31 Refreshing Iced Coffee Recipes To Sip On This Summer

Kate Thorn
and
Meredith Holser
May 14, 2024
iced coffee recipes to try this summer

Iced coffee is our all-time favorite pick-me-up, especially on a hot afternoon — and, let's be real, sometimes you need caffeine and dessert simultaneously. There's something about the combination of toasty, roasty coffee and icy, creamy sweetness that sends shivers up our spines. Since being your own barista is *so* much fun, throw on an apron and try your hand at making one of these unique iced coffee recipes.

Each one of these coffee recipes make amazing summer coffee drinks for serving at brunchor just because! Let's dive into the sweetness!


Iced Bulletproof Coffee

All you have to do for this easy iced coffee is throw all of your ingredients into a blender. It's a quick and delicious coffee that will give you lasting energy all day. (via Brit + Co)

Fresh Mint Iced Coffee

Muddled mint and *lots* of ice cubes make this iced coffee perfect for even the hottest days of summer. Add a splash of pistachio milk for a creamy drink that also gives you a refreshing dose of energy! (via Brit + Co)

Topo Chico Iced Coffee

Topo Chico sparkling mineral water is ultra-refreshing on its own, but add it to iced coffee, and you've got a serious afternoonpick-me-up on your hands. You can try different flavors for this iced coffee idea, but we also think flavorless Topo works well on its own. (via Brit + Co)

Two-Ingredient Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Sometimes you want a strong, sweet iced coffee, but can't find the energy to become a master barista to make it happen. This Vietnamese iced coffee uses sweetened condensed milk to give it big flavor with minimal effort! (via Brit + Co)

Wild Child Iced Coffee

Adulthood can be stressful. Inject some fun into your day by topping your favorite iced coffee with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream and plenty of sprinkles! It never fails, we promise. (via Brit + Co)

Rosewater Cardamom Iced Coffee

Making your own flavored creamer is an easy way to give your iced coffee a boost that you're sure to like. This recipe uses cardamom and rosewater to make a unique drink every time! (via Brit + Co)

Cinnamon Ice Cube Coffee

Keep ice cubes made from coffee infused with cinnamon in your freezer, and you can jazz up a boring glass of iced java whenever the fancy strikes. The best part about this coffee hack? No more watered-down coffee! (via Brit + Co)

Simple Vanilla Coffee

Homemade vanilla simple syrup gives a fragrant hint of sweetness to your iced coffee, so you don't have to worry about trying to dissolve granulated sugar in your cold beverage! (via Brit + Co)

Red Velvet Iced Coffee

Red velvet is simply iconic. Iced coffee gets the sweetest treatment when mixed with these red velvet-inspired iced coffee flavors! (via Brit + Co)

Lemonade Iced Coffee

With this iced coffee recipe, cold brew is diluted with a splash of lemonade for a refreshing, more caffeinated take on an Arnold Palmer, and we are definitely here for it. (via Brit + Co)

Milky, Minty Coffee Popsicles

Technically, a popsicle made out of iced coffee is... still iced coffee. Although, you might be tempted to just drink this coffee that's lusciously flavored with mint, instead of putting it into the popsicle molds. (via Brit + Co)

Coconut Iced Coffee (with Mini Chocolate Glazed Doughnuts!)

Make sure your brew is super strong so it can handle the sweetness of this recipe's coconut creamer and the bonus doughnuts! This is the ultimate coffee treat when your sweet tooth beckons. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)

Starbucks who? This copycat recipe emulates the sheer greatness of the chain's iced coffee + cold foam combo. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Iced Coffee Recipes We Love

Chocolate Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)

Chocolate and coffee are arguably two of the *best* things on the planet, so when they join forces in iced coffee drinks like this one, we just cannot resist getting a little taste. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Iced White Chocolate Mocha (Starbucks Copycat)

Give us everything sweet – we'll sip it down in no time! That includes this Starbucks white mocha dupe that you can easily customize at home with caramel drizzle and whipped cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Mocha Java Chip Frappuccino

This health-ified iced coffee recipe replaces any artificial sweeteners with naturally sweet dates, vanilla extract, and cacao nibs. Its Frappuccino-esque texture makes it the most decadent sip out there. (via Munching with Mariyah)

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)

Pumpkin spice can hit the spot practically any time of year. Pumpkin puree and sweet spices turn your regular half-and-half into a seasonally-flavored treat! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vegan Caramel Frappuccino

Coffee + banana = real energy. This sip combines the two for a more filling iced coffee bev! (via Live Eat Learn)

Iced Ube Latte

Sick of ordering the same old iced coffee flavors every time you make yourself a cup? Do yourself a favor and try this iced ube latte instead. It's earthy and subtly sweet, yet still delivers on the caffeine content you're craving. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Everyone Will Love These Iced Coffee Recipes

Kahlua Iced Coffee

Perfect for when those afternoon coffee breaks turn into evening coffee breaks, this spiked version of iced coffee is everything you could ask for at 5 o'clock. If you're worried about having caffeine too late, just swap your usual java for decaf! (via Lick My Spoon)

Caramel Mocha Coffee Concentrate

Don't be thrown off by the sugary title of this iced coffee recipe. This treat is sweetened naturally, without any processed sugars, so it gets two thumbs up from us! (via Sunkissed Kitchen)

Toasted Coconut Shakerato

Shakerato is Italian iced coffee made by shaking coffee with ice (and, in this case, tasty toasted coconut syrup). Top your glass with some creamy coconut milk, then rim it with toasted coconut flakes for a real mid-day treat! (via Simply Whisked)

We Can't Wait To Make These Iced Coffee Recipes This Summer!

Samoa Iced Coffee

Tragically, Girl Scout cookies aren't available year-round. Take matters into your own hands with this Samoa-inspired iced coffee in the morning, and make a Girl Scout cocktail after dinner! (via The Lovely Life)

Coconut Caramel Cold Brew

Something about the toasted flavor of caramel pairs *beautifully* with coconut. Pair it with some cold brew coffee for a drink you'll want to sip on all. day. long. (via The Gourmet RD)

Cinnamon Dolce Latte (Starbucks Copycat)

This recipe takes Starbucks' Cinnamon Dolce Latte and turns it into a fully vegan bev. Making your own coffee syrup will ultimately save you so much time and money! (via Munching with Mariyah)

Wake Me Up Coffee Smoothie

Pouring iced coffee into smoothies is a *genius* idea. The strong java notes partner up with the sweetness of banana and cinnamon in this truly tasty iced coffee drink! (via Live Eat Learn)

Iced Salted Honey Lattes

Salt and honey might sound like a strange combination, but think a little harder, and you'll realize that's the flavor combination that makes spiced nuts, granola, and trail mix so irresistible. It does the same for these iced lattes, which are so tasty, you'll want to get up early every day just to get a sip. (via Sweet Phi)

Viennese Iced Coffee

Dark, strong iced coffee helps tame the sweetness of vanilla ice cream to make this dessert-y drink! It's the perfect snack for any and every warm evening. (via Li'l Vienna)

Vegan Iced Cinnamon Mocha

Once you make this cinnamon-infused chocolate sauce (in just one minute, no less!), you'll be able to transform all manners of beverages and desserts. Stir some into your morning cup of joe to give your drink a spicy kick! (via Vegetarian Gastronomy)

Extra-Thick Iced Vegan Coffee Milkshake

Think about a thicker, heartier, more fulfilling version of your go-to frappé order – that's exactly what this coffee-infused milkshake is! It's packed with healthy ingredients from oats, bananas, dates, and almond butter, so you could even gulp this down for a super sustaining breakfast! (via Two Spoons)

Overnight New Orleans-Style Iced Coffee

If you want a fancy caffeine boost in the morning, make things easy by starting with some store-bought coffee concentrate. Infuse it with cinnamon and chicory (a New Orleans classic) overnight, and you'll be ready to conquer the world in the AM. (via Hummingbird High)

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This article has been updated.


20 Sinful Hot Chocolate Recipes You Have To Try

We know you love pumpkin spice lattes and other warm winter drinks, but get ready to spruce up the most classic of them all: hot chocolate! With the holiday season quickly approaching, time might feel like it's simply going *too* fast, but it will definitely slow back down when there's a comforting mug of hot chocolate in your hands.

These hot chocolate recipes range from simple and healthy to sweet and boozy, so there's something for every taste. Wear your favorite slippers, sit back, and relax. Here's to drinking hot chocolate for breakfast and topping it with far too many marshmallows.

Check out our best hot chocolate recipes below!

Vegan Slow-Cooker Hot Cocoa 

Brit + Co

If you're hosting a party, serve up the goods in a slow cooker, so guests can serve themselves. Don't forget plenty of toppings! (via Brit + Co)

Jaques Torres Hot Chocolate 

Brit + Co

Start with a classic. This version is extra-rich due to the use of high-quality chocolate coins. (via Brit + Co)

Mulled Wine Hot Chocolate 

Brit + Co

This boozy libation packs all of the flavors of the holidays, from star anise to cranberries, in one warm, chocolatey cup. (via Brit + Co)

Peppermint Hot Chocolate 

A Zesty Bite

There’s no better way to add a refreshing zing to hot chocolate than with peppermint patties. A candy cane stirrer makes it fit for a queen. (via A Zesty Bite)

Boozy Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate 

Minimalist Baker

You don't have to add Kahlua or bourbon to this already decadent hot chocolate, but it is a good idea. (via Minimalist Baker)

Salted Vanilla Hot Chocolate 

Love & Olive Oil

Sweet vanilla powder and an unexpected touch of salt unite for a hot chocolate that stands out. (via Love & Olive Oil)

Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate

Hello Glow

We all knew chocolate could mend a broken heart, but this healthy beverage can heal a headache; it uses magnesium-rich ingredients to soothe tension. (via Hello Glow)

Low-Carb Hot Chocolate 

Savory Tooth

Unsweetened cocoa powder and low-carb sweetener transform this splendidly creamy hot chocolate into a keto-friendly beverage. (via Savory Tooth)

Unicorn Hot Chocolate

Love & Olive Oil

If wintry weather has you down, this pink-as-can-be, sprinkle-covered white hot chocolate will cheer you up in no time. (via Love & Olive Oil)

Vegan Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

Domestic Gothess

Plenty of dairy-free beverages claim to be creamy, but thanks to ground cashews, this vegan hot chocolate really is luscious. Spice it up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for an even more soothing sipper. (via Domestic Gothess)

Hot Chocolate Spoons

Fork and Beans

Finally, something exciting to put in an ice-cube tray: chocolate and marshmallows. You'll have fun working for your hot chocolate by swirling these spoons into warm milk. (via Fork and Beans)

Italian Hot Chocolate 

Inside the Rustic Kitchen

Pretend you're in an Italian cafe as you sip on this luxurious cioccolata calda, made with chopped dark chocolate. (via Inside the Rustic Kitchen)

Slow-Cooker Mint Hot Chocolate

The Magical Slow Cooker

Slowly steeping mint in hot chocolate makes its bright flavor come through. (via The Magical Slow Cooker)

Pumpkin Coconut Hot Chocolate 

How Sweet Eats

Coconut milk is the base of this vegan hot chocolate, which gets a unique twist from homemade pumpkin syrup. (via How Sweet Eats)

Earl Grey Hot Chocolate 

Port and Fin

Can't decide between tea and hot chocolate? With this beverage, you don't have to. (via Port and Fin)

Matcha Honey Hot Chocolate 

How Sweet Eats

Matcha adds a healthy — and photogenic — touch to this white-chocolate-based drink. (via How Sweet Eats)

Spiked Orange Hot Cocoa 

Salt & Lavender

Thanks to Grand Marnier, this deeply flavorful hot chocolate burns in the best way. (via Salt & Lavender)

Mexican Hot Chocolate 

Delish Knowledge

Cayenne and cinnamon are the keys to cocoa with a kick. (via Delish Knowledge)

Stovetop Cinnamon Cocoa  

Jelly Toast

Ground cinnamon is a reliable, easy way to amp up your hot chocolate without going to the grocery store for a special ingredient. (via Jelly Toast)

Red Wine Hot Chocolate 

Paper & Stitch

Just when you thought hot chocolate couldn't be more relaxing, here's one with a big splash of red wine, which acts as a natural sweetener. (via Paper & Stitch)

What's your favorite hot chocolate recipe? Let us know on Instagram!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Kate Puhala.

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4 Easy Tips To Make A Truly Impressive Christmas Charcuterie Board

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I’ve fully assumed the role of the #1 charcuterie-maker in my family. Maybe it’s the perfectionist in me, but I go absolutely crazy for laying out an elegant snack spread, no matter the occasion.

I’m fixing to make the journey back home to Texas this week ahead of the holidays, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn't excited to absolutely pop off on this year’s Christmas food plans – charcuterie included.

At this point, I’ve made about 20 charcuterie boards for so many different occasions. From 2-person Valentine’s Day dates to larger Christmas parties (I’m talkin’ 15+ people), I’m a self-proclaimed pro, and am happy to share all of my best tips for creating the ultimate charcuterie!

Christmas charcuteries in particular are super fun – as the board-maker,g it’s your chance to not only put together the perfect series of snacks that recalls the spirit of the season, but impress all of your friends and family members while you’re at it.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How can a charcuterie look so good?”, you’re in the right place.

My top 4 tips will guide you through all the steps of the Christmas charcuterie board process so you can create your own Pinterest-worthy spread in no time!

Meredith Holser

1. Get a good board.

Throughout the years, I’ve learned that your charcuterie is only as good as the board you use to craft it. I’ve had moments where I tried to use a single dinner plate or even a plastic cutting board for my creations, and, well, they just didn’t cut it.

The perfect charcuterie board is durable, easy to transport, and easy to clean once all the snacks are gone. Of course, the size of your board matters, too, but that really all depends on the amount of people you plan to serve.

Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods Compact Swivel Cheese Board with Knives

I was lucky enough to be gifted this wonderful foldable charcuterie board ($87) from Uncommon Goods (thanks, mom), and it’s my go-to for small gatherings (more typical than large parties, per my lifestyle).

I also really enjoy it because it’s easy to travel with if I’m setting up a snack spread at someone else’s place. The foldability also makes it a breeze to stow away in my kitchen cupboards between uses.

My only (very minor) complaint about it is that the nooks and crannies between the folding mechanisms can be hard to fully clean.

Crate & Barrel

Carson Acacia Cheeseboard

If you plan to take your charcuterie skills to a larger get-together, I recommend looking for a long board, like these ones from Amazon ($65) or Crate & Barrel ($70).

Meredith Holser

2. Variety is key.

Now that the board’s out of the way, it’s time to get into the fun stuff – the food!

My personal preference when it comes to charcuterie boards is that they have a ton of variety. Not just variety in flavors, but color, texture, and layout.

Having a wide range of different snacks will please the palette and the eyes, which is the number one key in impressing those people that hover around the snack table, leaving them with a lasting memory about your charcuterie work.

Meredith Holser

As a quick guide, I always strive to have at least one item from each of these categories on my charcuterie board: meats, cheeses, crackers, nuts, olives, fruits, and chocolates (because who doesn’t like chocolate?!).

Bonus points for fancy picks like veggies, dips, breads, honeys, baked bries, cookies, pastries, and dipping oils.

Meredith Holser

Now, all of that is just for a regular-schmegular charcuterie moment. When it comes to a Christmas charcuterie board, you may want to stick to seasonal foods (like Christmas cookies, cheese balls, and rosemary crackers) and flavors (like cranberry, gingerbread, and peppermint) to really nail the theme. Using red and green foods is also welcome!

Wencee Minimo

It’s no secret that I love to shop at Trader Joe’s for all of my charcuterie needs. They carry a ton of items in each of the aforementioned categories, and the best part is their products typically favor the more-elevated culinary palette (not to sound pretentious AF!).

Plus, their aisles change according to the seasons, so you’re bound to find the perfect items for your Christmas charcuterie board in a single trip. I can’t recommend TJ’s more!

Meredith Holser

3. Get creative with presentation.

The presentation of your charcuterie is the part that people will remember the most, which is why I fully lean into my creativity to create an eye-catching snack spread.

My best advice is to simply be patient and don’t rush this step! It should be pure fun – sometimes it’s even more fun for me than actually eating the charcuterie!

You really can’t mess up the presentation, and if you do, everything is easily rearrangeable.

Meredith Holser

Meat roses – it sounds so silly, but making meat roses was the first thing that really leveled up my boards’ presentations. You can create them by layering slices of cured meats (like salami) around the rim of a glass. I watched a quick TikTok tutorial to learn how (thank you, internet!). This YouTube video also has some really helpful and clear tips!

I also enjoy employing methods like alternating and layering different cheeses, stylishly folding meats onto toothpicks, stuffing olives, creatively cutting berries, and more.

Amazon

Selamica Ceramic Dipping Bowls Set

The next tip kind of goes hand-in-hand with my notes about using a good board, but it definitely plays into presentation: using small bowls to section out things like olives, baked bries (my fave), jellies, and dips. Tiny bowls like this set of 6 from Amazon ($23) not only look cute, but they help in separating charcuterie items that shouldn’t touch other things (AKA oily olives or piping-hot baked cheeses).

You’ll learn more and more about your charcuterie presentation preferences through practice. Plus, no two boards are the same, so you really have free reign on each one!

Meredith Holser

4. Scale your charcuterie appropriately for the occasion.

If you’re going to serve a big Christmas party, you’ll want to up the ante with the size of your charcuterie spread. As I noted with the size of your board, you’ll want to have enough snacks to fill the blank space on it.

The real key with this is just being prepared – make sure you get a solid head count ahead of your charcuterie shopping trip, and you’ll know exactly how much to buy!

If you’re only feeding a few mouths, it’s okay to keep it small! For reference, between two people, I only need to grab one of each item. For larger gatherings above 10 people, I might be extra cautious and grab 3 or 4 of each.

I’ve found that meats, cheeses, and crackers are typically what’s gone from my boards first, so I’d recommend focusing on having enough options there for your own creation.

Meredith Holser

Another important thing to take into consideration is if your guests have any special dietary needs like allergies. That way, you can know what to avoid (or set out separately from the main charcuterie board if you’re up to making a couple of options).

Meredith Holser

If you’ve committed to the charcuterie for a function at someone else’s house, make sure you arrive in advance with all the components packaged. Building the board beforehand opens up the possibility of it getting messed up during travel.

I’d tow along my board, a bag full of the snacks, and some necessary prep items like knives and bowls. Bringing your own paper plates to coordinate could also be helpful to the host!

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

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Surprise! The 2025 Dunkin' Menu Just Leaked & 5 New Drinks Are On The Way

Dunkin’s winter menu for 2025 is lookin’ pretty sweet. Seriously – per recent menu leaks, 3 out of 5 new drinks (allegedly) coming to the menu are inspired by cake. Since there’s little I love more than a good, decadent dessert (other than coffee, of course), I’m especially excited about this speculated lineup!

The Dunkin’ winter menu leaks also report one sweet snack and an iced espresso drink that are both hauntingly similar to what Starbucks has to offer. Is the competition heating up, or is it just me?

Rumor has it that the Dunkin’ winter menu will drop on December 31, just ahead of the new year. This new menu leak is not to be confused with Dunkin's holiday menu, which dropped on November 1.

Let’s officially get into it. Here’s everything rumored to join the Dunkin’ menu this December to start 2025 off just right!

Drinks On The Leaked Dunkin' Winter Menu

@snackolator

NEW! Lava Cake Signature Latte

Lava Cake Swirl flavoring, whipped cream, mocha drizzle, and hot chocolate powder. Now that's a mouthful! That's exactly how this new rumored drink is built – with tons and tons of chocolate. If you've got a strong sweet tooth, start marking your calendar for December 31 (AKA when the Dunkin' winter menu is rumored to drop).

@snackolator

NEW! Lava Cake Coffee

Dunkin' is also rumored to feature the new Lava Cake Swirl flavoring in this creamy coffee. It looks like it'll be available to order hot or iced!

@snackolator

Brown Sugar Shakin' Espresso

Um, Starbucks dupe, anyone?! Dunkin's version of the famed Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is rumored to follow a very similar recipe to the Starbies way: espresso (shaken until frothy), brown sugar syrup, and oat milk. I can't wait to try this one and see how it measures up to my routine Starbucks order.

Dunkin'

Brown Sugar Oat Iced Matcha Latte

Per menu leaks, it also appears Dunkin' will offer two new in-app exclusive drinks, the first being the Brown Sugar Oat Iced Matcha Latte. It's like your average iced matcha latte, amped up with some brown sugar syrup and oat milk. Yum.

@snackolator

Raspberry Lava Cake Coffee

The second in-app exclusive drink on the leaked Dunkin' winter menu is the Raspberry Lava Cake Coffee, which features a dose of Lava Cake Swirl alongside a raspberry flavor shot and cream. You'll be able to order this one hot or iced.

Food On The Leaked Dunkin' Winter Menu

@snackolator

NEW! Whoopie Pie Specialty Donut

Now, onto the good stuff. The Dunkin' winter menu leak suggests that a new donut is on the way! The Whoopie Pie Specialty Donut will feature a halved glazed chocolate cake donut that's filled with vanilla whipped buttercreme icing and topped with a cute lil' buttercreme rosette.

Dunkin'

Iced Lemon Loaf Cake

Okay, yet another Starbucks similarity! The menu leak speculates this zesty-sweet snack will return on December 31. Dunkin's Iced Lemon Loaf Cake is moist as can be, and is topped with a thick layer of lemon icing.

More Leaked Dunkin' Menu Items

Dunkin'

Dunkin' Valentine's Donuts

The menu leak that announced the Dunkin' winter menu for 2025 also dropped some hints about the chain's Valentine's Day offerings.

According to the leak, the Brownie Batter (pictured above) and Cupid's Choice donuts will return on January 29. What's even more exciting is that a new iteration of Dunkin's Munchkins will be available, too!

The new Valentine's Munchkins will reportedly be made from glazed chocolate donut holes coated in Valentine's-esque sprinkles. I'm craving them already!

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The 25 Worst Christmas Songs Everyone Agrees "Suck"

I'll admit, I'm one of the people who begins listening to Christmas music in September — if not earlier. And while I always have "December" by Gabrielle Aplin & Hannah Grace and everything Nat King Cole has ever sung on repeat, there are some tunes even I can't stand. And I know I'm not the only one, which is why I scoured the internet for the absolute worst Christmas songs ever recorded. Feel free to hate-listen while you hate-watch the worst Christmas movies!

Here are the worst Christmas songs nobody wants to listen to.

The 25 Worst Christmas Songs Of All Time

Blue Ox Studio/Pexels

1. "Christmas Shoes" by Newsong.

This heartbreaking song is about a kid trying to buy shoes for his dying mother, and it traumatized children everywhere. "The song about the Christmas shoes is the worst," @VonHush wrote on Reddit, while another user agrees, "It does really suck."

2. "Last Christmas" by Wham!

According to one Reddit user, their "least favorite [Christmas song] is motherf—king Last Christmas." This is also my dad's least favorite Christmas song, and he always has a visceral reaction when it comes on the radio. What's with the drama, gents? Regardless of whether you love or hate this, I'll always stand by Taylor Swift's cover.

3. "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer" by Elmo & Patsy

This is one of my least favorite Christmas songs because I'd rather sing about peace and joy, not envision my grandmother getting mowed down by Rudolph.

4. "It's the Holiday Season" by Andy Williams

It might be time to celebrate the holidays, but this song really doesn't inspire holiday cheer for some listeners. "The lyrics really grind on my nerves," @ fresnosmokey says on Reddit. "'Woopdie doo and dickory dock and don't forget to hang up your sock.' WFT is that? Were they under pressure to put out a Christmas song as quickly as possible? Because that's just plain lazy writing."

5. "White Winter Hymnal" by Pentatonix

Okay, this is a hot take because people love this cover of the Fleet Foxes original, but it's always given me such an eerie feeling. The song isn't necessarily about death in a literal sense, but "with scarves of red tied 'round their throats / To keep their little heads from falling in the snow" and "You would fall and turn the white snow red / As strawberries in the summertime" literally send shivers down my spine.

Spencer Backman/Unsplash

6. "Do They Know It's Christmastime" by Band Aid

While this is an update addition to any playlist, one X user considers this one of the worst Christmas songs ever. "[It's] just so smug and patronizing."

7. "Mary Did You Know?" by Michael English

I haven't been able to listen to this song the same ever since I saw someone point out that yes, Mary did know. The angel told her! Touché.

8. "8 Days Of Christmas" by Destiny's Child

While we can always expect covers of old school Christmas songs, some people are really not a fan of changing up a classic. Take "8 Days Of Christmas" for example. "What arrogance compels you to just change a classic and then gurgle on about all the stuff you want?" @disco54 says on Reddit.

9. "Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Harry Simeone Chorale

And with so many new & incredible songs to enjoy, some of the older tunes are harder to listen to. “'do you hear what I hear' is so so slow and I just can’t enjoy it anymore," one X user says.

10. "Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber

Sorry y'all, I just missed the Bieber fever, which means this is a skip for me. The use of "shawty" haunts me to this day.

Brit + Co

11. "Santa Baby" by Eartha Kitt

Some people consider it a classic, others consider it like nails on a chalk board. "Not sure how controversial this is but I hate Santa Baby," one Reddit user says. "It has very little redeeming qualities for me and I will put on a non Christmas station when it comes on."

12. "Little Drummer Boy" by the Austrian Trapp Family

This song is both so long and so repetitive that it makes it hard to enjoy listening to the entire thing.

13. "The Twelve Days Of Christmas" by...Anyone

I consider this one of the worst Christmas songs simply because of how long it is. I start zoning out around "5 golden rings."

14. "I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas" by Gayla Peevey

I've always considered this song a silly addition to my Christmas playlist, but I have found myself skipping it recently in favor of more classic carols. "'i want a hippopotamus for christmas' is the worst," @polivtical says on X. "only to be tied with 'all i want for christmas is my two front teeth'. both should be considered torture."

15. "All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth" by Spike Jones and His City Slickers (or Alvin and The Chipmunks)

This makes the worst Christmas song list purely because of the above tweet. Enough said.

Brit + Co

16. "Crabs for Christmas" by David DeBoy

Just the title of this Christmas song (which is apparently about someone asking Santa for a crab feast for Christmas) has me questioning whether it's good. One Reddit user jokes it's the reason they moved out of Maryland.

17. "I'll Be Home For Christmas" by Camila Cabello

Camila's viral performance (and everyone instantly meme-ing the way she pronounces "Christmas") means I can't listen to this song the same way ever again.

18. "Wonderful Christmastime" by Paul McCartney

Wow, some of y'all really hate this song. Why?! Despite the fact it's upbeat and cute, a lot of people really don't like it.

19. "I Never Knew the Meaning of Christmas" by NSYNC

Did we really need another Christmas pop song? Especially one that tells single people they don't know the meaning of Christmas if they're not coupled up? Yikes.

20. "Dominick The Donkey" by Lou Monte

Some people simply don't want to listen to a donkey bray while they're enjoying their Christmas Eve dinner. And you know what? I get it.

Elina Fairytale/Pexels

21. "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas" by Michael Bublé

Hot take! So many people love Michael Bublé's Christmas music, but one X user says they refuse to listen to "anything with Michael Bublé." I'll admit, I'll always choose the Frank Sinatra version over Michael.

22. "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" by Bing Crosby

While we do wish you a Merry Christmas a happy holiday, this song ain't it for Christmas music lovers — especially the figgy pudding lyric. "I've never had figgy pudding, but if it tastes anything like Fig Newtons, then I sure don't see how it's worth overstaying your welcome," @newbuzzcola says on X.

23. "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" by The Jackson 5

Even though this is technically a classic, it's still not that enjoyable to listen to IMO. And it took me way too long to realize Santa's actually just the dad in costume.

24. "Christmas Time is Here Again" by The Beatles

The Beatles might be certified stars, but this song is just too repetitive. "This may be the worst song ever created," @knowpium says on X. Here's hoping it's not in the new Beatles movies.

25. Everything by Manheim Steamroller

Unfortunately, we'll have to add Manheim Steamroller's entire holiday catalogue to the worst Christmas songs list because, in the words of one Reddit user, "F—k everything about Mannheim Steamroller." Wow.

What do you think the worst Christmas songs ever are? Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments!

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OMG Lady Gaga Just Dropped A New Christmas Song (& Finally Brought Back Carpool Karaoke)

Christmas has come early for two reasons: Carpool Karaoke is back — and so is Lady Gaga! Wondering what they have in common? Everything!

The 2010's sensation gave us amazing celebrity appearances with James Corden as driver extraordinaire, and stars like Harry Styles, Katy Perry, and Selena Gomez. Lady Gaga joined the carpool in 2016 — with over 88 million views on Youtube — singing songs like "Million Reasons" and "Bad Romance" to her heart's content.

Finally, the pop star — and the show itself, TBH — made a return this week! And more than that? Lady Gaga even debuted her new Christmas song. I've already played it multiple times, so I know it's about to top my most-played Christmas songs. Excited? Here's everything you need to know about the surprise song drop, the return of Carpool Karaoke, and more!

See how Carpool Karaoke gave us the biggest surprise of 2024 — a new Lady Gaga Christmas song!

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- YouTube

In an unexpected trailer for A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, Zane Lowe can be seen accepting a phone call from the one and only James Corden who has a huge favor to ask. The first passenger Lowe picks up is the "Bad Romance" songstress herself — followed by Chappelle Roan and Dua Lipa's own individual appearances.

The car's decked out in green wreaths and festive red bows which adds to the Christmas spirit as everyone sings along to famous holiday songs. Lady Gaga can also be heard singing "Christmas Tree" which has fans in the trailer's comment section besides themselves with glee!

According to Deadline, the special premiered on Apple TV+ December 15, so it's not too late to watch it if you're just as excited as we are. But that's not all!

The outlet also reported Lady Gaga and Lowe released a new version of "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" on all streaming music platforms! This means you get to hear the pop star give the nostalgic song a punk rock vibe that's now stuck in our heads.

If Lady Gaga tells us not to pout or cry, we're going to listen! (And sing along while we're at it 😉)

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