Make the Most of Your Weekend with Banana Pudding, A Fun Frame Makeover, and a Cozy Reading Nook

I’m gearing up for a cozy weekend at home. The weather forecast promises chilly temperatures in the 20s, and the cloudy skies offer the perfect opportunity to tackle some fun indoor projects. On the agenda, I’ll be whipping up a delicious banana pudding, giving some picture frames a fun & colorful makeover, and finally, I’ll transform an ordinary corner of our home into a cozy reading nook. Continue reading to get inspired ✨

Indulge in a Classic: Banana Pudding

If you’re a fan of classic desserts, then you’ve probably heard of the famed Magnolia Bakery and its signature banana pudding. This recipe only has 5 ingredients and only takes about 20 minutes to whip up. ***Just to give you a heads up, this does need to set for about 4-6 hours before eating so plan accordingly!

Ingredients

One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

1 1/2 cups (360 grams/12.7 ounces) ice-cold water 

One 3.4-ounce package instant vanilla pudding mix (preferably Jell-O brand) 

3 cups (720 grams/25.5 ounces) heavy cream 

One 11-ounce box Nilla wafers 

4 to 5 ripe bananas, sliced 

Make It

1. In a stand mixer with the whisk, beat the condensed milk and water on medium speed until well combined, about 1 minute. Add the pudding mix and beat until there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl, cover and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. In a stand mixer with the whisk, whip the heavy cream on medium speed for about 1 minute, until the cream starts to thicken, then increase the speed to medium-high and whip until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip. 
3. With the mixer running on low speed, add the pudding mixture a spoonful at a time. Mix until well blended and no streaks of pudding remain. 
4. To assemble, select a trifle bowl or a wide glass bowl with a 4- to 5-quart capacity, or individual serving bowls. 
5. Saving 4 to 5 cookies for the garnish on top, begin assembly. Spread one-quarter of the pudding over the bottom and layer with one-third of the cookies and one-third of the sliced bananas (enough to cover the layer). Repeat the layering twice more. End with a final layer of pudding. Garnish the top with additional cookies or cookie crumbs. 
6. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours. Cookies should be tender when poked with a knife. This dessert is best served within 12 hours of assembling. 

Yields 12-16 Servings

This recipe is from “The Magnolia Bakery Handbook: A Complete Guide for the Home Baker” by Bobbie Lloyd

Picture Frame Makeover

Elevate your home decor with a weekend project that blends creativity and charm. In this makeover, I’ll be transforming a simple picture frame into a personalized masterpiece using wooden bobbin embellishments and a palette of vibrant acrylic paints. The result? A unique piece that not only showcases your artistic flair but also adds a distinct touch of character to your living space.

Materials Needed:

1. Picture Frame: Choose a frame with a smooth surface for easy painting.
2. Wooden Bobbin Embellishments: Select wooden bobbins – I used the 1.5cm size.
3. Acrylic Paints: Choose a color palette that complements your home decor.
4. Paintbrushes: Small and medium-sized brushes for detailed work and broader strokes.
5. Craft Glue: Ensure it’s suitable for wood and dries clear.
6. Drop Cloth or Newspaper: To protect your work surface.

How to make it:

1. Gather your materials: a wooden picture frame, wooden bobbin embellishments, acrylic paints in your chosen colors, paintbrushes, and a protective work surface.
2. Prepare your workspace by covering your work surface with newspapers or a drop cloth.
3. Use a soft cloth to clean the picture frame and remove any dust or debris.
4. Paint the frame with your chosen acrylic paint, using a brush or roller to apply an even coat. Allow the paint to dry completely.
5. Once the frame is dry, arrange the wooden bobbin embellishments on the frame in a pattern or design that you like.
6. Use craft glue to attach the embellishments to the frame.
7. Paint the bobbin embellishments to match or complement the frame.
8. Allow the glue to dry completely, then hang your finished frame and admire your handiwork!

Create a cozy reading nook

Creating a cozy reading nook is all about making a comfortable and inviting space that encourages you to curl up with a good book and escape into another world. To achieve this, start by choosing a location in your home that is quiet and peaceful, away from distractions and noise. A spare bedroom or a quiet corner of the living room can be a great option.

After choosing your ideal location, it’s time to get creative with what you already have. Take a look around your home and see which pieces can be repurposed to create your reading nook. An old armchair or sofa can be refreshed with a slipcover or decorative pillows, while a bookshelf or storage cabinet from your home office can be used to store your reading materials. Add a floor or table lamp from another room to provide cozy lighting.

If you don’t have much to start with and want to keep expenses low, visit your local thrift store. I recently stumbled upon a beautiful green chair that would be perfect for a reading nook, and it only cost $20.49! With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can create a cozy reading space without breaking the bank.

To add warmth and texture to your reading nook, consider using area rugs or throw blankets from other rooms. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and colors to create a unique and personalized space. You can also add personal touches by hanging artwork or photos from around your home.

Finally, if your reading nook is located in a larger room, you may want to consider using a folding screen or room divider to create a sense of enclosure and privacy. This can help you feel more relaxed and focused on your reading.

By repurposing items you already own and getting creative with your space, you can create a cozy and inviting reading nook that is uniquely yours. So, grab your favorite book, a cozy blanket, and a cup of tea, and settle in for a good read!

I hope you all have an amazing weekend!

xo Chrissy