Sure, your trusty blender can whip up a killer strawberry margarita or supercharged green smoothie, but what else? Probably the most under-appreciated kitchen appliance, your blender is actually capable of so much more. And while it may not be the easiest thing to clean, it’s only one thing verses a sinkful of bowls, measuring cups and spoons. Here are 16 recipes to get your blades moving.
1. Cream Cheese Wontons: Use pre-packaged wonton wrappers and a delicious filling made in the blender for this better-than-takeout bite. (via Eazy Peazy Mealz)
2. Dark Chocolate Pudding: What if we told you that this creamy chocolate pudding was actually good for you? Well, it is, and you can thank your BFF avocado for that. (via Two Peas and Their Pod)
3. Hollandaise Sauce: The star of eggs Benedict but just as delicious drizzled over steamed asparagus, hollandaise sauce is one of those things that can go wrong quickly when you’re making with a whisk. But in the blender? It’s a no-brainer. (via The Pioneer Woman)
4. Chunky Salsa: This salsa is so easy it’s almost a joke to think about buying that jarred stuff again. All you have to do is toss the delish ingredients into the blender, turn it on and enjoy. (via No. 2 Pencil)
5. Zucchini Bread: Grain-free, no added sugar, full of zucchini and absolutely delicious? You heard right. This five-minute recipe will have the whole family asking for more. (via Primally Inspired)
6. Almond Milk: While homemade almond milk only lasts about two days in the refrigerator, the creaminess and mellow flavor can’t be beat. Plus, it’s pretty fun to make. (via The Kitchn)
7. Butter: If you need a killer arm workout, churning butter by hand will do it. Looking for an easier way? Just pour two cups of heavy cream and a dash of salt in the blender and pulse for five minutes. (via Living Better Together)
8. Caramel Brownies: These special brownies have one secret (and nutritious) ingredient — black beans! (via Simple Roots Wellness)
9. Pots de Crème: Have a small party planned? You can make this chocolate confection the day before and actually enjoy the festivities instead of preparing dessert for everyone right after you finish eating dinner. (via The Blenderist)
10. Lemon Pie: Baking a pie can seem intimidating by nature, but when the filling only has five ingredients, you’ll have all the confidence in the world. (via Hip 2 Save)
11. Cookies + Cream Cookie Butter: A copycat of Trader Joe’s notorious cookies-and-cream cookie butter, this treat requires a whole lot of willpower to not indulge in. (via The Cookie Rookie)
12. Mayonnaise: Pure ingredients like olive oil and an egg act as a base for this recipe; that plain, store-bought mayo has nothing on this stuff. Experiment with different flavors and take your sandwiches to the next level. (via They Smell)
13. Muffins: One batter with endless topping combinations. With this recipe, there is no wrong way to make a muffin. (via Happy Healthy Mama)
14. Summer Sorbets: Have some now and freeze the rest for later. These frozen sorbets are refreshing and nothing short of satisfying on a hot afternoon. (via Happy Healthy Life)
15. Roasted Red Pepper Soup: There’s only one thing missing from this creamy soup: a killer grilled cheese sammy. (via Sarcasticook)
16. Crepes: More than just really thin pancakes, crepes are actually easier to make and go great with Nutella. Are you sold yet? (via Self Proclaimed Foodie)
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This article has been updated.