Chocolate-Hazelnut Treats

Photo: Davide Luciano

Proof That Everything Tastes Better with Nutella
Like bacon, Nutella seems to know no bounds (hello, Nutella banana bread). So is it any surprise that the chocolate-hazelnut spread can also work wonders on rice-cereal treats? The classic puffed-rice squares get a double dose of the stuff in this tasty recipe from the new book, Treat, by Stephanie Banyas. First, you stir some of the spread into the marshmallow-cereal mixture. Then, you top the treats with a melted combo of Nutella and milk chocolate chips. Sprinkle chopped, toasted hazelnuts on top for a crunchy garnish.

Get the recipe: Chocolate-Hazelnut Treats
Pan-Roasted Grape and Mascarpone Toast

Photo: Andrew Purcell

A Breakfast You Can Eat Whenever
Toast is something you can rely on at any time of day, especially if you view a grilled piece of bread as an edible plate that can be loaded with just about any food you're thinking of, from avocado to salt and hot sauce or, as this recipe instructs, pan-roasted grapes and creamy mascarpone cheese. When cooked, red grapes burst and turn into a jam of sorts, making a perfect complement to the rich cheese.

Get the recipe: Pan-Roasted Grape and Mascarpone Toast
Tangy Lemon Bars

Photo: Johnny Miller

The Bright, Sweet Bites That Deserve a Revival
Often overlooked for brownies and blondies, lemon bars are a delicious (and supereasy-to-make) treat worthy of our attention. The allure is in their contrast of zesty, pudding-like layers to firm crust. Great right out of the fridge or at room temperature, this unbeatable recipe is one you'll return to again and again.

Get the recipe: Tangy Lemon Bars
Chipotle Tomatillo Salsa and Avocado

Photo: Charles Masters

A Healthy Use for Leftover Salsa
If you've made Mexican food recently, you've probably got a container of some sort of chunky, spicy, tomato-based sauce in the fridge. Instead of dipping fried, salty chips into it, though, try this unexpected riff: Pour some salsa over a ripe avocado halve. Keep the peel on (it works as a bowl to keep the ingredients contained) and use a spoon to scoop up bites; the spicy salsa and the creamy avocado make a terrific pair.

Get the recipe: Chipotle Tomatillo Salsa and Avocado
Cat Cora's Party Mix

Photo: Lara Robby/Studio D

The Trail Mix with Not Just So-So Ingredients
You won't be picking through this party mix for the good stuff—because everything in it is delicious. It includes cereal (such as toasted oats or shredded wheat), pretzels and popcorn for a revised version of the classic snack, plus wasabi peas for a hot kick.

Get the recipe: Cat Cora's Party Mix
Frozen Chocolate-Peanut-Butter Banana Bites

Photo: Charles Masters

A Twist on Frozen Sandwiches
Spread peanut butter between slices of banana, drizzle the little stacks in rich, bittersweet chocolate then sprinkle them with chopped, roasted peanuts (or any other crunchy topper, such as puffed quinoa or crumbled gingersnaps). Then store these simple pick-me-ups in the freezer so they're ready for whenever dinner is just too many hours away.

Get the recipe: Frozen Chocolate-Peanut-Butter Banana Bites