9 Kitchen Appliance Gifts Perfect For Cooks

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November 17, 2023

A black air fryer on a white counter with churros inside and cocktails beside the air fryer. — Photo courtesy of Crate and Barrel

Picking gifts for a cook of any sort can be intimidating. You want to make sure you buy them something they’ll use, whether they’re a home cook or a chef in a restaurant. It gets even more complicated when you’re thrown Black Friday deals left and right. Make your holiday season a little easier this year with a breakdown of what will leave loved ones and stomachs happy. Here are 9 kitchen appliance gifts perfect for the cook in your life.

Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker

A silver bread maker with a loaf of bread inside on a table with more bread. — Photo courtesy of Williams Sonoma

Freshly baked bread has that perfectly warm, pillowy center and melts butter with ease. But, making it from scratch can be a complicated process. Instead, a bread maker makes the job accessible to any level of cook. Just find a recipe for the kind you wish to make, add the ingredients, and let the appliance do the hard work for you.

Cuisinart Elemental 8-Cup Food Processor

A silver food processor sits on a white marble table surrounded by fresh ingredients and a pizza cutter. — Photo courtesy of Williams Sonoma

Make chopping, slicing, and pureeing a breeze in half the time it takes to do so by hand. A food processor is useful for almost any recipe you can think of whether it be dinner or dessert. Use it to shred vegetables to prepare a salad and then mix up cookie dough for a tasty treat.

Aroma 20-Cup Stainless Steel Rice Cooker

A silver and black digital rice cooker sits on a marble counter next to cutting boards, salt and pepper shakers, and a bowl of rice. — Photo courtesy of Home Depot

Imagine that you made a perfect stir fry but the rice is undercooked and crunchy or overcooked and mushy. You’ll never have to worry about ruined rice ever again with a rice cooker that gets it right every time. Plus, steam veggies in a basket for another great use all in one device.

KitchenAid Variable Speed Corded Hand Blender

A black immersion blender sits on a marle countertop next to a mixed glass of chiles and a bowl of unblended chiles. — Photo courtesy of KitchenAid

These simple immersion blenders are valuable tools that take the clunkiness of a regular blender and transform it to fit in your hand. Blend soups to a creamy consistency without hassle. Form a homemade whipped cream for on top of brownies. Or emulsify the perfect tomato sauce for pasta.

Casabrews CM5418-20Cups Silver Stainless Steel Espresso Machine

A silver espresso machine with a shot of espresso underneath and a milk carrier beside it. — Photo courtesy of Home Depot

Create barista quality coffee right in your own kitchen. Getting Starbucks every week can get expensive but it isn’t that hard to replicate their coffees right in your own home. With an espresso maker you can carefully curate exactly what you want the drink to taste like. If you decide to go with this gift, make sure you check out our Starbucks syrup dupes for a starter recipe.

Vitamix 5200 Standard Blender

A Vitamix blender on a wooden counter with tomatoes, cumbers, and a bowl of soup also on the counter. — Photo courtesy of Vitamix

For an appliance that’s going to last, go for the Vitamix that comes with a 10 year warranty. The stainless steel blades are part of what makes this blender outlive any other brand. Plus it has complete speed control with specific settings depending on what you choose to make.

Philips Essential Digital Compact Basket AirFryer

We’re sure you’ve heard all about these healthy alternatives to oil frying but it truly is a helpful gift for anyone no matter their age or skill level. The possibilities of what dishes can be made with an air fryer are endless. From juicy steak bites to roasted vegetables to donuts, learn to make it all in a timely and simple fashion.

All-Clad Gourmet Plus Slow Cooker, 7-Qt. with All-In One Browning

A silver slow cooker on a white table with a bowl of pot roast beside it and plates in the background. — Photo courtesy of Williams Sonoma

The luxury of a delicious meal at low effort is something everyone wishes for. A slow cooker lets you carry on with your daily tasks while cooking a tender pot roast with potatoes and carrots for a family dinner. It’s also great for parties. Just make your favorite dip and take the slow cooker to the party to make sure each person gets a hot bite.

Smeg 2-Slice Toaster

A black Smeg toaster with toast peaking out from inside on a white counter. — Photo by Crate and Barrel

The retro look of the Smeg Toaster is an aesthetic addition to any kitchen. The stylish gadget comes in plenty of different colors and patterns to match various decor themes. Not to mention its ability to toast the perfect golden-brown every time.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Pizzelle Recipe

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Kylie Thomas

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November 17, 2023

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Various Pizzelles laid out on a table with flower shapes in each.

Who doesn’t love the taste of a pizzelle at a get-together? It’s even better when it’s a family recipe that’s been passed from generation to generation. To Anthony Musmanno, it feels like just yesterday that he was in his grandparents’ home at Christmas and Easter making their pizzelle recipe. One of his treasured family heirlooms is the recipe card he typed himself as a youth.

“Grandmother’s heavy hand on the anise would have their home smelling like a warm licorice factory. One of her secrets was adding pure anise oil along with a heaping handful of anise seeds. Usually there are great bakers and great cooks, and rarely do the two skill sets overlap, but my grandmother was a fierce double threat. She could cook like the dickens and bake with the best of them. Her pizzelle recipe was a favorite and only made twice a year. In her later years, she became ill and could not bake or cook any longer. My grandfather, who had never baked before, took over the pizzelle duties. When he passed, the recipe and her favorite pizzelle iron came to me. I am now the current family pizzelle steward. I, too, make them twice a year…Christmas and Easter. My son Sam (13 years old) is my apprentice. He’ll take over the duties one day.”

Pizzelle Recipe

This recipe card was typed up by its photographer, Anthony the III, also age 13, at the time.

INGREDIENTS

1 dozen eggs
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 handful anise seeds
1/2 cup oil
1 1/4 lb sugar (or 2 1/2 cups)
3 lemon rinds
1/2 tsp lemon juice
2 orange rinds
a little orange juice
1 cup Crisco
2 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
about 6 cups of flour for electric iron

DIRECTIONS

Beat the eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Stir the anise seeds, oil, sugar, lemon, orange, crisco, baking powder, and salt together in another bowl. Add to egg mix and fold mixture until smooth.
Add flour slowly and mix until incorporated.
Heat the pizzelle iron. Grease your iron by dipping a towel in canola oil and wiping it all over the iron’s interior plates. Cooking spray is not recommended as it can leave a sticky residue in the iron. As the iron heats, the batter will stiffen.
Dip and cook the pizzelle until just turning brown. Expect them to take anywhere from 1 to 2½ minutes to brown.
Remove the pizzelle from the iron and cool on a rack.

Recipe Card by Anthony Musmanno / Photography by Dave Bryce / Styling by Keith Recker

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Pittsburgh Happenings: November 21-27

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 17, 2023

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A woman with dark hair holds up the fringed arm of a red jacket. — Photo courtesy of FashionAFRICANA

We are almost to Thanksgiving and fabulous events embracing the creeping start of winter are in full gear. Get holly and jolly by exploring light displays in the city, celebrating Thanksgiving with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, or taking in a play on a classic book with a seasonal twist. No matter the choice, share it with your loved ones as a way to get into that special holiday feeling.

A Christmas tree lit up in the middle of an ice rink surrounded by city buildings and more lights. — Photo courtesy of The UPMC Rink at PPG Place

Holiday Lights Walking Tour

Downtown Pittsburgh, November 22 – January 1

Stroll through the city decorated with holiday cheer and bright light displays. Visit the world’s largest pickle ornament, gingerbread house displays, and of course the giant PPG Place Christmas tree surrounded by the UPMC Ice Rink. The walking tour ends at the Peoples Gas Holiday Market so you can get some shopping done while having a blast.

Thanksgiving with Randall Goosby

Heinz Hall, November 24 – 26

Cherish the gratitude of Thanksgiving with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and violinist Randall Goosby, a protégé of Itzhak Perlman. Delight in a joyful concert featuring Gloria Isabel Ramos’ Joy, Korngold’s Violin Concerto, and Strauss’ Family Waltzes & Polkas. Plus there will be many chances to come together as a community with different celebratory activities.

A colorful stained glass Christmas tree stands in the center of holiday lights. — Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens

Dazzling Nights

Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens, November 24 – January 1

Immerse yourself in a mile-long awe-inspiring holiday experience. The Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens decorates its outside space with millions of tiny twinkling lights each winter season. There’s beauty at every turn whether you’re dancing through a tunnel of stars or posing with a stained glass tree.

AFRICANISM, A FashionAFRICANA Gala

Pittsburgh Public Theater, November 25

Explore amazing creations by leading Black and African designers and artists all in style and elegance. Taste some premier African cuisine, dance away to moving rhythms, and view the vibrant atmosphere. The gala is by FashionAFRICANA and this year’s theme, “AFRICANISM,” celebrates the global influence of African culture on contemporary movements.

A ground of victorian characters gather around a piano to sing a song. — Photo courtesy of Virginia Repertory Theatre and Aaron Sutten

Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley

City Theater Mainstage, November 25 – December 17

This one’s for all the book lovers out there. Dive into the world of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in this play by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon, directed by Kyle Haden. Follow the Bennets, Darcys, and Bingleys, for a Christmas at Pemberly when an unexpected guest makes an appearance.

See what else we’re excited about this November.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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The Best Wendy’s Copycat Chili Recipe

By

Star Laliberte

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November 15, 2023

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An overhead view of The best Wendy's Copycat chili in a bowl with grated cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream in a white bowl, with small bowls of sour cream, grated cheddar, and pepper, a couple saltine crackers, parsley sprigs and a gold spoon on a wooden surface.

With Wendy’s drive-thru available just about everywhere, you may be thinking, “Why do I need The Best Wendy’s Copycat Chili Recipe?” That’s a fair question, especially since we hear you can even purchase branded cans at certain local supermarkets. But sometimes it just feels good to have a pot of chili on the stove, filling your home with a spicy warm fragrance on a cold fall or winter day. And honestly, Wendy’s version has a pretty great flavor. So if you don’t have your own traditional recipe for the beloved, saucy bowl of beans and meat in a thick tomato broth, this just might become a go-to for future bubbling pots of chili in your kitchen.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian Friendly?

Thankfully, every ingredient in this recipe is vegetarian friendly except for the ground beef. You can simple remove this element to make a chili that’s available for everyone to try. But, you can also substitute the ground beef for another protein of your choice. Try this recipe with another type of bean, chickpeas, or even grilled tofu.

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The Best Wendy’s Copycat Chili Recipe

Author: Star Laliberte

Print Recipe

Description

No need to spend another dollar at Wendy’s again!

Ingredients

Scale

2 lb ground beef
1 qt tomato juice
2 14.5 oz cans of stewed tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain – we used Petite Cut® Diced Tomatoes with Hatch Green Chilies)
15 oz can red kidney beans (do not drain)
15 oz can pinto beans (do not drain)
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 small green pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
10 tbsp chili powder (you can use up to 1/4 cup if you prefer a stronger flavor)
1 tsp cumin
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried oregano
2/3 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Optional ingredients:

Grated sharp cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Sliced scallions
Crackers

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef.
Drain browned beef and transfer to a 6 quart pot.
Add all of the remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, cover, lower heat and let simmer on low for 1-1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Serve with your favorite crackers, or a slice of delicious grilled bread.

If you’re looking for an infinitely adaptable chili recipe, try Mom’s Basic Chili.

Recipe and Styling and Story by Star Laliberte
Photography by Keith Recker

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DIY Infused Liquors

By

Star Laliberte

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November 14, 2023

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Five clear bottles of different sizes with infused liquors, sitting on the right of a shelf with a copper mug to the left.

There’s one in every crowd. You know who we’re talking about. The person who seems to have everything. The one that’s totally impossible to shop for. They could be a member of the family, someone in your circle of friends, a co-worker. But there they are. ‘Tis the season for staying in everyone’s good graces, so why not gift something that’ll keep ‘em warm and fuzzy no matter how long the winter season lingers? Enter DIY Infused Liquors.

Creating your own curated collection of infused liquors is easy. While the result is so visually compelling that it can’t help but bump you up in the pecking order of the last will and testament, most steeping ingredients require a minimum of only 36 hours to do their thing, though flavors improve and intensify over time.

The biggest part of the job is curating your flavors. Take a cue from the chilly weather to craft warming combinations of vodka infused with things savory and sweet: pears and cinnamon, fig and fennel, orange-peppermint, vanilla-ginger, or thyme-jalapeño. You might also try espresso beans and whiskey, or dark rum and a long curl of grapefruit zest.

Mason jars reign supreme as the ultimate vessel to contain your concoction, but don’t shy away from vintage seltzer bottles or a swing top, either. Just make sure it’s clear glass that will show off the goods inside.

Finally, keep your gift tags simple so as not to compete with what’s inside, hand-stamping them or enlisting the aid of someone with calligraphy-inspired penmanship if your own tends to be more scrawl than script.

Story by Kate Benz / Concept and styling by Quelcy Kogel / Photography by Erin Kelly
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Melted Snowmen Cake Pops

By

Star Laliberte

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November 14, 2023

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Melted Snowmen Cake Pops served on a white ceramic plate with cookies and crumbs in the surroundings

Get ready for a winter baking adventure with our Melted Snowmen Cake Pops! Bring the kids into the kitchen to build these kid-friendly treats made from crushed sugar cookies and white chocolate. Follow a few simple steps to create your own edible snowmen with adorable faces and chocolate arms.

Tips for Making Cake Pops

Making cake pops is an easy, fun project you can do with the whole family, or if you’re a less seasoned baker, it’s a good starting point to ease into baking. There’s not a lot that can go wrong with this recipe, since the imperfection is part of the fun of it, but you do want to take into account how many people you’re baking for. If you’re making a lot of these cake pops, break the process into smaller batches. This way, the cake balls don’t warm up too much, and you can keep everything manageable as you bake. When you’re putting together the snowmen shape, don’t hesitate to get creative, but make sure the white chocolate is set, so the shape doesn’t fall apart. When you’re ready to, gently insert the skewers into the center of each cake ball, but don’t push it all the way through. If it’s too close to the bottom, it might weaken the ball and cause it to break.

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