Easy Lemon Blueberry Pancakes
These lemon blueberry pancakes are my favorite slow summer morning breakfast. Made with Kodiak Cakes, fresh lemon zest, and blueberries, cooked in ghee for crispy edges. Simple, protein-packed, and always a hit with the whole family.
Doesn’t this batter look bright and delicious?
Most summer mornings at our house aren’t slow.
They start early. There are shoes to find. Lunchboxes to pack. Some days, it’s frozen waffles and a half-hearted banana.
But when the rhythm loosens on the weekends, or when we’ve just decided we’re all tired. We pull out the pancake mix.
And not just any mix. Kodiak Cakes, milk + egg version, for extra protein.
Add a handful of fresh blueberries, a good dose of lemon zest, and suddenly, it feels like summer again.
Why These Pancakes Are on Repeat
They’re easy, for one.
The mix does most of the work. You just follow the box.
But it’s the lemon zest and fresh blueberries that make them feel a little special. Like, “hey, I tried” even when I didn’t try that hard.
They’re also one of the only things my six-year-old, my husband, and I all agree on. We make them together. We eat them outside if the weather’s nice. We stack them high and drizzle just enough syrup to make it weekend-worthy.
And I have a secret weapon:
Ghee or clarified butter in the pan.
It gives the pancakes those crispy, golden edges that feel just a little elevated.
(Not necessary. But so worth it.)
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Recipe
More of Rhythm than a recipe
Listen, I cook with vibes, not measurements. This is super easy. So, let’s go:
Kodiak Cakes (milk + egg option). I think the box says 1 cup Kodiak Cake mix, ¾ cup milk, 1 egg.
A handful of blueberries (fresh, not frozen)
A little lemon zest (I use a microplane )
Cook in ghee for crispy edges
Serve warm with butter, syrup, or whatever feels like love that morning
It’s light, fresh, and done in 30 minutes — and yes, my five-year-old calls it “butterfly pasta.”
A delicious stack of lemon blueberry pancakes drizzled in maple syrup
If you're looking for more things I reach for constantly in the kitchen, I wrote them all down here.
More recipes for warmer weather
Carolina Peach Cobbler (The Best Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe with Fresh Peaches)
This easy Carolina peach cobbler is made with juicy South Carolina peaches and a simple batter using self-rising flour. A true Southern summer classic, straight from a Carolina girl who knows her peaches.
Georgia might be called the “Peach State,” but let me tell you—nothing beats a juicy South Carolina freestone peach. Sweet, sun-ripened, and dripping with flavor, they’re what summer dreams are made of.
And in my (very biased) opinion, they’re the only kind of peaches worth baking into a cobbler.
Before peach season slips away, head to your local roadside stand or farmer’s market and grab a few. This easy Southern peach cobbler comes together in just minutes and is a perfect last hurrah for summer. It’s simple enough to whip up with kids in the kitchen and flavorful enough to bring to a potluck or summer Sunday dinner.
Secret ingredient:
South Carolina free stone peaches
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Uses self-rising flour – No need to measure baking powder or soda
Kid-friendly prep – Just mix, pour, and bake
Perfect for summer produce – Fresh, ripe peaches are the star
Don’t Miss Peach Season
Colder weather will be here before we know it, but there’s still time to enjoy one more sweet, sticky bite of summer. Serve this cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and watch it disappear.
Trust me: once you’ve had a Carolina peach cobbler, there’s no going back.
Make the Recipe:
Click here to download the printable recipe.
Carolina Peach Cobbler
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Ingredients:
1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup), melted
1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup whole milk
4–5 fresh South Carolina freestone peaches, peeled and sliced
1 tsp almond extract
Optional: cinnamon for sprinkling on top
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Pour the melted butter into a 9x13-inch baking dish (don’t stir it in!).
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and milk until mostly smooth.
Stir in vanilla (or almond) extract.
Pour the batter evenly over the butter — do not mix.
Layer the sliced peaches over the top.
Optional: sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with vanilla ice cream!
Tips & Swaps:
Don’t have self-rising flour? You can sub with 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt.
Frozen or canned peaches can work in a pinch, but fresh freestone peaches truly make it shine.
Want a little crunch? Add a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top before baking.
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
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Apple Cider Bellini
A bonus episode of Happiest Hour calls for a bonus cocktail! My guest on this episode, Kaci Bolls, brought in her friend’ss recipe for a Apple Cider Bellini. Let me tell ya, if this doesn’t taste like fall, I don’t know what does.
Make yourself this delicious libation and then come enjoy your conversation! The link is below to listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube!
A bonus episode of Happiest Hour calls for a bonus cocktail! My guest on this episode, Kaci Bolls, brought in her friend’s recipe for an Apple Cider Bellini. Let me tell ya, if this doesn’t taste like fall, I don’t know what does.
Make yourself this delicious libation and then come enjoy our conversation! The link is below to listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube!
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try this Dessert…
Bourbon Vanilla Apple Cider Donuts
Kaci’s Apple Cider Bellini reminded me of one of my favorite Happiest Hour recipes. It’s a really yummy fall staple from Episode 2. I thought I’d share it with you here!
Catch the episode!
Bonus Episode: Dare to Be Me with Kaci Bolls
A Delicious Hummus Hack
If you read about how I came up with the idea to launch my podcast, Happiest Hour, then you know I’ve been influenced by my favorite online influencer, Landyn Hutchinson (better known as Living with Landyn).
Last year sometime, Landyn shared a recipe for hummus she tried at a restaurant on the west coast. It just elevates the regular ol’ hummus dip from a package by mixing in some fresh herbs, cheese and a little kick (to taste).
I’ve adapted this idea into my own favorite hummus dip. I consider it a hack, since you use store bought hummus and just give it a little extra pizzaz. Give it a try, then whip up some frozen watermelon margaritas from Ep. 10 of the podcast (recipe below), and join my conversation with hit songwriter, Kirsti Manna!
If you read about how I came up with the idea to launch my podcast, Happiest Hour, then you know I’ve been influenced by my favorite online influencer, Landyn Hutchinson (better known as Living with Landyn).
Last year sometime, Landyn shared a recipe for hummus she tried at a restaurant on the west coast. It just elevates the regular ol’ hummus dip from a package by mixing in some fresh herbs, cheese and a little kick (to taste).
I’ve adapted this idea into my own favorite hummus dip. I consider it a hack, since you use store bought hummus and just give it a little extra pizzaz. Give it a try, then whip up some frozen watermelon margaritas from Ep. 10 of the podcast (recipe below), and join my conversation with hit songwriter, Kirsti Manna!
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try the Cocktail…
Frozen Watermelon Margarita
My guest in Ep. 10, Kirsti Manna, brought in the most amazing frozen watermelon margarita recipe to pair with her episode. Try it here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 10 - Staying Inspired with Kirsti Manna
Becky Knowles' Peanut Butter & Brown Sugar Sandwich (from Jay Knowles)
My guest on Ep. 09 of Happiest Hour, Jay Knowles, said to me: “How ‘bout I make the peanut butter and brown sugar sandwiches the way I remember incorrectly that my mom used to make.” That’s Jay’s sense of humor for ya! Eye ball this nostalgic after-school snack and enjoy the sweet and sticky memories. Read on for Jay’s recipe!
My guest on Ep. 09 of Happiest Hour, Jay Knowles, said to me: “How ‘bout I make the peanut butter and brown sugar sandwiches the way I remember incorrectly that my mom used to make.” That’s Jay’s sense of humor for ya!
Eye ball this nostalgic after-school snack and enjoy the sweet and sticky memories. Read on for Jay’s recipe!
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try the Drink…
Clever Coffee
My guest in Ep. 09, Jay Knowles, teaches us the secret to making the best cup of coffee… ever. Click here for the recipe!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 09 - The Art of Loosening Up with Jay Knowles
Clever Coffee Recipe
My guest on Ep. 9 of Happiest Hour podcast, Jay Knowles, asked if he could bring in a recipe and make black coffee in the very specific way he does. This recipe is more about the gadgets and tools needed to make an exceptional cup of coffee. Start with a high quality coffee bean and read on to learn how to make the best cup of coffee… ever.
My guest on Ep. 9 of Happiest Hour podcast, Jay Knowles, asked if he could bring in a recipe and make black coffee in the very specific way he does. This recipe is more about the gadgets and tools needed to make an exceptional cup of coffee.
Start with a high quality coffee bean (Jay and I are partial to Nashville’s local Frothy Monkey). Then, read on to learn how to make the best cup of coffee… ever.
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try this Nostalgic Snack…
Becky Knowles’ Peanut Butter & Brown Sugar Sandwich
We paired this super simple dessert dip with the French Toast Latte on Ep. 8. I made this for friends over Christmas break and it was a huge hit. Just throw a couple of ingredients into a skillet and bake. Viola! No campfire needed! Get the recipe here.
Catch the episode!
Ep. 09- The Art of Loosening Up with Jay Knowles
S'mores Dip
No campfire needed! This quick S’mores Dip recipe could not be easier. Just throw a couple of ingredients into a skillet and bake!
Over Christmas break, my family met dear friends in Breckenridge for a joint family ski vacation. I made this dessert dip after dinner one night at the house and it was a HUGE hit! I mean, if a snow ski trip doesn’t make you think “S’mores,” I don’t know what will.
The best part, you don’t need a campfire to get your chocolate and marshmallow fix. This quick dessert recipe could not be easier. Just pour a few ingredients into a skillet, bake and you’re done!
I originally found a recipe similar to this on Pinterest years ago, but I’ve tweaked it slightly for a gooey, delicious treat every time.
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try the Drink…
Iced French Toast Latte
My guest in Ep. 08, Risa Binder, brought over this yummy French Toast Latte. It’s dairy free (although you can make it with any milk you’d like), and can be served cold or hot. We made an iced version and it was so delicious! The spicy cinnamon and creamy oat milk mixed with slightest sweetness from honey. Yes please. Get yourself this decadent drink here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 08 - Living with Purpose with Risa Binder
Mary Helen's Shrimp Dip
This is a dish Mary Helen is known for in her family and friend group. And I am SO glad she chose to share it with us because, if you make this for your family, you’re going to be famous for it, too. If you like shellfish and spicy food, this super quick and easy side dish is out-of-this-world good!
A note on spicy: Mary Helen likes this dish with a kick. I’m glad about that because I absolutely love horseradish. So, here’s the thing: most prepared horseradish cream sauces won’t have a really good kick. To make this dish really shine, it’s important to use a high quality horseradish.
Mary Helen is a fan of Silver Spring Foods, which you can generally find at Publix, Kroger and possibly other grocery stores, or Atomic (find online).
Full transparency, my grocery store didn’t have these brands, so I did end up getting a prepared horseradish cream sauce by Boar’s Head, and even Mary Helen was impressed! We were surprised. It had a KICK!
This dish is versatile for holidays and celebrations all throughout the year. Spread the cream cheese mixture onto a red plate for Christmas, silver platter for New Years, or choose your favorite dish for a birthday. The green onions and lemon peel bring beautiful color to the presentation. This shrimp dish is a crowd pleaser in both taste and looks.
Bonappetite!
Try the Drink…
French 75 Cocktail
My guest in Ep. 05, Mary Helen Yarbrough, brought over this classic cocktail recipe, which pairs beautifully with the shrimp dip you just made! She also shared a few insider secrets about how to make the best drinks. It’s all waiting for you here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 05 - Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life with Mary Helen Yarbrough
Cowboy Caviar
My college besties, Kelly and Kelsey, and I used to make this dip all the time when we had an off-campus apartment. So, when Ashley from The Wildcards recommended something similar to pair with our podcast episode, I was super excited!
I’ll be honest, I eyeball everything in this recipe. Just sprinkle the herbs and spices to your taste. You can’t mess this up.
We didn’t add heat with jalapeno, but you certainly can if you like a little kick. Or use a can of Rotel instead of tomatoes.
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go!
Try the Drink…
Merry Margarita
My guest in Ep. 03, The Wildcards and I made this delicious craft cocktail together. This variation of a margarita is the perfect idea for the holidays and pairs well with the Cowboy Caviar dip! Grab the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 03 - Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Savory & Salty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
There are so many flavor variations out there for roasting pumpkin seeds. My personal favorite is a savory and salty seasoning that’s easy and delicious! I got the thumb’s up from my son, who loved the taste. My home smelled cozy and amazing during the roasting process, which is an extra bonus! Plus, I’m saving some money because nuts and seeds are expensive! I’ll eat a handful of seeds as a snack, sprinkle them in soup or on top of my salad for lunch.
Read on to get the recipe for perfectly roasted savory and salty pumpkin seeds.
When I was in college, my roommates and I would visit Gentry Farms in Franklin, TN and pick the perfect pumpkin, then carve a jack-o-lantern just before Halloween. I’m almost positive it was a Martha Stewart recipe for roasting pumpkin seeds that initially inspired me, and now I look forward to roasting my jack-o-lantern’s seeds every year. I doesn’t get more fall than that!
My two year old and I carved our jack-o-lantern this weekend and roasted the seeds. These days, I just go by memory for the recipe, so I’m sharing with you how I seasoned and achieved perfectly roasted pumpkin seeds.
There are so many flavor variations out there for roasting pumpkin seeds. My personal favorite is a savory and salty seasoning that’s easy and delicious! I got the thumb’s up from my son, who loved the taste. My home smelled cozy and amazing during the roasting process, which is an extra bonus! Plus, I’m saving some money because nuts and seeds are expensive! I’ll eat a handful of seeds as a snack, sprinkle them in soup or on top of my salad for lunch.
Read on to get the recipe for perfectly roasted savory and salty pumpkin seeds.
Recipe card for Savory & Salty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds by Lauren Lucas
Sweet & Spicy Avocado Toast
I don’t know about you, but I tend to eat the same thing for breakfast over and over again until I’m sick of it. Then, I stand in front of the refrigerator with the doors flung wide open wondering what to make because nothing sounds good.
Enter: sweet & spicy avocado toast!
Read on to learn how to make this super quick and easy breakfast recipe.
I have been LIVING for this avocado toast variation. I don’t know about you, but I tend to eat the same thing for breakfast over and over again until I’m sick of it. Then, I stand in front of the refrigerator with the doors flung wide open wondering what to make because nothing sounds good.
Enter: sweet & spicy avocado toast!
I used to make the standard avo toast — a little avocado sprinkled with salt. Or, I’d throw an egg on top. Those are good, but this recipe takes it to the next level for flavor.
My wellness coach, Cindy, first recommended I try this breakfast staple with gorgonzola cheese for some extra flavor. Cheese may as well be my love language, so I was all in for this suggestion. And the gorgonzola does pack a delicious punch!
Then, I started getting creative and improvising. It’s very mediterranean of me to combine pistachios and honey. That’s such a yummy combo! If you get Mike’s Hot Honey (or a similar brand), you’ll get just the right amount of heat.
On the other hand, I use regular honey (no heat) and remove the pistachios for my toddler. He loves the more simplistic avo toast with a little gorgonzola. (That seems awfully fancy for a 2-year-old, but he can’t get enough!)
I’m a busy mama trying to get the household together in the mornings and out the door. This sweet and spicy avocado recipe is super quick and easy. I also love that it’s full of nutrition with the whole wheat bread, healthy fats from the avocado and added protein from the nuts.
Give this variation a try. Or try your own variation and let me know what you come up with!
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