Buttermilk Alternatives

I love using buttermilk when I make pancakes to help make them extra fluffy. But sometimes buttermilk can be expensive, especially if you don’t plan on using it all up before it goes bad. So here are two cheaper options to consider:

• Milk + Vinegar or Lemon juice – Mix 1-2 Tbsp of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Stir and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. Proceed to use in the recipe in place of buttermilk.

Freezing Buttermilk

Did you know you can freeze buttermilk? If you buy buttermilk from the store, instead of letting the rest go bad in the fridge, try freezing leftover buttermilk to use for later!

Storing Leftovers

These apple cinnamon pancakes can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed for up to 4 days. You can store the pancakes and the cooked apple topping separately if you want, but I often store mine together. The apples hold their texture very well. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through or pop the pancakes in the toaster to reheat separately from the apple topping.

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Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Make breakfast extra special with these fluffy and super delicious Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. Perfect to enjoy any day of the week!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Total Cost $4.22 recipe / $1.06 serving

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4 (2 pancakes each)

Calories 482kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• White Cutting Boards
• Measuring Cups Spoons
• Liquid Measuring Cup

Ingredients

Apple Topping

• 2 large apples $1.50
• 2 Tbsp butter $0.28
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon $0.05
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar $0.08
• 2 Tbsp water $0.00

Pancakes

• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour $0.30
• 1.5 tsp baking powder $0.05
• 1/2 tsp baking soda $0.03
• 1/2 tsp salt $0.03
• 1 tsp cinnamon $0.10
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar $0.05
• 1 cup buttermilk* $0.53
• 1 large egg, beaten $0.22
• 1/4 cup butter, melted $0.56
• 1 tsp vanilla extract $0.30
• 1 Tbsp butter (for cooking pancakes) $0.14

Instructions

• Peel, remove the core, and dice the apples.
• Melt 2 Tbsp butter in a small pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar and water to the pot. Stir together and allow the apples to come up to a simmer. Cook the apples for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender. Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a lid to keep warm.
• While the apples are cooking, start on the pancakes. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and granulated sugar.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the same bowl as the dry ingredients. Stir together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point. The batter will be a little thick.
• Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot add ½ Tbsp of butter and swirl around to coat the surface. Add about ¼ cup pancake batter to the hot skillet. I like to cook two pancakes at a time.
• Cook the pancakes until bubbles form over the surface and begin to pop. The edges and bottom of the pancakes will also start to become golden brown (about 60-90 seconds). Now flip the pancakes and cook on the second side until golden brown (about 30-60 seconds).
• Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet between batches or as needed, until all of the pancakes have been cooked. Keep the pancakes warm on a plate under a towel or on a baking sheet in a warm oven until all of the pancakes have been cooked.
• Now serve the pancakes with several spoonfuls of cooked cinnamon apples on top and a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*You can certainly use regular whole milk instead of buttermilk if that is what you have on hand. I wanted extra fluffy pancakes which is why I chose to use buttermilk.

Nutrition

Serving: 2pancakes | Calories: 482kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 24g | Sodium: 828mg | Fiber: 4g

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pancakes – Step by Step Photos

Peel, remove the core, and dice 2 large apples.

Melt 2 Tbsp butter in a small pot over medium heat. Add the diced apples, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 2 Tbsp brown sugar and 2 Tbsp water to the pot. Stir together and allow the apples to come up to a simmer.

Cook the apples for approximately 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender. Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a lid to keep warm.

While the apples are cooking, start on the pancakes. In a large bowl whisk together 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 3 Tbsp granulated sugar.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, 1 beaten egg, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Pour the wet ingredients into the same bowl as the dry ingredients.

Stir together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point. The batter will be a little thick.

Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet between batches or as needed, until all of the pancakes have been cooked. Keep the pancakes warm on a plate under a towel or on a baking sheet in a warm oven until all of the pancakes have been cooked.

Now serve the pancakes with several spoonfuls of cooked cinnamon apples on top and a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Enjoy these warm, apple cinnamon pancakes with some crispy air fryer bacon on the side. So good!!😋

More Pancake Recipes

Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

$0.95 recipe / $0.24 serving

Sheet Pan Pancakes

$2.22 recipe / $0.55 serving

Ricotta Pancakes

$2.29 recipe / $0.57 serving

Dutch Baby

$1.60 recipe / $0.40 serving

The post Apple Cinnamon Pancakes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

I must confess: I almost always skip breakfast if I don’t plan ahead! Then, noon rolls around, and I am hangry. It’s not a good look—just ask my husband! That’s why having this overnight oatmeal in the fridge at all times is a MUST. Oats are full of fiber, which keeps me full until lunchtime, and I love the blank canvas to turn them into a unique treat, depending on my craving that day.

What Are Overnight Oats?

Think of overnight oats as the cooler, more convenient cousin of traditional oatmeal. Instead of cooking the oats on a stovetop or in a microwave, they soak overnight in liquid (usually milk) and soften to the perfect texture without heat. I also add brown sugar, chia seeds, and cinnamon to my base recipe to create a delicious, well-rounded breakfast. Mix it all in a mason jar and let it sit in the fridge overnight for a grab-and-go breakfast in the morning!

Are Overnight Oats Healthy?

Oats are a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals! They’ll keep you full and satisfied for longer, making them a great breakfast option. Adding milk, chia seeds, fresh fruit, and nuts only adds to their nutritional value. You can leave out the brown sugar if you want to reduce the added sugar, but overall, overnight oats with chia seeds can definitely be considered a healthy choice!

how long do overnight oats last?

These oats can last in the fridge for 4-5 days, making them great for meal-prepping. I prefer enjoying them within 12 hours for the best texture, but they’ll still taste good after a few days—maybe just a bit softer. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and don’t add any toppings until you’re ready to eat them.

Overnight Oats Variations

I am super picky when it comes to my oatmeal: 1. I want a lot of varied textures, 2. I want it to be nutrient-dense and have healthy components, and 3. It has to come together FAST! These flavor variations check everything off my list:

Peanut BUTTER and Jelly

Your childhood favorite gets an upgrade with my peanut butter and jelly overnight oat recipe. I layer blueberry jam with crunchy peanut butter AND peanuts for extra crunch. Add a few fresh blueberries and you’re good to go!

Chocolate Raspberry

Will chocolate and fresh berries ever not be a match made in heaven? I don’t think so. You only need some raspberry jam, dark chocolate chips, and fresh raspberries to make a breakfast that tastes just like dessert.

Banana Walnut

Banana bread is my go-to coffee shop snack, so I always have an overnight oat version in the fridge. Simply mix in some walnuts and add sliced bananas on top for a delicious and satisfying breakfast that’ll keep you feeling full all morning!

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Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations)

These easy Overnight Oats are the ultimate introduction to budget-friendly meal prep. They're no-cook, ideal for on-the-go, and customizable!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Amercian

Total Cost $1.04 serving

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Chill Time 8 hours hours

Total Time 8 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 8 oz mason jar

Calories 302kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• 8oz. Mason Jars

Ingredients

Overnight Oats Base Recipe

• ½ cup old fashioned oats $0.82
• ½ cup milk $0.09
• ½ Tbsp brown sugar* $0.04
• ⅛ tsp cinnamon $0.01
• ½ Tbsp chia seeds $0.07
• pinch of salt $0.01

Peanut Butter and Jelly Variation (total: $1.93 per serving)

• base recipe $1.04
• 1 tsp blueberry jam $0.04
• 1 Tbsp peanuts $0.10
• 1 Tbsp crunchy peanut butter $0.49
• a few blueberries, if desired $0.23

Chocolate Raspberry Variation (total: $1.56 per serving)

• base recipe $1.04
• 1 tsp red raspberry jam $0.04
• 1 Tbsp dark chocolate chips $0.11
• a few raspberries, if desired $0.34

Banana Walnut Variation (total: $1.42 per serving)

• base recipe $1.04
• 1 Tbsp walnuts $0.29
• ⅓ of a banana, diced $0.09

Instructions

• Combine old fashioned oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, chia seeds, and salt in an 8 oz. Mason Jar.
• Pour in milk.
• Stir or shake to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed in evenly to avoid clumps of chia or brown sugar.
• Put the lid onto your mason jar and place it in the fridge.
• Refrigerate for 15 minutes or up to 12 hours before enjoying.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*If you don’t want added sugar, skip it! The ratios in this recipe come out great with or without the brown sugar.

Nutrition

Serving: 18 oz jar (base recipe only) | Calories: 302kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 8g | Sodium: 344mg | Fiber: 6g

how to make Overnight Oats – step by step photos

Combine ½ cup old fashioned oats, 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar, ⅛ tsp cinnamon, ½ Tbsp chia seeds, and a pinch of salt in an 8 oz. Mason Jar.

Pour in ½ cup milk.

Stir or shake to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed in evenly to avoid clumps of chia or brown sugar.

Put the lid onto your mason jar and place it in the fridge.

Refrigerate for 15 minutes or up to 12 hours before enjoying.

Never skip breakfast again with this easy and satisfying recipe for overnight oats!

More Overnight Oats Recipes

Golden Milk Overnight Oats

$0.40 each

Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats

$0.95 each

Double Chocolate Overnight Oats

$1.58 recipe / $0.40 serving

Apple Pie Overnight Oats

$2.26 recipe / $0.57 serving

The post Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations) appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Why Make Zucchini Bread?

If you’re wondering what’s all the hype about zucchini bread, let me fill you in. Zucchini has a fairly neutral flavor and adapts very well to the warm spices, like cinnamon and vanilla, in this recipe. So it ends up being the perfect way to incorporate a green vegetable into a delicious homemade bread recipe. And because zucchini contains over 90% water it also makes this zucchini bread super moist and irresistible!

Do You Peel the Zucchini Before Grating It?

You don’t have to worry about peeling the zucchini before grating it, saving you another extra step. Just give it a good wash with your hands or a vegetable brush and you’ll be good to go!

Storing Leftovers

This homemade zucchini bread makes the best grab-n-go breakfast! To store leftovers make sure the bread is completely cooled after baking, then cut it into thick slices. Place the zucchini bread in an airtight container or a gallon-sized storage bag in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, store in a freezer-safe storage bag for up to 3 months. Individual slices can be taken out and thawed at room temperature or briefly microwaved to warm through.

If muffins are more your jam, don’t worry…this recipe also makes perfect, smaller-sized Zucchini Muffins!

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Zucchini Bread

This Zucchini Bread recipe is super moist, flavorful, and the best way to use up extra zucchini during the summer or all year round!

Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Total Cost $4.96 recipe / $0.41 serving

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings 12 slices

Calories 234kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• Metal Loaf Pan

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated zucchini* (about 1 lb.) $1.49
• 2 large eggs $0.33
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar $0.20
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar $0.28
• 1/3 cup sweetened applesauce $0.18
• 1/4 cup cooking oil $0.16
• 1 tsp vanilla extract $0.50
• 2 cups all-purpose flour $0.40
• 1 tsp baking powder $0.06
• 1/2 tsp baking soda $0.02
• 1/2 tsp salt $0.04
• 1 tsp cinnamon $0.10
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) $1.20

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Next wash the zucchini well, trim off the stem, then using the large holes on a box grater, grate the zucchini and set it to the side. You’ll need roughly 2 cups of grated zucchini.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Add the grated zucchini to the bowl and stir until well combined.
• Now in a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until combined.
• Pour the flour mixture into the bowl of wet ingredients and stir them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point.
• Add the chopped walnuts to the bowl and gently fold them into the batter until just combined.
• Grease a 8.5"x4.5" loaf pan with butter, then add the batter evenly into the pan.
• Bake the zucchini bread in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until it's deeply golden brown on top, has a crack down the center, and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean (crumbs are okay, but wet batter is not).
• Allow the loaf to cool for about 5 minutes in the pan, then gently remove it from the pan and allow it to finish cooling on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice, serve, and enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*If you have extra-large zucchini you may need to squeeze out a little bit of the excess water after it’s grated. Extremely large zucchini tend to have an even higher water content than medium-large sized zucchini.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 234kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Sodium: 193mg | Fiber: 1g

How to Make Zucchini Bread – Step by Step Photos

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Next wash the zucchini well, trim off the stem, then using the large holes on a box grater, grate 2 cups of grated zucchini and set it to the side.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1/2 cup granulated white sugar, 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, 1/3 cup sweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup cooking oil, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.

Add the grated zucchini to the bowl and stir until well combined.

Now in a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon until combined.

Pour the flour mixture into the bowl of wet ingredients and stir them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point.

Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts to the bowl and gently fold them into the batter until just combined.

Grease a 8.5″x4.5″ loaf pan with butter, then add the batter evenly into the pan.

Bake the zucchini bread in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until it’s deeply golden brown on top, has a crack down the center, and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean (crumbs are okay, but wet batter is not).

Allow the loaf to cool for about 5 minutes in the pan, then gently remove it from the pan and allow it to finish cooling on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice, serve, and enjoy!

More Zucchini Recipes

Baked Zucchini Fries

$3.81 recipe / $0.76 serving

Lemon Pepper Zucchini

$1.98 recipe / $0.50 serving

Zucchini Slice

$5.31 recipe / $0.66 serving

Charred Corn and Zucchini Salad

$3.92 recipe / $0.98 serving

The post Zucchini Bread appeared first on Budget Bytes.

I’m not ashamed to say that I’m a bit crunchy… the kind of “crunchy” who left the city for the county, lives on a farm, grows their own vegetables, and makes their own Granola Bars. Guilty as charged! I love a hearty, chewy granola bar with a variety of textures, and this recipe is all of that and more! Marsha and I break these out of the freezer at the Budget Bytes studio on a regular basis; they make one heck of a snack.

Bonus: Because there’s no heat involved, these homemade granola bars are also fun to make with kids! They can mold the dough into fun shapes and help you in the kitchen!

Is it cheaper to make your own granola bars?

Sometimes! I like to buy peanut butter and oats in bulk whenever they’re on sale since they keep well for a long time unopened. This really helps me cut down on costs. Some value-sized packs of store-bought granola bars are cheaper than my homemade recipe, but I can guarantee the ingredients aren’t nearly as wholesome. At just $0.72 per bar, these healthy homemade granola bars are good for your wallet and better for your body!

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Granola Bars

Homemade Granola Bars are wholesome and healthy! Loaded with oats, dates, peanut butter, walnuts, and chocolate chips.

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine American

Total Cost ($7.42 recipe / $0.72 serving)

Prep Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Servings 10 (1 bar each)

Calories 222kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• Food Processor

Ingredients

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted $2.99
• 1/2 cup chunky peanut butter $0.29
• 1/4 cup walnuts $0.87
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon $0.05
• 1/4 tsp sea salt $0.01
• 1 1/2 cups quick rolled oats $2.23
• 1/4 cup honey $0.78
• 2 Tbsp dark chocolate chips $0.20

Instructions

• Gather ingredients. In a food processor, process dates (make sure all of them are pitted!) until they form a big ball of “dough”
• In a mixing bowl, combine Medjool date "dough", chunky peanut butter, walnuts, ground cinnamon, sea salt, cups quick rolled oats, honey, and dark chocolate chips and mix together by hand (it’s going to be sticky!)
• Spread granola bar batter into a lined baking dish and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm but not completely solid.
• Remove from freezer. Cut bars into the size and shape you want. These will keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to one month!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 222kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 10g | Sodium: 122mg | Fiber: 3g

how to make Granola Bars – step by step photos

Gather ingredients. In a food processor, process 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (make sure all of them are pitted!) until they form a big ball of “dough”

In a mixing bowl, combine combine Medjool date “dough”, 1/2 cup chunky peanut butter, 1/4 cup walnuts, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp sea salt, 1 1/2 cups quick rolled oats, 1/4 cup honey, and 2 Tbsp dark chocolate chips and mix together by hand (it’s going to be sticky!)

Spread the granola bar batter into a lined baking dish and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm but not completely solid.

Remove from freezer. Cut bars into the size and shape you want. These will keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to one month!

You’ll never buy store-bought granola bars again!

More Breakfast Recipes

Avocado Smoothie

$2.80 recipe / 2.80 serving

Sheet Pan Pancakes

$2.22 recipe / $0.55 serving

Apple Cranberry Baked Oatmeal

$3.51 recipe / $0.59 serving

Egg Muffins

$2.01 recipe / $0.34 serving

The post Granola Bars appeared first on Budget Bytes.

This creamy, rich Banana Cake is dessert, it’s breakfast, it’s the treat we all need and deserve! The best part? This cake is so easy to make, and I bet you have most- if not all- of the ingredients already on hand!

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Banana Cake

When life hands you overripe bananas about to meet their doom, make this budget-friendly Banana Cake instead!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Total Cost ($10.80 recipe / $0.72 slice)

Prep Time 35 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings 15 slices (1 slice per serving)

Calories 513kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• Hand Mixer

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients:

• 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour $0.45
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda $0.06
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon $0.08
• 1/2 tsp salt $0.01
• 1 tsp lemon juice $0.01
• 3 very ripe bananas, mashed $0.81
• 1 cup granulated sugar $0.34
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar $0.34
• 3 eggs, room temperature $0.47
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter $1.89
• 2 tsp vanilla extract $1.30
• 1 1/2 cups milk $0.27

Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened to room temperature $1.86
• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter (1 stick), room temperature $0.94
• 3 cups powdered sugar $1.02
• 1 tsp vanilla extract $0.65
• 1 tsp lemon juice $0.01

Garnish:

• 2 Tbsp crushed walnuts $0.29

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13” baking dish. Whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together. Set aside.
• Mash the bananas and lemon juice with a fork and set aside.
• Using a handheld mixer, beat the butter and sugars on high speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
• Add the eggs and the vanilla to sugar/butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until combined.
• Then, add the mashed bananas.
• With the mixer on low speed, using your free hand, add 1/3 of the dry ingredients and 1/3 of the milk, back and forth until all ingredients are fully mixed in. Do not overmix. The batter will be slightly thick and a little lumpy from the bananas.
• Spread batter into the buttered pan and bake for 45–50 minutes. When you insert a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean, you know your cake is done! If you notice the cake is browning very quickly, test it with the toothpick and cover loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the bake time if it’s not quite done.
• To make your frosting, combine all frosting ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix with your handheld mixer until completely creamy and smooth.
• Allow cake to cool completely (on the countertop it took my cake about an hour) before frosting. Frost and enjoy with an extra sprinkle of crushed walnuts on top!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 513kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 23g | Sodium: 263mg | Fiber: 1g

how to make Banana Cake – step by step photos

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13” baking dish. Whisk 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt together. Set aside.

Mash 3 very ripe bananas and 1 tsp lemon juice with a fork and set aside.

Using a handheld mixer, beat 3/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup light brown sugar on high speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.

Add 3 room temperature eggs and 2 tsp vanilla extract to the sugar/butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until combined.

Then, add the mashed bananas.

With the mixer on low speed, using your free hand, add 1/3 of the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup of the milk, back and forth until all ingredients are fully mixed in (1 1/2 cups of milk total). Do not overmix. The batter will be slightly thick and a little lumpy from the bananas.

Spread batter into the buttered pan and bake for 45–50 minutes. When you insert a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean, you know your cake is done! If you notice the cake is browning very quickly, test it with the toothpick and cover loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the bake time if it’s not quite done.

To make your frosting, combine all 8 oz. room temperature cream cheese, 8 Tbsp room temperature unsalted butter, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp lemon juice in a large mixing bowl and mix with your handheld mixer until completely creamy and smooth.

Allow cake to cool completely (on the countertop it took my cake about an hour) before frosting. Frost and sprinkle with 2 Tbsp crushed walnuts!

There’s no better use for overripe bananas than this delicious banana cake!

More Delicious Cake Recipes

Strawberry Sheet Cake

$11.72 recipe / $0.78 serving

Texas Sheet Cake

$11.27 recipe / $0.75 serving

Hummingbird Cake

$15.67 recipe / $1.31 serving

Lemon Pound Cake

$4.85 recipe / $0.40 serving

The post Banana Cake appeared first on Budget Bytes.

What Is An Avocado Smoothie?

Citrus and avocado are a classic combination. In this smoothie, I add a creamy, ripe banana and a little extra sweetness from agave nectar, making it an instant winner! Super creamy, bright, and fun, this avocado smoothie is the perfect treat with lots of healthy ingredients involved.

What Else Can I Add?

This smoothie is a great base to add extra greens or fruit to!

• I love to add spinach or kale.
• Frozen blueberries or pineapple make great fruity additions!
• For a protein boost, add a scoop of peanut butter or vanilla protein powder!

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Avocado Smoothie

This avocado smoothie is my latest obsession. Avocado is packed with healthy fats and is the secret to an ultra-rich, dessert-like smoothie!

Course Breakfast, Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 drink (about 1.5 cups)

Calories 297kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• Small Blender

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup frozen avocado $1.61
• 1 Tbsp agave $0.14
• 1/2 frozen ripe banana $0.41
• 1/2 cup OJ $0.60
• 1 Tbsp lime juice $0.04

Instructions

• Blend ingredients together until smooth. Serve ice cold!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 297kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 8mg | Fiber: 7g

how to make An Avocado Smoothie – step by step photos

Blend 1/2 cup frozen avocado, 1 Tbsp agave syrup, 1/2 of a frozen ripe banana, 1/2 cup OJ, and 1 Tbsp lime juice together until smooth. Serve ice cold!

This creamy and refreshing avocado smoothie is the best way to start your morning or rescue you mid-day!

The post Avocado Smoothie appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Why Sheet Pan Pancakes?

I’m not sure if your family loves pancakes as much as mine, but it has now turned into our Saturday morning routine. But flipping and making several batches of regular pancakes takes quite a while. And I have to try and keep the first few batches warm in the oven, while I make the rest of the pancakes. Sheet Pan Pancakes keeps you from having to do that back and forth dance. You can make pancakes for the whole family in one big batch, all on one baking sheet, and customize it with their favorite mix-ins and toppings. It’s honestly genius!

More Toppings and Mix-in Ideas

How To Store & Freeze Sheet Pan Pancakes

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Sheet Pan Pancakes

These sheet pan pancakes make breakfast on weekends a breeze! They’re easy to whip up and they’re freezer-friendly. Perfect for breakfast meal prep!

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Total Cost $2.22 recipe / $0.55 serving

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 (2 pancakes each)

Calories 467kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour $0.40
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar $0.10
• 1 Tbsp baking powder $0.18
• 3/4 tsp salt $0.08
• 1 1/2 cup milk $0.30
• 2 large eggs $0.33
• 4 Tbsp butter, melted $0.53
• 1 tsp vanilla extract $0.30
• cooking spray

Optional Toppings*

• fresh strawberries, sliced
• blueberries
• chocolate chips
• peanut butter and fruit jam

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• In the same bowl, add in the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk the wet ingredients together with the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.
• Generously coat a 11×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Pour the pancake batter onto the baking sheet. Spread the batter evenly around the baking sheet with a rubber spatula or tap the pan a few times on the counter to even out the batter.
• Visually divide the pancake batter into four equal sections and add your desired toppings on top into each section. I used a combination of sliced strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, and a peanut butter and raspberry jam swirl. To make the pb&j swirl, I simply added dollops of natural peanut butter and jam, then swirled the two together using a toothpick.
• Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Allow the pan to cool slightly, then slice the sheet pan pancake into 8 equal portions. Feel free to make smaller slices if you want to make more servings. Serve warm with syrup and extra toppings if you like. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*I added about 1/4 cup of chocolate chips and blueberries. For the strawberries and PB&J swirl, I simply eyeballed it until I filled up each section.

Nutrition

Serving: 2pancakes | Calories: 467kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 17g | Sodium: 912mg | Fiber: 2g

How to Make Sheet Pan Pancakes – Step by Step Photos

Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 Tbsp baking powder, and 3/4 tsp salt.

In the same bowl, add in 1 1/2 cups milk, 2 large eggs, 4 Tbsp melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Whisk the wet ingredients together with the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over mix at this point.

Generously coat an 11×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Pour the pancake batter onto the baking sheet. Spread the batter evenly around the baking sheet with a rubber spatula or tap the pan a few times on the counter to even out the batter.

Visually divide the pancake batter into four equal sections and add your desired toppings on top into each section. I used a combination of sliced strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, and a peanut butter and raspberry jam swirl. To make the pb&j swirl, I simply added dollops of natural peanut butter and jam, then swirled the two together using a toothpick.

Place the sheet pan in the pre-heated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the pan to cool slightly, then slice the sheet pan pancake into 8 equal portions. Feel free to make smaller slices if you want to make more servings. Serve warm with syrup and extra toppings if you like!

These pancakes are super easy to freeze! Just place the cooled pancakes in a freezer safe storage bag, in single layers with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months.

You can easily reheat frozen pancakes in a toaster or in the microwave until hot.

More Pancake Recipes

Dutch Baby

$1.60 recipe / $0.40 serving

Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

$0.95 recipe / $0.24 serving

Ricotta Pancakes

$2.29 recipe / $0.57 serving

Cinnamon Swirl Oven Pancake

$1.72 recipe / $0.43 serving

The post Sheet Pan Pancakes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Spinach And Mushroom Crustless Quiche

Spinach Mushroom and Feta Crustless Quiche

This easy, tasty Spinach Mushroom and Feta Crustless Quiche is low on carbs and big on flavor. This veggie-filled breakfast will keep you full and happy.

4.84 from 278 votes

$5.89 recipe / $0.98 serving Get the Recipe

Quiche is a brunch classic and it’s so much easier than you’d think! We like this Spinach Mushroom and Feta Crustless Quiche version, but you could certainly pour this into a par-baked pie crust as well.

Sweet Potato Hash

Sweet Potato Hash

This easy, one-skillet Sweet Potato Hash is the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors and hearty ingredients. It's great for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

5 from 6 votes

$5.36 recipe / $0.89 serving Get the Recipe

A little bit savory, a little bit sweet, this one-skillet Sweet Potato Hash is the perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch table.

Dutch Baby

Dutch Baby

This Dutch Baby recipe looks super fancy, but is so easy to make! Perfect anytime you want an extra special breakfast or weekend brunch.

5 from 14 votes

$1.60 recipe / $0.40 serving Get the Recipe

If you really want to impress your guests for breakfast or show off for a Mother’s Day brunch, then you have to make this Dutch Baby recipe! It’s thin, light, super easy to make and an absolute showstopper!

Salsa Poached Eggs

Salsa Poached Eggs

These salsa poached eggs are like a southwest spin on shakshuka. Eggs poached in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce with green chiles.

4.50 from 16 votes

$3.96 recipe / $0.99 serving Get the Recipe

If you love shakshuka, then you’ll love this Salsa Poached Eggs recipe! It’s a southwest spin on the classic poached eggs in tomato sauce!

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This deliciously cheesy sausage breakfast casserole is easy to throw together when you need a filling breakfast to feed a crowd.

4.84 from 6 votes

$10.93 recipe / $1.82 serving Get the Recipe

If you’ve got a crowd to feed, this easy Sausage Breakfast Casserole gets the job done!

Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Galette

Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Galette

This rustic Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Galette is a simple dessert that can be made with frozen or fresh berries. Easier than pie! 

4.88 from 16 votes

$5.00 recipe / $0.83 serving Get the Recipe

Why make a bunch of little danishes when you can make one big MONSTER danish?? Galettes are a super simple, rustic version of a pie and this Lemon Blueberry Galette is filled with a little cream cheese, blueberries, and bright lemon. So delish!

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These incredibly delicious homemade cinnamon rolls have soft, buttery layers of cinnamon and sugar topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. 

4.58 from 7 votes

$4.59 recipe / $0.51 each Get the Recipe

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls??…umm, yes please!! Trust me, these fluffy, buttery, and gooey cinnamon rolls will not last long at your brunch gathering.

Crispy Baked Bacon

How to Cook Bacon in the Oven

Learn how to cook bacon in the oven with very little effort and no hot splattering bacon grease! Perfect, crispy bacon in the oven every time.

4.93 from 14 votes

Get the Recipe

When you’re putting together a big brunch, you’ll want to use a hands-off cooking method for your bacon like this Crispy Baked Bacon, so you can tend to the rest of the meal.

Cheese Grits

Cheese Grits

These cheese grits are extra rich, creamy, and flavorful. They make a hearty and comforting breakfast or a delicious side dish with dinner.

5 from 8 votes

$3.39 recipe / $0.85 serving Get the Recipe

For an extra cozy weekend brunch, make sure to whip up a batch of these rich and cheesy grits!

Air Fryer Potatoes

Air Fryer Potatoes

Air fryer potatoes are soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and made for dipping. They're the perfect side for any meal!

5 from 2 votes

$3.60 recipe / $0.90 serving Get the Recipe

You can’t have breakfast or brunch without some type of potatoes. These Air Fryer Potatoes are a must and so easy to make! Just chop, season, and pop them in the air fryer while you work on the rest of your breakfast menu.

Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding (also known as French Toast Casserole) is a rich and sweet breakfast treat or after-dinner dessert!

 

4.89 from 9 votes

$4.22 recipe / $0.70 serving Get the Recipe

Cozy, sweet, and rich, this Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding will fill your house with all the cozy aromas!

Country Sausage Gravy

Country Sausage Gravy

Make this easy Country Sausage Gravy from scratch in under 20 minutes for a hearty southern style breakfast at home.

4.91 from 20 votes

$2.53 recipe / $0.63 serving Get the Recipe

If you’re in the south, you can’t have a weekend breakfast or brunch without some rich and cozy Country Sausage Gravy!🙌

Smoky White Bean Shakshuka

Smoky White Bean Shakshuka

Eggs poached in a rich and smoky tomato sauce speckled with white beans, this Smoky White Bean Shakshuka is a filling and inexpensive breakfast or dinner! BudgetBytes.com

4.86 from 68 votes

$6.49 recipe / $1.62 serving Get the Recipe

If you’re team #savorybreakfast you’re going to love this single skillet Smoky White Bean Shakshuka. But make sure you get some really good quality bread to dip into that gorgeous tomato sauce!

Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

This easy homemade pancake recipe makes the most delicious and fluffy stack of pancakes around! Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast.

4.35 from 35 votes

$0.95 recipe / $0.24 serving Get the Recipe

Homemade pancakes are a classic and a must-have for any breakfast or brunch gathering. These fluffy pancakes are perfectly golden, easy to make, and can be topped with lots of fun toppings!

Brown Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwiches

Brown Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwiches with Chipotle Mayo

Brown Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwiches with Chipotle Mayo are the perfect mix of salty, sweet, and spicy for your weekend brunch.

4.73 from 18 votes

$9.80 recipe / $2.45 per sandwich Get the Recipe

These aren’t just any breakfast sandwiches, these are special weekend brunch-approved breakfast sandwiches! The sweet and salty brown sugar bacon pairs perfectly with the smoky and spicy chipotle mayo, and it’s all stuffed inside a soft and sweet brioche bun. This is how you do brunch.

Easy Quiche Lorraine

Easy Quiche Lorraine

You're going to love this silky, savory, and ridiculously Easy Quiche Lorraine! The puff pastry crust makes it absolutely effortless!

5 from 6 votes

$10.13 recipe / $1.27 serving Get the Recipe

This Easy Quiche Lorraine will steal the show at your next brunch gathering. It’s silky, savory, flavorful, and so delicious.

Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot Cake Muffins

These soft, fluffy, and moist carrot cake muffins are full of delicious carrot cake flavor and the perfect sweet treat any time of the day!

5 from 11 votes

$4.55 recipe / $0.45 each Get the Recipe

These Carrot Cake Muffins are fluffy, super moist, and the perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch menu!

French Toast

French Toast

This easy French Toast recipe makes the perfect light, fluffy, and golden brown French toast, perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.

5 from 6 votes

$3.69 recipe / $0.92 serving Get the Recipe

I can’t think of a better way to enjoy a simple breakfast or brunch than with crispy, fluffy, custardy slices of French Toast. They have just the right amount of sweetness and they’re perfect drizzled with some warm maple syrup.

Easy Hollandaise Sauce

Easy Hollandaise Sauce

An easy, no-fail method for making homemade hollandaise sauce in just minutes. Anyone can make this rich and creamy lemon butter sauce!

4.48 from 71 votes

$0.72 recipe / $0.36 serving Get the Recipe

Whether you’re making eggs benedict or you just want to drizzle some of this creamy sauce over your favorite vegetables, no brunch is complete without Hollandaise sauce!

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and Cheese Sliders

These easy Ham and Cheese Sliders are a must-have for parties! They’re buttery, sweet, salty, gooey, and insanely delicious!

5 from 8 votes

$11.09 recipe / $1.84 serving Get the Recipe

These buttery Ham and Cheese Sliders can be served for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner! They’re a huge favorite at family gatherings and they’re absolutely perfect to add to your brunch menu!

More Recipe Roundups

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The post Best Brunch Recipes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Why Make Potatoes in the Air Fryer?

Listen, we love roasted potatoes. They’re simple and delicious. But sometimes you need potatoes right now, and roasting just isn’t quick enough. Using an air fryer, these potatoes are roasted to perfection in less than half the time. So, the next time you have a potato emergency, this air fryer potato recipe is here for you. You can thank us later!

Should I Soak the Potatoes?

We did not do this, but cutting and soaking potatoes in cold water releases some of the starches and can make the potatoes crispier! Our potatoes were more like tiny bites of the perfect baked potato!

What To Serve With Air Fryer Potatoes

Print

Air Fryer Potatoes

Air fryer potatoes are soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and made for dipping. They're the perfect side for any meal!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Total Cost $3.60 recipe / $0.90 serving

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 106kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 1 lb. baby potatoes, quartered $3.16
• 1/2 Tbsp olive oil $0.09
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder $0.05
• 1/2 tsp onion powder $0.05
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika $0.10
• 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste $0.10
• 1 tsp freshly chopped parsley, for garnish $0.05

Instructions

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 4 minutes. Wash and quarter the baby potatoes.
• Add the potatoes to a large bowl. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.
• Cook for 15 minutes in the air fryer, until golden brown with crispy edges, stopping halfway through to shake.
• Garnish with minced parsley and additional salt and pepper, if needed.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 106kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 17mg | Fiber: 3g

how to make Air Fryer Potatoes – step by step photos

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 4 minutes. Quarter 1 lb. of baby potatoes.

Add the potatoes to a large bowl. Toss the quartered baby potatoes with 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cook for 15 minutes in the air fryer, until golden brown with crispy edges, stopping halfway through to shake. Garnish with 1 tsp minced fresh parsley and additional salt and pepper, if needed.

These air fryer potatoes are the ultimate crispy side dish!

More Air Fryer Recipes

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

$4.64 recipe / $1.16 serving

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

$1.13 recipe / $0.56 serving

Air Fryer Chicken Wings

$4.53 recipe/ $2.26 serving

Air Fryer Asparagus

$4.07 recipe / $1.02 serving

The post Air Fryer Potatoes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Topping Ideas

There are lots of fun ways to enjoy your avocado toast! In addition to the recipe variations listed in the step-by-step photos below, here are a few more ingredients and topping ideas for you to try:

• A sprinkle of Everything Bagel Seasoning
• Chopped or crumbled bacon
• Sliced radishes
• Pickled jalapeños
• Pickled red onions
• Sriracha
• Fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley, scallions)

Print

Avocado Toast

A classic avocado toast recipe with 3 easy variations. Perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch or midday snack!

Course Breakfast, Lunch, Snack

Cuisine American

Total Cost $2.61 recipe / $1.30 serving

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 2 slices

Calories 338kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

• 2 slices sturdy bread* $1.00
• 1 clove of garlic, peeled $0.08
• 1 medium avocado $1.33
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice $0.14
• 1/8 tsp salt $0.02
• 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
• pinch of red pepper flakes $0.02

Instructions

• Cut 2 slices of sturdy bread. Toast the bread in a toaster or in a skillet on the stovetop until golden brown.
• Rub the peeled garlic clove over the top of the warm toasted bread, making sure to fully cover the entire surface area.
• Next, halve the avocado and remove the pit. Scoop out the avocado flesh from both halves and place it in a bowl. Add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice (about 1 tsp), salt and pepper to the bowl and mash the avocado with a fork. I recommend leaving it just a little chunky.
• Divide the avocado mixture and spread it on top of each slice of toast. Top with a pinch of red pepper flakes and a pinch of sea salt (optional).

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*I purchased a loaf of bakery sourdough bread so I could get those nice, thick slices. But you can also use pre-sliced sourdough bread from the bread aisle if you want to save a little extra money.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 338kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 16g | Sodium: 539mg | Fiber: 8g

How to Make Avocado Toast – Step by Step Photos

Cut 2 slices of sturdy bread. Toast the bread in a toaster or on the stovetop until golden brown.

Rub 1 peeled garlic clove over the top of the warm toasted bread, making sure to fully cover the entire surface area.

Next, halve 1 avocado and remove the pit. Scoop out the avocado flesh from both halves and place it in a medium bowl. Add a small squeeze of lemon juice (about 1 tsp), 1/8 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper to the bowl and mash the avocado with a fork. I recommend leaving it just a little chunky, but you can certainly mash until it’s completely smooth. It’s up to you!

Divide the avocado mixture and spread on top of each slice of toast. Top with a pinch of red pepper flakes and a pinch of sea salt (optional). Enjoy as is or try out one of the recipe variations listed below.😉

Recipe Variation 1: If you love juicy, ripe tomatoes then this variation is just for you! Top your avocado toast with two slices of tomatoes, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and freshly cracked black pepper. This combo is perfect for the summer when tomatoes are in their peak season. So delicious!

Recipe Variation 2: My absolute favorite way to enjoy avocado toast is by adding some scrambled eggs, a fried egg, or hard boiled egg on top. You can even take it a step further and add a little chili crisp on top too!

Recipe Variation 3: And for all of my cottage cheese lovers out there, try topping your thick crusty bread with a spoonful or two of small curd cottage cheese, 1/2 avocado sliced, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Enjoy!

More Easy Breakfast Recipes

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Mixed Berry Smoothie

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Air Fryer Cinnamon Toast

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Apple Pie Overnight Oats

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The post Avocado Toast appeared first on Budget Bytes.