Keeps the Heart Healthy

Avocados are high in fat—but it’s the good kind. Oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that’s also abundant in olive oil, helps keep blood moving at a healthy rate by slowing the rate at which fat clogs blood vessels. Love your EVOO? Check out these health benefits of olive oil next.

Lowers Blood Pressure

When it comes to potassium-rich foods, bananas aren’t the only game in town. Each serving of avocado has about 485mg of the nutrient, which helps counteract the ill effects of sodium to keep blood pressure at a healthy level. Along with lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes, potassium also helps improve skeletal and muscular function for more limber movement.

Also, check how to store an avocado to keep it fresh for a long.

Fights Bad Cholesterol

Beta-sitosterol, a natural plant sterol found in avocados, simultaneously helps raise good cholesterol (HDL) levels and remove bad cholesterol (LDL), which can lower the risk of heart disease. Make your doctor proud by whipping up one of our most delicious avocado recipes.

Aids Digestion

The fiber-rich flesh of avocados soothes the intestines and helps food pass through the intestinal tract with ease. The soluble fibers also come in handy by relieving the nasty symptoms of constipation and diarrhea, just like these high-fiber foods you should be adding to your grocery cart.

Helps Meet Weight-Loss Goals

Avocados’ abundance of fiber can also help keep dieters on track. Healthy avocado recipes will help you feel fuller for longer periods of time, and the fiber can help prevent dips in blood sugar that send you reaching for mid-afternoon snacks.

Reduces Dandruff

Heat up avocado oil and massage it into your scalp to nourish dry, flaky skin that leads to dandruff. But be careful not to make it too hot! Your best bet will be to heat it in a jar placed in hot water and test its temperature regularly before applying. You can make a hair mask from fresh avocado, too. Here’s how.

Moisturizes Skin

Lots of beauty products contain avocado oil, and for good reason. It’s one of the best foods for your skin! The omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D and E help keep skin smooth and prevent drying out. Try rubbing the inside of an avocado peel on your face and washing it off after 15 minutes for an at-home facial, or add a few drops of avocado oil to a bath to prevent piping-hot water from making skin too dry. Find out if you need to wash avocados.

Protects Against Sunburn

Along with its cooking benefits, avocado oil forms a protective layer on top of the skin to shield against harsh rays of the sun while working in the yard or relaxing on the beach. The flesh also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help tamper down the pain of sunburns.

Keeps Eyes Sharp

The phytochemicals lutein and zeaxanthin are concentrated in tissue around the eyes, and avocados help bolster their levels to minimize damage caused by UV light. Avocado’s antioxidant properties also help neutralize free radicals, which can cause cataracts and age-related eye diseases.

The post 9 Health Benefits of Avocado appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Winter Squash

Getting through the tough rinds of butternut, acorn and spaghetti squashes awards strong-wristed cooks with creamy, nutty flavor and a hearty texture that withstands high heat. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, which can help bolster the immune system during cold weather.

Psst: If a cold has gotten the best of you, here are some foods that could help you feel better faster.

Lemons

How much vitamin C is in a lemon? Almost as much as the amount in an orange! Pack in nutrients (and flavor!) by adding lemon peel, zest or juice to your meals (we LOVE these lemon recipes). And for a quick vitamin C boost, toss a little lemon in your water bottle.

Do you know all of lemon’s health and beauty benefits? Find out here.

Strawberries

Small, sweet and oh-so juicy, this beloved fruit can be tossed into smoothies and salads or eaten fresh for a healthy helping of vitamin C with almost no effort. Our huge list of strawberry recipes is loaded with dozens of options for any meal of the day.

Strawberries aren’t the only immunity-boosting berry. Find out how to make elderberry syrup here.

Kiwifruit

This exotic fruit—also known as the Chinese gooseberry—comes in a furry little package for easy transport to school or the office. Back at home, it’s surprisingly versatile. Take a refreshing sip of sparkling kiwi lemonade after a day in the garden or add some flair to dinnertime with a honey-pecan kiwi salad.

If you’ve been doing this to your kiwis, you can stop.

Mango

From mouthwatering mango salsas to hearty chutney chicken curry, this tropical staple adds island-like flair to countless dishes. The sweet fruit, however, is protected by a tough and pesky skin—learn how to peel a mango like a pro.

Tomatoes

In all its forms, this household staple provides a decent amount of vitamin C. Raw green tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes give the most bang for your buck, but even tomato juice and canned tomatoes will contribute toward your daily vitamin needs.

Bell Peppers

Just one cup of green bell pepper can contain more than twice the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. The riper red bell pepper has even more, along with the eye health-friendly vitamin A. Whip up this sweet onion and red bell pepper topping to punch up everything from hot dogs to cream cheese.

Chili Peppers

Along with giving dishes a mouth-tingling zest, chili peppers—both red and green varieties—load dishes up with vitamin C. They’re not just used in Mexican dishes, either. Check out our collection of chili pepper recipes to expand your spicy horizons.

Brussels Sprouts

When eaten raw, one cup of these mini cabbage cousins can provide an entire day’s worth of vitamin C. Worried the kids won’t like them? Try sauteing sprouts with bacon and maple syrup. They’ll lose a little vitamin C in the cooking process, but they’ll be more palatable for picky eaters. If you’re ready to go for it, here’s an awesome sprout salad.

Kale

Considering this leafy green is a staple of most health-food trends, it’s no wonder it’s packed with vitamin C. Its kitchen possibilities are nearly endless, too. Try whipping up a snack like Old Bay crispy kale chips or make a meal out of it with hearty, nutritious soups.

Broccoli

Raw, steamed or roasted, this quintessential vegetable goes a long way toward a healthy, balanced diet, and can be found year-round at grocery stores. Fend off the complaints of picky eaters with our collection of cheesy breakfasts, crunchy sides and creamy dinners—all of which put broccoli at center stage.

Parsley

Sprinkling a couple tablespoons of parsley on a dish doesn’t just make it look prettier. The little leafy green also rounds meals out with vitamin C, along with a healthy dose of iron. Its mild flavor goes well with just about anything, from simple lemon potatoes to mouthwatering baked cod.

Here’s what to do with an entire bunch of parsley.

Cauliflower

There’s a reason cauliflower is a staple of trendy diets like keto. For what broccoli’s paler cousin lacks in color, it makes up for in nutritional value. You don’t have to struggle through flavorless steamed cauliflower, either—there are dozens of ways to dress it up with family-friendly flavor.

The post 13 Vitamin C-Packed Foods (That Aren’t Oranges) appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Christmas-Themed Cookie Cutters

Start with the basics and use festively shaped cookie cutters ($20) to craft picture-perfect cutout cookies. Since each cookie will be the same size, they’ll be even more irresistible thanks to their bakery-window uniformity.

Purchase here.

Check out our Christmas Cookies Baking Guide!

Cookie Turntable

Like a lazy Susan specifically for decorating cookies, this rotating surface ($20) keeps awkward reaches out of the cookie decorating equation. Since you don’t have to rotate cookies with your hands, it prevents smudges and mistakes when making even the most impressive cookie arrangements.

Purchase here.

Bag-Free Icing Tool

Forget hassling with cumbersome plastic bags and use a convenient icing pump ($15) to adorn cookies with sugary sweetness. With a variety of nozzles, you can create decorated treats that will wow the entire family—like a happy sweater-wearing gingerbread man.

Purchase here.

Christmas Stencils

Take the guesswork out of precise decorations by using pre-made stencils ($13). Spread over them with royal icing or melted chocolate, or sprinkle them with cocoa or colored sugar to add fuss-free details to any cookie. Before you start to decorate, read up on these cookie decorating tips.

Purchase here.

Holiday Shapes Cookie Pan

Pans with Christmas-themed molds ($18) make it a cinch to whip up a dozen cookies with festive shapes. Use them to add effortless flair to decoration-free recipes like our fruitcake Christmas cookies.

Purchase here.

Scriber Needle Set

These thin needles ($6) can be used to gently drag icing to create ornate swirling patterns and subtle textures. Their fine points are also handy for popping air bubbles, prying decorations from parchment and removing fondant shapes from molds.

Purchase here.

Edible Markers

If piping isn’t your thing, go freehand and use edible markers ($8) to draw any design you see fit. Just coat cookies with a layer of royal icing and get in touch with your creative side to make one-of-a-kind decorations. Here’s how to use them like a pro.

Purchase here.

Airbrushing Kit

Vivid backgrounds and smooth-flowing color gradients are a cinch with an airbrushing kit ($120). Use one to set a backdrop for other decorations or pair with a stencil to whip up large batches of beautiful cookies.

Purchase here.

Cookie Press

A cookie press like this ($30) will push dough through cutout discs to create perfectly shaped cookies with factory-like efficiency. That means less time perfecting the shape of Christmas-tree cookies and more time enjoying the festive flavor. Whip up these spritz cookie recipes. 

Purchase here.

Christmas Cookie Gift Box

Put the finishing touches on your Christmas creations with a cheery gift box ($16). Thanks to the see-through windows, recipients will get a sneak peek at your delightfully decorated cookies.

Purchase here.

Note: Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The post 10 Decorating Tools You’ll Need to Make Pretty Christmas Cookies appeared first on Taste Recipes.

How to Make Sugar Cubes

Ingredients

• Sugar*
• Water
• Coloring (optional)
• Flavoring (optional)

* Pure granulated sugar works best. Find our guide to sugar here.

Instructions

Step 1: Water It Down

Pour your sugar into a bowl and add water until the sugar is just moist. You’ll want to create an even, crumbly texture. If it comes out too watery, add a touch more sugar. Too dry? Sprinkle in some water.

Step 2: Make It Colorful (Optional)

If you want your cubes to pop with vivid color, add a drop of food coloring and stir it into the sugar-and-water mix. It’s best to start small and add more coloring as needed to avoid making the hue too dark. Find the right food coloring for your project.

Step 3: Add Some Flavor (Optional)

Take sweet-tooth satisfaction to the next level by adding flavor to your sugar cubes. Try a splash of vanilla extract, rose water or lemon juice for an easy-peasy improvement. If the additional liquid waters things down, mix in more sugar until the texture is perfect.

Step 4: Make Your Shapes

Use a spoon to place your sugary mixture into a mold. Try using a small ice cube tray, or create fun shapes with a candy mold. Whatever mold you use, make sure you pack the sugar firmly so the cubes hold their shape. Remove excess wet sugar from the tops of the molds with a pastry scraper or brush.

If you don’t have a mold on hand, you can spread the mixture about a half-inch thick on a sheet pan and score with a knife.

Step 5: Let Them Dry

Let the cubes dry completely before removing them from the mold (or cutting into cubes if you didn’t use a mold). The sugar’s consistency, humidity levels and size of the molds can all affect drying times, so we recommend leaving them out overnight at room temperature.

What to Do with Sugar Cubes

How to Use Them

Your homemade sugar cubes are ready to go! Serve them on their own, pair with homemade coffee creamers or make them even more decadent with Christmas decorations.

How to Store Sugar Cubes

Your unused cubes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two years.

Drop a Cube in Your Fancy Coffee

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Frothy Cafe BombonI discovered this layered java beverage during my honeymoon in Spain. —Keri Hesemann, St. Charles, Missouri

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This chocolate coffee recipe is sure to be the highlight of your morning!

Easy Spiced Morning MochaThis recipe is a delicious morning pick-me-up and still tastes great when made with low-fat milk.—Vicki Wright, Omaha, Nebraska

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Coffee with Cinnamon and ClovesA quick-and-easy, fall-flavored coffee made with instant granules. What's not to love about this special beverage? —Jill Garn, Charlotte, Michigan

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Caramel MochaIf you crave cafe-style coffees at home, here's a recipe for caramel mocha. You can make this decadent, sweet recipe within a few minutes and have a drink that rivals what you'd get at a coffeehouse.

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Comforting Coffee MilkThis recipe is special to me because the delicious ingredients and flavors speak for themselves without those extra preservatives. Now that’s refreshing! —Brenda Schrag, Farmington, New Mexico

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Holiday Peppermint MochaMake spirits bright with a minty mocha to share under the mistletoe or around the piano. I’ve also stirred in coffee liqueur instead of peppermint. —Lauren Brien-Wooster, South Lake Tahoe, California

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Irish CoffeeIrish coffee, with a splash of Irish whiskey, sugar and cream, is a classic recipe for a reason. Cozy up with this easy-to-make boozy treat. Sláinte!

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Mocha Morning DrinkWhen I'm sipping this delicious coffee, I almost feel as if I'm visiting my favorite coffeehouse. —Jill Rodriguez, Gonzales, Louisiana

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Caramel-Chai Tea LatteInspired by the spicy chai drinks served at coffee shops, I whipped up a caramel-drizzled latte I can enjoy at home anytime. —Katelyn Kelly, Perryville, Maryland

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Viennese CoffeeThis isn't your regular cup of Joe! Dress it up with chocolate, whipped cream and more, making it a drink to savor! —Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Hazelnut Mocha SmoothiesThis smooth blend of coffee, cocoa and nutty flavors is better than any coffeehouse version we've tried. Try it, and we're sure you will agree. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Iced Coffee LatteThis amazing alternative to regular hot coffee is much more economical than store-bought coffee drinks. Sweetened condensed milk and a hint of chocolate lend a special touch. —Heather Nandell, Johnston, Iowa

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Coconut Lover's FrappeI love frozen beverages, so I wanted to create one similar to those in coffee shops but without coffee as an ingredient. When I drink this frosty treat it's as good as any specialty shop drink but without the hassle or the cost. —Emily Semmelrock, Jewett City, Connecticut

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Sweet Kahlua CoffeeI have this beverage brewing in my slow cooker at my annual Christmas open house. I set out the whipped cream and grated chocolate in festive dishes so guests can help themselves to as much Kahlua-flavored coffee as they'd like.—Ruth Gruchow, Yorba Linda, California

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Frosty Caramel CappuccinoThis frothy iced cappuccino is positively delicious for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack or an after-dinner dessert. It's also a great quick treat to serve with a plate of cookies for the holidays. To make the ice cream topping easier to drizzle, put it in a squeeze bottle, take the cap off and microwave for a few seconds. —Carol Mann, Summerfield, Florida

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Honey Spiced LatteWe combine rich molasses, golden honey and a host of spices to create this warm and comforting beverage.—Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Hazelnut CoffeeThe blend of flavors—coffee, hazelnut and a bit of chocolate—makes this drink absolutely sensational. It is delightful for breakfast or brunch, or serve it as one of your beverage offerings at a cocktail or dinner party. —Frieda Bliesner, McAllen, Texas

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Irish Cream CoffeeA steaming cup of this Irish cream coffee makes the perfect pick-me-up any time of day. Try experimenting with other liqueurs or creamers to give each cup new life. —Carol Fate, Waverly, Illinois

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Hot Ginger CoffeeI like to sit by the fire and sip this coffee on a cold winter day. It's a wonderful warmup after shoveling snow, skiing, skating or snowmobiling. —Audrey Thibodeau, Gilbert, Arizona

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Iced CoffeeWhen my sister introduced me to iced coffee, I wasn’t sure I’d like it. Not only did I love it, but I decided to start making my own iced coffee recipe. This easy version is a refreshing alternative to hot coffee. —Jenny Reece, Lowry, Minnesota

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Cinnamon Mocha CoffeeMost store-bought flavored coffees are expensive. Here's a special early-morning beverage you can make at home. The aroma of cinnamon and cocoa makes this mocha coffee hard to resist. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Cappuccino PunchWhen I tried this punch at a friend's wedding shower, I had to have the recipe. Guests will eagerly gather around the punch bowl when you ladle out this frothy mocha ice cream drink. —Rose Reich, Nampa, Idaho

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Note: Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The post How to Make Sugar Cubes at Home appeared first on Taste Recipes.

A Sure Jolt

Brewed Coffee

Coffee is most people’s go-to for a burst of energy, and for good reason-a single cup contains about 100mg or more of caffeine, depending on the roast. A good rule of thumb is the lighter the roast, the more caffeine it’ll contain. Some iced coffees are highly concentrated, too.

Good to know: Coffee takes about 20 minutes to take effect. Try to keep tabs on how much coffee you’re drinking. If you knock back more than four cups a day and start to feel jittery or have trouble sleeping, consider switching to half-caf or decaf in the afternoons and evenings.

Espresso

Coffee’s concentrated cousin, espresso, offers nearly the same kick with far less liquid. A single ounce contains about 50mg of the energizing substance. Espresso’s complex flavor, often less bitter, can be a little easier on the palate than black coffee. If flavor’s what you’re looking for, you might be able to enjoy espresso without loading up on cream and sugar. Diet bonus!

Good to know: It’s easy to turn down a late night coffee drink, but be careful when eating late-night desserts made with the beans. A post-dinner espresso cookie may melt in your mouth, but the beans’ caffeine might keep you up late.

Energizing, but Proceed with Caution

Lattes and Cappuccinos

These sugary coffee shop delights bundle caffeine with a whole lot of flavor. (Make your own version at home.) Along with frothy milk and flavored syrups, the drinks are made with multiple shots of espresso. Most baristas will fit two shots of espresso into your large latte.

Good to know: With great flavor comes great responsibility-these tasty drinks are usually rich in sugar, so don’t make them your only source of caffeine.

Tea

A spot of tea can put some pep in your step without giving you the caffeine jitters. A cup of black or green tea typically contains around 30mg of caffeine, so you can sip throughout the day without worrying about overstimulation. A notable exception to this rule is chai tea, which can pack just as much caffeine as a cup of coffee.

Good to know: With the varieties of teas and blends available, there’s a tea to suit just about any palate. Many teas are also packed with antioxidants, which may help the body protect itself against cell damage and disease. Most herbal teas have no caffeine but might offer other benefits.

Soda

A refreshing can of pop can help get you through groggy afternoons with a decent dose of caffeine—a typical cola contains nearly 30mg. But take care to read the labels: Brands like Pepsi Zero Sugar pack a whopping 69mg per can.

Good to know: Try not to drink too much soda. The drink can stop diets in their tracks and contribute to health problems. Both the sugars and phosphoric acid in soda can cause trouble for otherwise healthy teeth and bones. Be careful about mixing soda with alcohol, as well. Caffeine can mask alcohol’s intoxicating effect, and sugar can make it easy to drink too much.

If you need to cut back on soda, try these infused water ideas.

Energy Drinks

With as much caffeine as a cup of coffee and a sweet, sugary taste to boot, energy drinks are the darling of convenience stores. In addition to boosting energy, some claim to make it easier to focus on tasks. Be skeptical of health claims like this.

Good to know: A lot of energy drinks get their caffeine from the seeds of guarana, a South American climbing plant. Some energy drink ingredients can cause the jitters, energy crashes and other side effects. Stay away if you’re pregnant!

Surprising Ways to Perk Up

Dark Chocolate

Believe it or not, dark chocolate can give you a slight energy boost. Cocoa beans contain caffeine as well, and a single bar of semisweet chocolate can contain around 20mg. Here are 40 ways to get your dark chocolate fix.

Good to know: When shopping for dark chocolate, make sure it’s at least 70% cacao to get the most bang for your buck. Milk chocolate just doesn’t pack the same wallop. Like tea, dark chocolate is also chock-full of antioxidants and has other benefits.

Protein Bars

Along with satisfying tummies between lunch and dinner, some protein bars can fight the 3 p.m. blues with a zap of caffeine. Some popular brands contain up to 50mg per bar.

Good to know: Even if there’s no caffeine added, protein bars with chocolate, green tea, or coffee extract will contain natural levels of the stimulant.

(Here are even more surprising sources of caffeine.)

Now that you’re all hyped up on our caffeine-packed facts, dish them out to your friends and family-along with a slice of coffee-enhanced dessert.

Get Your Coffee Fix

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Dark Chocolate-Caramel Macchiato PieCoffee desserts were at the top of my list of entries for in the National Pie Championship. This impressive pie is flavored with coffee flavor and cool chocolate curls on top. —Amy Mills, Sebring, Florida

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Coffee CheesecakeCoffee lovers will line up for this rich coffee cheesecake. It's creamy and just mildly sweet, which allows the coffee flavor to shine through. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Coffee Ice CreamI combined two recipes: one for vanilla ice cream and the other for a special coffee sauce to create this homemade coffee ice cream. I serve it plain, scooped into a dessert dish, so the creamy coffee flavor can be enjoyed to the fullest. Theresa Hansen, Pensacola, Florida

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White Chocolate-Cappuccino CookiesThese adorable cookies shaped like coffee cups don't last long with my friends and family. For an even richer flavor, I use a mocha latte coffee mix. —Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana

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Serve these cookies with a mug full of chocolate coffee.

Mocha CakeWithout a doubt, this is the best cake I've ever made. I share this decadent mocha cake with everyone I can! —Katherine DeLoach, Visalia, California

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AffogatoThere are plenty of fun coffee shop-inspired drinks out there—but none are as indulgent as an affogato. This simple Italian dessert will transport you to Italy in about a minute! —Risa Lichtman, Portland, OregonGo to Recipe

Sea Salt Mint White Mocha CookiesThis recipe came from my mom's Grandma Alice, who taught her how to bake. Grandma Alice always had a fresh plate of warm cookies on her counter. I learned some of her recipes by heart as a child, and I've been making these since high school. They taste like Christmas.—Kristin Bowers, Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Coffee-Chocolate CakeThis chocolate-coffee cake recipe makes a deliciously moist chocolate cake flavored with coffee. It's topped with an elegant buttercream frosting that makes every slice even more decadent.

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Coffee Bean BarkChopped coffee beans add a yummy crunch to this pretty two-toned bark. Coffee lovers won’t be able to resist pieces of the chocolaty candy treat. —Anne Addesso, Sheboygan, Wisconsin

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Coffee Maple SpritzI like spritz cookies because they're easier to make than rolled cutouts but I can still be creative with different shapes and sizes. Feel free to substitute vanilla or rum extract for the maple flavoring. —Dierdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri

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No-Bake Cappuccino DessertSummer gatherings call for cool coffee desserts like this one. Lots of the party invites I receive come with a request for this delicious treat. You can make it even more chocolaty by adding cocoa powder to the dry pudding mixes. —Mary Beth Desens, Fredonia, Wisconsin

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Chocolate-Covered Coffee BeansTwo terrific flavors—coffee and chocolate—come together in this mouthwatering recipe from our Test Kitchen. Learn how to make chocolate-covered coffee beans to enjoy as a snack or use as a topping on your favorite mocha desserts. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Coffee Shop FudgeThis coffee fudge recipe is one that my son, Jackson, and I worked on together. After several efforts, we decided this version was a winner. It is smooth, creamy and has an irresistible crunch from pecans. The coffee and cinnamon blend nicely to provide subtle flavor. —Beth Osborne Skinner, Bristol, Tennessee

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EisekaffeeYou can probably guess that it means “iced coffee” in German, but it’s nothing like iced coffee in the States. The German version is more like a root beer float! In a glass cup, cold coffee is poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, then topped with whipped cream and even sprinkles. —Risa Lichtman, Portland, OregonGo to Recipe

Mocha-Pecan Ice Cream BonbonsThese bite-sized bonbons may sound tricky to make, but you'll find that fashioning them is a breeze. What's more, our cooking experts advise that you keep this recipe handy when you serve them—as soon as folks sample the treats, they'll be asking how to make them. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Tiramisu Cheesecake DessertLayers of vanilla wafers soaked in coffee-infused syrup, creamy cheesecake filling, and a finishing touch of whipped topping and cocoa—this tiramisu cheesecake combines simplicity and sophistication in every bite.

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Coffee ‘n’ Cream BrowniesA friend gave me the recipe for these rich cakelike brownies topped with a creamy coffee-enhanced filling and a chocolate glaze. I like to garnish each square with a coffee bean. —Michelle Tiemstra, Lacombe, Alberta

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Cappuccino Mousse TrifleThis is such an easy trifle to make—and it's one of my favorite coffee desserts of all time. I like to pipe whipped topping around the edge of the bowl, grate chocolate in the center and sprinkle with cinnamon. —Tracy Bergland, Prior Lake, Minnesota

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Crispy Coffee CookiesNo matter what type of coffee you enjoy, you'll love these crispy coffee cookies. They're just right for dunking into your morning cuppa or cold brew. —Romane Moeller, Colorado Springs, Colorado

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Brownie Mocha TrifleBy using instant pudding and a convenient box of brownie mix, there's nothing to the preparation. The result is moist and chewy. And the layers look so pretty spooned into a glass trifle bowl. —Louise Fauth, Foremost, Alberta

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Mocha Meringue Sandwich CookiesThese crisp, chewy cookies can be made any size you choose. They're also great with a variety of fillings—try making them with fruit preserves. —Marie Valdes, Brandon, FL

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Fudgy Layered Irish Mocha BrowniesMy husband and I are big fans of Irish cream, so I wanted to incorporate it into a brownie. I started with my mom's brownie recipe, then added frosting and ganache. These decadent treats are the result, and we really enjoy them! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

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Quick and Easy TiramisuNo list of coffee desserts is complete without a quick and easy tiramisu! Make it ahead for added mealtime convenience. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Salted Caramel Cappuccino CheesecakeAfter spending years living in Seattle, I’ve become a coffee junkie! I had to relocate across the country for a time, so I created this cheesecake with the flavors of salted caramel, coffee and espresso. It lifted me up on days when I felt blue about leaving one of the world’s amazing coffee destinations. —Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington

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Mocha Hazelnut TorteI make this cake on birthdays and other special occasions because it looks and tastes so amazing. The combination of mild hazelnut and coffee flavors is impossible to resist. —Christina Pope, Speedway, Indiana

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Morning Buzz Rice Krispies TreatsThese caffeinated cereal bars will help you perk right up! —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Chocolate Espresso-Nut TorteI love chocolate and nuts, and they come together deliciously in this torte. And the espresso powder really helps kick up the chocolate flavor. Serve it with sweetened whipped cream or your favorite ice cream. —Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey

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Tiramisu CookiesThese tiramisu cookies bring out the delicious flavors of tiramisu, sandwich-style. Pack these treats in a decorative container for an easy edible hostess gift. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Double Chocolate Espresso Pound CakeTwo of my biggest loves in life—chocolate and coffee—come together in this velvety pound cake. Grate some extra chocolate on top and thank me later. —Rachel Bernhard Seis, Taste Recipes Senior Editor

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Layered Mocha CheesecakeIn my search for the perfect mocha cheesecake, I ended up combining a few of my favorite recipes to create this delicious version. It’s as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

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Cuppa Joe Caramel CakeI get compliments on this cake wherever I take it. It is very much an adult cake, with the hit of coffee and the warmth of the brown sugar and caramel.—Leigh Doutt, Pueblo West, Colorado

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Special Mocha CupcakesHave a splash of coffee left in your pot? Use it up in this dessert (and these coffee recipes too). Topped with a fluffy frosting and chocolate sprinkles, these extra-rich, extra-delicious cupcakes smell wonderful while baking and taste even better! —Mary Bilyeu, Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Mocha TrufflesNothing compares to the melt-in-your-mouth flavor of these truffles...or to the simplicity of the recipe. Whenever I make them for my family or friends, they're quickly devoured. No one has to know how easy they are to prepare! —Stacy Abell, Olathe, Kansas

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Easy Mocha Cream PieThis chocolate crust is excellent with a cool no-bake mocha filling. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Mocha Baked AlaskasTurn this vintage treat into one of the best coffee desserts. You can make these baked Alaskas in advance and torch the completed dessert right before serving. —Kerry Dingwall, Ponte Vedra, Florida

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Brownie Affogato SundaesWe can’t resist brownie sundaes. I combined an affogato (coffee-based beverage) idea with a brownie to get this decadent sundae that mixes it all in there: warm, cold, sweet and salty. —Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington

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Spiced Cappuccino Kiss CookiesCoffee desserts can also take the shape of a classic cookie. This recipe looks like a classic kiss cookie but has the coffee flavor many crave. —Cynthia Messenger, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

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The post The Best Sources of Caffeine Revealed appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Alabama

The Heavenly Donut Co., Birmingham

Simplicity goes a long way at The Heavenly Donut Co., where bakers whip up fresh batches of plain glazed doughnuts every morning. The secret recipe results in light and airy old-fashioneds that melt in your mouth and send you back to the counter to order more. (Try the classic at home with our glazed doughnut recipe).

Alaska

Dino’s Donuts, Anchorage

Even during the enveloping darkness of an Alaskan winter, Dino’s Donuts will brighten up your day. Dino’s goes far beyond basic glazes and fillings, offering goodies slathered in cream cheese, mocha and more. Even more decadent are their cake donuts, which sweetly crumble with every poke of a fork. Can’t make the trip? Get our best homemade doughnut recipes to recreate the flavor.

Arizona

19th Donut Hole, Mesa

Like a golf course with a 19th hole (slang for an on-site bar or restaurant), this doughnut shop goes above and beyond. Offering shimmering glazes and guilty-pleasure toppings, 19th Donut Hole also makes doughnut-croissant hybrids—fantastically flaky concoctions that can be eaten straight up or doused in sweet-tooth-satisfying drizzles.

Arkansas

Mark’s Do-Nut Shop, North Little Rock

Mark of Mark’s Do-Nut Shop puts the Midas touch on each of his doughnuts, transforming globs of dough into golden-hued pillows that are lighter than air. A thin sheen of glaze adds a touch of sweetness and toppings like coconut shavings up the ante.

Craving strawberry doughnuts? Try making them at home with our strawberry doughnut recipe!

California

Donut Bar, San Diego

As tasty as they look, you might hesitate to chomp into the impeccably designed doughnuts at San Diego’s Donut Bar. The bakery’s artisanal offerings are decorated with intricate latticeworks of drizzles, and elaborate icing turns the tiny cakes into mouthwatering characters.

Colorado

Glazed & Confused, Aurora

Let’s just say the monstrously flavorful doughnuts at Glazed & Confused aren’t for the faint of heart. Towering with toppings, their creations—such as the Confused Samoa (with caramel glaze and toasted coconut) or the bacon-adorned Breakfast of Champz—require a serious appetite.

There’s no better pastry to pair with coffee. Find the best types of doughnuts to make for breakfast or brunch.

Connecticut

Dottie’s Diner, Woodbury

This ’50s-style diner is home to done-right classic doughnuts that have caught the eye of just about everyone in the state. The wholesome, made-from-scratch treats can be ordered plain for dunking in coffee or topped with yummy chocolate or powdered sugar.

Delaware

Duck Donuts, Newark

You might expect the doughnuts at Duck Donuts to be covered in warm, dripping toppings…and you’d be right. But it doesn’t stop there. Along with sprinkles and crumbles, adventurous eaters can load up on nontraditional toppings like chopped bacon and an assortment of citrus combinations.

Florida

Five-O Donut Co., Sarasota

You’d better show up early to grab a bite at Five-O Donut Co., because they’ve been known to sell out as early as 11 a.m. Luckily, the shop’s staff set up a doughnut surveillance cam, so you can check in on the inventory before making the drive.

Georgia

Sublime Donuts, Atlanta

Circles are the standard in the world of doughnuts, but Sublime steps it up with fun shapes that are sure to leave a smile on your face. A crowd favorite is the star-shaped lemon doughnut with sunny-yellow frosting. More adventurous eaters are invited to try the Salt & Vinegar.

Hawaii

Kamehameha Bakery, Honolulu

Looks can be deceiving at this bakery. From afar, Kamehameha Bakery’s poi-glaze doughnuts might look like a chunk of the Diamond Head Volcano, but the surprisingly soft exterior gives way to a brightly colored cake that melts in your mouth. For those not in the know, poi is a purple-hued Polynesian staple made from mashed taro root. Find more great recipes from Hawaii.

Idaho

Amazing Glaze Donuts, Pocatello

Mashed potatoes take the place of flour in the aptly named spudnut, a staple at Amazing Glaze. The result is a fluffy and lighter-than-air treat that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee.

Illinois

Stan’s Donuts, Chicago

You might want to hit the gym before lifting up a Stan’s doughnut, because their treats have some serious heft. The shop’s topping-heavy style is in full effect with the Peanut Butter Pocket, a handful of a doughnut smothered in chocolate and filled to the brim with peanut butter.

Indiana

Long’s Bakery, Indianapolis

When Alton Brown and Martha Stewart recognize a doughnut shop, you know it’s good. This renowned bakery is known for its light and fluffy yeast doughnuts, which the bakers customize with classic glazes and sugary toppings. Next up: Find the best bakery in every state.

Iowa

Wyman’s Spudnuts, Okoboji

In true Iowan fashion, Wyman’s Spudnut’s serve up potato flour doughnuts daily. The potato flour gives the doughnuts a rib-sticking quality that’s seriously addictive. Be sure to try the Walter, a cinnamon-flavored doughnut that’s stuffed with apple pie filling.

Kansas

The Donut Whole, Wichita

Big flavor and entertainment go hand-in-hand at the Donut Whole. Munch on a cereal-speckled citrus-glazed doughnut or the King Midas (globbed with vanilla, peanuts, and syrup) during the shop’s weekend concerts.

Kentucky

Red’s Donut Shop, Paducah

Family-owned and in business since the mid-fifties, Red’s award-winning shop has perfected the art of the doughnut. Cake and yeast classics are up for grabs, along with apple fritters with a highly satisfying bite.

Louisiana

Blue Dot Donuts, New Orleans

Three former NOPD officers opened up Blue Dot Donuts back in 2011, and since then the doughnut shop has become a hot spot for locals and New Orleans tourists alike. Boasting up to 50 flavor combinations daily, you’ll see flavor combinations you won’t get anywhere else, like almond wedding cake and king cake. Keep the party rollin’ with these New Orleans-inspired recipes.

Maine

HiFi Donuts, Portland

HiFi Donuts in downtown Portland makes old world-style donuts from scratch each morning. You can get classic flavors like chocolate glazed and fresh coconut, but this shop really shines when it uses regional ingredients like with its blueberry frosted crisp and pumpkin pie flavors. Don’t forget to grab a coffee, too (it’s also spectacular).

Maryland

Fractured Prune, Ocean City

While Fracture Prune has expanded to multiple locations along the East Coast, its first location was in Ocean City where beachgoers can still enjoy fresh, made-to-order doughnuts with your choice of glaze and topping. Lemon glaze with shredded coconut? You got it. Marshmallow glaze with sea salt and crumbled bacon? Sure thing. At the Prune, the world is your oyster.

Massachusetts

Kanes Donuts, Saugus

This small-town mom-and-pop shop has been serving up freshly made doughnuts for more than 40 years, and their experience is obvious. Large in size and big on flavor, everything from apple fritters to jelly and cream combinations bring waves of yummy comfort.

Michigan

Hinkley Bakery, Jackson

A century-old oven and memorized family recipes put a special touch on every doughnut at Hinkley Bakery. Crowds flock for the family-owned shop’s chocolate crescents, along with a wide selection of fritters, glazes and doughnut holes.

Minnesota

Sarah Jane’s Bakery Northeast, Minneapolis

This bakery would make Grandma proud with its homey atmosphere and amazing flavors. One of their specialties is pączki, a traditional Polish pastry made from rich dough with a hint of alcohol that helps prevent the oil from seeping in. (Make your own with our pączki recipe.)
Learn how to make your own sugar donuts at home.

Mississippi

The Tatonut Donut Shop, Ocean Springs

By using potato flour, this bakery creates light, airy doughnuts that are fluffier than a cloud. The Tatonut also whisp up the cakey variety, such as iced king doughnuts with sparkling colored sugar. (Fan of lightweight treats? Try our feather-light doughnut recipe.)

Missouri

Hurts Donut, Springfield

Quirky and wonderful, Hurts stands out with its selection of creative specialty flavors ranging from Cotton Candy to S’mores to Cookie Monster and more.

Montana

Granny’s Gourmet Donuts, Bozeman

What started as the only doughnut shop in town has become a statewide favorite. Granny’s makes more than a thousand doughnuts each day, finishing them off with sweet toppings such as jam and fresh strawberries.

Nebraska

Olsen Bake Shop, Omaha

Along with their elaborately decorated wedding cakes, this family-owned bakery makes a mean doughnut. Gooey chocolate covers their old-fashioned offerings, and their bite-sized doughnut holes are pure cakey goodness.

Nevada

Pinkbox Doughnuts, Las Vegas

Check out Pinkbox’s traditional doughnuts and croissant-doughnut hybrids, which are topped with colorful icing and sprinkles that rival the Las Vegas Strip. Big appetite? Try their hand-sized fritters.

New Hampshire

Brothers Donuts, Franklin

This old-school deli has perfected the classics, offering light and airy, yet satisfyingly sweet doughnuts sell out daily. Even their plain glazed doughnuts get rave reviews! Learn how to make your own doughnuts at home.

New Jersey

Broad Street Dough Co., Oakhurst

You might not look at regular ol’ doughnuts the same after a stop at Broad Street Dough Co. in New Jersey. (Case in point: the triple-layered rainbow doughnut with vanilla mousse, marshmallow dip, and tons of sprinkles.)

New Mexico

Rebel Donut, Albuquerque

With creations like red chile chocolate bacon doughnuts and apple green chile fritters, Rebel Donut’s offerings explode with flavor. What’s more, they offer both cake and yeast-dough doughnuts made from scratch.

New York

Daily Provisions, New York City

While there are seemingly thousands of doughnuts that vie to be the best in the city, Daily Provisions has made its name by specializing in one specific type of doughnut: the cruller. Their signature doughnut is fluffy on the inside and has a caramelized golden-brown crunchy exterior, which is all the more tantalizing with its defined swirl shape. Fans call the maple cruller “life-changing.”

North Carolina

HenDough Chicken & Donuts, Hendersonville

You might not think doughnuts and chicken go hand in hand, but Hendough makes it work. The fried-chicken joint also whips up batches of big cake donuts, all of which are powdered and glazed to perfection.

North Dakota

Sandy’s Donuts & Coffee Shop, West Fargo

Some of the doughnuts at Sandy’s look like something from a child’s wildest dreams, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. One bite of their M&M–sprinkled doughnut or the Dirt & Worms—topped with chocolate crumbles and gummy worms—and you’ll be running home to watch Saturday morning cartoons all over again.

Ohio

Bill’s Donut Shop, Centerville

Late night and early morning cravings alike can be satisfied at Bill’s Donut Shop, a 24-hour bakery with more than 50 varieties of doughnuts. Take a seat at the counter and go to town on a glazed pretzel twist or a cake doughnut made with applesauce or sour cream.

Oklahoma

I Love Donuts, Oklahoma City

Doughnuts come in every shape at I Love Donuts, an OKC bakery with plenty of creativity. Hearts, monkeys, and letters spelling “Happy Birthday” are common sights in their mouthwatering displays.

Oregon

Voodoo Doughnut, Portland & Eugene

Voodoo Doughnut absolutely smothers their often-cheekily named doughnuts in glazes and toppings. Take the Memphis Mafia, a fried-dough treat with banana chunks, cinnamon glaze, chocolate, peanut butter and chocolate chips.

Pennsylvania

Federal Donuts, Philadelphia

Decadent, dessert-worthy doughnuts are typical here. After chowing down on a basket of Federal’s fried chicken, top things off with a blueberry pancake or white chocolate cherry doughnut. (Looking for something more traditional? Check out our recipe for Pennsylvania Dutch Potato Doughnuts.)

Rhode Island

PVDonuts, Providence

With sweet and savory flavors like rosemary brown butter and chamomile yogurt honeycomb, it’s no wonder PVDonuts usually has a line out the door. Fair warning: They usually sell out before 3 p.m.

South Carolina

Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts, Charleston

The delightful doughnuts at Glazed Gourmet are homemade with home-grown ingredients and are free of preservatives and food coloring. They still beam with color, though—toppings made with blueberry juice and green tea, for example, give the tasty treats a vivid flourish. Learn how to make your own doughnut glaze at home.

South Dakota

Jerry’s Cakes & Donuts, Rapid City

This bakery specializes in towering wedding cakes, so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing when it comes to doughnuts, too. The pastry professionals at Jerry’s Cakes & Donuts make classics with simple glazes and top special varieties with almonds or caramel.

Tennessee

Jody’s Donuts and Bakery, Memphis

Jellies, creams and iced doughnuts are on the menu year-round at Jody’s, but check out their rotating menu of seasonal treats. Pumpkin spice and apple crumb cakes should get you tastily through the fall.

Texas

Gourdough’s, Austin

Gourdough’s is run out of a retro Airstream trailer, but their doughnuts are anything but compact. Grab a fork and knife and dig into a monstrous treat like the Fat Elvis—topped with grilled bananas and bacon with peanut butter icing and honey—or the Dirty Berry with fudge icing and grilled strawberries.

Utah

The Big O Doughnuts, Salt Lake City

The Big O Doughnuts brings gourmet vegan doughnuts to the menu with yeast-raised treats that are fried to perfection and topped with unique fresh flavors. With a variety of flavors ranging from Vanilla chai to Blueberry Lavender Cheesecake, you can’t just have one.

Vermont

Allen Brothers Farm Market, Westminster

Vermonters flock to the Allen Brothers’ Farm bakery for their renowned cider doughnuts. Soft and just a little bit crumbly, the sugary, cinnamony treats and a glass of warm cider are a surefire way to warm up during the chilly Vermont autumn. Don’t miss our copycat apple cider doughnut recipe to recreate these treats at home.

Virginia

The Apple House, Linden

Another fall favorite is The Apple House, a friendly restaurant on Skyline Drive in northern Virginia. After a big plate of barbecue, you can kick back and enjoy a mouthwatering apple butter doughnut.

Washington

Original House of Donuts, Multiple Locations

Whether you’re in Lakewood, Tacoma, or Puyallup, the Original House of Donuts has an expansive menu packed with tasty, doughy treats. Escape the Pacific Northwest’s rain while munching on a cherry-frosted cake doughnut, or go all-in with an old-fashioned buttermilk bar. (You, too, can make masterful buttermilk treats with our recipe.)

West Virginia

Peace, Love and Little Donuts, Huntington

This funky shop harkens back to the ’70s with a hip atmosphere and far-out flavors. Enlighten your taste buds with Peace, Love and Little Donuts‘ varieties like raspberry lemonade and salted chocolate.

Wisconsin

Manderfield’s Home Bakery, Appleton

Manderfield’s raised doughnuts are known throughout the state, and for good reason. Along with traditional flavors, the bakery serves gooey goodness in the form of triple chocolate cream filled, snowball and turtle doughnuts.

Wyoming

Cowboy Donuts, Rock Springs

With over 55 flavors, it can be hard to choose at Cowboy Donuts. You’ll just have to go back again (and again) to try them all.

The post The Best Doughnut Shops in Every State appeared first on Taste Recipes.