The Most Beloved Bites of 2017: A Culinary Countdown of Our Top 10 Recipes

As the curtains close on another remarkable year, we can’t help but marvel at how quickly time flies. It feels like just yesterday we were embarking on new culinary adventures, sharing fresh ideas, and exploring delicious flavors together. Now, as we reflect on the incredible journey that was 2017, it’s time to celebrate the dishes that truly captured your hearts and taste buds. This year-end review brings you a curated list of the recipes that resonated most with our community of home cooks, bakers, and food enthusiasts.

Over the past twelve months, our kitchen was a bustling hub of creativity, resulting in nearly 100 brand-new recipes published right here on the blog. From heartwarming comfort food to exquisite desserts and savory sensations, each creation was crafted with passion, dedication, and a sprinkle of culinary magic. Today, we’re thrilled to unveil the cream of the crop – the definitive list of the **Top 10 Most Popular Recipes of 2017**. These aren’t just any recipes; they are the crowd-pleasers, the viral hits, and the dishes that received the most love, shares, and rave reviews from our incredible readers. They represent the delicious trends and enduring classics that defined our culinary year. Get ready to revisit some old favorites, discover a new obsession, and perhaps plan your next cooking project as we count down the most cherished and visited culinary delights of the year!

Join us on this flavorful retrospective as we celebrate the best of the best, diving deep into what made these recipes absolute must-tries. From easy weeknight meals to impressive desserts, there’s a reason each of these dishes earned its place on our prestigious list. Let’s explore the tastes and textures that made 2017 so wonderfully delicious!

10. Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars: A Seasonal Sweet Treat

Kicking off our countdown at number ten are the ever-popular Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars. Imagine all the delightful flavors of a classic strawberry rhubarb pie, but reimagined in an incredibly easy-to-make, portable bar format. These bars perfectly capture the essence of spring and early summer with their vibrant, fruity filling. The sweet burst of ripe strawberries harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of fresh rhubarb, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. What makes these crumb bars truly irresistible is their textural contrast: a tender, juicy fruit filling encased in a buttery, rich crumb topping and crust that offers a satisfying crispness with every bite. They’re fantastic for picnics, potlucks, bake sales, or simply as a delightful afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea. Their simplicity in preparation, combined with their universally loved taste and appealing aesthetics, made them a standout favorite in 2017, proving that sometimes, the easiest desserts are the most delicious and sought-after. They offer a taste of nostalgia with a fresh, modern twist.

9. Pan-Fried Zucchini Chips: Your Go-To Summer Snack

Coming in at number nine, our Pan-Fried Zucchini Chips were an absolute sensation, especially during the peak of summer when gardens overflowed with fresh zucchini. This recipe quickly became a beloved method for transforming humble zucchini into a truly addictive, healthy, and versatile dish. Unlike heavier, greasy fried options, these chips are lightly pan-fried to achieve a beautiful golden crispness on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful on the inside. Seasoned simply with a touch of salt, pepper, and perhaps a sprinkle of garlic powder or Parmesan, they highlight the natural, delicate flavor of the zucchini without overwhelming it. Whether you’re looking for a delightful, light side dish to complement your main course, a guilt-free afternoon snack to curb those cravings, or even a quick and satisfying light lunch, these zucchini chips fit the bill perfectly. They offer a fantastic, healthier alternative to traditional potato chips and are incredibly easy to prepare in just minutes, making them a staple in many kitchens throughout 2017 and beyond. It’s clear why this simple yet brilliant idea resonated with so many health-conscious and flavor-seeking readers!

8. Princess Cake: A Royal Tribute in Every Slice

Holding the eighth spot is the exquisite Princess Cake, a truly regal dessert that holds a special place in our hearts and certainly captured the attention of our readers. This particular recipe was shared as a loving tribute to a cherished family member, adding a layer of sentimental value that undoubtedly resonated with many. Its widespread popularity attests to its timeless elegance, unique flavor profile, and absolutely divine taste. The Princess Cake is a masterpiece of confectionary art, distinguished by its delicate layers of light, airy sponge cake that provide the perfect, tender foundation. These layers are generously filled with a velvety smooth vanilla custard, offering a creamy, rich counterpoint, and bright, tangy raspberry jam, which adds a delightful burst of fruity tartness and vibrant color. The entire creation is then gracefully draped in a smooth, often vibrantly colored (traditionally green) marzipan coating, giving it its iconic, picture-perfect, and highly recognizable finish. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience – a sophisticated blend of textures and flavors that makes any occasion, from birthdays to anniversaries, feel truly special. Its unique construction and stunning presentation made it a highly sought-after recipe, perfect for celebrations or a truly memorable indulgence.

7. Challah Rolls: The Ultimate Comfort Bread for Any Table

Securing the seventh position are our irresistible Challah Rolls. These aren’t just any dinner rolls; they are a delightful and highly versatile twist on traditional challah bread, baked into charming, individual knots that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Renowned for their incredible softness, delicate, slightly chewy texture, and rich, subtly sweet, and super flavorful profile, these challah rolls bring a touch of elegance, warmth, and homemade goodness to any meal. The distinctive eggy dough yields an extraordinarily tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth, making them ideal for soaking up sauces, serving alongside a hearty stew, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Their versatility knows no bounds – they effortlessly elevate a simple weeknight dinner, shine as an essential part of a holiday feast, or make for a truly special and comforting sandwich bread. The process of braiding the dough into individual rolls is also incredibly therapeutic, and the intoxicating aroma filling your kitchen as they bake is absolutely divine. It’s no wonder these flavorful, perfectly portioned rolls became a runaway hit in 2017, proving that homemade bread, especially challah, is always a cherished and universally adored addition to any table.

6. Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas: A Taste of Home and Comfort

Landing squarely in the middle of our top 10 list, the Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas proved to be a heartwarming, consistently popular, and deeply satisfying dish throughout 2017. This isn’t just any enchilada recipe; it’s a culinary journey back to cherished childhood memories, faithfully recreated from a beloved family recipe that has stood the test of time. These enchiladas embody comfort food at its finest, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors, creamy indulgence, and a satisfyingly rich texture. Each soft tortilla is generously filled with tender, perfectly seasoned shredded chicken, then expertly rolled and smothered in a luscious, tangy sour cream sauce that creates an irresistible golden-brown, bubbly crust as it bakes. The addition of melty cheese, bubbling into gooey perfection, only adds to its widespread appeal and deliciousness. It’s the kind of substantial, flavorful meal that brings everyone happily to the table, eliciting smiles and satisfied sighs with every bite. Easy enough for a bustling weeknight yet impressive enough to serve to company, these chicken enchiladas are a testament to the enduring power of classic, home-cooked dishes. Their timeless appeal and delicious simplicity cemented their place as a top favorite in 2017 and continue to be a go-to for countless families seeking a truly satisfying meal.

5. Berry Poke Cake: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dessert

Breaking into the top five, our Berry Poke Cake truly stood out from the crowd and captured the vibrant spirit of summer. While poke cakes have been a popular dessert for decades, known for their moist texture and infused flavors, this particular recipe elevates the concept to an entirely new level by making it completely from scratch. Forget boxed mixes and artificial gelatin flavors; this berry poke cake celebrates the freshness and vibrancy of real, wholesome ingredients. A tender, incredibly moist vanilla cake is baked to golden perfection, then generously “poked” with holes to allow a sweet, homemade berry syrup (bursting with natural fruit essence) to seep into every crevice, infusing the cake with intense fruit flavor and vibrant color. The magic is completed with a luscious, light topping of real, freshly whipped cream and an abundance of fresh, ripe mixed berries, creating a dessert that is as visually stunning and appealing as it is deliciously wholesome. It’s a delightful choice for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress with a dessert that tastes genuinely homemade and bursts with natural fruitiness. Its refreshing taste, beautiful presentation, and wholesome appeal made it a firm favorite among our readers in 2017.

4. Oatmeal Chocolate Chunk Cookies: A Timeless Family Favorite

At number four, we have a true classic that never goes out of style and continues to be requested year after year: our incredibly popular Oatmeal Chocolate Chunk Cookies. These aren’t your average, run-of-the-mill cookies; they are generously sized, packed with wholesome, chewy oats, and studded with an abundance of rich, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chunks rather than smaller chips. This recipe has been a treasured family favorite for years, passed down and perfected, and its widespread appeal on the blog in 2017 speaks volumes about its irresistible charm and comforting nature. The combination of hearty, textural oatmeal and decadent, high-quality chocolate creates a harmonious texture and flavor profile that’s comforting, deeply satisfying, and utterly addictive. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rustic goodness and indulgent sweetness, with pockets of gooey melted chocolate. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven with a tall glass of cold milk, packed in lunchboxes for a special treat, or shared with friends and neighbors, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles and happiness. They embody the essence of homemade baking – simple, honest ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, deeply comforting, and truly memorable. It’s clear why this recipe continues to be a go-to for cookie lovers everywhere, providing pure joy in every delicious bite.

3. Mini Mushroom Tarts: The Elegant & Easy Appetizer Hit

As we approach the top three, our Mini Mushroom Tarts have proven to be an absolute showstopper and a consistent favorite, especially during the colder months, holiday entertaining season, and any time a sophisticated appetizer is needed. These elegant little bites truly encapsulate the art of effortless entertaining. Crafted with flaky, golden puff pastry as their perfect, buttery base, these tarts are filled with a savory mixture of earthy, sautéed mushrooms, sharp, nutty Parmesan cheese, and fragrant fresh rosemary. The combination of ingredients creates a sophisticated, umami-rich flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates and makes them irresistibly delicious. What makes them particularly popular and a beloved recipe is their remarkable simplicity – using readily available, store-bought puff pastry significantly cuts down on prep time, allowing you to create impressive, gourmet-looking appetizers without the fuss or extensive culinary skills. Perfect for dinner parties, festive gatherings, wine tastings, or even a sophisticated brunch, these mini tarts offer a luxurious gourmet experience in a convenient, two-bite package. Their irresistible aroma, savory depth, and appealing presentation made them a highly sought-after recipe in 2017, proving that sometimes, the simplest yet perfectly combined ingredients can create the most memorable and impressive culinary impressions.

2. Strawberry Skillet Pie: The Quintessential Summer Dessert

As we near the very top of our countdown, our Strawberry Skillet Pie earned its well-deserved second place, becoming a defining dessert of summer 2017 and a perennial favorite. This recipe is a vibrant celebration of seasonal simplicity and showcases the sheer delight of fresh, ripe strawberries in their prime. What makes this pie truly special, and incredibly popular among our readers, is its rustic charm, incredibly easy preparation directly in a cast-iron skillet, and irresistible flavor. Imagine sweet, juicy strawberries, lightly macerated with sugar and a hint of lemon, baked until bubbling and fragrant, nestled under a golden, buttery, and slightly crisp crust – all cooked to perfection in a single, versatile cast-iron skillet. This method not only simplifies the baking process by eliminating the need for pie plates but also adds a wonderful caramelized edge to the crust, enhancing its flavor and texture beautifully. It’s the kind of dessert that feels effortlessly elegant yet utterly comforting, perfect for casual family dinners, impromptu backyard BBQs, or a quiet evening on the porch. The pure, vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries shines through, making it an irresistible, light, and refreshing treat that our readers returned to time and again throughout the warmer months. A true testament to the beauty of seasonal ingredients and straightforward, delicious baking, this skillet pie truly captures the essence of summer.

1. Bourbon Butterscotch Cake: The Reigning Champion of 2017

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for! Drumroll please… The number one most popular recipe of 2017, the undisputed champion, is none other than our magnificent Bourbon Butterscotch Cake! This showstopping layer cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, a true masterpiece of flavors that captivated the hearts and palates of our entire community. Designed with whiskey enthusiasts and dessert connoisseurs in mind, this cake is a symphony of rich, complex, and utterly decadent flavors. Each moist, tender layer of bourbon-infused cake provides a warm, subtly boozy foundation, generously slathered with a luxurious, silky smooth bourbon butterscotch buttercream. This creates a deeply satisfying blend of warmth, sweetness, and sophistication that is absolutely irresistible. To elevate it further and ensure a truly indulgent experience, the entire cake is then artfully drizzled with even more homemade butterscotch, adding an extra layer of glistening indulgence and caramelized depth. The harmonious blend of robust bourbon and sweet, creamy, caramelized butterscotch creates an unparalleled depth of flavor that is both sophisticated and profoundly comforting. Perfect for special occasions, elegant holiday celebrations, or as the grand finale to an exquisite dinner, this Bourbon Butterscotch Cake proved to be an unforgettable culinary triumph, reigning supreme as our readers’ ultimate favorite in 2017. It’s a testament to bold flavors, masterful baking, and the art of crafting a truly memorable dessert, and we’re thrilled it resonated so strongly with you all!

And there you have it – a magnificent journey through the most celebrated recipes of 2017! This year’s top 10 list showcases an incredible diversity of flavors, from comforting classics and elegant desserts to innovative snacks and hearty mains. Each recipe, whether sweet or savory, has left an indelible mark on our community, inspiring countless home cooks to get into their kitchens and create something truly special. We are immensely grateful for your continued support, enthusiasm, and willingness to explore new culinary horizons with us. Your engagement, comments, and shares make these annual roundups so rewarding and truly reflect the pulse of what our readers love.

We hope this comprehensive recap has inspired you to revisit some of these beloved dishes or perhaps discover a new favorite to add to your repertoire. The joy of cooking, baking, and sharing delicious food is what drives us, and we look forward to many more years of culinary adventures together, bringing you even more innovative and mouth-watering recipes. Thank you for making 2017 such a wonderfully delicious and memorable year!

Explore More Culinary Journeys from Previous Years:

If you loved this look back at 2017’s best and are eager for more timeless inspiration, don’t miss our other popular recipe roundups. Dive into the archives and discover even more beloved favorites that have delighted our readers throughout the years:

• Top 10 Recipes of 2016: A Look Back at Last Year’s Favorites
• Top 10 Recipes of 2015: Discover More Beloved Dishes
• Top 10 Recipes of 2014: Culinary Highlights You Might Have Missed
• Most Popular Posts of 2013: A Collection of Enduring Classics
• 12 Favorite Recipes of 2012: Celebrating a Dozen Delights
• My Favorite Recipes of 2011: Personal Picks and Reader Favorites
• Favorites from 2010: The Very Best from Our Early Years