Time to please the kid inside of all of us with mouthwatering treats straight from your childhood. Whether you’re hankering for some comforting grilled cheese or PB and J, we’ve got all your favourites, albeit, with a grow-up twist to satisfy your adult self. Get ready to taste a bit of nostalgia with these recipes for grown-up versions of your favourite childhood dishes.
Italian Sausage and Pepper Pigs in a Blanket
Another tasty snack gets an adult upgrade with Italian sausage, pesto, provolone and mozzarella. These hot and toasty bites are best served with fresh marinara sauce.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
This timeless pairing combines a creamy but cream-free tomato soup with the best grilled cheese ever. The soup has a secret ingredient which lends to its velvety consistency, while a combination of cheese, sourdough bread and perfect seasoning turn this childhood classic into a five-star masterpiece. You’ll see why grilled cheese and tomato soup go together so well!
Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
Take your mac and cheese game to the next level with this recipe that’s filled with Gruyere, cheddar and blue cheese for maximum flavour and gooey goodness.
Giant Raspberry Slab Pie
This sweet slab pie is really an epic version of your favourite childhood toaster snack.
Peanut Butter and Ice Wine Jelly Bars
This classic salty-sweet combo gets a grown-up twist with a swirl of sweet Niagara ice wine, giving these tasty squares a punch of Canadian flavour.
Brown Butter Crispy Treats
Crispy treats aren’t just for kids! Try this delicious grown-up take on the classic marshmallow treat made with brown butter and kosher salt.
Multigrain Waffles
Three different grains give these simple waffles a light and nutty flavour that pairs perfectly with tangy yogurt and homemade preserves.
Buckwheat Pancakes with Brandied Strawberries with Coconut Whip
Pancakes made without dairy or eggs can still be an indulgent, soul and stomach satisfying weekend brunch. These hearty buckwheat stacks are dressed to impress, with coconut “whipped cream” and juicy berries.
Healthy Overnight French Toast Bake
You know you’re an adult when you prep your meals the night before. Bonus adulting points for this dish that’s sweet and satisfying while keeping the calories in check.
Homemade Pizza with Yummy Broccoli Sauce
A nutritious and delicious way to change up pizza night, this recipe includes a creamy, garlicky broccoli sauce as the base.
Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks
Skip the freezer aisle and make your own fresh and crispy fish sticks so you can bake up a healthy dinner in just a few minutes.
Curried Pork and Cheddar Hot Dogs
Shake (and spice) things up with these homemade pork dogs. Raisins, honey, and cheese heated on the grill create a unique topping with sweet and savory notes. Served on a pita, instead of a bun, these flavor-packed dogs will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Maple-Glazed Drumsticks
Maple syrup and chili sauce combine to create a sweet and spicy main. Serve with anything from roasted veggies and rice to potatoes and corn.
Bake Chips
Slice your veggie of choice super thin and roast in the toaster oven with olive oil, rosemary and a touch of salt for a quick and satisfying snack.
Easy Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Croutons
A childhood classic gets a makeover with this lunchtime treat. Instead of the usual ketchup, a homemade tomato soup to compliment tiny grilled cheese sandwiches packs in the vegetables — and fun factor.
Jalapeño ’n’ Cheese Cornbread Waffle Burgers
Reinvent the classic hamburger with these sausage and bacon patties topped with BBQ mayo and a fried egg, all loaded onto a spicy cornbread waffle bun.
Holiday Hot Chocolate
Warm yourself from the inside out with this creamy white chocolate that gets a boost of flavour from fresh vanilla beans. A dash of orange liqueur turns this hot chocolate into a true holiday treat.
Fried Zucchini
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to French fries, Giada’s got you covered with this easy yet undeniably delicious recipe for crispy fried zucchini sticks.
Jelly-Filled Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting
PB&J like you’ve never had it before. Your inner child will be jumping for joy after one bite of these delicate cupcakes that pack a sweet and sticky surprise. Top with your favourite chocolate-peanut butter candy for added crunch.
Churros French Toast with White Chocolate-Orange Ganache
Light, cinnamon-dusted churros and French toast come together for the ultimate breakfast indulgence that will make you feel like a kid again. Feel free to drizzle the white chocolate-orange ganache over top for an adult version, or use it as a dipping sauce for more kid-friendly fun.
Grown-Up Apricot Newtons
Much better than your fig-filled lunchbox cookies, these fruity treats get a crunchy bite from pistachios, which pairs perfectly with the apricot, honey and golden raisin filling.