One of my favorite things about social media, besides the unending stream of Taylor Swift content? Finding all the fun recipes to try. Whether I’m scrolling TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook, I’m bound to stumble upon some pretty great ideas, many of which I end up Googling. (I wish every influencer had to share their recipes in the caption, by law).
This year, the internet and pop culture brought us plenty of interesting recipes, and a few weird ones (I see you, Forbidden Glizzy). If you’re wondering what caused the most mouths to water, look no further than Google’s top trending recipe searches of 2023.
The Grimace Shake
If you’ve been on the internet in 2023, especially TikTok, then you’ve definitely heard of the McDonald’s Grimace Shake. Apparently, people wanted to commemorate the beloved character’s 53rd birthday at home, a feat that—according to my research—involves a lot of blueberries and sprinkles.
Lasagna Soup
What if you could enjoy all the things you love about lasagna—spiced ground beef, saucy tomatoes, and dollops of ricotta—with a spoon and a bowl? With lasagna soup, an even cozier rendition of this weeknight dinner favorite, you absolutely can (and should). A bonus: You can freeze the soup for later, as long as you prepare it without the noodles.
Chicken Cobbler
Call it a cobbler, a casserole, or, if you’re from Minnesota, a hot dish. No matter how you spin it, this TikTok-famous recipe is super easy to make (after all, it involves rotisserie chicken). After scrolling through the ingredients and steps, I’m not surprised chicken cobbler happened to become one of our most popular recipes this year!
Black Cake
This one, I hadn’t heard of, but I honestly wish I had. Black Cake, a Caribbean delicacy and holiday staple (and namesake of the new show on Hulu), combines basic cake ingredients with dried fruits, red sweet wine, and plenty of spices and citrus. The cake also includes two unique ingredients, burnt sugar and browning, which give it the signature black appearance (and name). I’m drooling!
Pumptini
Lest you (like me!) think this is a pumpkin martini: It’s actually a fruity cocktail commonly consumed by Lisa Vanderpump of the reality show, “Vanderpump Rules.” I’m not a martini person, but this summery cocktail looks refreshing and delicately sweet—it’s a mix of vodka, orange liqueur, grapefruit and lime juices, simple syrup, and raspberries.
Hugo Spritz
Another drink I apparently have to try, the Hugo Spritz is a sparkling cocktail best consumed al fresco (ideally, overlooking the mountains of Northern Italy, where it originated). All you’ll need to transport yourself somewhere fabulous are St-Germain liqueur, prosecco, soda water, mint, and lemon.
Cowboy Butter
Compound butter—or butter that’s been seasoned—has been having a moment, and for good reason. It’s savory, spreadable, accessible luxury. Cowboy Butter, which involves lemon juice, mustard, and literally all the spices and herbs is no exception, whether you make it dippable or for spreading.
Coronation Quiche
The official dish of the coronation of King Charles III, Coronation Quiche might sound fussy—but it’s actually as accessible as it is elegant. It’s admittedly an involved recipe, but the outcome? A shareable, adaptable dish sure to make your brunch guests feel like royalty.
Brazilian Lemonade
One of my all-time favorite summer treats is a frosted lemonade, which is basically just lemonade and ice cream. Brazilian Lemonade has the same vibe, but with limes and sweetened condensed milk. Add a shot of rum for a buzzy boost!
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Cottage cheese was everywhere in 2023—including in ice cream. You only need a few ingredients: cottage cheese, honey to sweeten it, and any add-ons for flavor. Then, you just blend and freeze the ingredients. If you’re a cottage cheese lover, this might be your new fave. If you’re not, this easy-to-make, TikTok-famous combo might still be worth a try—especially if you’re into DIY and you don’t have an ice cream maker on hand.