This Vegan Apple Hand Pies Recipe Is So Good You Won’t Even Miss the Butter

Your sweet-toothed-vegan, dairy-free, or egg-free friends can feast happily at your holiday party if you bake up these easy apple hand pies. Our shortcut to make them effortless: Use packaged Pepperidge Farms Puff Pastry, which is one hundred percent vegan and yet bakes up just as flaky and puffy as the traditional butter-filled dough. You can also cook the filling ahead of time, stash it in the fridge for up to a week, and have a package of the puff pastry on hand, so you can whip these up whenever pie craving strikes.

VEGAN APPLE HAND PIES RECIPE

(Makes 12 hand pies)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Granny Smith apples, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground clove
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • juice of one lemon
  • 1/2 cup apple juice
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 sheets Pepperidge Farms Puff Pastry, at room temperature

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Combine apples, salt, cinnamon, clove, ginger, sugar, lemon, and apple juice in a pot. Mix to combine, and bring to boil over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender, about 10 minutes.

3. Remove from heat, add flour, then stir to combine. Your mixture should become thick. Any lumps (like as pictured) will bake out, so don’t stress!

4. Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface.

5. Cut puff pastry sheets into six even rectangles, then transfer them onto a baking sheet, leaving a few inches of space between each piece. Repeat with the other sheet so you have 12 total pieces. You may need two baking sheets.

6. Spoon about a tablespoon of your cooled apple mixture onto one side of your puff pastry. Be sure to leave some space (about 1/2-inch around each side) so you can seal the edges in the next step.

7. To seal the puff pastry, dip your finger in water and brush it around the edges of your pastry.

8. Fold the unfilled half of the pastry over the filled half, and press the edges with your fingertips to ensure each side is sealed. Repeat with remaining puff pastry.

9. Use a fork and lightly press around the sides of your sealed pastry to add a decorative, crimped edge. Use a fork to prick the tops too, which will allow steam to escape as these bake to prevent them from bursting open.

10. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

11. Allow to cool, then top with powdered sugar or store-bought vegan caramel sauce.

Show us your favorite hand pies on Instagram @BritandCo!

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

(Recipe via Lena O’Neal/Brit + Co; photos via Kurt Andre/Brit + Co)

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

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

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

In the age of prestige TV (hey The Bear!), I have really become a TV person. I love keeping up with the same characters throughout the course of multiple episodes (and in the cast of The Last of Us and The Summer I Turned Pretty, multiple weeks), and then over multiple years. And there are plenty of incredible TV shows premiering and returning in 2025 — and some of these January TV shows have already dropped!

Here are 25 new TV shows we can't wait to see in 2025.

Lockerbie: A Search for Truth — On Peacock Now

Graeme Hunter/SKY/Carnival

Dr. Jim Swire (Colin Firth) is mourning the loss of his daughter Flora after Pan Am Flight 103 explodes, when he becomes the spokesperson for all the UK victims. But the more he fights for justice for all the families, the more he realizes just how unjust the system is.

Lockerbie is on Peacock now and stars Colin Firth, Catherine McCormack, Sam Troughton, Mark Bonnar, Ardalan Esmaili, Mudar Abbara, Guy Henry, Nabil Al Raee, and Jemma Carlton.

Small Town Setup — On Hallmark+

Hallmark+

Consider this new TV show like living in a Hallmark movie IRL. When a single searching for love returns home, they're presented with dating options handpicked by people in their hometown. "All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Small Town Setup is on Hallmark+ and is hosted by Ashley Williams.

When Calls The Heart Season 12 — On Hallmark Channel Now

Hallmark Channel

Our comfort show is back! When Calls The Heart season 12 brings Elizabeth and Hope Valley into the 1920s — and the parties, romance, and eventual financial troubles that come.

When Calls The Heart season 12 is on Hallmark Channel and stars Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Melissa Gilbert, Pascale Hutton, Jack Wagner, Chris McNally, Kavan Smith, and Viv Leacock.

Doc — On Fox Now

FOX

Dr. Amy Elias is chief of internal medicine, but doesn't remember anything from the last eight years of patients, work drama, and even her own divorce thanks to a traumatic brain injury. This is one medical drama you'll definitely want to check out.

Doc is on Fox and stars Molly Parker, Omar Metwally, Jon-Michael Ecker, Anya Banerjee, Scott Wolf, Amirah Vann, and Conni Miu.

The Traitors Season 3 — On Peacock January 9, 2025

Chris Haston/NBC

This is the reality show for people who aren't so sure about reality TV. Alan Cumming, a Scottish castle, and a crazy murder mystery game? Yes please!

The Traitors season 3 premieres January 9 and stars Alan Cumming, Wells Adams, Sam Asghari, Chanel Ayan, Bob the Drag Queen, Dolores Catania, Jeremy Collins, Robyn Dixon, Dylan Efron, Nikki Garcia, Bob Harper, Britney Haynes, "Boston" Rob Mariano, Dorinda Medley, Ciara Miller, Royal Lord Ivar Mountbatten, Danielle Reyes, Tom Sandoval, Chrishell Stause, Tony Vlachos, Carolyn Wiger, and Gabby Windey.

On Call — On Prime Video January 9, 2025

Prime Video

In this new TV show, veteran officer Traci (Troian Bellisario) and rookie (Brandon Larracuente) go on patrols around Long Beach, California. California beaches might be pretty laidback, but Traci is definitely in for plenty of challenges.

On Call premieres January 9 and stars Troian Bellisario, Brandon Larracuente, Lori Loughlin, Rich Ting, and Eriq La Salle.

With Love, Meghan — On Netflix January 15, 2025

Netflix

This new TV show follows the Meghan Markle on a cooking, gardening, and hosting journey! This is one home I'd love to step into, TBH.

With Love, Meghan hits Netflix on January 15 and is hosted by Meghan Markle, alongside guests like Mindy Kaling.

XO, Kitty Season 2 — On Netflix January 16, 2025

Netflix

In XO, Kitty season 2, Kitty (Anna Cathcart) wants nothing more than to just date casually. But a letter from her mom's past opens up new adventures, relationships, and opportunities — and the return of Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo)!!!

XO, Kitty season 2 stars Anna Cathcart, Audrey Huynh, Sasha Bhasin, Joshua Lee, Minyeong Choi, Gia Kim, Sang Heon Lee, Anthony Keyvan, Peter Thurnwald, and Regan Aliyah.

Severance Season 2 — On Apple TV+ January 17, 2025

Apple TV+

Relationships and identity will always be timely TV themes (try saying that five times fast), and in Severance season 2, Mark (Adam Scott) running around his office, and running from his problems, in the Severance season 2 teaser trailer is the most relatable thing I've seen. all day. After a full season of his work and personal lives being, well, severed, Mark is in for a lot of surprises this time around. Completely separating your career from the rest of your life might sound ideal, but this January TV show is going to show us why that's simply not the case.

Severance season 2 premieres on January 17, and stars Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower, Tramell Tillman, Jen Tullock, Dichen Lachman, Michael Chernus, Gwendoline Christie, Bob Balaban, Merritt Wever, Alia Shawkat, Robby Benson, Stefano Carannante, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, and John Noble.

Prime Target — On Apple TV+ January 22, 2025

Apple TV+

Edward (Leo Woodall) is about to make a major breakthrough, meaning he (and any other genius) could have access to every computer in the world. Now he's teaming up with a National Security Agent (Quintessa Swindell) to keep it safe.

Prime Target premieres on January 22 and stars Leo Woodall, Quintessa Swindell, Stephen Rea, David Morrissey, Martha Plimpton, Sidse Babett Knudsen, Jason Flemyng, Harry Lloyd, Ali Suliman, Fra Fee, and Joseph Mydell.

The Night Agent Season 2 — on Netflix January 23, 2025

Netflix

These new TV shows are just proving that 2025 is going to be another year of hot men. And in The Night Agent season 2, Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso) is finally an official Night Agent after saving the President's life — and he is, once again, in way over his head.

The Night Agent season 2 premieres on January 23 and stars Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, Fola Evans-Akingbola, Sarah Desjardins, and Enrique Murciano.

Sweet Magnolias Season 4 — On Netflix February 6, 2025

Netflix

It's finally time to head back to Serenity and catch up with all our Sweet Magnolias! And it sounds like their friendship is about to be put to the test. Season 4 will examine "the twists and turns of romance, the complexity of friendship, the surprises that pop up in life," showrunner Sheryl J. Anderson tells TUDUM, "and how all these things make us more grateful for the people who love us."

Sweet Magnolias season 4 premieres February 6 and stars JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Brooke Elliott, and Heather Headley.

The White Lotus Season 3 — On HBO and Max February 16, 2025

Fabio Lovino/HBO

White Lotus season 3 is (somehow) spicier than ever before. This year we're headed to Thailand to meet some new characters...and see some familiar faces too. And just like the trailer teases, we're in for a crazy dose of both pain and pleasure.

The White Lotus season 3 premieres February 16 and will star Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Blackpink’s Lisa Manobal.

Yellowjackets Season 3 — On SHOWTIME And Paramount+ February 16, 2025

Showtime

This season of Yellowjackets is sure to answer lots of questions — and probably give us even more than we had in the beginning. "How do you change while you are in your core, in your essence, the same person you always were?" creator Ashley Lyle tells Vanity Fair, teasing the merging the characters' past and present selves. "How much are you hiding that, and how long are you able to do that, is a question that we’re playing with this season."

Yellowjackets season 3 premieres February 16 and stars Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, Tawny Cypress, Lauren Ambrose, Sophie Nélisse, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Sophie Thatcher, Samantha Hanratty, Courtney Eaton, Liv Hewson, Steven Krueger, Warren Kole, Kevin Alves, Sarah Desjardins, Simone Kessell, Elijah Wood, Joel McHale, and Hilary Swank.

1923 Season 2 — On Paramount+ February 23, 2025

Lo Smith/Paramount+

1923 season 2 is going to be all kinds of chaotic as the Dutton family fights to get back to one another: Jacob and Cara remain on the Yellowstone ranch, Spencer's making his way across the country, and Alex has to figure out a way to get off that dang ship.

1923 season 2 premieres February 23 andthe cast includes Julia Schlaepfer, Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren, Brandon Sklenar, Michelle Randolph, Darren Mann, Jerome Flynn, Aminah Nieves, and Isabel May.

The Last of Us Season 2 — On HBO and Max April 2025

HBO

The Last of Us season 2 is going to be more intense, more emotional, and more explosive than ever — especially when Ellie figures out the huge secret Joel's been keeping from her. I'm ready to cry, TBH.

The Last of Us season 2 will star Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Gabriel Luna, Rutina Wesley, Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Young Mazino, Spencer Lord, Danny Ramirez, Catherine O'Hara, Jeffrey Wright, Tati Gabrielle and Ariela Barer.

Running Point — On Netflix In 2025

Netflix

In this new TV show, Isla Gordon becomes President of the LA Waves basketball team after a scandal costs her brother the job. And Isla will have to prove to everyone around her that she can balance work AND play (although maybe a little more work than play, ammirite?)

Running Point is coming to Netflix soon and stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.

The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 — On Prime Video In 2025

Peter Taylor/Prime Video

Not only does our third trip to Cousins Beachfeature three extra episodes, but it'll also pick up smack dab in the middle of the Belly-Conrad-Jeremiah love triangle. Here's hoping we're getting a spinoff so we can see these characters as many times as possible!

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 premieres in 2025 and stars Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno, Sean Kaufman, Rain Spencer, Jackie Chung, and Rachel Blanchard.

Stranger Things Season 5 — On Netflix in 2025

Tina Rowden/Netflix

This year, longtime fans of this series will finally get to see how the story ends. The show is bringing us into 1987 and last time we saw the Hawkins crew, they were face-to-face with the Upside Down infiltrating our world.

Stranger Things 5 is coming to Netflix soon and stars Millie Bobby Brown, Noah Schnapp, Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin, Gaten Matarazzo, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Sadie Sink, Maya Hawke, Joe Keery, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, Amybeth McNulty, and Priah Ferguson.

The Bear Season 4 — On FX And Hulu In 2025

FX

The Bear season 3, in my opinion, was only the first half of the story. I'm excited to see how season 4 wraps it all up — including the restaurant's review and Carmy's effect on Sydney...

The Bear season 4 is coming to FX in 2025 and stars Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, and Matty Matheson.

Wednesday Season 2 — On Netflix in 2025

Bernard Walsh/Netflix

Wednesday season 2 is taking us back to Nevermore Academy alongside Jenna Ortega — and Lady Gaga? We don't know much about the plot just yet but this cast is all I need to convince me to watch.

Wednesday season 2 is coming to Netflix soon and stars Jenna Ortega, Lady Gaga, Georgie Farmer, Victor Dorobantu, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nayo, Joy Sunday, Owen Painter, Emma Myers, Billie Piper, Evie Templeton, Luis Guzmán, Isaac Ordonez, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Alfred Gough, Noah Taylor, Miles Millar, Tim Burton, Steve Buscemi, Moosa Mostafa, and Hunter Doohan.

Sullivan's Crossing Season 3 — On The CW In 2025

CTV/Fremantle/The CW

Sullivan's Crossing season 2 was full of twists and turns — and season 3 is going to be just as wild (and cozy). “We are so excited to return to Sullivan’s Crossing next year for a third season,” Brad Schwartz, CW's President, tells Deadline. "Roma [Downey], this talented cast, and the entire creative team have built an incredible world full of emotionally charged storytelling that has resonated with viewers over the last two years."

Sullivan's Crossing season 3 is coming in 2025 and stars Morgan Kohan, Chad Michael Murray, and Scott Patterson.

Only Murders In The Building Season 5 — On Hulu Soon

Patrick Harbron/Disney

We don't have an official release date for season 5 yet, but we've gotten a new installment every year since its premiere so I'm feeling hopeful! This year Mabel, Oliver, and Charles will have to solve Chester's murder (I'M HEARTBROKEN) and might even deal with some mob bosses.

Only Murders in the Building season 5 is coming soon and stars Selena Gomez, Martin Short, Steve Martin, and Téa Leoni.

Virgin River Season 7 — On Netflix Soon

Netflix

If you've already binged all of Virgin River season 6, don't worry — there's another season coming! And showrunner Patrick Sean Smith says it'll “explore the honeymoon phase for them as they’re building their lives on the farm, which can come with its own obstacles.”

Virgin River season 7 is coming soon and stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Annette O'Toole, Tim Matheson, Colin Lawrence, Kandyse McClure, Sarah Dugdale, and Kai Bradbury.

Nobody Wants This Season 2 — On Netflix Soon

Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Nobody Wants This became an immediate classic when it premiered in 2024, and we can't wait to see Noah and Joanne navigate their relationship and family drama in season 2.

Nobody Wants This season 2 is coming to Netflix soon and stars Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons, Stephanie Faracy, Tovah Feldshuh, Paul Ben-Victor, Michael Hitchcock, Jackie Tohn, Sherry Cola, Shiloh Bearman, and Emily Arlook.

Which new TV show are you excited to see in 2025? Sound off in the comments and check out the amazing 2025 movies headed our way!

Desserts make Christmas go around, but it can be hard to find time to bake with countless holiday parties to attend. If you're feeling a little oven-shy or wonder why those cookie recipes you try to bake come out looking gooey, maybe it's time for a different approach.

Because we've been there before, we put together a list of 35 stellar “no-bake" recipes that will satisfy everyone's preferences and dietary restrictions! If you're still craving something sweet after reading about these delectable treats try making our No-Bake Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie or our adorable No-Bake Grammy Bon Bons!

Half Baked Harvest

No Bake Mixed Berry Custard Tart

It's hard to believe this stunning dessert is no bake! Buttery Ritz crackers are the secret with homemade vanilla custard, mixed berries, and sweet honey. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Clean Cuisine

No Bake Key Lime Pie

Love the little something green on your holiday dessert table and this healthy twist on traditional key limes is sure to please! (via Clean Cuisine)

Vikalinka

No Bake Strawberry Meringue Cheesecake

It's all in the name and it's all absolutely delicious. (via Vikalinka)

Averie Cooks

No Bake Tiramisu

Not a lot of time? This no-bake dessert infused with espresso, Kahlua, a luscious creamy filling is decadent and so easy! (via Averie Cooks)

Hello Little Home

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Give your cheesecake a taste of fall with this delightful holiday dessert. (via Hello Little Home)

Kathryn's Kitchen

No Bake Chocolate Peppermint Graham Crackers

These no bake bars are a crowd pleaser and make great last-minute gifts! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Woman Scribbles

No Bake Coffee Swirl Cheesecake

Add a hint of coffee flavor to your cheesecake dessert. (via Woman Scribbles)

Chocolate No-Bake Holiday Desserts

Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

A staple around the holidays, these cookies require one pot and a stove top. These cookies contain dangerously delicious amounts of peanut butter and chocolate, and for a different texture, try making them with Crunchy peanut butter. (via Foodista)

The Real Food Dietitians

Vegan No Bake Brownies

Whip up these egg-free brownies in only 20 minutes! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Vanilla and Bean

Chocolate Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

These bite-size desserts are gluten free and incredible delicious. Bet you can't eat just one! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Completely Delicious

Chocolate Oreo Parfaits

This three-ingredient dessert is so simple and requires no oven! (via Completely Delicious)

Scotcheroo Bar

This classic from Buns in My Ovenis always welcome at large gatherings. Added bonus, you can make a whole pan of these treats in one batch making it a low stress contribution. (via Buns in My Oven)

Triple Chocolate Brownies

The name alone makes us hungry. Anything with that much chocolate has to be delicious. (via Food 52)

Peanut Butter Bar

Another large group friendly recipe, these Peanut Butter Bars from Our Best Bitesare sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, think a giant Reese’s cup. (via Our Best Bites)

Vegan Peanut Butter Cacao Fudge Bars

Yes these amazing looking fudge bars are vegan! That means none of your friends and family have to miss out on the holiday goodies. (via Lunch Box Bunch)

Oreo Truffles

How do dense and delicious little Oreo truffles sound to you? We’re certainly excited about this finger friendly truffle. (via Bakerella)

Chocolate Mousse

No no-bake list would be complete without a mention of mousse. So here is a fabulous chocolate mousse for your palate’s pleasure. (via Food Network)

Homemade Tootsie Rolls

Looking for a sweet gift for that candy lover in your life or maybe just trying to find an easy item to contribute to that holiday party? Look no further! (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Peppermint Fudge

This super simple fudge has color in all the right places. Not to mention the sweet crushed candy cane on top that makes this dessert undeniably festive. (via Shugary Sweets)

Girl Scout No-Bake Holiday Desserts

Thin Mint Cookies

Dreaming about Girl Scout Cookies? Satisfy your crunchy, minty craving by making your own thin mints and if you’re feeling generous, give some as gifts! (via Everyday Reading )

Thin Mint Puppy Chow

What makes the delectable powdered sugary goodness of puppy chow (or muddy buddies) even better? Some mint! (via Shugary Sweets)

Samoa Bars

Okay maybe we’re a little Girl Scout focused but if Thin Mints aren’t your thing why not make Samoa Bars! (via Babble)

No-Bake Holiday Cheesecakes

White Chocolate No-Bake Cheesecake

These very red and white little cheesecakes would add the perfect festive touch to any meal and will wow friends and family! (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Easy No-Bake Cheesecake

Ready to wow the folks at your Holiday table? Knock their socks off with this stunning and simple Cheesecake! (via Just a Taste)

Gingerbread Oreo No Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Oreos, cheesecake, and gingerbread all in one? I think I just died and went to no-bake dessert heaven. (via My Baking Addiction)

No-Bake Holiday Pies

No Bake Mini Grasshopper Pies

We can’t get over how sweet these little desserts are, both visually and to eat! These individual desserts would be a perfect addition to a small dinner party. (Image via A Pretty Life in the Suburbs)

S’More Pie

If you tried our S’More pie and loved it, you’ll love this version as well! It does take longer to make but maybe you could whip up both and have a blind tasting… (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Orange and Cream Pie

To satisfy, dare we say it, the non-chocoholics in the room. This classy pie will be refreshing and sweet. (via Joy the Baker)

Peanut Butter Pie

And the peanut butter just keeps coming! This light and fluffy peanut butter pie will keep Grandpa coming back for seconds. (via One Ordinary Day)

Vegan Walnut Pumpkin Pie

A vegan take on a Holiday classic. This pie is the best of both worlds! (via Lunch Box Bunch)

Miscellaneous No-Bake Holiday Desserts

Vanilla Panna Cotta and Pomegranate Jelly

This elegant dessert requires absolutely no oven and looks amazing in a delicate glass. Make sure the glasses allow easy access for large spoons! (via Inspired Edibles)

Candy Cane Bark

Chaos is key to a gorgeous candy cane bark. Throw everything together and voila! A dessert that’s ready to be gifted. (via Babble)

Oreo Layer Dessert

Cool whip and chocolate pudding, nothings better! This low maintenance dessert is perfect for the dessert maker that prefers to keep things simple. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Banana Pudding with Homemade Salted Caramel

Just in case you’re looking for something a tiny bit old fashioned for a family dinner, give these a try! They are a delicious new take on a sweet classic. (via Just a Taste )

Peanut Butter Banana Granola Bites

If massive amounts of sugar and butter make you squirm, there’s no need to miss out on all the dessert fun. Try these slightly sweet and healthy granola bites! (via Joy the Baker)

Which no-bake holiday dessert recipe will you try before the end of 2024?

Lead image via My Baking Addiction

Valentine's Day is next month, so it's time for a little tough love. Are you ready? Deep breath... You're not going to get far in your relationship by wondering, "What are we doing?" anymore. For such a simple question, it carries the weight of being vague and loaded. It's not that you shouldn't want to know where your relationship is headed, but there are better questions to ask your boyfriend.

From my first relationship to being engaged with an energetic toddler, I know a thing or two about how to broach certain topics. But, I'm no one's expert so I turned to Sean O'Neill, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Director at Maple Moon Recovery, to help you figure out how to get to the heart of your relationship.

Scroll to see which deep questions to ask your boyfriend for a better, healthier relationship!

Andres Ayrton

1. Questions To Ask If You're In The 'Honeymoon' Stage

Whenever we finally move from flirting with our crushes to being in a relationship with them, it's typically followed by a period of euphoria. You and your boyfriend likely can't get enough of each other right now which is probably making your friends playfully roll their eyes. Since everything is brand new, you can still keep it light though.

O'Neill suggests asking "open-ending questions that prompt curiosity and connection:"

  • What's one dream you've never let me in on?
  • What's one little gesture that can make you feel valued?

"These couple of queries facilitate bonding while generating enthusiasm for the goals and interests of each other," he says.

Budgeron Bach

2. Questions To Ask After Your First Big Fight

Even if you and your boyfriend are super tuned in to each other, a disagreement or argument is bound to happen. In case you're worried, your relationship isn't on thin ice because you're not seeing eye-to-eye on something. O'Neill says you can ask:

  • How do you think we handled the argument?
  • What could we do differently next time to make our future fights more productive?

His reasoning is that these questions "promote growth and empathy" so "disagreements are transformed into stronger communication opportunities."

Note: Disagreements should never turn physical. It's not okay for you and your boyfriend to become physically aggressive with each other. If you're concerned about domestic violence, dial the National Domestic Hotline at 1(800) 799-7233.

Keira Burton

3. Questions To Ask Before Introducing Your Boyfriend To Your Parents

Introducing your boyfriend to your parents is a huge step that can be scary and exciting. I was terrified when my parents first met my fiancé because they couldn't stand my ex. But, the conversation between them flowed and everyone always looks for him to be at family events.

If you're ready for introductions to be made, O'Neill wants you to "encourage the normality of preplanned talks" by asking:

  • What is something about me that you think my parents would really love to hear about?

By doing this, he says it'll "help alleviate anxiety and ensure both spouses feel comfortable and attuned before meeting the parents."

Mikhail Nilov

4. Questions To Ask If You Or Your Boyfriend Have An Illness

It's never easy to experience illnesses or health scares, but it can be terrifying if you don't know how to help your partner manage if something unexpected happens. O'Neill says to "nurture insights with queries such as:"

  • What is one thing I could to assist you better when ill?
  • Are there any aspects concerning your healthy that haven't been discussed which make you anxious?

"The conversations provide a safe space for airing concerns while building up mutual support through health difficulties," he adds.

Mikhail Nilov

5. Questions To Ask If You're Worried About Boyfriend's Spending Habits

Financial red flags are always a cause for concern when dating someone — especially when it seems like your boyfriend doesn't care about his spending habits may affect your household if you live together. O'Neill suggests asking:

  • What are your financial goals?
  • How do you see us working towards them together?
  • How do you feel about budgeting as a team?

This will "make goal alignment stronger" because "effective communication about finances can prevent misunderstandings," he says. Also, this helps "lay the foundation for a shared vision of the future."

Bethany Ferr

6. Questions To Ask To Deepen Vulnerability With Each Other

Being vulnerable isn't easy for everyone, let alone two people in a relationship. It took me years to feel comfortable expressing my sadness or fears to my fiancé because I was afraid he'd think I was 'weak.' However, this can cause more harm than good because it becomes difficult for our partners to know what's going on with us if we don't open up.

O'Neill says you can ask:

  • What's one fear or concern you've hesitated to share with anyone before?
  • How can I help you feel safe sharing with me?
These questions "create room for openness and trust between partners" which aids in "helping them connect emotionally," according to him.

Katerina Holmes

7. Questions To Help Move The Relationship Forward

If you're still wondering "what are we doing" after asking some of the above questions, you focus on asking the following "future-oriented questions," according to O'Neill:

  • Where do you see us in 5 years?
  • What's something you envision us doing together as a couple in the future?
"Thinking about what is ahead strengthens commitment to the relationship and brings both partners' goals into line," he says.
Even though my fiancé and I have been together for a while, we still have conversations about our goals, health, raising our son, and more. It helps us to either stay aligned or see what needs to be addressed as opposed to letting physical attraction guide the way we feel 95% of the time.

But that's not all! We have more advice about relationships if you're looking to build a deeper connection yourself, friends, or family in 2025!

If you’re a trueTrader Joe’s fan, you probably already carry your pickle tote bag everywhere. And, of course, you can’t forget the frenzy for the-ever stylish Trader Joe’s mini tote bags! TJ’s is here to shake (or, rather, shred) things up with an all-new tote bag design – and it’s super cheesy.

Trader Joe’s

That’s right – Trader Joe’s latest and greatest tote bag design (which you can shop from end caps near the TJ’s checkout lines) features all things cheese! Any charcuterie, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and pizza lover will immediately fall in love with it.

Eme Estevez / Dupe

The tote is covered in “charmingly cheesy” illustrations of all the varieties of cheese Trader Joe’s has to offer. They’re perfectly colorful and bold, so you’ll adore looking at it every time you make a grocery trip.

Fans are calling the new design "sooo cuteee" and "un-brie-lieveable." One Instagram user even said, "now that’s a tote worth getting if you are cheeseboard obsessed. 🥳🥳🥳"

Jayda Anderson / Dupe

The bag is certifiably heavy duty, made of 100% cotton, and features reinforced seams with two handles long enough to hang comfortably on your shoulder – perfect for you if you walk to your nearest Trader Joe’s instead of driving there! It measures 18.5 by 13.5 inches to carry all the snacks, frozen meals, and beverages your heart desires.

Trader Joe’s

My favorite part of this new TJ’s tote is that it’s also covered in tons of cheese puns, which are quite “pun-gent,” per Trader Joe’s.

The cheese puns in question? “I’m wheel excited to be here. You cheddar believe it. To brie, or not to brie. I am fondue you. Life’s so gouda.” I’m a firm believer that everyone loves a good pun, so this bag is an instant source of entertainment.

Alexy Almond / PEXELS

The new Trader Joe’s cheese tote bags are just $4 each. I’ll definitely be snagging one for myself and a few more to share with the TJ’s lovers in my life!

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