Barbara Costello, affectionately known as Babs, has become a beloved surrogate grandma to millions on TikTok through her heartwarming Brunch With Babs account. Her easy recipes, practical lifestyle tips, and jaunty energy have garnered nearly 50 million likes, making her a social media sensation. With a best-selling cookbook and a partnership with Pop-Tarts under her belt, Babs’s warmth and creativity continue to captivate audiences. Today, she shares her top kitchen hacks that will simplify your cooking experience and elevate your dishes.
Gut a Pumpkin With a Hand Mixer
Having raised four children while working as a preschool teacher, Babs knows the importance of efficiency. Cleaning out pumpkins can be messy and time-consuming, but she has a brilliant solution. “The pumpkin cleaning one was huge,” she shares. Using a hand mixer, you can easily loosen all the pumpkin hairs and seeds, making the process a breeze.
Pre-Scoop Ice Cream Into Cupcake Liners
Planning a party or get-together? Babs has the perfect time-saving trick for you. “Another one people loved was the ice cream tip,” she recalls. Pre-scoop ice cream into cupcake liners placed in a cupcake pan before the event. This way, serving ice cream to your guests becomes a hassle-free experience. For a more enjoyable cooking experience, Babs emphasizes the importance of being organized in the kitchen. She swears by the “mise en place” method—preparing and organizing all your ingredients before you start cooking. By having everything ready and measured, you’ll avoid the chaos and stress that can come with multitasking in the kitchen.
Surprise Yourself With a Good Scale
As a baking enthusiast, Babs understands the significance of precise measurements. “I love baking, but I think weighing your ingredients brings it up to a whole new level,” she says. Using a good scale will ensure accurate measurements, leading to consistent and delectable results. Babs has successfully converted skeptics with this game-changing kitchen tool.
Toast Nuts for Extra Savory Goodness
Sometimes, it’s the little things that elevate a recipe. Babs recommends toasting nuts to enhance their flavor and add richness to your dishes. With just a few minutes in the oven or on the stove, you can bring out the nutty aroma and depth of taste that will take your salads and baked goods to the next level. With Barbara Costello’s invaluable kitchen hacks, you can streamline your cooking process, impress your guests, and enjoy delightful dishes with ease. Follow Babs’s lead and make your time in the kitchen a joyous and rewarding experience!