A Note on ‘What I Eat in a Day’ Videos

On the flip side, most of us can relate to the tendency to compare our own eating habits to those of others, and one thing I’ve learned for sure through my years of research on diet and nutrition? There’s no one-size-fits-all “perfect diet” for anyone. The idea of bio-individuality is that each person has unique health needs and that our bodies react differently to various foods—which means that we can’t assume that just because one way of eating makes one person feel their best, it’s the best for us, too. Each of us has to discover our optimal diet by listening to our bodies, observing how we feel when we eat certain foods, and getting in tune with our own hunger and fullness signals.

With that as our foundation, I hope that my WIEIAD below sparks creative ideas in the kitchen, provides you with a few new recipes to try, and inspires you to keep it easy when life gets busy. And if you’re experimenting with a Paleo, Grain-Free, or Gluten-Free way of eating, these meal ideas have got you covered.

Watch the video, then scroll on for the sources and links that I mention. And if you have any questions, be sure to drop a comment on the Youtube episode. (And subscribe to our channel if you’re enjoying it!) Scroll on for everything I ate in a day for a healthy gut—the grain-free, no-bloat edition.

Why eliminate grains?

I want to be very clear from the beginning: Grains are not “bad.” Pizza is not “bad.” Sourdough bread is not “bad.” This is all about how specific foods make you feel, and I for one want to be eating in a way that supports my overall health. For my particular digestive system — and I’m learning, a lot of other people’s too — grains can be very hard on the GI tract, and there are a lot of hidden intolerances. This is a little more all-encompassing than a gluten-free diet, and it’s different than having celiac disease or a gluten-intolerance. Eating “grain-free” means eliminating gluten and wheat, and also corn, oats, quinoa, rice, buckwheat, rye, amaranth, and barley.

I share a lot more in my article about the effects of a grain-free diet on gut health, but to make a very long story short: when I stopped eating grains, my longstanding digestive symptoms went away. And I’m not the only one: Dr. William Davis says in his book Super Gut (which I highly recommend for anyone dealing with unresolved digestive issues):

“Wheat and grain elimination removes an extravagant source of intestinal inflammation and begins the process of healing your GI tract. ”

What I eat in a day for a healthy gut

Now that we’ve established the why, let’s talk about what I’m actually eating! Read on for 24 (delicious and nourishing) hours in my life:

Wake up

First thing: I make a pot of coffee. I prep it the night before so that all I have to do is hit the “power” button for it to start brewing. Lately, I’ve been adding some steamed pistachio milk which adds a little sweetness without any actual sugar.

I drink my coffee during my journaling/morning routine time, then mix up my daily dose of AG1 to sip on while I help the kids get ready for school. I love that AG1 gives me a potent burst of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics first thing and lays the foundation for good eating choices ahead.

Solstice Mug

The mug I drink from every day!

$40

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AG1

If you want to try AG1, they’re giving our readers a FREE one-year supply of AG Vitamin D3+K2, plus five AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase of AG1.

at AG1

Breakfast: Grain-Free Zucchini Muffins

I’ve been very focused on getting protein in the morning lately. Getting sufficient protein at your first meal of the day plays an important role in hormone regulation and blood sugar balance. Today it’s one of my Grain-Free Zucchini Muffins—I made a big batch of them on the weekend and popped in the freezer for easy breakfasts all week. To rewarm, I just pop it into the microwave on 50% power for about 90 seconds and top with a little butter. I also ate some strawberries and blackberries for a fiber boost.

All Day Water

Every morning, I fill up my big water bottle with filtered water, then I add a packet of Sunfiber (a prebiotic/probiotic blend that nourishes good gut bacteria—it’s invisible and completely tasteless) and a packet of LMNT electrolytes which helps me stay high energy and makes my water taste really good which keeps me sipping all day. I’m a fan of all the flavors, but watermelon is probably my top choice.

Lunch: Tex-Mex Nourish Bowl

For lunch, I made a nourish bowl with Tex-Mex flavors. Since most nourish bowls use grains as a base, I used cauliflower rice instead—and didn’t miss the grains in this meal at all. Even if you’re not sensitive to grains like I am, the more you can fill your plate with veggies and protein, the more nutrient-dense your meals are going to be.

When I’m making a nourish bowl, I like to incorporate a cooked veggie, some raw veggies, a protein, something creamy like goat cheese or avocado, and then something crunchy like seeds or nuts or crispy chickpeas. And then I’ll do a dressing of some kind—sometimes I make one but today I used this Primal Kitchen one that I love.

Afternoon Snack: Pears with Cottage Cheese

For a snack, I am a huge fan of toast with all the delish toppings, and back when I was eating grains, toast with cottage cheese was a go-to protein snack for me. Since typical bread is now off the table, I’ve been looking for other healthy ways to satisfy those cravings. Turns out that a crunchy sliced pear is a really great vessel for cottage cheese and granola.

Dinner: Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

This vegetarian chili is one of my favorite cozy recipes for cold days. I’m always on the hunt for dishes that are packed with nutrition, can be easily reheated, fit a variety of dietary needs, and most importantly, are incredibly delicious. Especially since several of my friends are either vegetarian or gluten-free. Thankfully this vegetarian chili checks off every single box.

I’m actually doubling up the recipe and making some to take to my friend Claire who just had a baby. This is such a great meal to take to friends in need because it’s so nourishing and it fits pretty much every dietary restriction. And it makes great leftovers—they can truly just keep it in the fridge and warm it up whenever they’re ready to eat.

Bedtime Snack

I try to avoid mindless snacking at bedtime, but I also cannot stand to go to bed hungry, so I just try to listen to my body and eat something if I feel like I need it. I always have a cup of tea (decaf chai or bedtime tea) with a little steamed pistachio milk or whole milk, which usually does the trick. On this particular night, I also ate a handful of Chocolate-Peanut Butter Skinny Dipped Almonds which I’m newly obsessed with.

Goodnight!

The post What I Eat in a Day for a Healthy Gut—Grain-Free, No Bloat Edition (Video!) appeared first on Camille Styles.

Materials and metals like aluminum, plastic, lead, and Teflon can pose serious risks to your health and are prevalent in a lot of cookware options. And if the cookware we constantly use is dishing out harmful toxins, we are doing ourselves and all that effort a disservice. So toss the toxic pots and pans and check out our guide to the best non-toxic cookware ahead.

Toxic Cookware to Toss

Traditional Non-Stick Coatings

Teflon is the trademarked coating that makes non-stick cookware non-stick. It’s incredibly convenient and was a game-changer for cooking when it was introduced around 80 years ago. The issue is that these coatings (which contain compounds like PFOA or PTFE), are highly toxic and have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, organ failure, reproductive damage, and other health issues. (Check out the film Dark Waters and the documentary The Devil We Know for a deeper dive into the health risks.)

Newer nonstick coatings, like Teflon, technically no longer contain PFOA and PFOS. But you want to keep an eye out for Teflon cookware that was made before 2013 as it could still contain these dangerous chemicals. And while most Teflon-coated pans these days are PFOA-free, this often means that they still contain PTFE (PFOA or C8, which is used to make PTFE coating, and as we discussed, is considered a carcinogen). On top of that, high heat causes the chemicals to break down, releasing toxic fumes. Additionally, PFOAs and PTFEs don’t biodegrade, which means they can accumulate in our bodies increasing the risk of damage.

Aluminum

There is some debate over whether aluminum is safe. Aluminum exists in our environment and we all have some amount of aluminum exposure daily. However, research shows that aluminum is toxic at certain levels. Elevated aluminum levels have been linked to everything from anemia and other blood disorders, to ALS and Parkinson’s to cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurological problems.

Healthier Non-Toxic Cookware Swaps

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Ceramic coated

Not all ceramic coatings are made equal. Skimp on the cheap ceramic coatings and instead look for one that’s certified by third-party testing and free of PFAs, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. All of us at Camille Styles are obsessed with Figmint, Target’s new line of functional (and super stylish) cookware. While the collection features cast-iron and stainless steel pots and pans, it’s the ceramic-coated sets that have our hearts. The 12-piece set is great for everyday, medium-heating cooking—think eggs, rice, and your daily essentials. They’re nonstick, super affordable for non-toxic cookware, and hold up so well. And can we talk about the color options? So good.

Target

Figmint 12pc Nonstick Ceramic Coated Aluminum Cookware Set

$180

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Caraway

Deluxe Cookware Set

Overhaul your kitchen all at once with this 7-piece Cookware Set plus a 3-piece set of mini sidekicks. They’re non-toxic, they’re non-stick, and (bonus) they look pretty on the stove.

Click here to get 28% off this set!

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Crate&Barrel

GreenPan Padova 10-Piece Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set

$299.95

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Our Place

Our Place Always Pan 2.0

$150

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Is Ceramic Cookware safe?

Ceramic is great as it’s completely inert—meaning it won’t leach any harmful toxins. Ceramic non-toxic cookware pans are generally free of heavy metals, polymers, coatings, and dyes, plus, they’re dishwasher safe! Easier to wash than cast iron, you can just use warm soapy water. If you’re interested in trying, Xtrema is a great brand to check out. A note: you do have to be more careful with these pans, as they’re more fragile than other types of pots and pans.

xtrema

Signature Skillet

$84.99

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Stainless steel

Not all stainless steel is created equal. When shopping you will see numbers like 200, 304, 316, and 430—the higher the number the stronger, longer-lasting it is, and the less nickel content it will have. Be sure to use gentle cleaners as something harsher can damage the lining, which then can allow the heavy metals in the core to leach into your food.

Material

The Sauce Pot

$115

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Williams Sonoma

All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Stainless-Steel Traditional Covered Fry Pan

$129.95

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Cast iron

This is the OG non-toxic cookware. They take a bit of time to get used to if you’ve never tried them, but work so well once you figure it out and are budget-friendly! Some tips: heat before adding food, avoid soap when cleaning, and season regularly. (Check out this post for tips for seasoning.) There are many methods for cleaning cast irons, but my go-to is scrubbing with some salt and rinsing with water. I then dry it thoroughly, drizzle with cooking oil, spread it around, and then set it on low heat for a bit to ensure the pan is completely dry.

Williams Sonoma

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 10″

$27.95

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Williams Sonoma

Lodge Seasoned 5-Qt. Cast Iron Dutch Oven

$59.95

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Glass

The main perk of glass cookware is that there are tons of budget-friendly glass options out there, Pyrex being the most common one. You can find everything from baking dishes, to round soup dishes to loaf pans.

Wiliams Sonoma

Pyrex Deep Glass Bakeware

$13.99

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Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is sometimes used for frying pans and woks. The non-toxic cookware option is similar to cast iron, and can output small amounts of iron into food, which is great if you happen to have someone with slight anemia in your home!

Williams Sonoma

Lodge Seasoned Carbon Steel Skillet 12″

$49.95

Shop Now

Porcelain Enamel

Enameled non-toxic cookware is usually made of cast iron that has been coated in enamel (think Le Creuset). While not perfect in terms of low heavy-metal content, I’d say this is one of the “better” options. The perk of this cookware is that it won’t rust, in contrast, to cast irons, if not properly seasoned. Cleaning is super easy with mild soap, water, and a gentle scrub pad. It is a bit on the pricier side, but your investment will last you a long time!

Williams Sonoma

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet Fry Pan

$175+

Shop Now

Crate&Barrel

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid

$419.95

Shop Now

The post Our Favorite Non-Toxic Cookware—Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Camille Styles.

We’re leaving the Sunday Scaries in 2023 and learning to love the end of the week for all it brings. Contrary to what your anxiety may tell you, Sundays are the perfect opportunity to reset. Lean into your favorite comfort foods, or try your hand at a new recipe. Whether you’ve established rituals or plan to embrace the unknown, these Sunday night dinner ideas are suitable for any and every vibe.

What makes a good Sunday night dinner?

There are several components that can set your Sunday night dinner apart from your weekday meals. Most importantly, I love leaning into coziness and comfort at the end of my week and making sure there are plenty of leftovers to munch on the next day. (Because let’s be honest, Mondays can come at us way too quickly). What’s more, the majority of these recipes can be prepped in advance and saved for up to a week in the fridge. I call that Sunday night dinner ideas, perfected.

15 Sunday Night Dinner Ideas for Every Weekend Vibe

If you’re ready to transform your home into a place of comfort and calm at the end of your week, these Sunday night dinner ideas are exactly what you’ve been looking for. Read on for our top picks, from creamy pasta dishes to slow cooker classics.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Why We Love It: Potato pasta… how could one dish be more perfect for a Sunday night supper? I could eat gnocchi every day, but this recipe with brown butter and sage is one of the best variations I’ve ever discovered. If you’re a sweet potato connoisseur like me, this dish is the best way to create a rich and decadent dinner that everyone will love.

Hero Ingredient: Haven’t mastered browned butter yet? This is your chance! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Vegetarian Lentil Chili

Why We Love It: Chili is a Sunday classic, but all the red meat can sometimes take its toll. That being said, this plant-based alternative is great for both vegetarians and those looking for a lighter option. Made with lentils, beans, and your favorite chili toppings, it’s a feast that will leave everyone happy and full.

Hero Ingredient: Fresh jalepeños are the perfect bit of heat.

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Why We Love It: Sundays can be the perfect day to load up on carbs as fuel for the week ahead. This butternut squash pasta recipe is a healthier alternative to your typical grains and is gluten and dairy-free. Need I say more?

Hero Ingredient: Chickpea pasta is an “in” for 2024.

Zucchini Pasta

Why We Love It: With sweet caramelized squash and a variety of herbs, this pasta dish is a one-pot wonder. Combine rigatoni (or your favorite pasta) with the rich summer squash for a bowl full of nutty, creamy, and bright flavor.

Hero Ingredient: Red pepper and pasta go hand-in-hand.

Cauliflower Tikka Masala

Why We Love It: Tikka masala is one of my all-time favorite cozy dishes for when the weather starts to cool down. The spice blend, featuring coriander, cumin, garam masala, and turmeric, is one that always satisfies my taste buds. This meatless recipe replaces the chicken with cauliflower as its base. It makes for a meal that’s equally as tasty as the classic.

Hero Ingredient: Greek yogurt acts as a creamy base to temper the spicy heat.

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Why We Love It: Sunday is usually the day that I want to indulge in a cuisine I don’t normally get to enjoy during the week. Italian-inspired dishes can make for some of the coziest meals, and this Zuppa Toscana soup is no exception. With soft potatoes, Italian sausage, and fresh kale, each bite will transport you straight to the Italian countryside.

Hero Ingredient: This soup is served best with a warm, fresh loaf of bread. Not exactly an ingredient, but an essential nonetheless.

Vegetarian Coq au Vin

Why We Love It: Coq au Vin is a French dish filled with a variety of cozy and savory ingredients that make it the perfect small-batch Sunday night dinner idea. Made with red wine, mushrooms, and a blend of fresh herbs, this vegetarian take on a traditionally chicken-centered dish keeps things lighter with all of the same flavors.

Hero Ingredient: Lentils add a little heft to this French-inspired favorite.

Vegan Red Pepper Pasta with Charred Corn & Basil

Why We Love It: I’m a big fan of just about any dish involving red pepper, and this pasta is one of my favorites. Veggies are the star of this show, creating a bowl of nourishing ingredients while still maintaining a cozy feel.

Hero Ingredient: Cashews are every vegan’s secret to a creamy sauce.

Vegetable Lasagna

Why We Love It: If you’re looking for a one-pan dish to satisfy all your Sunday night dinner needs, make this vegetable lasagna on repeat. It’s a satisfying balance of nutritious and hearty ingredients that’s so much simpler than you’d think.

Hero Ingredient: Don’t you dare skimp on the garlic-infused butter.

Tortellini Soup

Why We Love It: Sundays are for soup—no argument. This tortellini soup is one of my cold-weather favorites but can be enjoyed year-round whenever you need an extra dose of cozy. Top with rich parmesan cheese and you’ve got yourself a warm bowl of deliciousness. Bonus: you can freeze this soup to enjoy next Sunday, too.

Hero Ingredient: Fresh or pre-made, good quality tortellini is a must.

Skillet Eggplant Lasagna

Why We Love It: Pulling out my cast iron skillet has become a weekend tradition in my house. There’s something about the presentation and cooking method that makes it the perfect way to curate cozy and warm dishes. This eggplant lasagna is a lighter version of your favorite Italian dish and cooks so elegantly in a skillet.

Hero Ingredient: Eggplant, of course!

Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs

Why We Love It: I could never say no to a bowl of spaghetti and meatballs at the end of the week. This vegan take on the classic recipe isn’t too filling but delivers the perfect amount of warmth and flavor.

Hero Ingredient: The secret to these meatless meatballs? Cannellini beans!

Braised Indian Chickpea Stew

Why We Love It: Whether it’s a beef stew, veggie stew, or any member of the stew family, I always love indulging in variations of this one-pot meal on Sunday nights. This chickpea stew with an Indian-inspired twist delivers the perfect creamy-to-spicy ratio I’m always striving for in my coziest meals.

Hero Ingredient: Top with a bit of cilantro for freshness in every bite.

Cheesy Pesto Gnocchi Skillet

Why We Love It: Another delicious skillet recipe, this cheesy blend of gnocchi and nutty pesto makes it hard to put down your fork. The best part? This recipe uses plenty of nutrient-rich spinach, helping you get your greens without a boring side salad.  

Hero Ingredient: Cream cheese adds a nice little tang to balance out this rich dinner.

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Why We Love It: Stuffed mushrooms are a highly underrated Sunday night dinner idea. But the right filling is essential to keep the meal from being boring and bland. These mushrooms are stuffed with spinach, onions, and parmesan, and topped with creamy mozzarella and breadcrumbs. Needless to say—they’re anything but boring.

Hero Ingredient: Caramelized onions are *chef’s kiss.*

The post 15 Cozy Recipes to Bookmark for Sunday Night Dinner appeared first on Camille Styles.

Turns out, eating a grain-free diet healed the gut health issues that have affected me for the last decade. For years, I’ve been plagued with digestive issues that have sent me to countless doctors and practitioners, and surprisingly, simply removing grains from my diet eliminated all my symptoms within days. So today, I’m going to share the biggest changes I’ve seen in my health since going grain-free. My hope is that my story could help some of you on your own health journeys because I believe we all deserve to be living our most high-energy and vibrant lives.

First, watch the video below where I walk you through my journey—I also get into some of the “bonus” healthy habits I’ve been incorporating every day to feel the best I’ve felt in YEARS. Then, scroll on for some of my top grain-free diet and gut health learnings:

Grain-free diet and gut health

If you know me, you know that much of my life revolves around food. I’m a passionate cook, I love to eat, and I create recipe and food content for a living. I’ve always preached the philosophy that there’s room for everything in your diet—and I still believe that—unless those foods are preventing you from living your most vibrant and energized life.

The ONE thing I’ve learned in my years of research about nutrition is that there is no one-size fits all diet. I want to be very clear from the beginning: Grains are not “bad.” Pizza is not “bad.” Sourdough bread is not “bad.” This is all about how specific foods make you feel, and I for one want to be eating in a way that supports my overall health. For my particular digestive system — and I’m learning, a lot of other people’s too — grains can be very hard on the GI tract, and there are a lot of hidden intolerances. This is a little more all-encompassing than a gluten-free diet, and it’s different than having celiac disease or a gluten-intolerance. Eating “grain-free” means eliminating gluten and wheat, and also corn, oats, quinoa, rice, buckwheat, rye, amaranth, and barley.

Dr. William Davis says in his book Super Gut (which I highly recommend for anyone dealing with unresolved digestive issues):

“Wheat and grain elimination removes an extravagant source of intestinal inflammation and begins the process of healing your GI tract. ”

He goes on to explain:

Gliadin (a protein found in wheat) is directly toxic to the intestinal wall. Removing gliadin thereby removes a potent bowel toxin. Gliadin also breaks down normal intestinal barriers, allowing foreign substances, including gliadin itself, entry into the bloodstream…

Just as opioid drugs such as oxycodone and morphine cause constipation, so do gliadin-derived opioids slow intestinal peristalsis and cause constipation. Slowed peristalsis is a major issue in many cases of SIBO, and it can be reversed in the majority with wheat and grain elimination… Just by eliminating all wheat and grains, many people report complete relief or marked improvement of bowel urgency, acid reflux, heartburn, and constipation.”

My gut health history

One thing I haven’t shared a lot about on the internet (until now) is my long-standing gut health issues. Yes, talking about sluggish digestion and extreme bloating is personal, but statistics show that nearly half of women struggle with digestive issues, so I think it’s time we normalize these conversations.

I actually don’t know the cause of my digestive issues. After seeing functional doctors, GI doctors, and undergoing lots of testing—no one has ever been able to give me an actual diagnosis (which is the case for most people suffering from digestive issues.) So like so many of you, I’m left to act as my own guinea pig and keep searching for something to help me feel better. And let me tell you, I have tried some things, including: 

• Basically every supplement and probiotic on the market
• Intermittent fasting 
• Food combining
• At-home SIBO tests
• Making my own probiotic yogurt
• Colonics
• Hypnotherapy – yes, there is actually a school of hypnotherapy that claims to be able to heal the gut-brain axis and when you read about it, it makes a lot of sense, but it didn’t help me.
• Tons of different elimination diets to see if it was a food allergy (no gluten, dairy, lectins, meat, night shades—but never cutting out all grains altogether). 

Even after all that, I still struggled with the same issues. I would sometimes think that I found a solution and then I would end up right back where I started, dealing with the same old issues for weeks on end.

What happened when I stopped eating grains

The solution came during one of my worst bouts of continuous bloating and sluggish digestion. I was re-reading Super Gut and came to the line where Dr. Davis said, “Removing wheat and grains yields substantial improvements in GI health that aid in your efforts to reverse dysbiosis, SIBO, and SIFO and regain overall health.”

Since I’d tried just about everything else, I figured, what did I have to lose? So, starting that very day, I didn’t eat any grains at all. It may sound restrictive, but thankfully I love so many things that aren’t in this category: fruits, vegetables, cheese, olive oil, avocados, meat, fish, pasta made with chickpeas.

I was still eating deliciously and abundantly, and here’s the part that is SO crazy I would not have believed it if I hadn’t experienced it personally: within 48 hours, my gut health issues that had plagued me for over a decade were completely resolved. And stayed that way. Over the next 3 months, I followed my grain-free diet and felt better than I had in years. My energy was sky high, I slept great, I had a normal appetite instead of feeling uncomfortably full all the time, and my stomach was flatter than I could ever remember (even though I hadn’t actually lost weight.) I felt amazing. 

Will I ever eat grains again?

The truthful answer is: I don’t know. Being the food lover that I am, I have tried reincorporating some of my favorites. The first thing I tried was corn, because, living in Austin—tacos are life. Our family went out for Mexican, I ate some delicious corn tortillas, and… the next morning, my digestion was off. So I got back on the grain-free wagon and within about a day, I was back on track.

The next thing I tried—a few bites of pizza, which I’m gonna admit, is my favorite food. But again, I woke up the next morning feeling the old bloat and I realized that no matter how good a few bites of pizza tasted in the moment, it wasn’t worth it for me to feel sluggish and gross all day. I loved the new way that I was feeling SO MUCH, that giving up some foods, even foods that I loved, was 100% worth it to feel this good.

And that brings us to the present! I think that I’ll try reintroducing grains in the future to see what happens, but right now I feel so good, I’m gonna stay off grains for the foreseeable future. It’s important for me to transparently share my journey with you because, although going grain-free may not work for everyone, I hope it can help someone. If you have unresolved gut issues, why not try eliminating grains for a week and just see how you feel?

***

Our gut health has a massive impact on our mood and energy levels, so taking time to figure out what works for your body is WORTH IT. And if you’re one of the many people also struggling with gut health issues, I promise that you really can feel great again. Keep looking for answers and experimenting until you find what works for you.

Leave me a comment if this resonates—I’d love to hear about your struggles in this area, what’s worked for you, and if you’d like to hear more about my grain-free journey! I have so many recipes and meal planning tips for this way of eating that I would love to share.

The post This One Simple Dietary Change Healed My Gut Health Issues (Video!) appeared first on Camille Styles.

If you’re ready to sleep better, ditch the brain fog, and step into every day with more energy—join the party. Trust me, the best non-alcoholic drinks have come a long way. They’re bubbly, tasty, and just might rival your favorite glass of pinot. Skeptical? Pour a glass, then we’ll talk.

Featured image by Joann Pai.

The Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Sip This Season

We’re coming off the holiday season and still riding the high of a new year. There’s no better time to reflect on how we’d like to show up for the rest of 2024. Do your intentions include avoiding hangovers at all costs? You’re in good company. Between canned mocktails and sophisticated NA wines, I guarantee you’ll find a new favorite ahead.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Best Non-Alcoholic Wines

NON

Let me introduce you to one of my new favorites. When I’ve tried non-alcoholic wines in the past, every bottle has come with zero nuance (I’m talking straight-up grape juice). Thankfully, the times are changing, and when you’re craving something full of distinct flavor, minus the booze, NON is a go-to. Not only do the minimalist bottles look undeniably chic on your shelf, but the real, natural ingredients are a perfect happy hour pour. Non5 is my favorite bottle, drawing upon tart and citrusy flavors that taste beautiful on their own or paired with your best curry.

Non5 Lemon Marmalade & Hibiscus

$30 at Non

Proxies

Another favorite, Proxies has made a name for itself in the space, holding its own as countless brands have flooded the market. I stick mainly to Pinot Noir and red blends as the temperatures cool, and Proxies’ Red Ember is my favorite bottle to warm up with. Expect a complex sip that pairs big and bold flavors with a deep, dark sweetness that touches upon all the nuance of black pepper, cayenne, and coffee. Wherever you fall on the Dry-ish January spectrum, Proxies will satisfy.

Dry Jan Starter Set

$150 at Proxies

Kally

Come for the gorgeous labels, stay for the satisfying bubbles. (And come back again, because Kally makes a great gift.) I love a vibrant, crisp non-alcoholic wine alternative, and Kally is the best. The brand produces its beverages using verjus—the tart juice of early-harvested Chardonnay grapes—as the base for every bottle. From there, it’s infused and layered with a blend of herbs, botanicals, and teas for a resulting flavor that’s wonderfully complex.

The Golden Sparkler is my favorite and the best NA substitute for champagne. It’s sparkly, elegant, and made with zero grams of added sugar. Here’s to enjoying our bubbles minus the headache.

Golden Sparkler

$40 at Kally

Allay

While I love that some zero-proof beverages taste exactly like (or even better than) the *real* thing, Allay is something else altogether. It’s fruity, floral, and always a delight. And let’s chat about the functional edge it boasts as well. Expect ingredients like ashwagandha and reishi to give your glass a stress-relieving, immune-supporting boost.

Functional Non-Alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon

$25.20 (reg. $28) at Allay

Best Non-Alcoholic Spirits, Mocktails, and Ciders

Seedlip

Seedlip was one of the earlier non-alcoholic spirits I tried, but within the past few months, I’ve seen it offered at bars, restaurants, and served at many events from baby showers to product launches. If you’re used to a gin and tonic or a vodka soda, give this one a try. Their variety pack of flavors lets you experiment a bit with a good soda water or sparkling water.

Seedlip Spice 94

$31.99 at Seedlip

Duché de Longueville Cider

This is not the Marintelli’s you sipped on at family gatherings as a kid. Whereas most NA ciders are overly sweet and cloying, Duché de Longueville is a refined, fresh-tasting cider that pairs perfectly with any elegant meal. I popped a bottle of it on Christmas Eve and all my guests were asking for a second pour. It’s fruity, but still sophisticated and crisp thanks to the unique blend of French apples and elements of influence from the Normandy terroir. I’ll serve and bring a bottle to any gathering that calls for something special.

Duché de Longueville French Sparkling Cider

$10.99 at Bine & Vine

Figlia

I first tried the brand this fall, and the Fiore immediately sold me. The flavors are creative and lush, drawing floral influence from Italian gardens and capturing the bitter bite of a spritz sipped as a pre-dinner aperitivo. It’s perfect poured over ice with a simple orange peel for garnish. I love sipping Figlia while I’m cooking dinner and transitioning from the workday.

001. Fiore

$43 at Figlia

Ghia

When I took my first sip of Ghia, I couldn’t believe I was actually drinking a non-alcoholic beverage. Their mix topped with a splash of sparkling water tastes like the perfect summer spritz. They also have a fun selection of mixes or ready-to-drink cans with fun flavors inspired by the Mediterranean. I was happy to see this one around several bars and retailers.

Original Apéritif

$38 at Ghia

De Soi

While most celebrities are going all-in on the tequila game, Katy Perry went the apértif (and adaptogenic) route utilizing botanicals to emulate a spritz. While most beverage companies rely on synthetic ingredients for taste, De Soi uses fruit juices and mushrooms for flavor—and function. Sample the brand’s variety of flavors with the Starter Pack. I’m partial to the newest addition, Très Rosé that perfectly encapsulates the crisp, refreshing, and fruity flavors of my favorite wine. But instead of a hangover, you get all the mood-boosting benefits of lion’s mane and saffron.

Starter Pack Cans

$74.80 (reg. $88)

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Kin Euphorics

Infused with adaptogens and nootropics, Kin is a “daily brain care ritual designed to help you connect to your center and find better balance.” A non-alcoholic drink focused on helping calm the brain and promoting relaxation? Yes, please. You can find these by the can or as a pre-mix at specialty convenience stores and cafés. Use their store locator to find a stockist near you.

Variety Pack

$69 at Kin Euphorics

Recess

Recess entered the scene with its vibey branding and adaptogen-infused sparkling water, but it’s stealing the show with its release of craft mocktails. Select from Margarita, Paloma, Mojito, or Mule—or better yet, stock your fridge with them all. With functional ingredients like guayusa, L-theanine, and lemon balm, expect a mood boost and a healthy dose of chill.

The Zero Proof Sampler

$29.99 at Recess

Hiyo

Nootropics, adaptogens, and functional botanicals, hiyo delivers what the brand calls “the float”—its signature stress-relieving, mood-boosting lift. With this variety pack, you can expect everything from cordyceps to ginger and lion’s mane. If you’re looking to step up your wellness game while also indulging in a satisfying sipper, make hiyo your zero-proof brand of choice.

Hiyo Blackberry Lemon Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Social Tonic (4 pack)

$15 at Boisson

Cann

Branded as a “cannabis-infused social tonic,” Cann is for those who enjoy a little buzz without a full-on hangover. The classic Canns contain 2mg of THC and 4mg of CBD, creating what the brand calls a “relaxing-yet-sociable buzz.” Each can is microdosed with just the right amount of THC, giving you a pleasant buzz without going overboard.

The Starter Pack

$72 at Cann

Nowadays

For those who prefer not to drink alcohol but still enjoy a little buzz, Nowadays is another brand that delivers a premium experience. The cannabis-infused spirit comes in two different strengths, 2mg or 6mg THC per serving. As someone who likes a light, social vibe, I find the Micro Dose (2mg) to be perfect. Expect to feel the effects about 15 minutes after taking, and you’ll still wake up feeling clear-headed and energized in the morning. While you can simply enjoy a shot over ice, the brand also offers tons of recipes to experiment with. (I’m partial to the Chilled Heat.)

Micro Dose

$39.99 at Nowadays

Whistle Pig

I’ll admit, I’ve never been a whiskey girl until I tried Whistle Pig. And while I’d still consider it a once-in-a-blue-moon bevvy, I did love that the smoky flavor was tempered with a hazy aroma. I had a bottle at Christmas and I can confirm that my dad and brother-in-law were both fans. It’s sweetened with an earthy, caramel-like maple syrup (the real, good stuff) and features non-psychoactive cannabis terpenes to support emotional wellness and provide a calm, happy vibe. And as a born and raised New Englander, I trust anything that comes from Vermont.

Dank & Dry Old Fashioned

$49.99 at Whistle Pig

Apothékary

Apothékary was one of my favorite wellness brands I encountered in 2023, and it’s continuing to surprise and delight this year. The thoughtfully crafted, clean herbal tinctures combine a host of benefits, including everything from stress relief to gut support to boosted energy and immunity. Made from real plants, every bottle contains a potent herbal experience. I’ve been loving the Rosé-Tinted Glasses as a wine alternative. Ingredients like hibiscus, schisandra berry, and ginseng provide a calm, present energy while reducing stress. It’s exactly what you want from your glass of rosé—with skin-boosting benefits to boot.

Rosé-Tinted Glasses

$39 at Apothékary

The post Doing Dry January? These Are the Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Sip All Month Long appeared first on Camille Styles.

Our 2023 Best Recipes—Vibrant Salads, Zingy Cocktails, and More

Our top 15 recipes include bright colors and bold flavors—from citrusy cocktails to nourishing salads, you’ll want to bookmark these. We hope that 2023 brought you just as much joy in the kitchen as these recipes have brought us—cheers to a new year of delicious eating.

Salty Dog Cocktail

Why We Love It: Our most popular recipe of the year (and for good reason), this vodka cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser. With a salted rim, tangy grapefruit juice, and the perfect bit of fizz from sparkling water, it’s a balanced bev while still bringing a bit of boozy.

Hero Ingredient: You can’t make a salty dog without fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice.

Simple Green Salad Inspired By Via Carota

Why We Love It: Simplicity is the key to this all-time favorite salad from Via Carota in NYC. Crunchy romaine is the green machine, paired with Camille’s out-of-this-world shallot vinegarette. Top with nuts for texture or creamy feta for richness.

Hero Ingredient: Dijon mustard is what makes this vinaigrette so addictive.

Green Salad With Sesame Dressing

Why We Love It: Salads are so much more than a side, and this recipe proves exactly that. With a sesame dressing that calls for tahini as its main player, it’s hard to resist gobbling the bowl down in one sitting. Bulk it up with grilled chicken or fish, or simply serve alongside your favorite main.

Hero Ingredient: Pistachios are an elite salad topping—change my mind.

Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Why We Love It: This year saw me opting for desserts with nourishing ingredients. These healthy oatmeal cookies inspired me to be a bit more intentional with what I’m putting in my recipes. Whole wheat flour and old-fashioned oats act as complex carbs that allow these cookies to fuel your day in a nutrient-packed (and totally delish) way.

Hero Ingredient: Coconut flakes are a must-have ingredient to enhance these cookies’ texture.

Limoncello Spritz

Why We Love It: 2023 was definitely the year of the spritz. For the non-Aperol fans out there, this limoncello spritz is a total win for any spring or summer gathering. With a bit of bubbly, a pinch of lemon juice, and sparkling water, this drink gets better with every sip.

Hero Ingredient: Hellooooo limoncello.

Vegetarian Lentil Chili

Why We Love It: This vegetarian chili is a winner for the winter months without all the effort that traditional chili requires. Filled with warming spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

Hero Ingredient: If you haven’t dabbled in cooking lentils, now is your time.

Spiced Peach and Pecan Baked Oatmeal

Why We Love It: I may be biased, but this baked oatmeal was the breakfast recipe I had on repeat all of 2023. Spiced peaches have become a newfound favorite of mine with their sweet and savory flavor. Throw that altogether in a hearty oatmeal bake, and you may just become a morning person.

Hero Ingredient: I prefer fresh peaches in this dish, but frozen will do in a pinch.

Lemony Spring Pasta Salad

Why We Love It: Possibly my favorite internet craze of 2023 was pasta salad—and this springy version is, without a doubt, the most elite variation. With rich parmesan and crunchy arugula, it’s hard to meal prep something that tastes so good.

Hero Ingredient: Liberal amounts of lemon make this pasta bright and zesty—and makes me ready for spring…

Orange Carrot Cake

Why We Love It: There’s nothing not to love about this carrot cake. The secret ingredient? The orange extract brightens up this light and fluffy cake. (And the cream cheese frosting is simply on another level.)

Hero Ingredient: Orange extract… need I say more?

Zucchini Pasta

Why We Love It: This recipe was the pasta dish of the summer for more than one reason. Bright lemon flavors and nutty toppings pair incredibly well with a variety of seasonal squashes. Garnish with fresh mint or basil for both an aesthetic and tasty touch.

Hero Ingredient: Zucchini is highly underrated.

Cinnamon Baked Apples

Why We Love It: Light desserts were a hit in 2023, and these baked apples are no exception. Pair with crunchy granola and a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a touch of additional sweetness. Trust me—these are some of those hard-to-resist dishes you’ll never regret making.

Hero Ingredient: Honeycrisp apples are my personal favorite.

Tortellini Soup

Why We Love It: When fall came around this year, this tortellini soup recipe may have been my most-cooked recipe. (Though, when it comes to soup season, it’s hard to resist indulging for every meal.) Packed with nutrient-dense veggies, it’s far more than just a side dish.

Hero Ingredient: Roasted red peppers are the secret trick.

Ricotta Board with Pears and Pistachios

Why We Love It: Charcuterie can sometimes become overly complicated when you’re involving a multitude of ingredients—but it doesn’t have to be such a hassle. With a simple appetizer like this ricotta board with fresh pears and crunchy pistachios, hosting will be easier than ever.

Hero Ingredient: I’m a ricotta lover till death.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why We Love It: PSL season or not—these pumpkin cookies are a year-round favorite. With chopped dark chocolate and a bit of flaky salt, they’re not overly sweet but totally satisfying with every bite.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin puree is the hero of these cookies.

Gingersnap Pumpkin Pie

Why We Love It: Last, but certainly not least, this gingersnap pumpkin pie is arguably the best variation of this classic holiday dish. Spicy, creamy, and surrounded by a candy-like crust, it has practically everything you could ask for in a pie.

Hero Ingredient: Gingersnaps for the win!

The post Our Most Popular Recipes of 2023 appeared first on Camille Styles.

So today we’re deep diving into exactly what makes the best holiday appetizers for hosting all your guests. From artisanal cheeses to cured meats to toasts topped with deliciousness, we’re sharing recipes that will not only satisfy taste buds but also create a visually stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Enjoy!

11 Holiday Appetizers to Wow Your Guests

Holiday Bruschetta Board

Why We Love It: With rich shades of red from jewel-toned pomegranate seeds and touches of green from scattered rosemary springs, this holiday board is all you need for the best gatherings this season. Add your favorite spreads, dips, and snacks—and bonus points if they’re seasonal ingredients!

Hero Ingredient: These slow-roasted tomatoes are to die for.

Tinned Fish Board

Why We Love It: Tinned fish is a unique take on your traditional charcuterie. This board is quick and easy, with fresh veggies, savory cheeses, and of course, French bread. If you’re looking for a low-stakes board with a little something for everyone, put these ingredients on your shopping list.

Hero Ingredient: Tinned fish is the star of the show—don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it!

Dips & Crudite Grazing Board

Why We Love It: Sometimes, some fresh produce is exactly what your (rich) holiday menu needs. This dips and crudite board offers a bit of everything—from homemade dips to crunchy nuts. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors provide a little much-needed contrast to all the sweet indulgence this season is known for.

Hero Ingredient: Caramelized onions, in dip form? Zero leftovers, guaranteed.

Kale, Pea & Ricotta Spread

Why We Love It: Talk about an elegant side—this kale, pea, and ricotta spread is the perfect bite-sized holiday appetizer. In addition to your favorite crudites, the spread itself is fresh and creamy—the perfect complement to heavier dishes.

Hero Ingredient: Ricotta, though humble, is this recipe’s pièce de résistance.

Ricotta Board with Pears and Pistachios

Why We Love It: For a holiday appetizer that uses minimal dishes (score!), this ricotta board is a simple and quick way to curate a delicious variety of snacks for grazing. There’s something about the ricotta/honey/apple combination that never gets old, no matter the time of year.

Hero Ingredient: Pistachios give this board the perfect nutty crunch.

Holiday Charcuterie Board

Why We Love It: A holiday cheese board won’t break the bank? This guide makes it possible. All you need is a good serving board and some seasonal ingredients. When the weather is cooler, I like to add in a mix of hard and soft cheeses like gruyere, gouda, or creamy brie.

Hero Ingredient: Pomegranates or cranberries can add a festive touch.

Apricot and Brie Tarte Soleil

Why We Love It: If your goal is to impress your guests, you have to try your hand at this tarte soleil. The pastry is filled with savory and sweet elements like brie, chili powder, and apricot preserves. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser that’s hard to beat.

Hero Ingredient: Herbs are an easy way to pack nuanced flavor into any dish. Here, we recommend rosemary and thyme.

Baked Brie Charcuterie Board

Why We Love It: For all the brie lovers, this charcuterie board makes the creamy cheese the star of the show. Pair it with other favorites like gorgonzola or parmesan slivers for a delightful dish full of varied flavors. Add in fresh and dried fruit as a sweet complement and a sliced baguette for the board of your dreams.

Hero Ingredient: A drizzle of honey and brie go hand-in-hand.

Spinach Artichoke Tart

Why We Love It: When it comes to appetizers for hosting big crowds, everyone goes crazy over pastries. And the holidays are a perfect time to whip up some of your top tarts. If you’re a fan of spinach and artichoke dip, give this pastry a try for all of your hosting occasions.

Hero Ingredient: Sour cream is key for creating a rich filling and addicting tarts.

Smokey Eggplant Dip

Why We Love It: Every table needs a good dip to snack on before the main meal, and this dip is a top-tier option. Loaded with spices and bold flavors, it’s far better than any pre-packaged dip you’ll find at the store.

Hero Ingredient: The eggplant is obviously the heart of this dip.

Pesto Parmesan Potatoes

Why We Love It: You can never go wrong with a plate of potatoes, especially when they’re covered in a nutty pesto and rich parmesan flakes. When serving, add some caramelized and roasted garlic paste and a bit of zingy lemon to cut through the richness of the potato and cheese.

Hero Ingredient: Yukon golds are your best bet here, but feel free to use whatever potato you have on hand.

The post 11 Holiday Appetizers That Literally Every Guest Will Love appeared first on Camille Styles.

Thanks to the fact that I started my career in catering (combined with the countless dinner parties I’ve thrown over the years), I’ve assembled quite a collection of main dish holiday party recipes to feed a crowd that check the boxes. All of these holiday party recipes are:

• Crowd-pleasing dishes that almost everyone loves.
• Leverage large-batch cooking, like a sheet pan or grill, so that I’m not laboriously sautéing 16 individual fish fillets or frying 12 eggs to top salads.
• And most importantly, I can do almost all the prep in advance so that by the time my guests arrive, I can join the party with them.

13 Festive and Easy Holiday Party Recipes to Feed a Crowd

I divided this post into recipes that I make for dinner parties with 4-6 guests (due to the cooking techniques, or the fact that they incorporate pricier ingredients), and the recipes that are really easy to double or triple to feed a true crowd. These leverage larger cuts of meat, build-your-own components that let guests adapt to their dietary needs, and less expensive ingredients so your party budget doesn’t get out of control.

The next time you find yourself hosting a holiday party and wondering what to make, bookmark this post for 13 easy holiday party menus to feed a crowd. Trust me: all these recipes will leave your dinner guests happy, satisfied, and waiting for when their next invite arrives in the mail.

Holiday Dinner Parties for 4 – 6 Guests

The Best Roast Chicken with Tomatoes, Lemons, and Salsa Verde

What makes it holiday-party-ready: If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at a whole roast chicken, this recipe is the best place to start. With mouth-watering roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh garlic, this may be the most flavorful holiday recipe that everyone is bound to love.

Make it a feast:

• Serve this chicken with savory sides like these faux parmesan cauliflower “potatoes.”
• Roasted honeynut squash with hot honey, pecans, and goat cheese is another delicious side that can also serve as a main dish for any vegetarians around the table.

Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

What makes it holiday-party-ready: A good pasta dish is always a dinner-party favorite, especially when its partner is a sauce that’s this delicious. This is Half-Baked Harvest’s Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka that Tieghan made when she came for dinner a couple years back, and I’ve made it countless times since. A dish like this is the perfect option to whip up for an intimate gathering.

Make it a feast:

• A lighter side dish like this simple green salad from Via Carota brings fresh flavor to the table.
• I also love the seasonal vibes of this festive brown butter acorn squash.

Roasted Salmon with Spicy Cucumber Orange Salsa

What makes it holiday-party-ready: The benefit of a lighter holiday party recipe is that it leaves room for delicious sides (and not feeling totally over-stuffed at the end of the night.) This roasted salmon recipe is cooked to perfection with a cucumber salsa topping that’s gorgeous and delicious.

Make it a feast:

• This salmon pairs lovely with a grain-based dish like this gluten-free cauliflower tabbouleh
• These roasted root vegetables with gremolata and whipped feta bring loads of color and flavor to the table.

Sheet Pan Halibut With Italian Salsa Verde And Asparagus

What makes it holiday-party-ready: Halibut is an elevated and elegant holiday party recipe to feed a crowd. The salsa verde brings zest and freshness.

Make it a feast:

• This holiday jewels chopped kale salad is always a stunner.
• A light fruit dessert like this raspberry tiramisu really completes this meal.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

What makes it holiday-party-ready: Gnocchi’s cozy, satisfying qualities make it perfect for the holiday season. It’s not too heavy and just the right amount of sweet and savory. Sweet potato gnocchi has been on repeat this winter for all my dinner-party endeavors, and this recipe is the perfect opportunity to indulge.

Make it a feast:

• I always pair gnocchi with a big bowl of greens, like my best simple green salad served family style.
• Finish with a beautiful dessert like Maman’s cookie tiramisù.

Orange-Chili Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Carrot Pesto And Grilled Carrots

What makes it holiday-party-ready: A pork tenderloin is always a fan-favorite recipe for the holidays, and this flavorful take is the only recipe you need. It’s a great opportunity to heat up your grill during the winter and a great excuse to reserve the oven for other flavorful additions to your holiday table.

Make it a feast:

• Turn it into an Italian dinner by pairing with a veggie-packed pasta like this Lemon Ricotta Pasta (that’s also a great main dish for any vegetarians in attendance.)
• For dessert, keep it simple with a big batch of your favorite Christmas cookies.

Holiday Dinner Parties for a Crowd

Sweet and Spicy Braised Short Ribs

What makes it holiday-party-ready: These sweet and spicy short ribs never get old. I could serve them every year for my family and friends, and no one would be sad about it. The fall-of-the-bone meat makes it easy to divide up and share simply with a group. And the best part? These are hanging out in the oven way before guests arrive, and you get to be (basically) hands-off until it’s time to eat.

Make it a feast:

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a must for soaking up all those beautiful juices.
• I also love the seasonality of this Roasted Delicata Squash—it’s a festive way to add some veg.

“Damn That’s A Keeper” Winter Vegetable Lasagna

What makes it holiday-party-ready: Lasagna is a go-to dish for large crowds for good reason. This vegetable lasagna is a lighter take on the classic dish, and the scratch pasta is worth the effort and time. The filling can be prepared for the day before, making for more time to spend with your dinner party crew.

Make it a feast:

• This beautiful Apple Walnut Salad will brighten up the plate with tons of crunch and flavor.
• My Flourless Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake is always a crowd favorite.

Lamb Meatballs In Tomato Sauce With Fresh Ricotta

What makes it holiday-party-ready: Meatballs are an underrated holiday dinner party dish that can makes for a total crowd-pleaser—and these feel really special. Seasonal flavors come together for a savory mean that’s also so easy to serve buffet-style.

Make it a feast:

• These meatballs go well with any roasted veggie, like this whole roasted cauliflower with salsa verde.
• Finish it off with a light seasonal salad like this (addictive) green salad with sesame dressing.

Holiday Bruschetta Board

What makes it holiday-party-ready: This bruschetta board has it all—juicy roasted tomatoes, nutty pesto, and fresh pomegranate seeds. Slice up a fresh baguette and your guests will be grazing for hours on this fresh and flavorful board.

Make it a feast:

• The point of a “grazing board” party is that it’s a meal in and of itself! For a really big group, pair it with another type of snacking board like this gorgeously festive crudité platter with dips.
• For dessert, keep it simple by pre-baking a big batch of your favorite Christmas cookies.

Gaby’s Pork Carnitas Tacos

What makes it holiday-party-ready: In Texas, we love to incorporate Mexican flavors throughout the holiday season. It doesn’t feel like Christmas until I eat a tamale! These pork carnitas from Gaby Dalkin’s cookbook are ultra-simple and filled with rich flavor. And this particular cut of meat is made for serving a big crowd.

Make it a feast:

• Make some smoky pinto beans and a festive fruit salad to complement this hearty main.
• Finish with my go-to margarita recipe that never fails me for a party.

Rosemary Bourbon Glazed Ham

What makes it holiday-party-ready: Nothing feels more festive for a party than a big bone-in glazed ham. And bonus points that it’s the perfect main to let everyone serve themselves throughout the evening. This recipe does the traditional glazed ham justice with the perfect hit of rosemary and an irresistible bourbon glaze.

Make it a feast:

• These crispy roasted potatoes are the hit of every holiday party.
• Ginger-Molasses cookies are also full of nostalgic holiday flavor.

Vegetarian Chili

What makes it holiday-party-ready: Throwing together a pot of chili is never a bad idea during the cooler months. To keep things a little lighter, this vegetarian chili is the perfect option and fits just about every dietary restriction you can think of. Dress it up with all of your favorite chili toppings, and enjoy!

Make it a feast:

• Serve this chili with a pan (or three) of cornbread
• My Holiday Jewels Chopped Salad adds a welcome hit of freshness—and it can hang out on the buffet for a couple hours without wilting.

The post When I’m Hosting a Holiday Party, These Are the 13 Recipes I Always Return To appeared first on Camille Styles.

For many of us, winter is all about embracing coziness. Thankfully, these easy winter recipes are all about comfort. A bowl of polenta, a mug of soup, or a pepperminty cake can be your cure to the winter blues that—no matter how hard we try to shoo away—come out of hibernation this time of year.

If you’re anti-Daylight Savings Time, prone to seasonal allergies, or just looking for a pick-me-up meal, these recipes are your friends. They’re full of comforting and satisfying elements that are celebrated in the easiest ways to give us that sense of ease this time of year. I don’t know about you, but I’m all about it.

41 Easy Winter Recipes to Beat the Winter Blues

Ahead, you’ll find a little bit of everything. Whether it’s a soup, pizza, muffin, or cake, there’s a lot of wintery goodness to unpack. Much like Christmas morning, I’d encourage you to dive right in and unwrap the foolproof recipes we have in store for you. They’re all easy and tailor-made for chilly winter days, nights, and everything in between. Read on for our picks of easy winter recipes that help beat those dreaded winter blues.

Breakfast

Cranberry Orange Muffins

Why We Love It: Muffins are one of life’s greatest gifts. They’re practically desserts that you can eat for breakfast. And these cranberry orange muffins prove just that. Cranberry and orange is a staple winter flavor combo that you can’t go wrong with. Together, they strike that perfect balance between tart, sweet, and a little zest that’s oh-so-good.

Hero Ingredient: Just look at that glaze. My mouth is watering.

Pumpkin Overnight Oats

Why We Love It: I’m all about transitioning from pumpkin to peppermint this time of year, but it’d be wrong to kick PSL out the door right away. And although it’s traditionally highlighted in fall recipes, pumpkin still deserves a spot in your repertoire of easy winter recipes. In these overnight oats, pumpkin purée, oats, milk, maple syrup, and just a handful of other pantry staples join forces to create an on-demand breakfast for even the busiest mornings.

Hero Ingredient: Hero method: The oats literally cook themselves. What more can we ask for from a simple, but delicious breakfast?

Sarah Copeland’s Millet and Amaranth Porridge with Figs and Papaya

Why We Love It: During this time of year, a cold breakfast just doesn’t cut it. Waking up to a comforting, nourishing bowl is never a bad idea—making this porridge perfect to add to your list of easy winter recipes. It’s creamy, dreamy, and so easy to make ahead of time for a quick breakfast all week long.

Hero Ingredient: Porridge is a blank canvas for any toppings you please. Feel free to get creative and try some interesting combinations! The world is your bowl of porridge—or something like that.

Chai Challah French Toast

Why We Love It: French toast is a winter morning classic in my house, and this recipe brings it to a whole different level. Top your toast with fresh fruit of your liking and a large dollop of whipped cream for a touch of creamy sweetness.

Hero Ingredient: The challah bread is the star of this show.

Spiced Orange and Date Paste Cinnamon Rolls

Why We Love It: As I write this, I’m in the process of whipping up these spiced orange cinnamon rolls on this chilly Texas morning. Homemade cinnamon rolls are always worth the effort, and these flavors will blow your guests away.

Hero Ingredient: If you’re a date skeptic, give it a chance with this recipe.

Drinks

Masala Chai

Why We Love It: If you’re a Starbucks chai tea girl, this recipe is for you. Well, maybe not so much a recipe, but a foolproof formula that leaves room for you to personalize to your liking. One of the best parts of this recipe is that it makes a lot (hello, easy winter recipes). You can store it in the fridge to reheat or enjoy over ice if that’s your vibe. It’s comforting and nostalgic for wintertime.

Hero Ingredient: It may seem cumbersome, but grinding your own spices makes all the difference. But if you don’t have time, pre-ground spices work, too!

Matcha Latte

Why We Love It: Matcha lattes can make any morning just a little bit brighter, especially when the temperature starts to drop. These cozy, sweet flavors are enough to make me look forward to the AM, even if it’s too cold to get out of bed.

Hero Ingredient: A ceremonial grade matcha is a must.

Golden Turmeric Milk

Why We Love It: This golden turmeric milk latte is a step up from your morning coffee with far more health benefits. With warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper, this drink is one to keep on your winter list.

Hero Ingredient: A good dairy-free milk makes this latte just a little bit easier on the digestive system.

Soups

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Why We Love It: If you think you’ve had a good Zuppa Toscana soup, this recipe might make your past soup endeavors seem dull. Without being too rich and heavy, this soup brings a creamy consistency with plenty of substance. Savory Italian sausage paired with hearty vegetables makes it basically a warm hug in a bowl.

Hero Ingredient: Red pepper flakes give this soup an added kick of heat.

Tortellini Soup

Why We Love It: No matter the time of year, this tortellini soup is on repeat in my kitchen. It simply checks all the boxes of a meal that will keep you satisfied and indulging in the coziness

Hero Ingredient: Garlic and soup… an ultimate pairing.

Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

Why We Love It: When I think soup season, butternut squash is butternut squash is always a must. It brings the perfect blend of sweet and savory to any dish. With a touch of coconut milk for an added hint of sweet creamy indulgence, this soup is unlike any other.

Hero Ingredient: If I haven’t said it enough, the squash is the star.

Easy Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

Why We Love It: I’ve had this recipe on repeat for chilly fall nights, and I see no reason why that shouldn’t continue into winter. It’s cozy, comforting, and full of flavor—plus, it lasts me so long. Granted, I’m only cooking for one, but this is the soup that truly keeps on giving. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week to enjoy all week long. Pro tip: If you’re low on broth later in the week, serve up what’s left on warm corn tortillas for a taco-esque dish. You could literally eat it for every meal and not get tired of it—and that’s saying something.

Hero Ingredient: The fresh cilantro flavor shines through twofold: once in fresh cilantro form and again in the ground coriander that flavors the broth. It’s magical.

Turkey Chili Verde

Why We Love It: In the world of easy winter recipes, soups are a no-brainer. They’re practically designed for batch cooking and can last you days, weeks, or even months if you choose to freeze your leftovers. This Turkey Chili Verde is no exception and even packs a healthy dose of protein into your day. The seasoning blend is part of what sets this chili apart. It features oregano, cumin, white pepper, and a hint of cinnamon to flavor the broth to sheer perfection.

Hero Ingredient: Shortcut alert! You can use Siete Enchilada Sauce in place of a homemade version. It’s a real game-changer.

One-Pot Vegetarian Moroccan Stew

Why We Love It: To me, stew is very on-brand for winter. I can recall several cold nights growing up when my mom would serve a comforting bowl of hearty stew. And when I would come home from school to the smell of savory stew bubbling away on the stove, all was right in the world. In this recipe, that wholesomeness is celebrated in a vegetarian-friendly form that doesn’t skimp on nutrition and heartiness. It’s a home run.

Hero Ingredient: Chickpeas introduce a stick-to-your-ribs dose of protein and fiber that keeps this stew healthy and satisfying.

Creamy Polenta Bowls with Garlic and Mascarpone

Why We Love It: This creamy polenta recipe gives you a hug in a bowl—literally. These bowls are simple but look fancy enough to serve for a dinner party or to dress up weeknight dinners. So how do they come together? You’ll start by roasting your veggies of choice in the oven, then prepare your polenta on the stove, piece the components together, and enjoy! Creamy bliss is just a polenta bowl away.

Hero Ingredient: By roasting garlic alongside the veggies, you’re getting caramelized pods to squeeze straight into the polenta. It’s flavor heaven.

Salads

Squash & Farro Salad With Apples, Goat Cheese, & Pecans

Why We Love It: If there was ever a winter salad easy on the eyes, it would be this savory salad with goat cheese and pecans. Squash and farro add an element of heartiness that’s lightened up with fresh apples.

Hero Ingredient: Goat cheese is my absolute favorite salad topping.

Shredded Kale & Cranberry Salad

Why We Love It: Shredded kale salads are always festive, especially when paired with bright fruit flavors like cranberry. Crunchy tofu adds a little bit of protein and substance with dry-roasted peanuts for a little crunch.

Hero Ingredient: Add a bit of sesame seeds for a savory topping.

Warm Roasted Delicata Squash and Kale Salad

Why We Love It: Sheela Prakash shared this recipe with us from her cookbook, Mediterranean Every Day, and we’re so glad she did. First, you can make this entire recipe ahead of time—yes, dressed and all. Since it uses kale as the base, you won’t have any wilted leaves when the clock strikes meal time. In addition to that, the oven does a lot of the work for you by roasting the squash. From there, all you have to do is whisk up a dressing and assemble.

Hero Ingredient: Toasty hazelnuts bring a crunch and nuttiness to the salad that’s both complementary and seasonal.

Holiday Jewels Chopped Kale Salad with Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette

Why We Love It: There’s so much goodness going on in this salad. First, since it’s a chopped salad, it’s perfectly bite-sized, so you can get a little of everything in each forkful. It uses pear slices, pomegranate seeds, gorgonzola crumbles, and candied walnuts to strike each beautiful winter chord. To tie it all together, a succulent mustard-shallot vinaigrette lovingly coats each ingredient. It’s easy, dynamic, and very, very crave-worthy. You’ve been warned.

Hero Ingredient: The candied walnuts. No further questions.

Sides

Roasted Honeynut Squash with Hot Honey, Pecans, and Rosemary

Why We Love It: The delicious squash recipes never end, and this roasted honeynut squash with hot honey (my new favorite addition to pretty much anything) is top-tier. Rosemary adds a touch of herby flavor, and pecans bring the nuttiness.

Hero Ingredient: Hot honey is simply incredible.

Sweet & Sour Cider Brussels Sprouts

Why We Love It: Don’t knock Brussels sprouts until you try them—especially this recipe. Crunchy, sweet, and a little bit tangy, these will be gobbled up on any holiday table.

Hero Ingredient: A little sweet vinegar sauce is all you need.

Roasted Heirloom Carrots With Wild Rice And Tahini

Why We Love It: Like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and peas, carrots are often associated with the bland, overcooked veggies that our parents would encourage us to eat at dinnertime. But those days are gone, folks! Carrots deserve to be celebrated for the powerful vegetables they are. In this recipe, they’re beautifully caramelized and accented by a tahini sauce, toasted pepitas, crumbled goat cheese, and a whole slew of warming spices. Say goodbye to bland carrots and hello to your new weeknight fave.

Hero Ingredient: A little fresh cilantro over top brightens up the entire dish.

Pesto Parmesan Potatoes

Why We Love It: Let’s face it, potatoes are amazing in every form. Mashed, roasted, fried, you name it… potatoes are winners through and through. In this recipe, they’re hasselback-ed, roasted, and topped with golden caramelized garlic and vibrant pesto. The best part? Little golden brown potato edges. Talk about a winner.

Hero Ingredient: To break up all that richness, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over top. You’ll be glad you did.

Rosemary Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Butter and Hazelnuts

Why We Love It: This roasted acorn squash makes a simple sidekick to any tasty main. It’s easy to make but doesn’t skimp on any flavor. Brown butter, toasty walnuts, and fresh rosemary or sage complement the natural flavors of the squash beautifully. Plus, the oven does all the work for you. Total score.

Hero Ingredient: Using a really good butter makes all the difference. Camille recommends her favorite European premium salted butter, which you can find just about anywhere for a reasonable price. Keep your eyes peeled on your next grocery store run and prepare to reap the benefits!

Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Yogurt, Herbs, and Everything Spice

Why We Love It: When I first bit into these potatoes, I actually gasped. I wish I was lying, but these are seriously that good. It’s all about the caramelized crust that tops a pillowy underneath with creamy toppings to finish it off. We’re talking avocado, Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lime juice, the list goes on…

Hero Ingredient: Be generous with the honey. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try this recipe with hot honey! The slight heat combined with fluffy sweet potato is *chef’s kiss*.

Butternut Squash and Ricotta Tart

Why We Love It: I know what you’re thinking: how can a tart that gorgeous be easy? Well, prepare to be amazed. With a mandolin by your side, this beautiful centerpiece is a piece of cake. It uses a store-bought shell as the base for sliced squash, sweet potato, apple, and onion, plus a creamy ricotta filling to top it all off. Well, technically to bottom it all off, but you get the idea.

Hero Ingredient: Sprinkle a few red pepper flakes over top for just the right amount of kick.

Whole Roasted Butternut Squash

Why We Love It: Easy winter recipes are all about, well, ease. And this recipe understands that principle perfectly. Butternut squash can be a little intimidating at first glance, but this recipe calls for you to simply roast it—skin, seeds, and all. Once it’s soft, the squash is so much easier to slice through and deseed. From there, you’ll top with crispy chickpeas, goat cheese, everything seasoning, and cilantro. Hello, easy weeknight dinner.

Hero Ingredient: Goat cheese is the creamy-on-creamy topping of our dreams.

Caramelized Onion and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Why We Love It: Five ingredients and about an hour are all that’s standing between you and a savory plant-based dinner that’s sure to satisfy. Meaty portobello mushrooms are stuffed with onion, spinach, and parmesan for a deliciously simple meal. From there, they’re topped with lots of mozzarella cheese and baked until that cheese is bubbly and full of golden specks. It’s a simple recipe that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Hero Ingredient: The sauteéd onions are deglazed with a little balsamic or apple cider vinegar, which keeps those indulgent flavors balanced.

Main Dishes

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Why We Love It: Creamy pasta recipes have my heart, and this butternut squash pasta is no exception. The best part? It’s totally dairy-free!

Hero Ingredient: Crispy bacon bits are perfection.

Butternut Squash Pizza With Arugula & Almond Ricotta

Why We Love It: When it comes to easy winter recipes, pizza is king. Not only is it a breeze to make, but it leaves you with something that feels celebratory. This version uses the seasonal favorite that is creamy butternut squash. The squash is joined by salty bacon bits, sharp red onion, peppery arugula, and an almond ricotta base you’ll want to bookmark. It’s simple, tasty, and presents you with a whole that’s so much greater than the sum of its parts.

Hero Ingredient: Yes, you can make your own pizza dough. But because these are easy winter recipes, there’s no shame in using store-bought dough. In fact, it’s encouraged.

Pesto Gnocchi Skillet Bake

Why We Love It: Simply put, this one ticks all the boxes. Minimal ingredients? Try five. One-pan? You betcha. Comfort and flavor? Take a bite and see for yourself! This cheesy Pesto Gnocchi Skillet Bake is chock full of cozy vibes and easy steps that take you from pan to plate in under 45 minutes. You can use store-bought pesto to keep prep that much more minimal. Or, if you’re up to it, try this easy homemade vegan pesto recipe. Either way is a winner.

Hero Ingredient: Cream cheese brings a touch of tang to the sauce that’s unapologetically indulgent. Go big or go home!

Kitchari

Why We Love It: This one-pot wonder is a gift to yourself on lazy winter nights. If you have lentils and rice in your pantry, you’re only thirty minutes away from a cozy dinner that’s satisfying and so easy. You can make it on the stove or in an instant pot—it’s equally delicious both ways.

Hero Ingredient: Glowy turmeric gives this bowl of yum its sunshine-yellow color. Plus, it packs in a little anti-inflammatory boost that you’ll feel great about from the inside out.

Ratatouille-Style Roasted Vegetable Pasta

Why We Love It: Eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, and garlic roast together on a single sheet pan before entering pasta bliss. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for busy weeknight dinners. It’s also a great veggie-centric winter recipe that ensures you’re nourishing your body. To top it all off, chunky rigatoni noodles provide the perfect canvas for soaking up all those roasted veggie juices.

Hero Ingredient: The finishing touches make big flavor moves here. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes, grated parm, and torn basil elevate the entire dish.

Cakes and Cookies

Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why We Love It: If there’s one dessert you make this winter, make it this pumpkin cake. With spiced notes and a super creamy frosting, there’s no denying yourself an extra slice of this loaf.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin puree is this cake’s secret weapon

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why We Love It: Chocolatey, chewy, and a tiny bit salty—these cookies are next-level when it comes to fall flavors. Homemade cookies are always a great addition to any holiday affair, but when they’re as unique as these, your guests will be begging for the recipe.

Hero Ingredient: A tiny bit of flaky salt is the key.

Walnut Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Why We Love It: Coffee cake is a Christmas morning must-have, especially when nutty and creamy flavors collide like they do here. This crumble topping also goes into the center of the cake, along with cream cheese, for an elevated morning (or afternoon) snack.

Hero Ingredient: Rolled oats are a lovely addition.

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Why We Love It: Pumpkin season is never-ending as long as the temperatures are low. These are super simple with sweet and spicy flavors like mini pumpkin breads.

Hero Ingredient: The glaze for these cookies is Insta-worthy.

Orange Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Why We Love It: Carrot cake may not seem like a winter recipe, but these spiced wintery flavors are to die for. Cream cheese frosting is delicious on just about everything—this recipe is no exception.

Hero Ingredient: Orange zest helps bring out all of this cake’s beautiful flavors.

Flourless Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake

Why We Love It: Need a gorgeous centerpiece for a winter gathering (or on-a-whim snacking)? This flourless peppermint hot chocolate cake has you covered. At first glance, it might look intimidating, but it’s simple enough for any baker. It’s totally appropriate for winter as it has lots of delicious peppermint flavor throughout. Whether you’re making this for an impromptu dinner party or just to spice up weeknight dinner time, you’ll be glad to have this recipe in your back pocket.

Hero Ingredient: Because this cake is flourless, your gluten-free self or friends can enjoy it without hesitation.

Pumpkin Snack Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

Why We Love It: In case you missed it, everyone on the Camille Styles team is a big fan of snacking cakes. Simply put, a snack cake is a cake that you can enjoy at any time of day. Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Cut yourself a slice to enjoy with a cup of coffee. Craving something sweet after dinner that won’t send you into a food coma? Here’s your answer. Any way you choose to enjoy it, this Pumpkin Snack Cake with Cinnamon Streusel is just the easy dessert you’ve been looking for.

Hero Ingredient: The cinnamon streusel really is the icing on the cake.

Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Why We Love It: Fun, festive, and winter-esque, these Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies are the holiday dessert you’ve been looking for. The molten chocolate center is simply incredible and the little bits of crushed peppermint ties the whole cookie together. To make things extra easy, you can mix up the dough at any time and freeze it until you’re ready to bake.

Hero Ingredient: The gooey center, duh.

No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bars

Why We Love It: It doesn’t get much easier than no-bake recipes. These No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bars are the easiest dessert you’ll serve—and enjoy—all season long. They feature a graham cracker crust, smooth pumpkin butter, and a cream cheese-accented filling that you’ll want to eat with a spoon. And if you’re intimidated by the pumpkin butter, fear not! Store-bought works just as well.

Hero Ingredient: I’m a sucker for a graham cracker crust.

This post was originally published on December 2nd, 2022, and has since been updated.

The post These 41 Easy Recipes Will Cozy Up Your Winter Weeknights appeared first on Camille Styles.

33 of the Best Christmas Cookie Recipes to Try This Holiday

Psst… If you’re craving more creative cookie recipes, we have just the thing! The Camille Styles team partnered with the best food bloggers and recipe developers to create our free Holiday Cookie Guide: 10 Exclusive Recipes From Your Favorite Bakers. This guide includes 10 exclusive recipes, tips for how to host your own cookie swap, and movie pairings for the perfect cozy night in. Enjoy!

Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Why We Love It: These treats are Christmas cookie gold. Chocolate and peppermint is a pairing I look forward to enjoying every holiday season, and a batch of these satisfies the seasonal craving. These feature a molten chocolate center and a double dose of peppermint flavor. Cancel all my plans—I’m staying in tonight and baking these.

Hero Ingredient: A chocolate baking disc tucked into each cookie is the secret to the ooey-gooey lava goodness.

Chocolate Orange Linzer Shortbread Cookies

Why We Love It: Chocolatey, buttery, and oh-so-beautiful, these cookies roll all the wholesome parts of the holidays into one delicious bite. While most Linzer cookies use jam for the filling, these make stunning use of an orange-infused chocolate ganache. They’ll pretty up any cookie plate they’re a part of.

Hero Ingredient: Chocolate and orange is a dream cookie combo. Using the citrus zest in both the dough and the ganache makes it happen.

Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why We Love It: Raise your hand if you could eat pumpkin cookies all throughout the year. (Me!) Sure, pumpkin is most associated with October, but I love its sweet, warming flavor well into the holidays. If I found these beyond-chewy, chocolate chip-laced delights in a holiday cookie box, you can bet I’d be a happy eater.

Hero Ingredient: Chocolate chip cookies—yes, even those that feature pumpkin as their primary flavor—benefit from a little sprinkle of sea salt. It’s key to giving them a boost of

Orange Cranberry, Pistachio, and Cardamom White Chocolate Slice and Bake Cookies

Why We Love It: I love slice-and-bake cookies because 1) they’re absolutely delish and 2) they’re a breeze to make ahead of time and bake whenever you’re in need of a fresh cookie. Simply mix your dough together, roll it into wax paper, and store in the freezer until you’re ready to, well, slice and bake. This particular recipe makes the most of this easy method and brings tons of festivity and flavor to the final result. They’re creative, whimsical, and totally drool-worthy.

Hero Ingredient: The drizzled white chocolate is exactly what you need to send these cookies over the top.

Chocolate Bourbon Biscuits

Why We Love It: There’s nothing more nostalgic than a sandwich cookie, but these biscuits are a step up from your expected Oreo affair. The shortbread dough keeps these cookies soft and chewy and espresso powder brings out the chocolatey flavor. All you need is your favorite tea for dipping.

Hero Ingredient: I can’t think of a more perfect filling for these cookies than chocolate hazelnut spread.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

Why We Love It: These cookies agree: there’s nothing more comforting than sipping a mug of warm cocoa on a cold winter day. Get ready to transform your hot chocolate craving.

Hero Ingredient: Peppermint hot cocoa mix is the no-fail solution to ensuring that these cookies taste just like your favorite wintertime drink.

Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies

Why We Love It: The key to perfecting these cookies’ soft, almost cake-like texture is baking them in a muffin tin. Call them a cookie, call them a brownie, call them a brookie (actually, don’t do that)—but regardless of your chosen moniker, these treats are sure to delight. If you want a chocolate cookie that’s fudgy and full of frosting, this is the one to bake.

Hero Ingredient: Ferrero rocher chocolates as an added topping delivers just the right amount of decadence that I’m craving this time of year.

Chai Chocolate Dipped Christmas Cookies

Why We Love It: I love my chai sweet and spicy, and these cookies have the nuanced flavor down pat. They do the classic sugar cookie justice by creating slightly crisp edges and a soft, tender middle. The chai spices combined with the added orange zest keep the dough from leaning too sweet. And when you add sprinkles and dip it in chocolate, you’ve got a Christmas cookie recipe for the books.

Hero Ingredient: I can’t choose between all the spice options—they bring a little something special to each bite.

Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cinnamon Glaze

Why We Love It: Sure, these don’t necessarily scream Christmas, but truthfully, I crave a little pumpkin all throughout the colder months. If you can’t stand a dry cookie and crave a melt-in-your-mouth texture, these deliver. I like them best straight from the oven (with the warm, pumpkin aroma still in the air) and I can’t get enough of the sweet cinnamon glaze. These deserve a spot in your Christmas cookie recipe book.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin pie spice. Need I say more?

Pistachio Truffles

Why We Love It: Truffles are the simple, elegant, and tasty best friend of any jam-packed holiday schedule. I’m talking six ingredients and a few hands-free hours spent setting in the freezer. You can make these (vegan!) truffles with absolute ease.

Hero Ingredient: It’s all about the toppings. Roll your truffles in coconut or toasted pistachios. Either option gives you a perfectly crunchy complement to your truffles’ creamy center.

Buttered Rum Shortbread Cookies from Hummingbird High

Why We Love It: Four words sealed the deal for me on these holiday cookies: marbled buttered rum glaze. I’m sure you had the idea when you took in that picture, but these cookies aren’t just aesthetic. With a cup of butter in the dough itself (these are shortbread, after all) plus four tablespoons in the glaze, these are sure to be a favorite amongst all your cookie testers. As far as the best Christmas cookie recipes, this one features a relatively short ingredients list—making the journey from mixing bowl to mouth all the more streamlined.

Hero Ingredient: It’s a toss-up between the butter and the rum. Paired together, they’re unstoppable.

Soft Gingerbread Latte Cookies with Brown Butter Icing from Half Baked Harvest

Why We Love It: Tieghan Gerard (the baking genius behind Half Baked Harvest) has a knack for ensuring that everything emerging from her kitchen is a delicious delight. But these gingerbread latte cookies? They’re my absolute fave. I love the spicy-sweet flavor they have going on, plus the soft and chewy texture makes them all the more comforting. And with that brown butter icing to boot, these holiday cookies are in a category unto themselves.

Hero Ingredient: Espresso powder is key for giving these cookies’ their distinguished latte flavor.

Dreamy Soft Vegan Coconut Meltaway Cookies from Sincerely Tori

Why We Love It: Whether you’re a year-round fan of coconut or just crave a bit of its tropical flavor in the dead of winter, you can count on these cookies to satisfy you when a Piña Colada craving hits. With a soft shortbread base and a coconut flavor that doesn’t taste artificial or overwhelming, you’ve got everything you need to win at the game of holiday baking.

Hero Ingredient: Coconut oil, coconut cream, and coconut extract make these cookies a true holiday delight. Not much more needs to be said.

Vegan & Grain-Free Ginger Molasses Softies from The First Mess

Why We Love It: For anyone who’s vegan or gluten-free but still wants to enjoy the cookie season, here’s the dough you need to whip up. If you thought paleo ginger cookies sounded more like a paradox than a delicious reality, get ready for these appropriately-named treats to blow your mind.

Hero Ingredient: Dates are the secret to making these cookies free of refined sweeteners while still tasting like a treat. Honestly too, because the dough isn’t saturated with sugar, the other ingredients are given the opportunity to let their flavors shine.

White Christmas Sugar Cookies from Julie Blanner

Why We Love It: Hot take: “White Christmas” was actually written about these cookies. I’ve been dreaming about their simple and incredibly satisfying taste since I had them this time last year. A sort of sugar cookie-shortbread hybrid, these combine the best of everything you could ever want in your cookie.

Hero Ingredient: If you’ve ever wondered why your favorite cookie recipes call for cream of tartar, here’s your answer: Cream of tartar acts as a leavening agent and helps keep the sugar in your cookies from crystallizing, so they’ll bake evenly and be devoured by everyone.

Eggnog Snickerdoodles from So Much Food

Why We Love It: Every holiday party seems to involve a debate over whether eggnog is delicious or… not. While I’m in the camp that loves sipping on a cup come December 1st (or, admittedly, earlier), I know it’s not for everyone. What is? These cookies. Mimicking the flavor of eggnog (nutmeg! rum!) and rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, there’s really no argument that these cookies are downright delicious.

Hero Ingredient: 1/3 cup of eggnog gets added to the cookie dough, just to be sure these taste like the real deal.

Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies from Hummingbird Thyme

Why We Love It: There’s nothing that evokes the essence of Christmas more than the scent of ginger wafting through the air. Sinking my teeth into one of these streusel-topped cookies is buttery bliss at its best.

Hero Ingredient: Crystallized ginger bumps up the heat while also providing a little extra texture to these already deliciously-soft cookies.

Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Cranberry Walnut Cookies from Ahead of Thyme

Why We Love It: When white chocolate meets cranberries, the result is pure cookie magic. Adding walnuts into the mix offers just enough crunch while also providing a bit of nuttiness that’s welcome in any box of holiday cookies.

Hero Ingredient: Why the additional egg yolk, you may ask? Including an extra egg yolk creates a fudgier cookie. Dense, tender, and rich—a roundup of the best adjectives you can associate with a cookie.

Slice-And-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies from Hummingbird High

Why We Love It: This recipe requires a little added context to understand the full scope of its Christmas cookie superiority. Full title? Any Time You Need ‘Em Slice-And-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies. Because here’s the thing: I always need cookies, and I always need cookies available to bake at the ready. If that’s true for you too, make these.

Hero Ingredient: Bittersweet chocolate, you can really do no wrong.

The Santa Clause Cookies from Half-Baked Harvest

Why We Love It: Tieghan Gerard set out on a mission to make sugar cookies that taste good, and honestly, that can be a bit harder than it might initially sound. She’s clearly succeeded with this recipe. The ingredients list features hazelnut liqueur, lots of vanilla, and brown sugar to give a complex flavor and melt-in-your-mouth bite.

Hero Ingredient: Keep the creamy vanilla bean glaze coming, please.

Easy Vegan Macaroons from Minimalist Baker

Why We Love It: These macaroons don’t disappoint. I love any and every Minimalist Baker recipe for their ability to combine just a few ingredients and create a result that captures everything I could ever want in something sweet. 

Hero Ingredient: Let me introduce you to the magic of aquafaba. If you’re unfamiliar with the go-to vegan ingredient, know that you’ll soon start saving every last drop from your can of chickpeas. An amazing egg replacement, it beautifully binds the ingredients here for the chewiest cookie of your life.

Mexican Wedding Cookies from Love & Lemons

Why We Love It: In my household, these are a Christmas cookie classic. I love that they simultaneously melt and crunch in your mouth, giving off their signature puff of powdered sugar. For me, these epitomize the holiday season. Not just because they look like snow themselves, but because every bite is a study in edible comfort.

Hero Ingredient: Almond extract deserves its spot in the sun. It’s fruity, nutty, and oh-so delish. I consider it an essential in every pantry.

Chocolate Cherry Almond Biscotti from My Baking Addiction

Why We Love It: The only way to improve upon a morning cup of coffee is by sipping your brew alongside a crispy, crunchy slice of biscotti. The only way to improve upon biscotti? A hearty handful of dried tart cherries and chocolate chips mixed into the dough. 

Hero Ingredient: It’s more a fact than an opinion: Every biscotti gets better with chopped almonds.

Salted Caramel Turtle Thumbprint Cookies from Cooking Classy

Why We Love It: ‘Tis the season for thumbprints of all sorts. While some recipes opt for the classic jam filling, these get a bit more indulgent with a salted caramel center. Trust me, they might look fancy, but the preparation really couldn’t be simpler.

Hero Ingredient: Is there a more perfect pairing of flavors than salted caramel? While it’s a toss-up between the two for who gets to be named this recipe’s standout ingredient, I’m happy to settle on giving the combination the trophy. 

Chocolate-Dipped Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies from Joy the Baker

Why We Love It: These cookies’ classic cross-hatched pattern lets you know immediately that you’re about to bite into peanut buttery goodness. What’s unexpected though, but nonetheless easy to embrace, is the dip they take in a bowl of melted chocolate. Golden and endlessly comforting, as peanut butter cookies should always be.

Hero Ingredient: A good peanut butter is always an essential part of any peanut butter cookie. I’m not opposed to choosing one that’s made with slightly salted and roasted peanuts for an added depth of flavor.

Cranberry Bliss Cookies from Gimme Some Oven

Why We Love It: Inspired by the favorite Starbucks pastry, these cookies brilliantly blend tart and sweet. While clearly a dessert, I definitely wouldn’t consider them out of place alongside my morning beverage. Breakfast is served.

Hero Ingredient: The frosting’s cream cheese base gives just the right amount of tang, making it so you can have two (or more) without getting a sugar-induced headache.

Autumn Brittle from Adventures in Cooking

Why We Love It: This brittle puts the best parts of your favorite granola front and center while binding them with honey for sweetness and an irresistible crunch. With almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and plenty more wholesome ingredients, it wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to consider this brittle a relatively-healthy indulgence.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin seeds not only add texture but also bring forth a little bit of festive color that’s eye-catching and elegant.

Chocolate Swirled Meringue Cookies from Sally’s Baking Addiction

Why We Love It: The presentation of these cookies is everything. Melted chocolate is mixed into a meringue base, creating a stunning swirl of black and white. And can we talk about those cute Christmas sprinkles?

Hero Ingredient: You might be wondering about the cream of tartar—I was, too. Turns out, they help your egg whites hold onto air, keeping these meringues soft, crispy, and sky-high

Olive Oil & Sea Salt Brownie Cookies from Butterlust

Why We Love It: All the deliciousness of your favorite brownie in the form of a cookie? This recipe delivers. They’re unique in their rich and complex flavor, and they’re all the proof you need that the limit for chocolatey goodness doesn’t exist.

Hero Ingredient: Hesitant to use olive oil in your baking? These cookies are your invitation to dive in. Instead of being savory, the cookies retain their fudgy, chocolatey sweetness. Plus, opting for olive oil instead of butter ensures your cookies will stay moist for days. Just make sure you’re using high-quality olive oil and skip anything you wouldn’t want to taste in your cookie.

Snowballs from In the Little Red House

Why We Love It: Nope, these are not the Hostess Snoballs found next to the register at many gas station convenience stores. Instead, these offer a buttery bite with a satisfying dusting of snow-white powdered sugar. The recipe has it right—these truly are Santa’s favorite cookies.

Hero Ingredient: Again, they’re not snowballs without the snow. A dip in powdered sugar makes that happen.

French Butter Cookies from Owl Baking

Why We Love It: In France, these cookies are traditionally known as sablés. They’re a round shortbread cookie that while sounding simple is nothing short of revelatory. If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at French baking but are intimidated by the thought of pastry, these cookies are an easy way to get started.

Hero Ingredient: If you can find a vanilla bean, amazing. If not, you can still capture these cookies’ almost caramelly flavor with vanilla bean paste. In a pinch, vanilla extract can work as well.

Gingerbread Donut Cookies from Studio DIY

Why We Love It: These are just about the cutest cookies I’ve ever seen. If you need a break from the many expected gingerbread men that make their appearance around this time of year, here’s a quick solve. 

Hero Ingredient: All the best things are inspired by doughnuts. Sure, they’d still look like the breakfast favorite without the sprinkles, but do you really want to pass up the opportunity for a little added pizzazz? Answer: You definitely don’t. 

Swiss Walnut Christmas Cookies from Eat, Little Bird

Why We Love It: Fun fact: Läckerli, the Swiss name for these biscuits, comes from the German word lecker, which translates to “delicious.” And it totally makes sense—hazelnuts and walnuts are blitzed in the food processor and create a sticky dough when mixed with the sugar and egg whites. Drizzling a little glaze on top never hurt anyone.

Hero Ingredient: The frosting is flavored with a tiny bit of Kirsch for a pronounced cherry flavor that adds just enough sweetness to these otherwise wholesome cookies.

The post The Best Christmas Cookie Recipes to Make This Holiday Season appeared first on Camille Styles.

And I’m starting to think that baking is my love language, too. Even though a chocolate chip cookie isn’t going to solve the world’s problems, I feel a certain peace knowing that I can at least make a friend smile with some homemade baked goods. I’d like to think my roommates love this about me since it means our kitchen is usually stocked with treats. That always seems to be the way to anyone’s heart, after all.

42 Delicious and Easy Things to Bake at Home

Get out of your comfort zone! In my experience, some of the most fun things to bake are the recipes that challenged me and taught me new baking methods or techniques. Just have fun leaning into the challenge, and don’t stress yourself out. Because truly, the best part is yet to come: eating and sharing your masterpiece with your loved ones.

So, turn on your favorite playlist, preheat your oven, and work your way down our list of things to bake when you’re bored. And don’t forget to share the love when you’re done.

Pies

Pumpkin Pie with Gingersnap Crust

Why We Love It: First off, we always love pumpkin pie. There’s something so comforting about the warm, spicy, and sweet flavor that we’ll happily indulge in all throughout the year—not just Thanksgiving. But classic recipes can often lean on the boring side of things. So, to amplify the flavor, Camille livened things up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a gingersnap crust. The result of her experiment is nothing short of divine.

Hero Ingredient: Give it up for that gingersnap crust. No one will miss the pie dough.

Classic Buttermilk Pie

Why We Love It: A classic buttermilk pie combines a tangy, custardy filling with a buttery crust. Seriously—what’s not to love? This recipe comes straight from Camille’s mom, who would make it each year for Thanksgiving. With plenty of vanilla, nutmeg, and yes—butter—it’s an easy bake that’s sure to have everyone begging for more.

Hero Ingredient: A buttermilk pie is nothing without plenty of buttermilk. It’s responsible for this pie’s unique, signature flavor.

No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bars

Why We Love It: Okay, sure—not a pie exactly, but that’s just because these cutie little bars are way easier to make. If you love the classic pumpkin pie flavors but want something that’s make-ahead, let me introduce you to the perfect dessert. These bars are made up of multiple layers: a graham cracker crust, pumpkin filling, and soft peaks of whipped cream. It’s impossible not to have these blow you away.

Hero Ingredient: The secret to the most pumpkin-y pumpkin filling? Homemade pumpkin butter—and it’s easier than you think.

Cookies and Bars

Chocolate Orange Linzer Shortbread Cookies

Why We Love It: There’s nothing prettier than a linzer cookie. And as intricate and aesthetic as they look, they also couldn’t be simpler to make. A soft and buttery shortbread dough (infused with orange zest for extra flavor) sandwiched around a velvety chocolate ganache. What could be more fun to bake? And of course, devour.

Hero Ingredient: Orange and chocolate are a winning combination—it’s a toss-up between the two.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

Why We Love It: Peppermint steals the spotlight when the holidays are in full swing, and come December, we can’t get enough. These cookies make the most of the chocolate and peppermint pairing, with peppermint extract, candies, and plenty of chocolatey flavor to boot. They’re simultaneously refreshing and indulgent—that’s right, it’s possible.

Hero Ingredient: Crushed peppermint candies not only give these cookies a beautiful pop of red and white color, but the added texture is such a delight.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why We Love It: No matter the season, these chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies will always satisfy my sweet craving. They’re balanced with a tiny bit of saltiness to complement the sweetness. Unlike other chocolate chip cookie recipes, the chopped chocolate chunks ensure these cookies stay extra indulgent.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin puree gives these cookies their unique, cozy flavor.

Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Why We Love It: Whenever I whip up these oatmeal cookies, my roommates and I will devour them for breakfast, lunch, dinner (and, of course, dessert). They’re not overly sweet, but super simple to make in a pinch when you need a fast dessert without all the sugar.

Hero Ingredient: I’m of the opinion that every cookie needs a sprinkling of flaky salt on top.

Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Why We Love It: For PSL fans, these pumpkin spice cookies might just give your favorite bev a run for its money. While no one wants to order the coffee version year-round, these cookies are perfect for whenever you need a dose of coziness.

Hero Ingredient: This cinnamon glaze is to die for.

Flower-Pressed Shortbread Cookies

Why We Love It: These might just be the most gorgeous cookies you’ll ever make. While the recipe stays true to its roots and remains easy, we love the little flourish of edible flowers that makes them all the more special. Serve these at an afternoon garden party with iced tea or as a sweet and simple after-dinner treat.

Hero Ingredient: Good butter makes for good shortbread. But I’d have to say, with this recipe in particular, the egg yolks edge it to earn top billing. Good ones give your cookies a gorgeous, golden hue.

Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Why We Love It: Two chocolate peppermint cookies recipes? The combination is that good. And while the recipe above did the pairing to perfection, these cookies feature a surprise molten center. Guaranteed: Santa’s going to eat these up.

Hero Ingredient: A double dose of peppermint in the form of crush candies and peppermint extract gives all the holiday flavor my tastebuds crave.

Gluten-Free Lemon Bars

Why We Love It: Since creating this recipe, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made these lemon bars. They are one of my favorite things to bake because I developed this gluten-free recipe with my mom, and those moments in the kitchen with her are some of my most treasured memories. Sentimentality aside, these lemon bars are the ultimate light and refreshing dessert that seems to complement every single meal. And, they come together in just 10 easy steps.

Hero Ingredient: A graham cracker crust, especially this gluten-free one, can’t be beat. 

Peanut Butter–Banana Cookies

Why We Love It: You would never know that these PB banana cookies are vegan and free of gluten and refined sugar just by tasting them. They’re decadent and crisp, while being made with only whole, real ingredients. Plus, they aren’t too sweet, making them perfect for a snack at any time of day, multiple times a day.

Hero Ingredient: The coconut sugar keeps these cookies refined-sugar-free and perfectly crispy. 

Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Brownies

Why We Love It: I’m never not craving brownies. I can’t think of a single scenario in which I could possibly turn down an ooey gooey brownie, and this GF/DF recipe makes it all the more tempting for me to give in. These are the first gluten- and dairy-free brownies that I’ve made that aren’t disappointedly crumbly. They come together in one bowl and will probably be gone in one hour. 

Hero Ingredient: The almond butter keeps the crumbles away, while the flavor stays. 

Double Chocolate Skillet Cookie

Why We Love It: This double chocolate skillet cookie is what all chocolate lovers’ dreams are made of. It’s crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and pairs perfectly with a scoop (or two) of ice cream. Plus, it’s easy to bake and pretty foolproof, making the process stress-free and fun. What’s not to love?

Hero Ingredient: The vanilla extract and espresso powder deepens the already-delicious chocolate flavor.

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Why We Love It: If you’re wanting to up your brownie game, look no further than these salted caramel cheesecake brownies. This recipe is one of the most fun things to bake because it brings in so many elements: the perfect fudgy brownie, a no-bake cheesecake layer, and the easiest homemade caramel. It comes together beautifully to create a sweet, salty, chocolatey dessert that you’ll make again and again.

Hero Ingredient: The cheesecake layer is game-changing. 

Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies With Tahini

Why We Love It: This is a sophisticated take on your favorite cookie. While you may think classic chocolate chip cookies don’t need an upgrade, it’s always fun to get a little creative. The tahini and chickpea flour add the perfect nuttiness to these delectable cookies, satisfying your sweet tooth with every bite. 

Hero Ingredient: Trust us, don’t swap for peanut butter. The tahini is both unexpected and delicious.

Cast-Iron Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why We Love It: This cookie skillet is made in one bowl, then baked and served from a single skillet. Simplicity aside, it’s also so unbelievably good. I prefer to eat it straight out of the oven topped with ice cream so that it’s warm, gooey, and delicious.

Hero Ingredient: M&M’s forever and ever. 

Vegan + Gluten-free Chocolate Chip Cookies from Café Gratitude

Why We Love It: This GF and vegan cookie recipe is one to save because it’s something everyone can enjoy. From your friend with a food sensitivity to your kids with sugar cravings, I dare you to find someone who has a negative thought about these chocolate chip cookies. They have a perfectly chewy, moist texture and are made with whole ingredients you can feel good about eating. 

Hero Ingredient: I’m very generous with the vegan chocolate chips (because why not?).

Muffins, Cupcakes, and Breads

Pumpkin Loaf Cake

Why We Love It: If you’ve yet to try your hand at a pumpkin bread recipe—let this be your first. Topped with a delicious homemade cream cheese frosting and crushed nuts of your choice, everyone will be begging for this recipe after the first bite.

Hero Ingredient: Cinnamon is the perfect, spicy-sweet touch.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

Why We Love It: A little bit zesty and sweet in one bite, these cranberry orange muffins are the perfect year-round snack or dessert. The secret ingredient? An addition of Greek yogurt for creaminess and moisture creates a fine, tender crumb.

Hero Ingredient: Dried cranberries add the perfect touch of tartness.

Citrus Olive Oil Muffins

Why We Love It: It’s very possible that all of my favorite things to bake feature edible flowers. How could you not love them? They make it possible to step up your sweet treat with a simple flourish that frees you from experimenting with any tough decorating techniques. (Piping? No thanks.) These “muffins”—call ’em cupcakes, if you’d like—have a perfect, moist crumb thanks to the olive oil. And the pop of citrus keeps them tasting fresh and light.

Hero Ingredient: These muffins boast countless powerhouse ingredients, but I’ll give the award to the Greek yogurt. Combined with the olive oil, it’s responsible for these treats’ fluffy, delicious bite.

Gluten-Free, Vegan Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Why We Love It: I can and will eat carrot cake recipes all year long. These gluten-free and vegan carrot cake cupcakes are one of my go-to’s and one of the most requested recipes I make. Last Easter, I made them in a mini cupcake tin, and they turned out to be the cutest, bite-sized dessert.

Hero Ingredient: You’ll never not add vegan butter to store-bought icing again. 

Two Hands NYC Banana Walnut Bread With Espresso Mascarpone

Why We Love It: I love a recipe that can be eaten for both breakfast and dessert. This twist on banana bread is an Austin favorite at Two Hands and now a family favorite at my house. The recipe for the bread is great on its own, but the simple espresso mascarpone elevates the dish and (warning!) makes it highly addictive.

Hero Ingredient: Finishing things off with a drizzle of honey goes a long way. 

Banana Pumpkin Muffins

Why We Love It: I stand by the fact that it’s never too early for all things pumpkin. No matter the weather, I’m always ready for one of these gluten-free dairy-free pumpkin muffins because they are that good. They are also super easy to make, come together in one bowl, and are refined-sugar-free. I guarantee these will become a year-round staple for you, too.  

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin people, unite!

Blueberry Power Muffins

Why We Love It: These blueberry muffins are a healthy excuse to eat cake for breakfast. They are gluten- and dairy-free and are delicious for a grab-and-go breakfast, afternoon snack, or even a dessert. I love that they pack in pecans for some extra nutrients, making these more filling than typical blueberry muffins.

Hero Ingredient: Pecan power. 

One Bowl Morning Glory Muffins

Why We Love It: The best way to start your day is with one of these morning glory muffins. They satisfy your sweet tooth just enough but are also packed with oats and grated fruits and veggies to give your day a healthy start. Bake a batch of these on Sunday and look forward to treating yourself to a deliciously healthy muffin every day of the week.  

Hero Ingredient: The super sneaky veggies bring moisture and plenty of vitamins to these unassuming delights.

No-Knead Olive & Rosemary Focaccia

Why We Love It: If baking bread intimidates you, I beg you to try this focaccia. It’s one of the easiest things to bake, though it definitely tests your patience with the resting periods (but it’s so worth the wait!). This bread is studded with rosemary, garlic, red onion, and olives, and will fill your kitchen with the dreamiest garlicky scent.  

Hero Ingredient: California Ripe Olives are the juiciest, richest, and most delicious olives you’ll ever eat.

Cakes and Tarts

Orange Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why We Love It: Have you ever seen a cake so pretty? While I often say that carrot cake is simply a vehicle for cream cheese frosting, this recipe proves that it can be so much more. The cake itself is perfectly spiced, with a teaspoon of cinnamon leading the charge. From there, this cake stays pretty true to tradition, except for…

Hero Ingredient: … the orange zest! Combined with orange extract, it lends a fresh, citrusy flavor that—IMO—every carrot cake isn’t complete without.

Lemon Icebox Cake

Why We Love It: Let me introduce you to your new crowd-pleasing, favorite cake. If you’re not familiar, icebox cakes sit perfectly at the intersection of incredibly easy and impressive. Layers of whipped cream and cookies go into the freezer to set, and the resulting cake is nothing short of magic.

Hero Ingredient: The lemon curd earns this cake its citrusy, sour name.

Gluten-Free Citrus Cake with Strawberries and Cardamom Coconut Cream

Why We Love It: Though I’m not gluten-free, I’m all for a dessert that everyone can eat—without sacrificing flavor or texture. Simply swap out your regular AP flour for gluten-free and the rest couldn’t be easier. It’s your basic cake-making method, but with the volume turned up.

Hero Ingredient: And don’t you dare skip the cardamom coconut cream. I’ll take another dollop, please and thank you.

Black Raspberry–Bourbon Mascarpone Tartlets

Why We Love It: Your summer dinner party needs these raspberry bourbon mascarpone tartlets. This recipe is guaranteed to surprise your guests and have them begging for seconds. Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps, though! While scrolling through the instructions may feel intimidating, this recipe is simpler than it seems. Plus, you can make all the components up to three days in advance, so feel free to spread out the work.

Hero Ingredient: The pistachio praline crunches the competition. 

Rhubarb Meringue Cake

Why We Love It: Oftentimes, the most fun things to bake are the recipes that are the easiest to whip up and the prettiest to look at. This rhubarb meringue cake definitely fits the bill. It only requires six steps and will have all your guests ooh-ing and ah-ing when they see it. Plus, you can make the compote two days in advance to save some prep on the day you serve the dish. 

Hero Ingredient: The crunchy sliced almonds are the perfect addition to the tender cake. 

Orange-Walnut Olive Oil Cake

Why We Love It: This is one of those recipes I had to try immediately after seeing it. It’s my ideal dessert: not too sweet and full of interesting flavor profiles. I’m not going to lie—it was a bit more labor-intensive than other cakes I’ve made, but aren’t all fun things to bake a bit of a challenge? I’ve never felt more satisfied pulling something out of the oven. My family ate this cake for breakfast, an afternoon snack, and dessert—our taste buds were never bored.

Hero Ingredient: I went nuts over the walnut flour flavor. 

Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake

Why We Love It: Strawberries have been my favorite food since I was a toddler, and these GF strawberry shortcakes are now one of my favorite ways to enjoy them. They are crispy, fluffy, light, satisfying, and downright delicious. Our Executive Producer, Michelle, notes that “they re-instilled in [her] a love of slowing down and enjoying the process of creating something from scratch.” I couldn’t agree more. 

Hero Ingredient: The strawberries are the star.  

Simple Pear Galette

Why We Love It: This dessert comes together with just a handful of ingredients, no special kind of pan, and minimal effort. The flaky dough pairs with the sweet fruit to create the perfect, not-too-sweet dessert for any occasion. This is your sign to pick up plenty of pears from the farmer’s market and get baking!

Hero Ingredient: Fresh pears are the perfect pair for this dessert.  

Mina Stone’s Olive Oil Cake

Why We Love It: Olive oil cakes are a new addition to my favorite fun things to bake, and I don’t know why I’ve waited so long to try them. This specific olive oil cake from Mina Stone is super simple, but so moist, citrusy, and delicious. While I’ll eat this cake all throughout the year, the cinnamon and clove flavors make it perfect for your holiday parties.

Hero Ingredient: Obviously, olive oil. 

Berries & Cream Layer Cake

Why We Love It: I made this cake for a Labor Day party last year, and my friends still talk about how good it was. It was simultaneously one of the easiest desserts I’ve ever made and one of the most raved about. I love that you can really put in as much or as little effort as you want, and the results will be the same. For the cake, you can either bake it from scratch, from a mix, or buy one pre-made. The same goes for the whipped cream. The point is, no matter how you go about building the components of this cake, the flavor satisfies every time. 

Hero Ingredient: The whipped cream has me whipped. 

Lemon Ricotta Poundcake with Candied Lemon Slices

Why We Love It: I’m a sucker for anything that boasts this lemon ricotta combo. From pancakes to pasta, the flavor pairing never gets old. Not only is this cake one of my favorite fun things to bake, but this recipe also teaches you how to make homemade ricotta, which is a skill I now brag about all the time. (It’s easier than you’d think!) 

Hero Ingredient: The homemade ricotta is a lotta fun. 

Cobblers and Crisps

Spiced Peach and Pecan Baked Oatmeal

Why We Love It: Baked oatmeal is a fun idea for a healthy and sweet breakfast. This spiced peach and pecan bake perfectly balances the fruity and nutty flavors that everyone strives for in their best oatmeal creations.

Hero Ingredient: Pair with Greek yogurt for an added bit of protein.

Blackberry Cobbler

Why We Love It: One of my favorite culinary activities is finding fun things to bake with whatever ingredients are in season. This specific recipe has two secret ingredients that make it the best cobbler of all time: the zest and juice of an orange and a cornbread-inspired batter. These two swaps make a world of difference and help it taste extra summery and delicious. 

Hero Ingredient: Orange you glad you know about adding this secret ingredient?

Brown Butter Bourbon Apple Crisp

Why We Love It: There’s no better way to welcome fall into your kitchen than with this Brown Butter Bourbon Apple Crisp. It’s a great transitional dish because while it’s full of fall flavors, you can serve it with a cold scoop of ice cream, and still enjoy it on a warm evening. You can customize the dish with different fruits, but whatever you do, don’t skip the brown butter. The richness that it brings and the way it complements the apple, oat, and cinnamon is to die for.   

Hero Ingredient: Bring on the brown butter. 

One Bowl Baked Banana Cashew Oatmeal

Why We Love It: Let’s be honest: I am not a morning person. No matter how much I wish I didn’t, I tend to roll out of bed 10 minutes before heading out the door. Thus, this baked oatmeal recipe is not only fun to bake, but it’s a morning lifesaver, too. It’s a pre-made breakfast that’s nutritious, delicious, and perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd on a weekend.

Hero Ingredient: Peanut butter, please!

The post 42 Things to Bake When You’re Bored at Home appeared first on Camille Styles.

When it comes to giving the gift of baked goods-bliss, the possibilities are endless. Some may get giddy at the sight of a shiny and sparkling sheet pan while others delight in a simple, but all-important cookie scoop. Here’s the good news: this list has it all. So, if you’re starting your shopping early (cue applause), you’ve come to the right place for the perfect baking present. And while we love giving gifts out of pure altruistic joy, who knows, maybe you’ll receive a batch of homemade cookies in return.

16 Best Gifts for Bakers You’ll Find This Year

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Anthropologie Old Havana Bundt Pan

Who doesn’t love a coffee bundt cake to warm up a winter morning? With its vintage design, this glazed stoneware bundt pan will make any baker squeal with delight.

Anthropologie Old Havana Bundt Pan

$58

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Figmint Stoneware Rectangle Baking Dish with Lid

This millennial-friendly line of baking tools and cookware blends an of-the-moment, neutral aesthetic with an ultra-functional ceramic finish. If cozy, comforting casseroles, cobblers, and crisps have been calling your name, here’s the answer.

Figmint Stoneware Rectangle Baking Dish with Lid

$40

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Caza Zuma Sabre Dessert Server

A dessert server is a must-have for the lover of all things cakes and loaves. These Casa Zuma dessert servers are elegant with bistro-style sensibility. While these are dishwasher safe, we recommend hand-washing to maintain the stunning wood finish.

Casa Zuma Sabre Dessert Server

$40

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Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Pro Nonstick 6-Piece Essential Set

Is there anything more quintessentially Christmas than a December afternoon spent baking away? This set comes with everything you need for a dreamy day of holiday baking. With a cookie sheet, muffin pan, two round cake pans, a half-sheet pan, and a cooling rack, this set has it all. Perfect for the person who recently moved apartments or someone just starting out on their baking journey.

Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Pro Nonstick 6-Piece Essential Set

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Pottery Barn Mason Stoneware Oil & Vinegar Cruet

These stoneware oil and vinegar bottles are sure to earn a permanent spot on your countertop. They bring the perfect neutral aesthetic with cruets that keep oil and vinegar fresh and protected from heat and light, and the tight-fitting spigots make for a smooth and easy pour.  

Pottery Barn Mason Stoneware Oil & Vinegar Cruet

$49

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Pottery Barn Mason Stoneware Spoon Rest

A simple stoneware spoon rest is an understated gem. Need somewhere to put your spoon while you’re taking a break from stirring your sauce? Don’t want to make a mess while you have to attend to another dish? A solid and stunning spoon rest is always the answer.

Pottery Barn Mason Stoneware Spoon Rest

$12

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Casa Zuma Oversized Linen Napkin

Part of channeling your inner chef is having a kitchen full of the best hosting essentials. These oversized linen napkins match any kitchen utensils or plate sets and look beautiful when paired with place cards or napkin rings.

Oversized Linen Napkin, Set of 2

$40

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Figmint Earthenware Ceramic Mixing Bowl Set

This stunning set of ceramic bowls is the perfect present for any friend who loves baking cookies on a mid-week whim. To round out the gift, you can nest the bowls and fill them with their favorite baking mix, a tea towel, and a spatula or whisk.

Figmint Earthenware Ceramic Mixing Bowl Set

$30

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Casa Zuma Linen Apron

For the friend who loves good design and good food—this linen apron has them covered in style. As an amateur baker, I love it when useful products meet stunning colors and materials to inspire my budding culinary prowess.

Casa Zuma Linen Apron

$82

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Figmint 11lb Digital Kitchen Food Scale White

Trusty cookware is a kitchen essential. And while definitely (multi-)functional, this kitchen scale is—bonus—a stunner on your countertop. Oh, and if you’re not yet as obsessed with the minimalist glass look as I am, just wait until you see it in your kitchen.

Figmint 11lb Digital Kitchen Food Scale White

$15

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OXO Non-Stick Rolling Pin

Good-quality rolling pins are a baking essential in every kitchen. Instead of having to constantly flour a rolling pin, this non-stick option is a great way to keep things tidy throughout the baking process.

OXO Non-Stick Rolling Pin

$18.89

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Hearth & Hand x Magnolia Metal Kitchen Cooking Timer

No more setting a timer on your phone and dirtying your screen with flour and oil. This metal kitchen timer makes for both a decorative and useful addition to any kitchen counter. Plus, it’s one kitchen item that any baker could use.

Hearth & Hand x Magnolia Metal Kitchen Cooking Timer

$8.99

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Material Kitchen The Good Shears

Lauded by Bon Appétit, GQ, and The New York Times, this might just be the best new pair of kitchen shears to take the culinary world by storm. Material Kitchen knows a thing or two about crafting beautiful, sustainably made kitchen tools. Constructed of German stainless steel and featuring silicone handles, consider our minds blown by these seemingly humble shears.

Material Kitchen The Good Shears

$35

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Hearth & Hand x Magnolia KitchenAid Artisan 10-Speed Stand Mixer

Is your giftee still waiting to pull the trigger on a stand mixer? Meet the one that’s worth the precious counter space (and price tag). With 10+ attachments, 10 speeds, and an exclusive color, this is the one to buy.

Hearth & Hand x Magnolia KitchenAid Artisan 10-Speed Stand Mixer

$379.99

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Casa Zuma Large Vintage Wood Board

Charcuterie, picnicking, or serving holiday desserts, this vintage wood board is one of the best gifts for bakers. The quality and patina of this board is sure to stun all of your guests.

Casa Zuma Large Vintage Wood Board

$275

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GRIDMANN Professional Silicone Baking Mat

While some may consider a sharpened set of knives to be the most essential kitchen tool, we’d argue that a set of tried-and-true silicone baking mats is most deserving of the designation. These mats save you some clean-up and ensure a more even bake. Plus, you won’t have to restock your parchment paper, and you can expect your cookies to crisp up to perfection.

GRIDMANN Professional Silicone Baking Mat

$10.49

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The post Start Your Ovens—These Are the Best Gifts for Every Baker on Your List appeared first on Camille Styles.

From the classics (pumpkin pie) to a new spin on Thanksgiving (salted caramel pots de creme), we have all the Thanksgiving desserts you could conjure up this holiday season. Trust us—these are recipes your guests will be begging you for.

17 Best Thanksgiving Desserts

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why We Love It: These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies might just win recipe of the year in my book. They’re the perfect amount of chewy, sweet, and salty that no one can resist. Besides, who doesn’t love a good pumpkin dessert? Especially on the holiday that they shine the most.

Hero Ingredient: A little bit of flaky salt is the perfect topping.

Pumpkin Pie with Gingersnap Crust

Why We Love It: If you’ve been searching everywhere for the perfect pumpkin pie recipe, you’re welcome. This pumpkin pie with a spicy, buttery gingersnap crust has everything you could want in the ultimate pie. Plus, if you (like myself) are not a big fan of traditional pie crust, you might just change your mind with this one.

Hero Ingredient: The gingersnaps are a game changer.

Pumpkin Cake

Why We Love It: Whether or not you whip this pumpkin cake up for Thanksgiving dinner or breakfast, everyone will be obsessed with this fluffy and nutty loaf. Topped with crunchy pecans that complement hints of cinnamon, it’s holiday spirit in every bite.

Hero Ingredient: Walnuts—because a little crunch goes a long way.

Cookie Tiramisu

Why We Love It: This cookie tiramisu is an absolute stunner if you’re going for presentation points with your Thanksgiving dessert. Delicious layers of espresso and chocolate chip cookies come together for this whimsical take on the Italian classic.

Hero Ingredient: Any chocolate chip cookies will do!

Salted Caramel Pots de Creme

Why We Love It: Caramel-flavored custard is combined with whipped crème fraîche to build these individual salted caramel pots de creme. If you haven’t tried your hand at this indulgent French dessert, put it on your list for this Thanksgiving.

Hero Ingredient: Salted caramel sauce tops it off.

Pumpkin Pie Bars

Why We Love It: If baking a pie doesn’t seem appealing (or perhaps doesn’t fit into your schedule), these pumpkin pie bars are a simple alternative. With all the pumpkin pie flavors you love, you won’t be missing out on anything—including that classic whipped cream topping.

Hero Ingredient: Dust with a pinch of cinnamon.

Walnut Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Why We Love It: You’ll likely find me snacking on coffee cake if someone happens to bring it to Thanksgiving dinner. This crunchy walnut and sweet cream cheese blend will win me over every time. And if you partake in a sweet post-Thanksgiving breakfast, this will easily steal the show.

Hero Ingredient: Sour cream is the secret ingredient that keeps this cake moist.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie

Why We Love It: When baking for a large crowd, putting out desserts everyone can enjoy is a must. This gluten-free pumpkin pie is just as delicious as your traditional recipe while accommodating those with dietary restrictions.

Hero Ingredient: Top with a dollop of whipped cream.

Buttermilk Pie

Why We Love It: Buttermilk pie is a Thanksgiving essential. The creamy, custard-based pie is surprisingly light and airy, and the buttermilk gives it a welcome tangy flavor that perfectly contrasts the pie’s sweet ingredients.

Hero Ingredient: Grated nutmeg adds a special element of nutty spice.

Speculoos Pumpkin Pie Tarts

Why We Love It: Aren’t these pumpkin pie tarts cute as can be? These are the perfect options for those who prefer a more personal touch to their Thanksgiving desserts, and the flavor will still blow you away.

Hero Ingredient: Candied pepitas are the winner.

Healthy Apple Crumble

Why We Love It: Apple cinnamon is a winning flavor combo in any dessert. If you don’t have a house full of pie enthusiasts, this buttery, oat-laced topping is the best alternative to put out on the table.

Hero Ingredient: Date coconut sugar adds a nice touch of sweetness—without the ensuing sugary hanvoer.

Pumpkin Cookies

Why We Love It: Think: mini pumpkin bread. These cookies somehow stay chewy and somehow never dry out. They’re the perfect blend of sweetness and spice that no one will expect for dessert.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin puree is a must.

Pumpkin Snack Cake

Why We Love It: This pumpkin snack cake perfectly blends coffee cake vibes with a crunchy streusel topping. It all gets dusted in a soft snowfall of powdered sugar that will look and taste the part.

Hero Ingredient: The streusel is the best part of this cake, and this recipe has all of our best tips on how to perfect it.

Tres Leches Cake

Why We Love It: Tres Leches is the perfect holiday cake because it can be prepped a day or two in advance, only getting better with time. If you’ve loaded your menu with too many things to cook during the holiday season, this recipe will be your savior.

Hero Ingredient: A little bit of espresso adds a caffeine kick to this cake.

Chocolate Pecan Slab Pie

Why We Love It: Unlike your typical pecan pie—doused in corn syrup—this chocolate pecan slab pie uses melted butter and a generous amount of dark brown sugar to create a richer, deeper caramel flavor. If you need a last-minute dessert, make this your go-to.

Hero Ingredient: Cheers for pecans!

Brown Butter Bourbon Apple Crisp

Why We Love It: This apple crisp is simply mouth-watering. When baking with apples, mixing a variety of sweet and tart is the key to success. Who doesn’t want the best of both worlds? 

Hero Ingredient: We recommend Granny Smiths and Pink Ladies/Gala for this crisp.

Chai Carrot Cake

Why We Love It: This carrot cake is cardamom-forward, not too sweet, and the perfect canvas for a tangy cream cheese frosting. Fresh carrots are essential for the best light and fresh flavor everyone will enjoy.

Hero Ingredient: Almond milk brings a little bit of subtle creaminess to this delectable cake.

The post 17 Thanksgiving Desserts That Are Guaranteed Crowd Pleasers appeared first on Camille Styles.

15 Vegan Thanksgiving Sides Everyone Will Love

This list is full of both classic and creative recipes for all of your favorite Thanksgiving sides that no one will even know are vegan. Because between potlucks, Friendsgiving celebrations, and all the many gatherings you’ll host and attend this season, you’re bound to encounter a friend or family member who will appreciate creamy mashed potatoes (sans the cream).  And here’s my hot take: they might even be better than the real deal.

Roasted Honeynut Squash with Hot Honey, Pecans, and Rosemary

Why We Love It: If you’re going for ‘wow’ factor in both presentation and taste, you have to make this side dish. Teeny and cute honeynut squash spends a little time in the oven getting caramelized and crisp. Layered on your favorite platter with radicchio, pecans, garlic, and honey (sub maple syrup to make it vegan), this recipe is my new Thanksgiving fave. Note: the recipe includes goat cheese, but you’re welcome to sub in a dairy-free option or skip it entirely.

Hero Ingredient: I have a thing for squash, and honeynut is my new favorite. Seriously, have you ever seen anything cuter? And they’re not just pretty to look at. As Camille notes, “Deep orange in color and slightly reminiscent of a mini butternut, the honeynut squash is packed with sweetness, nuttiness, and an undeniable charm that elevates any dish.” Now doesn’t that sound totally delish?

Honey Roasted Carrots With Spicy Citrus, Sage & Pepitas

Why We Love It: Even if you aren’t a cooked carrot fan, this recipe might win you over with its secret sauce. It has the perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and spice finished with fresh sage that gives it major autumn vibes. You can’t say you don’t like cooked carrots until you try this recipe. 

Hero Ingredient: The pan sauce, because it can be added to any fall veggie in your fridge. 

Harvest Kale Salad

Why We Love It: Both fall and winter’s best ingredients shine in this side salad. It’s made with a simple olive oil and lemon vinaigrette, and it might just be your new favorite Thanksgiving item. Served as a side or an appetizer, everyone can enjoy this recipe. Just be sure to ditch the brie or swap in a dairy-free alternative to keep it vegan.

Hero Ingredient: It’s a toss-up between the pear and pepitas, but I’ll go with the former—because during the colder months, it’s my favorite fruit.

Sweet & Sour Cider-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Dates & Pecans

Why We Love It: Instead of leaning on her typical method of roasting halved sprouts until crispy, Camille shreds these into thin little ruffly bites, then does a hard sear in a cast-iron skillet to get the perfect char. A quick toss in a sweet vinegar sauce with a secret ingredient (apple cider!) and a sprinkle of toasted pecans, dates, and chili flakes, and voilá. You have a killer vegan Thanksgiving side.

Hero Ingredient: Apple cider gives this dish major fall feels. 

Make-Ahead Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Why We Love It: You had me at make-ahead, but vegan too? Incredible. If you’re hosting the feast this holiday, these mashed potatoes are a must-make for your meal. With all of the craziness involved in cooking on Thanksgiving day, you’ll be grateful for the extra stovetop space these taters free up.

Hero Ingredient: Rosemary is the flavor-packed star of this vegan show. I love the aromatic, peppery taste the herb imparts.

Roasted Delicata Squash

Why We Love It: Like some of the other sides in this roundup, you’ll want to drop the crumbled feta and sub in maple syrup for honey to make it vegan. But beyond that, this no-fuss recipe comes together with ease and so much deliciousness. Delicata squash is seriously underrated, and it’s a fave this season as it requires zero peeling on your part. (I can’t say the same for butternut squash.) Key spices like cumin, coriander, and red chili powder help this recipe stand out, and thyme ties it all together beautifully. Points for gorgeous presentation, too.

Hero Ingredient: All the herbs, please. Cilantro, mint, and parsley are the trifecta of fresh flavor.

Vegan Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Why We Love It: Do you have mac and cheese at Thanksgiving? My family doesn’t, but this recipe makes me wish we did. I could seriously eat it every day. The dish comes together in 20 minutes and is made with an easy thick and velvety vegan cauliflower cheese sauce poured over macaroni noodles (which can easily be subbed for gluten-free pasta). 

Hero Ingredient: Cauliflower is a chameleon. 

Apple Walnut Salad

Why We Love It: This fall salad is so simple, but it’s the focus on minimal, flavorful ingredients that helps it shine. I love the peppery bite of arugula paired with crisp, thinly sliced apples. Drop the goat cheese to make it vegan, or make the most of my favorite dairy-free recipe that couldn’t be easier.

Hero Ingredient: As they say, an apple a day—and this salad is my favorite way to get my fill.

Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

Why We Love It: Soup might not be the most traditional Thanksgiving dish, but this vegan butternut squash soup pairs perfectly with the meal. It’s healthy, but it has so much flavor that you won’t even care. 

Hero Ingredient: Coconut milk makes this soup so comforting and creamy (without the cream).

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole with Maple Pecan Topping from Jessica in the Kitchen

Why We Love It: Instead of covering your sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, you have to try this recipe that tops the dish with chopped pecans and plenty of maple syrup. The nutty streusel-like topping makes the dish vegan but also adds a delicious flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the base. 

Hero Ingredient: The finished product of the crumble topping is good enough to eat by itself.

Simple Vegan Dinner Rolls from Minimalist Baker

Why We Love It: Have no fear, vegan dinner rolls are here. And they are only seven ingredients and easy to make. Rolls are one of my favorite parts of the meal, so I truly believe that no one should have to turn them down. This is one of the vegan Thanksgiving sides that is a real show-stopper. 

Hero Ingredient: The vegan butter melts in your mouth.

The Best Vegan Cornbread from Rainbow Plant Life

Why We Love It: I’m a huge fan of cornbread in the fall. This simple vegan recipe requires only 20 minutes of prep and pairs perfectly with everything from Thanksgiving dinner to a warm bowl of chili. It’s also easily made gluten-free and refined sugar-free with just a few suggested swaps.

Hero Ingredient: What is cornbread without the yellow cornmeal?

Vegan Stuffing from Love & Lemons

Why We Love It: Stuffing is essential at my Thanksgiving table, and I’m obsessed with this vegan take. Onions, celery, and sautéed mushrooms fill it with so much savory flavor. And while other stuffing recipes lean a little on the beige side, this recipe features kale, dried cranberries, and plenty of sage on top for a picture-worthy presentation.

Hero Ingredient: Sage is non-negotiable in stuffing.

Naturally Sweetened Cranberry Sauce

Why We Love It: Homemade cranberry sauce has never been easier. This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, refined-sugar-free, and delicious. The orange, cinnamon, and maple syrup give this classic Thanksgiving side a unique twist that your guests will love.

Hero Ingredient: The orange zest really is the best. 

Roasted Cauliflower & Parsnip Mash from Unbound Wellness

Why We Love It: My mom made this recipe for Thanksgiving last year, and it’s a new family favorite. The addition of parsnips to the classic mashed cauliflower gives it even more of the beloved potato flavor. It’s also paleo and Whole-30. Be sure to substitute ghee for olive oil or coconut oil to be 100% vegan. 

Hero Ingredient: Parsnips give it both the texture and flavor of potatoes. 

The post 15 Vegan Thanksgiving Sides That’ll Make You the Star of Every Holiday Potluck appeared first on Camille Styles.

It was during those late-night work sessions that my slight obsession with menu planning was born. For me, settling in with my cookbooks and designing a menu for a dinner party is a true creative outlet. Over the years, friends have shared that they feel ill-equipped in the area, and I get a lot of menu-planning questions from you guys here and on IG—especially as the holidays approach.

How to Approach Thanksgiving Menu Planning

Intuition is a key ingredient in my Thanksgiving menu planning process. However, when it comes to this holiday in particular, I lean on a tried-and-true formula that checks all the boxes for what the people want, without totally exhausting the host (me) or resulting in way too much food. Some leftovers are good. But a massive casserole dish that barely got a dent put in it? Not so much.

Read on for my tried-and-true Thanksgiving menu planning formula, then get inspired with some of my favorite recipes so you can mix and match to make it your own.

My Thanksgiving Menu Formula

Here’s the general formula I use when deciding what we’ll be serving each year. Thankfully, most of my family members are great cooks, so I also use this formula to divvy up what people will bring potluck-style.

• Turkey. Adam usually fries one, and I often roast a second turkey for leftovers. If we’ve got a really big group, we’ll pick up a honey-glazed ham, too.
• Gravy. Not my favorite, but it must be done.
• Potatoes. Mashed, roasted, or scalloped.
• Dressing. Or “stuffing,” depending on where you live. Cornbread, white bread, wild rice, oyster.
• Orange Vegetable. Sweet potatoes, butternut squash, acorn squash, carrots.
• Green Vegetable. Brussels sprouts, green bean casserole, broccolini, sautéed greens like collards or kale.
• Bread. Rolls, focaccia, cornbread. I usually pick these up from a local bakery.
• Pies. Pumpkin, pecan, chocolate, buttermilk, apple, I could go on and on.

Remember: if you’re having a smaller group, choose your faves and leave the rest. Just because it’s Thanksgiving doesn’t mean you need to spend the entire day in the kitchen.

Now for the fun part! Scroll on for my favorite recipes for Thanksgiving. Choose one from each category, and you’ve got yourself a foolproof Thanksgiving menu all served up.

Turkey

Brined Roast Turkey

No matter how many turkey recipes are out there (thousands? millions?) not a November rolls by that I don’t type “What’s the best Thanksgiving turkey recipe?” in my Google search bar hoping to gain some clarity. And although there are many delicious ways to cook ’em, from stuffed to spatchcocked to fried, it’s hard to beat the simplicity of a classic brined roast turkey—especially when it’s cooked to perfection with crispy skin and an interior that’s juicy and flavorful. So, in an effort to finally nail down the absolute best, foolproof technique for a brined roast turkey, I called in the pro: Michael Fojtasek, the owner/chef of award-winning restaurant Olamaie, here in Austin.

Potatoes

Make-Ahead Vegan Mashed Potatoes

It’s hard to picture Thanksgiving without a savory bowl of buttery-smooth mashed potatoes on the table. And this crowd-pleasing version can actually be enjoyed by everyone. It just so happens to be vegan without sacrificing any of the classic creaminess that they’re all craving. Perhaps the best part of these mashed potatoes is that they can be made a couple of hours ahead of the feast so you’re not scurrying to mix them up when everything else is going on the table. Starring Yukon Golds, these have a velvety texture that’s to die for. 

Faux Parmesan Cauliflower “Potatoes”

As a self-pronounced mashed potato connoisseur, the idea of cauliflower mashed potatoes did not originally excite me. How could they possibly live up to the real thing? This recipe for faux parmesan cauliflower mashed potatoes from chef and author, Helene Henderson’s cookbook, Malibu Farm Sunrise to Sunset, alleviated all of my doubts. Not only do they look like cheesy mashed potatoes, but they taste like them, too. I have tried cauliflower mash after cauliflower mash, and no other recipe can match this one’s authentic potato flavor.

Orange Vegetable Side

Roasted Honeynut Squash

Everything about this roasted honeynut squash recipe makes it a top-tier option for your Thanksgiving menu planning options. Topped with pecans for the perfect crunch and hot honey for a bit of a kick, guests will be raving over this unique and flavorful side.

Sweet Potato and Caramelized Date Salad

Sweet potatoes are an obvious choice for an orange Thanksgiving side dish, but this salad is anything but basic. Pomegranate seeds bring a tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the autumn root veggie, and caramelized dates encapsulate the perfect sweet salad topping.

Roasted Acorn Squash

When it comes to Thanksgiving sides, Tieghan Gerard, aka Half Baked Harvest, absolutely nailed this roasted acorn squash. Squash is always a filling side that everyone loves, but isn’t always prepped to its fullest potential. It’s balanced, sweet, and a little bit nutty. What more could you ask for?

Blood Orange and Beet Salad

Have you ever seen a prettier color combo? Bring the beets and oranges in a bowl separate from the yogurt, then arrange on a platter just before serving.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes With Brown Sugar Cornflake Crunch

If you love a nostalgic take on recipes, this classic Thanksgiving side dish was made for you. The filling is made of fresh mashed sweet potatoes and topped with a crunchy, brown sugary topping for the ultimate blend in textures. One bite will bring you right back to your golden youthful days watching Saturday morning cartoons and eating a big bowl of cornflakes. 

Roasted Delicata Squash and Kale Salad

Sheela Prakash shared her kale salad recipe from her cookbook, Mediterranean Every Day. It’s warm, comforting and our favorite salad to include in our Thanksgiving menu planning. 

Honey Roasted Carrots with Sage and Pepitas

Halved carrots are tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted at 425 F until just cooked through and crispy on the edges. Meanwhile, I make the secret sauce on the stovetop: a deliciously syrupy mixture of orange zest and juice, rice vinegar for a burst of acidity, a big squeeze of honey, sliced jalapeño or a shake of red pepper flakes (I go back and forth), and the key addition of fresh sage, which perfumes the entire dish with autumn vibes.

Dressing/Stuffing

Vegetarian Skillet Cornbread Stuffing With Kale and Caramelized Onions

This vegetarian cornbread stuffing streamlines the usual process by omitting that first step of baking a loaf of cornbread, then crumbling or chopping it up before folding in the mix-ins. This one is more of a cornbread/stuffing hybrid: you make an awesome cornbread batter and fold all the toppings and seasonings right into the mix, then bake it all together. Not only does it make the entire process quicker start-to-finish, but I love the rustic look of serving it right from the cast-iron pan it bakes in, especially with the vivid shades of red onion and kale crowning the top. 

Green Vegetable Side

Sweet & Sour Cider Brussels Sprouts

Instead of leaning on my typical method of roasting halved sprouts until crispy, I shredded these into thin little ruffly bites, then did a hard sear in a cast-iron skillet to get the char I’m always after. A quick toss in a sweet vinegar sauce with a secret ingredient (apple cider!) and a sprinkle of toasted pecans, dates, and chilli flakes, and these are pretty close to perfect.  

Holiday Jewels Kale Salad

Look no further for the most stunning (and simple) salad your Thanksgiving menu planning mind could imagine. Apples, pomegranate seeds, and a mouth-watering mustard-shallot vinaigrette make these greens a must-have for all your holiday gatherings.

Cacio E Pepe Brussels Sprouts

I’m already obsessed with Brussels sprouts, but when you add parmesan, lemon zest, and hazelnuts to the mix, consider me dead.

Pies & Tarts

Pumpkin Pie with Gingersnap Crust

This pumpkin pie is my all-time favorite. While pumpkin is most people’s classic Thanksgiving pie, I find it can get a little boring without enough flavor built in. Thankfully, this recipe is full of sweet and spicy notes, and the gingersnap crust is the most genius take on tradition. (If I do say so myself.)

Classic Buttermilk Pie

This Classic Buttermilk Pie recipe is a Styles family classic. My mom is the pie baker in the family—we always beg her to make all the pies for Thanksgiving. So I think you’re going to love this classic buttermilk pie recipe. It’s so simple to make, yet the flavor is rich and delicious. 

Easier-Than-Pie Warm Apple Tart

This tart is hard to cut warm, but it melts in your mouth. (And no one minds a warm crumbled apple tart spooned into a bowl, with ice cream melting on top.) Cool, it is equally alluring and easier to serve in perfect slices. But the best thing about this tart—besides eating it—is knowing how easy it is to make it again. 

Apple Ginger Pie (Gluten-Free)

When the time rolls around to do my Thanksgiving menu planning, this pie always seems to make the cut. Granny Smith apples keep the pie from being overly sweet, and the warm spices make a slice of pie the comfiest cozy dish to curl up with after-dinner—and for breakfast the next morning with a cup of coffee! 

Chocolate Pecan Slab Pie

This always-delicious classic is bulked up to feed a crowd. The trick is doubling my favorite recipe and baking it in a jelly roll pan instead of a classic pie tin. Cut into squares instead of sliced in triangles, it’s similar to a pecan bar but doesn’t skimp on the gooey pecan filling. 

Now, I’m going to post up in front of the fire with my hot tea and stack of cookbooks. Happy Thanksgiving menu planning!

This post was originally published on November 12th, 2020, and has since been updated.

The post I Always Use This Exact Formula for My Thanksgiving Menu Planning appeared first on Camille Styles.

We’ll kick things off with the ultimate cooking hack: good, reliable cookware and tools you can use for years of memorable meals. We’re obsessed with Target’s new brand, Figmint—and it’s the true hero of today’s post. Every piece is designed to help you have more fun in the kitchen. (And it doesn’t hurt that the collection makes for stunning social content—in case you want to show off your kitchen prowess.)

Watch All My Cooking Hacks in Action in the Video Below

Acacia Wood Carving Board with Juice Groove Natural – Figmint

$25

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Ribbed Glass Carafe Clear – Threshold

$15

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10pc Wood/Nylon Kitchen Utensil Set Brown – Figmint

$30

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7 Cooking Hacks to Help You Have More Fun in the Kitchen

Ready to make meal prep a breeze? Our cooking hacks and kitchen secrets abound. When it comes to hosting (and even getting a weeknight meal on the table), we have all the inspiration you need to ensure your kitchen rituals spark joy.

12pc (set of 6) Plastic Food Storage Container Set with Lids Clear – Figmint

$20

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1. Meal Prep as Much as Possible

Meal prepping is perhaps the oldest cooking hack in the book. But hello… if ain’t broke, don’t fix it! Especially when you’re hosting, try to do the majority of work in advance. To ensure you get to enjoy the party as well—and that you’re not overwhelmed when guests arrive—identify the tasks that can be done ahead of time.

This is my favorite cooking hack from her catering days. In the days before your party, ask yourself, “What can I do now that will save time later?” This could look like:

• Roasting veggies beforehand.
• Composing a menu of dishes that can be made a day or two in advance. (Grain salads, soups, etc.)
• Serving the meal as a buffet to streamline your table setup.
• Opting for a store-bought dessert or making cookie dough to be baked as guests arrive.

Steal Camille’s trick: In need of some recipe inspo? These are my favorite make-ahead dishes for hosting:

Holiday Jewels Chopped Kale Salad

Roast Chicken With Tomatoes, Lemons, & Cilantro Salsa Verde

Sweet & Spicy Braised Short Ribs

Easy Homemade Pizza

Hand Held Mandoline Green – Figmint

$15

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8pc Glass Set of 4 Mixing Bowls with Lids Clear – Figmint

$20

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2. Work Smarter With a Mandoline

Raise your hand if chopping veggies is your least favorite kitchen task. It can take up so much time, but thankfully, there’s an easy cooking hack to streamline the process. I’m partial to this handheld mandoline from Target. It not only makes chopping so much faster, but your veggies look elevated as well. Think: thin cucumber slices for salads, apples for your best-ever crisp, and even sweet potato chips for an aesthetic appetizer.

Steal Camille’s trick: Simply adjust the thickness to suit whatever you’re slicing. The mandoline’s food guide helps keep your fingers away from the blade (so key). I’m tempted to say this might be one of my favorite kitchen tools—everyone needs it in the cooking arsenal.

Dual Sided Terry Kitchen Towel – Figmint

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3. Place a Towel Under Your Cutting Board

I’m terrified to think of all the close calls I’ve had with my cutting board slipping around. Yikes. Ready for a mind-blowing cooking hack? Simply wet a dishtowel and slide it under your cutting board. Everything stays where it should and you can proceed with your worry-free chopping. Keep this cooking hack in your back pocket for future, mind-at-ease use.

All Purpose Scraper and Chopper Gray – Figmint

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4. Use Chef-Grade Cooking Tools

I’m always shocked to hear how few people own a multi-purpose scraper. (If that’s you, add to cart immediately.) Chefs love them because they make so many tasks easier and faster. You can level off ingredients in measuring cups and spoons, slice bread, remove scraps from your cutting board, etc. The list is honestly endless.

Steal Camille’s trick: My favorite use is to quickly chop up my fresh herbs and slide them right into the bowl. This would also make the perfect gift for the hostess or kitchen enthusiast in your life.

2pk Wood Salad Serving Spoon Set Brown – Figmint

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Ceramic Vinegar Pour Bottle Cream – Figmint

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5. Say Yes to Mise en Place

This is another cooking hack I love stealing from professionals. “Mise en place” simply means arranging your ingredients—often prepped, measured, and portioned out—to streamline the cooking process itself. It’s another opportunity to do some work in advance. That way, you can simply grab and go when the time comes to put it all together.

Steal Camille’s trick: One thing I love to do is measure out all my ingredients before I start cooking. Then, I corral the ingredients for each recipe I’m making on sheet pans to help me stay organized and keep my mise en place for each dish separated.

5.5qt Enamel Dutch Oven – Figmint

$60

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6. Turn Your Scraps Into Scents

I used to bemoan the difficulty of composting in the city. That was until I caught wind of an amazing up-cycling cooking hack. When you’re baking something sweet this holiday season, save your scraps. Making pie? Save your apple cores. Orange pound cake? Stash your citrus peels. When you have enough gathered up, it’s time to make a simmer pot. And trust me: even the coziness of your favorite candle can’t compare.

Steal Camille’s trick: When I’m hosting, I love to make my house smell amazing. Instead of tossing my apple cores and orange peels, I simmer them in hot water with cinnamon sticks and spices. The entire house instantly smells like fall. This is perfect for holidays or any type of cozy get-togethers. 

17.28″ Adjustable Wood Rolling Pin Light Brown – Figmint

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6ct Nonstick Aluminized Steel Jumbo Muffin Pan – Figmint

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6pc Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons – Figmint

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7. Streamline Your Holiday Cookie Decorating

IYKYK: Nothing beats the excitement of whipping up your tried-and-true holiday cookies. When it comes to leaning into the season, there’s truly nothing better than putting on your cozy clothes (slippers, a fave sweater, and the comfiest sweats) and going to town. But we get it… when you’re whipping up dozens of cookies, a mess seems inevitable. Thankfully, muffin tins make it easy to keep all your toppings straight.

Steal Camille’s trick: For sprinkles, sparkling sugar, candies, and more, I love using a muffin tin to make quick work of clean-up. Simply portion out your decorations into each of the tins. Bonus: All the colors and hues will look so pretty corralled together.

You can shop the entire look on my Target storefront, where you’ll find all of my favorite Target buys for every space.

This blog post is sponsored by Target and contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us continue providing helpful content.

The post 7 Cooking Hacks to Help You Actually Enjoy Hosting appeared first on Camille Styles.