XMWare

2025-08-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – When you reach for a beverage, what drives your decision? Is it health benefits, taste or both? If you’re like many consumers, a drink that only quenches your thirst or satisfies your sweet tooth isn’t enough. That’s why functional beverages and drinks that deliver great taste are on the rise.

Drinks that help your body function

While the name may not be familiar, you’ve probably seen or even tried functional beverages. These drinks offer health benefits like improved hydration, digestion and nutrition with functional ingredients like vitamins, minerals and probiotics. For example, PLEZi Nutrition, the public benefit company founded by former first lady Michelle Obama, focuses on creating beverages with vitamin C, fiber and potassium to provide nutrients your body needs but may not otherwise get enough of.

Consumer demand for functional drinks continues to grow. According to Zion Market Research, the functional beverage market was valued at $175.5 billion in 2022 and is predicted to grow at a compound annual rate of 8.6% through 2030, eventually reaching $339.6 billion.

One group that is leading the functional beverage trend is sports drinks. According to Innova Market Insights, sports drinks account for about two-thirds of functional beverage launches in the U.S. These sports drinks are designed to support performance, muscle recovery and electrolyte balance.

That said, sports drinks can have a lot of sugar, specifically added sugar. Added sugars are those added during food and drink processing, and do not include naturally occurring sugars found in milk, fruits and vegetables. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), consuming too many added sugars can contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other health problems.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting calories from added sugars to less than 10% of total calories per day. So, if you consume 2,000 per day, you should aim to eat or drink less than 200 calories or 50 grams of added sugars per day.

This presents a problem, though: According to the same dietary guidelines, a 12-ounce serving of a sports drink has 97 calories or 20 grams of added sugar, representing over 40% of the recommended daily added sugars intake.

Many consumers are realizing the negative impacts of too many added sugars and want beverages that help them reduce their average intake. As a result, many companies are now creating functional sports drinks without as much added sugar.

This past year, PLEZi Nutrition launched PLEZi Hydration, which has no added sugar* and half the sugar of the leading sports drink.* Co-created with four-time NBA Champion, Stephen Curry, and culinary entrepreneur, Ayesha Curry, the sports drink stands out among the competition because it also offers nutritional ingredients — twice the electrolytes and seven times the potassium compared to leading regular sports drinks,** and vitamin C for immune health and muscle repair.

It’s not surprising that the Currys have partnered with PLEZi. Many of the couple’s endeavors, including their work through their Eat.Learn.Play Foundation, centers on supporting underserved communities through access to healthy foods, movement and sport. PLEZi’s own nutritional standards are overseen by their Kitchen Cabinet, the company’s board of advisors in key areas like nutrition and public health.

This is just one example of how beverage brands are not only listening to consumers’ desire to reduce sugar intake but are also moving toward better-for-you and functional ingredients.

A taste that doesn’t compromise

Even with better nutritional value, functional beverages are nothing without flavor — and consumers agree.

According to a beverage flavor trends report from Innova, the demand for innovative beverage flavors is on the rise, with consumers increasingly favoring exciting and functional drinks that deliver on taste without compromising health goals.

More specifically, consumers want a taste rooted in nature. Another Innova report found that a quarter of consumers are prioritizing natural flavors made from real ingredients. This finding marks a shift toward cleaner formulations that reduce sugar while preserving sweetness, meeting demand for natural and familiar sweet solutions.

Creating a beverage that tastes good and is good for you sounds like a tall order, but it is possible. This is where brands like PLEZi can fill the gap. With no artificial colors, dyes or sweeteners and less sugar**, the company’s Hydration drink — as well as its healthier soda alternative PLEZi FiZZ*** — delivers bold flavors to meet consumers’ tastes while also delivering on wellness demands.

The future of function and flavor is one and the same. As consumers demand drinks that work as hard as they do, beverage companies have a prime opportunity to not only meet but exceed expectations with creativity and health in mind.

*Not a low-calorie food. See nutrition panel for information on sugar and calorie content.

**Per 16.9 ounces: PLEZi Hydration – 120 milligrams (Sodium), 500 milligrams (Potassium), 12 grams (Sugar). Leading regular sports drink – 230 milligrams (Sodium), 70 milligrams (Potassium), 28 grams (Sugar)

***PLEZi FiZZ has 75% less sugar than the leading regular soft drinks. Contains 10 grams of sugars from fruit juices per 12 ounces versus 40 grams of sugar per 12 ounces for leading regular soft drinks.

2025-08-28T08:05:00

(BPT) – If your baby is born prematurely, you’re suddenly navigating a world of specialized care, unfamiliar terms, and important decisions. But there’s good news. One of the most significant advances in preemie care over the past 19 years is how these babies are fed — and it’s making a measurable difference in their health outcomes.

For premature babies born weighing less than 2.75 pounds, nutrition plays a critical role in their growth and development. These preterm newborns need more calories and protein than breastmilk alone can provide. That’s why hospitals add something called a “fortifier” to breastmilk to provide the extra nutrition needed to support healthy growth.

What many parents don’t realize is that not all fortifiers are the same.

Not All Fortifiers Are Truly Breastmilk-Based

In the U.S., every product labeled “human milk fortifier” is made from cow milk — except one. A company called Prolacta Bioscience offers the only fortifier made from 100% breastmilk, free from cow milk.

This difference matters. Fortifiers made from 100% breastmilk are designed specifically for premature babies and are being used in NICUs across the country to support better outcomes, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays.

When used as part of an exclusive breastmilk diet, these fortifiers and formulas are:

• Clinically proven to reduce the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a life-threatening intestinal disease
• Associated with fewer complications like lung and eye disease
• Shown to improve growth and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes
• Trusted by NICUs across the country for feeding over 125,000 patients since 2006
• Used in more than 55% of U.S. NICUs in 2025 for the smallest, most vulnerable preemies

What Parents Can Do

If your baby is born weighing less than 2.75 pounds and is in the NICU, be a strong advocate for your baby’s care. Here are a few ways to stay informed and involved:

• Understand that early nutrition choices can affect your baby’s immediate and long-term growth and development
• Tell your NICU care team you only want your baby to receive 100% breastmilk, including Prolacta’s fortifiers made from 100% breastmilk, not cow milk products (be aware that most products labeled “human milk fortifier” are actually made from cow milk)
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request more information

Every Drop Counts

Premature babies need extra nutritional support to grow. Parents who understand their options are better equipped to make informed choices alongside their baby’s care team.

If you have questions about NICU nutrition or want to learn more about breastmilk-based fortifiers, you can speak with a member of Prolacta’s Parent Support team at 1.888.413.9885 or visit the parent education page.

Understanding your options can help you feel more confident, more informed, and more empowered — even during one of the most challenging times in your parenting journey.

2025-08-26T09:15:00

(BPT) – The back-to-school season brings major transitions that can make daily meal prep feel overwhelming. With tighter schedules, busier days and bigger appetites, there’s often little time left for planning or preparing elaborate meals and snacks. The good news? With a few smart strategies and convenient options, you can still serve up satisfying, comforting and easy-to-make meals and snacks to keep the whole family fueled during this busy time of year.

Follow these tips and recipes to make settling into your new routine easier and more enjoyable.

Freeze ahead (and make the most of weekend prep)

Use weekends to get ahead for the week and beyond. Prepare double batches of family favorites that freeze well — think casseroles, chili, soups or stews. Be sure to let the food cool completely before freezing. For convenience, portion meals into single servings using freezer-friendly bags or containers, then label and date each one. While you’re in the kitchen, prep a few versatile basics like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables or chopped fruit that can be used in a variety of meals throughout the week. With both freezer staples and fresh prepped ingredients on hand, you’ll simplify weekday meals and cut down on stress.

Choose snacks that make busy days easier

Busy days call for snacks that are quick, satisfying and kid-approved. Bob Evans Single-Serve Macaroni & Cheese and Mashed Potatoes are the perfect solution for after-school cravings or a quick bite between activities. Ready in minutes with no prep or clean-up, these single-serve cups bring ultimate comfort in a convenient snackable size.

Fuel up with breakfast

Starting the day with a wholesome breakfast helps kids (and parents) stay energized and focused through the morning rush. Bob Evans Liquid Egg Whites offer a quick and protein-rich option — just pour and cook for fluffy scrambles, omelets or muffin cups. With no separating or mess, they make it easy to whip up a balanced breakfast even on hectic school mornings.

Meals that fit your schedule

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew after school or looking for a quick meal everyone will enjoy, these simple, satisfying recipes are perfect for busy schedules and big appetites.

Greek Muffin Egg Cups

A versatile and protein-rich breakfast recipe that will nourish the whole family.

Prep time: 20 minutes; cook time: 20 minutes; servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Bob Evans Liquid Egg Whites
• 1/2 cup 2% small curd cottage cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
• 4-ounce container crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300° F.
2. Blend egg whites, cottage cheese, salt, pepper and garlic powder in blender until smooth.
3. Divide tomatoes, goat cheese and basil among 12 lightly greased muffin cups.
4. Pour egg white mixture over tomato mixture.
5. Bake 20-25 minutes or until centers are set.
6. Let cool 10 minutes before removing from pan and enjoy! Garnish with additional crumbled goat cheese and fresh basil leaves (optional).

Spicy Hot Dog Macaroni & Cheese

A fun and easy dish combining two kid favorites for a quick and tasty meal.

Prep time: 15 minutes; cook time: 30 minutes; servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 all-beef hot dogs
• 12 ounces Bob Evans Single-Serve Macaroni & Cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeno peppers
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 1/2 cups kettle-cooked potato chips, lightly crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill hot dogs 4-5 minutes per side or until grill marks appear. Slice.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400° F.
4. Microwave macaroni and cheese according to package directions.
5. Spoon into large bowl.
6. Stir in shredded cheese, onions, peppers, chili powder, cumin and hot dogs.
7. Spoon mixture into 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
8. Sprinkle with crushed chips.
9. Bake 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
10. Cool and enjoy!

Mashed Potato Pizzas

A creative and comforting twist on pizza that will make mealtime fun and delicious for the whole family.

Prep time: 20 minutes; cook time: 45 minutes; servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 4 pita bread rounds
• 12 ounces Bob Evans Single-Serve Original Mashed Potatoes
• 12 ounces broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion; cover and cook 15 minutes or until tender.
3. Uncover and increase heat to medium-high.
4. Cook, stirring constantly, until onions are golden brown. Stir in vinegar.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crisp; drain on paper towels.
6. Preheat oven to 400° F.
7. Microwave mashed potatoes according to package directions.
8. Spread over pita rounds and place on large, rimmed baking sheet.
9. Divide caramelized onions, broccoli, bacon and cheese over mashed potatoes.
10. Bake 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and pitas are golden. Enjoy!

Visit BobEvansGrocery.com to discover more back-to-school recipe inspiration.

2025-08-25T09:01:00

(BPT) – The median emergency savings for Americans is $500, according to new Empower research. The size of the safety net varies by generation, with Boomers saving a median of $2,000 — five times that of Gen Z’s reserves of $400. One-third of Americans (32%) don’t have an emergency savings fund and 29% say they can’t afford an unexpected expense over $400.

Half of Americans admit they’re stressed about their current level of emergency savings (50%) and recognize the importance of a safety net. Some 75% of Americans agree emergency savings are essential for financial security and 64% say it’s a financial priority for them.

Emergency savings are top of mind — and a moving target

The majority of Americans (64%) say growing their emergency savings is a financial priority right now — even if they’re still finding their financial footing. So where do things stand?

The median emergency savings balance for Americans:

• Overall: $500
• Gen Z: $400
• Millennials: $300
• Gen X: $500
• Boomers: $2,000

A third (30%) do not believe they could handle unexpected expenses that could arise in the year ahead. Close to 1 in 5 Americans say their savings would cover less than a month of expenses (18%).

The majority (63%) say the rising cost of living has made it harder to build or maintain emergency savings, and 35% say the economy and tariffs have caused them to increase their contributions. More than half (58%) say saving for emergencies feels “almost impossible” with how expensive everything is right now.

In the past year, many have faced unplanned financial events including:

• Car repairs (26%)
• Medical bills (24%)
• Home repairs (19%)
• Job loss or income reduction (14%)
• Pet emergency (11%)

Nearly two-thirds (64%) of Americans say emergency savings are a financial priority for them in 2025. Some 17% contribute to their fund monthly as part of their budget, and 31% say they’ve added to their savings in the past month.

Stress meets strategy

Most take a “better safe than sorry” approach to emergency savings and want to put away as much as possible (39%), with half (52%) wishing they had started saving sooner. Close to 1 in 5 are more modest, saving up “just enough to sleep at night” (17%), while 13% are opportunity cost conscious — they balance emergency savings with other investments.

But the study reveals awareness and momentum: Nearly half (48%) believe their emergency savings will grow over the next year:

• 20% add to their fund sporadically when they have extra money
• 12% have set up automatic monthly contributions

What gets in the way?

Nearly a quarter (23%) say they maintain the same emergency savings approach regardless of economic conditions, though Americans cite several common roadblocks to saving for a rainy day:

• 39% say inflation and rising prices are the top barrier
• 35% point to high monthly expenses
• 32% say their income is too low or irregular
• 22% prioritize paying off debt first

Close to half (46%) say their emergency savings account has less money compared to a year ago and more than 2 in 5 (42%) say their savings wouldn’t help them if they lost their job today. Some 40% say they can count on their family to help if something goes wrong financially.

Where do Americans keep their safety nets?

Around 37% of Americans store their emergency saving fund in a regular savings account. A quarter use a checking account (23%). Nearly 1 in 5 keep emergency cash at home (19%) — a figure that rises to 27% among Gen Z.

Only 16% have set a specific goal of saving six months of expenses. But the lack of a precise number isn’t stopping people from trying. In fact, 41% don’t have a target at all — but they’re putting away money as they go.

Generational check-in

• Gen Z: 25% say they don’t have emergency savings yet, but a notable 33% have worked with a financial professional to help them get started.
• Millennials: Nearly 3 in 10 have consulted an advisor about emergency savings, and they’re increasingly focused on building long-term security.
• Gen X: The most likely generation to say they couldn’t afford an unexpected $400 expense (35%).
• Boomers: Feel they could handle an emergency expense over $10,000.

A roadmap for resilience

When asked what would make the biggest difference in their ability to save more, respondents pointed to:

• Higher income (48%)
• Lower monthly expenses (37%)
• Lower inflation or more stable prices (36%)
• Ability to pay off debt first (27%)
• Better tools and smarter automation (9%)

Safety net snapshot

Americans are expecting the unexpected, and many are seeking advice: More than 1 in 4 people (26%) have worked with a financial professional to plan for emergencies, including 33% of Gen Zers and 29% of Millennials.

Methodology:

Empower’s “The Safety Net” study is based on online survey responses from 2,202 Americans ages 18+ fielded by a third-party panel provider from June 3-5, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.

RO4715749-0825

2025-08-22T12:01:00

(BPT) – Ever wonder what kind of food Superman grew up on? Wonder no more. Continuing a Kent Family tradition, Martha has put together an heirloom cookbook full of Clark’s favorite dishes, with help from his friends and colleagues. Together, they’ve recreated the beef bourguignon and ketchup from Lois and Clark’s first date, Cyborg’s lucky game day potato skins and J’onn’s Chocos. Martha even recreated Plurb, which she hears is wonderfully awful. She wasn’t quite ready to taste that one herself.

In “Superman: The Official Cookbook: Recipes from Smallville to the Hall of Justice and Beyond” you’ll be fully steeped in DC Comics lore courtesy of the authors, comics writer Jermaine McLaughlin and recipe developer and food stylist Elena Craig.

Each chapter revisits iconic moments in Superman’s life, sorted by various places he’s called home: from Smallville and Metropolis to the Hall of Justice and the Fortress of Solitude. The recipes are appropriate for every skill level, with step-by-step instructions, accessible ingredients and deliciously vivid food photography, making this book ideal for home cooks of all stripes.

From custom cover artwork to gorgeous food photography and fun tidbits about your favorite characters, this cookbook was crafted with fans at its heart.

Want a sneak peek? Here are three recipes to bring out the superhero in every home cook.

Argo City Salad
Yield: 6 servings

Martha says: “I designed this family-style salad for you to share with your cousin, Kara, whenever she visits. Kryptonian meals are hard to replicate on Earth, but tend to be nutrient-packed for efficiency, and Kara’s assured me this salad does a nice job of reminding her of life in Argo City.”

Salad:
2 cups sugar snap peas
1 English cucumber
4 small rainbow carrots, scrubbed
5 green onions
1 cup Sungold tomatoes, halved
1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained, aquafaba reserved
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1 tablespoon lime juice
6 cups mixed salad greens
2 blood oranges, sliced, peeled and pithed

Dressing:
1 cup aquafaba
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper

Special tools:
Blender
Large platter

To make the salad: Trim the ends of the snap peas, cut them into 1/2-inch pieces, and add them to a large bowl. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds, and slice on an angle. Add to the bowl. Thinly slice the carrots and the white and light green parts of the green onion and add them to the bowl. Add tomatoes and drained chickpeas. Add the avocado and lime juice and stir gently to mix. Set aside.

To make the dressing: Add the aquafaba, lime juice, salt, garlic powder and onion powder to the pitcher of a blender. Run the blender on high speed until the mixture is thick, opaque, and has almost doubled in size, 1-2 minutes. Stop the blender and add the avocado and apple cider vinegar. Run the blender on high again until the mixture is completely smooth. With the blender on medium-low, slowly add oil through the hole in the lid until incorporated. Taste, add black pepper, and adjust seasoning as desired.

To assemble the salad: Arrange the salad greens on a large platter. Place the mixed vegetables down the center of the platter. Scatter the orange rounds over the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and serve with the rest of the dressing on the side. Leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Black and White Tea Sandwiches
Yield: 18 sandwiches

Apparently, this dish helped welcome Damian Wayne into the family. Alfred insists these black and white tea sandwiches helped convince Damian to put down his sword and indulge in some friendly conversation.

Cucumber Sandwiches:
1/2 English cucumber
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon finely snipped chives
1/2 cup cream cheese spread
6 slices dark rye or black bread

Chocolate Orange Sandwiches:
1/3 cup chocolate hazelnut spread or favorite chocolate spread, divided
6 slices white bread
2 tablespoons orange marmalade, divided

Special tools:
Box grater
Fine-mesh strainer
1 1/2-by-4-inch bat-shaped cookie cutter
Paring knife
2-inch round cookie cutter

To make the cucumber sandwiches: Peel the cucumber, slice it in half lengthwise, and use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds. Using the largest hole on a box grater, shred cucumber into a medium bowl and then combine it with the salt. Transfer cucumber to a fine-mesh strainer placed over the bowl, weight it down with a bowl or plate, and leave it to drain for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, give the cucumber a press with your hands to release any remaining liquid, discard the liquid, and add the cucumber back to the bowl. Add the chives and cream cheese to the bowl and mix until thoroughly combined.

Divide the mixture among 3 slices of the bread, then top each with the remaining slices. Use the cookie cutter to cut three bats out of each sandwich. With an intricate shape like the bat, a small paring knife is helpful to complete the cuts. Arrange on a plate loosely covered with paper towel and refrigerate while making the chocolate sandwiches.

To make the chocolate sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of chocolate spread on each piece of bread, about 1 tablespoon for each slice. Spread a thin layer of orange marmalade on half of the bread pieces, about 1 1/2 teaspoons each. Top with the other bread slices and use circle cookie cutter to cut 3 circles from each sandwich.

Daily Cream Donuts
Yield: 10 donuts

It’s not often that a newspaper gets its own signature donut. When the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce held an open competition to find the best Daily Planet–themed dessert, this dish won in a landslide.

Pastry cream filling:
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 egg yolks
1 1/4 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste

Dough:
3/4 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 1/2 teaspoons quick-rise yeast
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla paste
2 quarts canola or peanut oil for brushing and deep-frying

Chocolate glaze:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup bittersweet chocolate chips, melted
4-6 tablespoons hot water, plus more as needed

Vanilla glaze:
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 tablespoons hot water, plus more as needed

Special tools:
Hand mixer
Instant-read thermometer
Stand mixer with paddle attachment
3-inch round biscuit cutter
Deep fryer or Dutch oven
Deep-frying thermometer
Pastry bag fitted with a large writing tip

To make the pastry cream filling: Add the granulated sugar, flour, cornstarch and egg yolks to a large bowl. Whisk with hand mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 2 minutes. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring milk to a simmer. Slowly pour about one-third of the milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return the egg mixture to the remaining milk in the pan and continue cooking over medium-low heat, whisking and scraping the bottom and edges of the pot to prevent burning. Once the mixture starts to bubble, cook about 1 minute more until it thickens noticeably. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla paste. Transfer to an airtight container, pressing a piece of wax or parchment paper onto the surface and refrigerate until needed. The pastry cream must be completely chilled before filling the donuts.

To make the dough: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and butter and heat, stirring, until butter has melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 125F on a thermometer). Remove from the heat.

Fit stand mixer with the paddle attachment. In the mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, salt and yeast and beat on low speed to mix. Add the hot milk mixture, increase speed to medium, and beat until well blended. Add the eggs and vanilla paste and beat until fully incorporated, about 2 minutes. Add the remaining 3/4 cup flour and beat until the dough is well blended and smooth, about 1 minute longer. The dough will not pull away from the sides of the bowl and will still be somewhat sticky.

Line a baking sheet with wax paper and brush the paper with oil. Fit a second baking sheet with a wire rack or line it with paper towels. On a generously floured work surface, roll out the dough into a circle 10 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Using a 3-inch round biscuit cutter, cut out as many donuts as possible. Transfer the donuts to the oiled paper. Gather up the donut scraps and repeat rolling and cutting. Cover donuts with a clean kitchen towel and let rise until soft and puffy, about 30 minutes.

Pour oil to a depth of 2 inches into a deep fryer or Dutch oven and warm over medium-high heat until it reads between 320 and 325F on a deep-frying thermometer. Carefully lower 1 or 2 donuts into the hot oil and fry until dark golden, about 1 1/2 minutes. Turn donuts over and fry until dark golden on the second side, about 1 minute longer. Transfer to the wire rack baking sheet. Repeat to fry the remaining donuts, allowing the oil to return to between 320 and 325F between batches.

Once the donuts are cool, fill a pastry bag, fitted with large writing tip, with the pastry cream. Use a chopstick to poke a hole in the side of each donut, sticking it in about halfway across. Fill each well with pastry cream until you see the center puff slightly.

To make the chocolate glaze: Combine the butter, powdered sugar and melted chocolate in a medium bowl, whisking until combined. Add hot water until you have a glaze that is still thick but ribbons off the spoon. Glaze each donut by dipping the top into the glaze and letting the excess drip back into the bowl. Set on a baking sheet. When all the donuts have been glazed, let them set up for 10 minutes before moving on to the vanilla glaze.

To make the vanilla glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the butter, powdered sugar and vanilla. Add the hot water until you have a glaze that is still thick but ribbons off the spoon. Place the vanilla glaze into a squeeze bottle with a fine tip or a pastry bag fitted with a small writing tip. Pipe the globe grid onto each donut. Allow to set for 10 minutes before serving.

The donuts are best served day of, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Time to get cooking! From Jimmy Olsen’s go-to food truck gyro wrap to Oliver Queen’s spicy chili, not to mention Martha’s own award-winning apple pie, these meals combine one-of-a-kind design with comfort-food flavors so you’ll feel at home, wherever you might hang your cape.

Check out all the super recipes in the new “Superman: The Official Cookbook,” now available on Amazon.com.

2025-08-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – With back-to-school season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to focus on your children’s health. Appointments for check-ups, immunizations and sports physicals can fill up quickly this time of year, but scheduling now can help you stay ahead of the classroom illnesses and avoid last-minute scrambles down the road.

Prioritizing prevention

It’s easy to let preventive care slide when life gets busy. But taking care of your child’s health now can mean fewer worries later. You’ll reduce their chance of missing out on activities, and most importantly, help ensure your child is protected against preventable illness.

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to help protect your children from serious diseases like measles, meningitis, whooping cough and other diseases that can disrupt daily life and, in some cases, even cause long-term harm.

Following the CDC’s recommended vaccination schedule can help protect your child against infectious diseases through all stages of growth, from early childhood through the teenage years.

Talk to your doctor

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your family doctor, pediatrician or a local pharmacist. Talking with a trusted healthcare provider can help you understand which vaccines are recommended, when kids should receive them and answer any questions you may have. You and your family should feel comfortable and supported when asking questions and exploring options.

“Staying on track with vaccines and other preventive care can help avoid unexpected absences from school due to illness, which is something every busy family can appreciate,” said Dr. Luis Romano, MD, Pediatrician and Senior Medical Director, GSK. “That’s why it’s so important to get ahead of it by talking to your doctor or trusted healthcare provider and getting the information you need to make the best care decision for your family.”

From homework to sports and extracurriculars, healthy kids are better prepared to thrive both in and out of class. Don’t let preventative care fall to the bottom of the to-do list this back-to-school season.