In the Kitchen With Brenda

When the weather turns cold and the days get shorter, the kitchen becomes the heart of the home more than ever. Winter is the season of simmering soups, warm casseroles, slow-cooked comfort foods, and those little rituals that make a house feel extra cozy.

To help you enjoy every moment — and make your winter cooking easier, warmer, and way more delicious — here are my Top 10 Winter Kitchen Tips. These are simple tricks I use all season long to stay organized, save time, and keep the cozy vibes flowing.

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1️⃣ Keep Your Soup Staples Stocked

Winter = soup season.
Keep basics on hand: potatoes, onions, broth, carrots, celery, garlic, and canned tomatoes.
You’ll be able to whip up a warm, comforting meal ANY night.

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2️⃣ Prep a Double Batch (Future You Will Cheer)

If you’re already chopping, stirring, or simmering… just double it.
Freeze half for a no-effort dinner later.
Your freezer becomes your winter best friend.

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3️⃣ Use Your Multi Cooker & Slow Cooker More

These appliances shine in colder months:

Set-it-and-forget-it soups

Melt-in-your-mouth meats

Oatmeal that cooks while you sleep

Warming and holding at the perfect temp

They make winter cooking feel effortless.

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4️⃣ Add Warm Spices to Daily Meals

Even simple dishes feel cozier with:

Smoked paprika

Nutmeg

Cinnamon

Rosemary

Thyme

Warm flavors = instant winter comfort.

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5️⃣ Bake Something Once a Week

Not for the treat (okay… maybe a little ), but for the warmth and the mood.
Muffins, bread, cookies, or a quick loaf makes the whole house smell incredible.

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6️⃣ Create a Cozy Drink Station

Hot cocoa, tea, cider, or coffee… whatever your vibe is, make it festive.
A few mugs, a jar of cocoa mix, a few toppings — suddenly your kitchen feels like a winter café.

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7️⃣ Keep Your Cutting Board & Tools Out

Winter cooking usually means LOTS of chopping.
Keep your favorite knife, cutting board, and prep bowls easily accessible so cooking never feels like a chore.

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8️⃣ Roast More Veggies

Winter veggies become magic in the oven — crispy, caramelized, sweet.
Try:

sweet potatoes

Brussels sprouts

carrots

cauliflower

Toss with oil + seasoning, roast at 425°F, and bask in the cozy goodness.

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9️⃣ Use Warm Serving Bowls

It sounds simple, but serving soup or stew in warm bowls makes the meal feel extra comforting.
Run them under hot water or warm them in the oven for a minute.

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 Light a Candle While You Cook

Instant mood lift.
Choose a scent like vanilla, cinnamon, or “warm apple” to make your kitchen feel like your own winter retreat.

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Final Thought: Winter Cooking Should Feel Good

This season is about slowing down, savoring simple meals, and creating warmth wherever you can.
Even one or two of these tips will make your winter kitchen feel cozier and your cooking feel easier.

If you try any of these, let me know your favorite — and stay tuned for more cozy recipes and kitchen tricks all season long. ❄️北✨