Make This Tie-Dye Cake in a Mug for Mother’s Day

Your mom deserves something more than a card on Mother’s Day, so surprise her with a cake in a mug and top it off with flowers to look like an arrangement. These cakes only take a minute and a half to bake, and there isn’t any messy cleanup because you can mix the ingredients right in the cup. After perusing the interwebs and seeing hundreds of cakes, we decided to bring ours to life through color. Rather than making individual layers (like these layer cakes), we layered the batter in three different colors, allowing them to slightly mix for a swirly, tie-dyed look. And you guys — it looks SO GOOD! To top our cake, we added springtime blooms that mom will love. Read on for the deets.

Ingredients:

(makes two mug cakes)

— 16 Tablespoons boxed vanilla cake mix

— 2 egg

— 2 Tablespoons canola oil

— 6 Tablespoons water

— cooking spray (canola or vegetable)

— food coloring (three colors)

— vanilla frosting

— flowers

Instructions:

1. Coat the inside of your mug with cooking spray. Add cake mix, egg, oil and water to the mug. Be sure that it’s large enough that the batter only fills it halfway.

2. Stir until the batter is smooth (no clumps!)

3. Split the batter evenly into three small bowls or cups. Add food coloring and mix to combine.

4. Pour your darkest color in the bottom of the mug. Drizzle the second color on top, covering the first color as much as possible. Add the last color, then place the mug in the microwave for one and a half minutes. It will puff up then sink down.

5. Once the cake has cooled, frost the top. Then add a few stems or cover the entire cake with blooms to create a gorgeous arrangement.

Cooking spray is helpful but not totally necessary. For those of you who like to scrape the edges of the pan, ditch the spray. Add your ingredients, then get an arm workout mixing the batter. It takes a bit to get the clumps out — we recommend using a fork or a mini whisk.

Split your batter into three equal parts and add food coloring. We went with some vibrant (nearly florescent) shades of pink, purple and orange. Mom likes tie-dye, right? Well, this is a great way for her to rock it without putting on her old Phish tee.

Add the batter in layers. If you swirl it around as you pour rather than pouring it in a straight stream, the batter won’t mix as much and turn into a not-so-lovely shade of brown. Make sure your batter only fills the mug halfway or it will overflow.

Okay, time to bake. And by bake we mean microwave. Put your mug in the microwave and zap it for a minute and a half. It will cook and start to pop out of the mug like a cake slug, and then it will shrink back down until it settles into the mug. Fun and weird, we know. Let it cool for a bit before you decorate.

Coat the top with some frosting. We put a heaping spoonful on our cake to make sure even the bites at the bottom of the mug wouldn’t go without.

Now add flowers. If you need some flower arranging tips, check out our online flower arranging class. Cut the stems of your blooms so that you have about two inches to poke into the cake. If you’ve ever worked with floral foam, the cake is spongey and acts similarly, allowing you to secure the flowers where you want them. Cover part or all of the cake with blooms. Mom won’t even know there’s a cake inside! It’ll be a great surprise.

Remove the flowers when you’re ready to dig in.

I mean, those colors!

You've been putting in extra hours at the gym, guzzling plenty of water and eating healthy all week, but then nighttime rolls around and your craving for something sweet hits hard. The thing is, you don't have to tell your sweet tooth to "just chill" and deprive yourself completely. After all, sweet treats are what make the world go 'round. It's possible to still indulge in dessert without eating something *totally* unhealthy that'll also leave you feeling groggy.

Here are 40 healthy desserts that you'll go absolutely crazy over!

Brit + Co

Lebanese Rice Pudding

This rice pudding recipe features rosewater, orange blossom water, and pistachios for a light, well-rounded flavor that we can't get enough of. You won't be able to either! If you've never made rice pudding before, then this easy recipe is the perfect way to practice.

Brit + Co

Easy Brownie Cake Pops With Sprinkles

Healthy desserts don't have to be boring or tasteless. Swap your go-to milk chocolate for dark chocolate with this recipe, which is full of antioxidants and can even lower your blood pressure. To make it even healthier, swap the coconut sugar for honey, or add a drizzle of the golden stuff right on top.

Skinny Taste

No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie

This super easy no-bake dessert combines peanut butter, fat-free whipped cream, and reduced fat cream cheese in a sweet graham cracker crust. After you pour in all the ingredients, drizzle a little chocolate syrup on top and prep yourself a slice.

Julia's Album

Peach and Blueberry Greek Yogurt Cake

Made with fresh blueberries, peaches, and lightened up with creamy Greek yogurt, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch or dessert. Just make sure you finish it within the first two days (it’s a little too moist on day three), which shouldn’t be a problem because it’s *so* good.

Half Baked Harvest

No-Fuss Healthy Coconut Tart

This easy dessert sits atop a crunchy crust crafted from cashews, coconut flakes, dates, and cinnamon. The filling compliments the outer in the most perfect way!

Diethood

Creamy Ricotta Cannoli

If you thought you had to give up cannolis just because you’re trying to watch your calories, think again. The shells in this recipe are completely baked (instead of partially fried like in classic versions). We told you'll love reaching for healthy desserts!

Two Spoons

Healthy Vegan Matcha Cheesecake

Gluten-free, refined sugar-free, vegan, and no-cake, this cheesecake does it all – including providing a caffeine boost from matcha powder.

Cooking Classy

Chocolate Fruit Dip

If you’re going to eat a big plate of fruit, you might as well have something chocolatey and delicious to dip it in! This cream cheese and cocoa powder-based treat will have you craving fresh fruit like never before.

The Endless Meal

Healthy Cranberry Coffee Cake

Greet your mornings (or late nights) with this oat-filled coffee cake. While being healthy, it still fulfills all the best textures and tastes.

Running With Spoons

Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Now you can have dessert and seconds. These decadent dark chocolate bars come together entirely in the food processor and are ready to eat in an hour. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, if they somehow manage to last that long. 😗

Chocolate and Carrots

Skinny Cookie Dough Popsicles

Not even ice cream is off limits – if you choose the right recipe. In this one, sweet chocolate chip cookie dough is sandwiched between layers of non-fat honey Greek yogurt to bring you a healthy dessert that is both light and satisfying.

Rachel Mansfield

Fruit and Veggie Freezie Pops

This recipe takes one of your fave nostalgic snacks and health-ifies them, packing each popsicle tube with fruits and veggies that won't make you crash like sugar will.

Easy as Apple Pie

Low Fat Apple Cake Healthy Dessert Idea

With only 116 calories per slice, and absolutely *no* butter or oil in the batter, this cake is a healthy dessert dream come true. Sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving for a touch of extra sweetness to complement the tart green apples.

The Edgy Veg

Frozen Vegan Yogurt Bark

Yogurt bark is painfully easy to make, and the best part about it is you can customize the sweetness level, using honey or maple syrup, then pile on your favorite fruits for one of the most delicious healthy desserts you'll ever eat. 🍓

Live Eat Learn

Healthy Date Shake

Dates make this shake a whole lot healthier than ice cream additions would, but still make this sip taste totally like dessert.

Sally's Baking Addiction

Skinny Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

While these may look and taste like a diet deal-breaker, there are actually only 128 calories in each cheesecake bar. Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese are key in keeping these dessert bites on the lighter side... without sacrificing on the creamy, tasty flavor.

Give Recipe

Cinnamon Baked Pears

All you need is half an hour to bake these sweetened pears to perfection, and a generous dollop of clotted cream to top everything off, in the best way.

Munching with Mariyah

The Best Healthy Peanut Butter Cups

It's like Reese's, but healthier! These healthy, mini-sized desserts are made in a muffin tin or mold to form the classic cup shape.

Carlsbad Cravings

Frozen Fruit Skewers

Munching on frozen fruit is a *great* way to cater to your sweet tooth. Drizzle on a bit of semi-sweet chocolate and freeze for a grab-and-go dessert, anytime the craving calls!

Bran Appetit

Whole Wheat Chocolate Cake Donuts

Yes, even donuts can be lightened up. This recipe calls for whole wheat flower, almond milk, ground flax seed and a scrumptious powdered sugar vanilla glaze – all forming your new favorite after-dinner snack. So grab a glass of that almond milk, and start dunking.

Chelsea's Messy Apron

Greek Yogurt Banana and Oat Bread

This healthy banana bread won’t leave you feeling bloated and heavy afterward. Greek yogurt acts as a lighter, healthier replacement for butter and oil in the batter, and the chocolate chunks make the bread taste indulgent instead of a total sacrifice.

Munching with Mariyah

Healthy Vegan Twix Bars

So you're telling us we can chow down on our favorite candy bars without totally feeling yuck?! 😵💫 These vegan-ified Twix bars are the perfect end-of-the-night dessert snack.

Sweet and Savory

Classic Pavlova

This meringue-based dessert is light and airy, and looks so good your friends will be lining up for a slice (and seconds!) Top with fresh fruit and powdered sugar and you’re ready to eat.

The Girl on Bloor

Healthy Edible Cookie Dough

Coconut oil, oat flour, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and of course, chocolate chips combine in a single bowl to form a heavenly edible cookie dough our child selves have *always* dreamed of. This is one of those healthy desserts that we have to have every month!

Chocolate Covered Katie

Chocolate Pudding

There’s a time and place for avocados (guac, anyone?) but this chocolate pudding is not one of them. Instead, this pudding is lightened up with coconut milk and your favorite no-calorie sweetener.

Salt & Lavender

Pumpkin Pie Popsicles

Get *all* the health benefits from pumpkin without having to eat it in boring form. These frozen treats make Greek yogurt and pumpkin partner up for a totally yummy (and cooling) bite.

Mel's Kitchen Cafe

Heavenly Blueberry and Cream Dessert

Heavenly is the *absolute* right word to describe this dessert. Use a store-bought angel food cake to save yourself some time, then layer it with homemade whipped cream and fresh blueberries. Stick the completed trifle in the fridge for the next two hours while it chills.

Pink Owl Kitchen

Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Because who could ever say no to PB and chocolate? Certainly not us!

Lovely Little Kitchen

Cream Cheese Lemon Coffee Cake

Skip the calorie-laden slice of coffee cake and go with this lighter lemon version instead. The crumbly topping and tangy flavor will leave you wanting more, and that’s one craving you *can* give in to.

A Spicy Perspective

Gluten-Free Healthy Vegan Fruit Pizza

Fruit meets a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling in this vegan dessert. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to eat the whole rainbow – while still feeling healthy as ever. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Most Hungry

BAKED PLANTAINS

Sweet, caramelized, and oh-so-easy to make, they're the guilt-free treat that proves healthy can be downright delicious.

Salt and Lavender

PUMPKIN CHIA PUDDING

Pumpkin Chia Pudding is the fall-flavored upgrade your dessert game needs. It's a creamy, dreamy dance of pumpkin spice and everything nice.

Two Peas & Their Pod

Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Muffins

Moist, decadent, and sneakily packed with veggies, they're the ultimate guilt-free indulgence. Get ready to redefine your relationship with chocolate – it's one of the healthy desserts you'll love savoring.

Gastroplant

Roasted Peaches With Vegan Ice Cream and Granola

It's like a peach cobbler, but without the guilt trip. Your sweet tooth will thank you.

A Virtual Vegan

No Bake Chocolate Cake

Perfect for those moments when you crave a slice of heaven but don't want to turn up the heat. Go ahead, treat yourself!

Averie Cooks

Key Lime Meringue Pie

Talk about light and fluffy! This key lime pie is the one thing that won't give guests cavities during Thanksgiving because it's "not too tart, not too sweet" according to Averie.

No Eggs or Ham

Plant-Based Strawberry Marshmallow Cookies

What's soft and absolutely decadent? These plant-based cookies, that's what! They take 45 minutes to bake and require everything from Melt Organic vegan butter to freeze dried strawberries to create the chewiest sweets you'll taste during the holidays.

Feel Good Foodie

Chocolate Peppermint Bark

The holidays aren't complete without peppermint bark being on the menu. Everyone of all ages can enjoy this sweet and minty treat without spoiling their appetites.

Culinary Hill

Fruitcake Cookies

We've found the recipe that will make fruitcake lovers go wild! Ingredients like candied cherries, figs, walnut, and light brown sugar all add up to make 40 cookies with this recipe.

The Endless Meal

Cookie Dough Cake Pops

Keep it really light and simple with these cookie dough cake pops. They're 100% eggless and count as no-bake treats!

Follow us on Pinterest for more healthy desserts and recipes inspiration. Join our newsletter for more ideas sent right to your inbox, or check out our baking and cooking classes!

This post has been updated.

There's nothing ~normal~ about how much we love Normal People's Paul Mescal & Daisy Edgar-Jones. While it turns out we're not getting a Normal People season 2 (yet), the two actors are starring in some of 2024's biggest blockbusters (Twisters and Gladiator II, namely), and we've been soaking up their presences ever since.

Paul recently exhibited his ongoing friendship with Daisy at the Gladiator II premiere in Los Angeles. While he approached Brittany Broski on the red carpet for an interview, he recognized her from her recent 'Royal Court' interview with Daisy:

"You were with Daisy!" he chimed in excitingly. We just love this power duo!

Enda Bowe/Hulu

Daisy Edgar-Jones also revealed that she's remained incredibly close to Paul Mescal after their time on Hulu's Normal People. "Paul is one of my lifetime best friends," she says. "He’s an incredibly grounded person and I am too, I think, so it’s nice to be able to have those touchstones and those people you can laugh about it with and be lighthearted with. We met when I was 20 and Paul was 22; I’m so excited to see where we’ll be at 32, 42, and what life will bring us."

But the coolest thing is that not only is Normal People special for Paul and Daisy, but they've also been able to see the effect of the show on its fans.

"The thing I love people saying the most is, 'It made me contact my ex,'" Daisy continues. "Especially when much older people say, 'I just wanted to reach out to the person I was with when I was 17 just to say you were a big part of my history and thanks for being part of who I am, the tapestry of my life.' And that I really love, because I’m a massive romantic."

Daisy recently revealed they bonded over their training for Twisters and Gladiator II.

"I did running lessons — isn’t that crazy?" she told Variety. "Actually, Paul [Mescal] and I were laughing about it, because he was training for 'Gladiator II' and I was training for 'Twisters,' and obviously he had to be huge and I was like, 'Don’t worry, I’m going to be right up there with you.'"

Let us know your favorite Normal People moment in the comments and check out 5 Leading Ladies We'd Love To See In A Paul Mescal Rom-Com.

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

Whether your kitchen is equipped with a teeny 18-inch range or magnificent double ovens (can we come over???), somehow it always seems to be operating at capacity come the holidays. While some things are non-negotiable when it comes to getting a bit of heat, dessert doesn't have to be one of them. This collection of 20 easy Thanksgiving desserts will save the day, allowing you to serve up something sweet without breaking a sweat. That way, you can focus on what really matters: spending time with the people you love. From tasty cakes to pretty pies, you'll love all the no-bake options available to choose from.

Half Baked Harvest

Fudgy Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cake

Chocolate lovers won't be able to get enough of this delicious ice cream cake. It balances salty and sweet *perfectly* and on top of the fact that it tastes great, it looks just as amazing. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Oreo Turkey Pops

This is a great easy Thanksgiving dessert to get your guests involved in. Simply set up an activity station to kick off the festivities, and by the end of the night, their Oreo turkeys will be ready to shake their tail feathers. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Ice Cream Tart with Speculoos Crust

We totally recommend that you keep a few of these tarts in your freezer at all times. Simply pop them out of their molds and top with a spoonful of whipped cream and sprinkle of pecans as needed. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse

Ease your day-of Thanksgiving dessert prep with this delish prepared-ahead mousse. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Coconut-Pumpkin Chiffon Pie

The contrasting textures offered by a chewy coconut crust, silky pumpkin filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping make for one decadent pie. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

Diethood

Pumpkin Mousse Ice Box Cake

It’s almost hard to believe that this gorgeous layered creation requires no baking at all. (via Diethood)

The Real Food Dietitians

4-Ingredient Scotcheroo Bites

The only thing you'll need to fire up for this easy Thanksgiving dessert is your stovetop, to make the melty chocolate topping. Otherwise, this recipe is super painless and oh-so tasty. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Shared Appetite

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle

You'll need to pull out your skillet for this (mostly no-bake) easy Thanksgiving dessert recipe. Trust that the sautéed cinnamon-sugar apples that result will be totally worth it. (via Shared Appetite)

Slim Pickin's Kitchen

Bailey's & Coffee No-Bake Pots de Crème

With only five ingredients, these spiked custard cups can be thrown together in a jiffy. (via Slim Pickin's Kitchen)

White on Rice Couple

Fluffy Cranberry Pie

The pretty pink hue of this pie is bound to elicit a few oohs and aahs from Thanksgiving party-goers. Thankfully, the flavor lives up to the hype! (via White on Rice Couple)

The Edgy Veg

Vegan No-Bake Cookies

Packed with oats, nut butter, shredded coconut, and sunflower seeds, these no-bake cookies are a great healthy option for your easy Thanksgiving desserts. (via The Edgy Veg)

Life With the Crust Cut Off

No-Bake Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecakes

Five minutes of prep, four flavor-packed ingredients. We're sold. (via Life With the Crust Cut Off)

Life, Love and Sugar

Caramel Apple Trifles

Fans of cinnamon and caramel — and let’s face it, everyone else for that matter — will swoon over these eight-layer trifles. This is already one beautiful dish, but the fact it's a no-bake Thanksgiving dessert makes us love it even more. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Forks Over Knives

Vegan Cranberry Pear Tart

An abundance of fruit and nuts goes into making this beautiful, just-sweet-enough fall tart. (via Forks Over Knives)

Belle Vie

Caramel Apple Cookie Dough Bars

Cookie dough fanatics will go wild for these bars flecked with fresh apple chunks and cinnamon chips. (via Belle Vie)

Earthly Provisions

No-Bake Edible Cookie Dough Bites

With a total of 7 ingredients and 10 minutes to make 'em, these bite-sized cookie dough balls make the ultimate Thanksgiving dessert that everyone will be reaching for over and over again. (via Earthly Provisions)

The Recipe Rebel

Caramel Apple-Golden Oreo Icebox Cake

What’s not to love about cream-filled cookies, cheesecake, and caramel apple goodness coming together in one easy make-ahead dessert? (via The Recipe Rebel)

Dessert for Two

Easy Pumpkin Tiramisu

For something that sounds and looks so fancy, tiramisu is actually a snap to prepare. We’re talking only fifteen minutes of prep (plus a few hours to chill). (via Dessert for Two)

Sweet + Savory

Chai Latte No-Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Not only are these chai-spiced treats no-bake, but lining your muffin tin makes them also practically cleanup-free. (via Sweet + Savory)

Vanilla and Bean

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

This easy Thanksgiving dessert looks so stunning, it'll fool everyone into thinking you spent way more time on it than you actually did. (via Vanilla and Bean)

We hope these easy Thanksgiving desserts have saved you some time in your holiday plans this year! Make sure to join our newsletter for more recipe inspiration and check out the B+C Baking Bundle of online courses for more ideas!

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

If you know me, you know I'm a die hard Outer Banks season 1 fan. I binge watched the entire thing with my family in 2020 while quarantining on the real OBX, I joined the Drew Starkey fan club the moment he stepped onscreen, and I was obsessed with JJ and Kiara way before the internet started shipping them. So, needless to say, I waited for Outer Banks season 4 with baited breath — especially when I heard rumors it would focus on JJ (Rudy Pankow) the way previous seasons had focused on John B. (Chase Stokes) in season 1, Pope (Jonathan Daviss) in season 2, and Kiara (Madison Bailey) in season 3.

I think season 1 will always be my favorite, but Outer Banks season 4 pleasantly surprised me. We're far enough into the show that we really care about the characters, and they have enough history with one another that we're invested in their decisions. Plus, returning to the OBX provided real-world stakes I could relate to as a viewer: family drama, dealing with bullies, and more. No matter whether you really love JJ, or you're always dreaming about your next beach vacation, here's whyOuter Banks season 4 absolutely NEEDS to be your weekend binge. (Serious spoilers ahead!!!)

Here's a full Outer Banks season 4 recap of every shocking detail you missed the first time around.

  • Outer Banks season 4 finally brings the cast back to the OBX.
  • John B., Sarah, Cleo, Pope, Kiara, and JJ are up against the Kooks — and other treasure hunters.
  • Season 4 feels more grounded and relatable than past seasons, making it a very strong installment.

​We're Back On The Outer Banks!

Netflix

FINALLY! After a couple of seasons in the Caribbean and South America, Outer Banks is back, well, on the Outer Banks. Honestly, this automatically makes the season better because it provides a ton of familiarity, nostalgia, and comfort for readers. And it also provides a realistic, grounded aspect to the adventure. Because let's be honest, a group of teens hopping on a tiny plane and taking part in a jungle treasure hunt requires a little too much suspension of disbelief for me. Plus, just like Gossip Girl wouldn't be the same without Blair and Serena hitting up Bergdorf's, a Pogue beach & surfing day just feels right.

​The Pogues Open Their Own Bait, Tackle, & Deep Sea Charter Business

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

The first episode of Outer Banks season 4 catches us up on that season 3 time jump. After learning how much money they actually have their hands on, the Pogues move into JJ's old house (renaming it "Poguelandia 2.0"), and open a bait, tackle, and charter shop. While I have a few questions about how six teens literally built a business without the help of a contractor, I love seeing this group lead regular lives. The shop plays into their strengths and allows them to cultivate their relationships in normal settings instead of life-or-death ones. Friendships are made in those boring moments, IMO.

​The Group Is Searching For More Than Blackbeard's Treasure

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After Outer Banks season 3, the one thing I said I didn't want the show to do was go into supernatural, ghost territory. And for a moment, I thought that's where we were going. Wes Genrette and his son-in-law Chandler Groff hire the Pogues to find Blackbeard's treasure, but it doesn't take long for them to realize they're in over their heads (again).

Wes is a direct descendent of Francis Genrette, the man responsible for killing Blackbeard and his wife Elizabeth. Now, Elizabeth haunts every generation of the Genrette family, and once she appears, you don't have long to live. Wes reveals his daughter Larissa (Chandler's late wife) saw Elizabeth a week before she died, and Wes himself has seen her, which means his days are numbered.

At the end of part 1, the Pogues are on a mission to find Elizabeth's amulet & break the curse, which also puts them on track to find the Blue Crown. Their race against Lightner and Dalia brings Pope, Cleo, Sarah, and John B. to Charleston — and leavesPope and Sarah trapped in a crypt as it slowly floods.

Turns out, Chandler Groff was behind the ghost murders the whole time, something Shoupe should have clocked a long time ago.

​John B., JJ, And Their Friends Have A Beach Day Run-In With The Kooks

Netflix

Because so much of Outer Banks season 4 takes place on the OBX, it means John B., Sarah, JJ, Kie, Pope, and Cleo are once again clashing with Topper, Rafe, and the rest of the Kooks. Despite the fact this season features plenty of death-defying stunts, the scene that will stick with me the most is when the Pogues and Kooks wind up at the same beach access.

I audibly gasped when Ruthie, Topper's new girlfriend, plays chicken with the Pogues on the beach, almost hitting Kiara with her Jeep and running over a turtle hatch in the process. (IRL, protecting endangered sea turtles & their hatches are a big deal on the Outer Banks, so this definitely got a visceral reaction from me).

At the end of the day, the major (and arguably, the most painful) conflict of this teen drama is how the Kooks make the Pogues feel like they don't belong anywhere. And if you ask me, exploring this tension and these relationships is where the show truly shines.

Lightener Is Determined To Take Out The Pogues

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

That being said, I found the villains this season, Lightner and Dalia, to be way scarier than I expected — especially once Lightner killed Terrance and almost killed Cleo. Every time he showed up onscreen, my heart started pounding like he was chasing me! The thought of being stuck in my bait shop alone with a creepy guy, especially one brandishing a knife? Thank you, next.

​Luke Returned To The Outer Banks

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After JJ & Kiara said goodbye to JJ's dad Luke in Outer Banks season 2, he's been totally off the grid. Except, apparently, he hasn't? JJ learns Luke is back when he visits Barracuda Mike, but the father-son bonding quickly takes a turn for the crazy when Luke drops a piece of news that changes everything: he isn't JJ's biological father. Chandler Groff is.

JJ Has Actually Been A Kook This Whole Time

Netflix

JJ's entire character is based around the fact he's proud to be a Pogue. He hates the Kooks and everything they stand for, which is why when Luke reveals he isn't JJ's biological father, and that JJ is related to the Groff/Genrette clan, it totally sends JJ into orbit.

JJ Destroys Downtown

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

And by "sends JJ into orbit," I mean he literally destroys downtown Kildare...with a baseball bat (okay Steve Harrington!).

This Kook identity is something JJ's been running from the entire series — even before Kie had to reassure him that finding the gold didn't make them Kooks — and he's going to have to do some serious soul searching to figure out who he actually is now.

I was wholly sold on the theory Outer Banks 4 would reveal JJ and Sarah were siblings, but this is a pretty good alternative. And who knows? Maybe they're actually cousins.

​Powers At Be Want To Bulldoze The Cut

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

If this show has proven anything, it's that the OBX is far from paradise. This season, some big names are trying to turn The Cut — including Poguelandia 2.0 — into an extension of the wealthier Figure Eight. Things get even more complicated when Hollis, who worked with Ward before he died, wants to trick Rafe into being her financial partner...and then gets his girlfriend Sofia to convince him to sign her contract.

Rafe Proposes To Sofia...And Then Breaks Up With Her

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

It doesn't take long for Rafe to learn Hollis tricked him. And despite proclaiming his love for Sofia, proposing, and telling her nothing could get in the way of their relationship, Rafe breaks up with her and kicks her out of his home the second he finds out she conned him. Messy, messy.

The one silver lining is that it sends Rafe back to Sarah and her friends! Is he finally turning into the kind and protective older brother fans want him to be?

Sarah Learns She's Pregnant

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After she starts feeling sick, Sarah takes a pregnancy test that comes back positive...and Kiara immediately finds out. Despite the fact adding a baby to the Outer Banks dynamic is a wild concept, this is exactly the kind of domestic, sweet ending I would have hoped for Sarah and John B. And Kiara's statement that Sarah's going to be an amazing mom? I couldn't agree more.

The Pogues Head To Morocco

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Remember how excited I was for the Pogues to return to the Outer Banks? Well, that doesn't last long because in the final episode of Outer Banks season 4, the group heads to Morocco to find the Blue Crown. It's definitely not smooth sailing, but I really love seeing John B. and Sarah, Pope and Cleo, and JJ and Kiara work in their pairs.

​Rafe Begins His Redemption Arc

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Drew Starkey admitted after season 1 that he didn't care whether Rafe got a redemption arc, and I agreed at the time. I found the idea of Rafe, who was so driven to please his father he'd literally murder for him, incredibly compelling. Plus, he's been the ringleader of the War on Pogues this whole time, so suddenly making him sympathetic towards them felt like backtracking on his character.

Rafe still has his moments (like saying he'd never date a Pogue after finding out Sofia was from The Cut), but now that him and Sarah are finally moving towards reconciling, it seems like we could actually be getting a Rafe redemption after all. But that doesn't mean I want Kiara and Rafe to get together. Let's keep things platonic people!!

JJ Dies In Kiara's Arms

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

If you're a fan of OBX, or you've been on the internet at all over the last week, then you already know where this is going. After the group splits up, it's total chaos. Pope ends up killing Lightener after Cleo's wounded, while JJ finds the Blue Crown.

When Chandler Groff threatens Kiara, JJ gives up the treasure in exchange for Kie — and Chandler kills him for no reason anyway. Fans went wild over the season 4 ending, and more than one told me they were heartbroken. Outer Banks will never be the same, that's for sure.

"Revenge"

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After they bury JJ's body, the group gathers around a campfire and acknowledges that if any of them had died, JJ wouldn't rest until they were avenged. Kiara stands up, looks into the fire, and mutters "revenge" before the screen cuts to black.

Season 5 is going to be one wild ride, because based on Kiara's pure, white hot anger, and Rafe's love of all things vengeful, I can only imagine what kind of havoc this group is going to wreak on Chandler Groff.

What did you think about Outer Banks season 4? Check out why This Heartbreaking Outer Banks 5 Theory Makes THAT Death Even More Emotional.

This post has been updated.

Winter is all about showing off frosty finishes and cozy shades while adding a touch of glamour to your everyday look. From cinnamon roll makeup to frosted finishes and pink hues, this list of 44 beauty finds will provide you with everything you need to achieve the hottest looks of the season. Colorful eyeshadow palettes, matte primers, and luxe setting sprays are all waiting down below, providing you with the flawless finish you deserve this winter. Ensure your makeup is on point for every festive event and fireside gathering this season with these Amazon gems that create the most stunning looks.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Makeup Palette With Waterproof Shades

Amazon

The winter pink trend is circulating around the internet, and this makeup palette is a must-have for achieving the look. With nine different shades to choose from, this palette offers intense pigmentation and a smudge-resistant formula that you will swear by.

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This Lipstick That Stays Put All Day

Amazon

You can always count on this lipstick to keep your look in place through all your summer fun. The high-impact color works to stay put through any activity.

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Peel Off This Lip Liner Stain for Long-Lasting Color

Amazon

This long-lasting lip liner stain will keep your pout perfectly defined all day and night. It uses hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to nourish your lips. You put the liner on and leave it on for 20 minutes, then remove it for a smudge-proof color.

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This Bronzer Brings a Natural Glow

Amazon

This bronzer is the secret to looking like a Bridgerton duchess. The buildable liquid formula brings a natural finish, while the creamy formula melts into your skin. Whether you plan on spending your summer in the garden or by the lake, this gem is guaranteed to make a statement.

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This Face Primer Made With Hyaluronic Acid

Amazon

This face primer has been a TikTok favorite for years. With each use, it provides your skin with a luminous glow and dewy finish. This must-have beauty gem is infused with hyaluronic acid and agave extract, allowing it to double as a skincare find.

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This Lipstick With a Velvety Touch

Amazon

Follow the matte trend with this lipstick that has a velvety finish and lightweight design. This product can stay in place for up to 12 hours, providing you with a highly augmented look that effortlessly glides across your pout.

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This Brow Gel Infused With Peptides

Amazon

Not only does this brow gel assist in sculpting your brows, but it also doubles as a brow-enhancing serum that will promote hair growth. The tinted formula fills in your brows, creating a voluminous, full look that will also hold your winter brows in place.

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This Finishing Powder Made With Anti-Aging Ingredients

Amazon

That flawless winter finish is easy to achieve with this finishing powder, which blurs pores and creates a matte complexion without drying out the skin. This product includes skin-loving ingredients like hydrolyzed collagen, perfect for all skin types.

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Add a Touch of Radiance With This Glowy Illuminator

Amazon

Meet this glowy illuminator, a versatile luminizer that gives you a dewy, glass skin look. Wear it alone, mix it with foundation or tinted SPF, or apply it over makeup for a radiant glow. Infused with Plant-Derived Glycerin, Vitamin C, and Rose Hip Seed Oil, it effortlessly hydrates, brightens, and moisturizes your skin.

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This Face Mask With an Irresistible Scent

Amazon

This iconic face mask is a viral pick amongst beauty enthusiasts. The hydrating formula is made with rose petals and restorative oils, working to exfoliate the skin while keeping it hydrated and plump. It's a must-have for achieving the viral dewy look that everyone loves in the winter.

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This Concealer With Skincare Ingredients

Amazon

This concealer can brighten your skin, even after a long winter night. The lightweight, hydrating formula feels invisible on the skin, while the hyaluronic acid adds moisture to your face. It's known to blur fine lines and create a natural, well-rested look each morning.

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This Foundation Is Smudge-Proof

Amazon

Indulge in the viral vampy look with this foundation, which has a matte finish and transfer-proof formula. It can stay in place for up to 24 hours and offers a smooth, even finish that feels invisible on your skin.

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These Eye Masks for Winter Self-Care

Amazon

Revitalize your under-eyes with these eye masks that are packed with a potent niacinamide serum. Whether you're struggling with dark circles or puffiness, these masks can deliver intense hydration that also leaves the skin looking plump and bright.

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This Eyeliner Pencil for a Smokey Eye

Amazon

The viral smokey eye is a timeless look, and thiseyeliner pencil makes it easy to achieve. The creamy formula seamlessly glides across the skin, creating a bold look that can last up to 24 hours. Plus, it's infused with vitamin E and jojoba oil for hydrating results.

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This Water Cream Creates a Radiant Complexion

Amazon

Dewy skin is the name of the game, and this water cream is your answer. This water-based skincare gem is made with squalane and other nourishing ingredients, offering a silky finish that your skin will fall in love with.

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This Mascara for Fluttery Lashes

Amazon

Whether you're looking to create the viral frosted look or you just want to step out of your comfort zone, this mascara is a staple this season. Its waterproof design makes it practical, while the white, fast-drying formula offers an eye-catching look that will garner a ton of compliments.

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This Luminizer Blends in Seamlessly

Amazon

Add a frosty shimmer to your cheeks, brow bones, and inner eye corners with this luminizer. The creamy, bendable formula makes it easy to add to your makeup routine, adding a subtle glow that will last all day and night.

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This Cleansing Oil Melts Off Your Makeup

Amazon

Makeup wipes are so last season. Winter is all about using this cleansing oil that can melt away your makeup in seconds. It's formulated with nourishing ingredients, leaving your skin refreshed and radiant with each use.

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This Eyebrow Pencil for Precise Application

Amazon

The best part about this eyebrow pencil is that it has a dual-sided design that includes a spoolie brush for blending. This waterproof pencil allows for precise application, making it easy to customize the fullness of your brows each day.

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This Waterproof Eyeliner Comes in Vibrant Shades

Amazon

Follow the colorful winter trend with this waterproof eyeliner that comes in a vibrant blue shade. This pencil offers up to 36 hours of wear, creating a pop of color that is perfect for this season's colorful eyeliner trend. It creates a dramatic look that will complement your makeup this season.

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This Eyeshadow Palette With Shimmers and Mattes

Amazon

Influencers are raving about this eyeshadow palette, which is a must-have for creating the viral frosted makeup look. With nine shades ranging from silver to midnight blues, this waterproof palette offers highly pigmented options that will stay fresh from day to night.

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This Eyeshadow With a Touch of Shimmer

Amazon

A sultry smokey eye is one step away with this eyeshadow by Urban Decay. The highly pigmented formula and intense color offer a one-of-a-kind look that you can always count on. With various shades to choose from, it's easy to find your favorite match.

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This Primer Potion for Crease-Free Eyeshadow

Amazon

That frosty look is easy to create, thanks to this primer potion that serves as an eyeshadow primer for the winter. This product can enhance your favorite eye looks, ensuring crease-free wear that is essential for all of your frosted looks.

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This Setting Powder Creates a Soft-Focus Look

Amazon

Lock in your favorite winter looks with this setting powder, essential for blurring out your pores and imperfections. This powder is known for its soft-focus finish, perfect for adding a touch of winter magic to your favorite makeup looks.

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These Bronzing Drops Infused With Vitamins

Amazon

Show off that bronzy look in the wintertime with these bronzing drops, essential for following the cinnamon roll makeup trend. The drops are infused with vitamin E, offering a sun-kissed finish that will bring warmth to all of your favorite makeup looks.

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This Face Primer for That Coveted Dewy Look

Amazon

Believe it or not, this face primer will boost your skin's radiance like never before. The lightweight formula serves as the perfect base for the rest of your products, offering a gentle glow that is a must-have for the dry months of the year.

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This Lipstick With a Satin Finish

Amazon

There's nothing as timeless as a red lip, and this lipstick is a long-lasting option you won't want to scroll past. The satin-matte finish has a subtle shine, allowing you to show off your pout while making a statement all day and night.

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This Lipstick With a Bold Statement

Amazon

TikTokers have been raving about the vampy makeup trend, and this lipstick is a must-have for following the look. This creamy, richly pigmented lipstick offers a bold color that lasts, with a luxurious feel that won’t dry out your lips.

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This Setting Spray With Raving Reviewers

Amazon

Infused with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, this setting spray remains at the top of must-have beauty products on Amazon. The lightweight design adds a ton of dewiness to your face, while the hydrating ingredients work their magic all day long.

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This Eyeshadow Doubles as a Highlighter

Amazon

Add an icy touch to your everyday makeup routine, starting with this eyeshadow that doubles as a highlighter. The moisturizing formula is a must-have for the dry weather, while the shimmering shade creates an ethereal look that is striking and stunning.

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This Mascara With a Pop of Pink

Amazon

Perfect the pink trend with this mascara, which has the most stunning rose finish. This mascara will not only define your lashes but curl and lengthen them with each use. It's smudge-proof and long-lasting, perfect for any winter look.

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This Lip Liner Seamlessly Glides On

Amazon

With this lip liner from Anastasia Beverly Hill, the perfect matte lip is one step away. The thin design allows for precise application, while the long-wearing formula makes it a staple for a busy day around town.

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This Eyeshadow With a Liquid Formula

Amazon

Chrome is back and this eyeshadow is a must-have for creating the most iconic winter monochrome looks. With a long-lasting, glittery finish, this liquid eyeshadow creates a futuristic finish that blends in with all of your favorite products.

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This Concealer Is Waterproof

Amazon

If you struggle with tired eyes, this concealer is the answer to your winter struggles. Not only does it provide you with a full-coverage finish, but it also hides dark circles, fine lines, and redness. It's a must-have for anyone who struggles with dull skin.

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This Toner With a Milky Formula

Amazon

Soothe your skin with this toner that has a milky formula and lightweight design. This product can lock in moisture, calm redness, and strengthen the skin, serving as the perfect solution for sensitive skin in the wintertime.

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This Highlighter Enhances Your High Points

Amazon

Glow from morning to night with this highlighter with a soft matte finish and subtle shimmer. The bendable formula is perfect for applying on top of other products, reflecting the light perfectly to enhance the high points of your face.

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This Eyeshadow Stick Makes a Statement

Amazon

There's nothing more icy than this eyeshadow stick that is creamy and long-lasting. The highly pigmented color creates a bold statement, while the creamy design makes it easy to blend and combine with your other favorite products.

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This Eyeliner Pencil for a Defined Look

Amazon

Achieve a warm, cinnamon-inspired eye with this eyeliner pencil, which is infused with caffeine for a smooth application. This eyeliner is bendable and rich in color, bringing warmth and depth to all of your favorite looks.

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This Face Powder Comes With a Puff

Amazon

The best part about this face powder is that it has an extra-fluffy puff accessory that makes it easy to apply and blend into the skin. This product is a must-have for setting the makeup in place and evening out the skin tone with each use.

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This Lipstick for the Matte Lip Trend

Amazon

When in doubt, you can always count on this lipstick to create a luxurious look that your lips will love. The silky matte finish is creamy and nourishing, while the hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid work to prevent dryness.

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This Bronzer Powder Lights Up Your Look

Amazon

Bronze your skin like never before with this bronzer powder that adds the perfect touch of warmth. The lightweight powder adds a sunlit finish to your skin, perfect for bringing life to your winter makeup.

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This Blush Tint With a Buildable Formula

Amazon

Dark blush is trending all season, and this blush tint is the perfect place to start. This weightless beauty gem has a watercolor finish that is sheer and buildable, allowing you to customize your look each day. Plus, it has a ton of dark hues to choose from.

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This Eyeshadow Palette With 12 Shades

Amazon

With 12 different mattes and shimmers to choose from, this eyeshadow palette is a must-have for the viral smokey eye look. Whether you use these highly pigmented shades to create soft day looks or intense evening looks, they will gain compliments everywhere you go.

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Try a Vegan Beauty Item With This Saie Dew Blush

Amazon

This Saie dew blush gives cheeks a natural flush with a lightweight formula that can be built up for a deeper wash of color. The cream blush is easily blendable for streak-free application.

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