Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes — use a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend.

Do these freeze well?

Yes — freeze after cooling and thaw in the refrigerator.

You can reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Is blackened tuna spicy?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Reduce the cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I grill the tuna instead?

Yes. Grill over high heat for the same amount of time, making sure the grates are well-oiled.

What type of tuna should I use?

Ahi (yellowfin) or sushi-grade tuna works best for searing.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes. The mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Dirty rice has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes. Store dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze Cajun dirty rice?

Yes. Cajun dirty rice freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What meat can I substitute for beef?

Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

Is Cajun cornbread spicy?

Cajun cornbread has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun cornbread ahead of time?

Yes. Cajun cornbread can be baked up to one day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun cornbread?

Yes. Wrap the cornbread tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make Cajun cornbread without cheese?

Yes. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-light version without affecting the texture.

Gumbo is mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning.

Can I make chicken and sausage gumbo ahead of time?

Yes. Gumbo tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze chicken and sausage gumbo?

Yes. Gumbo freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use okra in gumbo?

No. Okra helps thicken gumbo, but you can omit it or use filé powder if preferred.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes spicy?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make Cajun roasted potatoes ahead of time?

They are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Can I use red or russet potatoes?

Yes. Just cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure even roasting.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes vegan?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan as written.

Is Cajun shrimp & grits spicy?

Cajun shrimp and grits has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits ahead of time?

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but the grits can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and creamiest texture.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, whole milk can be used, though the grits will be slightly less rich.

sweets & drinks

Satisfy your sweet tooth and sip something festive. From decadent desserts and holiday cookies to rich hot chocolates and creamy lattes, these treats bring comfort and cheer to every season. Whether you’re baking for a party or relaxing at home, there’s always something to enjoy.

Clear mug of pumpkin spice latte with whipped cream and cinnamon on top, set on a beige cloth. Small pumpkin in the background.

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte (Creamy, Cozy & Better Than the Coffee Shop!)

This Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is creamy, spiced, and made with real pumpkin purée — a cozy fall drink that’s better than Starbucks and easy to make at home!

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Creamy eggnog in a clear mug, topped with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and sprinkled spice. Beige background. Cozy mood.

Classic Homemade Eggnog (Rich, Creamy & Perfectly Spiced)

This Classic Eggnog recipe is smooth, creamy, and filled with holiday flavor — made with eggs, milk, cream, nutmeg, and vanilla. A festive favorite that’s easy to make from scratch!

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Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate (Rich, Creamy & Indulgent)

This Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate is creamy, buttery, and perfectly sweet with a hint of sea salt. A decadent winter drink that tastes like dessert in a mug!

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Gingerbread Hot Chocolate (Cozy, Spiced, and Perfect for the Holidays)

This Gingerbread Hot Chocolate combines creamy cocoa with warm spices, molasses, and a hint of ginger — a festive, cozy drink that tastes just like Christmas!

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Hot chocolate in a brown mug topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, crushed peppermint, and a candy cane. Marshmallows nearby. Cozy mood.

Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate (Creamy, Festive & Irresistible)

This Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate combines rich cocoa, melted chocolate, and crushed candy canes for a creamy, festive treat that tastes like Christmas in a mug!

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Seven chocolate chip cookies on a white plate. The cookies are golden brown and evenly spaced, creating an appetizing and cozy feel.

Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe (Soft, Chewy & Perfect Every Time!)

This classic chocolate chip cookie recipe makes soft, chewy, bakery-style cookies with golden edges and gooey centers. Easy to make in under 30 minutes — the ultimate homemade treat for every cookie lover!

desserts

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