Easy Peppermint Sandwich Cookies to Make at Home

Tessa Huff
Dec 30, 2016

Sweet, refreshing and literally sandwiched by chocolate, these peppermint cookies are the perfect way to keep feeling merry all winter long. Similar to store-bought Oreo cookies with those unmistakable creamy centers, this DIY recipe is simple to whip up and packs in about 10-times the flavor! The homemade chocolate shortbread is crisp yet tender, while the peppermint filling is extra creamy with the addition of melted white chocolate. Seriously, chocolate and mint have never tasted so good together. So while the days are still short and gloomy and with the holidays behind us, keep the festive spirit alive as we roll into the new year by making a batch (or two) of these peppermint chocolate sandwich cookies.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar

The dough is quite crumbly, but try not to over-mix it. It is done mixing when you can squeeze the dough together and it stays intact. If at any point the dough seems too soft or difficult to roll out, chill in the refrigerator until firm.

  1. Sift together the flour, cocoa, salt and baking soda. Set aside.
  2. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth. Add in the sugar and mix until light and fluffy, about three minutes.
  3. In two batches with the mixer on low, add in the dry ingredients. Continue to mix until the dough begins to clump and come together. Do not over-mix.
  4. Divide the dough in half and form into two, flat discs. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thick between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cut out the cookies and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
  5. Place the cutout cookies on the baking sheet in the refrigerator to chill for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, pre-heat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. After the cookies have chilled, bake for 15-18 minutes. Let rest on the cookie sheet for about five minutes, then allow cookies to completely cool on a wire rack.

For the Filling:

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  • 1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted
  • 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
  • 4 Tablespoons peppermint candies, finely crushed

Cookies may be stored in an air-tight container at room temperature for a few days. Tall glass of cold milk is optional.

  1. Using an electric mixer, beat together the butter and shortening until smooth.
  2. Add in the sugar, melted white chocolate and peppermint extract. Mix on low until incorporated, then turn the speed up to medium-high. Mix until light and fluffy.
  3. Add in the crushed peppermint candies and mix until combined.
  4. Divide the cooled cookies into pairs.
  5. Pipe or spread on the filling on half of the cookies. Sandwich them together with the remaining half.

What are your favorite dessert hacks to make at home? Be sure to tag your recipes on Instagram using the hashtag #iamcreative and check out our Easy Christmas Cookies for more inspo!

3 Irresistible International Cookie Recipes To Spice Up This Cozy Season

When the new cookbook Crumbs: Cookies & Sweets from Around the World by food writer, recipe developer, and self-confessed baking obsessive Ben Mims arrived in my mailbox, I was instantly smitten. Not only because I LOVE fresh-baked cookies in all varieties, but because this book is stunning, from the elegant cover to the beautiful photography by Simon Bajada inside. My mom was visiting and she was obsessed too, but I couldn't bring myself to part with it! It's also a great holiday gift for the baker in your life — or a great gift to give yourself. 😉 Regardless, here's Ben's best baking tips — plus three international cookie recipes you can bake right now!

Swirled Pig's Ears Cookies (Vietnam)

Simon Bajada

Bake your way around the world with Crumbs's 300 irresistible cookie recipes from nearly 100 countries, from classic chocolate chip cookies to date-filled maamoul, and almond macaroons to cardamom biscuits, Italian waffle cookies, and Okinawan brown sugar shortbread.

Simon Bajada

"Cookies are condensed pieces of excess," says Ben. "They allow everyone to feel extravagant and rich for a second. I think that’s a universal appeal for everyone. They bring joy while eating them, no matter how you feel the rest of the time. And sharing in that joy is what cookies do best; they allow you to physically give out happiness in a few bites."

He's sharing an excerpt of three cookie recipes below!

Simon Bajada

Chocolate-Glazed Polish Gingerbread (Poland)

Adapted from Crumbsby Ben Mims

Preparation time: 50 minutes, plus cooling and setting time

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Makes: 30 cookies

INGREDIENTS

For the cookies:

  • 6 tablespoons (125 g) honey ¼ cup (50 g) white US granulated (UK caster) sugar
  • 2½ tablespoons (35 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2¼ cups (315 g) all-purpose (plain) flour, plus more for dusting
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt

For the chocolate glaze:

  • 1½ cups (200 g) powdered (icing) sugar
  • 1/3 cup (30 g) natural cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons whole milk, plus more if needed

DIRECTIONS

  1. Make the cookies: Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Pour the honey into a small frying pan and place over medium-high heat until the honey starts to bubble around the edges and is loose. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the white US granulated (UK caster) sugar, butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and cardamom until the sugar dissolves. Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in the sour cream until smooth, then add the flour and sprinkle over the baking soda (bicarb) and salt. Fold the mixture with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together and there are no dry pockets of flour remaining.
  4. Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the dough to ½ inch (13 mm) thick. Using a 2½- to 3-inch (6.5 to 7.5 cm) round or heart-shaped cutter, cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Reroll the scraps to cut out more cookies.
  5. Bake until the cookies are risen, golden brown at the edges, and give just slightly when pressed on top, 15-20 minutes, switching racks and rotating the baking sheets front to back halfway through. The cookies will firm up considerably upon cooling so err on the side of underbaking them.
  6. Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks. Let the cookies cool on the pans for 1 minute, then transfer them to the racks to cool completely.
  7. Make the chocolate glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered (icing) sugar and cocoa. Add the vanilla and 2 tablespoons of the milk and stir until a thick paste forms. Add another 1 tablespoons milk and stir until the glaze is pourable and smooth but not too runny. Add more milk if needed to reach the consistency you want.
  8. Balance a cookie on the tines of a fork and position it over the bowl of glaze. Use a spoon in your other hand to spoon glaze over the cookie, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl. Once the glaze stops dripping, return the cookies to a rack or a baking sheet. Repeat glazing the remaining cookies. Let the glaze dry until set before serving.

Simon Bajada

Rainbow Sprinkles-Covered Cookies (Mexico)

Adapted from Crumbsby Ben Mims

Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus 1 hour chilling time

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Makes: About 36 cookies

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups (280 g) all-purpose (plain) flour
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¾ cup (150 g) white US granulated (UK caster) sugar
  • ½ cup (115 g) cold-rendered leaf lard or vegetable shortening, softened
  • 4 tablespoons (2 oz/55 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, preferably Mexican
  • 2 eggs, 1 whole and 1 separated
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ½ cup (120 g) rainbow-colored nonpareils (hundreds & thousands) or small dragées

DIRECTIONS

  • Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, with a hand mixer, combine the sugar, lard, butter, and vanilla and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Add the whole egg, beat until smooth, then add the egg yolk to the bowl, beating until smooth. Add the flour mixture to the bowl and stir until a dough forms and there are no dry patches of flour remaining. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (cling film) and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm.
  • Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Using a 2½-inch (6.5 cm) round cutter, cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Reroll the dough and cut out more cookies. Place the baking sheets in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm the dough rounds.
  • Meanwhile, make an egg wash by whisking the remaining egg white with the water until smooth. Place the nonpareils in a shallow dish or large plate.
  • Using a pastry brush, brush some of the egg wash over the top of a dough round and place the round, brushed-side down, in the nonpareils to completely encrust that side. Invert the cookie and return it to its spot on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough rounds.
  • Bake until light golden brown at the edges and just set in the center, 12-15 minutes, switching racks and rotating the baking sheets front to back halfway through.
  • Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks. Let the cookies cool on the pans for 1 minute, then transfer them to the racks to cool completely.

Simon Bajada

Flower Shaped Butter Cookies (Italy)

Adapted from Crumbsby Ben Mims

Preparation time: 45 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Makes: About 24 cookies

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 cup (140 g) all-purpose (plain) flour
  • ¾ cup (105 g) potato starch or cornstarch (cornflour)
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 hard-boiled egg yolks
  • 1 stick (4 oz/115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (65 g) powdered (icing) sugar, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or almond extract
  • Finely grated zest of 1 lemon

DIRECTIONS

  1. Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, potato starch, and salt. Place a fine sieve over a large bowl and use a silicone spatula to press the hard-boiled egg yolks through the sieve, scraping the back of the sieve to ensure you get all the egg yolk. Add the butter and sugar, and beat on medium speed with a hand mixer until pale and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Beat in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. Add the dry ingredients and stir until the dough forms and there are no dry patches of flour remaining. Gather the dough into a ball.
  3. Working on a lightly floured work surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin to ⅜ inch (1 cm) thick. Using a 2½-inch (6.5 cm) flower-shaped cutter, cut out shapes of dough. Reroll the scraps to cut out more cookies. Transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheets, spaced 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Using the end of a narrow-handled wooden spoon or a ½-inch (13 mm) round piping tip (nozzle), punch out the center of each dough flower. Reroll the centers to make more cookies or discard them.
  4. Bake until golden brown at the edges and dry to the touch on top, 10-15 minutes, switching racks and rotating the baking sheets front to back halfway through.
  5. Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks and let the cookies rest on the pans for 1 minute. While they are still hot, dust the cookies with sugar and then transfer directly to the racks to cool completely.

VARIATION

Castagnese

Substitute the same weight of chestnut flour for the potato starch.

Chocolate Chip Cookies (United States)

Simon Bajada

"Ben's best baking tip? "Be patient. So much of the success of your baking comes down to simply giving things the time they need to set up or cool down. Don’t rush things. Always set a timer. Oh, and use a scale! Using the proper weight of ingredients (versus using volume measurements) will be the single greatest determining factor in the outcome of your cookies and all baked goods."

There's so much inside of Crumbs, including the origin story of each cookie and its region. Try them for breakfast, with afternoon tea, on holidays, or as a late-night snack, they are that good!

Order 'Crumbs' Here!

Amazon

Crumbs: Cookies and Sweets From Around the World

Subscribe to our newsletter for more recipe inspiration!

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

cookie recipesfoodholiday cookiesholiday recipesdessertsrecipes

5 Home Trends That Are Cringe-Worthy (But You Probably Have Them)

Barn doors, millennial grey, and all-white kitchens have officially faded from the home decor spotlight. Heading into 2025 we're seeing more dynamic, layered, and personalized styles versus cookie-cutter looks. Vintage pieces that add character, rich, earthy tones and textured finishes that bring in warmth, and natural materials are now defining the new modern aesthetic, making homes feel more inviting, lived-in, and elevated. Here are five design trends that designers are excited to see exit the home decor scene ASAP.

Outdated Design Trends For 2025

Shutterstock

Goodbye: Overly Industrial Aesthetic

"One design trend we would love to see disappear in 2025 is the overly industrial, exposed-pipe aesthetic," says Taylor Hahn, cofounder of LA-based House of Rolison. "While it's had its moment, it often feels cold and impersonal, especially in residential spaces."

Nils Timm, House of Rolison

Hello: Warm, Organic Elements

Instead, cozier spaces that combine texture, warmer colors and organic materials are in. "I believe people are craving more warmth, comfort, and organic design elements that connect them to nature," adds Taylor.

Taryn Elliott

Goodbye: Trend Shopping

There's a shift toward more thoughtful and intentional interiors rather than stocking up on everything you see trending on TikTok. The 2025 design trends look to emphasize sustainability, comfort, and timeless elegance. "Another design trend we are not fond of is over commercialization and trend shopping for your home, specific to furniture," says Amanda Leigh, cofounder of House of Rolison.

Nils Timm, House of Rolison

Hello: Investment Pieces

"Although there is nothing wrong with shopping for dupes of trendy designer furniture, we would rather see people invest in pieces they truly are passionate about and will love for years to come," adds Amanda. She suggests investing in long-lasting pieces that you curate through travel, moments in life, or "simply falling in love with a piece online."

Dacotah Studio

Sustainability is also a key focus, with an emphasis on eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and organic fabrics. Mix vintage and antique pieces with contemporary furniture for a more personal and timeless look. Top the look with bold, statement pieces, such as sculptural lighting or handmade furniture, over mass-produced items for a stronger sense of individuality. Invest in pieces that you love, have a back story, and make your home uniquely yours.

Shutterstock

Goodbye: Smart Home Technology

Smart home systems manage your heat, AV, and lighting automatically based on pre-set programs, but they can be more complicated than convenient. "I believe it’s getting too complex to navigate, upkeep and spend even more time with technology in the home, which should want us want to simplify, disintegrate and make our homes the warm place where AI has no place," says Natália Severdia, founder of Interior Studio Natália and an interior designer based in Truckee, California.

Maria Orlova

Hello: Biophilic Design

Biophilic design incorporates natural elements like plants, water features, and natural light to promote a deeper connection to nature, and create a calm and healthy living environment. Overall, modern home decor trends are embracing individuality, sustainability, and a connection to the natural world.

Mister Mister

Goodbye: Dark Maximalism

“One home décor trend that could be left behind as we head into 2025 is "dark maximalism," a style that leans heavily into dark colors and rich textures to create moody atmospheres," says Johanna Constantinou, interior trends expert at Tapi Carpets & Floors. "While this trend offers drama and depth when achieved correctly, it can easily overwhelm a space if not carefully curated." Without the right balance between richness and cohesion, Johanna says, "the abundance of dark tones and excessive ornamentation can make rooms feel cluttered and heavy, rather than cozy and inviting."

Michael P.H. Clifford, a1000xbetter

Hello: Softer Palettes

Styles like Scandinavian minimalism or eclectic designs that mix boldness with light, airy tones are excellent alternatives, adds Johanna. "These trends emphasize contrast, cultural influences, and personal expression, while avoiding the potential of a space feeling too crowded or dark. By embracing softer palettes, curved furniture, and sustainable materials, homeowners can still enjoy expressive, cosy spaces — just with a touch more lightness and harmony.”

Shutterstock

Goodbye: Kitschy Kitchens

Kitschy kitchens was a 2024 trend that was set to take off, but as with anything too kitschy, it got old fast. "Burn out and informational overload need to be balanced out with homes that feel therapeutic, calm and simple, acting as places to recharge and regain peace and tranquility. We need to let the eye and mind rest and not be overly stimulated," Natália says.

Nico

Hello: Tranquil Spaces

Earthenware, plants, terrazzo are all trends we're seeing in kitchens. Some designers were still on the fence about open shelving, but it's something that if you have the space and design with intention (choosing quality items that you love and eliminating clutter) they are still a popular trend among our favorite designers.

Gavin Cater, Bungalowe

In the end, it all comes down to creating spaces that bring you joy and reflect your unique self. Whether you're someone home in a way that feels authentic to you. Incorporating meaningful mementos alongside timeless, durable furniture will keep your space not only fresh and stylish but also enduringly relevant. The focus 2025 is on blending quality with personal expression, ensuring your home remains a sanctuary for years to come.

Check out our online newsletter for more home decor inspo!

Header image via Squared One

home decor inspirationhome decor trendsinterior designinterior design tipsinterior design trendshome decor

32 Easy Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes You’ll Be Thankful Are Not Pies

It's 2024; changing up Thanksgiving staple dishes is totally cool. It's almost time to serve stuffing cups and mashed cauliflower puree, but do you dare go beyond the classic pumpkin or apple pie? The answer is yes. There are so many new ways to incorporate your favorite Thanksgiving ingredients that you might as well try them all! (Well, as many as you can anyway).

You can always opt for new takes on apple crisp, unique pecan recipes, and pumpkin pie alternatives. Or, if you'd rather skip the pies altogether, try something completely new. Here are some of the best Thanksgiving desserts that break the mold and taste delicious while doing so.


Pumpkin Recipes

Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread 

Sloane's Table

Nothing says Thanksgiving like delicious pumpkin bread, but have you ever tried the brown butter recipe? It adds "a nutty, caramelized flavor" that'll make it hard for you to eat only one slice.

Pumpkin Pie Spiced Toffee 

Brit + Co

Don't want to deal with any leftovers? This crispy pumpkin-spice toffee is one of our favorite Thanksgiving desserts that aren't pie because it's easy for people to take home in bags. Give some to your friends, your family, and your neighbors!

Einkorn Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Calico + Twine

These aren't your average cookies. Not only are they packed with pumpkin flavor, but they're fluffy like cake instead of dense like other chocolate chip cookie recipes. One thing you'll want to note is that this recipe is specified for Einkorn flour (which hasn't been hybridized, meaning it's full of health benefits and flavor), so if you use another kind, you'll want to follow Kaetlyn's instructions on ratios.

Pumpkin Pie Brownies 

The Cookie Rookie

Boxed brownie mix (which is already a good Thanksgiving dessert) gets a gooey upgrade when layered with pumpkin, cream cheese, and warming spices.

Chocolate Pumpkin Tart with Gingersnap Crust

Completely Delicious

This is like pumpkin pie, only so much better. The rich gingersnap crust pairs so nicely with the dark chocolate ganache and sweet pumpkin filling.

Nutella-Stuffed Pumpkin Beignets

Half-Baked Harvest

Reason 8,453 why Nutella makes everything better: these plump and pillowy pumpkin beignets. Your guests will love the look of these fun Thanksgiving desserts, but they'll really freak out when they take a bite from the gooey center.

Kabak Tatlisi - Turkish Pumpkin Dessert

Give Recipe

This Turkish pumpkin dessert only requires two ingredients (seriously, what could be better than that?), is budget-friendly, and oh-so comforting!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll

Image via Give Recipe

Nothing beats a good old cinnamon roll, and this one is only elevated by the addition of pumpkin!

Baked Pumpkin Churros 

Cooking Classy

When churros and hot fudge are involved, there will always be room for dessert. (via Cooking Classy)

Easy Apple Dessert Ideas

Goat Cheese Cheesecake With Honey-Cinnamon Apples

Food Faith Fitness

Turn your favorite charcuterie-board combo into dessert with a rich and sweet goat cheese filling, sliced apples, and honey-cinnamon syrup that is definitely a Thanksgiving dessert to impress.

Puff Pastry Apple Roses

Give Recipe

Not only does this dessert taste amazing, but it looks amazing too! It's perfect to make for a Thanksgiving get-together, as everyone will be ooh-ing and aah-ing over it.

Apple Dumplings With Sparkling Apple Cider Sauce

Sweet Cayenne

Sparkling apple cider, butter, and brown sugar form a sticky sauce when baked with soft apple dumplings. If you listen closely, you can practically hear the dumplings begging to be heaped with ice cream. (via Sweet Cayenne)

Samoa Caramel Apple Nachos

The Girl on Bloor

A unique twist on a classic caramel apple, these nachos are the ultimate treat. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Apple Fritter Bread 

Crazy for Crust

Here's a five-ingredient dessert that won't let you down — and it even has fresh fruit to boot.

(Cheese)cakes Make Awesome Thanksgiving Dessert

Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcakes

Brit + Co

If you want the taste of a cake without committing to a huge slice, opt for cupcakes instead! They're delicious, they're bite-sized, and they make the perfect Thanksgiving dessert.

Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting 

The Recipe Critic

When there's a crowd, you can't go wrong with a sheet cake.

Glazed Buttermilk Donut Bundt Cake 

The View From Great Island

Why buy a dozen donuts when you can make a giant one? This unique cake is made with oat flour, buttermilk, and nutmeg.

Nutella Gooey Butter Cake

Spicy Southern Kitchen

It's only logical to end an extremely large meal with an extremely rich dessert.

Rum Cake

Averie Cooks

Few things are better than a moist and boozy bundt with a buttery sauce.

Pumpkin Roll

The Recipe Critic

If you want an elegant Thanksgiving dessert that doubles as dessert and a centerpiece, go with this pumpkin roll, which looks complex but is beginner-friendly.

Pumpkin Cheesecake 

The Recipe Critic

Gingersnap crust, caramel drizzle, can't lose.

Pumpkin Carrot Cake

Averie Cooks

The veggie action doesn't have to stop after dinner. Load pumpkin with more carrot!

Cookies, Bars and Other Dessert Recipes for Thanksgiving

Baked Churro Chips 

Brit + Co

These healthy-ish churro chips are an easy Thanksgiving dessert recipe, and they pair oh-so-well with your end-of-feast espresso. Serve them with multiple dipping sauces for a shareable treat.

Caramel Cranberry Nut Bars

Completely Delicious

It's not Thanksgiving without cranberries! This bar is buttery and masterfully combines tart cranberries with sweet caramel.

Brit + Co

Casseroles and sweet potatoes are already turkey day staples — together they make one of the best Thanksgiving dessert recipes!

Gingerbread Pecan Cheesecake

Brit + Co

Gingerbread and pecans come together seamlessly in this festive, unique Thanksgiving dessert. Our stomachs are already grumbling.

Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles

Brit + Co

Pumpkin spice pairs deliciously with cinnamon-heavy snickerdoodles.

Baked Hot Chocolate Doughnuts

Brit + Co

Hot chocolate is one of our favorite winter treats, and we'd eat doughnuts every day of the year if given the opportunity. The logical next step? Combining the two.

Vegan Butter Board 

Brit + Co

This Thanksgiving dessert can also double as an appetizer, making it double the fun! Since it's vegan, you don't have to worry about your guests with allergies feeling left out. Plus it's a hands-on snack which is great for kids.

Low-Carb Eggnog

Brit + Co

This Keto drink might not technically be a dessert, but it's sweet and delicious so we couldn't pass up the opportunity to include it. It's also the perfect segway from Thanksgiving to the rest of the holiday season.

Caramel Apple Crisp Bars 

Pinch of Yum

Love apple crisp but don't love doing dishes? These squares pack plenty of apple, butter, and cinnamon and make great finger food.

Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

The Novice Chef

Pass a plate of this Thanksgiving baking idea around, and they'll disappear faster than the turkey.

Nutter Butter Acorn Cookies

Wondermom Wannabe

If kids are on dessert duty, they'll love dipping Nutter Butters into chocolate and customizing them with sprinkles — no oven necessary. These cookies are festive, cute, and a great dessert to make for Thanksgiving!

Check out our email newsletter and our online baking classes for more Thanksgiving day desserts and inspiration!

Additional reporting by Maggie McCracken and Sara Cagle

This post has been updated.

dessert recipesholiday recipespumpkin recipesthanksgiving dessertsfood

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.

These are the best Amazon Christmas decorations I found that don’t cost an arm and a leg, but rival styles you’d find at more upscale stores like Anthropologie and Nordstrom:

Amazon

Peiduo Small LED Light Birch Trees

These tiny trees lit by twinkly LED lights are perfect for topping your mantle or dinner table. I think they add just the right amount of whimsy to your space, no matter how you decorate with them! They're not necessarily Christmas-specific, either. Their simple design allows you to spruce 'em up in all kinds of ways year-round. Similar pieces at Target and Anthropologie range from $21 $68 for one tree, but you can get two trees for just $25 on Amazon right now.

Amazon

Plaid Throw Pillow Covers

Plaid – specifically red plaid – is timeless when it comes to Christmas decor. It never fails to make a space extra cozy! These 18x18-inch covers are perfect for throw pillows on your bed and couch alike. You can snag this set of 2 in a few other holiday-ready colorways for just $10, and they'll likely last you a while with the right care.

    Amazon

    Artgar Real Touch Pine Garland

    If you have a mantle, use it! A mantle is prime real estate for Christmas decorations like stockings, candles, and cards – but none of that is truly complete without a good garland! This 6-foot faux pine garland can easily span your mantle to fill in any negative space and simply make things cozier. It comes with attached LED lights (no wall plug necessary, just a few batteries) as well as pinecone accents to make the garland itself feel fuller. Plus, $30 isn't so bad for a statement piece like this!

    Amazon

    Vintage Bow Decorative Tray

    This piece reminds me of a tray Pottery Barn Teen and LoveShackFancy sells in their collaborative collection, except it literally costs $60 less. It's not a total dupe, but the one thing it does have in common is bows: the most adorable reference to gifting season! I think this $9 pick could be so cute as a serving platter for Christmas desserts or even as a festive catchall you keep on your coffee table throughout the holidays.

    Amazon

    Kate Aspen Retro Floral Drinking Glasses

    The intricate design on these green-tinted glasses really has me hooked. They'd look so good with any sort of Christmas party tablescape – as long as you're sipping Christmas cocktails out of them! A similar set of 6 is currently being sold on Quince for $48. This one's only $26.

    Subscribe to our newsletter to shop even more holiday decor!

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

    holiday decoramazonchristmas decorshoppingbudget-friendlyhome decor

    Taylor Swift Just Gushed Over Travis Kelce After Years Of Extreme Privacy

    We might not have a royal couple here in the U.S., but as far as I'm concerned, Taylor Swift is the people's princess! Taylor and Travis Kelce are at the absolute top of their games right now (hello Eras Tour and Super Bowl ring!), and they're absolute masters at privacy, meaning they only let us see exactly what they want us to. That’s why when they go on the record about their relationship, it’s a huge deal. (Because let’s be real, it’s always adorable when a couple gushes over each other). Here’s everything this power couple has said about each other — and some other FAQ's like "How did Taylor and Travis meet?" and "What did Travis Kelce say about Taylor Swift?" you might have asked yourself recently.

    Everything Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Have Publicly Said About Each Other

    Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

    July 26, 2023 — Travis Kelce Expresses Interest In Taylor

    After Taylor's Eras Tour show in Kansas City, Travis told his brother on an episode of New Heights that he had hoped to give her a friendship bracelet displaying his phone number. "I was disappointed that she doesn’t talk before or after her shows because she has to save her voice for the 44 songs that she sings," he joked. "So I was a little butt-hurt I didn’t get to hand her one of the bracelets I made for her."

    “I said what I said,” Travis later told NFL's Andrew Siciliano. “And I meant what I said when I said it.”

    @chiara_ / Instagram

    October 22, 2023 — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Basically Hard Launch Their Relationship

    You know what they say: a picture's worth a thousand words. After lots of rumors, dates, and car rides, this kiss on the cheek was all the confirmation I needed that these two are serious!

    Kevin Winter/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

    November 11, 2023 — Taylor Swift Changes The Lyrics To "Karma"

    While Travis Kelce was in the audience during the Eras Tour, Taylor changed a "Karma" lyric from "Karma is the guy on the screen coming straight home to me" to "Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me." Yeah, it's safe to assume I freaked the freak out.

    Even though Travis revealed he had a clue Taylor would change the lyrics, he was still super surprised. "Definitely when I heard it come out of her mouth, [it] still shocked me," he said. "I was like...'Oh, she really just said that, alright.'"

    Dustin Satloff/Getty Images

    November 20, 2023 — Travis Kelce Calls Taylor Swift "Mind-Blowing"

    “I’ve never been a man of words. Being around her, seeing how smart Taylor is, has been f—king mind-blowing," Travis Kelce tells the WSJ Magazine. “Obviously I’ve never dated anyone with that kind of aura about them…But at the same time, I’m not running away from any of it…She’s just living, enjoying life. When she acts like that I better not be the one acting all strange.”

    Even Donna Kelce had something to add! “I can tell you this,” she says. “He’s happier than I’ve seen him in a long time… God bless him, he shot for the stars!”

    Inez and Vinoodh for TIME

    December 6, 2023 — Taylor Swift Reveals When She And Travis Actually Started Dating

    Travis wasn't the only person who spilled on their relationship in a cover story! While speaking to TIME, Taylor revealed that the public's perception of their relationship timeline was (and had always been) way off.

    “We actually had a significant amount of time [together] that no one knew, which I’m grateful for, because we got to get to know each other," she said in the interview. "By the time I went to that first game, we were a couple. I think some people think that they saw our first date at that game? We would never be psychotic enough to hard launch a first date.”

    Taylor also mentioned how they "show up for each other" and that they're "just proud of each other."

    Patrick Smith/Getty Images

    January 28, 2024 — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Are Caught Saying "I Love You"

    After Travis Kelce and the KC Chiefs won the Super Bowl, Taylor and Travis had some celebrating to do. The first order of business? Saying those three special words!

    According a post-game video, Travis says, “Tay, I'm going to enjoy with the guys I love you," Travis says in a post-game video, "so much it’s not even funny.” And it appears Taylor responds with, “I love you too... I’ve never been so proud, EVER.”

    Taylor Swift/Universal Music Group

    February 5, 2024 — Travis Kelce Says What We're All Thinking

    After Taylor Swift announced The Tortured Poets Departmentwould drop on April 19 (and won Artist of the Year at the Grammys for the fourth time), Travis revealed that he'd already listened to some of the music.

    "She's unbelievable, she's rewriting history books herself," he said during a press conference. "I told her I'll have to hold up my end of the bargain and come home with some hardware too...It's been fun to kind of gather the Swifties in the Chiefs' kingdom and open them up to the football world and the sports world."

    "I have heard some of [Taylor Swift's new album], yes, and it is unbelievable," he continued. "I can't wait for her to shake up the world when it finally drops."

    Amy Sussman and Jason Hanna for Getty Images

    March 8, 2024 — Travis Kelce Gushes Over Taylor Swift (Again)

    After spending some 1:1 time together in Australia (and getting hounded by the paparazzi), Travis Kelce had one easy answer for why this couple is so popular: “This is all because Taylor is the biggest and the best thing possible."

    Patrick Smith/Getty Images

    April 2, 2024 — Travis Kelce Has Never Been Happier

    After a winter and spring full of amazing moments, Travis Kelce revealed just how happy he is with life. "I'm the happiest I've ever been," Travis Kelce told People. "I'm a guy that some people say is glass half full, half empty, and my glass is all the way full. It's all the way full...I'm oozing life right now."

    And when asked about his relationship with Taylor, he hypes up how dedicated they both are to their crafts. "I think we both love what we do and any chance that I can show my support to her — knowing that she has shown me all the support in the world throughout the season — it’s just been an amazing experience getting to know Tay," he says in an interview with Entertainment Tonight.

    Amy Sussman/Getty Images

    April 10, 2024 — Even Travis Kelce Doesn't Know Why Taylor Swift Is Dating Him

    During an April episode of New Heights, Travis admitted he doesn't quite understand how he's dating everyone's favorite popstar. "I don't know how I did it because she wasn't into sports," he says. "So I don't know how the f—k I did it."

    Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

    April 19, 2024 — Taylor Swift Finally Releases Songs Rumored To Be About Travis Kelce

    Okay this one might require you to suspend your disbelief for a little bit, but there is NO WAY "The Alchemy" and "So High School" aren't about Travis. Especially after Taylor Swift started mimicking his on-field moves during her concerts!

    With lyrics like "Call the amateurs and cut 'em from the team" to "We've been on a winning streak / He jokes that it's heroin, but this time with an 'E'" in "The Alchemy" (which I think is about how Taylor literally made his game better) and "Truth, dare, spin bottles / You know how to ball, I know Aristotle" is "So High School," you'll never be able to convince me they're about anyone else.

    JC Olivera/Getty Images/Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

    April 27, 2024 — Travis Kelce Gave Us A DTR On His Relationship With Taylor Swift

    When Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce arrived at the 15 and Mahomies Foundation Golf Classic in Las Vegas, I don't think Travis intended to confirm his relationship status with the popstar — or to auction off tickets to her concerts!

    “I think I was just talking to my significant other, and we might have one other alternate item that wasn’t on the docket," he says (via People). "Um, has anybody heard of the Eras Tour?” The crowd was super excited, and they raised $80,000!

    Rob Carr/Getty Images

    June 1, 2024 — Travis Kelce Comments On Viral Engagement Rumors

    The internet has been talking about Taylor Swift's engagement (or lack thereof) for literal years, and it appears Travis and Taylor's IRL friends are talking about it too. During the Big Slick Celebrity Weekend's onstage comedy sketch Jason Sudeikis asked, "Hey Travis, real talk, OK, just the guys here...When are you going to make an honest woman out of her?"

    "Guys," Travis responded, "you're really pushing it." Good on you Travis.

    Taylor Swift/Instagram

    June 22, 2024 — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Finally Go Instagram Official

    When Taylor Swift posted a selfie from the London Eras Tour with Prince William, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte, not only was she showing off her new friends but she also went Instagram grid official with Travis (a move she hasn't pulled since 2016!)

    "Happy Bday M8!" Taylor captioned the photo. "London shows are off to a splendid start."

    Patrick Smith/Getty Images

    September 3, 2024 — Taylor Swift Literally Drafts Plays For The Chiefs

    Travis Kelce nonchalantly revealed that Taylor Swift started drafting plays for him, and I NEED to know if and they use them! “She’s a little biased and just creates plays for me," Travis tells the Rich Eisen Show. “She had just been so open to learning the game, she didn’t know much about the rules or anything…I think she was just curious about the profession...I know none of the plays have gotten to Coach Reid yet, but if they ever do I’ll make sure everyone knows it was her creation."

    Noam Galai/Getty Images for MTV

    September 11, 2024 — Taylor Swift Calls Travis Kelce Her Boyfriend On Live TV

    During the VMAs, Taylor Swift accepted the award for Video of the Year for "Fortnight," and thanked Travis Kelce for his involvement — and confirmed they were boyfriend and girlfriend!!!

    "Something that I'll always remember is when I would finish a take and I'd say ‘cut,’ and we'd be done with that take, I would always just hear, like, someone cheering from across the studio where we were shooting it, and that one person was my boyfriend, Travis," she says. "Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun and magic. So, I want to thank him for adding that to our shoot because I’ll always remember that."

    ​How did Taylor and Travis meet?

    Christian Petersen/Getty Images

    In his WSJ profile, Travis Kelce revealed he had his own assists when it came to connecting with Taylor.

    “There were definitely people she knew that knew who I was, in her corner [who said]: Yo! Did you know he was coming? I had somebody playing Cupid," he said — which he found out when Taylor contacted him. “She told me exactly what was going on and how I got lucky enough to get her to reach out."

    How long have Taylor and Travis been together?

    Jason Hanna/Getty Images

    Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have been together since summer or early fall 2023. After Travis' friend "played Cupid" and they started talking, they were basically already a thing by the time she showed up to that first Chiefs' game in September 2023!

    What is the age difference between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce?

    Jamie Squire/Getty Images

    Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are only two months apart. Travis was born on October 5, 1989, and Taylor Swift was bornon December 13, 1989.

    Can't get enough of Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce? Here are 5 Wild Predictions About TayVis We Really Want To Happen!

    taylor swiftcelebrity