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
You Can 'Wellington' Way More Than Beef
You can make a designer meal that rivals the original in flavor and crushes it on affordability.
How to Make Your Own Girl Scout Cookie-Style Caramel deLites
Whether you call them Samoas or Caramel deLites, you deserve their chocolate-y, coconut-y goodness all year long.
Why You Should Consider a Gas Grill (and Three to Check Out)
When charcoal grills are too dirty and electric grills are too clean, look to the gas grill.
These Are the Best Cheeses for a Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The best cheese for a grilled cheese sandwich is personal. Find your soul-cheese here.
This Decadent Sandwich Is a Cross Between Monte Cristo and a Croque Monsieur
Transform a boring ham and cheese into an elevated croissant monsieur.
The Case for Buying a Charcoal Grill (and Three to Consider)
With unparalleled searing capabilities and portable design options, you can bring that chargrilled flavor wherever summer takes you.
The SPAM Ramen Burger Was Everything I Could Hope For
Every time I have SPAM I'm impressed. Smash that between two ramen noodle patties and I'm officially committed to the cause.
You Can Make DIY Ice Packs With Dish Sponges
Dish sponges can serve as cheap, quick ice packs— and fulfill their dish duty later.
Make the Mets' Rainbow Cookie Egg Roll at Home
Move over deep-fried Oreos, it's time Italian rainbow cookies got the spotlight.
Eight Thoughtful Food Gift Ideas for Father’s Day
Give your dad a gift he'll look forward to using either in the kitchen or outside.
These Dutch Ovens Can Double As Impromptu Coolers
Dutch ovens are known for their heating ability, but they can keep things pretty chill too.
The Cheeses You Can Freeze (and the Ones You Shouldn't)
A freezer stocked with cheese makes me feel safe.
Why You Should Consider an Electric Grill (and Three to Check Out)
Ignore the heckling from the charcoal and propane corners: an electric outdoor grill can make your summer great.
Candy Your Olives for a Surprising Treat
Sweet olives make more sense than you might think.
TikTok's Frozen Jell-O Grapes Need Help
Some TikTok food hacks are worth trying—and some could use a little assistance.
All the Ways I Like to Eat Pop-Tarts
Think trifles, ice cream sandwiches, milkshakes, and more.
How to Make Cold Brew Coffee
The perfect summer cold brew is well within your reach.
Make This Girl Scout Cookie Thin Mint Dupe
Hopefully this recipe can ease the torture of the next 10 months before those colorful boxes show up again on your doorstep.
Try This Breakfast Mac and Cheese
Despite what your parents may have told you, mac and cheese is a perfectly acceptable breakfast food.
The Easiest Way to Liven Up Your Cold Brew
Add nuance and new flavor notes to your favorite cold brew.