Connect with us

Food and Beverage

Cracker Barrel Welcomes Spring With New Dishes and the Return of Classic Comforts

Cracker Barrel’s limited-time spring menu is available now nationwide, featuring the return of the Ham Dinner, Fried Catfish, Smoky Southern Salmon, new breakfast scrambles, and a Meals for Two deal.

Published

on

french fries and bread on plate
Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV on Pexels.com

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is leaning into what it does best this season: familiar, homestyle comfort—plus a few timely updates designed for spring get-togethers.

In a Feb. 10 announcement from Lebanon, Tennessee, the brand said its limited-time spring menu is now available nationwide, built around returning classics like the Ham Dinner and Fried Catfish, alongside seasonal additions including a refreshed Smoky Southern Salmon and new breakfast scrambles.

A spring menu built around “feels like home” comfort

Cracker Barrel framed the rollout around the idea that guests are looking for places that still feel warm, dependable, and familiar. The company said the spring lineup balances “craveable favorites” with “thoughtful seasonal additions,” keeping the experience rooted in the country hospitality the brand is known for.

“Spring has always been a season of coming together, and that sense of connection is at the heart of who we are,” said Thomas Yun, vice president of menu strategy and innovation at Cracker Barrel. “Our spring menu brings back the flavors guests know and love, while offering new ways to enjoy the comfort and care that make Cracker Barrel feel like home.”

Ham Dinner returns as the seasonal centerpiece

Back by popular demand, the Ham Dinner returns as the headliner of the spring menu. Cracker Barrel said the meal features sugar-cured or country ham, paired with guests’ choice of classic sides—such as Dumplins, Fried Cinnamon Apples, Hashbrown Casserole, Macaroni & Cheese, and Mashed Potatoes—plus warm buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins.

The company positioned the dish as a familiar option for spring gatherings, calling it a comfort meal that generations have grown up with.

Seafood options highlight seasonal cravings

Cracker Barrel is also leaning into a time of year when seafood tends to be top of mind, spotlighting a returning favorite and a seasonal refresh.

  • Fried Catfish: Two cornmeal-fried, U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets served with tartar sauce and hushpuppies, plus a choice of two or three classic sides.
  • Smoky Southern Salmon: Returning with an updated seasonal recipe featuring a smokier, more savory flavor profile. Guests can order it as an entrée, pair it with shrimp, or choose it as a salad topper.

Breakfast all day, with new scrambles and a sweet favorite

For guests who come to Cracker Barrel for breakfast at any hour, the spring menu introduces two new savory scrambles and brings back a seasonal sweet option.

  • Farmhouse Scramble: Bacon, sugar ham, peppers, onions, and Colby cheese over scrambled eggs, finished with diced tomatoes and green onions and drizzled with sweet-and-spicy maple syrup.
  • Garden Scramble: Roasted cremini mushrooms, spinach, peppers, onions, and pepper jack cheese over three scrambled eggs, topped with diced tomatoes and green onions.
  • Strawberry Stuffed Cheesecake Pancakes: Returning as a dessert-like breakfast option for a sweet start—or finish—to a meal.

Shareables and desserts bring back nostalgia

The spring lineup also includes a new shareable starter and the return of a classic dessert.

  • Hushpuppy Dippers: A new, shareable take on the hushpuppies traditionally served with Fried Catfish.
  • Carrot Cake: Returning with moist layers baked with coconut, pineapple, walnuts, cinnamon, and vanilla, topped with cream cheese icing and chopped pecans.

Cracker Barrel said these additions are meant to encourage guests to slow down, connect, and enjoy the “simple pleasures” associated with the brand.

“Meals for Two” value deal continues through spring

Cracker Barrel also confirmed its value-focused “Meals for Two” deal will extend through spring. Available all day Monday through Friday, the offer includes two entrées plus a choice of a shareable starter or dessert, starting at $19.99.

According to the company, the dine-in-only promotion runs through May 3, 2026, excludes taxes and beverages, and is not valid for carryout, delivery, online purchases, or with other discounts.

Availability and where to learn more

The limited-time spring menu is available now at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations nationwide. For more information or to find a location, visit CrackerBarrel.com.

About Cracker Barrel

Founded in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. serves homestyle food and offers retail merchandise across approximately 660 company-owned locations in 43 states. The company also owns the fast-casual Maple Street Biscuit Company.

Advertisement
Reveal Your Skin's Youthful Radiance with FOREO's LUNA 2 Facial Massager. Shop Now For $199

For media inquiries, Cracker Barrel provided: Media.relations@crackerbarrel.com.

HUNGRY FOR MORE?

Discover a feast for your senses with our Food & Drink Blog, a tantalizing part of STM Daily News. Get the latest articles, recipes, and foodie news delivered straight to your inbox. Satisfaction guaranteed!

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE THE LATEST RECIPES & FOODIE NEWS, PLUS SOME EXCLUSIVE GOODIES!

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Food and Drink

Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.

Continue Reading
Advertisement Simply Wholesale
Click to comment

Tell us what did you think about this article?

Food and Beverage

Purely Elizabeth Launches Purely Glow Granola, Its First Beauty-Inspired Limited Edition

Purely Elizabeth debuts Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, a limited-edition, beauty-inspired blend with collagen peptides and biotin, timed to New York Fashion Week.

Published

on

Last Updated on April 1, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Purely Elizabeth is stepping beyond the breakfast bowl and into the “glow-from-within” conversation.

The Boulder-based natural foods brand announced the launch of Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, a limited-edition flavor that blends its signature crunchy clusters with beauty-inspired functional ingredients—including collagen peptides and biotin. The drop is timed to New York Fashion Week, signaling how quickly wellness brands are borrowing cues from beauty culture: trend-driven, ritual-focused, and built for social.

Purely Elizabeth debuts Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, a limited-edition, beauty-inspired blend with collagen peptides and biotin, timed to New York Fashion Week.
Purely Elizabeth introduces its first-ever beauty-inspired granola, Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio, with collagen peptides and biotin, for a limited time.

Why a “beauty granola” now?

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok lately, you’ve seen the shift: wellness content is increasingly framed like skincare—daily routines, “non-negotiables,” and ingredients people swear by.

Purely Elizabeth points to that momentum in the announcement, noting that TikTok posts featuring collagen increased by 70% over the past year compared to the previous two years. At the same time, pistachio has had its own breakout moment, with 55,000 pistachio-related TikTok posts in the most recent year—a 104% increase over the prior 24 months.

Translation: consumers aren’t just shopping for flavor anymore. They’re shopping for functionaesthetic, and ritual.

What’s inside Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola

On the flavor side, Purely Glow is positioned as an elevated, dessert-leaning blend built around a salty-sweet profile:

  • Organic oats
  • Roasted pistachios
  • Real vanilla bean
  • A hint of sea salt

From a nutrition and formulation standpoint, the granola is:

  • Gluten-free
  • Sweetened with coconut sugar
  • Baked with coconut oil
  • good source of fiber
  • Enriched with collagen peptidescoconut water powder, and biotin

Founder and CEO Elizabeth Stein says the concept comes from a personal place—bringing together “nourishing food and daily beauty rituals,” and leaning into the idea that what you eat can be part of how you care for yourself.

A collab that takes it beyond the grocery aisle

To push the launch into lifestyle territory, Purely Elizabeth is partnering with Cha Cha Matcha for a limited-time “Purely Glow” menu at all locations.

The menu includes:

  • Pistachio Matcha Lattes (hot or iced)
  • Purely Glow Yogurt Parfait layered with coconut yogurt, matcha chia pudding, and topped with Purely Glow Granola

The brand is also hosting “Glow Up” pop-up events to bring the product to life:

  • Cha Cha Matcha Flatiron (NYC): February 12, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., plus the weekend
  • Cha Cha Matcha Beverly Hills: February 20–22

Availability and price

Purely Glow Granola launches February 12 for $7.99 and will be sold until it sells out. It’s available exclusively via:

  • PurelyElizabeth.com
  • TikTok Shop
  • Cha Cha Matcha locations

A brand move that fits the moment

Purely Elizabeth has been around for 16 years and says it has remained the #1 granola brand in the natural channel for more than eight consecutive years—so this isn’t a reinvention as much as a strategic expansion.

The bigger takeaway: food brands are increasingly marketing like beauty brands. Limited editions. Ingredient storytelling. Collabs. Pop-ups. Social-first launches.

Purely Glow is a clean example of that playbook—built around a trending flavor (pistachio), a trending function (collagen/biotin), and a cultural moment (NYFW) that makes the product feel like more than breakfast.

Advertisement
Reveal Your Skin's Youthful Radiance with FOREO's LUNA 2 Facial Massager. Shop Now For $199

For more details, visit purelyelizabeth.com.

Sources: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/purely-elizabeth-launches-limited-edition-purely-glow-granola-brands-first-beauty-inspired-granola-302683272.html

Continue Reading

Food and Beverage

Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

At-Home Lenten Meals: Lent is an opportunity for families to explore new seafood flavors, making mealtime enjoyable. Simple recipes, like One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi, encourage kids to confidently try seafood, enhancing family meals.

Published

on

Last Updated on April 1, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

(Feature Impact) Lent has long been a season of tradition and reflection, and it can also be an opportunity to introduce your family to exciting new flavors that may become staples in your kitchen.

If preparing seafood feels intimidating, try starting with dishes that are easy, familiar and approachable. For example, One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi features a velvety sauce, earthy spinach and buttery, delicious shrimp – a recognizable and approachable recipe that can be a gateway to discovery.

Made with SeaPak frozen shrimp, you can help picky eaters in your home feel more confident in saying “yes” to something new. Frozen seafood is a perfect partner for familiar favorites like pasta, making it a playful, stress-free solution for encouraging exploration at mealtime.

“For many families, Lent often brings a shift at the dinner table – and this year, parents are turning it into an opportunity to try something new,” said Diana Rice, child nutritionist and registered dietitian. “When food feels approachable, it lowers stress for everyone. Familiar flavors help kids say ‘yes’ more often, and those positive moments can make seafood a feel-good part of family meals during Lent and beyond.”

When kids see foods that look and taste familiar – like the crunch of crispy fried shrimp – they may feel more comfortable giving it a try. That’s why discovery can extend beyond the dinner table to snack time, too.

Give kiddos the energy they need for homework assignments with Butterfly Shimp Bruschetta, a quick solution for after-school or weekend snacking. As your pickier loved ones dive in for something new, those small wins can build confidence to try new things – one bite at a time.

This Lent, swap “giving up” for “try this” with more approachable frozen seafood solutions and family-friendly recipes at SeaPak.com.

//www.youtube.com/embed/006rXnSXZGY

17831 A detail embed1

One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 1          package (12 ounces) SeaPak Shrimp Scampi
  • 1 1/4    cups half-and-half or milk
  • 1 1/4    cups chicken stock
  • 8          ounces linguine noodles
  • 6          cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4       cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4          lemon wedges
  1. In large, high-sided saute pan, add shrimp and cook according to package directions. Remove shrimp to bowl and keep warm.
  2. In same pan with scampi sauce, stir in half-and-half and stock. Bring to low boil. Add pasta. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked al dente, 8-10 minutes.
  3. Stir in spinach and cook just until beginning to wilt. Stir reserved shrimp into pan.
  4. To serve, divide shrimp scampi between four bowls and top each with grated Parmesan. Serve with lemon wedges.
17831 B detail embed2

Butterfly Shrimp Bruschetta

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

  • 1          package (9 ounces) SeaPak Jumbo Butterfly Shrimp
  • 1          baguette
  • 3          garlic cloves, divided
  • 6          tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3          cups grape or cherry tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
  • 1/3       cup chopped basil, plus additional for garnish
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Bake shrimp according to package directions and keep warm.
  2. Slice baguette to match number of shrimp. Rub one garlic clove over one side of each slice of bread. Brush garlic-rubbed sides with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Set aside.
  3. Finely dice remaining garlic.
  4. In medium mixing bowl, stir tomatoes, remaining olive oil, diced garlic and 1/3 cup chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and set aside.
  5. In large, hot skillet, working in batches, add baguette slices oil sides down and cook until browned around edges. Remove from pan.
  6. Top each baguette slice with small spoonful of tomato mixture and one shrimp. Garnish with basil leaf.

collect?v=1&tid=UA 482330 7&cid=1955551e 1975 5e52 0cdb 8516071094cd&sc=start&t=pageview&dl=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.familyfeatures
track

SOURCE:

Advertisement
Reveal Your Skin's Youthful Radiance with FOREO's LUNA 2 Facial Massager. Shop Now For $199

SeaPak

track

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/

Author

Continue Reading

Food and Beverage

Create Little Moments of Happiness This Spring with Family-Friendly Potato Recipes

As spring encourages outdoor activities, The Little Potato Company offers time-saving products, like pre-washed Little Potatoes and crispy snacks. Enjoy convenient family meals and enter their sweepstakes for a chance to win travel and grocery prizes.

Published

on

As the weather breaks and spring brings increased opportunities for families to get outside, activities, adventures and jam-packed calendars abound. Bring a little moment of happiness to busy family mealtimes during the spring season with these recipes for Crispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets and Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes.

(Feature Impact) As the weather breaks and spring brings increased opportunities for families to get outside, activities, adventures and jam-packed calendars abound. All those special moments spent at the park, the sports field or in the backyard may leave lasting memories, but they can also leave you feeling short on time in the kitchen.

Bring a little moment of happiness to busy family mealtimes during the spring season with The Little Potato Company’s line of easy-to-prepare Little Potatoes. They come pre-washed, require no peeling and are small enough that they don’t need to be cut, allowing for less time in the kitchen and more family time around the table as the days get longer – no extra spring cleaning required. For an added helping of convenience, their Microwave Ready Little Potato Kits come with delicious seasoning packs; simply pop into the microwave, sprinkle on the included seasoning and enjoy.

For a fun after-school or game-night snack, these Crispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets pair perfectly with a variety of delicious dips. The air fryer cooks the potatoes in minutes, creating a crispy snack with minimal prep – no chopping or peeling needed.

Or you can make a delicious side dish a cinch with pesto, which adds a bright, flavorful twist to a classic in these Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes. They pair perfectly with everyday family meals using Little Potatoes that require no chopping or peeling thanks to their naturally thin skins, helping cut down on prep time while bringing fresh flavor to the dinner table.

To help fuel families’ spring vacation plans and everyday meals, The Little Potato Company is giving you a chance to enter a sweepstakes through May 25 to win a $10,000 travel voucher with additional prizes including 10 grocery gift cards valued at $1,000.

Enter the sweepstakes at TheLittleSpringtimeSweeptakes.com, and find more ways to make spring meals a breeze by visiting LittlePotatoes.com.

17864 A detail embed

Crispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets and Dip

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 24 minutes

Servings: 4

Potatoes:

  • 1          cup all-purpose flour
  • 1          teaspoon salt
  • 1          teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2       teaspoon pepper
  • 1          cup milk
  • 1 1/2    cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 1/2    pounds Little Potatoes

Chimichurri:

  • 1          bunch cilantro
  • 1          bunch parsley
  • 3          limes, juice only
  • 2          tablespoons honey
  • 2          teaspoons salt
  • 1/2       teaspoon pepper
  • 1          teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1          cup canola oil
  1. Heat air fryer to 390 F.
  2. To make potatoes: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Whisk in milk until smooth.
  3. Place panko in a separate shallow bowl.
  4. Working in batches, coat potatoes in batter then toss in panko until fully coated.
  5. Place potatoes in the air fryer and cook 24 minutes, flipping halfway.
  6. To make chimichurri: In a blender, blend cilantro, parsley, lime juice, honey, salt, pepper, chili flakes and canola oil until smooth.
  7. Serve potato nuggets with chimichurri.
17864 B detail embed

Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

  • 1 1/2    pounds Little Potatoes
  •             water
  • 1          teaspoon salt, plus additional for seasoning, to taste, divided
  • 2 1/2    cups fresh basil
  • 4          cloves garlic
  • 1/3       cup pine nuts
  • 1/2       cup Parmesan, grated
  • 2/3       cup olive oil
  • pepper, to taste
  • 1/2       cup milk
  • 2          tablespoons butter
  1. Add potatoes to a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  2. In a food processor, place basil, garlic, pine nuts and Parmesan. Add oil and pulse until mixed then season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  3. In a small saucepot over low heat, heat milk and butter until butter is melted and milk is steaming.
  4. Once potatoes are cooked, strain and transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  5. Using a potato masher, smash potatoes with milk and butter mixture then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in pesto mixture.
    collect?v=1&tid=UA 482330 7&cid=1955551e 1975 5e52 0cdb 8516071094cd&sc=start&t=pageview&dl=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.familyfeatures
track

SOURCE:

Little Potato Company

STM Daily News’ Food and Drink section highlights the stories, trends, flavors, and events shaping today’s food culture. From recipes to restaurant news, it keeps readers connected to what’s fresh and worth tasting.

Author

Continue Reading

Trending