Spend Your Gift Card Money On These Practical Picks From The Amazon New Year’s Sale

Jan 02, 2024

If you’re the type of person that asks for gift cards and cash when the holidays roll around but have zero idea what to spend them on post-Christmas, I hear you. I did the same this year so I could actually buy things I want (or more realistically, need) and skip the typical pile of stuff I’d have to haul home, and subsequently use *very* sparingly. Now that I’m older, I’m beginning to appreciate those more useful and thoughtful gifts.

Now that gifting szn has sadly come to an end, it’s due time to spend those gift cards! It’s quite perfect timing that the Amazon New Year’s Sale is going on right now – with it, you can really maximize that gifted money! Let these picks from the Amazon New Year’s Sale guide you to more practical purchases for 2024, or just a few little pick-me-ups that’ll help you kick your year off right. 😉

Beauty Finds

Everyone Hair Care Peppermint & Tea Tree Super Scalp Scrub

You know your regular hair care routine is needing a good refresh. This scalp exfoliant prioritizes cell growth after effectively buffing away build-up so that you can meet 2024 with luscious locks! It's currently 10% off, the perfect excuse to stock up.

Hot Tools 24K Gold One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer

Take an entire 43% off this easy-to-use hair tool with the Amazon New Year's sale. I have one and am obsessed with it. I can also attest to the fact that this bristled hair dryer will soon replace every single tool in your current rotation.

Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Serum with Broad Spectrum SPF 60+

Sunscreen is a no-brainer when it comes to skincare. Never skip another daily application by stocking up on a bottle (or a few) of this sheer, skin-friendly SPF that's currently 39% off.

Tree of Life Retinol Facial Moisturizer

If you're more into saving your hard-earned $ for something other than skincare, your Amazon gift card will come in clutch for refilling your bathroom shelf faves. Make this moisturizer your first 'add to cart' – it's made of clean ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid for locking in moisture (which is much needed this time of year).

Waterpik Cordless Advanced Water Flosser

The new year is for reevaluating current routines, and for many, their oral hygiene game is def on that list. Luckily, this Waterpik is all about convenience, so your dental reinvention doesn't have to feel like such a chore. It's cordless, travel-friendly, and effective at removing 99.9% of plaque in a single go. Oh, and it's 30% off right now.

Neutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover & Cleanser for Sensitive Eyes

This fan-fave makeup remover has thousands of 5-star reviews, championing it for its gentleness and ease. Even waterproof mascara is no match for this bottle! Spend just over $16 for a pack of three to last you a while.

Home Goods

YouCopia StoraBag Space-Saving Plastic Bag Dispenser

I know I'm not alone in my utter annoyance with plastic bags... and the massive stockpile of them sitting in my pantry. This $25 (current Amazon New Year's Sale price) dispenser eliminates the stress of clutter by providing a compact storage solution that can be placed under the sink or on a shelf.

Serta Luxuriously Soft Plush Electric Blanket

Treat yourself to sheer luxury in this electric blanket. We've still got a few cold months of winter to live through, so they might as well be comfy! This blanket is currently 20% off, comes in a variety of bed sizes, plus has two controllers so you can share the warmth.

IRIS USA 6 Pack 32qt Plastic Storage Bin with Lid and Secure Latching Buckles

Wether you need a new holiday decor storage fix after years of the same cardboard boxes, or are searching for an easy way to reorganize your clutter and keepsakes, these plastic bins step up to any job. They're all compatible to stack on one another so you can make smart use of vertical space.

O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop

Your future cleaning self will thank you endlessly for snagging this no-fuss mop for the new year. It features a hands-free wringing design and a pointed shape to reach those often forgotten spots. Your wallet will also appreciate that it's 25% off right now!

Royal Craft Wood Adjustable Bamboo Bath Tub Table

Forget a fancy-schmancy spa day. You can host your own right at home! Start by laying out all your bathtime goodies on this expandable tub table – it'll change your life. The silicone grips on each side eliminate any slippage during use so you can really relax. When you're done using it, the table folds up for easy under-sink storage. It's currently down to $21.97 from $38.97. 👀

LEVOIT Vital 200S Air Purifier

This sleek air purifier covers larger square footages, combatting pet odor, allergens, and viruses all at once. It comes fitted with a high-quality HEPA filter, so you can have peace of mind that it's actually doing what it says it's doing. Shop it at 16% off with the Amazon New Year's Sale!

Mellanni Full Size Sheet Set

Give your bed a buttery-soft makeover with this complete sheet set. You're bound to find a color that suits your space, since they come in 41 different shades! The best part is the microfiber construction – it works to wick away moisture and keep your skin cool overnight. To better sleep (at 25% off, too)!

WOWBOX 21-Piece Clear Plastic Drawer Organizer Set

Plastic drawer organizers hit it quite big in our Amazon carts last year. In the vein of getting your sh*t together – clutter and all – in 2024, you just can't miss this deal. Pay just a little bit over $21 for a dozen pieces of pure organization for your dresser, desk, and... junk drawer. You know it needs it!

BALEINE 7.5ft Christmas Tree Storage Bag

As we sunset the Christmas season, please don't let your tree hang out in the bare air. Without the proper reinforcements, it might wear faster or get damaged. Luckily, this storage bag, shoppable at 25% off, suits a range of tree sizes to keep the spirit alive once the holidays roll around again.

Kitchen

De'Longhi La Specialista Arte EC9155MB Espresso Machine with Grinder

I fear that an espresso machine will always be on my wish list. If you're unlike me and actually ready to invest in some pure, caffeinated coffee magic, now is the time because this model is currently 29% off, saving you around $200 on a nearly-$700 tool. By purchasing this singular item, you're sparing yourself of all the extra bits and bobs, as it already has a bean grinder, a milk wand, shot glasses, and tamping tools included. 🤤

KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set

Kitchen linens are always the first thing to get really run-down from daily use. Upgrade your nasty, obnoxiously stained oven mitts (we all have them) for 2024 by snagging this duo set with your Amazon gift card – they're currently half off! You can get 'em in practically any color you'd please, plus the silicone design makes each one super easy to clean. No further stains here!

Classic Cuisine Bowls with Lids, Set of 3

Leftovers will come and go, but you can at least make them last longer with the right receptacles. When in use, each one of these bowls (32% off right now!) is microwave, freezer, and fridge safe. Once ready to store, they nest within each other to save kitchen cabinet space.

YouCopia UpSpace Adjustable Box Organizer for Foil Wrap and Kitchen Cabinet Storage

This handy shelf consolidates every single pesky little roll of kitchen wrap you need in the day-to-day. Since spending your own dough on the necessities can get pretty boring, this piece is the perfect contender to spend your gift card cash on the Amazon New Year's Sale. Save 15% now!

JoyJolt Divided Food Storage Containers with Airtight Lids

It doesn't really matter if your New Year's resolution includes a rigorous meal prep plan or not. These airtight containers do a stellar job at keeping food fresh. Save a whole 20% on this 5-pack so you can step up your food storage game in 2024.

Fashion

The Drop Women's Kiara Loose-Fit Long Faux Fur Coat

Now onto the fun stuff – fashion! 😏 Since it's still nippy out, I figured some chic outerwear was fitting. This faux fur pick from The Drop is currently 30% off and certainly is a great investment for building out the capsule wardrobe of your dreams.

Amazon Essentials Women's Fisherman Cable Turtleneck Sweater

Turtlenecks are another signature piece for cold season, but investing in the basics doesn't have to be costly. Take this cable knit one for example: it's just over $30, comes in 21 different colors, and boasts a very durable cotton material that'll insulate your body heat when you need it most (and for many years onward).

Promover Yoga Pants Wide Leg Sweatpants with Pockets

If I wear one thing on the regular, it's wide leg yoga pants. They're comfy! They're flattering! This pair in particular is part of the Amazon New Year's Sale for 16% off, and you can find 'em in just about any color to better suit your WFH wardrobe or lazy Sunday garb.

ODODOS Women's Crop 3-Pack Washed Seamless Rib-Knit Camisole Crop Tank Tops

I adore these stretchy crop tops because they're appropriate for a range of occasions, from the gym to dinners out with friends. The thick, seamless fabric keeps things nicely intact, whether you're on the go or not, and TBH, you don't always need a bra to go with. A pack of three tank tops costs just under $24, with multiple colors available.

Amazon Essentials Women's Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Hooded Puffer Coat

Like other winter wear, puffer coats are great for maintaining a comfy body temp. This style is available in the Amazon New Year's Sale, and provides the perfect cold weather layer.

Wellness + Workout

Moon Juice Magnesi-Om Magnesium Supplement

The internet has grown to love magnesium, nodding to its potential benefits for deeper, more refreshing sleep. This powder supplement would make for an excellent addition to your next Sleepy Girl Mocktail! Save 30% (almost $13) on a jar with the Amazon New Year's Sale to kickstart better shut-eye.

Gaiam Yoga Mat

If your home gym has been yearning for proper equipment, a yoga mat is a great place to start. This patterned one is currently 29% off and ripe for the picking when you feel like spending your gift card on an affordable workout option.

REDLIRO Under Desk Treadmill 2 in 1 Walking Pad

Hot girl walks just got so much easier with this indoor walking pad. Take 43% off this durable piece of equipment before the sale ends to jump on your 2024 fitness goals!

Vital Proteins Matcha Collagen Peptides Powder Supplement

2024's food trends predict that caffeinated beverages and drink mixes will get boosted with additional beneficial ingredients like probiotics and adaptogens. This Vital Proteins pick is a prime example of the "Better Boost" trend, this time infusing a tasty matcha powder with collagen peptides that support healthy skin, nails, hair, and joints. Save 20% on this tub that improves your daily bev during the Amazon New Year's Sale right now!

Fitbit Inspire 3 Health &-Fitness-Tracker

The top of the year is always a good time to invest in things that might otherwise be a little too expensive. Take this fitness tracker for example – it would've been $100 without the sale, but now, it's just $70! With a gift card, that's basically free. Boom – girl math.

Shop more in-season picks with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Images via Amazon.

The 7 Best Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin, According To Reddit Users

Acne-prone skin can be as moody as it is sensitive, and finding makeup that doesn't clog your pores can feel maddening. Luckily for us, some finely skilled Reddit users know how to weed through the BS and find just about anything you might need — including the best foundation for acne-prone skin. While other foundations seem to send out a bat signal to inflammation and breakouts, trust me when I say these won't.

Seriously, so many people had the best recommendations, from weightless to full coverage options. Still, it's important to note that not every option will work for everyone. If you want to best understand what foundation fits your skin best, this Master Esthetician (hi, Theonlytruesavage!) commented, "Only an isolated test of that one product can really tell you what works. And I mean 1 isolated product." They suggest trying a single foundation and changing "nothing else in your routine for 30 days at a minimum."

So, if you're looking to make a change and finally find the best foundation for acne-prone skin, look no further! From drugstore to more luxury options, here's what you should try, per our BFFs at Reddit.

Sephora

Tower 28 Broad Speactrum SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation

As a huge Tower 28fan, I'm actually surprised I haven't tried this tinted SPF yet. But, after seeing how much the Reddit community loves it, I have complete confidence that it's safe for acne-prone skin. Some important things to note about this fan-favorite are that it's:

Fragrance-free
Non-Comedogenic
Marked safe for people who have acne
Has natural coverage and light finish

You're essentially getting a lightweight foundation that offers protection from the sun with ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide, prickly pear extract, and white sage extract.

Sephora

Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation

This community-loved on Sephora — and Reddit — may be the best foundation for acne-prone skin because of it's weightless formula. Also, the botanical blend of lotus, gardenia, and water lily ingredients treat the skin from the inside out. Other important things to note are that this foundation:

Offers medium coverage
Has a natural finish
Is great for oily, combination, and normal skin

Sephora

Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation

Here's another weightless foundation you can pick up at Sephora. The formula is a little thinner than most because of it's "serum-like" finish, but that's nothing to be scared of! It has Vita-Serum Complex as well as Diamond Core Powder Technology in it — two things that not only champion hydration, but also creates a "burring, illuminated effect."

Sephora

Nars Soft Matte Complete Foundation

This foundation is for my full-coverage girlies who want to get a glam look that doesn't irritate their skin. This option from Nars got SO many shoutouts on Reddit — probably because it doesn't have things like parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, or mineral oil in it, making it an optimal choice. The bio hyaluronic acid, micro-algae extract, and anti-oxidation complex make me want to give it a chance this weekend!

Sephora

Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation

Weightless foundations can be long-wearing, too — just look at the beloved Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation. It features light-diffusing pigments, blurring spheres, and more antioxidants that work overtime to keep your skin healthy. If you're still on the fence about trying it, a Sephora survey indicates 87% of people who tried it feels like it "gives a soft-focus finish." Yes please!

Sephora

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation

This full-coverage foundation for acne-prone skin is going to keep things matte when you wear it. Apparently the formula was changed so that it became breathable and healthier due to not having any mineral oil in it. This option is:

Fragrance-free
Long-wearing
Matte

Plus, this contains hyaluronic acid — always a plus to get that sweet, sweet serum love!

Sephora

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Foundation

Out of all the foundations we've listed, none of them have claimed to be a "complexion booster" like Charlotte Tilbury's formula. Truthfully it's all in the name — with milled powders and porcelain flower extract, you'll appreciate the glow this foundation adds to your skin.

If you need more beauty recs, follow our Amazon Storefront for everything we love to keep stocked.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizers That Satisfy The Whole Table

Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving with your family or having a cozy dinner for two, you want some time to sit back and relax on Turkey Day – even to enjoy some fun holiday games and activities while you wait for the turkey to brown. Make the day way easier by whipping up any of these easy make-aheadThanksgivingappetizer recipes and give yourself an actual Thanksgiving break.

Brit + Co

Bread Cornucopia and Cheese

Nothing says Thanksgiving like a cornucopia, so a bread cornucopia is the perfect appetizer centerpiece for your pre-feast party. (via Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. With this recipe, you can prep a creamy, buttery batch ahead of the big day and have it ready to go when your guests gather together. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Mac + Cheese Donuts

Not every appetizer has to be high rent. Whether you're prepping for Friendsgiving or an Turkey Day with your closest family, these delicious edibles will be a crowd pleaser. (via Brit + Co)

The Cafe Sucre Farine

Rosemary Pecan Goat Cheese Truffles

These babies are actually pretty darn classy, and they showcase all the flavors of the spectrum. There's rosemary for herb lovers, pecan to add some nuttiness, and even Sriracha for a bit of heat. Pro tip: Serve with a basic crispy wafer so as not to detract from the spread. (via The Cafe Sucre Farine)

Nerds With Knives

Crostini With Bleu Cheese and Roasted Grapes

This recipe takes almost no time to make. Slice up some blue cheese and add grapes to your favorite baguette. (via Nerds With Knives)

Little Spice Jar

Gruyere, Mushroom, and Caramelized Onion Bites

Add Gruyere, mushrooms, and caramelized onions to puffed pastry for a simple and delicious appetizer. And the best part is, you can make this up to 48 hours ahead of time, giving you plenty of wiggle room for your Turkey Day prep. (via Little Spice Jar)

Better Homes & Gardens

Cran-Sage Rolls

Not only is there nothing wrong with using frozen dough once in a while, but it's actually kind of a perfect Thanksgiving treat. These rolls are flavored with cranberries and sage for an elegant holiday version of trust crescent rolls. (via Better Homes & Gardens)

Hello Little Home

Ranch Pumpkin Seeds

These pumpkin seeds are both salty and tangy, plus you get a nice crunch from baking them for a bit. (via Hello Little Home)

I Will Not Eat Oysters

Kabocha and Havarti Pockets

Prepare these hearty pockets a few days before Thanksgiving, stick them in the fridge, and bake on the day of. (via I Will Not Eat Oysters)

Real Housemoms

Onion, Cranberry, and Pecan Cheese Ball

Cheese balls are a classic appetizer. Add onion, cranberries, and pecans to make yours next-level. (via Real Housemoms)

Well Plated

Cranberry Baked Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Brie can get super messy. Make bites instead and pop some cranberry in them to Thanksgiving-ify. Serve with fresh cranberries or — our personal favorite — sweet cranberry sauce. (via Well Plated)

How Sweet Eats

Pomegranate Jeweled White Cheddar, Toasted Almond, and Crispy Sage Cheeseball

This big bundle of flavor is so cheesy. It's coated in pomegranate seeds, which makes it super festive and sweet. (via How Sweet Eats)

The Suburban Soapbox

Tomato Jam and Cheddar Palmiers

TBH the thought of tomato jam is a little scary. But, once you try this recipe, you and your fam will be totally hooked. Add a little cheddar to make these extra flavorful. (via The Suburban Soapbox)

Recipe Rebel

Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini

These tiny crostinis take the idea of bruschetta and turn it on its head. Instead of light, summery toppings, you'll be treated to festive cranberries, savory bacon, and gooey cheese. (via Recipe Rebel)

Home Is Where the Boat Is

Cha-Cha Chicken Salad

There's an unexpected sweetness to this chicken salad, and it comes from pineapples and cranberries. Top with a fresh sprig of rosemary. (via Home Is Where the Boat Is)

Chew Out Loud

Pumpkin Bacon Dip

Nothing says Thanksgiving more than pumpkin-flavored everything, and that doesn't stop at chips and dip. Top this dip with bacon and green onions for extra flavor. (via Chew Out Loud)

Gimme Some Oven

5-Ingredient Caprese Phyllo Cups

Caprese is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that you really can't go wrong with. Drizzle these with pesto or balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor, but wait to do that part until you're ready to serve — otherwise they may get soggy. (via Gimme Some Oven)

Deliciously Sprinkled

Pumpkin Dip

When it comes to dips, what could be more Thanksgiving-y than a concoction made with pumpkin? Serve with crackers, apples, or lightly sweetened cookies to tide your guests over until the big meal. (via Deliciously Sprinkled)

Food & Wine

Prosciutto-Fontina Pinwheels

Thinly sliced prosciutto, Fontina cheese, and puff pastry are just about all you need to make these pinwheels. The best part is that they totally make you into the best ever Turkey Day hostess. (via Food & Wine)

The Suburban Soapbox

Sweet and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Go for a not-so-traditional Thanksgiving food and cook up a batch of stuffed mushrooms. The sweet and spicy flavors of this app will make it go fast. (via The Suburban Soapbox)

Pip and Ebby

Antipasto Skewers

Assemble these skewers a day ahead of schedule. Put them on a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until ready to serve. (via Pip and Ebby)

Amy in the Kitchen

Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp Dip

Dip toast points, pita chips, and breadsticks into this indulgent dip, which you can make a day before Thanksgiving and pop in the oven to warm up when you're ready to eat. We won't judge if you decide to toss the leftovers with some warm pasta and call it a meal. (via Amy in the Kitchen)

My Gorgeous Recipes

Quick Chicken Liver Pâté

Go old school this Thanksgiving, serving chicken liver pâté and toast points as an appetizer. The pâté will keep for a few days in the fridge; just let it sit for 20 minutes at room temperature before you dig in. (via My Gorgeous Recipes)

Tara's Multicultural Table

Bavarian Cheese and Beer Spread

A robust cheese spread, made with beer, is an appropriately hearty start to your Thanksgiving feast. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)

Savory Tooth

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

We all have that family member who claims they don't like Brussels sprouts. Change their mind with these bacon-wrapped versions, which you can make ahead and heat in the oven just before serving (though they're delish at room temperature too). (via Savory Tooth)

The Home Cook's Kitchen

Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Earthy mushrooms and tangy goat cheese create a balanced bite with this bruschetta recipe. Make sure your bread is extra toasty, so you can prep it without worrying about it getting soggy. (via The Home Cook's Kitchen)

No Spoon Necessary

Roasted Sweet Potato Harissa Hummus

Ditch the candied sweet potatoes and serve up this creamy hummus instead. It'll keep for at least a couple of days in the fridge, freeing up time for you to work on the rest of your seasonal cooking. (via No Spoon Necessary)

Sweet Peas and Saffron

Lasagna Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Make these stuffed mushrooms, freeze them, then pop 'em into the oven on Thanksgiving. Just try to resist eating so many you lose your appetite before the big meal. (via Sweet Peas and Saffron)

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Spicy Marinated Cheese

The cheese is marinated in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices, and gets better if you make it a day or two in advance. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

Lisa's Dinnertime Dish

Italian Sausage and Bean Bruschetta

Loaded with Italian sausage and white beans, this take on bruschetta is hearty enough for colder weather. Warm it up slightly before serving with toasted baguette slices. (via Lisa's Dinnertime Dish)

Cathy's Gluten Free

Sweet Potato Salad with Bacon

A little sweet, a little salty, this paleo salad is a satisfying but healthy starter. Top it with toasted pecans to add some crunch to each bite. (via Cathy's Gluten Free)

Garlic & Zest

Prosciutto and Date Palmiers

Flaky, cheesy, and sweet, palmiers will definitely stimulate your tastebuds. (via Garlic & Zest)

Food Meanderings

Caesar Twice-Baked Potatoes

Mini potatoes seasoned with Caesar dressing are twice-baked for this recipe. You can assemble them ahead of time, then bake them for the second time right before they're served! (via Food Meanderings)

Half Baked Harvest

Baked French Onion Meatballs

Talk about yum. Beef up your classic French onion soup recipe with a few meatballs to add a hearty touch, and top them off with a bit of gruyere. Trust us: your guests are going to thank you. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Barley & Sage

Goat Cheese Risotto with Cherry Tomato Confit

This easy-peasy recipe is actually pretty darn classy and showcases all the flavors on the spectrum. There's basil for herb lovers, plump cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor, and a mix-in of goat cheese for an elevated flavor. (via Barley & Sage)

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Caprese Bruschetta with Basil Pesto

This recipe takes almost no time to make. Slice up some mozzarellaslices, tomatoes, and drizzle some vinaigrette and pesto to your favorite baguette. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Where is My Spoon?

Puff Pastry Nibbles

Add sliced tomatoes, pesto (store-bought or homemade!), and sprinkle on some hard cheese to puff pastry pieces for a simple and delicious Thanksgiving appetizer. And the best part is, you can make this up to 48 hours ahead of time, giving you plenty of wiggle room for your Turkey Day prep. (via Where is My Spoon?)

Two Peas & Their Pod

Stuffed Mushrooms

We get it: either you love mushrooms or you hate them with a passion, but this recipe is bound to convert any hater. These mushrooms are jam-packed with parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs for a delectable Thanksgiving finger food. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Culinary Hill

2-Ingredient Italian Sausage Rolls

These 2-ingredient rolls are sure to please both the kids and adults tables this year. Make them ahead of time, then easily heat them back up once Thanksgiving Day rolls around. (via Culinary Hill)

A Spicy Perspective

Bacon Kalamata Cheese Puffs

For those who don't already know, kalamata is a type of olive… which makes these appetizers perfect for your vegetarian guests. Prepare these pockets a few days before Thanksgiving, stick them in the fridge, and bake the day of. (via A Spicy Perspective)

The Fast Recipe

Spicy Cajun Deviled Eggs

What *doesn't* sound good about these deviled eggs? Cajun seasoning and hot sauce give these otherwise totally traditionalfinger foods a savory, rich layer of flavor. (via The Fast Recipe)

The Bossy Kitchen

Cheese Straws with Feta and Poppy Seeds

To make these cheese straws, twist together some feta and a homemade dough, then bake. These taste ahh-mazing all on their own, but you can get creative with the toppings if you're feeling frisky. (via The Bossy Kitchen)

Takes Two Eggs

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Cheese bread is a classic appetizer. The cream cheese and honey butter in this recipe takes this to the next level. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Half Baked Harvest

Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie Bites

Brie can get super messy. Make some tiny bites instead, and pop some cranberry in them to Thanksgiving-ify. Serve with fresh cranberries or — our personal favorite — sweet cranberry sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Averie Cooks

Dill Pickle Cheese Ball

While the term “cheese ball" might not sound particularly refined, this big bundle of flavor actually kinda is. It's coated in cheddar cheese, for one thing, which makes it a total crowd-pleaser. We recommend adding pickle slices to this bad boy for extra oomph. (via Averie Cooks)

The Endless Meal

Crispy Boursin Arancini

Crispy Boursin arancinis the perfect make-ahead appetizer that you can reheat in the oven. Once you try this recipe, you and your fam will be totally hooked. The Boursin center make these extra flavorful! (via The Endless Meal)

Cozy Cravings

Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Pinwheels

These spinach and ricotta pinwheels take pre-dinner bread to a whole other level. Enjoy a swirl of buttery puff pastry, salty parmesan, and gooey ricotta for the ultimate savory treat. (via Cozy Cravings)

The Bossy Kitchen

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Nothing says Thanksgiving more than cranberry-infused everything, and that doesn't stop at chips and dip! Top this dip with slivered almonds and green onions for extra flavor. (via The Bossy Kitchen)

Hello Little Home

Baked Brie with Cranberries & Pecans

There's an unexpected sweetness to this baked brie, and it comes from the cranberries. Prep ahead then bake to experience the ooey-gooey center. (via Hello Little Home)

The First Mess

Roasted Carrot & Harissa Chickpea Dip

When it comes to prepping ahead, dips of any kind are a crowd-pleasing dish that you really can't go wrong with. Top this spread with pine nuts and pomegranate pearls for extra flavor, but wait to do that part until you're ready to serve it — otherwise, it may all get mixed in. (via The First Mess)

Live Eat Learn

Leek Quiche Recipe with Goat Cheese

One of the best things about a quiche is that you can eat it at any time of year. Full of leeks and cheesy goodness, this recipe is a great way to sneak in some vegetables ahead of the big feast. (via Live Eat Learn)

The Endless Meal

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

This Thanksgiving, indulge in the traditional decadence that is a spinach and artichoke dip. The best part about a tried and true favorite like this is that it'll totally make you the best-ever Turkey Day hostess! (via The Endless Meal)

Rachel Mansfield

Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups

Speaking of spinach artichoke dip, opt for these lil' cups to avoid the mess. You definitely won't have to worry about forgetting the chips! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Two Peas & Their Pod

Cherry Arugula Farro Salad

Go for a not-so-traditional Thanksgiving food and whip up a light, yet filling salad. The sweet and crunchy texture of this appetizer will make it go fast. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Salt & Lavender

Easy Antipasto Skewers

Assemble these skewers a day ahead of schedule. Put them on a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until you're ready to serve them. (via Salt & Lavender)

Join our newsletter for more make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizers and other delicious recipe ideas!

This article has been updated with additional reporting by Maggie McCracken, Justina Huddleston, and Meredith Holser.

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11 Expensive-Looking Amazon Christmas Decorations Under $35

Now that Halloween is officially over, it’s time to lean into all things holiday cheer. My favorite way to get into the Christmas spirit is decorating my space to match all the cookie decorating parties, gift wrapping sessions, and holiday cocktail hours to come this winter. But I’m one to do this on a budget – I often hit the thrift store for Christmas decor. When I’m not there, I’m scouring Amazon for pieces that are cute, but still take it easy on my wallet.

holiday decor amazon christmas decor shopping budget-friendly home decor

Bye, PSL! The Starbucks Holiday Menu For 2024 Is Back

So long, pumpkin spice season: Starbucks’ holiday menu has officially returned, and it brings back a ton of seasonal favorites!

In addition to the classic Peppermint Mocha to the beloved Caramel Brûlée Latte, a new Refresher flavor, 6 unique cold foams, and 4 new bakery items are now available at Starbucks locations as the holidays draw near – including many items we predicted! The lineup is honestly wild. The Starbucks holiday menu hit stores on November 7.

If you just can’t wait to order off the Starbucks holiday menu, here’s every offering available at your closest cafe!

When will the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2024 come out?

Starbucks

The new holiday drinks and snacks from Starbucks came out on November 7, 2024.

Will there be holiday cups?

Starbucks

Yes, the Starbucks holiday menu includes some new holiday cup designs! You can peek at all the new designs for 2024 here.

What's missing from this year's rumored Starbucks holiday menu?

Starbucks

The Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread Loaf won't be returning to cafes for 2024. We're especially sad to see the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha not included, though the official menu lineup has yet to be released!

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Though there's no official word out about Red Cup Day for 2024, our best guess – based on the Red Cup Days of years past – is it'll return mid-November. In 2023, Red Cup Day fell on November 16. In 2022, the coffee chain held the event on November 17. Both dates landed on the third Thursday of November, so we predict it to hit on November 21 for 2024. Red Cup Day is when Starbucks customers can get a free reusable red cup when they order a seasonal drink off the holiday menu!

Initially introduced for fall 2024, it appears as though the Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew will stay on the Starbucks menu well into winter. The salted, pecan-flavored cold foam offers that classic sweet n' salty twist you'd enjoy on fall snacks like trail mix or dipped pretzels. The best part is you can now also order the cold foam in non-dairy form!

Starbucks

Holiday Cold Foams

Starbs will also be bringing back four beloved holiday-flavored cold foamsand two new options for 2024. They're the perfect drink customization to add to your iced coffees and cold brews if you don't want to order an all-out holiday drink. See all the flavors below:

NEW! Gingerbread
NEW! Salted Pecan
Peppermint Chocolate
Sugar Cookie
Chestnut Praline
Caramel Brûlée

The Cranberry Bliss Bar has become an absolute staple on the Starbucks holiday menu, and for good reason! This blondie treat is smothered in a delicious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with orange zest and dried cranberries for added seasonal enjoyment.

What People Are Saying About The Leaked Starbucks Holiday Menu

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Famed foodie account @markie_devo was the first to leak the Starbucks holiday menu earlier this year. Though most commenters on @markie_devo's Starbucks holiday menu leak post seemed to be excited for the upcoming rumored menu items, some Starbs fans noticed a few things missing from the leaked lineup.

"Still missing eggnog 😢," someone noted.

"Where is the toasted white chocolate mocha 😢😢😢😢," another questioned.

"ALLLLLL these cold foams, and not the one people want: Irish Cream," one more commenter said.

"Ugh still no gingerbread loaf 😭," a disappointed user wrote. "Everything else looks bomb though!"

Despite the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread loaf not being part of this year's menu predictions, the holiday season is our favorite time of year at Starbucks. Many more users shared the same sentiment:

"So excited for all chestnut praline shaken espressos & cranberry bliss bars 🎄🎄🎄🎄," someone wrote.

"Oh hell yess all the chestnut praline offerings," another rejoiced.

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This post has been updated.

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