Just~One~Donna

A Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe for the Holidays There’s something about this time of year that pulls us back into the kitchen. Whether it’s the scent of vanilla drifting through a warm house or the comfort of familiar traditions, holiday baking has a way of grounding us.  I always make room for at least one batch of chocolate chip cookies in December, and today I’m sharing the recipe I’ve been making for years, which is thin, crisp, and buttery. This recipe started its life in the Cook’s Illustrated test kitchen, famous for perfecting cooking techniques down to the smallest detail. Their original version includes browned butter and a unique beat-and-rest mixing method.  Over the years, I’ve evolved the recipe to my liking.  If you’re a chocolate chip cookie lover, this one’s for you. When that craving hits for a cookie that’s  thin, crispy at the edges, and chewy in the center , this recipe never disappoints.

How to Choose the Best Kitchen Appliances for Your Home Shopping for new kitchen appliances can feel overwhelming, but a little planning makes the process smoother, less stressful, and far more successful.  Whether you're replacing an aging refrigerator or updating your entire appliance suite, knowing your needs, understanding your budget, and comparing models efficiently will help you make smart, confident choices. I just went through the process of replacing my refrigerator, range, microwave, and dishwasher.   Today, I'm sharing my tips for simplifying the process, reducing overwhelm, and making it more enjoyable.  I also have a handy-dandy checklist to help you out.

Similar BUT Different: Comparing Just One Donna's Apple Crisp to Jamie Oliver's Apple Crumble There’s nothing like the smell of apples baking in the oven to make it feel like fall. If you’re short on time but craving that cozy, nostalgic flavor, Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble delivers all the comfort of baked apples in less than an hour.  But how does it compare to my family’s tried-and-true apple crisp?  Let’s find out. When the weather turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, my mind immediately drifts to apple season. Few desserts capture the essence of autumn like warm baked apples topped with a buttery, golden crust. In my house, that usually means making my family’s classic apple crisp, a recipe that’s been baked and loved for years. But what about those nights when you’re short on time yet still craving that cozy fall flavor? Recently, I tried Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble, a simple, pared-down recipe that promises all the comfort of baked apples in less time. Does it d...

My Favorite Roast Chicken Recipe for Cozy Fall Evenings When the air turns crisp and the evenings arrive a little earlier, I find myself turning back to comforting, oven-baked meals. One of my all-time favorites is roast chicken. It’s simple to prepare, yet it fills the house with the most inviting aroma and delivers a meal that feels both homey and special. This is my go-to roast chicken recipe — one you'll return to again and again when you want a meal that’s flavorful, satisfying, and just a little indulgent. With just a few pantry staples, plus optional fresh herbs, you’ll have a chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and completely irresistible.