50 Make-Ahead Cottage Dishes That Will Last All Weekend

Posted on August 27, 2018 by Jenny Potter, Updated on May 12, 2019 by Brittany Devenyi

Weekends away at the cottage should be about rest and relaxation, which is why you’ll be glad you made these delicious dishes in advance. From portable breakfast dishes (read: Ina Garten's popular strawberry muffins) to main meals (like harissa marinated chicken skewers), enjoy that much-needed downtime with these make-ahead recipes.

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Veggie-Packed Breakfast Frittata

This nutritious frittata offers protein, veggies and healthy fats in one make-ahead slice. Pack this up to enjoy warm or chilled – it tastes great at any temperature. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/whole30-veggie-packed-breakfast-frittata/21474/" target="_blank">Whole30 Veggie-Packed Breakfast Frittata</a>
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Instant Pot Mini Frittatas

These bite-sized frittatas are a must-make brunch appetizer to feed a crowd. This recipe calls for bacon, mushrooms, spinach and cheese, but feel free to experiment with veggies and make them your own! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-mini-frittatas/22289/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Mini Frittatas</a>
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Wafflemaker Hash Browns

Two popular breakfast staples merge to become one even-better morning side dish – and we're all for it. These hash browns in waffle form, developed by The Pioneer Woman herself, feature ham and cheese, but you can omit if you prefer to keep it basic. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/wafflemaker-hash-browns/20841/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's Wafflemaker Hash Browns</a>
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Healthy Blueberry-Carrot Muffins

The best cottage breakfast spreads have a healthy mix of everything: indulgent elements and more nutritious fare, like these fruit-and-veggie muffins. They boast good-for-you coconut oil and whole-wheat flour. Swap the light-brown sugar for a few tablespoons of maple syrup. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/recipe/healthy-blueberry-carrot-muffins/22240/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Healthy Blueberry-Carrot Muffins</a>
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Ina Garten's Strawberry Muffins

Count on Ina Garten to devise the perfect warm-weather muffin recipe that keeps things simple (a cottage essential). Diced fresh strawberries and a dash of cinnamon take these baked goods from standard to scrumptious. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/strawberry-muffins/22134/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Strawberry Muffins</a>
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The Pioneer Woman’s Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Early birds can watch the sun rise from the dock with a mug of hot coffee and one of these sweet berry breakfast bars. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/strawberry-oatmeal-bars/16648/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Strawberry Oatmeal Bars</a>
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Blueberry, Maple and Bacon Croissant Casserole

Allow us to introduce you to the heavenly breakfast casserole you've been missing all your life. Featuring leftover croissants, bacon, frozen wild blueberries and maple syrup, the make-ahead dish will have guests salivating for a second serving. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/blueberry-maple-bacon-croissant-casserole/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Blueberry, Maple and Bacon Croissant Casserole</a>
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Choco-Chunky Banana Bread

Bananas are both blended into the batter and baked in soft, chewy chunks in this tasty loaf that is also loaded with swirls of chocolate. Moist, easy and sweet. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/choco-chunky-banana-bread/19725/" target="_blank">Choco-Chunky Banana Bread</a>
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Strawberry-Banana Cereal Treats

Freeze-dried strawberries and bananas give a punch of fruity flavour to these sweet and crunchy squares. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/strawberry-banana-cereal-treats/19045/" target="_blank">Strawberry-Banana Cereal Treats</a>
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Black Bean Beet Hummus

This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-hummus-dip-recipes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">creamy hummus</a> replaces the usual suspect (chickpeas) with protein- and fibre-rich black beans and magenta beets. Served with whole-grain pita or crudités, it’s a pretty, wholesome appetizer that'll give your garden blooms a run for their money. Get the recipes for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/bright-and-beautiful-beet-hummus/" target="_blank">Black Bean Beet Hummus</a>
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Crudites with Preserved Lemon Guacamole

Sunshiny preserved lemons offer a surprise whack of salty, fermented citrus tang to the classic guacamole recipe. Full of healthy fats, fibre and potassium, this dip’s health benefits are mere side perks – its taste alone will steal the show. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/spring-appetizer-crudites-with-preserved-lemon-guacamole/" target="_blank">Crudites with Preserved Lemon Guacamole</a>
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Lightened-Up Slow Cooker Chicken Buffalo Dip

Meet the creative, make-ahead dip recipe you should always have in your back pocket. Bonus: it can me made in the slow cooker for minimal effort (and maximum flavour reward). Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lightened-up-slow-cooker-chicken-buffalo-dip/21822/" target="_blank"> Lightened-Up Slow Cooker Chicken Buffalo Dip</a>
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Roasted Spiced Almonds

A handful of these savoury almonds provides vitamin E, fibre, protein and healthy fats for a satisfying, wholesome snack. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-spiced-almonds/14723/" target="_blank">Roasted Spiced Almonds</a>
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Crispy Spiced Chickpeas

Looking for a savoury snack that's not chips or popcorn? These crispy fried <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-eating/photos/new-unique-chickpea-recipes/" target="_blank">chickpeas</a> seasoned with a spicy chili-lime salt will satisfy your craving. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crispy-spiced-chickpeas/21343/" target="_blank">Crispy Spiced Chickpeas</a>
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Chili Lime Party Mix

Prepping for a party? Make your own party mix! Easy to make and customize according to what you like in your mix, this is a great snack to have on hand. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/valeries-home-cooking/recipe/chile-lime-party-mix/21153/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli’s Chili Lime Party Mix</a>
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Brown Rice Crispy Treats

Use puffed brown rice or another gluten-free puffed grain (millet, amaranth and quinoa will all work) to create a lightly sweet, wholegrain snack the whole family will love. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/brown-rice-crispy-treats/18737/" target="_blank">Brown Rice Crispy Treats</a>
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The Pioneer Woman’s Cowboy Nachos

Impress a cottage crowd with a surprise tray of spicy, cheesy and meaty nachos. Slow cook the brisket and beans at home, then simply top your nachos, heat and serve dockside. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cowboy-nachos/15524/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Cowboy Nachos</a>
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Grilled Corn and Bean Salad

Smoky barbecued corn gives depth to this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/best-summer-salads-barbecues-picnics/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">colourful summertime salad</a> packed with chickpeas, black beans, green and red pepper and a finely chopped jalapeño for a touch of summer heat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-corn-and-bean-salad/17078/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli’s Grilled Corn and Bean Salad</a>
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Three Bean Salad with Sesame, Garlic and Lemon

Shake up your typical three-bean salad with this flavour-packed recipe from Anna Olson. Crisp, bright edamame, fresh green beans and black beans pair perfectly with a creamy, garlic-y tahini dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/three-bean-salad-with-sesame-garlic-and-lemon/13671//" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Three Bean Salad with Sesame Garlic and Lemon</a>
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Slow Cooker German Potato Salad

This lighter, slow-cooked potato salad swaps the traditional creamy dressing for an apple cider vinegar and grainy mustard-based version. It's the perfect addition to any summer table! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-german-potato-salad/20227/" target="_blank">Slow-Cooker German Salad</a>
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Peach Salsa

 Switch up your typical tomato salsa for this sweet and spicy peach option. Pulse garlic, onions and jalapeños in a food processor with fresh lime juice and chili powder, before adding chopped peaches. Spoon the mixture into Mason jars and voila! You're ready to get snacking. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/peach-salsa/17677/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Peach Salsa</a>
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Pinto Bean Salsa Salad

Creamy avocado, hearty pinto beans, fresh cilantro, corn and tomato make for a quick and healthy winning salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pinto-bean-salsa-salad/18035/" target="_blank">Pinto Bean Salsa Salad</a>
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Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette

This is a true rainbow salad, brightly coloured with a variety of delicious veggies, including sweet potatoes and kale. For a little added protein, toss in some tofu, chicken, salmon, chickpeas, green lentils or navy beans. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-sweet-potato-kale-salad-with-mustard-dill-vinaigrette/15074/">Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette </a>
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Seven Layer Pasta Salad

Made with fresh veggies, farfalle, ham and cheese, this kid-friendly <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/canada-day/photos/best-pasta-salad-recipes/" target="_blank">pasta salad</a> is practically screaming to be served at a summer picnic. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/7-layer-pasta-salad/17997/" target="_blank">Seven Layer Pasta Salad</a>
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Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing

Keep dinner light with a simple pasta flavoured with pesto, lemon juice, parsley, tomatoes, scallions and ricotta cheese. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/30-minute-meals/recipe/pasta-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing/16059/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing</a>
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The Pioneer Woman's Kid-Friendly Pasta Salad

Chock-full of tomatoes, cheddar, green onions and bacon, this creamy pasta salad can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/kid-friendly-pasta-salad/16010/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Kid-Friendly Pasta Salad</a>
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Soba Noodle Salad

Crunchy snap peas, shitake mushrooms and garlic chives are tossed in a gingery vinaigrette with soba noodles. Top with nori pieces and sesame seeds. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/soba-noodle-salad/9581/" target="_blank">Roger Mooking's Soba Noodle Salad</a>
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Colourful Quinoa Salad

A healthier make-ahead cottage meal, this nutritious quinoa salad containing sunflower and pumpkin seeds, together with beans, raw veggies and dried cranberries, is full of crunch. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/colourful-quinoa-salad/18268/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Colourful Quinoa Salad</a>
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The Pioneer Woman’s Lighter Asian Noodle Salad

Zucchini noodles, combined with more veggies, toasted cashews and an addictive Asian-inspired dressing result in a simple salad that’s full of bright, fresh flavours. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lighter-asian-noodle-salad/20681/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Lighter Asian Noodle Salad</a>
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Penne with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

If you're short on time and still need to whip up a quick but filling supper to pack for the cottage, Giada has you covered. Her easy penne recipe takes 25 minutes to make, and is packed with flavour thanks to a homemade sun-dried tomato pesto in place of standard tomato sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/recipe/penne-with-sun-dried-tomato-pesto/21865/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Penne with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto</a>
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Artichoke Pasta Salad

Featuring roast chicken, marinated artichokes, and homemade herb oil, this grown-up pasta salad is even more delicious after its flavours have been left to sit and marinate for a few hours. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/artichoke-pasta-salad/16084/" target="_blank">Alton Brown's Artichoke Pasta Salad</a>
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Coconut Rice with Hoisin-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Get creative in the kitchen with this bright, mouthwatering dish that's ideal to make-ahead for long weekends at the cottage. The meatballs bake with the rice, allowing for oodles of flavour (think garlic, ginger, coconut milk and a hoisin glaze) and tenderness with every bite. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/coconut-rice-with-hoisin-glazed-turkey-meatballs/22398/" target="_blank">Coconut Rice with Hoisin-Glazed Turkey Meatballs</a>
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Anna Olson's Slow Cooker Beef Ragout with Rigatoni

Like many slow cooker recipes, this makes a generous batch of beef ragout, perfect to serve as a hearty pasta sauce, or even as a stew over cooked potatoes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-beef-ragout-with-rigatoni/12810/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Slow Cooker Beef Ragout with Rigatoni</a>
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Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce

Vegetarians and vegans shouldn't be relegated to munching on side dishes alone. Instead, make these delicious falafels ahead of time. Then simply pack the tabbouleh and tahini dressing separately (along with the mini pitas) and assemble at the cottage. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/baked-falafel-sliders-with-tabbouleh-and-maple-tahini-sauce-35387/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce</a>
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Sweet and Tangy BBQ Turkey Thighs

Who says you need to light the grill to enjoy sweet, sticky BBQ? Cranberries and honey combine for the perfectly sweet and sour sauce that smothers the tender turkey for delectable make-ahead sandwiches. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-and-tangy-slow-cooker-bbq-turkey-thighs/20356/" target="_blank">Sweet and Tangy BBQ Turkey Thighs</a>
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Mac and Cheese Casserole

Classic<a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/16-wacky-ways-to-eat-mac-and-cheese" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> mac and cheese</a> is kicked up a few notches thanks to sharp cheddar, grated Gruyère, fresh tomatoes, ground nutmeg and bread crumbs. An easy comfort food fave you can pull together any day of the week. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-mac-and-cheese/15431/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Mac and Cheese recipe</a>
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Beef and Cheddar Casserole

This comforting make-ahead casserole is perfect for chilly cottage nights (it's based off a favourite soup, after all!). The egg noodles, combined with ground beef, grated Parm and cheddar, bell peppers and scallions, is comfort food at its best. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beef-and-cheddar-casserole/19091/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Beef and Cheddar Casserole</a>
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Anna Olson's Chicken Fajita Lasagna

Try this make-ahead lasagna, which uses tortillas in place of pasta — it's a quick and easy alternative to traditional fajitas. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-fajita-lasagna/13646/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Chicken Fajita Lasagna</a>
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Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers with Couscous

Prep these chicken skewers in marinade before you leave so they can soak up all the fiery-hot harissa flavour in the cooler on the way. When you arrive, your chicken will be ready to hit the grill. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/harissa-marinated-chicken-skewers-with-couscous/14072/" target="_blank">Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers with Couscous</a>
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Carolina Barbecue Drumsticks

If you don't have time to grill, tangy Carolina barbecue can be made on the stovetop. These drumsticks can be made ahead and served for quick dinners, or you can take the meat and make delicious pulled chicken sandwiches. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/carolina-barbecue-drumsticks/20707/" target="_blank">Carolina Barbecue Drumsticks</a>
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Sticky Spicy Slow-Cooked Ribs

These sweet and spicy ribs will have everyone licking their fingers (and plates!) clean. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sticky-spicy-slow-cooked-ribs/18162/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Sticky Spicy Slow-Cooked Ribs</a>
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Slow Cooker Pork Tacos

This bright, flavour-packed main includes tender, juicy pulled pork and all your favourite taco toppings. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-pork-tacos/17854/" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Pork Tacos</a>
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Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread

This recipe from Damaris Phillips uses coconut oil and sorghum syrup (substituting for sugar) to create a skillet-baked cornbread that is as moist on the inside as it is crispy on the outside. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cast-iron-skillet-cornbread/17080/" target="_blank">Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread</a>
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Peanut Butter Brownie Coconut Layered Bars

Sweet peanut butter cookies and chewy macaroon layers sandwich deep and delicious brownies for a tasty treat. It’s okay to have seconds (or thirds) of these enticing triple-layer squares. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/peanut-butter-brownie-coconut-layered-bars/19775/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Brownie Coconut Layered Bars</a>
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Pecan Butter Tart Squares

 Forget finicky pastries and whip up a batch of these simple <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/best-canadian-butter-tart-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">butter tart</a> squares instead. Sweet, buttery shortbread acts as the base of these delectable Canadian treats. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pecan-butter-tart-squares/19392/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pecan Butter Tart Squares</a>
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Ree Drummond's Everything Cookies

Sure, you can whip up a batch of your classic chocolate chip, but The Pioneer Woman can do you one better with her Everything Cookies, starring granola, quick oats, apricots, cherries, pecans and raisins. AKA, the new cottage snack staple! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/everything-cookies/21604/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's Everything Cookies</a>
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Ree Drummond's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

One look at these delectable, chocolatey bites will have you drooling. What's more? You can whip them up in under 30 minutes, using pre-packaged cookie dough for the ultimate snack hack. Ree makes it that easy. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-peanut-butter-cup-cookies/20884/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies</a>
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Rainbow Crispy Treats

 These colourful, gooey marshmallow squares are made with white chocolate almond bark, adding a unique and delicious twist on the classic treat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mikes-crispy-treats/17837/" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's Rainbow Crispy Treats</a>
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Maple Chipotle Popcorn

Spicy, sweet and salty, what more could you ask for in a snack? This homemade treat lasts for up to three days in an airtight container but chances are, you’ll polish it off long before then. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/maple-chipotle-popcorn/18269/" target="_blank">Maple Chipotle Popcorn</a>
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The Pioneer Woman's Cookies and Cream Cups

This easy peasy dessert only takes five minutes to make, and uses up all those leftover chocolate sandwich cookies (i.e. Oreos) from your cottage or cabin weekend. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cookies-and-cream-cups/15572/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Cookies and Cream Cups</a>
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