dip, Easy No Bake Dessert, Cannoli Dip Recipe, Dessert Charcuterie Board, Cannoli Dip with Ricotta, Italian Dessert Dip, Sweet Dip for Parties

This makes a fun to-go treat! Pack it up in a small container, keeping the dip and cones, crackers, separate so they stay dry.

More fun recipes to try, these are all chocolate!

How to Make a Cannoli Dip and Dessert Charcuterie Board

This amazing and simple no-bake cannoli dip is the perfect dessert!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword cheese, dip, sweet

Prep Time 30

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

16 oz ricotta cheese
8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1 cup mini chocolate chips
1/2-1 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
1 tablespoon dry milk (optional) This will help the dip stay thick without water releasing as it sits, great if you don't eat it the day you make it.

Instructions

Strain the ricotta cheese using cheesecloth (cotton or nylon, I linked options in the post), allow it to rest 15 minutes, then squeeze out the excess liquid (about a 1/4 cup may come out)
Then press the ricotta through a super fine mesh strainer. It should be really smooth.
Mix the ricotta cheese with room temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar (and dry milk if using) and vanilla, mix by hand or with a mixer.
Place the cannoli dip in a serving dish or dishes. The chocolate chips and pistachios can be mixed in or just put them on top.
Place the mixture in the fridge or serve immediately.
Serve with cannoli chips, graham crackers, pieces of ice cream cones, cinnamon sugar tortillas/chips, and strawberries

The post How to Make a Cannoli Dip and Dessert Charcuterie Board first appeared on Created by Diane.

The Best Banana Buttermilk Scones You’ll Ever Bake

Diane — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 23:58:00 +0000

Banana Buttermilk Scones are tender, golden, and flavorful. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime.

These Banana and Buttermilk Scones are just one more reason to buy more bananas! Think banana bread in scone form!

Made with ripe bananas and tangy buttermilk, they bake up soft inside with a golden crust.

This banana scones recipe is great for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, (or midnight snack) they’re delicious on their own or served with butter, honey, or jam. Add some whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re looking to “dessert” it up!

Why You’ll Love These Banana Buttermilk Scones

Soft, bakery-style texture
Banana flavor shines through
Quick to make with simple ingredients
Freezer-friendly for an easy grab-and-go breakfast

How to make banana scones, buttermilk scones:

Use ripe yellow bananas for the best texture and flavor. Brown soft bananas will likely give a mushier scone interior.

The Best Banana Buttermilk Scones You’ll Ever Bake. Bananas are a staple item and great to have on hand.

Grating cold butter for scones gives a great lift to the scones, the butter blends in nicely while creating pockets of air when the scones are baked!

For a light, fluffy texture, use ripe bananas but not “brown/black overripe bananas, the super soft, mushy texture will result in mushy scones, the same thing happens with banana bread.

Enjoy this delicious banana layer cake, it’s wonderful!

Banana Maple Oatmeal Cookies are really calling your name. These are a must-make!

And one more amazing banana recipe, these Banana Crumb Muffins, oh these are the real deal

If you love baked goods with that cozy banana bread flavor, you’re going to fall in love with these Banana Buttermilk Scones. They’re tender, lightly sweet, and have a wonderful texture thanks to the buttermilk.

Tips for Perfect Banana Scones

Use cold butter- this helps create flaky layers.
Grate the cold butter
Don’t overmix- stir just until the dough comes together.
Slice bananas so the center of the scone isn’t mushy.
Brush with buttermilk before baking- it gives them a golden, crisp top.
Add-ins welcome! Try mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a touch of cinnamon.
Fruit scones tend to get sticky if you overmix or if they get warm, add flour as needed.

Give some of these Banana Recipes a try, everything from cakes to cookies, pies, and banana bread too!

If you’ve got a couple ripe bananas waiting to be used, skip the banana bread this time and bake up a batch of these delightful scones. Soft, buttery, and full of banana flavor — they’re sure to become a favorite!

If you’re looking for more recipes to use buttermilk with, give some of these a try!

Banana Buttermilk Scones

Banana and Buttermilk Scones are soft, golden, and flavorful—like banana bread in scone form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword banana, scone

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 28

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

3 cups all purpose flour or bread flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, grated
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 ripe bananas, chopped (not mashed) I used yellow bananas; brown bananas will give a mushier more wet scone.
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, if desired

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°
In the bowl of a mixer, place the flour and brown sugar, mix to combine.
Add in the baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and mix again to combine those ingredients.
Add the cold grated butter and mix to combine on low to medium speed.
Place the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, and cinnamon if using it.
Add in the sliced banana, and mix on low, just until the banana incorperates.
When the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl, stop mixing.
Turn the dough out onto your work surface, floured or on plastic wrap, and roll out 1 inch thick with a rolling pin. Cut into desired shape and size. 6-8 large scones, or many smaller scones.
I make the dough into a ball, then roll it into a dish shape and cut it with a sharp knife (not wiggling it- so the scones don't twist), then gently lift them with a spatula.
Place the scones on a parchment lined baking sheet, brush the tops of the scones with buttermilk.
Bake at 400° for 15 minutes.
Remove from oven and allow scones to cool for 5 minutes, serve warm or cooled. Slice and add butter, jam, or honey.

The post The Best Banana Buttermilk Scones You’ll Ever Bake first appeared on Created by Diane.

Saltines, milk and sugar

Diane — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 22:33:44 +0000

Growing up, a lot of us had those unique family meals that seemed perfectly normal… until we found out nobody else was eating them. Many of these “odd” recipes were born from frugality, hand-me-down dishes from the Depression era, wartime, or simply budget-stretching kitchens. And honestly? Some of them were surprisingly delicious.

From sweet-and-savory mashups to pantry-staple creations, these quirky comfort foods remind us how creative families could be with what they had on hand. If you ever traded your lunch at school only to hear “What is that?”, this post is for you.

Let’s turn back time…

I remember my grandmother serving me this often when I visited. I did really liked it, she made it seem special, it was the only time I ever ate it.

What is it exactly? It’s warm milk, with saltines and sugar.

Yep, totally simple, easy to make, and most have those items in the house!

It really tastes like a savory cereal, which is one reason I might not like that sugary stuff, I never have. Although I recall eating some cereals, it was never my favorite.

Coffee Soup (or Coffee Sop): When consumed with coffee instead of milk, it was sometimes referred to as “coffee soup” or “coffee sop”.

Milk toast: This refers more broadly to bread and milk, but suggests a historical context where simple warm dairy dishes were common

It’s a real quick, poor version of bread pudding! Add bread or dried fruit to switch it up.

We called it saltines in milk, but some call it Soaky!

When conversations of foods we ate as kids come up… what were you served as a kid, that others may not have had?

It could be as simple

My son’s favorite is from my mom… she served him an English muffin, butter, applesauce, with cinnamon and sugar on top (which is still a favorite, especially if he’s not feeling well)

One friend told me, as I was heating tortillas for dinner, that flour tortillas with butter and cinnamon sugar was the item his mom served his family on repeat.

I recall many days having toast with butter and cinnamon-sugar! Tortillas weren’t popular where I grew up, and seeing fresh tortillas wasn’t popular until he 80s.

Whether you still like the food or not today is always a hot topic, from frozen dinners of Salisbury steak with the tiny cobbler or a pot pie from Banquet (always very affordable) to tuna noodle casserole with stewed tomatoes, some had peas.

I’ll never forget watching the movie Angie, and she made English muffin pizza with spray cheese and ketchup… I gasped!

Here are a few odd-but-often-loved childhood foods you might recognize:

Ketchup Sandwiches
Bread + ketchup = lunch. No cheese, no meat, just straight-up tomato sugar paste between slices of Wonder Bread. Michelin star? No. Cheap and oddly comforting? Absolutely. (I have never had this, but I hear it was popular)
Butter & Sugar Sandwiches
Because who needs frosting when you’ve got margarine and a spoonful of sugar? It was like a DIY Pop-Tart—without the tart. (Who doesn’t LOVE Butter!)
Hot Dogs in Everything
Mac and cheese? Add hot dogs. Spaghetti? Add hot dogs. Just hot dogs on a plate? Dinner is served. (Check out these other Hot Dog options here and here.
Fried Bologna Sandwiches
The fancy version of lunch meat: fry it until the edges curl, slap it on white bread, and call it gourmet
Tomato Soup (aka “Ketchup Soup”)
If you were really broke, you might have had soup made with hot water and ketchup packets. It was basically Depression-era ramen.

Banana & Mayo Sandwiches
Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it. Creamy, tangy, weirdly good. (Or maybe it was just childhood hunger talking.)
Cornbread & Milk in a Bowl
Some families swore by this as dinner. Basically dessert if you added enough sugar.
Leftover Mystery Mash
Anything in the fridge + a frying pan = dinner. Potatoes made frequent appearances, naturally.

What felt like “normal food” as a kid was often born from resourcefulness, creativity, and making something tasty out of whatever was in the pantry. While some of these dishes might make others raise an eyebrow, they carry a lot of nostalgia—and maybe even deserve a comeback.

Some thought these meals were just what people ate, only to grow up and realize other kids were having actual lasagna while we were over here eating bread with condiments.

But honestly? Looking back, those quirky, cheap eats are part of what made childhood memorable—and maybe even made us a little more creative in the kitchen today.

Some rely on the blue box of mac and cheese… I never had that as a kid (and I really don’t like it), make this great creamy cheesy mac and cheese!

My mom cooked well… I know I was blessed. The only meal I recall not liking she ever made was Liver and Onions!

Not everything from childhood was a ketchup sandwich—thankfully. Alongside those oddball meals that made us question our parents’ choices, there were the classics that still make our mouths water today: bubbling baked ziti, melty meatball subs, flaky blueberry pie, and creamy baked custard that could rival any bakery.

It’s funny how food tells the story of where we came from. Some meals were pure survival mode, some were hand-me-down traditions, and others were mom’s way of making sure we felt spoiled, even on a budget.

So whether your childhood dinners were a little quirky, a lot comforting, or somewhere in between, they all left their mark. And let’s be honest—we’d probably still eat half of them today, even if it’s just for nostalgia (looking at you, fried bologna).

Because in the end, those odd foods weren’t just meals… they were memories. And that’s the best recipe of all.

Some of my favorite recipes inspired by my mom are:

And my favorite desserts my mom made

So here’s to childhood foods—equal parts questionable and unforgettable.

If you’re looking to save money, try making your favorite take-out items at home. I have a whole slew of recipes for you to try here.

Do you have a food from childhood you later found out most people didn’t eat?

Let me know in the comments, I’d love to hear about it.

This sauce is great on ice cream, and I bet your wouldn’t expect it!

Saltines milk and sugar

Some call it "Soaky", it tastes like savory cereal, a great, cheap, depression era option to serve when you're hungry! You can also make this with bread, fresh or stale!

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 1

Total Time 2

Servings serving

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

5 saltine crackers or bread- fresh or stale
1 cup warm milk
1/2 teasppon granulated sugar

Optional- add dried fruit, maple syrup

Instructions

Add warm milk to a bowl, add the saltines (whole or broken), and top it with some sugar. You can use bread, adding in dried fruit is another option.
Enjoy!

The post Saltines, milk and sugar first appeared on Created by Diane.

The Best of Created by Diane: My Most-Loved Recipes

Diane — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:57:02 +0000

We all have those go-to recipes, the ones we crave… can’t stop making, and happily come back to again and again. Today, I’m letting you in on my personal favorites, and trust me, you’ll want to add these to your regular lineup too! I’m celebrating my blog-anniversary, I started this recipe website in 2009. Thanks so much for visiting…

I hope you’ll sign up for my emails here!

These recipes never fail to make family and friends happy!

Today, I’m sharing some of my all-time favorite recipes that have stood the test of time and always earn rave reviews.

This food blog actually started back in 2009 with one simple recipe. I brought a dish to a party, and it was such a hit that everyone wanted the recipe. At first, I wrote it out by hand (yes, pen and paper!). But after being asked multiple times, someone finally said, “You should start a food blog!”

So that’s exactly what I did. With very little planning, I picked a name, opened my laptop, and launched what would become a place to share easy, delicious recipes you’ll want to make again and again. I’m definitely more of a “jump in and figure it out later” kind of person. (Strangely, I’ll overthink the small stuff but dive headfirst into the big things—go figure!)

And that leap has turned into something amazing…
I hope you enjoy this collection of recipes:

I broke it up into a few groups: round 1, 2, 3, and some other don’t miss recipes.

A fun read is this post on Relationship Advice and Comfort Food!

In round 1, these are the recipes that come to mind, with little thinking… they popped into my head right away!

This post is LONG… and full of lots of recipes and such, and there are some fun photos of me at the end too!

Cake- Skillet Carrot Cake Moist, spiced carrot cake baked in a skillet for a rustic touch—topped with cream cheese frosting for pure comfort.
Cookie- Brownie Cookies Rich, fudgy cookies with chewy centers and crackly tops—like a brownie and cookie all in one bite.
Scone- Lemon Scones Bright, buttery scones infused with fresh lemon zest and topped with a sweet glaze—perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Chicken- Brown Sugar Soy Chicken Tender chicken glazed in a savory-sweet brown sugar soy sauce—easy, flavorful, and a weeknight favorite.
Beef- Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Juicy grilled steak paired with vibrant chimichurri sauce—bold, fresh, and packed with flavor.
Pasta- Newlywed Pasta A creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s simple, elegant, and made to impress.
Drink- Blueberry Basil LemonadeA refreshing twist on classic lemonade with juicy blueberries and fragrant basil—summer in a glass.
Appetizer- Salsa Verde A zesty, tangy green salsa made with tomatillos, chilies, and cilantro—perfect for chips, tacos, or grilled meats.
Soup- Zuppa Toscano Hearty Italian soup with sausage, potatoes, kale, and a creamy broth, comfort food in a bowl.
Salad- Creamy Caesar Salad Crisp lettuce tossed with creamy homemade Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and parmesan cheese.

My all time favorite pasta salad: Feta Basil Balsamic Pasta Salad

Now onto round 2…

Cake- Vanilla Filled Cake a tender vanilla cake with creamy filling, berries, simple, classic, and absolutely irresistible for any celebration.
Cookie- Pecan Lassies Chewy, nutty, and sweet, these pecan cookies are a bite of cozy comfort in every piece.
Scone- Pumpkin Scones Velvety, lightly spiced pumpkin scones topped with a drizzle of glaze, perfect for year-round, especially fall.
Chicken- Chicken Francaise Golden chicken cutlets simmered in a lemon-butter wine sauce, this Italian-American favorite is both elegant and easy.
Beef- Meatballs- Juicy, flavorful beef meatballs—perfect on pasta, tucked in a sandwich, or enjoyed all on their own.
Pasta- Jalapeno Bacon Mac and Cheese- Creamy mac and cheese gets a bold upgrade with smoky bacon and a kick of jalapeño heat.
Drink- Whipped coffee- A frothy coffee drink that’s as fun to make as it is to sip, creamy, strong, and a little bit indulgent.
Appetizer- Crab Dip- wait until you see how cute it is!
Soup- Corn Soup- which is really like a loaded, thick, delicious chowder!
Salad- Chinese Chicken Salad- Crispy, crunchy, and full of color—this salad mixes tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty sesame dressing that’s anything but boring. It’s the kind of salad you’ll actually crave!

and here is round 3:

Cake- Chocolate Layer Cake– Rich, moist, and frosted to perfection—this classic chocolate cake is a slice of pure indulgence.
Cookies- Cut Out Sugar Cookies– Buttery, crisp, and perfect for decorating—these cookies make every occasion extra sweet.
Scones- Cream Scones– Tender and fluffy with a golden top, these scones are the ultimate cozy treat.
Chicken- Chicken and Dumplings – A comforting classic with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth.
Beef- Carne Asada- this great dry rub is quick and easy to ensure tasty tacos
Pasta- Baked Ziti– Cheesy, saucy, and baked until bubbly—this ziti is weeknight comfort food done right.
Drinks- Kentucky Dirty Cocktail–
A bold, smooth bourbon cocktail with just the right touch of southern charm.
Appetizers- Pizza Dip– All the cheesy, saucy flavors of pizza—served up in a hot, scoopable dip.
Soup- Spaghetti Soup– A fun twist on pasta night—spaghetti meets hearty, comforting soup.
Salad- Taco Salad– Crisp, fresh, and loaded with bold flavors—this salad is a meal in itself.

Another great pasta salad I make on repeat: Pesto Pasta Salad

Here are three more recipes I think you should take a look at:

Always a favorite this Whiped Coffee

It might sound simple, but it took a lot of time to learn all aspects of blogging. Photography, writing, and learning how to operate a website. How to organize the day-to-day of running a business as well as being the only person doing all the tasks. Especially when a job blogging wasn’t even a thing a couple of years prior. So it’s not like there were lots of people to ask. I started blogging about the same time Facebook started becoming familiar, Instagram wasn’t a thing yet, nor was Pinterest. Sharing sites were different; many have lost their mojo and dropped off the internet.

So I just wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who has visited… and those who have seen me through it all… And welcome new readers. The very best way to see my new recipes is to sign up for emails.

More about this wonderful business of mine…

I plan and prepare what I’ll be making.
Test the recipes; sometimes they get made multiple times before they get published. To ensure you’ll get the same results as I do. Recipe testing can be time-consuming… delicious but time-consuming.

Plate, set up, and photograph the recipes.
The tasting part is the most fun,
then comes the clean up… not necessarily the most fun. And oh, can I make a MESS!

Next comes the writing, editing, publishing, and maintaining the recipes on my site, updating things as needed to comply with the ever-changing internet. Sharing them to email followers and promoting them on social media to drive traffic to my blog to earn an income.

I’m super excited whenever anyone visits my website. You’ll not only find new recipes, there are over 1500 recipe posts in the recipe index that I’ve posted over the last 16 years. I cook and bake a lot. I really love spending time in the kitchen creating new recipes as well as making my favorites.

When my kids were younger, I made this Polynesian Meatball recipe all the time, it’s based on my husband’s grandmother’s meatloaf recipe. Which I fell in love with at first bite!

So many recipes I make on repeat! I hope you’ll find some new favorites as well.

More weekly favorites:

What do I bring to a party? If I’m bringing a snack, appetizer, ora similar item, often I’ll make one of these:

Caprese with Balsamic Aioli
Cottage Cheese Taco Dip
Goat Cheese Crostini
Chips and SalsaThe perfect last-minute item to bring…
Bread and Butter Board- perfect for any budget!

Whenever my family needs something to bring to a potluck, cookout, or party… I make this mac and cheese, because this is the number one item they request. I typically double the recipe!

These 4 are often on repeat!

The cake I make most often for a party?

1 hour Strawberry Shortcake, why? Even though I mentioned how much I love chocolate… when I’m having a party I go for this Chocolate Cake, but his shortcut chocolate cake if I’m in a hurry.

more favorite soup recipes

A few years ago, we remodeled our kitchen (you can see more photos here). It was a ton of work, but I am so glad we did it. I love being in the kitchen, cooking, baking, creating new recipes…

Now, while I wish my kitchen would look all pretty, cleaned up, and everything in its place…

You can see me in the kitchen here.

Most of the time, my kitchen is a mess, as you can see by the photo above with all the dishes! Things can go haywire easily with everything all over the place, cabinets and drawers open, and tons of dirty dishes in the sink. But my fridge and freezer are always full of food, and I couldn’t be happier.

I do clean up the kitchen every night. I don’t like leaving a mess for the next day.

The post The Best of Created by Diane: My Most-Loved Recipes first appeared on Created by Diane.

Banana Layer Cake

Diane — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 01:34:30 +0000

All you need is love and CAKE! And you will love this cake! This banana cake will have fall in love with this cake in mere minutes. It’ll only take one bite of this super delicious cake, the fresh bananas give it a wonderful flavor.

Just one more reason to buy bananas!

This cake may look fancy, but would you guess it is baked in a 13×9 pan, then cut, filled, and frosted!

I just love simple with a wow factor.

More banana recipes:

I’ve made this cake in a 9×13 pan, sliced it in half, and then stacked the two halves to make a 2 layer rectangle cake. If you don’t plan on filling the cake, it can be served with adding frosting on top, keeping it simple.

I love pastry cream and filled cakes, so I often like the added step to have a filled cake when I’m finished.

If you’re looking for a nice round layer cake I made this 3 layer round cake using 8″ round cake pans.

Why use baking strips?

Because, it ensures the cake will bake evenly, nice and flat. With no need to trim cakes, no dome, cakes won’t overbake since the edges won’t overbake quickly and the center won’t rise above them, so the cakes are nice and flat and will look great, taste great and easier to frost when stacking cakes. Baking strips can be found here.

I decorated each cake easily with frosting and banana chips or fresh flowers, camomile style daisy flowers always look nice.

I like easy and simple when it comes to decorating cakes, but feel free to go all out if that is more you.

Check out these other easily decorated cakes

I often leave the sides of cakes naked… but this one I slathered it on. I smoothed it out and then added simple toppings.

Fun and simple cake decorating ideas:

Dollops and swirls and you’re all set with this pretty cake
fresh flowers cake
Semi-naked cake
fruit on cake
add sprinkles
Add sliced fresh bananas if serving the cake immediately after adding

I filled the rectangle cake with pastry cream, which is so creamy and delicious. But if you don’t want that extra step you can place frosting in between the layers of cake like I did in the round cake below.

Do you ahve a favorite cake shape, round or square… I typically like round cakes for layer cakes, but have make a few 13×9 cakes and turned them into layer cakes and even an ice cream cake and it might just e a favorite after all.

It sure makes slicing even pieces easier!

But it is easy to take a round cake and slice it across and then slice it into pieces, then they are all similar.

It’s best to hold a small cutting board up to the cake and slice it, so the large slice will hold together until you place the cutting board down and then slice it into pieces.

*Ripe bananas work best in this cake recipe. Do not try the tip about putting them in an oven in the banana peel, allowing them to turn brown… they will not offer the same delicious flavor, I’ve tried it. The aroma of the bananas was nice, but once baked they did not offer a banana flavor.

Swiss meringue buttercream frosting

I used this Swiss Meringue Buttercream Frosting.

Another option is to give the frosting banana flavor by adding 1 teaspoon Banana Extract but if you don’t like the flavor of banana candy… don’t add it. You could add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.

Below you’ll find the RECIPE CARD for the cake recipe and the pastry cream filling recipe…

A quick alternative for a shortcut banana pastry cream (1- 3.4 oz box instant banana pudding mix, 16 oz heavy cream, and a tablespoon or two of milk add additional milk if you’d like it thinner).

Banana Layer Cake

This deliciously tender banana layer cake, makes a 2 layer rectangle cake out of a 9×13 cake or a 3-8" round layer cake.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword cake, frosting

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

12 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 2/3 cups all purpose flour
6 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups buttermilk (or 1 1/2 cups whole milk with 3 tablespoons vinegar)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups ripe, mashed banana, 3 medium bananas- equal to 1 cup

Banana Pastry Cream

4 large egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
pinch salt
4 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon banana extract
2 cups whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°.
Prepare 1-13×9 rectangle pan or 3-8" round cake pans. I use a pan release (or grease and flour).
In the bowl of a mixer, beat butter until smooth.
Add in the sugar and mix on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Add one egg at a time, continue mixing on low to medium until each egg is combined.
Place the buttermilk, vanilla and mash the bananas with a fork until soft, microwave 10 seconds if needed to soften them so they blend smoothly.
In a medium bowl whisk the flour, baking pwoder, baking soda and salt until blended.
You'll now alternate the flour and buttermilk mixtures. Start with flour, add buttermilk, flour, and buttermilk, finish with the flour mixture. Mixing on a low speed.
Pour the batter into the cake pan(s).
Bake the round pans for 25-30 minues and the 13×9 pan to 45 minutes test with a toothpick, once if comes out clean remoce from the oven.
Allow the cakes to cool for 10 minutes then turn out to a cooling rack to completely cool. Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze/refrigerate until firm.
Prepare the pastry cream filling:
In a medium saucepan mix the sugar cornstarch, and salt. Add in milk and mix well. heat over medium heat, stirring as it heats to dissolve the sugar, and continue stirring. Bringing it to a simmer (small bubbles.
Remove the pan from the stove, then slowly spoon some milk mixture into a bowl with whisked egg yolks, until blended while stirring well. Then add the egg mixture to the milk mixture whisking until it simmers and thickens, continue cooking for 3 minutes. Add the butter, vanilla, and banana extract and mix well.
Pour into dish and cover with plastic wrap touching the pastry cream so it stays smooth (and does not form a thick film/skin) refrigerate until it's completely COLD. The thinner the dish for the pastry cream the faster it'll cool.
Prepare the frosting recipe. Swiss meringue buttercream frosting linked in post.
Cold cake, layers well. Be sure the pastry cream is cold. You don't want it to be warm, the filling will slide.
Assemble the cake:
Place 1 cake layer, pipe frosting around the edge then fill with pastry cream in the middle. If making a 3 -layer round, repeat.
Use an offset spatula and spread frosting on the sides, then top of the cake. Smooth and even our frosting. Create dollops of frosting to decorate the top of the cake, and add dried banana chips or flowers as desired.
Refrigerate the cake so everything sets well and firm.
Remove from the fridge at least 1 hour before serving.

The post Banana Layer Cake first appeared on Created by Diane.