Christmas
Prepping for Christmas goes way beyond shopping for gifts. Of course, the presents are nice—but an entire month of festivities is what really makes the season so merry. Once December rolls around, it’s time to kick your shopping, decorating, and baking efforts into high gear. Get yourself in the spirit by lighting a woodsy or seasonally scented candle. The scent of the season wafting through your home is sure to inspire your creativity as you finalize those Christmas party ideas (there is, in fact, a scientific reason why the holidays smell so good). Then, pop in one of your favorite holidays movies and pick out some festive Christmas crafts to create. Don’t forget to spend some time finalizing your holiday menu a week or two ahead of the event—there are plenty of make-ahead recipes that will help you relax and enjoy the party just as much as your guests are. And, don’t worry, we have plenty of gift ideas, too, so you can cross that off your to-do list, as well.
20 Easy Cake Recipes
Baking a cake from scratch doesn’t have to be daunting—try one of these easy recipes for crumb cake, cheesecake, chocolate cake, and more.
8 Bite-Sized Appetizers You Can Make in a Mini Muffin Tin
Turn that novelty bakeware into a kitchen workhorse.
How to Stack and Frost a Layer Cake
Get our tips and tricks for stacking and frosting a beautiful, professional-looking cake every time.
Boyfriend Gift Ideas for Every Type of Guy
Not sure what to get the man in your life this year? Try these budget-friendly picks from our 2016 Holiday Gift Guide. Or, find more great gifts for everyone on your list here.
4 Cookies You Can Make With a Box of Puff Pastry
Don’t flake: Keep a box or two in the freezer and you’ll always be ready for an impromptu cookie swap.
How to Make a Moscow Mule
This 3-ingredient cocktail never fails to satisfy.
Gingersnap Baked Alaska Pie
This impressive twist on a traditional Baked Alaska is sure to satisfy all your holiday guests—the cookie lovers, the pie fanatics, and the ice cream die-hards, too. We’re suckers for coffee ice cream (and it pairs wonderfully with the warm spices in the gingersnaps), but feel free to use any flavor you please. In the summer, try a graham cracker crust and chocolate ice cream for a tasty take on s’mores. The key to success here is creating a stiff meringue, so be sure to pay attention to the indicators in the recipe. To test whether you’ve achieved stiff peaks, remove the whisk attachment from the mixer and hold it upright. The meringue should hold its peak and not droop down the sides.
How to Teach Your Kids Gift-Receiving Etiquette
Let’s be honest: Not every holiday present is going to elicit the reaction a Hatchimals might. Some will be downright disappointing. But you don’t have to end up in an embarrassing situation, where your little one stands there in stunned silence (or, worse, voices the disappointment out loud). Parent Hacks author Asha Dornfest shares three tips for teaching kids how to graciously receive any gift.
5 Genius Ways to Style a Bar Cart for Every Occasion
It’s a serving station when you’re entertaining, a display spot when you’re not. Here are five top-shelf setups.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas
They’re hanging from the chimney with care, it’s time to fill them with these festive and inexpensive treats. See more great gifts for everyone on your list.