The 10 Recipes Readers Loved Most on Slice of Southern in 2025

 

A look back at the 10 recipes readers loved most on A Slice of Southern in 2025—from easy weeknight dinners and fresh salads to comforting classics you cooked again and again.

The 10 Recipes Readers Loved Most on Slice of Southern in 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, I found myself looking back through the recipes you spent the most time with this year—the ones you searched for, cooked, and came back to again and again. From cozy one-pot dinners to fresh seasonal salads and a surprise breakfast favorite that truly ran away with the year, these dishes quietly tell the story of how we cooked in real life: practical, comforting, and full of flavor. These are the recipes that stood out not because they were flashy, but because they worked—and because you welcomed them into your kitchens.

Most Loved Recipe of 2025

Tomato-Mozzarella Scrambled Eggs – A Savory Morning Upgrade

Why readers loved it: Simple ingredients and big flavor made this an easy, elevated breakfast readers kept coming back to.

Best Weeknight Dinner

One-Pot Ground Beef & Orzo in 30 Minutes

Why readers loved it: This weeknight-friendly, one-pot meal delivered comfort and convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Southern Comfort Classic

Southern Skillet Cornbread: Buttery, Golden, & Irresistible

Why readers loved it: A classic Southern staple with crisp edges and a tender crumb that fits just as well on a weeknight table as a holiday spread.

Most Popular Salad

Late Summer Fig Salad with Cucumbers & Feta

Why readers loved it: Sweet figs, crisp cucumbers, and salty feta struck the perfect balance of fresh and satisfying.

Most Impressive (But Approachable)

Rustic Tomato Galette with Gruyère & Thyme

Why readers loved it: This savory galette felt special enough for entertaining but approachable enough for home cooks.

Sleeper Hit of the Year

Leftovers Transformed: Pearl Couscous Risotto with Chicken & Greens

Why readers loved it: A creative, resourceful way to turn leftovers into something comforting and completely new.

Bold Weeknight Favorite

Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet – Light, Bold, and Low-Carb

Why readers loved it: Bold Cajun flavor and a quick skillet method made this a standout for easy, flavor-packed dinners.

Best Protein-Packed Salad

The Ultimate Summer Steak Salad with Zesty Avocado Chimichurri

Why readers loved it: Hearty enough for dinner, fresh enough for warm weather, this salad checked all the boxes.

Best Seasonal Recipe

Summer Stone Fruit Salad with Two Dressings to Love

Why readers loved it: The option of two dressings gave readers flexibility while letting peak-season fruit shine.

Comfort Pasta Favorite 

Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera

Why readers loved it: Bright lemon, fresh herbs, and creamy pasta came together in a comforting dish that still felt light.

Can’t wait to see what we’ll be cooking together in 2026! Save your favorites and get ready for more cozy, flavorful recipes.

I Tried Making My Favorite Coffee Shop Pumpkin Bread at Home… and It’s Better

 

The pumpkin chocolate chip loaf everyone will want a slice of. Easy, moist, and cozy—just like the coffee shop version, only better.

I Tried Making My Favorite Coffee Shop Pumpkin Bread at Home… and It’s Better

If you’ve ever eyed those irresistible pumpkin chocolate chip loaves at your coffee shop and wished you could bring one home, this bakery-style quickbread is your answer. Imagine that first slice: tender, moist, and packed with warm spices, dotted with melty chocolate chips in every bite. Now you don’t have to wait in line—you can enjoy that café-style indulgence fresh from your own oven.

What makes this loaf feel so special isn’t complicated—it’s all about the perfect balance of pumpkin, brown sugar, and chocolate chips baked into a tall, tender bread with a soft, slightly caramelized crust. The pumpkin keeps it moist, the spices make every bite cozy, and the chocolate chips add just the right amount of sweetness to make it feel indulgent without being over the top. Plus, it’s simple to make: one bowl, a whisk, and a little patience while it bakes to perfection.

Whether you’re slicing it for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break, this bakery-style pumpkin chocolate chip bread delivers that café-worthy experience at home. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and irresistibly soft—a recipe you’ll reach for every fall. So preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake a loaf that tastes just like your favorite coffee shop treat…only better.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Pumpkin puree – The star of the loaf, providing moisture, flavor, and that cozy fall vibe.

• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients together and give the bread structure.

• Vegetable oil – Keeps the loaf tender and moist; adds richness without overpowering flavor.

• Brown sugar – Adds natural sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.

• Granulated sugar – Balances sweetness and helps create a light texture.

• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the loaf while keeping it soft.

• Pumpkin pie spice – Infuses warm, classic fall flavors.

• Baking soda & baking powder – Give the bread lift and a light, fluffy texture.

• Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the loaf.

• Chocolate chips – Melty pockets of chocolate that make each slice indulgent; can also sprinkle extra on top for visual appeal.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Oil substitution: Melted butter or coconut oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
• Sugar substitution: Coconut sugar, maple sugar, or a sugar blend can replace brown or granulated sugar.
• Pumpkin pie spice substitution: For 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, mix:

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
• ⅛ tsp ground cloves

• Flour substitution: All-purpose flour can be swapped for a gluten-free flour blend (1:1) or swap 2/3 whole wheat flour for part of the all purpose flour for a heartier loaf.

Variations:

• Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate chips for added crunch.

• Spiced Mocha Bread: Add 1–2 tsp instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter for a subtle mocha twist.

Kitchen Notes and Tips

• Use fresh pumpkin puree or canned 100% pumpkin for the best flavor and texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter—fold ingredients until just combined to keep the loaf tender.

• For a taller loaf, use a 9x5-inch pan and bake a bit longer, covering with foil if the top browns too fast.

• Test doneness with a toothpick in the center; moist crumbs are fine, wet batter is not.

• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean, even slices.

• Optional: Warm slices slightly before serving to melt chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

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Easy Make-Ahead Applesauce Oatmeal Bread (Perfect for a Thanksgiving Breakfast Board)

 

Bake this Easy Make-Ahead Applesauce Oatmeal Bread ahead of Thanksgiving and wake up to a cozy, stress-free breakfast board.

Easy Make-Ahead Applesauce Oatmeal Bread (Perfect for a Thanksgiving Breakfast Board)

Thanksgiving morning should feel cozy, calm, and full of anticipation—not rushed or stressful. Between the oven timers, last-minute side dishes, and the smell of pumpkin pie in the air, it’s easy for breakfast to get lost in the shuffle. That’s why I love this Easy Make-Ahead Applesauce Oatmeal Bread.

Baked ahead and stored in the freezer, this warm, spiced loaf can be sliced and ready to enjoy with minimal effort. Simply place it on the counter to thaw the night before Thanksgiving.  In the morning, you can slice it, warm it up, and place it on a board with butter, jams, fresh fruit, and nuts, and you’ve got a beautiful, stress-free breakfast spread that will delight everyone without adding to the day’s chaos.

It’s the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and cozy fall flavors, making it a small but meaningful way to start the holiday right—relaxed, happy, and full of anticipation for the feast to come.

Why This Bread Works

There are a few reasons this Applesauce Oatmeal Bread has become my go-to for Thanksgiving morning:

1. Easy to Prep
   The ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly—flour, oats, applesauce, warm spices, and a handful of walnuts. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients takes just a few minutes, so even a busy weeknight or weekend morning is no problem.

2. Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly
   One of the biggest advantages is that you can bake this loaf ahead of time. Once it’s cooled, it freezes beautifully, wrapped tightly to lock in freshness. The night before Thanksgiving remove from the freezer and thaw overnight on the counter, and you’re ready to slice and serve—no extra kitchen stress required.

3. Warm, Cozy Flavors
   Cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and oats give this loaf that quintessential fall flavor, while applesauce keeps it moist without being heavy. Each bite feels comforting and homey, making it perfect for a holiday morning.

4. Slices Beautifully for Serving
   Unlike some quick breads that crumble or fall apart, this loaf holds together well. That makes it ideal for a Thanksgiving breakfast board, where slices can be arranged alongside butter, jam, fresh fruit, and nuts for a simple but elegant presentation.

5. Versatile for Any Morning
   While it shines on Thanksgiving, this bread is just as wonderful for weekend breakfasts, brunches, or even as an afternoon snack. Once you know the convenience of a make-ahead loaf, it’s hard to go back to scrambling on busy mornings.

Make-Ahead + Freezer Instructions

One of the best things about this Applesauce Oatmeal Bread is how perfectly it lends itself to make-ahead planning—which is a lifesaver on Thanksgiving morning. Here’s how to prep it in advance:

Baking Ahead  (I often make this the weekend before Thanksgiving)

• Prepare the loaf according to the recipe instructions and let it cool completely. (recipe below)

• Once cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil for extra protection.

Freezing

• The loaf can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• If you like, slice the bread before freezing—this makes it easy to grab exactly how many slices you need without thawing the whole loaf. I often leave the loaf whole and thaw the entire loaf so we can eat it throughout the Thanksgiving weekend. (if there is any left!)

Thawing

• The night before Thanksgiving, remove the wrapped loaf from the freezer and place it on the counter to thaw overnight.

• If you prefer warm slices, place individual slices or the whole loaf in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes until heated through.

Breakfast Board Ideas

This Applesauce Oatmeal Bread is not just delicious—it’s beautifully versatile and makes a stunning centerpiece for a simple Thanksgiving morning breakfast board. Here are some ideas to turn your loaf into a festive, stress-free spread:

1. Sliced Bread as the Anchor

• Slice the loaf evenly and arrange the pieces on a board or platter.

• Sprinkle a few extra oats or chopped nuts on top for a rustic, cozy look.

2. Add Spreads and Toppings

• Butter & Softened Cream Cheese – classic and comforting.

• Jams or Fruit Preserves – try apple, pear, or spiced cranberry for a seasonal touch.

• Nut Butters – almond or walnut butter pairs beautifully with the flavors in the bread.

3. Fresh Fruit

• Seasonal fruits like apple slices, grapes, pears, or berries add color, freshness, and a natural sweetness.

4. Crunchy Accents

• A bowl of nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds add texture.

• Mini granola clusters or lightly spiced roasted nuts also work well.

5. Extras for Variety

• Mini muffins, yogurt cups, or small pastries can complement the loaf.

• Warm drinks such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or spiced cider round out the board and make the table feel festive.

Pro Tip: Gather your other board items the night before if possible—you can place them in containers or ziploc bags and refrigerate those that require it. That way, Thanksgiving morning is as effortless as it is beautiful.

With these simple touches, your breakfast board will feel elegant, inviting, and stress-free, while letting your make-ahead Applesauce Oatmeal Bread shine as the star of the morning.

What Ingredients Do I Need

This Easy Make-Ahead Applesauce Oatmeal Bread uses simple pantry staples and a few cozy, fall-inspired ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Wet Ingredients

• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness without overpowering the warm spices

• Eggs – bind the loaf and give structure

• Vegetable oil – keeps the bread moist (I used canola oil)

• Vanilla extract or boiled cider – adds warmth and seasonal aroma (I used boiled cider - it adds a punch of apple flavor)

• Applesauce (unsweetened) – naturally sweet, adds moisture, and keeps the bread tender

Dry Ingredients

• Golden wheat flour – for a subtle, nutty flavor (this is white wheat flour)

• Unbleached all-purpose flour – adds structure

• Baking powder & baking soda – help the loaf rise perfectly

• Cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg – warm fall spices that make this bread smell like the holidays

• Salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor

• Quick-cooking oats – add texture and heartiness

Optional Add-Ins

• Chopped walnuts – for crunch and extra flavor

• Extra oats or nuts for topping – make the loaf look rustic and festive

Note: Most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry. The applesauce, spices, and nuts give this loaf its cozy, Thanksgiving feel without any complicated steps.

Kitchen Tips & Variations

Kitchen Tips

• Use unsweetened applesauce for the best texture and balanced sweetness — sweetened versions can make the loaf overly soft.

• Don’t skip the oats on top. They add a rustic, cozy finish that looks great for breakfast boards.

• Check for doneness early. Every oven is different — start testing at the 50-minute mark.

• Let it cool fully before slicing. This helps the crumb set and prevents crumbling, especially if you plan to freeze it.

Variations

• Cranberry Twist: Fold in ½ cup dried cranberries for a festive pop of color and tang.

• Maple Glaze: Drizzle a light maple icing over the cooled loaf for extra holiday sweetness.

• Nut-Free Version: Swap walnuts for pepitas or omit them altogether for nut free serving.

• Apple Chunk Upgrade: Add ½ cup small diced apples for more texture and extra juicy apple flavor.

Thanksgiving morning doesn’t have to feel rushed — especially when you’ve already baked something cozy, wholesome, and ready to slice. This Applesauce Oatmeal Bread is your little gift to yourself and your family: thaw it overnight, brew the coffee, and ease into the holiday with something homemade and stress-free.

If you build a breakfast board this year, I’d love to hear how you styled it! Share your ideas, your spreads, or photos of your board in the comments — especially if this bread becomes the anchor. Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy every slow, delicious moment of the morning.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

These Biscuits Belong on Your Thanksgiving Table — King Arthur Biscuit Flour Blend Review

 

Discover whether King Arthur’s Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend is worth adding to your Thanksgiving menu. I tested this mix to see if it delivers tender, flaky biscuits without the fuss — perfect for holiday shortcuts and cozy, semi-homemade baking.

These Biscuits Belong on Your Thanksgiving Table — King Arthur Biscuit Flour Blend Review

I’ve been making biscuits since I was little — the kind where you stand on a chair at the kitchen counter, hands dusted with flour, waiting for Mom or Grandma to say, “Okay, your turn.” Over the years, I’ve shared plenty of biscuit recipes on the blog, from fluffy classics to drop-style shortcuts, and I still love making them completely from scratch.

But I’m also not opposed to a little help from a mix. Sometimes a shortcut is exactly what you need, especially when you’re juggling a long Thanksgiving menu and trying to get everything on the table warm at the same time. That’s what made me curious about King Arthur’s Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend — a pre-mixed combination of soft wheat flour, buttermilk powder, baking powder, and salt, all ready to go. Could it give me that tender, flaky, homemade feel without measuring a dozen ingredients?

So today’s post is part review, part kitchen experiment, and part holiday prep strategy. Let’s see if this biscuit blend really earns a spot on your Thanksgiving table.

What is This Product?

King Arthur’s Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend is a premixed blend of soft wheat flour, buttermilk powder, baking powder, and salt designed to make biscuits easier to bake at home. Instead of measuring separate ingredients or worrying about how much leavening to add, this mix gives you a reliable base for tender, flaky biscuits every time.

The blend is versatile enough for classic round biscuits, drop biscuits, or even sweet variations like shortcakes. You just add your fat of choice — butter or cream — and liquid, mix, and bake. For anyone who loves biscuits but wants a little help along the way, it feels like a smart shortcut that doesn’t compromise on texture or flavor.

The Difference Between These Biscuits and Regular Biscuits

What makes these biscuits special? I’ll admit, I’m not a professional biscuit baker, but I’ve made plenty from scratch over the years — flaky, tender, and sometimes… not quite perfect. Using King Arthur’s Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend is a little different, but in a good way.

The main differences are simple: the buttermilk powder adds flavor and a slight tang, while the pre-measured leavening ensures consistent rise every time. The result is light, flaky layers that hold together without being dense, even if you’re a casual home baker. You don’t need special tools — a standard mixing bowl and your favorite butter or cream are all it takes to get biscuits that feel like they belong in a bakery.

    My Biscuit Blend Review    

After testing King Arthur’s Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend, here’s my honest take — what worked beautifully and a couple of small tips to keep in mind for perfect biscuits every time.

What I Liked

1. Easy to Use: This mix takes the guesswork out of biscuit baking. Since the buttermilk is already included, I didn’t need to measure separate powders or worry about freshness. A cutting in of butter and a little liquid, and the dough was done! 

2. Flaky, Tender Texture: The biscuits baked up beautifully: tender, soft, and layered just right. Even after cooling, they stayed light and fluffy, not dense or heavy. I was impressed by how close the texture came to a fully scratch-made biscuit.

3. Delicious Buttermilk Flavor: The blend has a gentle tang from the buttermilk powder that gives a comforting, homemade taste. 

4. Versatility: King Arthur has created a blend that you can use in any biscuit recipe that calls for all-purpose flour.  Here's how:  For every 1 cup of flour, replace with 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend. Omit salt and baking powder.

What I’d Change

Honestly, there’s not much I would change about this product — it does exactly what it promises. If I had to pick one thing, it would be the amount of product you get; I would vote for a larger quantity because it's that good and I can see many ways I can use this mix and a 2.5 pound bag will not last long!  It’s completely worth buying. For a stress-free Thanksgiving, this blend is a blessing.  You may purchase yours here.

How to Achieve Flaky Layers in Your Biscuits

I'll provide the 3 Ingredient Biscuit recipe that King Arthur uses for this biscuit flour mix below.  Here's a tip on how to achieve those flaky layers. 

If you love a biscuit with light, delicate layers, this technique is a game-changer — and it’s easier than it sounds.

After mixing your dough, transfer it to a well-floured surface and sprinkle a little extra flour on top. Press the dough down to about 1 inch thick, then fold it over onto itself and rotate it 90° (a quarter turn). Repeat this flattening, folding, and turning process three more times. Each fold creates layers that puff up beautifully when baked, giving you that tender, flaky texture.

A couple of tips: handle the dough as minimally as possible — overworking it can make the biscuits tough. If the dough starts sticking, stop, remove any stuck bits, and lightly flour the surface before continuing. This method takes a little patience, but the flaky, bakery-style biscuits you get in the end are totally worth it — and it works beautifully with King Arthur’s Buttermilk Biscuit Flour Blend.

Is it worth putting on your Thanksgiving table? 

Absolutely. These biscuits are tender, flaky, and flavorful — and the convenience of the blend means you can focus on the rest of your holiday menu without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re making classic biscuits for gravy, drop biscuits for your kids, or sweet shortcakes for dessert, this mix is a reliable, semi-homemade solution. I’d buy it again in a heartbeat and plan to explore more recipes with it after Thanksgiving — because sometimes a little shortcut makes all the difference, and your family will love them either way.

Enjoy your holiday!