DIY Candy Land: 20 Homemade Candy Recipes

‘Round these parts, we’re pretty keen on candy. Cotton candy, Halloween candy, candy canes, candy corn. All the candy. Here we’ve rounded up 20 of the best DIY candy hacks for you make at home. Welcome to Candy Land.

1. Pomegranate Gumpdrops: The gumdrop has an old world way about it, and this from-scratch version capitalizes on that. So much whimsy, so much nostalgia, so much sugar. (via The View From Great Island)

2. : The Almond Joy is Mounds’ sophisticated older sister. This recipe lets you have a hand in the sophistication. Plus, isn’t coconut a health food now? Better make a double batch. You know, for health ;) (via )

3. Candied Citrus Peel: These sweet slivers of candied citrus peel make for a great holiday or hostess gift. You can also use these yummy peels as sugar cookie trimmings, cupcake toppings, or mix-ins for your morning granola bowl. (via Heather Bullard)

4. Peppermint Patties: We are swooning over this vegan and gluten-free York Peppermint Pattie hack. So creamy, so dreamy. (via Oh She Glows)

5. Sparkling White Chocolate Lemon Truffles: Dress up your candy in winter white with these sparkling white chocolate and lemon truffles. So fresh and bright and unexpected! (via How Sweet It is)

6. Chocolate Crunch Hearts: What’s sweeter than a Crunch Bar? How about a homemade crunch heart? Make these for your lover — or hoard them all to yourself. (via Kirbie Cravings)

7. Root Beer Float Truffles: One of the best parts about making your own candy is that there are no limits. Here’s something you can’t find in the stores — root beer floats packed nice and neatly into sweet little bite-sized truffles. (via Food Fanatic)

8. Three-Step Chocolate Marshmallow Cups: Homemade marshmallows are all the rage right now, but we’re one-upping them with this recipe. Because the only thing that you can do to a marshmallow to make it even better is to encase it in chocolate. (via A Subtle Revlery)

9. Funfetti Cake Batter Fudge: Everything is better with a little confetti — fudge included. Make your day a little brighter with these Funfetti cake batter fudge bites. (via Sweet 2 Eat Baking)

10. Peanut Butter Cups: The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup is the High Priestess of Halloween candy hauls. Harness its power in the comfort of your own kitchen with this DIY hack. (via The Kitchn)

11. Apple Cider Caramels: These little guys are traditional caramels that have been just a small bit dressed up with apple cider and sea salt. Get your candy thermometer ready for this recipe! (via Smitten Kitchen)

12. No Bake Snickers Bars: The chocolate, peanut, nougat, and caramel combination is one that never goes out of style. Skip the Snickers King Size for a big hunk of this homemade layered treat. (via Sweet Society)

13. DIY Candy Canes: Feeling pretty capable this holiday season? Tackle this recipe for homemade candy canes, but beware! This recipe is not for the faint of heart. (via The Knead for Speed)

14. Three Ingredient Butterfinger Bars: These Butterfingers are made from scratch using just three ingredients. For our next trick, we walk on water. (via Bless This Mess)

15. Salted Caramel Swirl Marshmallows: These little bites are a great holiday treat. And with their sweet swirls of salted caramel, they could really jazz up your next hot cocoa or batch of Rice Krispies Treats. (via Erika Rax)

16. Almond Brittle With Sea Salt: Peanut brittle is an old-timey holiday favorite. This toasted almond and sea salt version is nostalgic and refined. (via Food52)

17. Paleo Tootsie Rolls: Tootsie Rolls can be a polarizing candy — people tend to have strong opinions about them. Here, we are Team Tootsie, and we love this allergen-free Paleo hack on our old favorite chewy chocolates. (via Brittany Angell)

18. Whiskey Sriracha Candy: Look! All of your favorite food vices, packed into tiny little sugary hearts. What could go wrong? These quirky treats are sure to please your adventurous side. (via Olives for Dinner)

19. DIY Candy Bars: Twix, Reese’s, and Almond Joy: Here we show you ways to create your three of your favorite treats, including Twix, Reese’s Cups, and Snickers. What’s the best part? You can make each with four ingredients or fewer. Magic. (via Brit+Co)

20. Guinness Pretzel Truffles: Guinness-fortified chocolate truffles rolled in pretzel pieces? Yes, please. And duh. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

What’s your favorite candy? And what’s your position on The Great Tootsie Roll Debate? Talk to us in the comments, or say hi on Twitter.

If you’re anything like us, you awake on Christmas morning with an extra spring in your step, ready to see what goodies under the tree bare your name (and because you must watch A Christmas Story for the 500th time). You ignore the after-effects of your Christmas Eve cookiesbinge and the one-too-many cocktails because, well, it’s Christmas. But just in case you need a little extra present-opening gusto, we’ve rounded up some iconic Christmas breakfast ideas so decadent and delicious, Santa is going to wish he delivered your gifts on Christmas morning.

Real Foot Dietitians

Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole

This veggie-filled casserole, made with homemade breakfast sausage, sweet potatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and spinach, will kick off the holiday on a healthy start. It reheats well too so you can make it the night before! (via Real Food Dietitians)

Clean Cuisine

Easy Crepe Recipe

Go easy on yourself Christmas morning with this delicious recipe that can be whipped up in minutes! Add your favorite toppings and prepare the night before! (via Clean Cuisine)

Crowded Kitchen

Chocolate Cherry Baked Oats

This vegan and gluten free breakfast is also nut-free, easy to make, and can be served cold or warm.

Vikalinka

Millet Porridge With Honey Glazed Plums

Try something totally unique with this delicious millet porridge with honey glazed plums. (via Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Build Your Own Pancake Board

This is a fun idea for everyone of all ages and relieves you of the heavy lifting. (via Completely Delicious)

The Original Dish

Cranberry Prosciutto Ricotta Toast

So much flavor in one bite, your crew will love this tasty yet simple recipe. (via The Original Dish)

Hello Little Home

Mexican Baked Eggs

Spice things up with this Shakshuka-style dish. (via Hello Little Home)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Panettone Bread Pudding

If you like things on the sweet side, this holiday breakfast is for you. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Vanilla and Bean

Spinach Ricotta Pie With Phyllo Crust

Surprise your morning crew with a rich and creamy ricotta cheese, salty parmesan cheese, spinach, and eggs, with a touch of nutmeg and pepper flakes. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Culinary Hill

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Meat lovers will swoon over this rich bennie dish. (via Culinary Hill)

Woman Scribbles

Almond Star Bread

This bread is tastes as good as it looks. (via Woman Scribbles)

Eggnog French Toast

The key to mastering this eggnog-infused French toast for Christmas breakfast is using thick-cut brioche bread. Each slice eagerly soaks up the batter, creating a very succulent bite. Top everything off with caramelized oranges and a generous drizzle of toffee sauce for sweetness! (via Brit + Co.)

Bread Pudding

Even if bread pudding is reserved only for dessert, we'll still be eating it on Christmas morning. This recipe in particular yields a super sweet batch for the whole fam! (via Brit + Co.)

Cranberry Bliss Bars

No need to make a Starbucks run – this Christmas breakfast recipe is for about 8 servings, and each bar is even better with a hot cup of coffee. (via Brit + Co.)

Feta Fried Eggs

These fried eggs get their flavor from chili oil and feta cheese, but you can make them even more of a fit for Christmas breakfast by serving them with green avocado and red salsa! (via Brit + Co.)

Blood Orange Banana Smoothie

For the holidays, switch up the typical banana-berry combo with this citrusy smoothie, which is pink from blood orange juice and protein-rich from Greek yogurt. Add a garnish of rosemary for a little Christmas-y flavor. (via Brit + Co.)

Pumpkin Rolls

Even though PSL season is old news, it doesn't mean that pumpkin-infused foods aren't still delicious AF! These pumpkin rolls get baked in a handful of warm spices then drenched in icing for a sweet Christmas breakfast option. (via Brit + Co.)

Lemon Loaf

This recipe is another play on one of Starbucks' fan-favorite snacks, the Lemon Loaf. The tangy flavors will definitely help you wake up on the big day. (via Brit + Co.)

Rainbow Toast

You can try a trendybutter board or a spread of colorful toasts like green avocado and cucumber and raspberry and pomegranate for a colorful Christmas breakfast. (via Brit + Co.)

Vegan Butter Board

We love butter boards (after all, what's not to love?) but the mainstream butter board recipes you'll find on TikTok aren't usually vegan. Follow this plant-based Christmas breakfast recipe instead! (via Brit + Co.)

Gluten-Free Frittata

This light and fluffy frittata is packed with the classics and is sure to fill you up while also keeping you light on your feet this holiday season. (via Brit + Co.)

Baked French Toast

If you’re looking to host your friends and family forbrunch with minimal effort, consider this baked French toast. Throw it together in minutes, toss it in the oven, and use your extra free time to whip up a killer pitcher of Christmas cocktails. (via Brit + Co.)

Jacques Torres’ Famous Hot Chocolate

Chocolatier Jacques Torres' recipe for hot chocolate is a must-try. Serve these decadent drinks alongside one of his perfect chocolate chip cookies. It's sure to become a favorite of all ages. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry Pancake

Most of us have some experience of growing up with a favorite pancake recipe, and if fresh fruit is involved, this dish is all the better. The best fruit on pancakes? We're torn between bananas and strawberries. Here, you can have both. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry & Cream Croissant French Toast

We're pretty sure croissants are one of the best things France ever gave us. This take on the French pastry turns your go-to croissants into French toast — with plenty of strawberries, cream, and jam to boot. (via Brit + Co.)

4-Ingredient (Gluten-free) Zucchini Pancakes

These easy, savory, veg-based pancakes are healthy, celiac-friendly and delicious. (via Brit + Co.)

Crepes with Chocolate Hazelnut Spread and Banana

Hannah Sunderani's Two Spoons cookbooknot only has this French chocolate-hazelnut crepe recipe, but tons of other breakfasts you can whip up to feel like you're living the French girl dream. (via Brit + Co.)

Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Egg Boat

We love these baked egg boats for so many reasons. They are delicious, they reheat well, are easy to slice, and they’re just beautiful! But not too beautiful to eat – you’ll devour them. (via Brit + Co.)

Red Velvet Heart Waffles

Our red velvet brunch waffles also make for a sweet Christmas breakfast treat! If you have a Christmas-themed waffle maker, use that instead for the vibes. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry Fig Crepes

A skinny pancake topped with your favorite preserves and a sprinkling of confectioners sugar... need we say more? (via For the Love of the South)

Zucchini Bread Pancakes

Zucchini bread and pancakes are two of our most favorite things. Now, we can enjoy them together! ‘Nuff said. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Strawberry Lemon Crescent Ring

This pick may be classified as a dessert, but you can 1000% make this recipe for Christmas breakfast! It's reminiscent of strawberry lemonade, so it'll taste light and refreshing. (via Averie Cooks)

Blueberry Yogurt Multigrain Pancakes

Sure, there are loads of butter and full-fat yogurt in this recipe, but these pancakes are also multigrain – so they’re healthy, right?! (via Smitten Kitchen)

Multigrain Flax Waffles

These waffles just look like Christmas with their bright red pomegranate seeds and generous dollops of yogurt. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Strawberry-Rhubarb Stuffed French Toast

Who doesn't love stuffed French toast? Once you taste the scrumptiousness of this recipe, you'll want to make it beyond Christmas breakfast for years to come. (via Completely Delicious)

Everything Cheesy Potato and Egg Breakfast Casserole

This make-ahead Christmas breakfast recipe is sprinkled with everything bagel spice and fresh herbs. Oh, what fun! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Potato, Egg and Bacon Breakfast Skillet

This delicious one-pan breakfast recipe features all the best breakfast foods – potatoes, eggs, bacon and onions. (via Cozy Cravings)

Slow Cooker Make-Ahead Sausage and Mushroom Scrambled Eggs

We’re all for stick-to-the-ribs oatmeal and can’t wait to try this rich, eggy alternative. (via Betty Crocker)

Goat Cheese & Leek Quiche

Try serving up a warm quiche for the best Christmas breakfast that'll suit a morning crowd. (via Live Eat Learn)

Fluffy Glazed Vegan Pumpkin Donuts

Made with tons of homemade pumpkin spice and a dreamy cinnamon glaze, these vegan baked donuts are a gift for the tastebuds! (via Munching with Mariyah)

Easy and Healthy Egg Cups

So easy for kids and adults to eat, these healthy egg cups are a versatile and gluten-free Christmas breakfast offering. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Basic Quiche

Few breakfasts are as hearty and delicious as a cheesy quiche. Add some spinach and onion, and you’ve got a five-star Christmas breakfast. (via Real Simple)

Image via Shutterstock

Multigrain Maple Mini Muffins

There’s something about bite-size holiday treats that we just love. And when it comes to these hearty (yet sweet) mini muffins, we just can’t get enough. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Homemade Bagels

You can make these sourdough bagels now, and freeze them until you're ready to eat on Christmas morning. Play with some seasonal toppings, like pumpkin spice or cinnamon. (via Calico & Twine)

Whole-Grain Blueberry Muffins

These aren’t your typical blueberry muffins. Packed with whole grain flour, rolled oats, and flaxseed, they’ll keep you full all morning long. (via Real Simple)

Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

These easy vegan cinnamon rolls are sweet, fluffy, and totally plant-based. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Homemade Breakfast Sausage

You can make these meaty bites ahead of time and freeze them for Christmas morning. This recipe adds a little maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. (via The Endless Meal)

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin and cinnamon are two flavors synonymous with the colder months. Whip up a batch of these confections and let yourself indulge a little! (via Smitten Kitchen)

Creamy Southern Cheese Grits

A good-old southern Christmas breakfast almost always includes cheese grits. They're easy to make and are a satisfying way to fill everyone's bellies. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Biscuits & Gravy

Flaky buttermilk biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy is the ultimate Christmas comfort food. (via Culinary Hill)

Cranberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal

With a combo of fresh cranberries, pecans, and maple syrup, this warm dish tastes exactly like the holidays. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Lavender Oatmeal Squares

While these may not be enough food to serve as a main course on Christmas morning, they’ll be perfect to munch on as you sip your coffee by the Christmas tree. (via Tartelette Blog)

Simple Breakfast Casserole

This hash brown casserole has fluffy eggs, bell peppers, tender sausage, and of course loads of cheese – yum! (via Salt & Lavender)

Banana Granola

Making granola from scratch isn’t as difficult as it sounds, thanks to this recipe. Stir in your favorite Greek yogurt and top with extra fruit for a filling meal. (via Green Kitchen Stories)

Banana Nut Bread

You could bake this ahead of time to minimize your to-dos on Christmas morning, or opt to eat straight from the oven with a smear of going-to-melt butter. (via For the Love of the South)

The Ultimate Sticky Buns

If they’re branded as "The Ultimate," they must be good. Embrace some Southern tradition with this uber-decadent stinky bun dish! (via Bon Appetit)

Christmas Granola

Because no Christmas breakfast would be complete without some eponymous granola! (via Green Kitchen Stories)

Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

What do you get when you mix pumpkin, bananas and cinnamon? Yummy pumpkin banana bread bars, that's what. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Is it bread, or is it cake? Whatever you decide, expect a tender, fluffy, and bright lemon bread that is sweet and delicious. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Eggnog Breakfast Bread Pudding

This make-ahead recipe is equal parts breakfast and dessert. The best part? You can make it the night before, so all you have to do ion Christmas morning is throw it in the oven. (via The Kitchn)

Jalapeño-Cheddar Scones

Spice up your Christmas breakfast with jalapeño cheddar scones! If you're feeling it, add a scoop of scrambled eggs to turn them into artisanal egg and cheese sandwiches — with a kick. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Croissants: Three Ways

Because one way would be boring. Add more flavor to a traditional croissant with blood oranges, spinach and feta filling, or ham and cheese. These make for an extra-fancy Christmas breakfast platter. (via Adventures in Cooking)

Spelt & Muesli Scones

These are hearty and healthy scones that you can pair with just about anything, be it a side of scrambled eggs or your favorite jam. (via Green Kitchen Stories)

Monkey Bread

This recipe is an absolute classic when it comes to Christmas breakfast. We've always had it in a bundt cake pan, but you can use any vessel you'd like. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Image via Shutterstock

Breakfast Burritos

Turn your Christmas breakfast into brunch with these hearty burritos complete with protein, dairy, and lots of veggies and herbs. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Eggnog Custard Tart

This delicious and beautiful tart is made with a crunchy gingersnap cookie crust topped with boozy eggnog custard. Garnish it with homemade gingerbread cookies, sugared cranberries, and fresh rosemary for an indulgent Christmas breakfast or dessert. (via Barley & Sage)

Image via Shutterstock

Breakfast Panini

Paninis aren’t just reserved for lunchtime. Swap your deli meat for some eggs, and you’ve got a tastefully toasted breakfast fare. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Tomato Tart

A puff pastry meets pizza that we will happily eat for breakfast any day. Prepare as is or top with scrambled egg whites for extra (and light) protein. (via Joy the Baker)

Two Peas and Their Pod

Lemon Zucchini Bread

No one will pass up this lemony breakfast that tastes like dessert! (via Two Peas and Their Pod)

The Fast Recipe

Easy Spam Eggs and Rice

Try an easy Hawaiian-inspired breakfast for your holiday meal. (via The Fast Recipe)

Bowl of Delicious

Make Ahead Breakfast Pie With Lattice Bacon Crust

Sleep in and still impress your guests! (via Bowl of Delicious)

Barley and Sage

Coffee Donuts

Forget coffee *and* donuts. Make coffee donuts for a perky morning! (via Barley and Sage)

Shutterstock

Spicy Chai Latte

Upgrade your morning cup o’ joe with a homemade chai latte. The spices alone — cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg — will put you in the Christmas spirit. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Spiked Orange Hot Chocolate

Try making this spiked hot chocolate recipe for the adults while the kids are playing after Christmas breakfast. Everyone will be in good spirits when it's time to open presents. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Sugar Cookie Martini

Christmas breakfast won't be complete without this sugar cookie martini! Combine Bailey's Irish Cream with a little vanilla vodka and other yummy ingredients to make this delicious martini that rivals Christmas cookies. (via Mixop)

Check out our online baking classes for more easy Christmas meal inspiration and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams and Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Completely Delicious

You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

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

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!

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

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.