Discover the most popular recipes of 2015! From irresistible dinners to delightful desserts and essential side dishes, this collection features the reader favorites that captivated taste buds all year long.
As we bid farewell to 2015 and eagerly embrace the promise of a new year, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the culinary journey we’ve shared. The passage of time truly feels unbelievable, yet here we are, stepping into 2016! I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who has spent time reading, cooking, and engaging with this little corner of the internet. Your support means the world to me, and it’s what makes sharing these recipes so incredibly rewarding. It’s always a highlight of the year to compile our annual “Reader’s Top 10 Favorite Recipes” list, revealing which dishes captured your hearts and stomachs the most. While some beloved classics consistently earn their spot, making their return year after year, there’s always an element of delightful surprise as new contenders emerge and climb the ranks. For instance, the Classic Italian Pasta Salad has become an instant hit this year, proving that new recipes can quickly become cherished staples. This unpredictability is precisely what makes creating and sharing these collections so much fun, and it truly speaks to the diverse tastes within our community. It’s also a humorous reminder of my blogging journey to see some of my earlier posts, complete with their less-than-perfect photography, still resonating so strongly with you all. A little embarrassment aside, it shows that flavor and a great recipe always shine through!
This carefully curated collection brings you the most beloved recipes that graced our tables and delighted our readers throughout 2015. From comforting slow cooker meals perfect for busy weeknights to decadent desserts ideal for celebrations, and versatile side dishes that complement any meal, there’s something here for every occasion and every craving. We’ll be counting down from the undisputed #1 reigning champion to the equally popular #10, showcasing the diverse range of flavors and cooking styles that became your go-to choices last year. Whether you’re looking for fresh inspiration for your meal planning or eager to revisit some tried-and-true favorites, this roundup is packed with proven recipes that deliver on taste and satisfaction. I hope you discover new culinary treasures within this list, just as countless others have throughout the past year. Happy 2016, and happy cooking!
Starting with the #1 reigning champion, a dish that has proudly held its top spot for three years in a row – the truly beloved Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes – and making our way down to #10, here they are, presented in order from the most popular to the tenth most cherished recipe. Dive in and find your next favorite, confident that these dishes have already won over a multitude of readers!
1. Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes
It’s no surprise that these incredible Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes have claimed the top spot for three consecutive years! This recipe combines moist, flavorful peanut butter cupcakes with an unbelievably decadent cookie dough frosting. Each bite is a delightful explosion of textures and flavors, thanks to the generous inclusion of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and vibrant M&M candies. They are the epitome of comfort and indulgence, making them perfect for birthdays, parties, or simply treating yourself to something truly special. This dessert isn’t just a cupcake; it’s an experience that consistently keeps readers coming back for more, cementing its legacy as a blog favorite.
2. Pecan Pie Bark (A truly exceptional recipe courtesy of my friend Hayley that has also secured the #2 spot for 3 years running!)
Coming in strong at second place, the irresistible Pecan Pie Bark proves that sometimes, less is more – especially when it comes to ditching the crust for pure, unadulterated flavor! This brilliant creation, courtesy of my talented friend Hayley, has been a consistent crowd-pleaser for three years, becoming a holiday season staple for many. It delivers all the rich, nutty, and sweet essence of traditional pecan pie in an easy-to-make, shareable bark format. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, it’s a delightful alternative that simplifies dessert preparation without compromising on taste. Its continued popularity highlights its undeniable appeal and versatility as a sweet treat.
3. Cinnamon Apple Pie Bread
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Cinnamon Apple Pie Bread baking in the kitchen, and our readers wholeheartedly agree! This delightful loaf perfectly encapsulates the warm, spiced flavors of a classic apple pie in a convenient, sliceable form. Bursting with tender apple pieces and fragrant cinnamon, it’s an ideal treat for any time of day – whether it’s a sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a simple dessert with a cup of coffee. Its wholesome appeal and incredible flavor have made it a consistent favorite, especially during the cozier months, proving that traditional comforts never go out of style.
4. Sausage Cheese Balls
When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers, our Sausage Cheese Balls are an undeniable champion! These savory, bite-sized delights are incredibly easy to prepare and always disappear quickly at any gathering. Made with a simple combination of sausage, cheese, and baking mix, they bake up golden brown and irresistibly tender. They are an absolute must-have for holiday parties, game day celebrations, or even a festive New Year’s Eve spread. Their timeless appeal and straightforward preparation make them a go-to recipe for hosts looking to impress without stress, cementing their position as a top reader favorite.
5. Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate
Embrace warmth and indulgence with our Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate, a recipe that has proven to be an absolute lifesaver for entertaining and cozy nights alike. This slow cooker marvel allows you to prepare a large batch of rich, velvety hot chocolate with minimal effort, making it ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. Its smooth, decadent flavor is perfect for warding off the chill on cold winter days. Simply set it and forget it, then serve up mugs of pure bliss. It’s a testament to simple pleasures, earning its place as a top reader favorite for its ease and comforting deliciousness.
6. Crock Pot Peach Cobbler
Who knew that one of the most comforting desserts could be so effortlessly prepared? Our Crock Pot Peach Cobbler has charmed its way onto the top 10 list, offering a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to enjoy this classic treat. Utilizing the slow cooker, this recipe yields tender, juicy peaches topped with a sweet, cake-like crust, all with minimal hands-on time. It’s fantastic served warm, especially alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Its convenience and delicious results clearly resonated with readers seeking easy, comforting sweets.
7. Creamy Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese
For the ultimate in comfort food that practically cooks itself, look no further than our Creamy Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese. This beloved recipe has become a staple for countless readers, offering a remarkably rich and gooey mac and cheese with hardly any fuss. It’s an exceptional side dish for family meals, a hit at any potluck, or even a comforting main course. The slow cooker method ensures perfectly cooked pasta bathed in a luscious cheese sauce, making it a particularly great choice for summer entertaining when you want to keep your kitchen cool. Its convenience and undeniably delicious results make it a consistent favorite.
8. Classic Italian Pasta Salad
Making its grand debut as a new favorite on our annual list, the Classic Italian Pasta Salad quickly won over readers with its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors. This dependable recipe is packed with tender pasta, an assortment of crisp vegetables, savory pepperoni or salami, and a zesty Italian dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It’s the quintessential side dish for spring and summer gatherings, perfect for picnics, barbecues, and casual dinners. Easy to prepare in advance, it’s a refreshing and satisfying addition to any meal, proving that a well-executed classic can always find new fans.
9. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars
Indulge your sweet tooth without the fuss of baking with our incredibly popular Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars. This no-bake wonder is a dream come true for anyone who loves the taste of raw cookie dough but wants a safe, egg-free option. These bars are rich, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, delivering pure bliss in every bite. They’re perfect for quick desserts, unexpected cravings, or as a fuss-free treat to bring to a potluck. Their simplicity and irresistible flavor have cemented their place as a top reader favorite, proving that some of the best desserts don’t require an oven.
10. Crock Pot Coca-Cola Roast
Rounding out our top 10 list is the surprisingly flavorful and incredibly tender Crock Pot Coca-Cola Roast. This recipe has long been a secret weapon in many kitchens, using the unexpected ingredient of Coca-Cola to tenderize and infuse a rich, subtle sweetness into a hearty chuck roast. The slow cooker works its magic, transforming tough cuts of meat into melt-in-your-mouth perfection, ideal for serving over mashed potatoes or with your favorite vegetables. It’s a comforting, easy-to-prepare dinner that always impresses, making it a perennial favorite for good reason and a perfect way to conclude our most popular recipes of 2015.