8 Hostess-Proof Holiday Beauty Hacks to Keep You Looking Fresh

Nov 23, 2015

If you’re playing host this holiday season, the last thing you want to worry about is your hair and makeup. After all, you should be focusing on catching up with your family, perfecting your first turkey and soaking up the good vibes that come with having your loved ones in town. When it comes to your holiday hostess beauty routine, you need products that pack *serious* staying power, tools that will streamline your routine and services that will make your life straight up easier. Here are eight holiday hostess hair and beauty hacks to save you time and keep you stress-free and, of course, looking fab as you host.

You’ll be doing a lot of chatting, eating and drinking when you host, which makes it hard to wear lipstick confidently all day and night. Consider using a super powerful lipstick sealant like Ella International Lip Chic Lipstick Sealer ($12), which offers a clear formula that turns any lipstick into a budge-proof shade. Choose a color that you’ll want to have on for a *long* time ;)

TO SET YOUR HAIR IN PLACE

If you’re going for a styled ‘do this holiday, it needs to hold up for a long time. You should use tools like Goody Spin Pins ($6) to secure your style in place. The way they’re designed takes bobby pins to the next level: You actually spin them into your ‘do. Spray ‘em with hairspray before you spin them in for even more staying power.

TO COMPLETELY COVER UP DARK UNDEREYE CIRCLES

It’s a lot of work to host a holiday, and you might have been up super late (or early) prepping and cooking for the big meal, so dark undereye circles could creep in. Eek! Cover them up extra well by doing the red lipstick trick. Just put red lipstick under your eyes (sounds weird, I know) and then add your concealer on top for extra coverage. It works like a charm.

TO KEEP YOUR TEETH SPARKLY WHITE

Say cheeeese and get ready to flash your pearly whites for a ton of pics this holiday. Whether they’re those candid shots your grandpa loves to snap or the perfectly posed pics in front of the fireplace for holiday cards, your smile needs to dazzle. A week before your hosting duties commence, use Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips ($45) to make sure they’re white as snow.

TO KEEP YOUR NAILS TOTALLY CHIP-FREE

Between washing dishes, shaking hands and cookin’ up a storm in the kitchen, your nails will take a serious hit. Give Sally Hansen Miracle Gel ($15) polish pack a try. It comes with a colored polish and a top coat that is truly legit (I swear by this stuff), and you can remove it with normal nail polish remover. It seriously stays on, chip-free, for almost two weeks.

TO SET YOUR MAKEUP ALL DAY

You know those Disney princesses who you can take pics with and get autographs from? Have you ever thought about what they use to keep their perfectly applied makeup in place *all day*? You’re not alone — I, too, have spent too much time thinking about this. Their secret is professional-grade makeup setting sprays. Spray on Ben Nye Final Seal Matte Sealer ($23) and see just how long your makeup stays perfectly in place.

TO HAVE ENVIABLY FABULOUS HAIR WITHOUT THE STRESS

You’re already stressed enough, so you deserve to *not* have to worry about your hair. This is where Drybar comes in: Schedule an appointment, choose your desired blow out, sit back and let the pros handle everything.

TO GET SUPER FLUTTERY LASHES + SAVE A TON OF TIME

We all love our lashes. They’re an important feature on our faces and really bring out our eyes. While mascara is probably a part of your daily beauty routine, it can become time consuming and require freshening up during the day if it smears. Consider splurging for professional lash extensions (prices usually range from $85 – $300) to save yourself primping time and eliminate the need for those annoying smudge touchups.

Do you have any hosting tips, tricks or hacks? Share yours in the comments below.

Hailey Bieber Finally Shares First Baby Pic Of Jack Blues

There are plenty of celebrity couples that are able to balance cool yet relatable, and the coolest of all might just be Justin and Hailey Bieber. The couple is everywhere right now, thanks to Hailey Bieber's Rhode skincare and Justin Bieber's stint as an honorary celebrity co-captain at the 2024 NHL all-star game. Amid reports that the couple has had some serious issues this year, a People source promises "they are very, very happy.” Whew! Here's a full look back on their relationship.

How long have Justin and Hailey Bieber been married?

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Justin and Hailey Bieber have been married for almost six years! They tied the knot in 2018 after they were seen walking into a courthouse, but the larger ceremony that had was filled with their closest loved ones.

They looked so stunning that I'm sure Hailey Bieber's look made it to our list of celebrity wedding dresses we can't get enough of.

How far along is Hailey Bieber?

Image via Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Ever since the couple shared their sweet baby announcement yesterday, fans have been wondering how far along Hailey Beiber is. People confirmed that she's six months and even shared some cryptic clues about her pregnancy despite not fully being ready to share the happy news with the public.

Justin And Hailey Bieber's Full Relationship Timeline

Image via Ethan Miller/Getty Images

November 2009 — Justin Bieber And Hailey Bieber Meet At The Today Show

Justin and Hailey Bieber first met in 2009, when he was 15 and she was 12, when he performed "Baby" at the Today show. According to People, the friendship between Hailey's dad Stephen Baldwin and Justin's mom Pattie Mallette led to the introduction.

Image via Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

February 2, 2011 — Hailey Bieber Attends The Premiere Of Justin Bieber: Never Say Never

Justin Bieber's Never Say Never documentary thrilled Justin Bieber fans (called Beliebers) — but even though Hailey was excited to be at the NYC premiere, she told Vogue in 2019 she didn't consider herself a superfan.

"It was never that crazed, screaming thing," she says. "I didn't think about it in any kind of way except for the fact that he was cute. Everybody had a crush on him. But for the first few years we had a weird age gap."

Image via Angela Weiss/Getty Images for Variety

November 10, 2014 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Reconnect

In late 2014, Justin and Hailey Bieber were joined by Kendall Jenner at a Hillsong New York service. "One day Justin walked into Hillsong and was like, 'Hey, you got older,'" Hailey tells Vogue. "Over time he became my best guy friend. I was running around with him as his homie, but we weren't hanging out [romantically].""

Images via Jason Merritt/Getty Images/Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for EJAF

February 11, 2016 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Are Officially An Item...Kind Of

After sharing a passionate New Year's Eve kiss, Justin Bieber seemingly confirmed his relationship with Hailey right before Valentine's Day. "[She's] someone I really love. We spend a lot of time together," he tells GQ. However, he doesn't call her his girlfriend.

"I don’t want to put anyone in a position where they feel like I’m only theirs, only to be hurt in the end," he continues. "In the past I’ve hurt people and said things that I didn’t mean to make them happy in the moment. So now I’m just more so looking at the future, making sure I’m not damaging them. What if Hailey ends up being the girl I’m gonna marry, right?...I just don’t want to hurt her."Hailey went on to tell E! News that same day they were "not an exclusive couple."

Images via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images/Ethan Miller/Getty Images for New Era

Spring 2016 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Break Up

After the February 2016 GQ story went live, Justing and Hailey Bieber split. But, according to Hailey, it felt much more intense than that. "'Fizzled' would not be the right word — it was more like a very dramatic excommunication," she tells Vogue. "There was a period where if I walked into a room, he would walk out."

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

July 7, 2018 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Get Engaged

Justin and Hailey Bieber reconnected at a Miami conference from pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr., and by then, Hailey says, they were past the drama. Things fell into place quickly, and TMZ announced the couple's engagement in July.

"He was the first person I ever had real feelings for," Hailey later says in an episode of Justin Bieber: Seasons. "When things kind of went south for a little bit and we went our separate ways, I just knew that no matter what the outcome was going to be, he was going to be somebody that I loved for the rest of my life."

"Hailey I am soooo in love with everything about you!" Justin says in his official Instagram announcement. "So committed to spending my life getting to know every single part of you loving you patiently and kindLY. I promise to lead our family with honor and integrity letting Jesus through his Holy Spirit guide us in everything we do and every decision we make. My heart is COMPLETELY and FULLY YOURS and I will ALWAYS put you first! You are the love of my life Hailey Baldwin and I wouldn’t want to spend it with anybody else."

Image via Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows

September 2018 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Get Married

After moving in together, the couple was seen walking into a courthouse in the fall (via TMZ)! Since slipping wedding bands on each other's fingers, both Justin and Hailey Bieber have admitted their relationship has taken a ton of work.

"I remember when I first got married, I hit a little bit of an emotional breakdown because I thought marriage was going to fix all my problems and it didn't," Justin says in an interview with Apple Music 1's Ebro Darden (via Billboard). "You want your wife to do something that you're not doing and it's like, it's hard sometimes to look in the mirror and really have to realize, man, maybe you're not the person that you necessarily thought that you were."

"There's a reason they say 'for better or for worse.' Like, that's for real!" Hailey tells Harper's Bazaar. "I might fly somewhere and go do a job, but I can't wait to come back and hang out. And I feel like that's because of the effort that's been put in on both sides. At the end of the day, like, he's my best friend, but it still does take a lot of work to make it work."

Image via Omar Rawlings/Getty Images

February 7, 2019 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Have Their First Photoshoot Together

For Vogue's February 2019 issue, Justin and Hailey Bieber go deep into their relationship (the photos for the issue are beautiful, with the couple in shades of cream and white, with bejeweled details).

“I just feel like I care so much and I want things to be so good and I want people to like me," Justin says. "Hailey’s very logical and structured, which I need. I’ve always wanted security...with the lifestyle I live, everything is so uncertain. I need one thing that’s certain."

"I’m fighting to do this the right way, to build a healthy relationship,” Hailey says. “I’m not going to sit here and lie and say it’s all a magical fantasy. It’s always going to be hard. It’s a choice. You don’t feel it every single day...But there’s something beautiful about it anyway — about wanting to fight for something, commit to building with someone."

"We’re committed to growing together and supporting each other in those changes," she continues. "That’s how I look at it. At the end of the day, too, he’s my best friend. I never get sick of him.”

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

January 27, 2020 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Attend The Premiere Of Justin Bieber: Seasons

For a date night at the beginning of 2020, Justin and Hailey Bieber attended the LA premiere of his YouTube Original Justin Bieber: Seasons. Ahead of the screening at the Regency Bruin Theatre, the couple hit the red carpet. Justin wore pink pants and a white sweater, while Hailey looked chic in a sequined black dress.

Image via Theo Wargo/Getty Images

September 13, 2021 — Justin Bieber And Hailey Bieber Attend The 2021 Met Gala

To celebrate the Met's America: A Lexicon Of Fashion exhibit at the end of 2021, Justin and Hailey Bieber went old school glam for the Met Gala red carpet, with chic outfits and statement jewelry. Unfortunately, their appearance went viral for a different reason when fans of Justin's ex-girlfriend Selena Gomez started changing *her* name during Hailey's time on the carpet.

“It was disrespectful," Hailey says during an episode of Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast. "To me, to my relationship. It just was. Period. The end.”

While some fans think a feud has existed between Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber for years, Hailey says "there's no drama, personally."

"I can say, period, point blank, I was never with him when he was in a relationship with anybody — that's the end of it," she adds.

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

March 10, 2022 — Hailey Bieber Suffers A Mini Stroke

During the spring of 2022, Justin and Hailey Bieber were eating breakfast together when the model "started having stroke-like symptoms and was taken to the hospital," she wrote in an Instagram story (via ABC News). In a YouTube video sharing her story, Hailey explains that she was diagnosed with a patent foramen ovale (or PFO), which is a hole between your heart's left and right upper chambers.

On March 16, during Justin Bieber's concert in Denver, the singer confirmed Hailey had been doing better. "She's okay, she's good. It's been scary, you know, it's been really scary but I know for a fact that God has her in the palm of his hands."

The couple later walked the Grammys red carpet in Las Vegas on April 3.

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

September 13, 2022 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Celebrate Their Four Year Anniversary

Both Justin and Hailey Bieber posted about their fourth wedding anniversary in honor of the special day! "Happy anniversary to my best friend and wifey," Justin posted. "thank u for making me better in every way."

"4 years married to you," Hailey says on Instagram. "the most beautiful human I’ve ever known... love of my life. Thank God for you."

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

November 21, 2022 — Justin Bieber Celebrates Hailey Bieber's Birthday

Hailey Bieber turned 26 while the couple was on a trip to Japan, which meant Justin's Instagram post was 14 hours earlier for all their friends and family in North America!

"HAPPY BIRFDAY TO MY FAVORITE HUMAN BEING, XOXO," Justin says in the post. "YOU MAKE LIFE MAGIC 😭 OBSESSED WITH EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU. LOVE YOU BUM BUM."

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images

May 14, 2023 — Hailey Bieber Is Ready For Kids

"I want kids so bad but I get scared," Hailey Bieber tells The Sunday Times. "It's enough that people say things about my husband or my friends. I can't imagine having to confront people saying things about a child."

And in an interview with GQ Hype later that year, Hailey says that while she looks forward to motherhood, she won't be in a rush to tell the world when she does get pregnant: "When there comes a day that that is true, you, you as in the internet, will be the last to know."

Image via Hailey Bieber/Instagram

March 1, 2024 — Hailey Bieber Celebrates Justin Bieber's 30th

Justin Bieber finally joined the thirty, flirty, and thriving club in 2024 and Hailey was over the moon. "30!!!!!!!????!!????!!!!" she says on Instagram. "that was fast. words could never truly describe the beauty of who you are. Happy Birthday to you… love of my life, for life."

Image via Hailey Bieber/Instagram

April 3, 2024 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Are "Very, Very Happy"

After rumors began circulating that Justin and Hailey Bieber were having some serious issues, a source tells People the couple is “doing really well."

“There’s no divorce and no truth to that whatsoever,” the source says. “They are very, very happy.”

Hailey Bieber herself weighed in on the rumors in March, when she posted the above message on her Instagram story. "Just FYI the stories and constant ‘blind items’ I see on TikTok are 100% of the time wrong. Made out of thin air," she says. “So I know it may be fun feeding into these stories but just know they’re always false xx sorry to spoil it."

April 15, 2024 — Justin Bieber Celebrates His "Soulmate"

Following the first weekend of Coachella, Justin Bieber shared a video (originally posted to a fan account) that shows him standing with Hailey during a show. The fan account captioned the video, "JUSTIN AND HAILEY ARE SOULMATES IDC WHAT ANYONE SAYS," and TBH I totally agree. The video shows Justin and Hailey Bieber swaying to a song, and Justin kissing her on the forehead.

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

May 2024 — Justin And Hailey Announce They're Expecting Their First Baby

After mentioning she was ready for kids a year ago, Hailey Bieber's pregnant! So far, Hailey Bieber's pregnancy announcement carousel on Instagram has almost 10 million likes and tons of praise! Revolve even left this sweet comment: "couldn’t be happier for you guys🥹🤍."

But, the best praise came from Justin and Hailey Bieber's families. Justin's mom, Patti Mallette, took to Instagram to share her thoughts in a reel on Instagram that captured her excitement about becoming a grandma. She squealed, "Oh my gosh, I'm gonna be a grandmom! Oh my goodness!"

She also left a happy message on Stephen Baldwin's Instagramthat made some fans question if she was revealing if Justin and Hailey Bieber are having twins. She initially wrote, "Congratulations Grandpa! WE ARE GONNA HAVE THE CUTEST GRAND-BABIES EVER!" but circled back to let people know, "No not twins lol I wish. I just mean in general. Hopefully they will have more than one eventually. They will make beautiful babies whenever they have them. One is enough for now 😂."

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

The cute moments for the Biebers continue! Justin Bieber recently shared updated pics of the couple on Instagram where Hailey's baby bump is out for the world to see. She's still maintaining her signature business casual look that we're huge fans of while Justin's look complemented hers.

August 23, 2024 — Justin And Hailey Are Hollywood's Newest Parents

Look out Hollywood, there's a new Bieber in town! Justin and Hailey welcomed the arrival of their bundle of joy on August 23 and shared their enthusiasm with the world. Justin shared the cutest photo of Hailey holding their son's foot on Instagram and captioned it, "WELCOME HOME JACK BLUES BIEBER 🐻." Everyone from stylist Georgia Medley to the company Baby Bjorn congratulated the new dad on entering the ranks of parenthood.

Justin's mom even shared how excited she is that her grandson is now born! She tweeted CONGRATULATIONS @justinbieber & Hailey. I LOVE YOU FOREVER BABY JACK" and Hailey's dad, Stephen Baldwin shared his own congratulatory tweet after resharing it.

I think we can all agree that Justin and Hailey are one of the world's hottest parents aside from Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson.

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

October 22, 2024 — Justin And Hailey Are Closer Than Ever Amid Diddy's Scandal

In spite of the fact Justin and Hailey welcomed their infant son a couple of months ago, the rumor mill is dredging up the singer's past affiliation with fallen mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs. Page Six reshared screenshots from an old video of that two where Diddy's hand could be seen on Justin's chest. One user on X felt Diddy was "checking Justin Bieber to see if he is wearing a wire," however it's hard to tell since we can't really hear their conversation.

Since the video resurfaced, there have been several reports that Justin isn't doing so well because he could be reliving alleged trauma from the time he was close to Diddy. One report by The News even said the singer "looked pensive" in photos snapped of he and Hailey while they headed to Doja Cat's bday bash.

However, it seems Justin and Hailey are doing their best to continue leading normal lives amid Diddy's scandal. The Rhode founder shared a sweet photo of a little plant Justin surprised her with on Instagram stories, according to PEOPLE, and wrote, "@justinbiber bought me a plant for no reason. it’s the little things."

Justin also shared a carousel of pictures on Instagram a couple of days ago that showed him working on music. The last photo features a tender moment that captures he and Hailey leaning in for a kiss, signaling they're a united front in their marriage.

October 31, 2024 — Hailey Bieber Shares Another Picture Of Baby Jack

Hailey Bieber couldn't resist showing off another cute image of Baby Jack's feet on Instagram stories earlier today. It seems like he was seated in a baby carrier while wearing the cutest fuchsia onesie that had an 'I Voted' sticker on his foot. Hailey wrote, "Happy Halloween! Get out there and vote 👻," over the photo, letting us know she did her part on the spookiest day of the year!

What's your favorite moment from Justin and Hailey Bieber's relationship? Follow us on Facebook for more news on your fave celeb couples!

This post has been updated.

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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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

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, 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.
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.
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.
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 recipes food holiday cookies holiday recipes desserts recipes

38 Comfort Food Recipes That Pack A Healthy Punch

When it's cold outside and all you want to do is curl up in front of the fire pit, nothing hits the spot like comfort food. Sometimes though, cozy meals can be quite heavy. Luckily, comfort food doesn't *have* to weigh you down.

If you're in the mood to make a recipe that will make you feel more at ease, these are the meals for you. These 38 comfort food recipes have all the flavors you crave, but include healthier ingredients so you can have the best of both worlds!

Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Lighter Chicken, Bacon, and Broccoli Alfredo

This Alfredo has all of the flavors you love, but relies on some healthier substitutes. Low-fat milk and chicken broth take the place of heavy cream, pork bacon is swapped for turkey, and nutrient-rich broccoli is thrown in the mix for an added healthy boost.

Brit + Co

Chili Mac n' Cheese

When two of the best comfort foods come together, they form this tasty Chili Mac n' Cheese. It's a breeze to whip up on a weekday – add some more veggies in the mix if you want to make it healthier.

Just a Taste

Baked Turkey Meatballs with Quinoa

Meatballs and pasta are delicious, but are best saved for special occasions. These baked turkey meatballs with quinoa, full of lean protein and whole grains, are a lighter version that you can enjoy on a more regular basis.

Cozy Cravings

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac n' Cheese

A classic comfort food recipe (like broccoli cheddar soup) offers yet another layer of cheesy goodness when you swap the soupy part for a creamy mac and cheese. Try sneaking some shredded carrots into the dish for some extra veggies.

Cilantro Parsley

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This instant pot recipe makes for a super easy, flavorful, and delicious fall dish. Add all your favorite veggies for some extra nutrients, and to make it taste like a taco in a bowl!

Abbey’s Kitchen

Gluten-Free Tuna Noodle Casserole

Crispy root veggie chips save the day in this gluten-free tuna noodle casserole. They add just the right amount of crunch on top, without having to rely on bread crumbs.

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Every ingredient gets so nice and tender in this instant pot beef stew. With plenty of veggies and a good balance between broth, this recipe is a must-make for warming up this fall and winter.

Brit + Co

Pastina

Pastina is the ultimate comfort food recipe because it's chockfull of broth, butter, and cheese. It'll soothe your head cold, or your upset stomach. If you aren't sick, pastina is still a great dish to maximize coziness!

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

This classic childhood chicken noodle soup is upgraded when you make it in your slow cooker. This recipe in particular is great for busy days, because you can have it cook during the day then enjoy the rich flavors after you get off work.

The Petite Cook

Sweet Potato Chicken Cottage Pie

Chicken takes the place of red meat, and sweet potato takes the place of white, for a hearty, healthy meal.

Brit + Co

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Whole 30-approved loaded baked potato soup recipe is delicious and is a healthy comfort food that you won't be able to turn down. Add all your favorite baked potato garnishes right on top and you're in store for a delicious meal that goes with rainy days *and* chilly evenings.

Brit + Co

Mushroom Risotto

This easy mushroom risotto recipe will take your kitchen by storm. Once you've made it, you'll already be planning your next risotto dinner.

Brit + Co

Meatloaf

Meatloaf immediately takes us back to our mom's kitchen, eating hot meatloaf at dinner and a cold meatloaf sandwich for lunch the next day. It's already hiding some carrots, but feel free to mix in any other veggies you'd like to.

Vikalinka/Brit + Co

Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce

Comfort foods like this chicken with garlic mushroom sauce recipe are a definite way to create cozyvibes at mealtime.

Cook's Hideout

Cauliflower Risotto

Risotto is delicious, but it can be a pain to make. This cauliflower version isn’t just healthier — it’s easier to cook, too.

Whole Food Bellies

Whipped Feta and Cauliflower Mash

Skip the mashed potatoes in favor of mashed cauliflower. It’s a creamy, rich-tasting side dish that’s lower in carbs, flavored with feta and herbs so you’re left feeling satisfied.

Cook Nourish Bliss

Sweet Potato and Kale Brown Rice Casserole

Many of us grew up on cheesy rice casseroles, and this recipe offers up a healthier take. It’s made with nutritional powerhouses like sweet potato, kale, and brown rice.

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

The slow cooker beef strroganoff makes this comfort food recipe worlds easier. Not to mention, this dish is *so* full of flavor. Add even more vegetables to get in that healthy kick you're seeking.

Half Baked Harvest

Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Craving a spicy kick to your chicken tortilla soup? Add jalapenos, cumin and red enchilada sauce for a flavor you won't forget.

Kirbie's Cravings

Cauliflower Gnocchi

Cauliflower gnocchi isn’t just a lighter version of the classic comfort food recipe – it’s a praise-worthy dish on its own, especially when it's topped with colorful kale pesto.

Vodka and Biscuits

Whole30 Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie gets a lil' bit of a lighter makeover in this comfort food recipe. It’s a dairy-free take on the classic that opts for grass-fed meat instead of the usual.

Well Plated

Spaghetti Squash Boats with Chicken

Spaghetti squash replaces pasta while chicken and bacon add some big flavors to the mealtime mix for a cozy dish that’s healthy, but truly satisfying.

Wry Toast

Skillet Chicken Parmesan

Lighten things up by baking the chicken instead of frying it, and serving it on a bed of greens instead of pasta for a healthy comfort meal.

Emilie Eats

Sweet Potato Spaghetti with Lentil Sauce

Spiralized noodles are all the rage when it comes to healthy food, and they come in real handy in this dish. Topped with a chunky lentil-based Bolognese, this a cozy meal full of essential nutrients.

Killing Thyme

Vegetarian Italian Wedding Soup

A cozy bowl of soup is the perfect meal on chilly days. This Italian wedding soup is comforting, but not heavy — it uses vegetarian meatballs instead of red meat.

Healthy Seasonal Recipes

Healthy Sloppy Joes

These sloppy Joes don’t come from a can – they’re made from scratch, without any added sugars.

Baker by Nature

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Sometimes you just need a hands-off meal, but don’t want to rely on getting takeout. This slow cooker turkey chili is just the thing — loaded with veggies, beans, and lean ground turkey to keep you full and satisfied.

The Sassy Life

High Protein Mac n' Cheese

Sometimes our favorite comfort foods just need a little nutritional boost. This mac n' cheese uses protein-enriched pasta, then makes a cheesy sauce from light shredded cheese and fat-free cottage cheese, so you get a ton of protein and flavor, with less fat and calories.

Ambitious Kitchen

This post has been updated.

comfort food recipes dinner recipes healthy recipes recipe roundup food