banana cream pudding   Credit: Photographer Bryan Gardner; Food Stylist Laura Rege; Prop Stylist Paige Hicks



banana cream pudding   Credit: Photographer Bryan Gardner; Food Stylist Laura Rege; Prop Stylist Paige Hicks

banana cream pudding Credit: Photographer Bryan Gardner; Food Stylist Laura Rege; Prop Stylist Paige Hicks

banana cream pudding

Credit: Photographer Bryan Gardner; Food Stylist Laura Rege; Prop Stylist Paige Hicks

At the end of the year, it’s natural to look back and reflect on the last 365 days’ highlights. For us, that involves taking stock of our recipes, especially the ones that you really loved. To identify our most popular recipes of 2022, we headed over to our Instagram feed.

If there’s a common thread running through this collection of our most double-tapped, commented on, and shared recipes, it’s that they all have the one-two punch of great looks and equally great taste. Our followers have also spoken—and they clearly love dessert! Over half of the recipes on this list fall under the sweets category.

Our round-up is full of familiar classics, too, from mashed potatoes and egg sandwiches to apple pie and banana cream pudding (see what you mean about dessert?). Fun twists and little tricks take the usuals from good to great—think fried squares of macaroni and cheese or a traditional toaster pastry, supersized and made with homemade jam.

And while all of these dishes do look stunning, you can rest assured that most of them eschew special techniques or advanced culinary knowledge. In fact, the majority are simple and straightforward, so you can have your own Instagram-worthy dish without breaking a sweat. Below, discover our countdown to our most-loved recipe—we have a feeling the dish that holds the number-one slot will surprise you.

      mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg         New York-Style Cheesecake    View Recipe   Our top 20 countdown starts with this cheesecake, which is a great example of a dessert that tastes better after a day in the fridge. The flavors have time to develop and the result is a wonderfully rich dessert that cheesecake lovers will adore.                med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg         Spinach Manicotti in Creamy Tomato Sauce    View Recipe   Coming in at number 19 is this clever recipe that features a fuss-free method for stuffing pasta shells—and turns this classic Italian dish into a regular weeknight option. A large zip-top plastic bag is the only equipment you need to fill the pasta shells. Then, bake until bubbling and browned.              raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake         Vanilla Heart-Shaped Cake with Raspberry-and-Custard-Filling    View Recipe   This beautiful Valentine's Day layer cake got so much love from our Instagram followers, that it made number 18 on our list. To make it, sandwich homemade vanilla pastry cream and fresh raspberries between the layers, then artfully decorate the creation with more of both—along with ethereal shredded coconut, of course.               Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars         Atlantic-Beach-Tart Bars    View Recipe   Yet another beautiful dessert holds the number 17 spot. Lemons bars meet key lime pie in this luscious hybrid. The creamy filling includes sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice for the creamy filling, and the press-in saltine crust couldn't be easier to put together.             mashed potatoes with cream cheese         Big Martha's Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese    View Recipe   A favorite recipe from Martha's mom, Mrs. Kostyra, is next. It combines cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream to produce a rich and velvety version of mashed potatoes.              strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries         Strawberries and Cream Stack Cake    View Recipe   This is such a stunner, and that's why this no-bake, make-ahead treat comes in at number 15. It's also easy to make: Just whisk mascarpone and heavy cream into glossy peaks, soak store-bought ladyfingers in a quick caramel, and layer both with sliced fresh strawberries. Let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, and they'll end up with  the texture of a traditional sponge cake without any baking.              apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg         Apple Dumplings    View Recipe   Martha's take on a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert clocked in at number 14. These old-fashioned apple pastries are spiced with cinnamon and studded with raisins.             Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole         Egg Sandwiches for a Crowd    View Recipe   We think this recipe grabbed thirteenth place because it's so clever. A quick, no-fuss frittata is a genius solution to making breakfast for a crowd. It's made in a baking dish, then sliced and placed on toast slathered with Dijonnaise. And although the recipe calls for leftover turkey, you can use cooked chicken or sausage—or just skip the meat completely.              double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries         Double-Crusted Jam Tart    View Recipe   Though it looks fancy and advanced, this giant toaster pastry—at number 12—is really just jam spooned between two layers of rolled-out crust. You can use any fruit or flavor, but we love this recipe with homemade peach jam.             serrano mint margaritas         Smoky Serrano-Mint Margarita    View Recipe   The only cocktail on our top 20 recipe list came in at number 11. It's a margarita, but an unexpected one. It starts with a charred serrano chile that's muddled with sugar and fresh mint, then mixed with the margarita trifecta: tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.              mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg         Fried Macaroni-and-Cheese Bites    View Recipe   It's easy to see why our Instagram followers love this recipe. This crowd-pleaser is truly next level and a hit at every party. To make these fried morsels, prepare the stovetop mac and cheese a few days ahead and let it firm up in the refrigerator for easier cutting. Then, bread and fry them to crispy perfection.              embellished wreath cookies         Embellished Wreath Cookies    View Recipe   Elevating a classic is so Martha, and this recipe, coming in at number nine, is a wonderful example. Buttery sugar cookies are the ideal backdrop for brilliantly decorated treats made using a fanciful combination of candied flowers, crystallized ginger, and chopped pistachios.              meyer lemon coconut cake         Meyer-Lemon and Coconut Layer Cake    View Recipe   A truly memorable and totally delightful dessert took home eighth place. It combines moist coconut cake and rich coconut-lemon curd, but the pièce de résistance is the coconut buttercream frosting.             apple pie cake         Apple Pie Cake    View Recipe   Yes, more dessert, and another clever hybrid recipe, claimed the number seven slot. If baking a pie seems like too much, try this cross between apple pie and a fruit crisp. It's made with just six ingredients using a springform pan that beautifully accommodates the tall layers.              cherry cheese strudel pie         Cherry-Cheese Strudel Pie    View Recipe   There are so many things to love about this strudel-inspired confection that holds sixth place. Did our Instagram users fall for its gorgeous twisted crust, marbleized cream-and-fruit filling, and next-level flavor combination (creamy ricotta melded with tart cherries), or were they simply wowed by the stunning image?             chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg         Chicken Pot Pies    View Recipe   Chicken pot pie is a cozy favorite—and this recipe takes the comfort food classic up a notch, making individual pies rather than a single big one. Is that why it's the fifth most popular recipe on our list? Perhaps—or, it could be the secret ingredient, cognac, that won you over. Just a third of a cup deepens the flavor of all the other ingredients.              banana cream pudding         Banana Cream Pudding    View Recipe   In fourth place is banana pudding, a favorite Southern dessert. Our recipe adds chopped banana to a homemade vanilla pudding that's layered with whipped cream, sliced bananas, and wafer cookies, giving it even more delightful flavor.             apple cider donut cake         Apple-Cider Donut Cake    View Recipe   Our top three kicks off with this beautiful fall dessert that combines the taste of the traditional treats often sold at farmers' markets with the slice-ability of a Bundt cake. Whole-wheat flour adds heartiness, and a blend of olive oil and applesauce keeps the cake moist.              best apple pie sliced on gray countertop         Best Apple Pie    View Recipe   Number two is a classic and sentimental favorite. It's also the third apple dessert on our top 20, in case you're counting. So, what's the secret to this apple pie? Combining different varieties of apples: Each one brings a different flavor and texture, resulting in a bold and aromatic pie everyone will love.             pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg         Pigs in Blankets    View Recipe   Drum roll, please! In a top 20 packed with desserts, you might be surprised to find an appetizer at number one. We were, until we realized it's a true Martha-level recipe—a classic with clever tweaks. It swaps in andouille or chicken sausages for the usual hot dogs and calls for brushing the puff pastry with honey mustard before baking. Both twists add a savory-sweet element that's unexpected and wholly delicious.   

     mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg         New York-Style Cheesecake    View Recipe   Our top 20 countdown starts with this cheesecake, which is a great example of a dessert that tastes better after a day in the fridge. The flavors have time to develop and the result is a wonderfully rich dessert that cheesecake lovers will adore.   

     med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg         Spinach Manicotti in Creamy Tomato Sauce    View Recipe   Coming in at number 19 is this clever recipe that features a fuss-free method for stuffing pasta shells—and turns this classic Italian dish into a regular weeknight option. A large zip-top plastic bag is the only equipment you need to fill the pasta shells. Then, bake until bubbling and browned.    

     raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake         Vanilla Heart-Shaped Cake with Raspberry-and-Custard-Filling    View Recipe   This beautiful Valentine's Day layer cake got so much love from our Instagram followers, that it made number 18 on our list. To make it, sandwich homemade vanilla pastry cream and fresh raspberries between the layers, then artfully decorate the creation with more of both—along with ethereal shredded coconut, of course.   

     Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars         Atlantic-Beach-Tart Bars    View Recipe   Yet another beautiful dessert holds the number 17 spot. Lemons bars meet key lime pie in this luscious hybrid. The creamy filling includes sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice for the creamy filling, and the press-in saltine crust couldn't be easier to put together.   

     mashed potatoes with cream cheese         Big Martha's Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese    View Recipe   A favorite recipe from Martha's mom, Mrs. Kostyra, is next. It combines cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream to produce a rich and velvety version of mashed potatoes.   

     strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries         Strawberries and Cream Stack Cake    View Recipe   This is such a stunner, and that's why this no-bake, make-ahead treat comes in at number 15. It's also easy to make: Just whisk mascarpone and heavy cream into glossy peaks, soak store-bought ladyfingers in a quick caramel, and layer both with sliced fresh strawberries. Let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, and they'll end up with  the texture of a traditional sponge cake without any baking.   

     apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg         Apple Dumplings    View Recipe   Martha's take on a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert clocked in at number 14. These old-fashioned apple pastries are spiced with cinnamon and studded with raisins.   

     Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole         Egg Sandwiches for a Crowd    View Recipe   We think this recipe grabbed thirteenth place because it's so clever. A quick, no-fuss frittata is a genius solution to making breakfast for a crowd. It's made in a baking dish, then sliced and placed on toast slathered with Dijonnaise. And although the recipe calls for leftover turkey, you can use cooked chicken or sausage—or just skip the meat completely.   

     double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries         Double-Crusted Jam Tart    View Recipe   Though it looks fancy and advanced, this giant toaster pastry—at number 12—is really just jam spooned between two layers of rolled-out crust. You can use any fruit or flavor, but we love this recipe with homemade peach jam.   

     serrano mint margaritas         Smoky Serrano-Mint Margarita    View Recipe   The only cocktail on our top 20 recipe list came in at number 11. It's a margarita, but an unexpected one. It starts with a charred serrano chile that's muddled with sugar and fresh mint, then mixed with the margarita trifecta: tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.   

     mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg         Fried Macaroni-and-Cheese Bites    View Recipe   It's easy to see why our Instagram followers love this recipe. This crowd-pleaser is truly next level and a hit at every party. To make these fried morsels, prepare the stovetop mac and cheese a few days ahead and let it firm up in the refrigerator for easier cutting. Then, bread and fry them to crispy perfection.    

     embellished wreath cookies         Embellished Wreath Cookies    View Recipe   Elevating a classic is so Martha, and this recipe, coming in at number nine, is a wonderful example. Buttery sugar cookies are the ideal backdrop for brilliantly decorated treats made using a fanciful combination of candied flowers, crystallized ginger, and chopped pistachios.   

     meyer lemon coconut cake         Meyer-Lemon and Coconut Layer Cake    View Recipe   A truly memorable and totally delightful dessert took home eighth place. It combines moist coconut cake and rich coconut-lemon curd, but the pièce de résistance is the coconut buttercream frosting.   

     apple pie cake         Apple Pie Cake    View Recipe   Yes, more dessert, and another clever hybrid recipe, claimed the number seven slot. If baking a pie seems like too much, try this cross between apple pie and a fruit crisp. It's made with just six ingredients using a springform pan that beautifully accommodates the tall layers.   

     cherry cheese strudel pie         Cherry-Cheese Strudel Pie    View Recipe   There are so many things to love about this strudel-inspired confection that holds sixth place. Did our Instagram users fall for its gorgeous twisted crust, marbleized cream-and-fruit filling, and next-level flavor combination (creamy ricotta melded with tart cherries), or were they simply wowed by the stunning image?   

     chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg         Chicken Pot Pies    View Recipe   Chicken pot pie is a cozy favorite—and this recipe takes the comfort food classic up a notch, making individual pies rather than a single big one. Is that why it's the fifth most popular recipe on our list? Perhaps—or, it could be the secret ingredient, cognac, that won you over. Just a third of a cup deepens the flavor of all the other ingredients.   

     banana cream pudding         Banana Cream Pudding    View Recipe   In fourth place is banana pudding, a favorite Southern dessert. Our recipe adds chopped banana to a homemade vanilla pudding that's layered with whipped cream, sliced bananas, and wafer cookies, giving it even more delightful flavor.   

     apple cider donut cake         Apple-Cider Donut Cake    View Recipe   Our top three kicks off with this beautiful fall dessert that combines the taste of the traditional treats often sold at farmers' markets with the slice-ability of a Bundt cake. Whole-wheat flour adds heartiness, and a blend of olive oil and applesauce keeps the cake moist.   

     best apple pie sliced on gray countertop         Best Apple Pie    View Recipe   Number two is a classic and sentimental favorite. It's also the third apple dessert on our top 20, in case you're counting. So, what's the secret to this apple pie? Combining different varieties of apples: Each one brings a different flavor and texture, resulting in a bold and aromatic pie everyone will love.   

     pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg         Pigs in Blankets    View Recipe   Drum roll, please! In a top 20 packed with desserts, you might be surprised to find an appetizer at number one. We were, until we realized it's a true Martha-level recipe—a classic with clever tweaks. It swaps in andouille or chicken sausages for the usual hot dogs and calls for brushing the puff pastry with honey mustard before baking. Both twists add a savory-sweet element that's unexpected and wholly delicious.   

   mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg         New York-Style Cheesecake    View Recipe   Our top 20 countdown starts with this cheesecake, which is a great example of a dessert that tastes better after a day in the fridge. The flavors have time to develop and the result is a wonderfully rich dessert that cheesecake lovers will adore.  

  mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg      

New York-Style Cheesecake

View Recipe

Our top 20 countdown starts with this cheesecake, which is a great example of a dessert that tastes better after a day in the fridge. The flavors have time to develop and the result is a wonderfully rich dessert that cheesecake lovers will adore.

 mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg     

mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg    

mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg

mb_1003_cheesecake.jpg

New York-Style Cheesecake

Our top 20 countdown starts with this cheesecake, which is a great example of a dessert that tastes better after a day in the fridge. The flavors have time to develop and the result is a wonderfully rich dessert that cheesecake lovers will adore.

   med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg         Spinach Manicotti in Creamy Tomato Sauce    View Recipe   Coming in at number 19 is this clever recipe that features a fuss-free method for stuffing pasta shells—and turns this classic Italian dish into a regular weeknight option. A large zip-top plastic bag is the only equipment you need to fill the pasta shells. Then, bake until bubbling and browned.   

  med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg      

Spinach Manicotti in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Coming in at number 19 is this clever recipe that features a fuss-free method for stuffing pasta shells—and turns this classic Italian dish into a regular weeknight option. A large zip-top plastic bag is the only equipment you need to fill the pasta shells. Then, bake until bubbling and browned.

 med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg     

med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg    

med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg

med106330_1210_din_spinach_manicotti.jpg

Spinach Manicotti in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Coming in at number 19 is this clever recipe that features a fuss-free method for stuffing pasta shells—and turns this classic Italian dish into a regular weeknight option. A large zip-top plastic bag is the only equipment you need to fill the pasta shells. Then, bake until bubbling and browned.

   raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake         Vanilla Heart-Shaped Cake with Raspberry-and-Custard-Filling    View Recipe   This beautiful Valentine's Day layer cake got so much love from our Instagram followers, that it made number 18 on our list. To make it, sandwich homemade vanilla pastry cream and fresh raspberries between the layers, then artfully decorate the creation with more of both—along with ethereal shredded coconut, of course.  

  raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake      

Vanilla Heart-Shaped Cake with Raspberry-and-Custard-Filling

This beautiful Valentine’s Day layer cake got so much love from our Instagram followers, that it made number 18 on our list. To make it, sandwich homemade vanilla pastry cream and fresh raspberries between the layers, then artfully decorate the creation with more of both—along with ethereal shredded coconut, of course.

 raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake     

raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake    

raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake

raspberry-and-custard-filled vanilla heart cake

Vanilla Heart-Shaped Cake with Raspberry-and-Custard-Filling

This beautiful Valentine’s Day layer cake got so much love from our Instagram followers, that it made number 18 on our list. To make it, sandwich homemade vanilla pastry cream and fresh raspberries between the layers, then artfully decorate the creation with more of both—along with ethereal shredded coconut, of course.

   Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars         Atlantic-Beach-Tart Bars    View Recipe   Yet another beautiful dessert holds the number 17 spot. Lemons bars meet key lime pie in this luscious hybrid. The creamy filling includes sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice for the creamy filling, and the press-in saltine crust couldn't be easier to put together.  

  Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars      

Atlantic-Beach-Tart Bars

Yet another beautiful dessert holds the number 17 spot. Lemons bars meet key lime pie in this luscious hybrid. The creamy filling includes sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice for the creamy filling, and the press-in saltine crust couldn’t be easier to put together.

 Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars     

Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars    

Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars

Atlantic Beach-Tart Bars

Atlantic-Beach-Tart Bars

Yet another beautiful dessert holds the number 17 spot. Lemons bars meet key lime pie in this luscious hybrid. The creamy filling includes sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice for the creamy filling, and the press-in saltine crust couldn’t be easier to put together.

   mashed potatoes with cream cheese         Big Martha's Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese    View Recipe   A favorite recipe from Martha's mom, Mrs. Kostyra, is next. It combines cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream to produce a rich and velvety version of mashed potatoes.  

  mashed potatoes with cream cheese      

Big Martha’s Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

A favorite recipe from Martha’s mom, Mrs. Kostyra, is next. It combines cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream to produce a rich and velvety version of mashed potatoes.

 mashed potatoes with cream cheese     

mashed potatoes with cream cheese    

mashed potatoes with cream cheese

mashed potatoes with cream cheese

Big Martha’s Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

A favorite recipe from Martha’s mom, Mrs. Kostyra, is next. It combines cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream to produce a rich and velvety version of mashed potatoes.

   strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries         Strawberries and Cream Stack Cake    View Recipe   This is such a stunner, and that's why this no-bake, make-ahead treat comes in at number 15. It's also easy to make: Just whisk mascarpone and heavy cream into glossy peaks, soak store-bought ladyfingers in a quick caramel, and layer both with sliced fresh strawberries. Let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, and they'll end up with  the texture of a traditional sponge cake without any baking.  

  strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries      

Strawberries and Cream Stack Cake

This is such a stunner, and that’s why this no-bake, make-ahead treat comes in at number 15. It’s also easy to make: Just whisk mascarpone and heavy cream into glossy peaks, soak store-bought ladyfingers in a quick caramel, and layer both with sliced fresh strawberries. Let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, and they’ll end up with  the texture of a traditional sponge cake without any baking.

 strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries     

strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries    

strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries

strawberries-and-cream stack cake topped with fresh strawberries

Strawberries and Cream Stack Cake

This is such a stunner, and that’s why this no-bake, make-ahead treat comes in at number 15. It’s also easy to make: Just whisk mascarpone and heavy cream into glossy peaks, soak store-bought ladyfingers in a quick caramel, and layer both with sliced fresh strawberries. Let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, and they’ll end up with  the texture of a traditional sponge cake without any baking.

   apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg         Apple Dumplings    View Recipe   Martha's take on a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert clocked in at number 14. These old-fashioned apple pastries are spiced with cinnamon and studded with raisins.  

  apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg      

Apple Dumplings

Martha’s take on a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert clocked in at number 14. These old-fashioned apple pastries are spiced with cinnamon and studded with raisins.

 apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg     

apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg    

apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg

apple-dumplings-171-vert-d113085.jpg

Apple Dumplings

Martha’s take on a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert clocked in at number 14. These old-fashioned apple pastries are spiced with cinnamon and studded with raisins.

   Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole         Egg Sandwiches for a Crowd    View Recipe   We think this recipe grabbed thirteenth place because it's so clever. A quick, no-fuss frittata is a genius solution to making breakfast for a crowd. It's made in a baking dish, then sliced and placed on toast slathered with Dijonnaise. And although the recipe calls for leftover turkey, you can use cooked chicken or sausage—or just skip the meat completely.  

  Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole      

Egg Sandwiches for a Crowd

We think this recipe grabbed thirteenth place because it’s so clever. A quick, no-fuss frittata is a genius solution to making breakfast for a crowd. It’s made in a baking dish, then sliced and placed on toast slathered with Dijonnaise. And although the recipe calls for leftover turkey, you can use cooked chicken or sausage—or just skip the meat completely.

 Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole     

Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole    

Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole

Egg Sandwiches with sauce and casserole

Egg Sandwiches for a Crowd

We think this recipe grabbed thirteenth place because it’s so clever. A quick, no-fuss frittata is a genius solution to making breakfast for a crowd. It’s made in a baking dish, then sliced and placed on toast slathered with Dijonnaise. And although the recipe calls for leftover turkey, you can use cooked chicken or sausage—or just skip the meat completely.

   double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries         Double-Crusted Jam Tart    View Recipe   Though it looks fancy and advanced, this giant toaster pastry—at number 12—is really just jam spooned between two layers of rolled-out crust. You can use any fruit or flavor, but we love this recipe with homemade peach jam.  

  double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries      

Double-Crusted Jam Tart

Though it looks fancy and advanced, this giant toaster pastry—at number 12—is really just jam spooned between two layers of rolled-out crust. You can use any fruit or flavor, but we love this recipe with homemade peach jam.

 double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries     

double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries    

double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries

double-crusted jam tart topped with finely ground berries

Double-Crusted Jam Tart

Though it looks fancy and advanced, this giant toaster pastry—at number 12—is really just jam spooned between two layers of rolled-out crust. You can use any fruit or flavor, but we love this recipe with homemade peach jam.

   serrano mint margaritas         Smoky Serrano-Mint Margarita    View Recipe   The only cocktail on our top 20 recipe list came in at number 11. It's a margarita, but an unexpected one. It starts with a charred serrano chile that's muddled with sugar and fresh mint, then mixed with the margarita trifecta: tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.  

  serrano mint margaritas      

Smoky Serrano-Mint Margarita

The only cocktail on our top 20 recipe list came in at number 11. It’s a margarita, but an unexpected one. It starts with a charred serrano chile that’s muddled with sugar and fresh mint, then mixed with the margarita trifecta: tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.

 serrano mint margaritas     

serrano mint margaritas    

serrano mint margaritas

serrano mint margaritas

Smoky Serrano-Mint Margarita

The only cocktail on our top 20 recipe list came in at number 11. It’s a margarita, but an unexpected one. It starts with a charred serrano chile that’s muddled with sugar and fresh mint, then mixed with the margarita trifecta: tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.

   mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg         Fried Macaroni-and-Cheese Bites    View Recipe   It's easy to see why our Instagram followers love this recipe. This crowd-pleaser is truly next level and a hit at every party. To make these fried morsels, prepare the stovetop mac and cheese a few days ahead and let it firm up in the refrigerator for easier cutting. Then, bread and fry them to crispy perfection.   

  mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg      

Fried Macaroni-and-Cheese Bites

It’s easy to see why our Instagram followers love this recipe. This crowd-pleaser is truly next level and a hit at every party. To make these fried morsels, prepare the stovetop mac and cheese a few days ahead and let it firm up in the refrigerator for easier cutting. Then, bread and fry them to crispy perfection. 

 mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg     

mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg    

mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg

mini-mac-and-cheese-4021-d111358-0815.jpg

Fried Macaroni-and-Cheese Bites

It’s easy to see why our Instagram followers love this recipe. This crowd-pleaser is truly next level and a hit at every party. To make these fried morsels, prepare the stovetop mac and cheese a few days ahead and let it firm up in the refrigerator for easier cutting. Then, bread and fry them to crispy perfection. 

   embellished wreath cookies         Embellished Wreath Cookies    View Recipe   Elevating a classic is so Martha, and this recipe, coming in at number nine, is a wonderful example. Buttery sugar cookies are the ideal backdrop for brilliantly decorated treats made using a fanciful combination of candied flowers, crystallized ginger, and chopped pistachios.  

  embellished wreath cookies      

Embellished Wreath Cookies

Elevating a classic is so Martha, and this recipe, coming in at number nine, is a wonderful example. Buttery sugar cookies are the ideal backdrop for brilliantly decorated treats made using a fanciful combination of candied flowers, crystallized ginger, and chopped pistachios.

 embellished wreath cookies     

embellished wreath cookies    

embellished wreath cookies

embellished wreath cookies

Embellished Wreath Cookies

Elevating a classic is so Martha, and this recipe, coming in at number nine, is a wonderful example. Buttery sugar cookies are the ideal backdrop for brilliantly decorated treats made using a fanciful combination of candied flowers, crystallized ginger, and chopped pistachios.

   meyer lemon coconut cake         Meyer-Lemon and Coconut Layer Cake    View Recipe   A truly memorable and totally delightful dessert took home eighth place. It combines moist coconut cake and rich coconut-lemon curd, but the pièce de résistance is the coconut buttercream frosting.  

  meyer lemon coconut cake      

Meyer-Lemon and Coconut Layer Cake

A truly memorable and totally delightful dessert took home eighth place. It combines moist coconut cake and rich coconut-lemon curd, but the pièce de résistance is the coconut buttercream frosting.

 meyer lemon coconut cake     

meyer lemon coconut cake    

meyer lemon coconut cake

meyer lemon coconut cake

Meyer-Lemon and Coconut Layer Cake

A truly memorable and totally delightful dessert took home eighth place. It combines moist coconut cake and rich coconut-lemon curd, but the pièce de résistance is the coconut buttercream frosting.

   apple pie cake         Apple Pie Cake    View Recipe   Yes, more dessert, and another clever hybrid recipe, claimed the number seven slot. If baking a pie seems like too much, try this cross between apple pie and a fruit crisp. It's made with just six ingredients using a springform pan that beautifully accommodates the tall layers.  

  apple pie cake      

Apple Pie Cake

Yes, more dessert, and another clever hybrid recipe, claimed the number seven slot. If baking a pie seems like too much, try this cross between apple pie and a fruit crisp. It’s made with just six ingredients using a springform pan that beautifully accommodates the tall layers.

 apple pie cake     

apple pie cake    

apple pie cake

apple pie cake

Apple Pie Cake

Yes, more dessert, and another clever hybrid recipe, claimed the number seven slot. If baking a pie seems like too much, try this cross between apple pie and a fruit crisp. It’s made with just six ingredients using a springform pan that beautifully accommodates the tall layers.

   cherry cheese strudel pie         Cherry-Cheese Strudel Pie    View Recipe   There are so many things to love about this strudel-inspired confection that holds sixth place. Did our Instagram users fall for its gorgeous twisted crust, marbleized cream-and-fruit filling, and next-level flavor combination (creamy ricotta melded with tart cherries), or were they simply wowed by the stunning image?  

  cherry cheese strudel pie      

Cherry-Cheese Strudel Pie

There are so many things to love about this strudel-inspired confection that holds sixth place. Did our Instagram users fall for its gorgeous twisted crust, marbleized cream-and-fruit filling, and next-level flavor combination (creamy ricotta melded with tart cherries), or were they simply wowed by the stunning image?

 cherry cheese strudel pie     

cherry cheese strudel pie    

cherry cheese strudel pie

cherry cheese strudel pie

Cherry-Cheese Strudel Pie

There are so many things to love about this strudel-inspired confection that holds sixth place. Did our Instagram users fall for its gorgeous twisted crust, marbleized cream-and-fruit filling, and next-level flavor combination (creamy ricotta melded with tart cherries), or were they simply wowed by the stunning image?

   chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg         Chicken Pot Pies    View Recipe   Chicken pot pie is a cozy favorite—and this recipe takes the comfort food classic up a notch, making individual pies rather than a single big one. Is that why it's the fifth most popular recipe on our list? Perhaps—or, it could be the secret ingredient, cognac, that won you over. Just a third of a cup deepens the flavor of all the other ingredients.  

  chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg      

Chicken Pot Pies

Chicken pot pie is a cozy favorite—and this recipe takes the comfort food classic up a notch, making individual pies rather than a single big one. Is that why it’s the fifth most popular recipe on our list? Perhaps—or, it could be the secret ingredient, cognac, that won you over. Just a third of a cup deepens the flavor of all the other ingredients.

 chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg     

chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg    

chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg

chickenpotpie-cs301-d110633.jpg

Chicken Pot Pies

Chicken pot pie is a cozy favorite—and this recipe takes the comfort food classic up a notch, making individual pies rather than a single big one. Is that why it’s the fifth most popular recipe on our list? Perhaps—or, it could be the secret ingredient, cognac, that won you over. Just a third of a cup deepens the flavor of all the other ingredients.

   banana cream pudding         Banana Cream Pudding    View Recipe   In fourth place is banana pudding, a favorite Southern dessert. Our recipe adds chopped banana to a homemade vanilla pudding that's layered with whipped cream, sliced bananas, and wafer cookies, giving it even more delightful flavor.  

  banana cream pudding      

Banana Cream Pudding

In fourth place is banana pudding, a favorite Southern dessert. Our recipe adds chopped banana to a homemade vanilla pudding that’s layered with whipped cream, sliced bananas, and wafer cookies, giving it even more delightful flavor.

 banana cream pudding     

banana cream pudding    

banana cream pudding

Banana Cream Pudding

In fourth place is banana pudding, a favorite Southern dessert. Our recipe adds chopped banana to a homemade vanilla pudding that’s layered with whipped cream, sliced bananas, and wafer cookies, giving it even more delightful flavor.

   apple cider donut cake         Apple-Cider Donut Cake    View Recipe   Our top three kicks off with this beautiful fall dessert that combines the taste of the traditional treats often sold at farmers' markets with the slice-ability of a Bundt cake. Whole-wheat flour adds heartiness, and a blend of olive oil and applesauce keeps the cake moist.  

  apple cider donut cake      

Apple-Cider Donut Cake

Our top three kicks off with this beautiful fall dessert that combines the taste of the traditional treats often sold at farmers’ markets with the slice-ability of a Bundt cake. Whole-wheat flour adds heartiness, and a blend of olive oil and applesauce keeps the cake moist.

 apple cider donut cake     

apple cider donut cake    

apple cider donut cake

apple cider donut cake

Apple-Cider Donut Cake

Our top three kicks off with this beautiful fall dessert that combines the taste of the traditional treats often sold at farmers’ markets with the slice-ability of a Bundt cake. Whole-wheat flour adds heartiness, and a blend of olive oil and applesauce keeps the cake moist.

   best apple pie sliced on gray countertop         Best Apple Pie    View Recipe   Number two is a classic and sentimental favorite. It's also the third apple dessert on our top 20, in case you're counting. So, what's the secret to this apple pie? Combining different varieties of apples: Each one brings a different flavor and texture, resulting in a bold and aromatic pie everyone will love.  

  best apple pie sliced on gray countertop      

Best Apple Pie

Number two is a classic and sentimental favorite. It’s also the third apple dessert on our top 20, in case you’re counting. So, what’s the secret to this apple pie? Combining different varieties of apples: Each one brings a different flavor and texture, resulting in a bold and aromatic pie everyone will love.

 best apple pie sliced on gray countertop     

best apple pie sliced on gray countertop    

best apple pie sliced on gray countertop

best apple pie sliced on gray countertop

Best Apple Pie

Number two is a classic and sentimental favorite. It’s also the third apple dessert on our top 20, in case you’re counting. So, what’s the secret to this apple pie? Combining different varieties of apples: Each one brings a different flavor and texture, resulting in a bold and aromatic pie everyone will love.

   pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg         Pigs in Blankets    View Recipe   Drum roll, please! In a top 20 packed with desserts, you might be surprised to find an appetizer at number one. We were, until we realized it's a true Martha-level recipe—a classic with clever tweaks. It swaps in andouille or chicken sausages for the usual hot dogs and calls for brushing the puff pastry with honey mustard before baking. Both twists add a savory-sweet element that's unexpected and wholly delicious.  

  pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg      

Pigs in Blankets

Drum roll, please! In a top 20 packed with desserts, you might be surprised to find an appetizer at number one. We were, until we realized it’s a true Martha-level recipe—a classic with clever tweaks. It swaps in andouille or chicken sausages for the usual hot dogs and calls for brushing the puff pastry with honey mustard before baking. Both twists add a savory-sweet element that’s unexpected and wholly delicious.

 pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg     

pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg    

pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg

pigs-in-blankets-mld110654.jpg

Pigs in Blankets

Drum roll, please! In a top 20 packed with desserts, you might be surprised to find an appetizer at number one. We were, until we realized it’s a true Martha-level recipe—a classic with clever tweaks. It swaps in andouille or chicken sausages for the usual hot dogs and calls for brushing the puff pastry with honey mustard before baking. Both twists add a savory-sweet element that’s unexpected and wholly delicious.