Valentine’s Day is all about love, but let’s be real: some gifts just don’t say “I adore you” the way they used to! While romancenever goes out of style, it’s easy for certain Valentine’s Day gifts to feel more like a last-minute grabthan a compassionate, heartfelt expression of love.
If you want to impress your special someone this Valentine's Day, it’s time to retire these 7 “outdated” and overdone gifts that scream predictable.
The Glorious Studio / PEXELS
Now don’t get me wrong – heart-shaped jewelry can be super cute, but oftentimes, it can feel a little cheesy and predictable for Valentine’s Day.
Instead, consider your Valentine’s personal interests and search for some jewelry that way. Whether it’s sports, animals, or astrology, you’ll surely be able to find something that suits them more closely.Hassan Ouajbir / PEXELS
Those big teddies – or even just the cheap stuffed animals from the drugstore – are not practical whatsoever and tend to collect dust. Unless you know of a very specific plush that your Valentine's been wanting, it’s okay to skip the stuffed animals.
Picjumbo / PEXELS
While red roses can be a romantic gesture, there are so many other flowers to consider. Roses are simply generic AF and very expected – instead, get to the bottom of what your Valentine’s favorite flower is and run with that! From lilies to mums, you could even create your own bouquet with just a little extra effort.
Ksenia Chernaya / PEXELS
The same idea goes for fake plants. Why invest in a fake plant when a real one can be so much more meaningful? This way, every time your Valentine goes to water the plant you gave them, they’ll be thinking of you. ❤️
Matching t-shirts, mugs, socks, and the like are honestly pretty cringeworthy, unless you’re really into them. Your Valentine will definitely appreciate a unique gift a lot more this year.
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Cheap chocolates are good for a last-minute gift, but if you want your gift to feel special to your Valentine, please take the extra time (and money!) to opt for a fancier box. They’ll look better and taste better.
Jill Wellington / PEXELS
All of this goes to say that anything impersonal makes a cliche and outdated Valentine’s Day gift. You don’t even have to go insanely above and beyond for your date this year – just a little extra consideration will definitely make them feel loved.
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Old habits are hard to give up, but we're fine knowing our fondness for rom-comnovels allows us to explore different genres that blend love stories with perilous journeys, mysteries, and more. For example, western books have been at the top of our minds because we've been dreaming about rugged cowboys and their soft hearts thanks to Cole Hauser's portrayal of Rip Wheeler on Yellowstone.
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Amazon
Ada Hart has sworn off men after rebuilding her life post-divorce and career pivot. Not only is she "Ms. Independent," she's the sought-after new hire at a popular Wyoming ranch. It's a dream come true which is why she wastes no time celebrating at a bar that ends with her scrumptiously kissing a sexy stranger. To her dismay, that sexy stranger's name is Weston Ryder and he's her boss.
Even though Weston's completely okay with it, Ada's trying to avoid him as much as possible. She doesn't have time to fall in love, especially with the person who's the reason her career is about to get the biggest boost ever.
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Kit McBride's life takes on a new meaning when his sister decides she wants her brothers to get married. Her plan involves sharing interesting facts about them in The Matrimonial News in hopes that a few women will fall head over heels in love with them.
In a strange turn of events, Maddy Mooney cosplays as the lonely widow she's been working for after the latter thinks it's a great idea to become a "mail-order bride." Of course it's by accident, but Kit McBride doesn't know this nor is he aware that Maddy's plan of making him fall in love with her will be set in motion the moment she sees him.
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Bowen Barclay and Paisley Ackerly didn't meant to meet each other, but a video game brings them together anyway. Both are single parents, but Bowen's a widow with a failing career while Paisley's keeping secrets about her past. However, they're absolutely smitten with each other and the undeniable attraction that exists between them. The only things that may keep them apart are the publicity that follows Bowen and the things he'll learn about Paisley.
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Rory Jones' heart is crushed when she catches her boyfriend cheating on her, so she escapes to the ranch in Colorado her great aunt left behind. She thinks she'll get over writer's block if she's able to renovate it which would also give her a boost of confidence. But head rancher Wyatt Hensley isn't easily convinced.
For one, he's put everything into maintaining his position and refuses to hand it over. Secondly, he's not impressed by Rory's perceived flightiness. But a plan that works for both of them is develops which begins to smooth over quick first impressions.
It's not like they're going to act on the desires building in their hearts.
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Beth Thatcher hasn't had to worry about much in life because her wealthy background has always shielded her from different things. But her aunt's daring career makes her willing to give up comfortable living in exchange to become a teacher in western Canada. Surprisingly, Beth's father isn't against her decision to leave home which gives her courage that she can do anything she puts her mind to.
However, Coal Valley doesn't roll out the red carpet upon her arrival because the townspeople are now in the debt of the mining company. Also, Beth is faced with challenges when she realizes how poor of an education the children in her class have received and that there's an overall language barrier.
Just when things couldn't get worse, Beth finds her heart torn between someone she's always known and a new face that's always there for her. Will she decide to stick to her resolves or will she quickly leave Coal Valley behind?
Amazon
Amazon
Amelia Carson is a mail-order bride who's wondering what her new husband Dallas Leigh will be like. As her train comes to a stop in Fort Worth, Texas, she immediately perks up when she sees the man who's waiting for her. The problem is that it isn't Dallas, but his brother Houston.
They set off on a long journey to Amelia's new home with Houston resolved to keep things amicable between he and his brother's new wife. But it's hard not to fall in love when you're in close proximity to someone and get to see what motivates and scares them.
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Travis Cooper works at his family's ranch where being loud comes as easy to them as getting their many animals to listen. But a run-in with Shayla Nelson makes him reconsider running his mouth so mouth even though he knows he's her former best friend's ex. Travis also knows that the rivalry between his ex and Shayla isn't fair, seeing that the latter didn't actually do anything wrong.
But a slippery slope exists between them because it seems like chaos follows them everywhere they go. It's just that Shayla can't help but fall for Travis even though she knows she probably shouldn't.
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Grace Rogers puts on her big girl pants and joins the Fred Harvey Company in Juniper, New Mexico to help save her family's farm. Though she wasn't planning on it, she finds herself enamored by Nick Hopkins. He's a cowboy who's marriage and family goals are the only things he cares about. Despite this, he and Grace find themselves in a predicament given her job's strict rules against marriage.
They decide to pursue love on their terms, but don't anticipate that another man has his eyes on Grace. Unfortunately, he'll do whatever it takes to ruin what Nick has with her so he can have her to himself.
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Wyatt Jackson's licking the wounds of failure following his successful run as a solider, he hobbles towards Splendor, Montana to seek refuge in the care of someone he hasn't seen in a while. Then there's Nora Evans and her wandering spirit.
Forced to move from place to place because her family won't claim her, she also finds herself living in the west. In her mind, being single and childless don't seem like a bad idea even if she's always thinking about a certain sexy individual named Wyatt.
He and Nora have every reason to stay away from each other, but it's hard when the heart knows what it wants.
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Walker Thompson's been content working at the Brush Creek Horse Ranch while raising his young son Michael, but he secretly years for Tess Wagner. She's also a single parent who happens to work alongside him during the annual fall Heritage Festival and they've always kept things cordial.
But right when Walker decides he wants to get to know her beyond a friendly level, Tess makes a heartbreaking confession that scares him away. He doesn't want to experience anymore hurt, but he can't help but imagine how sweet life will be if he and Tess give each other a chance.
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Waited 'til the last minute to snag a Valentine's Day gift for your boo? Fret not, my friend! Amazon has a ton of great gift options, and the 15 items I've hand-selected below will all arrive before Feb. 14. You'll find a little something for every kind of Valentine here, from cute kitchen finds to stunning beauty products like makeup and fragrances.
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This mug warmer will keep their morning coffee fresh all day long. Snag it in a V-Day-friendly color to really embrace the holiday!
Amazon
This super buttery blush comes in plenty of different shades to suit your Valentine's skin tone. The texture is simply amazing, plus it's considerably pigmented, so a little goes a long way.
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With notes of creamy vanilla and tonka bean, this is quite literally the sweetest scent to gift this Valentine's Day. The bottle itself is a work of art!
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You can't really go wrong with a classic Stanley tumbler for the person who loves to stay hydrated.
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This adorable Coach bag is more of a splurge when it comes to last-minute Valentine's Day gifts, but there's no doubt it'll make your Valentine feel special as ever. This red color is also ideal for commemorating the holiday!
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Snuggle up with your S.O. in this lavish faux fur blanket! It's a gift for them and for you. Score.
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This French press will help your giftee craft the perfect brew. Plus, it's adorably covered in heart cut-outs!
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In favor of live flowers that'll wilt quickly, snag this cutie little plant plush to remind them of your undying love.
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For the bougie beauty lover, the Shark FlexStyle is a must for locking down the perfect hairstyle!
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These plush slippers feel like luxury during every wear. They'll keep your giftee's feet and toes expertly warm in these cold winter months!
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This set of body cream, body wash, and perfume smells so delicious. The bottles are perfectly travel-sized, so your Valentine can take 'em on the go for a nice refresh.
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This cult-fave lipstick is guaranteed to get good reception from your beauty-loving Valentine!
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This electric kettle is as much a practical kitchen piece as it is a work of art. Think of it as counter eye candy that you and your boo can enjoy together for fresh teas, coffees, and more!
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Build them this adorable Lego rose bouquet to gift alongside any beauty pick, fashion find, or homemade treat to truly impress your S.O.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
For most people, a standard trip to Hawaii involves a visit to the beach and perhaps a stop at the Pearl Harbor museum. However, as a self-proclaimed Disney adult, I like to find a bit of magic wherever I go. Lucky for me, Disney has a resort in Hawaii located less than 20 minutes away from the Honolulu airport. I've never been to Disney's Aulani Resort and Spa before, but after just three nights on the property, I can confidently say I will return at some point in the future. That said, I've decided to make a first timer's guide to Aulani using my first hand experience at the resort that'll hopefully make your trip a breeze when you visit one day.
Disney
A one-bedroom suite
Aulani has 351 rooms for guests to stay in during their visit to the resort ranging from standard rooms and suites to more spacious villas. I stayed in a standard room during my stay and it was lovely. The bed had one of the most comfortable mattresses I've ever slept on and an exquisite bathroom. I wish there was a bit more counter space for all of my makeup, however, that's a tiny complaint in relation to how amazing the room was. My favorite part of the room aside from the mattress was the bathroom. I loved the overhead rainfall shower as it screamed luxury and was a great way to unwind and cool down after a long day at the beach.
Disney
A yoga class on the beach
For starters, there are many classes you can sign up for that are included in your stay such as ukulele classes, animation classes, hula lessons, etc. These classes vary based on the day, but you can check the Aulani app to see if there are any scheduled during your stay. You'll need to visit the community hall to reserve a time slot prior to the start time since space is limited so make sure you do that early on in the day. I took the animation and ukulele classes and they were fun ways to spend the later evening hours.
The resort also offers fitness classes for hotel guests they can participate in and those vary based on the day. You'll want to check the app to see what's going on during your stay whether that's pilates or sunrise yoga.
What really makes Aulani stand out from the competition is the Disney magic inside the resort. At Aulani guests can meet characters from popular Disney films including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Moana, Olu Mel, Angel, Shellie May, Duffy, Max, Stitch, Chip and Dale, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck. The characters aren't the same everyday, but you can check the app to see who will be out starting at 9am the day of your stay.
Make sure you line up early because they get crowded and the lines close quickly. You'll also need to make sure you have a wristband so the character attendants can know you are a registered hotel guest.
Disney
Mo'Olelo fire pit storytelling
There's so much to see and do at Aulani, but one way to get a lay of the land is by completing the Menehune adventure trail. This interactive activity allows people both young and old to explore the resort while they answer trivia and learn about the property. Be sure to look up as you walk to see the different flowers and murals on the walls. You'll need to pick up a tablet from the community hall in order to participate and it's included in your stay.
At night you'll want to head over to the firepit located by the beach for a storytelling experience conducted by Uncle. Each night you'll be able to hear traditional Hawaiian stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. You'll want to check the app for accurate times but usually there are showtimes at 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm, and 8pm.
Disney
KA WA‘A – A Lū‘au on Oʻahu
You'll find lots of live music and dancing at Aulani during your stay. Enjoy local musicians playing traditional Hawaiian tunes and pop classics or you may catch Uncle or Auntie Cass walking around playing the ukulele with some hula dancers by their side.
During my trip, I saw Uncle and Auntie Cass walking around the resort at various times of the day and they stopped at different locations to entertain the guests in the vicinity. There was also a live-action Moana show during one of the days of my stay which was adorable and brought theme park quality entertainment to the resort.
Kids ages 4 to 12 can enjoy a variety of activities at Aunty's Beach House during their stay at Aulani. Most of the activities are complimentary, however, there are some paid experiences that you can sign up for if you'd like.
Disney
Kula Wai at Lanwai
You can head on down to the beach to take a dip in the ocean or simply watch the waves crash onto the shore. Hotel guests can check out complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas and boogie boards to use while they are there or bring their own.There's also the chance to rent out snorkel gear and paddleboards if that's something you're interested in exploring during your stay. Be sure to head over to the beach during sunset to catch the most picturesque view.
Participate in a paid activity
While there are a handful of included activities, there are also paid activities you can sign up for. These vary based on the day but some of the most popular include making your own ears, hair braiding, painting, scuba diving lessons, and fish feeding opportunities.
Although Aulani is a resort, the property is also home to a spa and fitness center. At Laniwai, you'll be able to book an appointment for a spa treatment of your choosing from massages to manicures and hair styling sessions. These come at an additional cost, but treatments come with access to the Kula Wai which has other relaxing amenities including heated pools, rainfall showers, whirlpools, and cold plunges.
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‘AMA‘AMA Contemporary Island Cooking
There is no shortage of food options while visiting Aulani from quick service locations to sit down restaurants, bars, and character dining. I went to almost all of the dining locations during my stay aside from Ama Ama.
On select night's each week guests can participate in a traditional Hawaiian luau, called the Ka Wa'A Luau, on the lawn of the resort. With live music, hula dancing, and singing, guests are transported into the culture right in front of their eyes. I absolutely loved the luau from the food to the show. It was definitely more of a spectacle with incredible storytelling, lots of fire, and even some special Disney friends.
For more casual meals, there are more quick-service dining options such as Ulu Cafe
Off The Hook, The Olelo Room, and Mama's Snack Stop. Ulu Cafe had delicious breakfast flatbreads and noodle bowls – plus you don't want to forget to try the Olu Mel cupcake. For dessert, be sure to stop by Papalua Shave Ice and Little Opihi to grab the viral rainbow shaved ice and classic Dole Whip.
If you're interested in meeting characters as you eat, Makahiki has a character dining meal every morning. The three-course meal allows guests to enjoy traditional Hawaiian dishes while they meet some special characters.
Disney
Ka Maka Grotto
In terms of price, Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa is pricey. Frankly, it's more expensive than a standard room at some deluxe hotels at Walt Disney World. The standard room rate starts at $999 per night. While you don't need to spend a week at the resort, even three or four nights will run you between $3,000-$4,000. Although you do get access to the pool area and the character meet and greets, that price doesn't include food and drinks or booked excursions — all of that is separate.
Disney
A one-bedroom suite
I can only speak from experience but I'd say four days is the perfect amount of time to stay at Aulani. During that time period, you'll be able to relax, enjoy the amenities and see different characters without having to rush. If you plan on staying longer in Hawaii, there are other hotels you can stay at and sights to see which you can find more about below.
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Waikolohe Stream
No, there are no rides at Aulani since it's only a resort and not a theme park. While there are character sightings at the resort, there are no rides or attractions for hotel guests to experience during their stay.
Disney
Wailana Pool
Yes, non-guests can go to Aulani, however, they won't be able to participate in the character meet and greets, included activities, or swim in the lazy river or pools. A majority of non-resort guests visit the property to eat at some of the resort's top-tier dining options.
The Royal Hawaiian
While I loved my time at Aulani, I decided to venture to other parts of Oahu and checked out some other gorgeous properties.
As a pink enthusiast, The Royal Hawaiian is a historic hotel that's all pink. From pink buildings to pink pancakes at breakfast, you'll be immersed in a chic and sophisticated pink palace. Located only steps away from the Royal Hawaiian Center, it's the perfect spot if you're looking to get a feel for Waikiki. My favorite part of my stay at the hotel was the hospitality — all of the staff were so friendly from the front desk workers to the valet employees.
In terms of food, I mentioned above that Aulani had a luau but there's also one at The Royal Hawaiian that's worth checking out. Aha'aina takes place steps away from the beach and you can listen to traditional Hawaiian stories while being entertained by hula dancers, singers, and fire knife dancers.
Outrigger Reef - Waikiki Beach
I also spent a few days at Outrigger Reef - Waikiki Beach which was right on the beach. When I tell you that my room was directly on top of the water I mean it — I was essentially sleeping on top of the waves. The rooms were chic, clean, and modern, but where the property really stood out was the location. It's right next to the shopping district and steps away from the beach. I took advantage of the on-site dining locations such as Monkeypod Kitchen which was absolutely delicious. Not only did it have a breathtaking view of the beach, but the flatbread was unlike anything I've ever had. Plus, I had a reservation at Merriman's Honolulu which was a 10 minute drive from the hotel and I was blown away. The property was so close to everything I wanted to check out during my stay while still providing a feeling of luxury.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Easteris over, and now, you have more leftover pastelcandy than you know what to do with! Don't stash it in your cabinet until Halloween (trick or treaters don't deserve that). Instead, give your Easter candy new life with these colorful leftover Easter candy recipes. You'll be surprised at how far Easter M&M's and Cadbury chocolate eggs can go!
Brit + Co
This rocky road-inspired candy bar made with creme eggs is as colorful, gooey, chocolatey, and creamy as they come. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
You can use any Easter candy you want to create this treat. Just make sure it's chocolate on chocolate on chocolate. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Turn regular ol' s'mores into brightly-colored dessert sandwiches with chocolate-dipped graham crackers, and a pastel gooey marshmallow center – no campfire necessary. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Who needs chips and queso when you have leftover Easter candy recipes that include apples, caramel, and Heath bars? Pile on a crumbled Heath Bar and some walnuts over the top of these dessert nachos and instantly ease that sweet tooth. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
After all the Easter festivities, you deserve a drink. This is the perfect libation that uses leftover Easter candy: a smooth and sweet combination of vanilla vodka, milk of your choice, and the best part of a Cadbury Egg (the insides, obviously)! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Creations like these pastries make for the best leftover Easter candy recipes. Stuff these pastry pockets full of Cadbury eggs, and boom, you've got dessert. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
This decadent entertaining dessert would also be excellent for an Easter brunch! (via Brit + Co)
A Zesty Bite
This cookie recipe is all about cleaning out your candy jar. Sure, it calls for specific candies like M&M's and Kit Kat bars, but you can throw in whatever chocolate-based candy you have on hand. Trust us: your cookie will come out equally delicious. (via A Zesty Bite)
Ingredients:
(via BRACH's)
Melanie Makes
Finally, a socially-acceptable way to eat jelly beans for breakfast! If you don't have a donut pan handy, that's okay. You can also make jelly bean muffins! (via Melanie Makes)
Tastes Better from Scratch
Chocolate lovers will go wild for these Easter-y cookies. For starters, the cookie base is chocolate. What's even better is the Cadbury eggs are five times as big as chocolate chips. That's more chocolate per inch of cookie! (via Tastes Better from Scratch)
Crazy for Crust
Put your leftover pie crust and leftover Easter candy to good use with this pie. Sure, this is more like a giant cookie in the shape of a pie, but we're still in heaven. (via Crazy for Crust)
A Pumpkin & A Princess
Why should peppermint bark get all the glory? Jelly beans liven up white chocolate bark with spring colors in this delish treat. Bonus: this leftover Easter candy recipe only requires *three* ingredients. (via A Pumpkin & A Princess)
Something Swanky
Dress up puppy chow for some bunny in your life. Though this recipe needs only four ingredients, feel free to add more candy or your favorite nuts to this sweet, crunchy snack mix. (via Something Swanky)
The Domestic Rebel
It's a fact: food becomes irresistible when it's brightly colored and pretty — also if it's topped with sugar coated marshmallows! Okay, so that might not be a statistic yet, but based on these Peeps candy bars, we can vouch for it. (via The Domestic Rebel)
Dessert Now Dinner Later
This leftover Easter candy dessert is a work of art, both in your mouth and to the naked eye. It's an adorable bird's nest that you can eat! Chocolate, peanut butter, and pretzels are a dream team that don't get enough credit. (via Dessert Now Dinner Later)
How Sweet Eats
Need s'more s'mores? We got you with this gooey, chocolatey, peanut buttery dip, topped with golden brown leftover Peeps. Grab a graham cracker, and dig in. (via How Sweet Eats)
Leelalicious
This delicious brownie recipe is filled with all your favorite Easter candy (or whatever candy you happen to have on hand). Swap out butter for coconut oil for a slightly healthier twist. By that logic, we'll have two, please. (via Leelalicious)
Deliciously Sprinkled
You could always hide your leftover Easter candy, or you can just hide them inside these delicious brownie bites! (via Deliciously Sprinkled)
Ingredients:
Directions:
(via BRACH's)
Delightful E Made
This Rice Krispies cake doubles as a colorful center piece for your Easter table spread. Melt down some Peeps and mix with the famed cereal. If you're using Peeps of varying colors, melt each color down separately, and mix cereal in portions for a tie-dye effect. (via Delightful E Made)
Two Sisters Crafting
Put a spin on sweet and salty popcorn with a butter marshmallow sauce. It's like a more indulgent version of kettle corn that coats your popcorn in a sticky, sweet, and buttery sauce. Add Easter M&M's and candy-coated chocolate eggs to make this the perfect post-Easter snack! (via Two Sisters Crafting)
Kirbie's Cravings
This single serving of cake is just the emergency sweet treat you keep on-hand when you need a little “me time." Just toss in a handful of Easter M&M's into a mug along with flour, milk, and baking powder. Voila! Your sweet tooth is satisfied in under five minutes using ingredients you already had in your pantry. (via Kirbie's Cravings)
Averie Cooks
This leftover Easter candy recipe looks too good to be true! We love these crunchy homemade candy bars topped with our favorite twin chocolate wafer bars. (via Averie Cooks)
Domestic Superhero
Creamy cheesecake + crunchy Twix Bars = the ultimate Easter dessert. Drizzle the top with chocolate and caramel right before serving to complete this masterpiece. (via Domestic Superhero)
If you grew up loving cookie cakes, you'll love using your leftover Easter candy to make your own homemade version! You'll love the warm and tantalizing taste of peanut butter, but it's the mini chocolate eggs that really make this recipe shine. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)
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This post has been updated with additional reporting by Gabi Conti and Meredith Holser.
