Monthly Favorites: April 2016 – Discovering the Best of the Month!
Hello, My Wonderful Readers!
Today’s blog post brings a delightful twist to our usual content, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share this new journey with you. For several months, I’ve harbored an exciting idea, an inspiration drawn directly from some of my most cherished YouTubers. Yes, you read that right! My fascination with YouTube runs deep, having first blossomed from a simple makeup tutorial that opened up a whole new world. From there, I ventured into the captivating realm of vloggers – particularly those families who share their daily lives – and, of course, a treasure trove of cooking channels.
YouTube is more than just a platform; it’s a vibrant, incredibly active community brimming with talented individuals. They generously share their knowledge, their passions, and glimpses into their lives, inspiring countless others, myself included. My amazing Hubby and I recently embarked on our own YouTube adventure for the Crunchy Creamy Sweet blog, and we are absolutely loving it! Crafting cooking videos is certainly an art that takes practice, and it took us a little while to truly find our unique style, but we’re definitely hitting our stride now. Our biggest challenge? Simply needing more hours in the day to create even more delicious content for you! Don’t miss out on our culinary creations – be sure to follow our channel HERE!
My admiration for YouTube beauty vloggers is immense. It’s safe to say that aside from a handful of mineral makeup staples, virtually every beauty product in my collection has been acquired based on a glowing recommendation from a beauty vlogger. I eagerly anticipate their monthly favorites videos, always discovering new must-try items. And since I’m constantly stumbling upon fantastic new products or receiving exciting PR samples, I thought, “Why not create my own non-sponsored space?” A dedicated spot where I can enthusiastically share my latest discoveries with all of you, much like I do during our casual coffee chats with friends or while our kids play happily at the park.
In this brand new Monthly Favorites series, I will be unveiling my current obsessions across a spectrum of categories: delectable food products, indispensable kitchen items, and occasionally, even charming home decor finds and innovative beauty essentials. If you’ve recently unearthed a product that you simply adore and can’t stop raving about, please, do share your insights in the comment section below! I am genuinely excited to hear about your latest loves!
1. Just Mayo – The Revolutionary Egg-Free Mayonnaise
I’ve enthusiastically placed Just Mayo at the very top of my April favorites list (and yes, please overlook the nearly empty bottle – it’s a testament to how much we love it!). My OBSESSION with this product is absolute and unequivocal. It’s truly mind-blowing how incredibly good and utterly delicious this mayonnaise is. We are talking about mayo here, folks – a condiment often taken for granted, but this one elevates the experience entirely! To be completely honest, I didn’t initially expect to be so captivated when I received the package from Just Mayo as a PR sample, with no strings attached. I was fortunate enough to try four distinct varieties: the classic Hampton Creek (akin to an original flavor), Garlic, Chipotle, and Sriracha. My first dive was straight into the garlic version, as my love for all things garlic knows no bounds, and OMG – it was simply divine! So remarkably creamy, wonderfully smooth, and perfectly garlicky, it instantly became a staple. My Hubby, quick to claim his favorite, immediately called dibs on the Chipotle one and has been raving about it ever since.
But what truly sets Just Mayo apart isn’t just its incredible taste and texture. Are you ready for this game-changer? It’s completely EGG-FREE! Yes, you heard correctly – no eggs are used in the making of this fantastic condiment. This makes Just Mayo a cholesterol-free, non-GMO, soy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and lactose-free option, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and needs without compromising on flavor. It’s a revelation for anyone looking for a healthier, plant-based alternative that genuinely tastes superior.
My only minor quibble with this outstanding product is its packaging. Especially for the thicker varieties like Hampton Creek and Garlic, extracting the last bits from the squeeze bottle can be a bit of a challenge. I often find myself unscrewing the top and resorting to a knife to get every last drop. However, this is a small inconvenience for such a stellar product, and I’ve already decided to purchase it in the jar format next time for easier access.
Just Mayo products are conveniently available at major retailers such as Target, Walmart, and Hy-Vee. The 12oz squeeze bottle typically retails for around $3.13, offering incredible value for its quality. You can also easily purchase the full range of Just Mayo products online through Amazon.
2. Cake Boss Mixing Bowls Set – Adding Fun to Your Baking Adventures
Oh, how I ADORE these Cake Boss mixing bowls! They have quickly become indispensable in my kitchen, bringing a splash of joy and efficiency to all my baking endeavors. Whether it’s whipping up a fluffy pancake batter for our leisurely Sunday morning breakfasts, preparing a batch of delicious cookie dough, or mixing the batter for these incredibly moist eggless mini cupcakes, these bowls are always my go-to. Baking, in itself, is a wonderfully fun and creative activity, but using tools that are as vibrant and aesthetically pleasing as these makes the entire experience even more enjoyable and inspiring!
The set is thoughtfully designed, coming with three perfectly sized bowls: 1.8 quart, 2 quart, and 3 quart. This range ensures I always have the ideal bowl for any task, from small prep work to larger baking projects. What truly sets these bowls apart for me, however, is their ingenious functionality. Each bowl features a rubberized ring securely fixed at its base. This seemingly small detail makes an enormous difference in the kitchen, as it prevents the bowl from sliding uncontrollably across my countertop or spinning around while I vigorously whisk ingredients. This stability allows for much more focused and mess-free mixing, which is a huge bonus for any baker.
I personally own the charming Icing Pattern set, which features a delightful design that adds a touch of whimsy to my kitchen. These beautiful and practical sets are available directly on the Cake Boss website for $29.99, an excellent investment for their quality and durability. For added convenience, you can also easily purchase them through Amazon, often with various design options to choose from. They make an ideal gift for any baking enthusiast or a wonderful treat for yourself to brighten up your kitchen.
P.S.: Don’t forget, there’s still a fantastic opportunity to win some other cool Cake Boss products in our ongoing giveaway! Be sure to check it out before it’s too late!
3. Mild Pepper Rings – A Surprising Pizza Topping Sensation
I know, I know! You might be thinking, “Pepper rings? That’s hardly a new product!” And you’d be absolutely right. However, for me, they are a complete revelation in terms of their application and versatility. My recent discovery of using these mild pepper rings has totally transformed our homemade pizza nights, and I simply had to share this culinary game-changer with you all! Lately, I’ve started finely chopping these vibrant rings and scattering them generously as a topping on our freshly baked pizzas, and the result is nothing short of extraordinary. My Hubby and I are utterly obsessed with the incredible zing and subtle peppery flavor they impart to every bite. It’s an unexpected burst of flavor that truly elevates the entire pizza experience, making it crazy good!
In our humble opinion, these mild pepper rings offer a superior flavor profile and texture compared to using fresh chopped bell peppers on pizza. They add a tangy, slightly briny kick that perfectly complements the rich cheese and savory sauce, without overpowering the other ingredients. This simple addition has quickly become a mandatory ingredient for all our future homemade pizzas. It just goes to show that sometimes, the most unassuming ingredients can hold the biggest surprises. It turns out that these versatile pepper rings aren’t just for enhancing sandwiches anymore!
I consistently pick up the Tuscan Garden brand of mild pepper rings from ALDI, where they are incredibly affordable at just $1.49 a jar. At such a budget-friendly price point, they offer exceptional value and a delicious way to upgrade your meals. If you’re a fan of a little extra zest and a unique peppery note, I highly recommend giving this pizza topping hack a try. You might just find yourself as obsessed as we are!
4. Farm Rich Italian Style Meatballs – The Ultimate Family Dinner Solution
If you’re on the hunt for the absolute best store-bought frozen meatballs, look no further than Farm Rich Italian Style Meatballs. These are, without a doubt, the finest I have ever encountered on the market. From the moment you taste them, you’ll appreciate their genuinely great flavor, which truly tastes like homemade. They are perfectly seasoned with a fabulous combination of spices that gives them an authentic Italian character, making them a standout product in the frozen aisle. Beyond their delicious taste, they are also an ideal size, making them particularly kid-friendly. This means you can effortlessly prepare a meal that the entire family will wholeheartedly enjoy, a major win for any busy parent who understands just how particular children can be about their food.
The convenience of having high-quality frozen meatballs on hand is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. I’ve utilized these fantastic meatballs to create some truly amazing and comforting dishes. They were the star ingredient in this crazy good Meatball Sub Cheesy Bread, a recipe that quickly became a family favorite. I also incorporated them into my incredibly popular One Pot Cheesy Tortellini and Meatballs, a dish that combines ease of preparation with maximum flavor. The real, homemade taste of these meatballs truly shines through in every recipe, making them a versatile and reliable choice for countless meals.
Another significant advantage that sets Farm Rich Italian Style Meatballs apart is their gluten-free formulation, which is excellent news for families managing dietary restrictions without wanting to sacrifice flavor or convenience. A single 28 oz. bag typically provides enough meatballs for two generous dinners for our family of five, making them a cost-effective and efficient solution for meal planning. Given their widespread popularity and superior quality, you can find Farm Rich Italian Style Meatballs readily available at many major retailers, ensuring they are always accessible whenever that meatball craving strikes.
5. Pioneer Woman’s Charming Melamine Bowl – A Blend of Style and Functionality
I know for a fact that I am not alone in my enthusiastic dash to Walmart the moment I heard about The Pioneer Woman’s stunning collection of dishes! The allure of Ree Drummond’s signature rustic-chic aesthetic combined with practical design is simply irresistible. When I finally made it to my local store, the selection was already quite sparse, but by some stroke of luck, I managed to snag this gorgeous bowl – and if memory serves me right, it was the very last one! Talk about a score! I was immediately captivated by its beautiful design and perfect size, which makes it ideal for serving a comforting, steamy bowl of 20-minute chicken noodle soup, among other things.
Currently, this delightful bowl frequently serves as a charming photo prop for my blog, adding a touch of warmth and visual appeal to my culinary creations. However, my ultimate goal is to collect an entire set for our family to enjoy during everyday meals and special occasions. The durability and unique patterns of The Pioneer Woman collection make them perfect for both casual use and more decorative purposes. When it’s not gracing my photography setup, I proudly display it on my kitchen counter as a vibrant fruit bowl. Its aesthetic appeal is such that I want to admire it constantly, so I love to fill it with brightly colored lemons and limes, or a medley of fresh strawberries, transforming it into a functional piece of art that brightens up my kitchen space.
This particular Pioneer Woman melamine bowl, renowned for its sturdiness and charming design, is exclusively available at Walmart. I recall paying an incredibly reasonable price of just $3.99 for it, making it an affordable luxury that brings both beauty and utility to any home. Its versatility and enduring appeal make it a highly recommended item for anyone looking to add a touch of Ree Drummond’s signature style to their kitchenware collection.
6. Kitchen Fair Fry Pan – My Indispensable Stove Top Companion
When I declared my obsession with this Kitchen Fair fry pan, I genuinely meant every single word. This pan has, quite literally, not left my stovetop since the day it arrived in my kitchen. It has seamlessly integrated itself into my daily cooking routine, becoming an indispensable tool that I reach for constantly. I’ve already shared the comprehensive reasons for my profound affection for this pan in a previous blog post HERE (feel free to check it out for more details and to grab the delicious creamy mushroom chicken pasta recipe I created in it!), but I feel compelled to reiterate its virtues. Its outstanding performance and thoughtful design make it truly exceptional.
One of the foremost reasons I adore this pan is its commitment to health and safety: it is proudly PFOA-free. This assurance allows me to cook with peace of mind, knowing that harmful chemicals are not leaching into our food. Beyond its safety features, the pan is impressively lightweight, making it incredibly easy to maneuver and handle, even when full of ingredients. This is a significant advantage, especially during those long cooking sessions or when transferring food. Furthermore, its sleek and modern design is a definite plus. It not only performs beautifully but also looks elegant on my stovetop, adding a touch of sophisticated professionalism to my kitchen.
The non-stick surface is consistently reliable, ensuring that food releases effortlessly and cleanup is an absolute breeze. Whether I’m searing, sautéing, or simmering, this pan delivers consistent, excellent results every time. It heats evenly and maintains temperature well, contributing to perfectly cooked dishes. While the Kitchen Fair fry pan represents a premium investment at $150, its exceptional quality, durability, and superior performance make it entirely worth the price for any home cook serious about their culinary tools. This product is exclusively available through authorized Kitchen Fair distributors, ensuring you receive genuine quality and support for your purchase.
7. Pink Blush Carnations – A Touch of Springtime Elegance
Ah, Spring! It’s that glorious time of year when nature awakens, and fresh, vibrant flowers seem to magically appear everywhere, bringing with them a renewed sense of joy and beauty. While my gardening skills might not be the most developed, and I’ve yet to cultivate a flourishing flowerbed in my own garden, my love for having a beautiful bouquet gracing my dining room table – or truthfully, any table in our home – is profound. There’s something undeniably uplifting about fresh flowers; they instantly elevate the mood, inject a welcome burst of color into our living spaces, and often, fill the air with their delicate, natural fragrances.
Among the myriad of beautiful blooms, pink blush flowers hold a very special place in my heart, coming in a close second only to the timeless elegance of red roses. Their soft, delicate hues and ruffled petals exude a gentle charm that I find simply enchanting. These particular pink blush carnations, with their exquisite beauty and sweet fragrance, were an incredibly thoughtful gift from my wonderful Hubby. Receiving them brought such a wave of happiness and a touch of romantic swoon to my day! They serve as a constant reminder of his affection and brightened up our home immensely.
Carnations, often underestimated, are actually fantastic choices for cut flowers. They are surprisingly long-lasting, hardy, and come in a stunning array of colors, making them versatile for any occasion or decor style. Their layered petals create a full, luxurious look, adding elegance without the hefty price tag of some other blooms. Having them displayed prominently in a vase not only beautifies the space but also adds a lively, natural element that simply makes me happy every time I walk by. They are a simple yet powerful way to bring the freshness and cheer of springtime indoors, transforming an ordinary room into a vibrant, inviting sanctuary.
8. Milani Nail Polish “Cupcake Icing” – My Long-Lasting Spring Mani Essential
Yes, finally! A fabulous makeup item has made its way into my monthly favorites this April! As the seasons gracefully transition, so too does my preferred nail polish color palette. With the arrival of Spring, I’ve been absolutely smitten with this particular Milani nail lacquer, aptly named “Cupcake Icing.” It’s more than just a gorgeous, sweetly named shade; the formula itself has completely won me over and proven its exceptional quality. The color is a perfect soft, milky pink that feels fresh, elegant, and perfectly suited for the brightening days of spring.
What truly impresses me about this Milani nail polish is its incredible longevity and chip resistance. And believe me, when I praise a nail polish for its staying power, you can trust it! As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the kitchen – cooking up a storm means constantly washing dishes and immersing my hands in water – my nail polish endures a rigorous test. Many polishes chip within a day or two under these conditions, but this one holds up beautifully. It simply doesn’t chip on me, maintaining its flawless finish for much longer than I’d expect, which is an absolute game-changer for my busy lifestyle.
Beyond its durability, the application is a dream. I only need a single coat to achieve fantastic coverage and a stunning, vibrant color that truly pops. The brush is designed for smooth, even application, making it quick and easy to achieve a salon-quality manicure at home. The “Cupcake Icing” shade offers a sophisticated yet playful touch that brightens my mood every time I look at my hands. Now, with “Cupcake Icing” having captured my heart for Spring, my next mission is to find an equally stunning coral shade to embrace the vibrant energy of summer!
Milani nail polishes, including this fantastic “Cupcake Icing” shade, are widely available at many retailers. I picked up mine at Kmart, but you can also conveniently purchase them online through Amazon, often with a wider selection of their extensive color range.
~~~~~
And that concludes this exciting roundup of my April favorites! I genuinely hope you’ve discovered some new and intriguing products to explore, or perhaps even recognized a few items that you already cherish and obsess over yourselves. Sharing these discoveries with you brings me immense joy, and I’m always eager to connect through our shared passions. Please, don’t keep your own treasures a secret – let me know what products or items you’re absolutely obsessing with this month in the comments below! I can’t wait to read your recommendations and perhaps add a few more things to my own must-try list!
Wishing you all a truly beautiful and inspired day!
~~~~~
Disclosure: This post contains carefully selected affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase an item on Amazon through one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Rest assured, there is absolutely no additional cost incurred by you. Your support helps maintain this blog and allows me to continue sharing content I love. Thank you for your continued readership and support!