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Pecan Bacon Cheeseball and more...
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
If you’re looking for an easy appetizer for the holidays, this Pecan Bacon Cheeseball Recipe is one to add to your menu! It’s made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, chopped pecans, and everything bagel seasoning. The combination is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, with a crunchy coating on the outside. Whether you’re putting together a snack board for Christmas, having friends over for game night, or need something simple to bring to a party, this cheeseball is easy to prepare and looks great served with crackers.  Why You’ll Love This Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Ingredients You’ll NeedYou only need a handful of ingredients to make this easy cheeseball recipe. 
 How to Make Pecan Bacon CheeseballThis recipe comes together in a few simple steps. Just remember to save half of the bacon, pecans, and scallions for the coating!  Step 1: Mix the Cheese and SeasoningsIn a medium mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, shredded triple cheddar cheese, everything bagel seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and milk. Use a hand mixer to combine everything until well mixed.  Step 2: Add the Bacon, Pecans, and ScallionsAdd half of the bacon bits, half of the sliced scallions, and half of the chopped pecans to the cheese mixture. Make sure the pieces are chopped small, then mix them into the cheese. Save the remaining bacon, pecans, and scallions for the outside of the cheeseball.  Step 3: Shape the CheeseballLay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter and place the cheese mixture in the center. Wrap it completely, then use the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a ball.   Step 4: RefrigeratePlace the wrapped cheeseball in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Step 5: Prepare the CoatingIn a shallow bowl, combine the remaining chopped pecans, bacon bits, and sliced scallions.  Step 6: Coat the CheeseballRemove the cheeseball from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap it. Roll it in the bacon and pecan mixture, gently pressing the coating onto the outside until it’s evenly covered.    Step 7: Serve and EnjoyPlace the finished cheeseball on a serving plate and serve with your favorite crackers or other dippers.   Pecan Bacon CheeseballThis easy Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is loaded with cream cheese, cheddar, crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, and savory seasonings for a delicious no bake appetizer that's perfect for holidays, parties, and game days!
Servings 6
Ingredients
Instructions
Helpful Tips for Making a CheeseballChop the mix-ins into small pieces. Smaller pieces of pecans, bacon, and scallions are easier to mix into the cheese and help the coating stick more evenly. Save half for the outside. Don’t add all the bacon, pecans, and scallions to the cheese mixture. You’ll need the remaining half to coat the cheeseball after it chills. Use plastic wrap to shape the ball. This helps you form the cheeseball without getting the mixture all over your hands. Serve with a variety of crackers. Offering a few different kinds gives everyone something to choose from. How to Store Pecan Bacon CheeseballKeep the cheeseball covered in the refrigerator at 40°F or colder when you aren’t serving it. If you’re serving it at a party, don’t leave it sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F, refrigerate it within 1 hour. The original recipe doesn’t specify how many days the finished cheeseball can be stored or whether it freezes well. Frequently Asked QuestionsDo I need to bake this cheeseball?No! This is a no-bake appetizer. You simply mix the ingredients, shape the cheeseball, refrigerate it, and add the coating. What should I serve with a bacon pecan cheeseball?Crackers are an easy choice. You can also serve it as part of a larger appetizer spread with other snacks. Do the pecans and bacon all go inside the cheeseball?No. You’ll mix half of the bacon, pecans, and scallions into the cheese mixture. The remaining half is used to coat the outside after refrigeration. Can I make the cheeseball ahead of time?The original recipe includes a 20-minute refrigeration step before coating and serving. It doesn’t provide instructions for making the cheeseball a day or more in advance, so that would need to be verified before recommending it. More Appetizer RecipesIf you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:
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Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip
Made with spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella, this warm and creamy dip is perfect for holiday parties, game days, or anytime you need something everyone can scoop up with crackers or bread. And since everything cooks together in the slow cooker, you don’t have to worry about keeping an eye on something in the oven while you’re getting everything else ready.  Why You’ll Love This Spinach Artichoke DipI love recipes that make entertaining a little easier, especially during the busy holiday season. With just a handful of ingredients and about five minutes of prep time, this crockpot spinach artichoke dip is easy to get started. The slow cooker does most of the work, and you only need to give it a stir partway through cooking. It’s a great option for Thanksgiving appetizers, Christmas parties, potlucks, or having friends over to watch the game. Ingredients You’ll NeedYou only need eight ingredients to make this creamy spinach artichoke dip! 
 How to Make Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke DipThis dip only takes a few minutes to put together before the slow cooker takes over. Step 1: Prepare the ArtichokesDrain the canned artichokes and cut them into small pieces.   Step 2: Cut the Cream CheeseCut the cream cheese into eight pieces so it’s easier to combine with the other ingredients as it heats.   Step 3: Add Everything to the Slow CookerPlace the cream cheese, chopped artichokes, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt into the slow cooker. Add the fresh spinach on top.   Step 4: Cook on LowCover and cook on LOW for approximately 2 to 2½ hours. After the first hour, stir everything together to mix the spinach into the creamy cheese mixture. Continue cooking until the dip is heated through and the ingredients are well combined.  Step 5: Serve WarmGive the dip one final stir before serving. Serve warm with your favorite crackers or slices of bread.  Instructions Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke DipSimple slow cooker recipe for homemade spinach artichoke dip appetizer.
Servings 6
Ingredients
Instructions
StorageRefrigeratorTransfer leftover spinach artichoke dip to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. FreezerBecause this recipe contains cream cheese and sour cream, freezing may affect its smooth, creamy texture. The dip may become grainy or separate when thawed. For the best texture, I’d recommend enjoying it fresh or refrigerated rather than freezing it. ReheatingReheat leftovers in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring between intervals. Heat leftovers to 165°F. FAQsCan I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?The original recipe calls for fresh spinach. Frozen spinach may work, but the amount and preparation would need to be adjusted. I haven’t verified that substitution for this recipe. What should I serve with spinach artichoke dip?Crackers and slices of bread are both great options. You could also serve it with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips. Do I need to cook the spinach before adding it to the slow cooker?No. For this recipe, the fresh spinach goes directly into the slow cooker. You’ll stir it into the dip after the first hour of cooking. How long does spinach artichoke dip take in the slow cooker?The original recipe lists approximately 2 to 2½ hours on LOW, with a stir after the first hour. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Can I make spinach artichoke dip ahead of time?You can prepare the dip ahead and refrigerate it promptly after cooking, then reheat it thoroughly before serving. For the best texture, stir well as it warms. More RecipesIf you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:
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Amazon Grocery Deals
Saving money on groceries can feel really hard right now… but Amazon grocery deals are one of my favorite ways to save without even leaving the house. You can often find cheap pantry staples, snacks, baking items, and household essentials for less than store prices, especially when Amazon runs limited time sales. Right now, Amazon is offering FREE Delivery on order over $25. I check these deals often because prices change fast, and sometimes they are really good.  Today’s Best Amazon Grocery DealsHere are some of the best grocery deals I am finding right now. I update this list often, so check back throughout the day for new deals. If you’ve been waiting for a good price on pop, this could be a great time to stock up! These 12 packs are dropping 40% off and starting at $3.83 each when you buy three and use Subscribe & Save.
Prices, coupons, and availability can change quickly, so check the final price before placing your order.  Stock up on sugar for holiday baking! Buy four, save 10% automatically in your cart, and choose Subscribe & Save to get:
Prices include shipping.
 Nutri-Grain Soft Baked Breakfast Bars, 32 count for just $5.99 shipped! That’s only $1.49 per box! Strawberry Toaster Pastries, 8 Count for only $1.12 shipped when you clip the 15% off e-coupon and check out through Subscribe & Save! Reese’s Puffs Breakfast Cereal (11.5 oz) for just $2.84 shipped when you check out through Subscribe & Save! All Purpose Flour, 2 Lb for just $0.95 shipped when you clip the 15% off e-coupon and check out through Subscribe & Save! Kraft Mac & Cheese is dropping to just $0.90 per box when you check out through Subscribe & Save! Shop all Amazon Grocery Deals. Why Amazon Is Great for Grocery DealsOne of the best things about shopping Amazon for groceries is how easy it is to compare prices and find discounts in one place. You can often find:
Plus, everything is delivered right to your door, which saves both time and gas money. How to Save More with Subscribe and SaveOne of my favorite ways to save even more is with Amazon Subscribe and Save. When you choose this option, you get an extra discount just for scheduling your item to be delivered. This works great for things you use all the time like snacks, coffee, or pantry staples. And here is the best part… So you can grab the discount without being locked into anything long term. Can You Use EBT on AmazonYes, you can use EBT on Amazon for many grocery items, which can make things even easier for families. If you already receive SNAP benefits, this is a simple way to shop for groceries online and have them delivered right to your door. You can read more about how it works here.  Is Amazon Prime Worth It for Grocery DealsIf you shop Amazon often, having an Amazon Prime membership can help you save even more. With Prime, you usually get:
That means more savings and fewer trips to the store. Check Back Often for the Best Amazon Grocery DealsI will be updating this page regularly with the best Amazon grocery deals I find. Deals can sell out or change quickly, so it is a good idea to check back often. You never know what great deal might pop up next.  • View comments • Track comments •
How to Make a Christmas Budget That Includes All the Little Extras
Every year, it seems like Christmas spending starts with gifts and somehow turns into so much more! There are stocking stuffers, groceries for Christmas dinner, teacher gifts, wrapping paper, and that cute little decoration you weren’t planning to buy. None of those purchases seem like a big deal on their own. But together, they can take a pretty big bite out of your budget.  This year, Rich and I are intentionally scaling back on Christmas spending. And one thing I’ve realized is that it’s not always the big gifts that throw off the budget. Sometimes it’s all those little purchases we don’t think about ahead of time. I want to enjoy Christmas without spending January trying to catch up! A Christmas budget should include everything you expect to spend because of the holiday. It doesn’t have to be complicated or take the fun out of Christmas. It just helps you decide where your money will go before you start spending it. Start With What You Can AffordBefore making your shopping list, figure out how much money you can reasonably put toward Christmas. Not sure how much you should budget for Christmas this year? My Christmas Budget Calculator can help you figure out how much you can spend and make a plan before you start shopping. Look at what you already have saved and what you can set aside between now and the holiday after covering your regular bills and needs. Try not to start with everything you want to buy and then figure out how to pay for it. Start with the money you have available and build your plans around that amount. Whether you have $300 or $800 to spend, start with what you can actually afford and make your Christmas plans fit that amount. Your Christmas budget does not have to look like anyone else’s. It needs to work for your household. You can use my free printable budget planner to look at your regular expenses and see what room you have for holiday spending.  Check What You Already HaveBefore buying anything, take a little inventory. Check the closet where you tuck away gifts throughout the year. Look through your wrapping supplies, decorations, and pantry. You might already have:
Make a note of what you find and who any gifts could go to. A gift bought months ago is easy to forget when you are scrolling through holiday deals. Checking first can keep you from buying twice for the same person. Make a Gift List With Spending LimitsWrite down everyone you plan to give a gift to, then assign an amount to each person. Include the people outside your immediate family, too. Teachers, neighbors, coworkers, hosts, and gift exchanges can all become part of your holiday spending. You don’t have to spend the same amount on everyone. You can also decide that some people will receive a homemade treat, a thoughtful note, or a small shared gift. Your list might look something like this:
These amounts are just examples. Choose amounts that fit your total budget. Once you’ve bought someone’s gift, cross them off your list! You don’t need to keep adding things just because you find another good deal.  Give Stocking Stuffers Their Own BudgetStocking stuffers are easy to underestimate. A few dollars for candy, a little toy, some lip balm, and a pair of socks can add up quickly when you are filling several stockings. Decide how much you want to spend per stocking before shopping. Then multiply that amount by the number you plan to fill. For example, four stockings at $15 each need a $60 place in your Christmas budget. You can include useful items you would buy anyway, but count the spending somewhere in your household budget. Moving a purchase into a stocking doesn’t make it free. Plan for Holiday FoodChristmas food spending can go well beyond one dinner. Think about what you expect to make or bring throughout the season:
Check your pantry before making your grocery list, and look for recipes that use some of the same ingredients. You can also simplify the menu. A few favorite dishes can make a wonderful meal without needing every side, dessert, and appetizer you can think of. For your budget, count the extra food spending above what you normally spend on groceries. If your usual grocery money covers part of the meal, you don’t need to count that same money twice.  Include Wrapping, Packaging, and PostageWrapping supplies are another expense that often gets left off the list. Think about wrapping paper, tape, gift bags, tissue paper, tags, and any containers you need for homemade gifts. If you mail gifts or Christmas cards, include postage and shipping costs, too. Before buying more supplies, use what you have. A saved gift bag or a simple paper bag can still make a gift feel special. For homemade food gifts, include the packaging when you calculate the cost per gift. The cookies might be inexpensive, but tins, jars, and ribbon can change the total. Choose the Activities That Matter MostThere are plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas, but you don’t have to pay for all of them. Talk with your family about the traditions you most want to keep. Then figure out what those plans will cost. That might include tickets, parking, gas, meals while you are out, or supplies for an activity at home. A Christmas movie night, looking at neighborhood lights, or baking together can be something to look forward to without requiring a big purchase. Leave room for the traditions you care about most. It is easier to pass on other activities when you have already decided what matters to your family.  Remember Decorations, Clothing, and TravelNot every household will spend money in these categories, but they are worth considering before you finish your budget. Will you buy a Christmas tree? Do you need to replace a broken string of lights? Are you planning to buy matching pajamas or clothes for a gathering? If you are traveling, think about transportation, lodging, meals, and any other costs you will need to cover. These expenses can still fit into your plan. The important part is deciding on them ahead of time instead of treating every purchase as an exception. Leave a Little Room for the UnexpectedEven with a good list, something may come up. You might remember a gift exchange, get invited to another gathering, or need an ingredient you thought was in the pantry. If possible, leave a small amount unassigned for those expenses. That money is part of your total Christmas budget. It gives you some flexibility without increasing the amount you planned to spend. If your budget doesn’t have room for a cushion, an unexpected expense may mean reducing another category. Put Your Christmas Budget TogetherThink about it. An extra $10 for stocking stuffers, $15 for wrapping supplies, $20 for Christmas baking ingredients, and $25 for a last-minute gift adds up to $70 you might not have planned to spend. And that’s before all the other little things that pop up during December! Here is an example of how a $500 Christmas budget could be divided:
This example doesn’t include travel. If travel is part of your Christmas plans, give it a category and adjust the other amounts. Your numbers may look completely different. You might spend more on food and less on gifts, or use decorations and wrapping supplies you already own. The goal is to make sure your planned spending fits the money you have available. Track Your Spending as You GoKeep a running total as you shop. A notebook, your phone, or a simple spreadsheet can work. Record the purchase, its full cost, and the category it belongs to. Include sales tax and shipping when they apply. If you budget $40 for a gift and buy it for $28, record the $28 you spent. You don’t have to find another $12 worth of gifts to reach the limit. Coming in under budget is a good thing. Check your remaining money before shopping again, especially during big sales. A discount can help you buy something on your list for less, but it can also tempt you to spend money you had planned to keep. What if Your Plans Cost More Than Your Budget?If the total is too high, adjust the plan before making the purchases. You could give fewer gifts, choose smaller gifts, simplify a meal, reuse decorations, or replace a paid activity with something you can do at home. If other people are involved in your plans, have those conversations early. Setting a gift exchange limit or asking everyone to bring a dish can make the season more affordable for several households. You can give yourself permission to do less. Christmas can still be meaningful when the gifts are smaller, the food is simpler, and the calendar has a little breathing room. We’re actually putting this into practice ourselves this Christmas! Rich and I are buying fewer gifts, shopping secondhand when we can, and focusing more on making memories together. I shared more about our plans in my latest Christmas YouTube video.  Make Your Plan Before the Holiday Spending BeginsYou don’t need to have every gift figured out today. Start by choosing a total you can afford, checking what you already have, and writing down the expenses you expect. Then use that plan as you shop and make decisions throughout the season. My free printable budget planner can help you see how Christmas spending fits alongside your regular household needs. I want to enjoy the season and feel good about the choices I made when January arrives. Planning for the little extras is one way to help make that happen. What Christmas expense tends to sneak up on you each year?  • View comments • Track comments •
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls combine two of my favorite fall treats into one delicious recipe! You get soft, fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls filled with sweet apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. And here’s the best part. You can use canned apple pie filling, which makes these homemade apple cinnamon rolls a little easier to put together. They’re perfect for a cozy fall breakfast, weekend brunch, or even Thanksgiving morning!  Why You’ll Love These Apple Pie Cinnamon RollsIf you love apple pie and homemade cinnamon rolls, this recipe gives you the best of both! Using prepared apple pie filling saves you the extra step of peeling and cooking apples, but you still get homemade yeast dough with those soft cinnamon roll layers. You can even add a little extra apple pie filling on top before baking if you want more apple flavor.  Ingredients You’ll NeedFor the Dough
For the Apple Cinnamon Filling
Optional Topping: Additional apple pie filling and a pinch of cinnamon.  How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon RollsThese cinnamon rolls take a little time because the dough needs to rise twice, but the process is pretty straightforward. Step 1: Prepare the YeastCombine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 8 minutes until it becomes foamy. If the yeast doesn’t foam, start over with fresh yeast and check the milk temperature.    Step 2: Make the DoughAdd the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir in the flour, beginning with 2½ cups and adding more as needed. Knead the dough for 6 to 10 minutes, either by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky without being overly sticky. Step 3: Let the Dough RiseTransfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover. Allow it to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.  Step 4: Prepare the Apple FillingIf your apple pie filling has a lot of extra liquid, drain it in a strainer for 5 to 10 minutes. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Step 5: Roll Out the DoughPunch down the risen dough and roll it into a rectangle approximately 12 by 18 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture over the butter.  Step 6: Add the Apples and RollSpoon the apple pie filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Don’t add the filling too thickly, or it may spill out when you roll the dough. Starting at one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 10 to 12 cinnamon rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.    Step 7: Let the Rolls Rise AgainArrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and allow them to rise for another 25 to 35 minutes, until puffy.  Step 8: BakeBake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and the centers are set. If the tops begin browning too quickly, loosely cover them with foil after approximately 15 minutes. For extra apple flavor, you can spoon a little additional apple pie filling over each roll about 10 minutes into baking, then sprinkle with cinnamon.  Step 9: Cool and ServeAllow the cinnamon rolls to cool for approximately 10 minutes before serving. The apple filling will be very hot, so give them a few minutes before digging in! Instructions Apple Pie Cinnamon RollsIngredientsDough
Filling + Flavor
Optional topping: extra apple pie filling + a pinch of cinnamonInstructionsProof yeast + make dough
Prep Filling
Assemble
Second rise
Bake
Optional apple topping during baking
Notestips (bakery-style) •Foamy yeast = reliable rise. •Knead fully 6–10 min for fluffy layers. •Drain very wet pie filling to prevent soggy centers. •Bake until centers look set, not just “golden.” Tips for Making Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll
StorageRefrigeratorStore leftover Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Because these rolls contain apple pie filling, I recommend refrigerating them rather than leaving them on the counter. FreezerThese cinnamon rolls can also be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months for the best quality. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe bag or container. This makes it easy to grab just one or two whenever you want them! ReheatingFor a quick treat, warm an individual cinnamon roll in the microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also place the rolls in an oven safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 300°F until heated through. For food safety, reheat leftovers to 165°F. Freezer Tip: If you’re planning to freeze these, wrap them individually so you don’t have to thaw the entire batch at once. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. FAQsCan I use canned apple pie filling?Yes! This recipe specifically calls for store bought apple pie filling, making preparation a little easier. Why didn’t my dough rise?Your yeast may have expired, or the milk may have been too hot or too cold. The yeast mixture should become foamy after resting for 5 to 8 minutes. How do I keep the apple filling from making the rolls soggy?If your pie filling is watery, drain it before spreading it over the dough. Be careful not to add too much filling. Can I add more apples on top?Yes! The original recipe includes an optional topping of additional apple pie filling and cinnamon. How do I know when the cinnamon rolls are done?The tops should be lightly golden, and the centers should look set rather than doughy. More RecipesIf you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:
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