10 McDonald’s Ordering Hacks Savvy People Know

We don’t care what anybody says, McDonald’s will always be the ultimate guilty pleasure even if you’re ordering a vegan option. To ensure that you make the most of all your visits to the Golden Arches, we’ve compiled 10 ordering hacks you need to know. Their all-day breakfast might be long gone, but there are still plenty of tricks that will seriously upgrade your fast food experience. Keep reading for savvy tips that’ll have you singing badabababaa.

Brunch Half Hour

If you arrive at McDonald’s between 10:30am and 11am, AKA the sweet spot when breakfast is about to end and lunch is about to begin, you’ll get the best of both worlds. You can order a stack of fluffy pancakes and an original cheeseburger or any other lunch option your heart desires. (via POPSUGAR)

McCrepe With Berries

What do you get when you combine an order of fluffy pancakes with a fruit and yogurt parfait? Your very own fast food version of French cuisine with this DIY McCrepe. Creamy yogurt and sweetened berries make it extra delicious. Ooh la la. (via Cosmopolitan)

Steamed Bun

Some people go years before tasting the wonder that is the Filet-O-Fish. We think this is pure injustice for more reasons than one. First, it’s always — and we mean always — made to order. Second, it’s made with a soft, pillow-like steamed bun much different than those used for the typical burger. And much, much better. Here’s a secret: You can order it for any sandwich. We repeat, any sandwich. So whether you’re a fan of the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, or even the original burgers in Happy Meals, this bun switch will change your life (and meal). (via LA Weekly)

Real Eggs = Round Egg

If you want a freshly griddled egg on your breakfast sandwich, one that looks like you cooked it yourself, order a “round egg.” That’s right, the round egg is actually a freshly cracked egg, cooked in a round mold on the flat top and served to you fresh. (via Serious Eats)

Fresh Fries, Please

There’s nothing better than piping hot fries with just the right amount of salt sprinkled on them. While you can order no salt to ensure you get fresh fries every time, we suggest just asking for fresh fries. Here’s why: When you order no salt, the person working at the fry station has to clean everything down. Can you feel the eye roll? We can. Unless you have to order fries with no salt for health reasons, don’t do it — simply ask for fresh. (via New York Post)

Get Those Onions Outta Here

There are some people who love onions on everything. Then there are those who can take them or leave them. If you’re the latter, we recommend you leave them. That’s the best way to ensure that your burger is freshly made and assembled. As simple as it is, that small change will force the sandwich makers to prepare you a new burger. You’re welcome. (via POPSUGAR)

Big Mac Dupe

Quick — what’s the best ingredient of a Big Mac? We highly doubt it’s just the two burgers or the three bun pieces. We bet it’s the Mac Sauce because it’s *always* the sauce. So, if you’re looking to save a little dough, order a McDouble without the traditional fixings like ketchup and mustard. Instead, order it with the Mac Sauce for a budget-friendly Big Mac. Voilà. (via Business Insider)

McChicken Salad

Every once in a while, you’re in the mood for something… lighter. If that’s the case, order a McChicken sandwich with extra lettuce and hold the bun. Then order a side salad with your dressing of choice. Once you’re sitting, chop your way to a simple (Mc) chicken salad that’s as good for your pocket as it is for your belly. (via BuzzFeed)

Caramel Apple Pie Sundae

It’s not on their dessert menu, but miniature pies in those convenient cardboard boxes can easily get an à la mode upgrade. All you have to do is order an apple pie (or two) and a caramel sundae. When you order, ask for an extra cup so when you chop up the apple pie, you can get the ice cream to apple pie ratio just right. (via New York Post)

Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwich

There’s no need to wait until summer to indulge in a refreshing ice cream sandwich. Head to your favorite Mickey D’s and order two chocolate chip cookies and your favorite McFlurry. Sandwich the ice cream between both of the cookies and chow down. (via Today)

What’s your favorite McDonald’s ordering hack? Let us know by tweeting us @BritandCo.

(Photos via Joe Raedle / Getty, McDonald’s)

As much as I adore coffee, you could not convince me to drink it black. I like my drinks sweet (but not too sweet) and creamy (but not too creamy), with plenty of flavor that doesn’t drown out the actual coffee notes. But sometimes, the classic coffee-creamer combo gets old and I need a way to spice up my morning joe. Luckily, there are endless ways to upgrade coffee that take your brew from boring to beautiful.

I polled my inner circle (we’re all coffee snobs to a degree) about their #1 favorite add-in that truly makes their coffee shine. These 6 simple coffee upgrades are all affordable, easy, and compatible with all kinds of brewing methods. Next time your pick-me-up needs a pick-me-up, try out one of these hacks!

Brigitte Tohm / PEXELS

1. Lavender

Lavender in a latte is sheer heaven. I’ve DIY’ed my own lavender syrup before (it’s too easy), but you can also buy it ready-made! Any sort of syrup makes for an easy coffee upgrade, really. Brands like Jordan's Skinny Mixes and Torani are my go-to’s, and they sell a vast array of flavors to suit any taste!

Lisa Fotios / PEXELS

2. Cinnamon

I’m convinced cinnamon belongs in everything. I put it in my protein pancakes, yogurt bowls, and cookies, but it’s also a supreme add-in for coffee and even matcha lattes! The warm flavor notes of cinnamon are also perfect for cozying up in the fall and winter.

Julissa Helmuth / PEXELS

3. Honey

Cinnamon in coffee gets even better when you put honey in the mix with cinnamon. It’s one of my pal’s absolute go-to’s in lattes (hot or iced), but it also works just as well in hot drip coffees or cold brews.

Andrea Davis / PEXELS

4. Oat milk

Oat milk (or milk of any kind) is a perfect coffee hack for those who can’t stand black coffee. It helps cut the sharpness and acidity of the brew, adding some creaminess and color to each sip. I find that oat milk is the best pairing for breakfast time!

Amazon

5. Protein shake

In place of milk, I also really like adding a splash of a protein shake to my coffee for a dose of creaminess and flavor. The protein is just an added bonus!

I really love Koia’s protein shakes since they sell a lot of different flavors, from Cinnamon Cereal to Pumpkin Spice.

JaYoung Choi / PEXELS

6. Brown sugar

I’ve used brown sugar many times to make a Starbucks copycat brown sugar shaken espresso right at home. I’ll simply add equal parts instant coffee and brown sugar to a mason jar with ice, shake it up, and top it off with cinnamon and milk.

If you prefer sipping on something a little less fancy, adding a spoonful to a plain hot coffee could be really delightful, too!

Target

7. Cold foam

The final (and tastiest) coffee hack I drink on the regular is cold foam! Target sells a good range of cold foam cans in various flavors, but I’ve really come to love the salted caramel iteration. It’s perfect for topping of iced coffees for a nice mid-day treat!

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

My love for making latte recipes has come to a halt with the news I need to balance my hormones. I could curse the sky for this minor inconvenience, but I've been testing low-to-no caffeine coffee alternatives to curb my sadness. Thanks to Google, I've found 10 of the best products ever created.

I know this sounds far-fetched, but I think I may opt to drink them more often than relying on things full of acidic caffeine!

Scroll to find the best low-to-no caffeine coffee alternatives that boosts your energy without being harsh on your body.

Low Caffeine Coffee Alternatives 

Live Conscious

Live Conscious Beyond Brew Vanilla Latte

Starting off with the first coffee alternative I've tried, Live Conscious' Beyond Brew Vanilla Latte is high on my list because almost forgot I wasn't drinking my Nescaf Gold Instant Coffeelatte mix. My favorite thing about it is how easy it is on my tummy. Coffee usually gives me an extreme case of gas cramps, but this doesn't. I think it's because it's filled with ingredients like turkey tail and other probiotics!

Everyday Dose

Everyday Dose Mushroom Coffee

Next up is Everyday Dose's Mushroom Coffee! Made with 80% less coffee than other brands, it's way better than Dr. Robotnik's recipes in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. It's easy on digestive and nervous systems because it's full of ingredients like collagen, chaga, and lion's mane. So, you get the boost of energy without the weird jitters and pained run to the bathroom!

MUD/WTR

MUD/WTR Matcha Starter Kit

Is Matcha coffee-adjacent? It depends on who you ask, but it's technically not. I just love drinking it when I feel like I've exhausted my go-to latte drink. MUD/WTR's starter kit only has 55g of caffeine in it which is a better alternative than your go-to coffee drink. Trust me!

No Caffeine Coffee Alternatives 

World Wide Botanicals

World Wide Botanicals French Chicory Root Brew-Like Coffee

Not only is this coffee alternative caffeine free, but it's not acidic either! I especially love that how the chicory breaks down into a healthy prebiotic that helps the right kind of bacteria flourish in your digestive tract. Knowing that most illnesses begin in our stomachs, I love how this promotes a healthy version of what coffee lovers typically drink.

Anthony's Goods

Anthony's Goods Instant Chicory Root

Do you need another reason to drink chicory root? Not really, but Anthony's Goods has another alternative that's just as good as World Wide Botanicals' version. Besides being caffeine-free, this product's also gluten-free and has non-GMO properties. The taste is just an extra benefit!

Rasa Koffee

Rasa Koffee Original Adaptogenic Mushroom Coffee

What I want? More mushroom coffee ASAP! This vegan product is also great for anyone who's following a Whole 30 or Ayurvedic diet. It has 13 natural herbs in it and helps you feel less stressed with each cup you drink. How's that for an incentive to reach for coffee alternatives?

Walmart

Cafix All Natural Instant Beverage Crystals

Calling all barley lovers! I've found instant coffee crystals that are 100% caffeine-free! Amazingly enough, Cafix has figured out how to leave out the ingredient that makes some of us experience a post-coffee crash and I love that. I will say it's a little pricey for Instant Coffee, but you don't need to use that much.

Teeccino

Teeccino Turkey Tail Astragalus — Toasted Maple

The name 'Turkey Tail' may sound hilarious, but this blend is so good it's not funny. It's another acid-free, pre-biotic drink that doesn't taste like raw mushrooms (so important) and it brews like your favorite drink. Not bad.

Banyan Botanicals

Banyan Bitter & Bold Coffee Alternative With Chicory & Dandelion

If you don't need a ton of sugar or caramel syrup in your coffee, you'll enjoy drinking this chicory and dandelion mix. It a;so has adaptogens and prebiotics for a bold flavor you'll enjoy before a busy day. Plus, the fact it's caffeine-free is another added bonus.

Sip Herbals

Sip Herbals Peppermint Mocha Superfood Coffee Alternative

Did you really think I'd forget to include something that tastes festive? I couldn't leave this coffee alternative off the list because it combines "antioxidant-rich carob and soothing peppermint" together for a taste that feels like someone's throwing a Christmas party in your mouth.

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

One of the hard facts of life is that sometimes you have to accept that your favorite Starbucks drink just doesn’t vibe with your wallet. But that doesn’t mean you have to swear off your coffee addiction altogether!

If you look hard enough, there’s actually a Starbucks hiding in your kitchen. Okay, not actually — that would be weird — but with a few ingredients, you can recreate your favorite treats with Starbucks hacks at home. From breakfast wraps to Frapps, here are the Starbucks copycat recipes you need to access all things Starbies at home.

Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

This Starbucks copycat recipe is still as gooey and sweet as the OG. Using all fresh ingredients to make these bars will make them even better than the drive-thru! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

This seasonal drink doesn't have to be just for the holidays anymore! Simply follow the copycat recipe and adjust the sweetness, type of milk, and garnishes how you like 'em. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Bacon & Gruyere Egg Bites

Starbucks' egg bites will always be famous. Recreate the best flavor at home with under 10 ingredients! (viaBrit + Co)

Starbucks Medicine Ball

The citrusy-sweet effect of this Starbucks copycat recipe will keep you company on sick days or cold winter nights. Plus, it's only 4 ingredients? Say less. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Lemon Loaf

There's no doubt that the lemon loaf is one of the best items on the Starbucks breakfast menu, but they can get pretty pricey once you start ordering them regularly. This copycat recipe yields a slice just as soft, sweet, and lemon-y! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Caramel Brûlée Latte

Now you can enjoy your go-to seasonal bev year-round! This caramel-infused Starbucks drink earns a dessert-y feel, which is perfect for pairing with bedtime. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Eggnog Latte

R.I.P. the original Eggnog Latte! Luckily, you can revive the now-discontinued drink right at home super easily with eggnog, espresso, and nutmeg. Add a splash of Baileys if you're feelin' fiesty! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Gotta love some shaken espresso for on-the-go! Start your mornings off strong with this intensely-caffeinated iced coffee that won't cost $6 each time you drink it.(via A Virtual Vegan)

Peach Green Tea

​One of our fave Starbucks hacks is asking for a splash of peach juice in our iced teas. As opposed to Starbucks' pre-made peach tea, this copycat recipe leverages ​fresh ​peaches for a ridiculously refreshing sip! (via Hello Little Home)

Starbucks Mushroom & Spinach Egg White Bites

The best thing about this Starbucks copycat recipe is that you can easily customize what goes into them. Instead of the expected mix of mushrooms and spinach, try adding bacon, sausage, cheese, peppers, and more. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Starbucks Iced Pistachio Latte

With this copycat cup, you'll first craft your very own pistachio syrup. It'll yield a ton of syrup that you can use for drinks in the future. It's a massive time-saver, plus it's tasty AF! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Make sure to brew an extra strong cup of espresso for this latte. The bitterness of the espresso strikes a not-too-sweet balance with the addition of brown sugar and cinnamon spice! It’s a more indulgent way to get your daily dose of caffeine. (via Diethood)

Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

These muffins are addictive! But, like anything you get from Starbucks, the money you spend will rack up quick. Opt to make an entire batch at home to last you and the fam weeks – instead of minutes. (via Averie Cooks)

Starbucks Petite Vanilla Scone

Use vanilla bean paste in this scone’s frosting for a punched-up dessert flavor. It’s one way to make your morning meal feel like a special treat! (viaCrazy For Crust)

Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte

PSL season doesn't have to end in October! Keep all things pumpkin goin' past fall time with this easy copycat recipe. It uses pumpkin puree to keep the flavor fresh and authentic. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Healthy Homemade Strawberry Frappuccinos

You can have your strawberry Frappuccino and drink it too with this easy Starbucks copycat recipe. It’ll turn your post-gym smoothie into a healthy Frappuccino that only tastes like an indulgence! (via Desserts With Benefits)

Starbucks Copycat S’mores Frappuccino

This copycat S’mores Frappuccino recipe is like a quick camping trip... without all the bugs, dirt, and potentially inclement weather. Enjoy this chocolate-y drink in the comfort of your home, with ingredients you have in your pantry! (via Baking Beauty)

Pumpkin Scones

Not-too-sweet pumpkin scones get a double dose of vanilla icing in this Starbucks copycat recipe. One icing is plain and sweet, while the other packs a pumpkin-spiced punch. Now you can experience fall any time you want! (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Healthy Iced Coffee

This skinny vanilla iced coffee doesn’t require a trip to the store or Starbucks. It’s only three ingredients — coffee, your milk of choice, and vanilla extract. Yay, saving money! (via iFoodReal)

Copycat Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade

The key to recreating passion tea lemonade in your home is Tazo Passion Tea bags. From there, all you need is lemonade and a dash of vanilla extract. (via Cincy Shopper)

Vanilla Iced Chai Latte

Jazzing up your chai with vanilla is such an easy idea. Plus, this make-at-home bev is only three ingredients and takes just over five minutes to make. Never wait for your name to be called out again. (via Mom Makes Dinner)

Starbucks Copycat Spinach Feta Wrap

Recreating this Starbucks wrap at home lets you add more ingredients that the original might lack. Add extra feta cheese or spinach to satisfy your morning cravings! Best of all, you can really taste the difference in freshness with this Starbucks copycat recipe. (via The Big Man’s World)

Oat Milk Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolates are classic – but there's no need to go spend $7 on a single drink when you have all you need to make one at home! Sugar, cocoa powder, water, salt, and oat milk make this sipper super easy. The marshmallows and shaved chocolate garnishes are optional, but we say go for it! (via Earthly Provisions)

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Lead image via Pink Owl Kitchen.

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

White Lotus season 3 is coming to a close, and the internet has a lot of questions — led, of course, by Who is The White Lotus killer? Well, I can't answer that one for you just yet, but we'll all get the answer this Sunday, April 6, when the White Lotusseason finale airs. Here's everything you need to know about how to stream the episode (and how to rewatch all the episodes leading up to it).

Here's everything you need to know about season 3 The White Lotus season finale episode, airing on HBO and Max April 6, 2025.

When is The White Lotus season finale?

Fabio Lovino/HBO

The White Lotus season 3 finale will air on HBO and Max April 6, 2025 at 9 PM EST.

How many episodes will The White Lotus season 3 have?

The White Lotus season 3 will have 8 episodes total, and episode 8, "Amor Fati," is premiering this week! Here's the full schedule:

  • Season 3, Episode 1 "Same Spirits, New Forms" premiered on February 16, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 2 "Special Treatments" premiered on February 23, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 3 "The Meaning of Dreams" premiered on March 2, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 4 "Hide or Seek" premiered on March 9, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 5 "Full-Moon Party" premiered on March 16, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 6 "Denials" premiered on March 23, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 7 "Killer Instincts" premiered on March 30, 2025
  • Season 3, Episode 8 "Amor Fati" airs on April 6, 2025

Who's in The White Lotus season 3 cast?

Fabio Lovino/HBO

The White Lotus season 3 cast is one of the best on TV right now! The list includes:

  • Jason Isaacs as Timothy Ratliff: a financier vacationing in Thailand with his family, and with some secrets.
  • Parker Posey as Victoria Ratliff: Timothy's wife.
  • Patrick Schwarzengger as Saxon Ratliff: Timothy and Victoria's eldest son who works Timothy.
  • Sarah Catherine Hook as Piper Ratliff: Timothy and Victoria's daughter, a college senior who's studying religion.
  • Sam Nivola as Lochlan Ratliff: Timothy and Victoria's youngest, a high school senior.
  • Michelle Monaghan as Jaclyn Lemon: a TV actress on a girls' trip.
  • Leslie Bibb as Kate Bohr: one of three friends on a Thailand girls' trip.
  • Carrie Coon as Laurie Duffy: a lawyer escaping the real world with a girls' trip.
  • Walton Goggins as Rick Hatchett: a guest at The White Lotus traveling with his younger girlfriend Chelsea.
  • Aimee Lou Wood as Chelsea: a young English woman staying at the resort with her much-older boyfriend.
  • Lalisa Manobal as Thidapon "Mook" Sornsin: the White Lotus' health mentor.
  • Lek Patravadi as Sritala Hollinger: an owner of the White Lotus.
  • Natasha Rothwell as Belinda Lindsey: spa manager visiting from the White Lotus Hawaii vacation.

Where did The White Lotus season 3 film?

The White Lotus season 3 filmed from February 2024 until August 2024, and filmed in various locations around Thailand, like Bangkok, Phuket, and Ko Samui.

Is White Lotus season 3 finished?

Fabio Lovino/HBO

The final episode of White Lotus season 3 airs this week, April 6, 2025. But filming for the show finished in August of 2024.

Are you excited for The White Lotus season finale? Tag us with all your insane theories on Instagram!

Spring mornings undeniably call for easy breakfasts filled with bright, fresh flavors, so we’ve gathered up 13 delicious recipes worthy of adding to your meal rotation. Whether you’re craving something sweet or something savory, there are plenty of ways to get your day started on the right foot. These 13 easy spring breakfasts will definitely bring a little extra sunshine to your mornings – no complicated steps required!

Scroll on for 13 easy spring breakfasts to make all season long.

Brittany Griffin

Copycat Starbucks Bacon & Gruyere Sous Vide Egg Bites

Babe, wake up! We have Starbucks at home! This egg bites recipe is super quick to prep for the week, plus you can easily customize the fillings based on what you're craving week-by-week. (via Brit + Co)

Jessica Smith

Baked French Toast

This baked breakfast recipe simplifies the process of making French toast, though each slice still turns out so sweet and tender. Top your dish with seasonal berries, and voila! Breakfast is served. (via Jessica Smith for Brit + Co)

Patricia Conte

Blood Orange Smoothie

This blood orange smoothie is a great easy spring breakfast to take on the go. Packed with plenty of vitamin C, you'll be feelin' powerful as ever after sipping it! (via Patricia Conte for Brit + Co)

Grace Elkus

Feta Fried Eggs

Bulked up with feta cheese and seasonings, these fried eggs are not your ordinary fried eggs. Frying them with the 'extras' lets 'em get super crispy and ready for the eating! (via Grace Elkus for Brit + Co)

Samantha Cassetty

Key Lime-Avocado-Mango Toast

A little sweet and a little savory, this avocado toast topped with mango slices will surely become your new breakfast addiction this spring. It's super easy to make and will be devoured in no time. (via Samantha Cassettyfor Brit + Co)

Live Eat Learn

Strawberry Chia Oatmeal Cookies

With oats and chia seeds, these healthy breakfast "cookies" can be batched out in large amounts and stored in the fridge or freezer for subsequent breakfasts and mid-day snacking sessions. Easy peasy, we tell ya! (via Live Eat Learn for Brit + Co)

The Girl on Bloor

Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

This customizable breakfast casserole is as easy as dump and cook... and then, chow down! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Crowded Kitchen

High Protein Overnight Oats

High protein eaters, you're gonna want to bookmark this one! These overnight oats come together, well, overnight, so you don't have to do much work to make 'em other than measure out the ingredients and stir together. Then, you can add different fruits to each serving depending on your mood! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Greek Yogurt Banana Muffins

Packed with more protein, these banana muffins are prepped using Greek yogurt for that extra oomph. The chocolate chips are absolutely necessary here, BTW. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Forks & Foliage

Asparagus Puff Pastry Tart with Eggs & Feta

Ooh, bougie! This breakfast may look fancy, but it's actually pretty easy to make, thanks to the help of some pre-made puff pastry. Load it up with asparagus, eggs, and feta, and you've got a very spring-ready breakfast to enjoy! (via Forks & Foliage)

A Virtual Vegan

Peach Baked Oatmeal

Peaches are the ultimate spring fruit, and if you haven't tried them in oatmeal quite yet, here's your perfect excuse! (via A Virtual Vegan)

The Endless Meal

Zucchini Tomato Frittata

Frittatas are great spring breakfasts to make because you can easily make a big serving and save the leftovers for the entire week. This one's packed with zucchini and tomatoes, but you can definitely swap those out for any veggies or proteins you're feelin'. (via The Endless Meal)

A Spicy Perspective

Mango Smoothie with Green Tea

Boosted with some caffeine from green tea, this fresh and energizing mango smoothie is so quick to blend in the AM. (via A Spicy Perspective)

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