Staff Writer
Allie has been Lifehacker’s Food Writer since 2021. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Ithaca College in drama and studied at the Institute of Culinary Education to earn her diploma in Pastry and Baking Arts. Allie worked professionally as a private chef for over a decade, honing her craft in New York at places like Balthazar, Bien Cuit, The Chocolate Room, Billy’s Bakery, and Whole Foods. She spent evenings as a chef instructor, and also earned a master’s degree at Hunter College for teaching English. Allie’s YouTube channel, Thainybites, features recipes and baking tricks. She lives in Brooklyn, NY.
MORE BY Allie
It's OK to Make Ramen With Spaghetti, Actually (and How to Do It)
Forget the haters, when you can't get fresh ramen noodz, make your own.
We Should Be Eating More Savory Cookies
This means more than just sprinkling flaky salt on top.
The Easy Way to Roll Your Dough Into the Shape You Actually Need
Cut down on wasted dough trimmings by shaping before you start rolling.
The Crucial Step You're Missing With Fruit Pie
You shouldn’t have to put your pie in the oven and worry it’ll be fruit soup when you take it out.
How to Roll Out Pie Dough Without Ruining It
Get the perfect roll-out the first time—without all the sticking, cracking, and tearing.
Your Baking Needs More Jam, Actually
Jam has been the ride or die in your fridge this whole time.
How to Bake With More Booze, 'Cause Life Is Short
There's a world of untapped flavors in your bar cart.
Kick Off St. Patrick's Day With a Guinness Dutch Baby
Skip the extra step. Just pour the stout straight into your breakfast.
Khai Jiao Is the Best Way to Use Leftover Mung Bean Sprouts
Don't let the last bit go soggy in the bag—try this "Thai omelet" instead.
Three of the Most Decadent Single-Serving Dessert Recipes
All of these desserts are the perfect way to say "I love me."
Three Ways to Make Pigs in a Blanket, Already Perfect, Even Better
Tuck your little piggies into a different blanket.
Jackfruit Is Way More Than a Meat Alternative
This fabulous fruit should live outside the shadow of "vegan meat replacement."
This Savory Loaf Is the Ultimate Make-Ahead Breakfast
When you want it all for breakfast, don't settle for less.
How to Line a Tart Shell Without Poking Holes in It
Sometimes your greatest enemy is at the end of your fingertips.
What to Use If You Run Out of Cornmeal When You’re Baking Bread
If you're out of cornmeal to coat the base of your loaf, try these unusual—but effective—replacements.
How to Make Healthier Desserts That Don't Completely Suck
Eating healthier shouldn't make you sad inside; try these tasty options instead.
Turn Your Leftover Holiday Cheeseball Into Gooey Mac & Cheese
Your favorite appetizer has a second life ahead to look forward to.
The Best Cream Cheese Substitutions for Your Holiday Recipes During the Shortage
We've got some better-than-OK substitutes for our nation's most-missed dairy product.