Recipe Category: All Recipes

Classic Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
May 25, 2025

Classic Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

A nostalgic and fruity favorite, this classic dump cake combines sweet cherries and tangy pineapple with a buttery golden topping.

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by Joyista Life
Decadent Chocolate Cake
May 23, 2025

Decadent Chocolate Cake

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by Joyista Life
Soft Honey Wheat Bread
May 23, 2025

Soft Honey Wheat Bread

A light, fluffy loaf with a hint of sweetness from honey and a subtle nutty note from whole wheat flour — perfect for toast, sandwiches, or warm from the oven with butter.

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Soft Honey Wheat Bread

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🍞 A Slice of Simplicity: Soft Honey Wheat Bread

There’s something grounding about making bread from scratch. Maybe it’s the scent that fills your kitchen while it bakes, or the quiet satisfaction of slicing into a golden loaf you kneaded with your own hands. This Soft Honey Wheat Bread is one of those simple pleasures featuring lightly sweetened with honey and made tender with a blend of whole wheat and bread flour, it’s a recipe I find myself returning to often.

This version was born out of my search for a bread that tasted wholesome but still had that soft, sandwich-style texture. I experimented with a few combinations, and what I learned is that a little whole wheat flour goes a long way. Too much, and you end up with something dense and hearty (which can be wonderful in its own way), but for everyday toast or a turkey sandwich, this lighter touch is perfect. The 2/3 cup of whole wheat flour offers a hint of nuttiness, while bread flour provides the structure and chew we love in a classic loaf.

I also chose honey instead of sugar in this recipe. Beyond the flavor, honey adds moisture and gives the crust a beautiful golden finish. There’s a quiet comfort in using ingredients like this  pantry staples that have nourished generations before us.

🥖 Curious why we use different flours in baking?  like bread flour, all-purpose, or whole wheat? Learn about The Differences in Types of Flour and how they affect your final result.

When I bake this bread, I’m reminded of the kitchens I grew up in,  the ones that always had a loaf wrapped in a dish towel on the counter and where butter was left out so it was always ready to spread. This is the kind of bread that makes those small moments feel special again.

Whether you’re new to bread baking or looking to add a reliable go-to recipe to your collection, this one is forgiving, flavorful, and adaptable. You can top it with seeds, brush it with butter, or toast it until golden. It freezes beautifully and makes excellent grilled cheese (trust me, I’ve tested this extensively).

So if you’ve been craving the rhythm of a quiet morning in the kitchen and the reward of warm, homemade bread this is it.

  • Author: Kari Jean - Joyista Life
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Rise TIme: 60-75 minutes (1st) 30-40 minutes (2nd)
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Category: Breads
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)

2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

2 tbsp honey

2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil

2 1/3 cups bread flour

2/3 cup whole wheat flour

1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast:
    In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine warm water and honey. Stir in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.

  2. Mix the dough:
    Add melted butter/oil, salt, whole wheat flour, and 1½ cups of the bread flour. Stir or mix on low until combined. Add remaining bread flour gradually until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

  3. Knead:
    Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes (or by stand mixer for 5–6 minutes) until smooth and elastic.

  4. First rise:
    Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours or until doubled in size.

  5. Shape and second rise:
    Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place into a greased 9×5″ loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until the dough rises 1–1½ inches above the pan rim.

  6. Bake:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

  7. Cool:
    Let rest in pan for 5 minutes, then remove to a wire rack. For a softer, glossy crust, gently rub a pat of butter over the warm loaf as it cools.  Cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Tips:

  • Flour Flexibility: You can adjust the ratio of whole wheat to bread flour based on your preference. Using more whole wheat flour will make the bread heartier, while more bread flour keeps it soft and light.
  • Pan Tip: Be sure to lightly grease your loaf pan and, if possible, line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking — especially with honey in the dough.
  • Honey Swap: If you don’t have honey, you can substitute maple syrup or agave, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
  • Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully! Slice before freezing so you can grab just what you need.
  • Dough Texture: This dough is slightly sticky due to the honey. If kneading by hand, lightly oil your hands or dust with flour to make handling easier.
  • Flavor Enhancer: For a little extra depth, add 1–2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or a touch of molasses.
  • Tested & Tweaked: This recipe was refined after real kitchen testing. It’s a light, soft loaf made with just the right touch of whole wheat.

Topping Ideas to Add Before Baking Your Honey Wheat Bread:

Enhance the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of your loaf by sprinkling any of these toppings before baking:

  • Rolled oats
  • Chia seeds
  • Poppy seeds
  • Sesame seeds
  • Flax seeds
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Everything bagel seasoning (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, garlic flakes, salt)
  • Hemp seeds (nutty flavor and extra protein)
  • Toasted quinoa (adds a crunchy, nutty texture)
  • Cracked black pepper (for a subtle spicy kick)
  • Crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans (adds crunch and richness)
  • Dried herbs such as rosemary or thyme (for a savory, herbal aroma)
  • Caraway seeds (slightly licorice-flavored, great with wheat)
  • Ground flaxseed mixed with sesame seeds (nutty and nutritious)
  • Coarse sea salt flakes (for contrast and to enhance sweetness)
  • Nigella seeds (black onion seeds with a peppery, exotic flavor)

Feel free to mix and match to create your signature loaf!

 

Baking bread is more than a recipe, it’s a ritual of love and nourishment. Try this soft honey wheat loaf and fill your kitchen with the sweet scent of comfort. 🍞✨

Share your slice of joy! Tag me when you bake it, tell me how it turned out, or pass it along to someone who needs a little homemade goodness in their life. 💙 #JoyistaLife

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice

 

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (12 slices per loaf
  • Calories: 165
  • Fat: 2.5
  • Carbohydrates: 31

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by Joyista Life
Smoky Crunch Broccoli Salad
May 22, 2025

Smoky Crunch Broccoli Salad

A vibrant, crunchy broccoli salad tossed with smoky bacon, toasted nuts, and a tangy, creamy dressing—bursting with flavor and texture in every bite!

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by Joyista Life
Famous Potato Salad
May 16, 2025

Famous Potato Salad

This old-fashioned potato salad with a cooked dressing (no mayo!) is a beloved family recipe. Sweet, tangy, and perfect for picnics, it’s always the first dish gone.

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by Joyista Life
Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce
May 14, 2025

Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

A rich, smoky BBQ sauce infused with real Kentucky bourbon, brown sugar, and warm spices. Perfect for grilling, dipping, or elevating pulled pork and ribs.

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Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

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Straight from the Bluegrass: Homemade Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

There’s something unmistakably soulful about bourbon. Living in Kentucky, it’s more than just a drink—it’s a part of the culture. That slow burn, the smoky vanilla notes, the way it lingers… it’s only natural to let that flavor shine beyond the glass. That’s how this Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce came to life.

I first made it on a whim during a weekend cookout. We had a few friends over, a grill full of ribs, and a bottle of bourbon I was saving for “something special.” That something special turned out to be this sauce.

I started with sautéed onions and garlic, added a generous pour of bourbon, and let it bubble into the base of a rich tomato sauce with brown sugar, molasses, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. What emerged was a beautifully balanced sauce which is sweet, tangy, smoky, and smooth, with that signature bourbon warmth rounding it all out.

Now, it’s my go-to for ribs, burgers, and pulled pork sandwiches. It’s also one of those sauces that gets people asking for the recipe (and usually going back for seconds). If you’re a fan of big flavor with a Southern soul, you’ll want to keep this one in your fridge year-round.

  • Author: Kari Jean - Joyista Life
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 1/2 cup approx. 1x
  • Category: Sauces
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Units Scale
1 tbsp olive oil 1/2 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 3/4 cup ketchup 1/4 cup bourbon (good quality, but doesn’t need to be expensive) 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp molasses 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.

  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Add ketchup, bourbon, vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire, mustard, paprika, pepper, and cayenne.

  4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

  5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cool slightly before using or storing in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Serving Ideas:

  • Brush over grilled ribs or burgers

  • Drizzle on pulled pork or brisket sandwiches

  • Use as a dip for chicken tenders or smoked sausage

  • Swirl into baked beans or chili for smoky depth

 

Final Thought:

There’s just something about homemade sauce that brings a meal to life, especially when it’s kissed with a little Kentucky bourbon. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, brushing it over grilled chicken, or stirring it into baked beans, this BBQ sauce adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match.

📌 Now it’s your turn!
Try this Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce at your next cookout and taste the difference a little hometown pride can make. And don’t forget to pin this recipe, share it with your BBQ-loving friends, and let me know in the comments what you served it with! 💙

Alcohol: Most of the bourbon’s alcohol cooks off during simmering, leaving flavor behind.

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 55
  • Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 11

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by Joyista Life
Bold & Tangy Mustard BBQ Sauce
May 14, 2025

Bold & Tangy Mustard BBQ Sauce

Here’s a unique twist on a mustard-style BBQ sauce—bold, tangy, slightly sweet, and with a bit of complexity that sets it apart from traditional Carolina gold styles.

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by Joyista Life
Blackberry BBQ Sauce
May 14, 2025

Blackberry BBQ Sauce

This Blackberry BBQ Sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet, smoky, and spicy. Made with fresh blackberries from my homestead, it brings a rich, tangy flavor with just the right amount of heat, ideal for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or as a dipping sauce.

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by Joyista Life
Chicken Salad with Grapes
May 14, 2025

Chicken Salad with Grapes

This creamy chicken salad with grapes is a fresh take on a classic—blending tender chicken, juicy grapes, and crunchy celery in a light, tangy dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or served over greens!

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Chicken Salad with Grapes

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🍇 A Classic Twist: Chicken Salad with Grapes

There’s something timeless about chicken salad. It’s the kind of dish that reminds me of lunch on the patio with friends where conversation flowed as easily as the iced tea, and the chicken salad was always just the right blend of creamy and crisp.

This version is a nod to that tradition but with a fresh, modern touch: juicy grapes for sweetness, toasted pecans for crunch, and a dressing that can be as light or indulgent as you like.

It’s a recipe that travels well, whether to a picnic, a potluck, or just out to the backyard for a quiet moment with a good book and a chilled glass of white wine.

  • Author: Kari Jean - Joyista Life
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Chill Time: 30
  • Total Time: 15 minutes + chill time
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded 1 cup grapes, halved (red for sweetness, green for tartness—use what you love) 1/2 cup celery, diced small for crunch 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional but adds zip) 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch) 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang) 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar Salt & pepper, to taste Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped Optional: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or tarragon

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, celery, onion, and nuts.

  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayo, Dijon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until well combined.

  4. Taste and adjust seasoning. For best flavor, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

  5. Serve over a bed of greens, tucked into a croissant, or wrapped in butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option

Notes

Notes & Pairings

  • For a light lunch: Serve on whole grain toast with arugula and tomato slices.
  • For entertaining: Spoon into mini phyllo shells or serve in a hollowed avocado half.
  • To pair: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon compliments the flavors beautifully.
  • Make it ahead: This salad keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge, just stir before serving.

💡 Variations

  • Swap grapes for diced apples or dried cranberries
  • Add a pinch of curry powder to the dressing for a flavorful twist
  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time—flavorful and tender every time

This is the kind of recipe that feels like it belongs at every season of life—from weekday meal prep to bridal showers and garden parties. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Craving something fresh and satisfying? Give this chicken salad a try and let me know how you served it if over greens, in a croissant, or straight from the spoon! 🍇💬 Don’t forget to save or share this recipe for your next picnic or weekday lunch!

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice

 

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3/4 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Fat: 18
  • Carbohydrates: 8
  • Protein: 20

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

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by Joyista Life
Cucumber Avocado Pico de Gallo
May 14, 2025

Cucumber Avocado Pico de Gallo

A cool and creamy twist on the classic, perfect for warm days and light bites.

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by Joyista Life
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