Nostalgic Recipes

There’s nothing quite like the familiar smell of a comfort classic dish from family reunions, holiday feasts, or simply one of mom’s favorite recipes. Whip up one of our takes on these delectable dishes and take an enjoyable (and tasty) trip down memory lane.

First on the list is Canola Oil Pound Cake. Many well-loved home cooks create memories with a tender, buttery pound cake with a perfect crust. Here’s an equally memorable lighter version featuring heart-healthy canola oil. Soaking the vanilla bean in the oil boosts its flavor.

Warm spices and brown sugar enhance the rich, caramelized flavors of carrot cake. Buttermilk and less butter help lighten the still tender cake, creating room for real cream cheese frosting.

This warming cocktail has a hint of subtle spice from cinnamon stick garnish that compliment the flavors well. For a nonalcoholic version, simply omit the rum; to make it sweeter, replace the rum with apple juice.

Potato salad is a traditional must-have for outdoor gatherings. This version is ready in less than 20 minutes.

Bright, creamy tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich for dunking is a happy and comforting rite of childhood. This version’s sure to please adults, too, with cheese toasts to replace the sandwich. Garnish with additional basil and a bit of crème fraîche, if desired.

No tricks here: Modest amounts of butter, bacon, and a mix of reduced-fat milk and half-and-half for richness enhance this version of a New England classic. Don’t forget a few oyster crackers.

One bite of a good lobster roll will transport you to a breezy summer day on a boardwalk in Maine. New England–style hot dog buns are top-split.

Meat loaf showed up in American cookbooks in 1899, and it’s been a national weeknight staple since, enjoyed hot or cold. This version includes sharp cheddar cheese and tangy buttermilk.

In about 30 minutes, you can have a bowl of this dish on your table, homemade meatballs included. Serve with a simple green salad.

Enjoy the sweet taste of the maple-cider brine against the rich flavor of the bourbon-cider gravy for an unbeatable dish.

Treat your family to an out-of-this-world weekend breakfast or brunch featuring these decadent sticky buns.

This is a breakfast treat that will revive childhood memories or make new ones: Bits of dough are rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked together. A creamy glaze coats the top, making them unforgettable.

Maple syrup and bourbon lend the pie an old-time sweetness. For a decadent treat, top warm pie with vanilla low-fat ice cream.

Start a party with some wow and update deviled eggs with this New Orleans– inspired twist: The filling is a tangy, spicy, creamy, and crunchy mix; hot pickled okra adds a unique garnish and a kick.

Old-Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup is classic American comfort food. Flavorful stock, fresh-cooked chicken, traditional vegetables, and egg noodles lend starchy body to the broth of this favorite soup.