It seems Shake Shack adores nostalgic comfort food as much as I do, because the chain added a Banana Pudding Shake to its summer menu. Being the banana pudding connoisseur that I am, I absolutely had to have a taste.

What’s in the Banana Pudding Shake?

Like its namesake dessert, this shake consists of frozen banana pudding custard made with real bananas, hand-spun with vanilla wafer cookies. It’s topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a vanilla wafer crumble.

Shake Shack is known for having some of the best fast-food shakes, so my expectations were high as I walked in to order.

What does the Banana Pudding Shake taste like?

The Banana Pudding Shake delivers on the banana pudding taste. I was extremely impressed with the cookie-to-frozen custard ratio, and the consistency was absolutely dreamy. It was thick enough to make me work for it, but not so thick that I got annoyed.

My shake didn’t have any of the promised Nilla Wafer crumbles on top, probably because I went the day the menu dropped. Honestly, though? I didn’t miss that final touch.

The banana flavor itself was subtle but real. Sometimes milkshakes have a heavy, inauthentic taste that makes me want to gag. (Sorry, Shamrock Shake, I’m looking at you.) This shake, however, left the artificial banana taste at home and relied on the power of fresh bananas. I was absolutely floored with the overall combination and found myself sucking it down to nothing almost instantly.

As I climbed into my car to leave Shake Shack, I stared longingly at the menu from outside, wishing I had purchased another. I imagine I’ll be taking a trip again tomorrow. Darn you, Shake Shack!

How long will it be on the menu?

The Banana Pudding Shake will likely be gone by the end of summer. Shake Shack is also dropping two other nostalgia-heavy flavors: Oreo Cookie Funnel Cake and Campfire S’mores. While I am a banana pudding lover at heart, the Campfire S’mores shake was a close second for me.

Now don’t go puddin’ it off—grab these shakes before they’re gone!

Related:

• We Made the Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Recipe
• How to Make Milkshakes
• Ripe Banana Recipes to Use Up Your Bunch

The post This Iconic Fast-Food Chain Has Banana Pudding Shakes on the Menu for Summer appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Wellness-minded Kourtney Kardashian has a company called Lemme that includes a line of vitamins and supplements. Kim Kardashian is behind the popular shapewear and leisure brand Skims.

Now, Khloé Kardashian is getting into the food space. Her denim company, Good American, is quite possibly my favorite place to buy jeans, so I was excited to check out a new product from her. I’ll admit, this one sounds a little far-fetched.

It’s called Khloud Protein Popcorn.

What is Khloud Protein Popcorn?

My mantra is “don’t knock it til you try it,” and it’s served me well so far. I love popcorn and protein, so why not try a product that combines them?

The popcorn comes in three different flavors: Olive Oil & Sea Salt, White Cheddar and Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn. The packaging has a soft, almost cartoon-y quality to the branding. The bags are pastel pink, yellow and purple, and the “Khloud” name is noticeably in all lowercase, which is very on trend at the moment. My first thought was that this popcorn is really trying hard to look good on your Instagram feed.

How does the Khloud Protein Popcorn taste?

I bought a bag of each flavor to try. I started with the Olive Oil & Sea Salt, since it had the mildest flavor profile. At first, it didn’t really taste like anything, but I kept eating it. The correct way to eat popcorn is by shoving a handful into your mouth, so that’s exactly what I did.

After eating about one cup’s worth, my fingers were coated by the proprietary “Khloud dust” that makes this regular popcorn full of protein. There is still almost no flavor. It’s…weird. It’s not bad popcorn, but it feels off. And maybe I’m biased because the Trader Joe’s Olive Oil and Sea Salt Popcorn is literally my favorite popcorn of all time. This Khloud variety is a pass from me.

After that weird start, I moved on to the White Cheddar option. I immediately got a hit of cheddar flavor from the very first kernel. This flavor was really pleasant, and I was happily surprised at how cheesy it tasted. This is also smothered in “Khloud dust,” but I found it less off-putting on this variety. If you’re used to the Skinny Pop White Cheddar popcorn, this will taste almost identical. In fact, I would purchase this again as a snack. I would also eat it with chopsticks, my favorite Reddit hack for eating snacks with “dust” on them.

Finally, I opened the Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn (how mad do you think Khloé is that “Korn” is already taken?) and gave it a go. I really love kettle corn, so going into this, I had high expectations. The popcorn delivers on the “sweet and salty” moniker, but the sweet kernels are like 10 times better than the salty ones. If I had to put money on it, I’d bet that the “salty” kernels are just my (new) nemesis: the Olive Oil and Sea Salt flavor. It’s such a bummer! I might buy this again, but only if it’s on sale.

Where can I get Khloud Protein Popcorn?

Khloud Protein Popcorn retails for $4.99 a bag and is available exclusively at Target and khloudfoods.com. Since the website uses a more generic “Khloud Foods” term, I anticipate that this is not the last time we’ll see “Khloud dust” on grocery shelves. I only hope that future products turn out more like the White Cheddar popcorn!

Related:

• The Best Bagged Popcorn for Quick Fix Snacking
• How to Make the Best Popcorn
• The Surprising Difference Between Yellow and White Popcorn Kernels

The post I Tried Khloud Protein Popcorn, Khloe Kardashian’s Latest Creation appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The only trouble? Oftentimes these tall or irregularly-shaped cakes are difficult to transport. It’s not like they fit in a standard cake carrier, after all! Enter: the Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set, which comes with both a bundt pan and a bundt-shaped cake keeper for easy travel.

EMILY WAY FOR TASTE OF HOME

Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set

This stylish bundt pan comes with a clever cake keeper that keeps it intact during travel.

$30 at Amazon

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What is the Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set?

A bundt cake is my go-to for potlucks and parties. No frosting means little travel risk, and it’s so darn easy to portion out perfect slices. When it comes to bundt pans, Nordic Ware takes the cake. This USA-based kitchenware company has produced gorgeous bundt pans and other high-quality bakeware since 1946.

Using the Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set is just as simple (and satisfying) as using Nordic Ware’s Brownie Buddy. Simply fill the bundt with your favorite batter and pop it in the oven. Then, once it’s cooled, flip it onto the keeper plate. Easy peasy!

How We Tested It

The Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set immediately blew me away with its beauty. The elegant swirls and blue hue give it a fun, dreamy quality. Additionally, the cake pan and keeper felt very sturdy and secure. In terms of looks alone, I give the set a 10/10. Next step: baking a cake.

Baking

My husband’s birthday was fast approaching, so I took this as my opportunity to test the bundt pan set. Following a simple confetti cake recipe, I whipped up my batter and spooned it into the upside-down bundt after greasing it with a bit of butter.

According to Taste Recipes’s bundt cake tips, denser cakes tend to work better than light, fluffy cakes—something I didn’t know until I was in the midst of baking my first (very fluffy) cake in the pan. Despite displaying a perfectly browned bottom out of the oven, I fully expected it to fall apart once I flipped it over.

Flipping

When the cake mostly cooled, I popped the plate part of the keeper onto the pan, braced myself and flipped it onto the keeper plate. My expectation was a mess of partially-stuck pieces and a pile of crumbs. However, its clean release left me pleasantly surprised! While a few sprinkles stuck to the pan, the cake itself came out nearly perfect with zero assistance.

Honestly, I think you could even skip greasing the pan, which I plan to experiment with in the future. The nonstick material does a great job of keeping the cake from sticking, and without butter, I imagine it would come out a bit browner and less prone to leaving crumbs. That said, if you like your cakes a little more moist, butter away!

Taking

The next step was packing up the cake for travel. We planned to take it to my in-laws, meaning the cake had a three-hour drive ahead of it.

The cake keeper itself doesn’t have any clips or straps. Instead, the top has two nodules on either side. Simply pop the keeper over the plate and twist it until the nodules slide into place. While I would love a more secure closure, the absence of clips means there’s nothing that can snap off over time.

We packed up the cake and popped an ice pack on top of the keeper to ensure it stayed nice and cool. I was worried about it sliding around inside the keeper, but it didn’t budge an inch during the entire drive. By the end of the trip, it looked just as gorgeous as the moment I flipped it over!

Storing

One of my favorite aspects of this set is how easy it is to store. Because the pan nestles right inside the keeper, it takes up less room in my cupboard than a separate set. And if there’s any cake left after your shindig, just pop the whole keeper in the fridge. The airtight keeper helps the cake stay moist and delicious, even after it’s cut.

Pros

• Pretty and durable
• Cakes release easily
• Keeper offers an airtight covering
• No clips that can break

Cons

• No handle

Final Verdict

The Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set is a great purchase for any home cook, whether you’re practiced with bundt pans or a total newbie. Plus, the pretty colors and luxe, heirloom feel makes it a lovely gift for cake bakers, too!

Where To Buy the Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set

You can snag the Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set at several different stores, including Sam’s Club, Walmart and Amazon. The entire set retails for around $30, which is a total steal for a set that includes a high-quality Nordic Ware pan and a cake keeper. Considering most Nordic Ware pans ring up for around $40, we highly recommend snagging this pretty pan set if you’re on a budget.

EMILY WAY FOR TASTE OF HOME

Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set

Say goodbye to cakes sticking with this nonstick bundt pan and keeper set.

$30 at Amazon

Shop on Sams Club

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FAQs

Is Nordic Ware dishwasher safe?

Nordic Ware’s iconic bundt pans usually come with a nonstick coating. While it makes cake delightfully easy to release, it also means that you shouldn’t put them in the dishwasher. This can cause discoloration, though it won’t affect the performance of the pan.

Is Nordic Ware nonstick?

Nordic Ware offers several product lines, including a nonstick bakeware line. According to the brand, Nordic Ware’s nonstick bakeware, including their Northern Lights bakeware, is aluminum with a high-quality nonstick coating. They’re also PFAS-free.

Where is Nordic Ware made?

Nordic Ware is one of the only US-based kitchen tool companies. The family-owned company, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota since 1946, produce many of their fancy bunts, sheet pans and even their microwave pasta cooker domestically.

What is a bundt pan?

A bundt pan is a donut-shaped pan. Bundt pans may or may not have intricate swirls or other designs molded into them, and they come in a variety of sizes, shapes and designs. The appeal of these pans is twofold: not only do they require little (or no) decoration, but they also promote even baking. As such, they make excellent gifts for bakers.

The post We Tried a Nordic Ware Bundt Pan Keeper Set—And It’s the Only Way To Bring Cake to a Potluck appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What’s next on the King’s agenda? I heard whispers of a new drink coming for the hot summer months; whispers of a fruity, frozen concoction that could be topped with tiny, colorful Nerds. It’s the Frozen Strawberry drink, and I sped straight to the drive-thru for a taste.

What does the Frozen Strawberry drink taste like?

To begin, the drink is maddeningly sweet. I’d expect no less from this kind of beverage, though, and I imagine it will be such a sugary relief on hot summer days. The consistency is similar to the Icee I used to slurp at movie theaters as a kid—not so frozen that it won’t suck up through your straw, but just enough to make it thick so you let it melt on your tongue.

Honestly, the frozen strawberry drink hit like nostalgia. The syrup was strawberry to the umpteenth degree, and it reminded me of the Fla-vor-Ice tubes I used to crunch on when I was younger. Add the overdose of crunchy Nerds on top, and you’ve got an intensely saccharine experience.

Overall, it was tasty. I can only take so much sugar at a time, so this won’t be something I’ll order daily. However, the product delivers. It’s full of flavor with a unique texture combo that will likely find a foothold in many people’s fast-food agendas (especially the under-12 age group).

And I will say, it complements a Texas Double Whopper beautifully.

How long will the drink be at BK?

We asked Burger King how long the Frozen Strawberry drink would be on the menu and were told: “for a limited time!”

Not a conclusive answer, but we imagine it will stick around through the better part of summer. Next time you’re at the King, give it a try! The strawberry lover in you will be ecstatic.

The post Burger King Just Released a New Strawberry Frozen Drink, and It Tastes Like Nostalgia appeared first on Taste Recipes.

While the chain’s quick service has stayed the same, its menu has changed drastically since the ’50s. Plenty of past menu items have been discontinued, so clearly, McDonald’s doesn’t sit on its laurels. The chain is constantly looking for the next big thing, and McCrispy Strips are next up to bat.

What are the new McCrispy Strips?

McCrispy Strips are a brand-new upgrade to the McDonald’s chicken menu. I’ve been a fan of McNuggets since I can remember, so I’m a loyal proponent of expanding the chicken options. I was a diehard fan of the Snack Wrap and still remember the Buttermilk Crispy Tenders from years ago.

I’m not alone—the McDonald’s community loves crispy chicken. The Golden Arches heeded the call of its fans and decided to drop its juicy, dippable chicken strips!

McDonald’s McCrispy Strips are made with real chicken and coated with a crispy breading. The best part? To go with the strips, McDonald’s introduced a brand-new Creamy Chili Dip. This sauce will be spicy, sweet and tangy—perfect adjectives to bring out the best in the salty McCrispy Strips.

When can I get McCrispy Strips?

McDonald’s will officially roll out McCrispy Strips nationwide by May 5, 2025. You’ll be able to purchase them in 3- or 4-piece counts accompanied by one or two Creamy Chili Dip sauces. You can also switch out the Creamy Chili Dip for your regular McDonald’s sauces.

No rush, because McCrispy Strips are a permanent menu item—the first in over four years.

Related:

• Sabrina Carpenter Is Waiting to Eat McDonald’s Until This Happens
• This Is the Best McDonald’s Breakfast Sandwich Ever
• I Tried a McDonald’s Hash Brown McFlurry Sandwich, and It Did Not Go According to Plan

The post McDonald’s Just Dropped McCrispy Strips—Here’s Everything We Know appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What is the mango ice cream?

Officially known as Propitious mango ice cream, this Chinese confection is as photogenic as it is tasty, which might explain why it’s taken off on TikTok.

Don’t imagine a freezer-burnt pop like the ones you bought from the ice cream truck. Instead, picture a work of art: bright yellow-orange and mango-shaped ice cream, packaged in a colorful box.

Pop open the plastic to grasp the pop by its handle. Then, take a bite—the colorful exterior is a thin white chocolate shell, which gently crunches under your teeth. Inside is super-soft, thick, mango ice cream.

@deannawoo There’s a MANGO version of the viral peach ice cream. I’ve been looking for this for over a year! I finally found it!! #icecream#viralfood#asiansnacks#asianfood#dessert#richmond#mangoicecream ♬ Seven (feat. Latto) – Clean Ver. – Jung Kook & Latto

TikTok influencers rave that the hard-to-find treat is reminiscent of mochi ice cream, with a texture that’s “really soft and super creamy.”

The same company also makes peach and lemon versions of the ice cream, all of which have surged in popularity on TikTok. Some grocery stores have had to limit the number of ice pops each customer can buy!

Where do I find it?

The treat is widely available at Asian grocery stores, such as H Mart, 99 Ranch and Dragon Star Foods. It comes in 2-packs, selling for about $8 to $10 per box. That’s a much lower price point than the viral $19 Erewhon strawberry, so we may just give it a try!

Related:

• Refreshing Ice Pops to Make This Summer
• Unique Ice Cream Flavors You Haven’t Tried Yet
• Our Best Mango Recipes

The post The Internet Is Obsessed with Mango Ice Cream Pops—Here’s Where to Find Them appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Before I can welcome my feathered friends, I need a chicken coop. And while I could build my own, I lack the tools. Plus, since I live in a somewhat rural area with plenty of predators like coyotes and hawks, safety is top of mind.

That’s why I was so excited to find Omlet chicken coops. While pricey, these smart enclosures are loaded with features for ultimate peace of mind. Here’s what you need to know.

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Omlet Chicken Coops

If you're looking to get backyard chickens, an Omlet coop is a great option. Eglu enclosures are available in a variety of sizes and with plenty of smart features.

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What is an Omlet chicken coop?

Omlet makes several chicken coops—aptly named “Eglus”—in a variety of sizes that hold between three and 10 hens. Choose from the Eglu Pro, Eglu Cube, Eglu Go or Eglu Go Up.

Plastic Construction

All Eglu coops are made of durable plastic that is incredibly simple to clean: Just hose it down and sanitize. The smooth plastic gives mites zero space to hide. And there’s even a slide-out tray for droppings so you can address icky tasks with ease.

“Keeping a coop clean is essential for healthy hens,” says Senior Editor Lara Eucalano, who has had a backyard flock for five years. “My current coop, which is made of cedar, requires a lot of annual maintenance. I’d much rather have a plastic coop that I can hose out as needed!”

The plastic also helps keep your chickens comfy. A combination of twin-wall insulation and optimized insulation ensures the plastic enclosure doesn’t get too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter.

Add-On Features

When designing your Eglu coop, you’ll find an option to add on a 6-, 9- or 12-foot chicken run. These wire enclosures give your birds plenty of space to explore safely. The runs are made of heavy-duty steel weld mesh with an anti-tunnel skirt. (AKA, no chickens can dig out, and no predators can dig in.) All Eglus are compatible without a run, too, for free-range flocks.

You can also upgrade to a smart automatic coop door that lets the birds out in the morning and locks up at night. It connects to Wi-Fi and is easy to monitor via the Omlet app on your phone.

“I don’t want to exaggerate, but my life changed when I added an automatic door to my coop,” Lara says. “I used to have to wake up at 5:30 in the morning to let the hens out or risk having them wake up my neighbors with demanding clucks. Now I can sleep in on weekends, and the chickens aren’t grumpy at me. (Truly, they would look so mad if I didn’t let them out until 8:30.)”

You can also opt to add wheels and handles to your coop, making it easy to transport around your yard. This allows the chickens access to fresh grass every day.

Predator Protection

Failing to safe-proof your enclosure is the top chicken coop mistake—and it can have deadly consequences. “The first thing I look at is whether a coop can keep predators out,” says Lara. “Predators will dig beneath the sides of the coop, so I want wire mesh that goes at least six inches into the ground for extra protection. Raccoons are surprisingly dexterous, so I want two-step locks to keep them out.”

While no chicken coop is 100% predator-proof, Eglu coops come pretty darn close. The ultra-strong plastic, two-step locks and tightly wrapped mesh/skirting on the runs work to keep hawks, raccoons and other animals at bay.

Where to Buy an Omlet Chicken Coop

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Omlet Chicken Coops

With four sizes, a variety of runs and endless accessories, there's an Omlet coop for every backyard flock!

Shop on Omlet

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Sold on an Omlet chicken coop? Me, too. You can order one directly from the brand’s website or Amazon. Prices run the gamut, starting at $549 for a no-frills Eglu Go and going up to $4,000+ for a tricked-out Eglu Pro with a 12-foot run.

Each Omlet chicken coop comes with a 10-year warranty and is designed for lifetime use. Plus, parts are replaceable.

The post Thinking About Getting Chickens? This Smart Omlet Coop Will Help Keep Your Flock Safe appeared first on Taste Recipes.

When I heard about Stasher silicone stretch lids, my interest was piqued. A no-waste, no-hassle alternative to wrestling with a sheet of plastic wrap? Sign me up! After testing them for a month, here’s what I thought of Stasher’s newest innovation in food storage.

EMILY WAY FOR TASTE OF HOME

We Tried It

Stasher Silicone Stretch Lids

Kick plastic waste to the curb with these airtight, reusable stretch lids from Stasher.

$19.99 at Stasher

$19.99 at Amazon

What are Stasher silicone stretch lids?

Stasher made it’s big debut on Shark Tank with their reusable silicone bags, which replace traditional disposable zipper bags. Since then, the brand has explored new ways to reduce plastic waste while keeping food mess- and spoilage-free.

Enter: Stasher silicone stretch lids. These thin silicone circles have a lip that stretches directly over bowls, pans, opened cans and even the cut edge of fruit halves. Like plastic wrap, they prevent leftovers from losing freshness and drying out, with the added bonus of an airtight seal for extra insurance. Stasher silicone stretch lids come in a variety of sizes that always ensure a perfect fit.

@stasherbag That’s a wrap on plastic wrap! With our new Stretch Lids, you have the ability to securely seal around virtually any sized object or material — no waste, no hassle. Here’s why you’ll love them: ✅ Four sizes to fit everything from jars to mixing bowls ✅ Tighter than the rest (go ahead, flip it!) ✅ Seals bowls, plates & even half-cut produce ✅ Reusable, durable & dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe ✅ Packaged in a premium, dual-purpose package that doubles as in-drawer storage One simple swap = countless possibilities. Fresher food, with less plastic waste—now that’s a perfect fit. #lifewithlessplastic ♬ original sound – Stasher

How We Tested Them

I received the Stasher lids in March 2025 and have tested them for roughly a month. In that time I’ve used them consistently, and they’re still in great shape. Almost immediately after unboxing the lids I was already trialing their strength by stretching them and wobbling them around—they’re so pleasantly pliable!

My first test was a leftover salad. Instead of emptying the salad into a plastic baggie like usual, I simply pulled the largest Stasher lid over my salad bowl. Easy peasy. The lids have a nice amount of stretch to them while still hugging the edges of the bowl tightly. I could even flip the bowl over without any salad spilling out—impressive!

Stasher advertises that the lids also work on half-cut produce. I cut an apple in half and stretched the smallest lid over the cut side, then left it in the fridge overnight. While my apple did oxidize a bit and turn ever so slightly brown, I was impressed with how moist the cut edge remained—the airtight seal ensured it didn’t dry out or significantly discolor.

Next, I popped the second smallest lid onto a ceramic bowl filled with hot dog chili sauce and left it in the fridge overnight. Using plastic wrap tends to allow food smells to escape into the fridge, especially with fragrant food like chili. Not this time, though! The next day, my fridge smelled nice and clean, and the chili was kept fresh.

To test its microwave compatibility, I kept the lid on as I reheated the chili for a minute in my microwave. Not only did it prevent splatters, but it also helped the chili reheat a touch faster by trapping in steam. Upon peeling off the lid, it didn’t feel sticky or otherwise affected by the heat. Win! Stasher also claims the lids are oven safe up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

My final test was the dishwasher. With the microwave being such a success, I had high hopes for the lids as I ran them through my dishwasher on the top rack. As expected, they emerged intact and sparkling. I’d like to see plastic wrap try that!

In the time I’ve had them, I’ve used the lids on nearly every bowl, jar, cup and can in my kitchen. The four sizes in the variety pack really do ensure that there’s a Stasher lid that fits almost any circular container I can throw at it. Consider me a silicone lid convert!

Pros

• Creates an airtight seal
• Zero plastic waste
• Variety of sizes, including 9, 6.5, 4.5 and 2.5-inch circles
• Dishwasher-, oven-, freezer- and microwave-safe
• Made from food-grade silicone
• Free from lead, latex, BPA and BPS

Cons

• Only available as circles.

Final Verdict

It brings me endless joy that I can officially cut pricey plastic wrap from my life once and for all. These silicone stretch lids are now a kitchen essential. Not only do they take up very little room in a drawer or cupboard, but they also easily store away directly in the box they came in. While I wish there were square options for brownie pans and other non-circular containers, I can always invest in a Brownie Buddy until Stasher introduces additional shapes and sizes.

Where to Buy Stasher Silicone Stretch Lids

EMILY WAY FOR TASTE OF HOME

We Tried It

Stasher Silicone Stretch Lids

Wrap up everything from half an apple to last night's leftovers with these genius reusable silicone stretch lids.

$19.99 at Stasher

$19.99 at Amazon

Stasher silicone stretch lids are available on both the Stasher website and Amazon. You can snag them in a variety pack that includes four different sizes, a pack of three small lids or a pack of three large lids. Those that also want to try out Stasher’s reusable zipper bags can also splurge on a 10-piece pack, which includes a sampling of both products.

FAQ

Do silicone lids have BPA?

No, Stasher silicone lids do not contain lead, latex, BPA or BPS.

Are silicone lids better than plastic lids?

Silicone lids are typically more flexible, stronger and longer-lasting than traditional plastic lids. They’re also typically dishwasher-, oven-, freezer- and microwave-safe, whereas plastic lids can warp or melt.

How long do silicone lids last?

With proper care, silicone lids can last through years of regular use.

The post These Silicone Lids Stretch to Any Size—And Keep Leftovers Fresh for Days appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Recently, we’ve heard whispers of a competitor on the scene. There’s another peanut butter and chocolate combo that’s coming for Reese’s top spot. It’s none other than Skippy with its new PB Bunnies, so I had to do a full candy comparison.

How do Skippy PB Bunnies compare to Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs?

To be completely, truly, absolutely honest—there’s really no competition. Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs drilled the Skippy PB Bunnies into the ground. As excited as I was to give Skippy the old college try, it lacked substance compared to its rival.

What we love about Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs is the ratio of peanut butter to chocolate. Sweet chocolate thinly coats the outside, containing everything in a neat package without overpowering the taste of the final product.

Some argue that each Reese’s shape contributes differently to its peanut butter-to-chocolate ratio, making certain shapes taste better than others. I personally think the Reese’s Egg is a thoroughly developed feat and a top Easter candy option. It hits the creamy, fluffy, sugary and chocolaty marks in just the right amounts.

So, what of the Skippy PB Bunnies? Let me start with this. Even though we’re close to Easter weekend, I had to search high and low at three different Walmart stores. (The Bunnies are currently only available at Walmart.) I finally got a hold of a lonely, out-of-place bag. It was $2 for a 1.05-ounce bag with three pieces, while Reese’s offers a 9.6-ounce package of its eggs for $4.48.

I overlooked the price in hopes of a phenomenal product. I was so disappointed that I had to abandon the bag, unfinished.

The Bunnies had a much harder chocolate on the outside with clear-cut details. Cute! Then I took one bite and tasted nothing but chocolate. I mean it. Shocked, I looked at the cross-section and found an empty shell of chocolate. Just a whisper of Skippy peanut butter sat inside. I was devastated. I couldn’t even taste the peanut butter, let alone see it!

I opened another Bunny to make sure, but no luck. The chocolate was not great and didn’t have the same flavor as the Reese’s. While Skippy has always been one of the best peanut butter brands, it missed the mark by a mile on this one. Stick with Reese’s this Easter, folks. You’ll thank me for it.

The post Skippy Just Took on Reese’s Eggs with Its New Peanut Butter Bunnies—Which Is Better? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

My one non-negotiable? A rolling kitchen cart. These organization powerhouses provide an additional countertop and space to store cookbooks, appliances, serveware—you name it.

The best carts optimize storage while also adding an aesthetic touch. That’s why I was so excited to see this daring midnight blue cart at The Home Depot. Not only is it a showstopper, but right now, it’s deeply discounted. Here’s what you need to know about this limited-time deal.

On Sale

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Lowest Price in 30 days

Editor's Pick

Midnight Blue Rolling Kitchen Cart

Snag extra storage and meal prep space with this beautiful rolling cart. The dreamy midnight blue hue adds character and warmth to any kitchen.

608.6742% OFF$349 at The Home Depot

What is the Home Depot kitchen cart?

If you, too, could use some extra kitchen storage, look no further. The Home Depot kitchen cart has it all: three drawers, two cabinets, open shelves, a butcher block top and even a hanging towel bar. It has a modest footprint, measuring roughly 50 inches wide, 18 inches deep and 36 inches high. And like most flat-pack furniture, assembly is required.

I’m most smitten with this cart’s color. In recent years, kitchen design has started swapping stark whites and neutrals for pops of color. (Butter yellow, anyone?) And this moody midnight blue is a match for most aesthetics, from transitional to country.

The cart in my kitchen holds odds-and-ends appliances, like a stand mixer and Ninja Creami. But there’s no limit on what you can store in it. A coffee bar is a classic option with space for a coffeemaker, jars of your favorite beans and mugs. You could also make it an entertaining cart that stashes linens, platters and cake stands. Heck, it even works as extra pantry storage, keeping canned goods, spices and snacks organized.

Where to Buy

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Editor's Pick

Midnight Blue Rolling Kitchen Cart

Snag extra storage and meal prep space with this beautiful rolling cart. The dreamy midnight blue hue adds character and warmth to any kitchen.

608.6742% OFF$349 at The Home Depot

No matter the use, now is the best time to buy. During Spring Black Friday, this cart is just $349 at The Home Depot. It’s available as a Special Buy, and you’ll save 43% off the original price.

The post Get Organized with This Stunning Midnight Kitchen Cart—Right Now It’s 43% Off! appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Enter Gardyn, a simple solution to starting your own at-home garden. Grow herbs, greens, veggies, flowers—you name it. Gardyn offers indoor systems that take care of everything in two square feet of space (or less). Here’s everything you need to know.

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Editor's Pick

Gardyn

With Gardyn, you're one step closer to eating fresh herbs and veggies at home all year round.

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What is Gardyn?

Gardyn’s primary product is its indoor hydroponic garden systems, which use smart technology to grow organic plants in small spaces. You don’t need dirt or an outdoor garden bed to grow with Gardyn; even apartment dwellers can start their own garden inside without the mess.

The brand offers over 100 tasty plant varieties suitable for its garden systems, from tomatoes and strawberries to lavender and basil. You can even grow microgreens! Plus, the systems are self-watering, so you won’t have to remember to water plants, either.

Gardyn growing devices grow plants vertically without soil, allowing you to yield the most produce in the smallest footprint. Gardyn devices come in two sizes: a 16-plant system that takes up less than 1-1/2 square feet of space and a 30-plant system that takes up 2 square feet. Each system is outfitted with LED lights and cameras that monitor your crops 24/7, so you don’t have to.

Top Gardyn Products

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Gardyn Studio

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The Gardyn Studio is a 4-1/2-foot indoor growing system. It takes up less than 1-1/2 square feet of space in your kitchen, sunroom or wherever you decide to put it. The Studio grows 16 large plants. The device comes with a 16-plant starter set, plant food and a 30-day free trial of the Gardyn membership. (Don’t sweat about another subscription, though. You’ll have access and control of your Gardyn device through the app, with or without a membership.)

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Gardyn Home

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The Gardyn Home system is similar to the Gardyn Studio, but it’s about half a foot taller and wider and can hold 30 plants. Like the Studio, this device monitors your plants 24/7 with a camera. The Gardyn Home also comes with a 30-plant starter set, plant food and a free trial of the Gardyn membership. Both the Studio and Home come with two-year warranties.

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Gardyn Microgreens Complete Kit

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The Gardyn microgreens growing kit has everything you need to harvest microgreens, including a food-grade plastic white hydroponic nursery that accommodates 10 plants. Enjoy fresh arugula, lemon basil, green shiso and more. The nursery is 5×12 inches and comes with a humidity dome and 10 grow plates. With this kit, you’ll have ready-to-eat fresh microgreens in as little as one week.

Product Tester Sheri Kaz tried the microgreens kit and was impressed with the convenience and speedy growth!

Where to Buy

You can shop all our favorite Gardyn items directly from the brand’s site. The Gardyn Studio retails for $500, and the Gardyn Home retails for $900. The microgreens complete kit is $100. Plants and accessories are also available.

While pricey, we love Gardyn’s options for growing produce at home, regardless of space constraints, lighting and climate. Your own indoor garden is just a click away!

The post Say Hello to Gardyn—The Easiest Way to Grow Veggies, Flowers and Herbs Indoors appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Truly, this has been an emotional rollercoaster for everyone involved, especially people who love pickles just as much as they love Popeyes. I count myself as one of those, so I grabbed everything on this limited-time menu. Here’s what I thought.

Pickle Glaze Sandwich

Popeyes holds the crown for best chicken sandwich, and the chain somehow found a way to make the classic even better. Instead of just loading the darn thing with a handful of pickle chips and calling it a day, the creators of this pickle sammie employed a “zesty pickle-flavored glaze.” At first, I was pretty disappointed there weren’t more actual pickles on this sandwich, because I enjoy the textural contrast they provide as much as their flavor. One solitary pickle slice is not enough for a pickle-celebrating sandwich!

But, after I got about halfway through the Popeyes pickle glaze sandwich, I didn’t care as much about the shocking lack of legitimate pickles. The pickle-flavored glaze is, in fact, quite zesty and very, very good! Flecked with dill, it has a light, vinegary tang that pairs beautifully with the buttery brioche bun. You can get boneless wings tossed in this glaze, too, if you’re in the mood for nothing but chicken.

Fried Pickles

There are many styles of fried pickles, and all of them are valid. Popeyes’s version uses pickle chips, coating them in a thick, dense flour batter that cooks up extra crisp. Personally, I like a thinner batter and a thicker-cut pickle, but that didn’t stop me from inhaling these. There is literally no such thing as a bad fried pickle.

Pickle Lemonade

Popeyes Pickle Lemonade tastes incredibly similar to lemon-lime Gatorade, which is my least favorite flavor of Gatorade. (Orange forever!) It’s not bad, though! I’d suggest sharing one with a friend so you can both say you at least tried it, and grab another drink to go with your meal. If you like it enough, you can always get another one for the road.

How long is the Pickle Menu at Popeyes?

The Popeyes Pickle Menu is available now at participating restaurants nationwide, but will only be around til May 5.

The post I Tried the Popeyes Pickle Menu—Here’s My Honest Review appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The Carrot Bar Cake Is Back at Costco

The dessert features three layers of decadent carrot cake topped with three layers of tangy cream cheese icing. A sprinkle of toasted walnuts decorates the top. It’s called a bar cake because the cake itself is a long, narrow rectangle. Serve it by slicing off pieces from one end. For the cleanest cut of cake, use a hot, serrated knife.

The cake has a combination of raisins, carrots and pineapple. This gives the cake density and moisture. Since the cake only has frosting between the layers and on top, it isn’t overly sweet and there is a perfect cake-to-frosting ratio. All in all, the bar cake is 2 pounds, 9 ounces of deliciousness selling for $18.99.

What People Are Saying

While this treat is something many Costco shoppers look forward to every year, there are some divisive elements with the Carrot Bar Cake. A quick scroll on TikTok and Reddit showed that people have very strong opinions on whether raisins belong in a carrot cake. Comments ranged everywhere from “Proper carrot cake does indeed have raisins” to “Raisins are rotten grapes. Keep them out of my cake.” Some folks didn’t love the fact that pineapple was also included in the cake batter.

Costco bakery items tend to be on the larger side, but even if you don’t finish all of this dessert, there are solutions. Several commenters noted they like to freeze individual servings for later when the cake has been phased out for the season. One fan said, “See, what you do is, you buy it, bring it home, slice it into individual servings that you put into Ziploc freezer bags, and you put those in the freezer. From time to time, you have a single serving of this absolutely decadent cake. Also works exceptionally well with tuxedo cake.”

If you aren’t convinced the Carrot Bar Cake is for you, maybe this comment straight from a Costco bakery employee might sway your decision. They said, “We just started it today in my Costco. It’s really good, not super sweet. You can see the carrot bits in it. Very few things I get from my bakery, but I’d buy this.”

The post The Costco Bakery Just Dropped the One Dessert I Wait All Year For appeared first on Taste Recipes.

This is why I was so thrilled to have Pop-Tarts confirm an announcement that was leaked weeks ago. Two legendary Girl Scout Cookie flavors have been transformed into Pop-Tarts, and I could not be more over the moon about this. Scout’s honor.

What Girl Scout Cookies will be turned into Pop-Tarts?

With all the incredible Girl Scout Cookie flavors, I imagine the Pop-Tarts boardroom was abundant with opinions about what should be chosen. It’s no surprise that the brand chose two of the most popular cookie flavors: Thin Mint and Samoas/Caramel deLites.

Here’s what we know about ’em:

• Pop-Tarts x Girl Scouts Thin Mints: This Pop-Tart has a cocoa-flavored pastry crust filled with sweet mint chocolate flavoring and a smooth chocolate frosted top. I imagine this Pop-Tart will mimic the legendary flavor of Thin Mints with ease. I recommend popping a pastry in the freezer for a few hours before chowing down.
• Pop-Tarts x Girl Scouts Coconut Caramel: This new experience features a filling made with toasted coconut, caramelized sugar and subtle chocolate flavor. It’s topped with a smooth blend of chocolate and caramel frosting and has that signature Pop-Tart swirl. This cookie doesn’t sport an official Girl Scout Cookie name since it’s both a Samoa and a Caramel deLite. Coconut and caramel are a legendary flavor combo, and I will be stocking my shelves with this one ASAP.

I secretly hoped for a peanut butter Pop-Tart, but my dream didn’t come true—at least not for this collab.

When do Girl Scout Pop-Tarts drop?

Both flavors are set to drop in April 2025 at participating retailers nationwide. While prices will vary by retailer, you can grab an 8-count box for approximately $3.89, a 16-count box for $4.98 or a 32-count box for $8.49 at select club stores (like Costco and Sam’s). It’s safe to say these will be a bonkers hit, so grab ’em before they’re out of season!

The post Pop-Tarts Just Dropped the Girl Scout Cookie Flavors You’ve Been Waiting For appeared first on Taste Recipes.

This drop is loaded with Quencher tumblers in bold, sun-kissed hues and retro-inspired prints that bring resort vibes anywhere. (Yes, even to your desk!) Plus, they’re equally perfect for the upcoming summer months. Here’s everything you need to know about this lush new launch.

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Stanley Oasis Collection

Power your pickleball sessions and golf outings with the ultimate summer accessory: a new Quencher tumbler from the Stanley Oasis collection!

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What is the Stanley Oasis collection?

The Stanley Oasis collection is one of the biggest Stanley drops we’ve seen. While many launches include just a single pattern or colorway in select styles, Oasis has a little something for everyone.

There are six key hues: Peach Whip, Butter, Cornflower, Terracotta, Royal Blue and Cream. Then, there are a number of patterns and mattes, like striking Cabana stripes and darling Sunflower prints. Finally, choose between a Flowstate tumbler with a straw (20, 30 or 40 ounces) and a ProTour tumbler with a leak-proof lid (30 or 40 ounces).

A handful of other items—like the beer pint, water jug, legendary bottle and can cooler cup (slim and everyday)—are also available in select Oasis colors.

Stanley Oasis Collection: Our Top Picks

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Peach Whip Cabana Gloss Flowstate Quencher

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Available in 20-, 30- or 40-ounce Flowstate Quencher sizes, this strawed tumbler is summer’s ideal companion. The perky, pretty stripes fit in at the tennis court, farmers market and beyond. We love the juicy Peach Whip Cabana color, but you can also find the stripes in Cornflower and Butter. (Or an exclusive Emerald if you’re shopping at Dick’s Sporting Goods.)

Content Director and Florida native Nicole Doster got a sneak peek of this tumbler and loved the glossy finish. “It’s perfect for weekend trips to the beach,” says Nicole. “The glossy striped design of this tumbler is stunning. I’ve already received compliments on it!”

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Butter Sunflower Flowstate Quencher

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Channel spring’s flower power with another Flowstate Quencher. The playful Butter Sunflower cup, available in 20-, 30- or 40-ounce sizes, gives off midcentury modern vibes. It’s also available in the Peach Whip hue.

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Cornflower Gloss ProTour Quencher

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The ProTour Quenchers made waves when they launched in December 2024. And the dazzling Cornflower Gloss colorway will be your BFF at the pool all. summer. long. Thanks to the leak-proof lid, you can just toss it in your beach bag and go. Pick one up in 30- or 40-ounce sizes.

Where to Buy the Stanley Oasis Collection

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Stanley Oasis Collection

Preppy stripes! Bright colors! Pretty flower patterns! There's a LOT to love about the new Stanley Oasis collection.

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You can find the entire Stanley Oasis collection on the brand’s website. Everything drops on Tuesday, April 1, at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET. Like all Stanley launches, we expect this collection will sell out quickly, so act fast if you have your heart set on a specific item.

Select styles and colors are also available at Dick’s Sporting Goods, including an exclusive Emerald Cabana cup.

The post The Stanley Oasis Collection Is Here—And It’s Perfect for Spring Break appeared first on Taste Recipes.

It may or may not be a “healthy” breakfast, but Cinnamon Toast Crunch is delicious at any time of day. In fact, I often eat a bowl (or two) for dessert because, as an adult, you’re allowed to eat cereal whenever you wish.

It’s not confined to breakfast—and now it’s breaking free of the bowl altogether to transform into Hershey’s Kisses.

What do Cinnamon Toast Crunch Hershey’s Kisses taste like?

In a press release, Hershey’s says these Kisses are what happens “when smooth white creme meets swirls of cinnamon sugar and graham-flavored cookie bits.” I expect this candy to have all the creamy, crispy and cinnamon-sugary goodness of a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch with whole milk.

This means that Kisses have left milk chocolate behind and moved on to its next era, which appears to be white chocolate and unexpected crossovers. (Yes, Butterbeer Kisses, I’m talking about you.)

When do Cinnamon Toast Crunch Kisses drop?

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Kisses are available right this very second in 9-ounce bags wherever Hershey’s sells its “share size” bags of candy. No FOMO when you YOLO, and that includes cereal-flavored candy.

The post Hershey’s Just Turned Cinnamon Toast Crunch into Kisses, and We Need a Bag ASAP appeared first on Taste Recipes.

5. Cheetos XXtra Flamin’ Hot

Unlike regular Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, which already have more than enough heat to be enjoyable, XXtra Flamin’ Hot has two whole Xs worth of extra heat. Perhaps at single X levels of spice, you can still taste the true essence of Cheetos. But when the second X is added, the concept of cheese flavoring becomes irrelevant, as does flavor in general.

The only thing Cheetos XXtra Flamin’ Hot cares to do is burn your delicate tongue, which could be fun if you like that sort of thing. I wouldn’t use these for casual snacking, but they’re great as a crunchy topping for tacos, cheesy casseroles or anywhere else you can use them in a crouton-esque capacity, like this TikTok Cheeto salad.

4. Takis Fuego

Takis balance an aggressive burn with equally aggressive amounts of salt and citric acid, making them a difficult chip to eat mindlessly. This is a good thing, as I consume far too many chips mindlessly, and that’s pretty disrespectful to chips!

These Takis didn’t come into the world for me not to notice them; they came to be fabulous and to be adored. Takis can make your eyes water, your mouth pucker and your tongue dry up all in one bite, and by golly, that’s impressive.

I’m also a huge fan of their shape. Takis are a sturdy snack that can hold up to the rigors of dips of all sorts, no matter how thick or thin they may be.

3. Doritos Tapatio

The hot sauce-flavored Doritos are actually milder than the brand’s Flamin’ Hot chips and far more flavorful. If you’re a fan of Tapatio to begin with, you’ll lose your mind over these. Tapatio Doritos have a strong, well-developed chile flavor with a hint of smoke and none of the hot sauce’s vinegar tang, letting you appreciate the nuances of Tapatio in a brand-new dimension. If you must dip these Doritos, use something simple, like sour cream.

2. Cheetos Flamin’ Hot

I’m a big fan of regular Cheetos, so what I appreciate most about the Flamin’ Hot version is that it doesn’t stray too far from the original. Yes, it brings the heat, but not so much so that you can’t taste any cheese, which is the entire point of eating a Cheeto in the first place. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are great for snacking straight out of the bag, preferably with an ice-cold beverage at hand.

1. Doritos Flamin’ Hot Nacho Cheese

I worried that giving Doritos’ signature nacho cheese flavor the Flamin’ Hot treatment would cover everything that’s so good about the original with a blanket of artificially flavored fire. Luckily, whoever is driving the Doritos bus knows what they’re doing!

The Flamin’ Hot chips still taste like the Doritos we love, but with enough of a kick to make you wince at first bite. Perfect for enjoying with dip, or even better, used as the base for nacho recipes that’ll knock your socks off.

The post I Taste-Tested Hot Chips from Takis, Doritos and Cheetos—Here’s the Clear Winner appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The latest addition to the Ninja outdoor lineup is the all-new FlexFlame outdoor cooking system. It’s a 5-in-1 cooker that can grill, smoke, roast, griddle, and make pizza. Yes, you read that correctly. It uses propane fuel like a traditional gas grill or Blackstone griddle. But the FlexFlame has added features you won’t find in most models, like a special compartment that burns pellets for added smoky flavor.

The new FlexFlame looks seriously impressive. Here’s what we know about the new Ninja grill—just in time for patio season.

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Ninja FlexFlame Propane Grill and Outdoor Cooking System

A new 5-in-1 outdoor grill that lets you grill, smoke, roast, griddle and make pizza—all in one patio appliance!

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What is the Ninja FlexFlame grill?

The Ninja FlexFlame has been in the works for two years. It aims to streamline the outdoor cooking experience by integrating five popular cooking methods into one unit.

If you’ve gone back and forth weighing the pros and cons of a gas grill vs. a pellet grill, you won’t have to choose with this model—it uses both! You won’t have to decide between a new grill and an outdoor pizza oven, either. The FlexFlame can bake pies under the same hood that grills burgers and smokes chicken.

The FlexFlame—in your choice of silver or black—uses Ninja’s CyclonicHeat-iQ technology. This tech integrates convection airflow with propane flame control and woodfire machinery. That means you can grill, smoke and roast with ease.

The grill is available alone or with the FlexFlame cooking bundle. The latter includes Ninja grill accessories for whipping up pitmaster-worthy meals. The set includes Ninja’s premium half griddle, a 16-inch pizza stone, a perforated pizza peel and a roasting/smoking rack.

How It Works

The FlexFlame is designed like other gas grills, except it has a convection fan on the side to heat the grill faster—so fast it can preheat to 600 degrees Fahrenheit within seven minutes.

The new grilling system has a digital control panel that lets you choose which cooking function and temperature you want. You can dial in and maintain temperatures between 200 and 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Crank the dial to the “grill/pizza” setting, and set the temperature between 450 and 600 degrees Fahrenheit in five-degree increments. With the FlexFlame artisan pizza stone on the grill, you can make family-sized pies in five minutes.

The FlexFlame needs to be plugged into an outlet to power up. On the side of the grill, there’s a small, two-cup pellet burner that lets you infuse a hint of smoke into your food. You won’t actually be cooking with pellet fuel. Instead, the convection fan pushes pellet smoke into the grill to add woodfire flavor to your food.

If you’ve cooked with a propane grill before, you know that smoke tubes or wood chips can provide a smoky flavor. However, the FlexFlame’s cyclonic fan is designed to infuse more flavor than other methods by keeping pellet smoke circulating throughout the grill. This also means you can cold smoke with the FlexFlame by turning off the gas.

Swap out the grill plates for the FlexFlame griddle, and you’ve got a flat-top grill for smash burgers and breakfast. The rust-resistant carbon steel griddle plate delivers edge-to-edge heat and enough space to feed a hungry crowd.

The innovative gas grill’s added convection fan and pellet hopper box, paired with the interchangeable grill plates, griddles and pizza stone, are intended to make five different types of outdoor cooking easy—even for novice grillers.

Where to Buy the Ninja FlexFlame Outdoor Cooking System

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Ninja FlexFlame Propane Grill and Outdoor Cooking System

Ninja's new gas-pellet grill combo is also compatible with griddle and pizza stone accessories.

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The FlexFlame propane grill and outdoor cooking system is now available to shop on Ninja for $1,000. If you want to add accessories like the griddle top and pizza stone, you can buy the whole FlexFlame cooking bundle for $1,275. The bundle costs less than buying the accessories individually.

The post Ninja Just Launched the FlexFlame—And It Can Replace Your Grill, Pizza Oven and Griddle appeared first on Taste Recipes.

You know what I also love in every universe? Oreos. The brand is not afraid to rep some wild flavors. Lucky for us, Oreo has a beloved flavor returning for the summer. It’s called the S’mOreo, and I’m prepared to buy them all.

What is the S’mOreo?

This mashup is the thing of dreams. It’s built like a classic Oreo—with some delicious tweaks. Instead of one layer of white creme, this s’mores Oreo has two layers, one marshmallow and one chocolate. The two flavored cremes are sandwiched between graham-flavored cookies.

Don’t tell me you don’t love kicking your feet up by a bonfire with friends while roasting some ‘mallows. It’s a divine feeling. This Oreo flavor is that feeling in cookie form!

You can dip the S’mOreo in milk, but they’re also delectable on their own. Serve ’em up at barbecues, birthday parties or casual get-togethers. Just be careful if I’m around, ’cause I’ll eat every single one.

The S’mOreo originally debuted as a limited edition drop in 2015 and has since appeared three more times. It was officially rebranded from S’Mores Oreos to the “S’mOreo” in 2023.

How long will it be in stores?

The S’mOreo is set to drop on April 7, 2025 at retailers everywhere. It will also be on Oreo’s website while supplies last. Yes, sadly, all good things must come to an end, so this isn’t a permanent addition to the Oreo lineup. If you’re as committed of a s’mores fan as I am, I know you won’t miss this momentous occasion. Here’s to a s’mores-filled summer!

The post Oreo Just Confirmed the Return of This Beloved Summer Flavor appeared first on Taste Recipes.

So, as a longtime NutriBullet fan, I was pretty geeked when I was asked to test out the new NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ compact kitchen system. The new model is a 3-in-1 system with a personal blender cup, food processor and coffee grinder attachments that fit on one compact base. I tested all three attachments to give you the scoop on how it works.

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We Tried It

NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ Compact Kitchen System

This 3-in-1 compact kitchen system has impressive blending, coffee grinding and food processing capabilities.

$149.99 at NutriBullet

What is the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ compact kitchen system?

The all-new NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ operates on a single signature NutriBullet base. If you have an older NutriBullet, you’ll be surprised to find that this machine has a snazzy glow interface and suction cup bottom.

It also offers a blender with quieter power, a food processor for slicing and shredding and a grinder for coffee and spices. With 16 pieces, the NutriBullet set has almost everything you’ll need for any cooking task.

How We Tested It

I put the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ to work the night I opened it. As I said, I am a long-time fan of the original NutriBullet, which I’ve used to make personal smoothies for almost 10 years. I also bought the NutriBullet Baby and NutriBullet Baby Turbo Steamer when my daughter started eating purees, and I loved them even more than my tried-and-true original NutriBullet. Seriously, steaming and blending sweet potatoes had never been easier.

After opening the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+, I laid out all the parts. Here’s what’s included:

• 1200-watt motor base
• 32-ounce blending cup
• 24-ounce double-walled blending cup
• 2 to-go lids
• Rapid extractor blade
• Food processor with lid, base and food pusher
• Chopping blade
• Reversible slice/shred disc
• Coffee and spice grinder cup
• Grinder flat blade

Food Processor Attachment

After I washed the included parts (all cups, lids, and blades are top-rack dishwasher safe), I browsed some NutriBullet recipes for the most authentic testing experience. I was immediately intrigued by the arugula pistachio pesto, which seemed to be a good match for the food processor attachment. The roasted pistachios, arugula, garlic cloves and other ingredients were turned into a creamy pesto within seconds.

Within a few minutes of setting ingredients out on my counter, I was pouring pesto over freshly made orzo. My first attempt at the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ was a success. The processor was relatively quiet, too. Plus, the suction cups at the bottom of the motor base held it firmly in place on my countertop as the nuts were pulverized.

Best of all (albeit this is more of a personal win), my extremely picky one-year-old loved the fresh pesto and sat patiently in her highchair for the few minutes it took to make it. She dipped everything I put on her tray in the bright green pesto: win!

Coffee Grinder Attachment

The next morning, I used the coffee grinder attachment to grind whole coffee beans. Not expecting much from this attachment, I was blown away. I had previously been using an inexpensive grinder from Hamilton Beach, which did the job of grinding beans for my French press just fine. But the NutriBullet coffee grinder attachment turned whole coffee beans into ultra-fine grounds within seconds. I couldn’t believe it.

The grounds were perfect for my manual pour-over. However, I will say that NutriBullet grinds quickly, and I’m not sure I could stop it in time to achieve course grounds for a French press.

Blender Attachment

With my fresh ground coffee in hand, I used the third blade attachment to make a creamy coffee smoothie. Like any best blender, the rapid extractor blade handled a frozen banana, ice and other ingredients with zero issues, and the double-walled smoothie cup kept my smoothie cold for a good portion of the morning.

I also appreciated the to-go lid, which is designed like a shaker bottle lid. A straw would get lost in the cup, but I didn’t mind sipping straight from the lid’s opening.

Cord Management

So far, using all the attachments for different blending needs has been a success. However, there were a few things I didn’t love while testing the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+.

I found the 29.5-inch cord a bit short for my space. I tested the system on my kitchen island, which has an outlet underneath the countertop, and the cord is just long enough to go from the base, around the countertop and to the outlet. That said, the cord would be plenty long if I used one of the outlets on the wall underneath my kitchen cabinets to plug it in.

There’s also no cord management system on the base, so I find myself wrapping the cord around the outside of the base (as I did with my original NutriBullet). I had secretly hoped the new base would have a place in the bottom of the base to store the cord. No luck.

New Design

If you are familiar with older NutriBullet models, you’ll know that you twist and press down slightly on the attachments to turn on the motor. The new base on the Ultra Plus+ is slightly different. The attachments twist counterclockwise to lock into place (you’ll hear a click). Once secured, the control panel will light up. There are two touch buttons: a solid circle and a dashed circle. The first will run an automated blending cycle for 30 seconds, and the latter will pulse blend ingredients when held. (The pesto I made was completely blended in one cycle!)

As someone who has used an older NutriBullet for years, the new base design took some getting used to. I definitely thought I was doing it wrong at first. However, the new motor seems much faster than the older one I’d been using.

Capacity and Cleanup

If you often cook for a large family or group of people, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ probably won’t be big enough for your culinary endeavors. (The food processor attachment holds about 2 cups worth of ingredients.) Additionally, the compact design can’t handle hot or carbonated ingredients as they may over-pressurize and cause the attachments to separate from the motor base.

But if you’re looking for a quick, compact way to make dips, spreads, sauces, salsas, dressings, smoothies and other cold concoctions, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ is great.

Cleanup and storage proved easy, too. I disassembled all the parts and placed them on the top rack of the dishwasher to clean. I ran them on a delicate cycle, as the user guide says high heat may warp some of the parts.

Pros

• Compact, 3-in-1 design saves valuable kitchen space
• Replaces three common appliances: blender, food processor and coffee grinder
• Fast, powerful motor
• Sharp, titanium-coated stainless-steel blades
• Relatively quiet operation
• Suction cups on bottom of base keep it locked in place during use
• Top-rack dishwasher safe

Cons

• Poor cord management
• Small capacity
• Not compatible with hot or carbonated foods
• No small cup parts included

Final Verdict

It’s official, I’m a NutriBullet stan. To date, I’ve been impressed with the longevity and quality of the brand’s products, so I’m curious to see if the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ stands the test of time. (I plan on updating this review as time passes to let you know if any issues occur with the machine). For now, I like it a lot.

I use the compact food processor the most for assistance with quick weeknight meals, but I also reach for the coffee grinder attachment a lot more than I thought I would.

In short, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ works really, really well for what it is: a compact 3-in-1 kitchen blending tool. I appreciate the compact design of the base. It’s much easier to whip out than my Cuisinart food processor, which I love but takes up much more space and is a bit more work to use.

Where to Buy the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+

MARY HENN FOR TASTE OF HOME

We Tried It

NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ Compact Kitchen System

The signature compact blending system has a new base design and special attachments.

$149.99 at NutriBullet

As a new launch, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ kitchen system with the grinder and processor attachments is only available at NutriBullet. It retails for $199 and comes in five colors.

The post We Tried the New NutriBullet Ultra+, and It Replaces 3 Kitchen Appliances appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Enter: the Brownie Buddy. This genius solution lets you bake, cut and store bars right in the pan—and it actually works. I tested it on two separate rounds of brownies, and each batch yielded picture-perfect squares. Here’s everything you need to know.

KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME

We Tried It

Nordic Ware Brownie Buddy

For picture-perfect cuts and easy storage, give the new Brownie Buddy a try. It's a must-have for any home baker.

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What is the Brownie Buddy?

The Brownie Buddy comes from one of our favorite bakeware brands, Nordic Ware. It features three pieces: a 9-inch square aluminum pan, a cutter tool and a lid. The pan is oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and comes with a lifetime warranty.

To use, simply prep and bake your brownies or bars according to the recipe instructions, then let them cool for 30 minutes. Next, grab the cutter tool, place it in the pan and firmly press until it touches the bottom of the pan. Lift it out, and voila! Sixteen perfectly cut bars. To store, snap the lid directly on top of the pan.

How We Tested It

I tested the Brownie Buddy in March 2025.

Zucchini Brownies

First, I whipped up a batch of zucchini brownies. The extra moisture in these cake-like bars tends to make them extra sticky, so I was eager to see if the Brownie Buddy would cut through.

I started by removing the pan from its packaging and washing it thoroughly. Then, I prepped my batter and lined the pan with parchment paper. This is an optional step, but it makes clean-up a breeze. I sprinkled in chocolate chips for even more melty deliciousness and placed the pan in my preheated oven.

Once done, Nordic Ware recommends waiting 30 minutes before slicing. A tough task! I set a timer, and once it went off, grabbed the slicer tool. I lined it up over the pan, letting it gently rest atop the baked bars. Then, I applied firm pressure until I felt the cutter make contact with the bottom of the pan.

Now for the moment of truth—would the bars cling to the cutter, making a major mess? No! In fact, the cutter lifted away effortlessly. A few of the cut squares needed to be gently pressed back down, but I was left with a perfectly cut pan of brownies. Even better, I didn’t need to grab foil or transfer them to a container. With a snap of the lid, I was good to go.

Boxed Brownies

After a successful test with homemade brownies, I also had to try a boxed version. I picked up my go-to Bob’s Red Mill brownie mix, prepped the pan and followed the instructions for the batter. (Pro tip: Substitute the water for coffee or espresso—it enhances the chocolate flavor.)

After baking, this batch had that signature crackly (and sticky!) brownie top. I let them cool for 30 minutes, then pressed in and lifted up the cutter. Another success! I was once again shocked that it worked so well. Seriously, there were no crumbs or jagged edges in sight.

The brownie cutter did have some chocolaty goo residue, which was a little annoying to wash off, but my overall experience with the Brownie Buddy was a complete success. I’m eager to try even more treats, like lemon bars or magic bars. You can also use it for savory items, like cornbread or baked egg dishes.

Pros

• All-in-one solution for baking, cutting and storing bars
• Easy to use
• Lifetime warranty
• Made in the U.S.

Cons

• Divider is a little tricky to clean

Final Verdict

Whether you have a bake sale coming up or just like to serve perfectly cut bars, the Nordic Ware Brownie Buddy is any home baker’s BFF. It’s simple to use, made with quality materials and works as advertised. I was initially skeptical that the cutter would slice through gooey brownies, but it did—and with ease. I plan on ordering a few to give as housewarming gifts or to send to friends in need of a sweet pick-me-up.

Where To Buy the Brownie Buddy

KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME

We Tried It

Nordic Ware Brownie Buddy

If you take bars and brownies to gatherings, potlucks or bake sales, this all-in-one Brownie Buddy makes cutting and serving a breeze.

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Pick up the Brownie Buddy at major retailers, including Walmart and Target. It retails for $30, which, in my opinion, is a steal for a 3-piece set with a lifetime warranty.

The post We Tried the Brownie Buddy—And It Makes Cutting, Storing and Serving Bars a Breeze appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Immediately, I thought about the poor blocks of cheddar and part-skim mozzarella in my fridge, either half dried out or suffocating in plastic wrap. Oops.

I used her suggestion, but containers started piling up in my fridge. Between an excess of plastic wrap waste and an abundance of containers stacked in my fridge, I felt like I was losing—against cheese.

Then one day, “Cheese Huggers” came across my desk. Tillamook, one of my favorite cheese brands, teamed up with a company called Food Huggers to make something that solved my cheese storage situation.

What are Cheese Huggers?

Tillamook’s Cheese Huggers are reusable covers made from food-grade silicone. To use one, press the cut side of a block of cheese into the Cheese Hugger. The silicone creates a tight seal around the cheese, keeping it fresher, longer.

I was so excited to try it. Would this little cover really keep my cheese fresh and get all those containers out of my fridge?

The answer was yes; it worked! I’ve had it for weeks now and have tried it on blocks of feta, cheddar and Gruyere (my favorite!). They all stayed nice and fresh for my cheese boards and cheese recipes. When I’m done with a block of cheese, I toss the Cheese Hugger into the silverware holder in my dishwasher. Easy!

There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, you obviously can’t use Cheese Huggers to store shredded cheese. Second, the Cheese Huggers do not fit around every cheese shape, only rectangular blocks. The measurements on Tillamook’s website read that the opening fits 1″ x 2 1/8″ to 1″ x 2 1/2″.

You should also learn from my mistake: The first time I used the Huggers, I cut the cheese’s packaging way too far up the block, which kept some of my cheese exposed in the fridge where the Hugger couldn’t reach, drying it out. However, the part of the cheese that was snugged into the Hugger was as fresh as the day I opened it! After that, I made sure not to cut too high up on the cheese’s packaging. I even tuck the excess packaging into the Hugger to protect the whole block.

Where can I find a Cheese Hugger?

Look for Cheese Huggers on Tillamook’s website. Each package is $10 and comes with two Cheese Huggers. You can also buy non-branded Cheese Huggers on Food Hugger’s website. Each package has four Huggers in different sizes for $14.99.

The post I Found a Quick $10 Fix to Keep My Cheese Fresh for Weeks appeared first on Taste Recipes.

I get nostalgic just looking at a slice because Funfetti is as delicious as it is colorful. It’s the best confetti cake mix for a reason!

Pillsbury has kept it classic for a while, but recently, the brand posted some intriguing Funfetti images on its Instagram. Now, they’ve officially come out with a brand-new Funfetti mix, and we can’t wait to start baking.

What is the new Funfetti cake mix?

It’s everything you know and love about Funfetti with a crunchy, colorful twist—loads and loads of sprinkles. Funfetti has decided to follow the sprinkle cake trend and officially gift us with mountains of sprinkles to decorate our cakes. You’ll find stars, pearls, rainbow and sequin sprinkles inside. As if Funfetti wasn’t already the prettiest cake on the market.

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Named Funfetti Celebrations, this cake mix is truly the birthday cake of your dreams. Same tasty vanilla cake with hints of color inside with a flashy new outside. Pillsbury saw the fun sprinkle cakes hitting the internet and the not-so-fun price tag. They wanted to give people the option to create a sprinkle cake all their own at a fraction of the price. We love you, Pillsbury!

The only thing missing from the box is the frosting, but that’s an easy fix. Head further down the aisle for a good store-bought frosting.

Where do I find it?

Funfetti Celebrations is currently only available at Walmart (along with the regular Funfetti mix), but should hit other retailers soon. Make sure to grab a box for your next birthday. You’re never too old to celebrate with style.

The post Pillsbury Just Announced a Big Change to Its Most Iconic Cake Mix appeared first on Taste Recipes.

On the latest Inside Trader Joe’s podcast epsiode, the chain revealed a new Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter in collaboration with Hardywood Park Craft Brewery.

What is the Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter?

Hardywood is a Virginia-based craft brewer. TJ’s has previously partnered with them on other treat-inspired releases, like its Speculoos Cookie Butter Beer and Joe-Joe’s Chocolate Vanilla Creme Stout.

On Inside Trader Joe’s, VP of marketing Tara Miller says the new porter is an “homage” to Trader Joe’s incredibly popular Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.

Matt Sloan, the company’s “culture and innovation guy,” described the porter as “bold” and “intense” with an ABV of 9.2%. It has notes of chocolate, a bit of coffee and—of course—peanut butter. The beer, he added, is more of a dessert drink than something you’d enjoy with dinner.

The new beer has reportedly been a hit with those who have had a taste. And how can it not be when alcohol is one of the things you should always buy at TJ’s! During a tasting panel, “the whole group’s hands shot up in yes votes almost immediately,” Miller said on the podcast.

“It does taste as good as it sounds,” she added. We’ll ring the bell for that!

How long will it be at Trader Joe’s?

Like any other seasonal Trader Joe’s offering, it’s difficult to predict exactly how long the Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter will be available in stores. If you want a taste, you should try to stop in sooner rather than later. But, given that the porter is part of the chain’s spring lineup, we hope that it will stick around for at least a couple months.

The post Trader Joe’s Fans Can’t Believe How Perfect This Brand-New Find Is appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The staple chicken sandwich is a perennial top ranker in fast-food chicken sandwich taste tests. The seasonal and limited edition offerings are strong, too, and fans have been known to shed a tear when beloved menu items disappear.

The Smokehouse BBQ Bacon Sandwich dropped off the menu in 2022, but Chick-fil-A just confirmed its return!

What’s on the Chick-fil-A Smokehouse BBQ sandwich?

Expect a juicy grilled chicken filet topped with crispy brown sugar and black pepper bacon, Colby Jack cheese, lettuce and a savory, smoky barbecue sauce. The bun will be fluffy, toasted and buttery, so this truly is the sandwich of dreams.

When this sandwich was on the menu three years ago, it only came with the original breaded chicken filet. This time around, though, customers to order a spicy breaded chicken filet or grilled chicken filet! I’m an absolute sucker for the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, so you know I’ll be sampling this bad boy with spicy chick. Thank you for blessing us, Chick-fil-A. You can bet it will be my pleasure to chow down on this sandwich.

When does the spring menu drop?

The Smokehouse BBQ Sandwich drops on March 17, 2025. To complete the spring menu, Chick-fil-A also has a new line of Pineapple Dragonfruit beverages. You can order Pineapple Dragonfruit mixed with regular lemonade, Frosted Lemonade, iced tea and Sunjoy (aka 50-50 ice tea and lemonade). The new items will be available at participating locations but only for a “limited time,” according to Chick-fil-A.

The post Chick-fil-A Just Brought Back a Sandwich Fans Haven’t Seen in Years appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What is Chipotle Honey Chicken?

The Chipotle Honey Chicken starts as a whole chicken marinated in a secret recipe, though it’s no secret that the recipe has plenty of pureed chipotle peppers in adobo. It’s seasoned with a blend of Mexican spices before being tossed on the grill. When the chicken is almost fully cooked, it’s drizzled with wildflower honey, which caramelizes slightly over the hot flames, balancing all that peppery heat with a touch of sweetness. Finally, it’s sliced and chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Is the Chipotle Honey Chicken good?

Chipotle’s new Chipotle Honey Chicken is a welcome addition to the menu, even if it’s only for a limited time. There’s nothing surprising about this, since you really can’t go wrong with chicken that’s smoky, spicy and sweet.

However, to get the most out of this extra-special offering, you should know the best way to enjoy it in the context of Chipotle.

As good as the Chipotle Honey Chicken is, you won’t be able to taste what makes it great if it’s buried beneath a ton of other flavors, particularly spicy ones. If you order this in a burrito or a bowl, I would skip the salsas and guac, and stick with milder accompaniments like veggies, beans and cheese.

But the best way to enjoy it, in my highly professional opinion, is in a quesadilla, where it only has to share the stage with cheese. It even comes with a side of Chipotle Honey Vinaigrette to dial up the flavor even further. I suggest adding a little sour cream, but as always, when ordering Chipotle, follow your heart.

You won’t see quesadillas on Chipotle’s in-store or drive-thru menu—it’s a digital-only item. You have to download the Chipotle app or visit the company website to order one.

How long is the Chipotle Honey Chicken at Chipotle?

The Chipotle Honey Chicken will only be on the menu for a limited time. Chipotle rewards members have access starting March 6, and all other diners will be able to order starting March 7.

Once it’s gone, I’ll be tirelessly trying to recreate this Chipotle chicken at home.

The post I Tried Chipotle’s New Chipotle Honey Chicken, and Wow, Just Wow appeared first on Taste Recipes.

You might be surprised to learn that soda shares space on the shelf with Spindrift sparkling water. Spindrift is the only flavored sparkling water we buy these days. It’s replaced La Croix in our shopping cart, as we prefer Spindrift’s flavors (especially grapefruit) and love that it uses actual fruit.

I was thrilled when Spindrift released a line of soda that, like its water, features real fruit. The line has five flavors: Shirley Temple, Concord Freeze, Strawberry Shortcake, Ginger Ale and Orange Cream Float. Every one of them sounds scrumptious!

Spindrift Soda Review

It didn’t take long for my excitement to fizzle. The second I started my taste test, I knew something was up.

Strawberry Shortcake

The very first Spindrift soda I tried, Strawberry Shortcake, sounded like it would meld fruity strawberry and sweet vanilla. It even poured out in a pretty pink color. But then, I tasted it. My first thought was, is this vinegar? There’s an odd, kombucha-like tang to the drink. I understand Spindrift soda leans heavy on real fruit, with no added sugar or “engineered” (their term) sweeteners. But only Tom Hanks on his Cast Away deserted island could possibly think this was a soda.

Concord Freeze

I moved on to Concord Freeze, the grape flavor. I grabbed Strawberry Shortcake first at random, but after that disappointment, I sought out Concord Freeze because it seemed like any company could make an adequate grape soda. This one was a bit better, not as vinegary, plus I was now braced for the fact that what I think is “soda” and what Spindrift thinks is “soda” are not in the same universe. Concord Freeze did not taste like grape soda, but it did smell like it, and honestly, I’d drink a whole can of this before I’d take another sip of Strawberry Shortcake.

Orange Cream Float

Orange Cream Float poured out more yellow than orange and reminded me of the orange juice you might be served at a bargain hotel’s breakfast buffet. People, you can’t call a drink “Orange Cream Float” and have it in no way remind drinkers of an orange soda-vanilla ice cream float! There was a pleasant aroma, but the drink reminded me of an out-of-season orange, where you keep nibbling at it, hoping you’ll find the sweet, rich citrus flavor of a true orange, but never get there.

Shirley Temple

Shirley Temple Spindrift soda was next. I love Shirley Temples! I also love the blissful, bubbly 7Up Shirley Temple, which imitates the popular kiddie cocktail that mixes 7Up and grenadine. But as you can maybe guess, I did not love the Shirley Temple Spindrift soda. This one gave me no vinegary tang but also no fruit flavor. There was just…nothing.

Ginger Ale

The final flavor, Spindrift Ginger Ale, is the best of the bunch. There’s both a recognizable scent and taste, with true ginger bite. Did I love it? No. Would I choose it over other brands of ginger ale or ginger beer? Again, no. But Tom Hanks, on his Cast Away island, would not throw this one out to sea.

Final Thoughts

Calling this line “soda” is misleading. It’s liquid, in a can, with fruit on the label, but it’s not what most people think of as soda. I appreciate that it has real fruit and no added sugar, but there’s zero reason to choose this over a Spindrift sparkling water. True, the “sodas” have about 35 to 40 calories per can, which is less than a regular Coke or Pepsi, but is about double the calories in your average Spindrift water flavor.

I love Spindrift water. I don’t love Spindrift soda. If you want real soda, buy some, and if you want a beverage with a hint of fruit flavor, pick up Spindrift sparkling water and enjoy that instead.

Spindrift Soda Release Date

If you want to try Spindrift soda for yourself, it’s only available on the Spindrift website, Amazon and at select retailers. You may not see it in your grocery store now, but the soda will appear in more stores later this year.

When I checked the site on March 5, the sampler of all the different flavors was sold out on Spindrift’s site, but I saw it was still available on Amazon. You can also order a 12-pack of one single flavor for $26 on Spindrift’s site and Amazon. Yes, that’s more than $2 a can, so your call on whether it’s worth it.

The post I Tried the Spindrift Soda, and It’s Not What I Was Expecting appeared first on Taste Recipes.

That’s when I turn to a cortado or, more recently, a chai tea latte. My mom got me hooked on chai, and I order that as often as I order espresso drinks. So, of course, when Starbucks released its Iced Cherry Chai on March 4, I placed an order.

What’s in the Iced Cherry Chai?

The new Iced Cherry Chai at Starbucks starts with black tea infused with warming spices like cinnamon and clove. The spiced tea is then combined with milk and ice. Baristas top the iced chai with cherry cream cold foam, then garnish the drink with a sprinkle of cherry crunch topping.

How does the Iced Cherry Chai compare to classic chai?

I’d pick the cherry chai over Starbucks’ regular iced chai latte any day! The cherry cream cold foam was delicate, not cloying. I sipped the iced chai at the bottom for a bit before I swizzled the cup to mix in the cold foam. I should have mixed it together sooner! The sweet cherry notes didn’t overpower the spiced chai flavors, and it was oddly reminiscent of bubblegum.

Lovers of a true masala chai would probably think the Iced Cherry Chai tastes synthetic, as it’s not strong on the fresh ginger, black pepper and cardamom notes. I went into this tasting knowing the cherry-flavored drink wouldn’t taste like a true masala chai, because the regular chai at Starbucks doesn’t hold up to a classic chai either. That said, I loved the pink-tinged drink in its own right.

You can order the cherry cream cold foam on other drinks, and I need to know how it tastes over an iced mocha.

What else is new at Starbucks?

In addition to the cherry cream cold foam, customers can also order lavender cream cold foam. The lavender drink line is making a return, including the Iced Lavender Cream Oat Milk Matcha, Iced Lavender Oat Milk Latte and Lavender Crème Frappuccino.

For coffee drinkers who keep things simple, there’s a new blonde roast in rotation. The Sunsera Blend is even lighter than the Veranda Blend. I tried a cup since I’m partial to black coffee and found it to be super easy on the palate. I’d order Sunsera over the medium-bodied Pike Place every time.

The post I Tried the Starbucks Iced Cherry Chai—Here’s My Honest Review appeared first on Taste Recipes.

VIA MERCHANT

Nordic Ware makes some of the best bakeware we’ve tried, from seasonally shaped bread bakers to pretty swirled Bundt pans. But here’s something that might surprise you: everything—from their bakeware to their stovetop skillets—is made right here in the U.S.

The fabrication process takes place in their Minneapolis factory. This includes forming, stamping and spinning metal into the shape of the pan. It also covers other processes, such as preparing surfaces, applying PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating and curing the coating onto the pans. Even their aluminum coils come from the U.S.

While the majority of their cookware components hail from the U.S., Jennifer notes that their cast stainless handles, while engineered by the U.S. product design team, are made overseas. This is largely due to the lack of U.S.-based handle makers. That said, they only rely on certain partners they’ve worked with for years to source these pieces.

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Editor's Pick

Smithey Cookware

Made in foundries in the Midwest and assembled in Charleston, South Carolina, Smithey cast-iron cookware is truly an all-American product.

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Known for its luxury cast-iron skillets, Smithey oversees every part of their cookware manufacturing process right here in the U.S. This includes the editor-loved #12 skillet, which former Editor Daria Smith notes her father has used for nearly a decade.

Smithey’s foundry partners in the Midwest pour the cast-iron cookware. Once completed, they ship to Smithey’s headquarters in Charleston, South Carolina. There, they polish, season and package every item so it’s ready for store shelves.

Even the brand’s carbon steel cookware is made from start to finish in Charleston, where it handles everything from shaping to seasoning. The only components externally sourced are their accessories and glass lids.

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Editor's Pick

All-Clad Cookware

All-Clad's heirloom quality cookware comes with a lifetime guarantee and a stellar reputation.

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When it comes to cookware made in the USA, All-Clad is one of the most well-reputed brands. They make our editor’s favorite stainless steel cookware, so performance is top-notch, too.

While All-Clad does use some imported materials, they bond, draft and assemble the products in the U.S. Between their quality materials and expertly crafted designs, All-Clad can get pretty pricey. We recommend checking our their Factory Seconds sale, which takes place monthly.

While All-Clad’s bonded cookware is American-made, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the case for the entire product line. All-Clad also offers professional kitchen tools, electrics, accessories, impact-bonded, hard-anodized nonstick cookware and nonstick bakeware sourced from global factories.

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Editor's Pick

Lodge Cookware

Famous for its cast-iron cookware, Lodge conducts every step of the manufacturing process right here in the U.S.

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Since 1896, Lodge Cast Iron has operated out of South Pittsburg, Tennessee—also known as cast iron’s hometown—to produce high-quality, American-made products. This makes Lodge Cast Iron one of the oldest and longest-running cast-iron cookware manufacturers in the U.S. Our editors are smitten with Lodge, using an assortment of cast-iron skillets in their homes and the Taste Recipes Test Kitchen.

Lodge manufactures a majority of its cookware within its two foundries, the oldest of which has been in operation since 1910. Lodge makes a wide assortment of products, including classic seasoned cast-iron skillets, pans, bakeware and grilling gear. All Lodge seasoned cast iron is made on-site, where it is poured, cleaned, seasoned and packaged for distribution.

While most of its cast-iron cookware comes from Tennessee, some collections, like Lodge’s Essential Enamel collection, use imported materials. This also extends to some of their cast-iron accessories.

What to Look for When Buying Cookware Made in the USA

• Design/assembly vs. manufacturing: Keep a close eye on the wording—designed or assembled in the U.S. does not mean the same as manufactured in the U.S. Many companies masquerade as U.S. manufacturers by making claims like ‘designed in the USA’ or ‘America’s favorite brand.’ “Many cookware brands advertise a big U.S. flag on their product, but when you dig into the details, it turns out the parts are all manufactured overseas and simply ‘assembled’ in the USA of 100% import components,” says Jennifer.
• Made in U.S. marketing: Per FDA compliance regulations, all (or virtually all) of the materials need to be made in the U.S. for a brand to tout “American-made” status on their marketing materials. That said, there are some gray areas within the guidelines as to how far back the process needs to be tracked, which is highly dependent on the product category.
• Price: Products made in the U.S. are subject to strict employment standards, including fair wages. Thus, many American-made cookware brands carry mid or high price points.

FAQ

Is Cuisinart cookware made in the USA?

According to our research, Cuisinart primarily makes and assembles its cookware overseas. While some collections, including their French Classic collection, come from Europe, most of their cookware is crafted in China.

What cookware is made in the United States?

Our favorite editor-tested cookware brands from the USA include Lodge, Smithey, All-Clad and Nordic Ware. Some brands also offer certain pieces made in the U.S., like Made In’s CeramiClad frying pan. Viking also has an American-made professional 5-ply cookware line.

Is All-Clad actually made in the USA?

According to Wendy, All-Clad fully bonded cookware is bonded, engineered and assembled in the U.S. The brand’s kitchen tools, electrics, accessories, impact-bonded and hard-anodized nonstick cookware and nonstick bakeware are sourced from its global factories.

Why You Should Trust Us

For this piece, I heavily researched each brand the Taste Recipes team already trusts and that touts itself as cookware made in the USA. To ensure we have the most accurate information, I contacted a spokesperson for each brand to inquire about specifics. This allowed me to distinguish between brands that truly cover every part of the manufacturing process in America vs. those that simply assemble here. I also learned whether all the brand’s cookware is made here or just certain types.

I have been on Taste Recipes, Reader’s Digest and Family Handyman‘s shopping team for over two years. My primary focus in these roles has been hands-on testing hundreds of products in the cuisine, lifestyle and DIY categories.

I also spoke to a handful of experts from each brand, including Wendy Dyer, International Product Director at All-Clad, Jennifer Dalquist, EVP of Nordic Ware, and Sydney Cooper, Smithey Ironware Company Marketing Manager.

The post Cookware Made in the U.S.: 4 Brands Our Editors Tested (and Loved!) appeared first on Taste Recipes.

In the interest of strawberry lovers everywhere, we decided to stage a blind taste test to decide whether the Erewhon strawberry really lives up to its promise.

Why is the Erewhon strawberry so expensive?

The single, flawless berry arrives in a plastic dome that pops open, a bit like a box holding an engagement ring. The berry sits pointed upward, its leaves and stem pinned to a plastic disc, which conveniently doubles as a handle as you take a bite. Though it may appear to be freshly picked at peak ripeness, the strawberry has actually traveled over 5,000 miles from the Tochigi prefecture of Japan. Like another Japanese specialty fruit, sumo citrus, the berries are especially sweet. They’re quite low in acid, a result of several years of crossbreeding for the exact right flavor.

What are people saying about this $19 strawberry?

TikTok influencer @alyssaantocii calls it the best strawberry she’s ever had—but her commenters expressed doubts. “No berry is worth $19,” one said. Another pointed out that the marketing ploy is going to impact the experience: “If I dropped $20 on a strawberry, I’d probably convince myself it was the best one I’ve ever tasted, too.” Others mentioned the environmental impact of the berry’s long journey and excessive plastic packaging.

How do you eat Tochiaika strawberries?

According to purveyors of the specialty fruit, Tochiaika strawberries are best eaten fresh, straight from your hand. If the berry is refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature for 15 or 30 minutes; cold temperatures mute flavor. Immediately before eating, give the berry a quick rinse, then take small bites, chewing slowly to enjoy the taste.

Is the Erewhon strawberry really that good?

Curious, we decided to stage a blind taste test to determine whether the Erewhon strawberry is really that good—or even noticeably better than ordinary strawberries.

How our taste test worked

Linda Cheung, a Taste Recipes video producer, sent her boyfriend to buy premium strawberries from Erewhon and a pint of Driscoll’s strawberries from Whole Foods.

What our tester thought

Linda correctly guessed which one was the Erewhon strawberry during the blind taste test. She said that the berry had a light, sweet flavor, with no tartness at all, and that the fruit had a “softer texture.” She reported that the other berry, the one from Whole Foods, was tart with more flavor and “crunchier” texture. Linda said this strawberry was juicier, too.

She also noticed some differences in the look of the berries. The Erewhon strawberry had smaller, brighter seeds, while the Whole Foods strawberry had larger, darker yellow seeds and broader leaves. However, the size of the berries and red color were about the same.

The Erewhon strawberry costs $19.99, and a 16-ounce container of Driscoll’s non-organic strawberries is $4.29 at Whole Foods. Linda said she’s unlikely to go back for another taste of the luxury strawberry, though she is glad she had the opportunity to try one (and expense the cost)!

The post I Tried the $19 Erewhon Strawberry and a Regular Strawberry—Here’s What I Thought appeared first on Taste Recipes.