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
The Kitchen Tools That Deserve a Spot in Your Utensil Holder
Think of the utensil holder as your tool belt, and only load it with what you need on a daily basis.
Skip the Knife Block and Buy These Knives Instead
That mass-produced knife set is unlikely to work with your unique food personality.
The Eight Basic Baking Tools You Need (Even If You Don't Bake That Much)
Baking isn't all cupcakes and frosting. These baking tools are must-haves when outfitting your first kitchen.
The Best Way to Freeze and Reheat Rice
Freezing starchy rice in a giant block just won't do.
This Air Fried Key Lime Pie Is So Easy, It Feels Like Cheating
Few things are more satisfying than dessert and reduced bake time. This air fried key lime pie recipe has it all.
Jazz up Your Oatmeal With Honeyed Boba
These chewy orbs make eating oatmeal fun and exciting.
Make Better Poached Eggs by Freezing Them First
Freezing eggs locks in their round shape, and makes it harder to overcook the yolk.
How to Bake Eggs in a Muffin Tin for an Easy Morning
Bake eggs in a muffin tin to feed your entire family, or meal prep for the week. Here's how to do it.
Make a ‘Cheesy’ Dairy-free Sauce With Butternut Squash
Whether you’re vegan or simply cheese-averse, this butternut squash pasta sauce makes a killer mac and “cheese.”
Your Pan-fried Dumplings Need a Crispy Skirt
It’s the meat and dough equivalent of crème brûlée.
Your Pancakes Need Apple Cider Syrup
This simple apple cider syrup recipe turns your favorite fall drink into your favorite pancake topping.
You Can Make Funnel Cake With Pancake Mix
Deep fried pancake batter coated in powdered sugar makes a perfect copy-cat funnel cake.
These Are the Condiments You Need for This Year’s Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving dinner is even better when you can customize your plate.
A Cheese-Filled ‘Pumpkin’ Is the Perfect Holiday Appetizer
Few things say "fall" like a pumpkin-shaped baked brie. Here's how you can welcome in a festive season.
This Is the Fastest, Easiest Way to Make Whipped Cream
Making whipped cream in a food processor is exceptionally fast.
Six Cooling Rack Alternatives You Probably Already Have in Your Kitchen
Cooling pans and trays properly can make for a better meal. If you don't have a wire rack, these are the best alternatives.
Make This Quick Air Fryer Apple Turnover for Rosh Hashanah
It tastes like it took hours to make, but the air fryer makes quick work of this sweet and comforting treat.
How to Make Choux Pastry, or Pâte à Choux
Pâte à choux is a versatile dough that can be sweet or savory. Here's how to make it correctly.
The Best Ways to Make Your Own Bubble Tea
Bubble tea, or boba, is a drinkable snack that you can make and customize at home.
The Fail-Proof Way to Make a Lattice Pie Crust
The easy way to make a lattice pie crust is to avoid its enemies: liquid and heat.