VIA MERCHANT

We can’t promise your dog will want to wear a birthday cake hat, but just one picture of him in it is priceless. It comes in two sizes and has an adjustable toggle to secure it in place. If your dog just isn’t in to wearing anything on his head, go for a birthday bandana instead. Get ready for Instagram likes!

VIA MERCHANT

Plush Birthday Cupcake Dog Toy

Shop on Chewy

If it’s a dog birthday party, there have to be pet presents. Here’s one that’s perfect for the occasion. This plush dog toy is the shape of a festive birthday cupcake with colorful sprinkles and a candle. He’ll enjoy playing with it at his party and it’ll provide fun long after the bash ends.

VIA MERCHANT

Birthday Cake Mix

Shop on Chewy

What’s a birthday party without a birthday cake (or pupcake?) This microwavable mix quickly creates a pet-friendly festive birthday cake that all the dog attendees are sure to enjoy. Made with dog safe carob, it’s easy to make and promises delicious results. Plus, you can re-use the bone-shaped pan for birthdays to come. Yep, the kit includes a birthday candle.

VIA MERCHANT

Personalized Face Photo Banner

Shop on Etsy

It’s hard to find a cuter dog birthday party decoration than a banner with your dog’s face on it. This pick uses a photo of the dog of honor to create a celebratory banner. Just send a picture of your dog’s face (chances are you have a few thousand), and the result is a handmade photo banner featuring your pooch in a birthday hat.

VIA MERCHANT

Dog-Friendly Ice Cream

$16.99 at Amazon

I scream, you scream—even dogs scream for ice cream. This pet-friendly ice cream comes in individually portioned flavors like banana, bacon and peanut butter. Just blend the powder with water and freeze for a few hours, and the treat is ready for all the four-legged guests to enjoy. This is an especially fun dog birthday party idea in the summer.

VIA MERCHANT

Personalized Party Invitations

$2.77 at Zazzle

Set the tone and save the date of your dog birthday party with customized paper invitations. Fill out your party invitations and dog’s details, then mail the invites to Fido and Rover for an RSVP. Adorable!

VIA MERCHANT

Bone-Shaped Birthday Candle

$3.99 at Etsy

Add a bone-shaped birthday candle to the birthday dog’s kibble or cake to make the party extra special. Customize it with your dogs age and select from four color choices. You’ll have to help them blow it out. Make a wish!

VIA MERCHANT

Dog Birthday Napkins

$12.50 at Etsy

Human birthday party guests will ooh and ahh over these fun black and white cocktail napkins adorned with, “Sit. Stay. Drink.” Pair them with these birthday cocktails and stick with clean water as refreshments for the dogs.

VIA MERCHANT

Natural Dog Birthday Treats

$34 at Etsy

If we were planning a party for humans, appetizers would absolutely be on the menu. The same can be said for a dog birthday party, where this gift set of hand decorated birthday-themed dog biscuits shaped like bones, cones and crowns will be a sure hit. There’ll be no fighting over this tasty treat when the pup and all his friends are getting their own. And yes, the “icing” is safe for dogs. You can celebrate the day by ordering from some of the items on the secret dog menu or try your hand at homemade treats, too.

VIA MERCHANT

Personalized Party Paper Plates

$2 at Zazzle

Let the human revelers in on the dog birthday party fun with these personalized party paper plates. Customize with a birthday message to your pooch and the shape you want. Each order comes in a set of eight.

VIA MERCHANT

Dog Birthday Party Game

$3.07 at Etsy

Party games are an important part of any birthday party, and this fun game is a hit for dog owners. Print out this digital download and pass it around to attendees. Pups earn points for tricks and owners check boxes on their furry friends’ experience. It’s sure to get guests mixing and mingling. Don’t forget to have a prize for the winner!

VIA MERCHANT

Thank You Party Favor Box

$3.10 at Zazzle

Sending the pups and their humans home with a goodie bag is the perfect finishing touch. These favor boxes are decorated with a party dog and a customizable thank you message. They come in a 10-pack and can be filled with anything from pet toys and treats to dog poop bags. Pick up some party favors for the adults, too.

The post 12 Paw-some Dog Birthday Party Ideas appeared first on Taste Recipes.

I strongly believe in the power of scent. When I walk in my front door, I want to be struck by a clean and pleasant fragrance—not lingering odors from last night’s dinner (yuck).

To combat unwanted kitchen smells, I light yummy candles and use room sprays and scented cleaning products—but sometimes that’s not enough to overpower simmered onions and burned Brussels sprouts. I’d have to wait for the fumes to fade.

In my constant battle against kitchen odors, I was very excited to try out Caldrea cleaning products. The brand of high quality home essentials and cleaning products feature fragrant essential oils with lasting power. Could Caldrea clean my kitchen and leave it smelling good?

To find out, I tested a bunch of their cleaning products, including the Caldrea countertop spray and Caldrea hand soap. I even lit a Ginger Pomelo Caldrea candle. Here are the results.

What Are Caldrea Cleaning Products?

Caldrea has offered a winning combination of fragrance + efficacy + transparency since it launched in the United States in 1999. These are luxury-inspired cleaning products with a mid-range price point, and they’re available both on Amazon and Caldrea’s website.

Each product is made with essential oils of flowers and herbs, and the company is transparent about their eco-friendly ingredient list. For instance, in the Ginger Pomelo scented products I tested, the ingredient list includes basil oil, aloe leaf juice and bark extract.

What isn’t in the products might be even more important! Caldrea products are made without phthalates, triclosan, formaldehyde, artificial colors, parabens and animal-derived ingredients.

One con, however, is that the cleaning products are sold in plastic bottles. If you’re looking for a glass-bottle cleaning line with refillable concentrates that also smell amazing, check out our Grove Co. review.

How Did We Test Caldrea Cleaning Products?

For this Caldrea test, I went straight to the kitchen. I made a pot of fragrant Thai shrimp soup and a big batch of spicy curry with roasted vegetables. After the meal prep session, my kitchen was an absolute disaster: burned coconut milk on the glass stove, peanut butter smears and shrimp shells on the counter and a sink filled with sheet pans loaded with stuck-on veggies.

The kitchen (and my adjacent open living room!) smelled like onions, garlic, curry paste and that odor that always comes from the oven no matter how often I clean it. Before busting out my Caldrea products, I took the dog for a walk, so I could return with a fresh nose. The kitchen smelled exactly as you’d expect after cooking a big feast—not good.

Caldrea to the rescue!

Caldrea Countertop Spray

Caldrea countertop spray is one of the most popular products, and it comes in nine unique fragrance combinations like Pear Blossom Agave and Basil Blue Sage. I tested the Ginger Pomelo countertop spray. I immediately liked the beautiful fruit and flower illustration on the packaging—pretty enough to keep out on the counter. A whiff from the bottle gave citrus notes with a hint of floral spice from the ginger. Yum!

A quick spritz on the quartz countertop instantly broke down saucy spills which I easily wiped up with a plant-based sponge. The formula made fast work of burned-on coconut milk on the glass stovetop, too. Sometimes products made with essential oils are too heavy for stainless steel appliances, but not Caldrea. I used the spray on the stainless steel refrigerator door handle, dishwasher front and microwave buttons. (How do they get so dirty?) The smudges wiped away without leaving any film. Success!

Pros:

What we liked about Caldrea Countertop Spray

• Bright scent
• Easily broke down stains and oily, saucy messes
• Worked nicely on hard-to-clean surfaces like microwaves and dishwasher handles

Cons:

What to consider about Caldrea Countertop Spray

• Strongly scented formula may not be ideal for those who prefer unscented or lightly scented products

$34.99 at Amazon

Caldrea Dish Soap

Once the major messes were cleaned off surfaces, I moved onto the sink filled with dirty dishes and cookware. I oven-roast veggies pretty much every week, and even with parchment paper I find that olive oil, seasonings and the occasional onion make their way onto my baking sheets—and are almost impossible to remove. I was interested to see how Caldrea dish soap stood up to the test.

Caldrea dish soap uses soap bark extract as a secret weapon degreaser. I also feel good knowing the formula is biodegradable.

I squirted a dollop of dish soap on my dirty pans and blasted them with hot water. The soap immediately lathered into a rich foam and the citrusy smell was a major improvement over charred red pepper. I broke out a silicone sponge to help break down burned food, and the mess cleaned right up. I had similar success washing copper pans. Rinsing wasn’t an issue either, no film and shiny results.

Pros:

What we liked about Caldrea Dish Soap

• Biodegradable formula
• Pleasant citrus scent
• Effective cleaning, even on stuck-on surfaces
• No film after washing

Cons:

What to consider about Caldrea Dish Soap

• More expensive than other dish soaps on the market

$16 at Amazon

Caldrea Hand Soap

After cleaning kitchen surfaces and dishes, my hands needed a wash too! The Caldrea hand soap has the same pretty green and nature-inspired packaging as the cleaning products—it’s nice enough to use in the guest bathroom!

My first impression of Caldrea hand soap was how good it smelled. It’s similar to the countertop spray and dish soap, but even richer and more fragrant. The formula is made with olive oil and aloe vera, both known for moisturizing properties. After a quick wash my hands smelled lovely and felt soft.

Pros:

What we liked about Caldrea Hand Soap

• Nature-inspired packaging and ingredients
• Smells ever richer and more fragrant than the brand’s household cleaners
• Made with moisturizing aloe and olive oil

Cons:

What to consider about Caldrea Hand Soap

• Packaging may vary depending on scent

$16.99 at Amazon

Caldrea Scented Candle

I already mentioned that I regularly light a scented candle after I clean the kitchen. It serves as both a fragrance boost, and feels like a nice ritual that symbolizes the kitchen is clean and closed for the night. (With the exception of a late-night Popsicle treat, of course.)

The Ginger Pomelo Caldrea scented candle comes in an elegant eight-ounce glass jar etched with a green geometric design. It has a burn time of 45 hours, and I’ve burned it for about 20 hours so far. The burn is consistent and even—no tunneling.

Some scented candles are so strong that I get a fragrance headache, but the Caldrea candle has a subtle scent. I can smell it within 10 feet of where I place it, and the citrus aroma with a ginger top note smells delicious.

Pros:

What we liked about Caldrea Scented Candles

• Generously sized eight-ounce jar
• Expensive-looking glass etching
• Subtle-to-medium scent that lingers but won’t overpower most rooms

Cons:

What to consider about Caldrea Scented Candles

• Moderate luxury pricing makes these candles best for special occasions and gifts

28.0046% OFF$14.99 at Amazon

Caldrea Linen and Room Spray Air Freshener

I prefer scented candles to room sprays. The fragrance lasts longer coming from a candle than spraying the air. I had similar results with the Caldrea linen and room spray air freshener. It definitely smells amazing (all citrusy and tropical) for a few minutes, but the scent dissipates pretty quickly in the air.

That said, I did spritz this on my tea towels and noticed the cloth held the scent! I now use Caldrea air freshener to refresh the kitchen towels, and give a quick kitchen and entryway spritz if I know guests are coming over.

Pros:

What we liked about Caldrea Linen and Room Spray Air Freshener

• Adds bright, positive fragrance notes to any room of the house
• Refreshes stale linens in an instant
• An immediate alternative to candles

Cons:

What to consider about Caldrea Linen and Room Spray Air Freshener

• Scent dissipated quickly in the air, although fabric held it nicely

18.0014% OFF$15.44 at Amazon

Caldrea FAQ

Do Caldrea products come in glass or plastic packaging?

Caldrea products come in easily recycled plastic packaging. This also helps the brand cut down on shipping costs so they can offer Caldrea products at modest price points.

Is Caldrea countertop spray safe for quartz and granite?

The gentle cleaning agents in Caldrea sprays are safe for most stone countertops and provide an easy spray alternative to potentially damaging formulas like Windex. Here’s how to clean granite countertops like a pro though.

Is Caldrea hand soap antibacterial?

While it isn’t designed to be fully antibacterial, it does wash away most dirt and impurities with ease.

Do Caldrea products come in other scents?

Yep, and Taste Recipes’s Executive Editor Ellie Martin Cliffe tested a few herself. She found Basil Blue Sage to be a “soft herbal scent that doesn’t overpower. It includes basil, sage and rosemary essential oils, giving my home a fresh, clean smell.”

Lavender Cedar Leaf has a soothing quality, and “I feel calmer every time I catch a whiff of this scent,” Ellie says. “The relaxing blend of lavender, cedarwood and eucalyptus oils has staying power, but doesn’t smell too strong, even when you’re using it.”

The energizing Tangelo Palm Frond is citrusy and woodsy. “It wakes my senses right up while I’m cleaning and stays around afterward,” according to Ellie.

What other reviewers had to say about Caldrea products

“This must be what heaven smells like,” writes verified Amazon purchaser, Erika Stark, of the Caldrea lineup. “The scent is nowhere near overwhelming, but still lasts for days. A little bit goes a long way and there is minimal wiping effort for my household surfaces; there is certainly no scrubbing required. My countertops are left gleaming in the sunlight, even if far away from any light sources.”

Mallory Wang, another five-star Amazon reviewer, writes, “The appeal of this product is the scent, which is lovely. I haven’t gotten a Caldrea item yet that I haven’t liked the smell of. I think Rosewater Driftwood might be my favorite so far. Another thing I like about this product is that it doesn’t leave streaks on my black stone countertops like a lot of products do. I use this spray as a multipurpose cleaner on a lot of things around my home.”

Product Comparison

Caldrea products stand up well to their cleaning product competitors and the best cleaning subscription boxes on the market. Although knowing the standard-sized bottles fit in the best under-sink organizers is appealing, the scent is where this brand really stands out. The thoughtful scent combinations and use of essential oils puts Caldrea in a category of its own and catapults it to the head of the premium fragrance line.

The best part? The entire lineup of easy-to-use Caldrea products is moderately priced, meaning most households can afford to give this line a try. You don’t have to be an expert-level cleaner to appreciate how simple these scented wonders make tidying up.

The Final Verdict on Caldrea Cleaning Products

After I used all five Ginger Pomelo Caldrea cleaning products, I left the house to return with a fresh nose. As soon as I opened the front door, I was struck by a floral bouquet of grapefruit and zing of ginger. Yum! What meal prep? I was impressed that the Caldrea products cleaned my kitchen, left it smelling fragrant, and looked pretty while doing it. I can’t wait to finish the Ginger Pomelo bottles so I can try Rosewater Driftwood next. My kitchen smells good!

Where to Buy Caldrea Cleaning Products

The entire lineup of Caldrea products can be found on Amazon, Walmart, Grove Co. and even Home Depot. Most of the line’s bestselling products can be found under $20, with some items offered in impressive family-friendly sizes for less than $12. The widest variety of scents, sizes and bundles is offered on the brand’s Amazon page, though, where shoppers suggest “snagging the best scents” quickly ahead of selling out. But don’t worry—they’re all good.

Shop Now

The post I Tried Caldrea Cleaning Products—and My Kitchen Smells Amazing appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Self-Watering Indoor Herb Planter

Plant a garden of parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme in this self-watering indoor herb planter. A handy, built-in water level indicator tells you when (and how often) your plants need a drink. Aeration holes allow for easy drainage and healthy roots. Get it in six-, eight- or 10-inch sizes and a rainbow of colors. By the way, these are our favorite ways to use fresh herbs.

$18.88 at Amazon

Freestanding Woven Pot

This 22-inch high rectangular-shaped woven wicker planter is designed for indoor or outdoor use. Align it with a wall or window, and plant fragrant basil or oregano inside. This versatile beauty even comes with a self-watering system and osmotic pebble layer to slow the flow of water. By the way, this is the best way to keep herbs fresh.

Shop on Home Depot

Psst! If you’re looking for something a little extra, check out our AeroGarden review.

Stackable Vertical Garden

One of the key principles for maintaining an orderly home is taking advantage of vertical space, and this herb garden planter does just that. Five stackable pots hold up to 20 different herbs and come with built-in drainage that allows for a trickle-down self-watering design. The included 10-inch stone saucer catches any drips. Get the planter in five colors, including pink and black. These secret ingredients can help your garden grow.

$36.95 at Amazon

Chic Ceramic Herb Pots

This adorable trio comes in three chic designs so you can easily distinguish your thyme from your tarragon. The three-inch ceramic planters fit on the windowsill and make for an adorable indoor herb garden for growers who love modern design. The included bamboo trays look chic and protect wood from water damage. Along with herbs, we suggest filling one of these planters with an adorable bunny succulent for spring.

Shop on Amazon

Indoor Hanging Planter

Take your gardening to new heights, literally. This eight-inch modern planter features a hanging pot that mimics concrete and a simplistic rope detail. The overall look is clean and lets your plants steal the spotlight. Just make sure to hang your herbs in a sunny spot!

Available for $43.47

Vintage Pot and Tray Set

If rustic-chic is the look you’re after, look no further than this indoor herb planter made of hammered, galvanized steel. The trio of textured pots come in a matching drainage tray that has protective pads on the underside. Use up fresh basil in one of these tasty recipes.

19.9510% OFF$17.99 at Amazon

Chalkboard Planter Set

This set of three mini planters comes with everything you need to get growing. Each kit includes pots with an internal drip tray and a chalkboard surface, soil pellets, herb seeds, chalk and an instruction booklet. Choose from basil, oregano and thyme or cilantro, parsley and chives.

32.9521% OFF$25.95 at Amazon

Herb Planter with Scissors

As the name implies, this white ceramic trough-style planter comes with its own pair of scissors for snipping herbs—and a handy, built-in holder for the shears. The indoor herb garden is build to sit on your windowsill and has room to grow about four different herbs.

Shop on Crate & Barrel

Herb Pots in a Leather Handled Tray

Reminiscent of a tiny filing cabinet, this indoor herb planter is actually made of steel with a powder-coated finish. The pots come pre-labeled with parsley, basil and thyme, but all you need is some masking tape to make your own DIY labels.

Shop on Williams Sonoma

Fluted Windowsill Planter

No room for a window box? No problem. This sturdy planter stays inside and features three pre-portioned compartments perfect for growing herbs. The white, fluted design ensures this piece fits with any decor style, too.

Shop on West Elm

The post 10 Pretty Planters That Make It Easy to Grow an Indoor Herb Garden appeared first on Taste Recipes.

After doing some research, I decided to give my cheap ceramic knife set a rest and upgrade to a high-carbon stainless steel chef’s knife—the Misen chef’s knife to be exact.

What is a Misen Knife?

Misen was created on Kickstarter by restaurant chefs who saw an opening in the knife market for a more affordable knife that delivers on design, geometry, weight and balance points. The team consulted with a metal specialist and industrial designer to get it right. And to keep prices down, Misen manufactures the knives themselves and uses a direct-to-consumer internet model.

The Misen chef’s knife is a hybrid-style knife. It has a traditional German-style curved blade and the thin profile and light weight of a Japanese-style knife. The handle features a forged bolster for superior balance and control. It’s also comfortable to hold, even during precise cuts.

Materials are another advantage. The handle is made of a very dense plastic composite and the blade is made of premium AUS-10 Stainless steel. Like a Japanese knife, the blade is sharpened at 15 degrees, for a steep angle that gives a sharp edge.

Psst! Misen also makes a super strong set of kitchen shears.

How I Tested a Misen Chef’s Knife at Home

Straight out of the box, I could see and feel the quality of the Misen knife. The blue handle felt solid in my grip, and the weight of the blade was evident. I asked Taste Recipes’s Executive Culinary Director, Sarah Farmer, what to look for in a knife. Sarah explained, “A good all-purpose chef’s knife, which you’ll use all the time, is like an extension of your own hands and should be comfortable. I always tell people to be like Goldilocks—make sure you find the right fit. Not too heavy, not too light.”

To thoroughly test the knife, I used it for all of my cooking and meal prep tasks that required cutting over the last few months. Slicing onions, zucchini and bell peppers for vegetarian chili was the first task. I immediately noticed that cutting thin slices was so easy due to the razor sharp blade. There’s enough clearance on the down cut where I don’t rap my knuckles on the cutting board.

One cutting chore I absolutely dread is slicing up whole butternut squash. The Misen knife made quick work of getting through the tough peel (no microwaving required) and dicing the flesh into cubes. Other cutting chores made easy? Dicing fresh herbs without bruising the delicate leaves, cutting up raw chicken breast and thinly slicing garlic. It’s my go-to knife for slicing apples for a snack and creating perfect tomato and mozzarella rounds for caprese salad.

Seventy five dollars might sound like a big price tag for one knife. But Sarah explained that a good quality, high-end knife can cost anywhere between $150 to $400. At $75, the Misen knife is a steal. Find out if ceramic cookware is worth the investment, too.

Misen Knife Pros

• Comfortable to hold without digging into the hand
• Eight-inch blade is just the right length
• Hybrid shape allows for numerous cuts
• $75 is an affordable price tag for a high-quality chef’s knife
• Blade sharpened at 15 degrees for precision cutting
• Chef’s knife works for a variety of cut needs, from meat to herbs to veggies
• Handle comes in four color options

Misen Knife Cons

• Depending on how much you budget for knives, $75 might be steep
• Softer than alloy, requires regular sharpening

How to Care for a Misen Knife

Like most knives, a Misen knife should never see the inside of a dishwasher. (Make sure you’re not abusing your knives!) Wash the knife by hand with soap and hot water, and dry it before putting away in a knife holder. While you’re at it, don’t forget to clean your knife block.

What Other Reviewers Have to Say

Since the Misen chef’s knife launched in 2019, it’s drawn a cult following among home chefs. The knife has a 4.9 star rating with over 8300 reviews. Here are some five star raves from verified buyers.

Dorothy S. says, “This knife is amazing! The blade is so well honed, it cuts with little to no effort. Comfortable to handle.”

Jacob G. writes, “The knife is incredibly thin and I really like how light it feels in the hand compared to some other knives that were thicker toward the top. It handles really nicely and also arrived incredibly sharp!”

OldGuyToo L. said, “This chef ‘s knife is awesome. It is sharp and handy, and fits my hand like it was made for it. I was helping at a church dinner, and ended up chopping vegetables for two-and-a-half hours. The knife was so comfortable my hand didn’t even feel tired at the end (though the rest of me certainly did). Great knife at a fantastic price considering what you get.”

The Final Verdict

No matter how you slice it, I love the Misen chef’s knife. It’s my first “professional” knife and now that I know how much a quality knife has improved my cutting and cooking skills, I’m not going back to my old ceramic set. After multiple months of consistent use, I can tell that the blade will need to be sharpened soon.

I’ve got my eye on the Misen serrated knife next. And I can’t wait to put the Misen chef’s knife to task for Thanksgiving prep this year. I’m even considering gifting a knife to my mom for Christmas!

Where to Buy a Misen Knife

A Misen chef’s knife is only available directly through Misen’s website. The chef’s knife costs $75. You can also find an essentials knife set, singular knives, cookware like a Dutch oven and prep cook tools. Returns are free and each product comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Available for $75

And once you have your knife, make sure you know how to hold it correctly.

The post Is a $75 Misen Knife Worth the Investment? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

But when it comes to lighting candles, I’m not so in love with matches and lighters. I’ve singed my fingertips and tried to strike dud matches more times than I can count. And I don’t like tossing used-up plastic fluid lighters in the trash. But it turns out there’s a better way to light candles: an electric candle lighter. Now, I light candles with the touch of a button.

Psst. If you like this, you might also like the viral Candle Warmer Lamp. Oh and, here’s how to stop your candle wicks from mushrooming.

What Is an Electric Candle Lighter?

Electric candle lighters, also called rechargeable lighters, solve the problem of finicky and dangerous matches and lighters. Instead of using flammable fluids or friction to start a flame, electric candle lighters contain a lithium-ion battery in a slim case about the size and length of a thick pencil.

Once charged, you simply slide up the cover to reveal a button. Click it and get a small electrical arc that’s much hotter than an open flame. You’ll also hear a small zapping noise and see a bright line of light. Touch that line to the candle wick and your candle will light immediately. Magic!

Since you’re not dealing with an open flame, you can use an electric candle lighter in outdoor or windy situations. There’s no smoke, waste, or flames to deal with.

These candle accessories give you the most burn for your buck.

Why I Love Using an Electric Candle Lighter

An electric candle lighter is one of those home items I don’t realize I needed until I had one. Not only is an electric candle lighter super simple to use, it’s cost-effective, reduces waste and is safer than using open flames to light wicks.

The long neck reaches wicks in large jars—a serious struggle with matches. And I can hold the electric candle lighter upside down and sideways without disrupting the electric charge.

I’ve had my electric candle lighter for over four months and I’ve used it almost every day and charged it once. Manufacturer’s instructions state that one charge lasts about 400 uses. It takes about 20 minutes to fully charge the lighter after the battery dies.

Pros

• Light candles with the touch of a button
• Configured to use on all candle depths and sizes
• No smoke! And no smoke pollutants
• Flameless is much safer than matches and lighters; no burns
• It’ll light in any conditions, regardless of wind or fans
• Power lights remind you when it needs a charge
• Safety switch automatically turns off after seven seconds
• No lighter fluid required

Cons

• You have to remember to charge it! (But the battery lasts months.
• The initial cost is more than most matches

Where to Buy an Electric Candle Lighter

I bought my electric candle lighter on Amazon for $9.99. I chose black, but it’s also available in more fun and fashionable colors like rose gold, ruby red, sapphire blue, space gray, and tiffany blue. If you’re gifting a friend with a candle, add an electric candle lighter to the gift bag. I promise, they’ll love it.

$9.99 at Amazon

The post I Tried a $10 Electric Candle Lighter and I’m Never Using Matches Again appeared first on Taste Recipes.

After reading positive reviews and researching the ingredients further, I just had to test the sampler pack to give my honest Recess drink review. Here’s what happened to my stress levels—and mood.

VIA MERCHANT

We Tried It

Recess CBD Sparkling Water

Enjoy natural feel-good ingredients including fruit, herbs, American ginseng and L-theanine.

$29.99 at Recess

Shop on Amazon

Shop on Walmart

What is Recess sparkling water?

Recess is a line of fruit-flavored CBD sparkling waters infused with natural ingredients. Recess promotes its beverages as “an antidote to modern times” and claims they help drinkers achieve focus, relaxation, creativity and balance. Each of the six sparkling water flavors is infused with hemp extract and adaptogens thought to keep you mellow and relaxed.

The sparkling waters also contain other natural feel-good ingredients: American ginseng is known to improve memory and focus. Mood-brightening L-theanine is a sleep-improving amino acid found in tea plants. The lemon balm gives a gentle boost of energy.

Recess sparkling waters are also flavored with fruit and herbs to make them taste yummy. Each 12-ounce can has between 15 and 30 calories, four to six grams of carbohydrates and three to six grams of sugar—depending on which of the six flavors you choose.

Please note that while CBD use appears to be generally safe, like many supplements, these claims aren’t backed by the FDA.

Recess Sparkling Water Features

The Recess sampler features six flavors: coconut lime, blood orange, black cherry, peach ginger, pomegranate hibiscus and blackberry chai. Order the drinks in either a one-time-purchase six-pack or a subscription 12-pack. The latter option lets you set recurring deliveries every two, four or eight weeks. You also save $10 per pack with a subscription.

Recess Product Specs

• Six available flavors: peach ginger, blackberry chai, pomegranate hibiscus, black cherry, coconut lime, blood orange
• Powered by CBD
• Feel-good ingredients like American ginseng, L‑theanine and lemon balm
• No “crash” like with alcohol or caffeine
• Available as a one-time purchase or subscription
• Low in calories, sugar and carbs

Adaptogens and Benefits

While Recess’s CBD content is certainly the star of the show, its other ingredients—namely its adaptogens, like ginseng and lemon balm—also may offer a significant, beneficial impact to some users. These natural herbs, roots and other plant substances help reduce stress and improve focus, making Recess a functional drink beyond just its CBD content.

Effects and Timing

As Recess largely lacks caffeine and is free of psychoactive ingredients, you can drink it at any time without worrying about a crash or a hangover. That said, many users report enjoying drinking Recess in the early afternoon to help boost focus and productivity, reduce daily stress, and even invigorate themselves as the day goes on.

How We Tested It: Recess Drink Review

My Recess drink review was as easy as cracking open a chilled can, popping a metal straw inside and sipping. Since I’ve tried CBD gummies before, I wasn’t nervous about drinking CBD, but I did want to do a thorough test to feel the effects.

I’m a regular at Pilates, and I don’t like to go to class if I’ve recently had a cocktail or glass of red wine. Alcohol and balancing exercises simply don’t mix—not to mention the sleepy side effects I sometimes get after happy hour. I had a Pilates class scheduled after work, and I was feeling the late afternoon slump. Instead of pouring a late afternoon coffee that could disrupt my sleep, I decided to drink a can of the peach ginger Recess.

Thoughts after the first sip? Yum! The peach flavor tasted straight from Georgia, and the ginger added a slightly spicy note that I liked. I didn’t detect anything medicinal or chemical. As for bubble strength, I’d positively compare it to a can of La Croix. About 20 minutes after I drained the can, I felt calm and focused. It wasn’t intense or distracting, and I got through my Pilates class feeling both relaxed and concentrated on the instructor’s vocal cues. I didn’t have any trouble falling asleep that night.

After the successful Pilates test, I opened the pomegranate hibiscus can before a long afternoon Zoom conference call. I’m not the biggest hibiscus flavor fan, but I did like the fruity pomegranate. Results were similar to how I felt after the first can: generally calm, relaxed and able to focus on the agenda and deliverables. What work anxiety?

Recess Zero Proof Mocktails

The brand also offers nonalcoholic canned cocktails. They don’t contain CBD. Rather, Recess’ zero-proof craft mocktail collection mimics the flavor profile of popular cocktails like a margarita, Paloma, mojito and Moscow mule while leaning on mood-boosting adaptogens and natural feel-good ingredients to go from “buzzed to balanced.” The real kicker? They only have 5 grams of sugar and 25 calories each. Plus, a little caffeine (10mg, to be exact) to keep you feeling social.

“I’m always looking for ways to cut back on booze by replacing my favorite cocktails with drinks that actually support my well-being, and out of all the non-alcoholic cocktails, spirits, wine and beer I’ve tried, the Recess zero-proof drinks are in my top three,” says Product Reviews Home Editor, Madi Koetting. “The flavors come pretty close to the real thing, but the difference with Recess is I actually feel a relaxing buzz. I was impressed that after just one and a half cans of their mocktails, I felt the same relaxing sensation as if I had a glass of wine. But the difference is I can feel good about what’s going into my body thanks to Recess.”

Pros

• High-quality taste
• Real fruit flavors are refreshing and not overly sweet
• Hemp and ginseng promote a calm, serene feeling and focused concentration
• Low in sugar, calories and carbs
• The matte tropical and pastel color cans are gorgeous

Cons

• At $5 a can, it’s more expensive than regular sparkling water—but still cheaper than many CBD-infused products

FAQ

Do Recess drinks have CBD in them?

Yes, each can contains a small dose (10mg) of broad-spectrum hemp. Rest assured, though, that Recess does not include THC, the compound found in marijuana that results in a high. That makes Recess completely legal to enjoy.

At this point in my life, I’ve more or less stopped drinking. Sure, it’s fun in the moment, but I hate the post-cocktail crash. Recess CBD sparkling water is the solution I’ve been looking for during Dry January and beyond. It has fun flavors, a satisfying fizz and a combination of ingredients that makes me feel better, not worse. Plus, I love that I can enjoy Recess as a mid-day pick-me-up

Move over, Perrier; I’m filling my mini fridge with Recess. After I drink a can, I feel zen and focused, without any crash side effects or hangover feeling that can come from consuming caffeine or alcohol. And Recess tastes good and looks cute in the fridge.

Looking for more feel-good bubbly drinks? Try our favorite prebiotic and probiotic soda brands, best kombuchas or bubbly hop waters.

Where to Buy Recess Sparkling Water

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We Tried It

Recess CBD Sparkling Water

This CBD-infused sparkling water promotes focus, relaxation, creativity and balance.

$29.99 at Recess

Shop on Amazon

Shop on Walmart

Order the six-pack Recess sampler directly from the brand’s website, or pick up select flavors at Amazon or Walmart. A one-time six-pack will run you $30 while a subscription 12-pack costs $50. While on the pricier side, each can still costs less than even the cheapest drink at the bar or a craft coffee at a cafe. Plus, you just can’t beat that relaxed, productive feeling!

The post Recess Drink Review: We Tried Sparkling CBD Water to Reduce Stress appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Scandinavian Hearts Tea Towel

The embroidered Scandinavian heart print on this tea towel got our hearts all aflutter. The red or black heart pattern is pretty enough to double as a cloth table napkin. Sure, this tea towel might get the most love around Valentine’s Day but it works year-round. This is a super fun gift for your Galentine. Here are more Valentine’s Day gifts that aren’t chocolate.

Available for $13.99

Personalized Tea Towel

Put a name on it! This personalized tea towel features greenery and your choice of personalization. The design is thoughtfully placed on the center bottom of the tea towel so it can be displayed tri-folded (making it easy to read). If you like personalized gifts, check out these pretty recipe books (you can monogram #9).

Available for $29

State Tea Towel

Show some state pride! Each state towel is a vibrant collage of iconic names, images and landmarks that highlight the things that make your birth or adopted state so special. Each towel is silk screened and then framed with a hand embroidered border. The Nebraska state towel features everything from Scotts Bluff to Creighton University and Willa Cather.

Available for $23

Wildflowers Tea Towel

There’s something so pretty about this vintage-inspired wildflowers tea towel. It features a variety of wildflower specimens and their Latin names. You might want to consider framing it, but it’s 100% cotton so you can actually use it to pat dry fresh herbs or display it in a bread bowl. If you’re gifting the tea towel, it comes packaged in a lovely muslin bag.

Available for $18.99

Pioneer Woman Fancy Flourish Towels

Fans of the Pioneer Woman (that’s us) will love Ree Drummond’s whimsical flower tea towels. They come in a pack of two. And yes, there is a matching Instant Pot—thanks for asking!

Shop on Walmart

22.9913% OFF$19.98 at Amazon

Measurement Conversion Tea Towel

A handy dandy ounces to tablespoons and cups conversion chart printed on a pretty tea towel! File this one under: genius. And the black print adds a little panache that’s totally giftable. They’ll thank you the next time they can’t remember how many tablespoons are in a quarter cup.

$13.95 at Amazon

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Champagne Tea Towel

Wrap this tea towel up with a bottle of bubbly (or a non-alcoholic champagne) and voila, the perfect gift!

Available for $12.36

Peyton Tea Towel

The Peyton tea towel is just the thing for a farmhouse or Cottagecore kitchen. The delicate weave and subtle texture look lovely in white and light blue. Inspired? Here are more farmhouse decor items to transform your kitchen.

Shop on Anthropologie

FAQ

What is the point of a tea towel?

Tea towels are versatile cloths used for drying dishes, covering baked goods, lining serving trays or adding decorative touches to the kitchen.

What is the difference between a kitchen towel and a tea towel?

Kitchen towels are thicker and designed for heavy-duty cleaning, while tea towels are typically thinner, more decorative and often used for light drying or decoration.

What type of tea towels are the best?

The best tea towels are made from absorbent, durable materials like cotton or linen, and they should suit your intended use (functional, decorative or both).

Are cotton or microfiber tea towels better?

Cotton tea towels are better for drying dishes and aesthetics, while microfiber towels are great at absorbing spills and cleaning without streaks. Choose based on your needs.

The post 8 Tea Towels That You’ll Want to Gift for Any Occasion appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What Is Tajin?

For the uninitiated, Tajin is a delicious Mexican seasoning. It consists of dried and ground red chilies (a combination of chiles de arbol, guajillo and pasillo), sea salt and dehydrated lime juice. It combines the tastes of salt, sweet, sour and heat for a zing-like effect that punches up raw fruit and vegetables.

It’s pronounced ta-HEEN, which shouldn’t surprise Spanish speakers. Tajin was founded in Guadalajara in 1985, and the company now sells products in over 35 countries. In Mexico, a bottle of Tajin in the cupboard is as common as an American family’s bottle of seasoning salt.

What Is Tajin Good On?

Mexicans traditionally sprinkle Tajin on sliced mango and juicy watermelon. Think of it as a chile lime salt that makes summer’s produce bounty taste even better!

I first tasted Tajin sprinkled on a fresh coconut that was cracked open with a machete on the beach in Los Cabos, Mexico. The chile lime salt sparked against the nutty coconut flesh, and I was instantly hooked. You might say it was love at first bite.

The combination of sweet, salty and spicy enhanced the coconut. I started brainstorming all the ways I could use Tajin in my own kitchen. I flew home with two Tajin bottles in my suitcase, planning to give one away as a gift—but ultimately kept them both for myself. (Sorry, mom.) Back home, I still regularly reach for Tajin, especially to shake on fresh produce—machete not required.

I also like to use Tajin on crunchy slivers of cucumber, as the finishing touch on avocado toast and as an updated rim for flavorful bloody Marys and Mexican micheladas. Another thing Tajin is good on? Popcorn!

You can also mix Tajin with sour cream to create a citrusy dip, perfect for veggie sticks and pita chips. Celebrity chefs are also in on the Tajin game. Claudia Sandoval, winner of the sixth season of the United States edition of MasterChef, adds Tajin to her recipe for seven-layer dip.

Where to Buy Tajin

Not headed to Mexico anytime soon? Don’t worry, you can find various sizes of Tajin seasoning on Amazon, at Walmart and at Target. Tajin also makes a convenient rimmer package for bloody Marys. And, if you love the sweet and spicy combination, treat yourself to a bag of Tajin peach rings!

4.4911% OFF$4.01 at Amazon

The post What Is Tajin—and Why Are People Obsessed with It? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What’s more, you likely won’t see this much inventory on sale again until Labor Day weekend in September. To make it easier on you, we rounded up all the dates, details and promo codes below (and we’ll keep updating).

The Best Memorial Day Kitchen and Home Sales

Home and kitchen appliances

Amazon: Never one to be left out of a sale, Amazon has discounts on small kitchen appliances like blenders, air fryers and waffle makers.

Best Buy: The electronics superstore is offering hundreds off its most popular appliances—including refrigerators, washing machines and more—with discounts ranging from 10 to 40% off usual prices. It’ll also be stocking its Appliances Outlet landing page with hundreds of new deals at up to 40% off. Best Buy offers some of the biggest appliance sales each year.

Bissell: Take 15% off orders up to $100 and 20% off all orders over that threshold from May 28 through May 31. Stock up on vacuums and stain removers of all types.

CAFÉ Specialty Drip Coffee Maker: This top-rated coffee brewer is on sale for 29% off now through Memorial Day weekend. At $100 off its usual price tag, it’s a must-shop. The deal will also be offered on Crate & Barrel‘s and Williams Sonoma‘s websites.

De’Longhi: Save up to $200 off popular espresso-making machines like the Dinamica Plus, La Specialista Prestigio, and La Specialista Maestro this May 22 through May 31. It’s a rare opportunity to save on top-of-the-line De’Longhi machines—and one of the best Memorial Day weekend deals of 2022.

Dyson: Shop Dyson’s best deals of 2022, including $100 off select Dyson vacuums and air-purifying appliances.

ESPRO: From May 26 through May 31 shoppers can take 20% off sitewide at ESPRO, a leader in home coffee brewing and coffee making.

Lowe’s: Lowe’s is where you’ll find appliances at up to a third off their usual prices. Editor’s tip: This retailer offers an aggressive price-match policy that spans most other major retailers.

Maytag: May is Maytag Month, which means shoppers can get up to a $200 rebate via prepaid card by mail or save up to $200 via instant rebate with the purchase of select Maytag appliances. The promotion will run from April 28 through June 1 and makes this already affordable brand even more budget-friendly. The best part? The more you buy, the more you save.

The Home Depot: If it’s time to replace some big-ticket home items, this superstore is another place you’ll definitely want to be over the holiday weekend. From May 19 through May 30, find deals on refrigerators, a Frigidaire gas range, and a Samsung microwave, among other deals. Plus, get free delivery on qualifying purchases of $396 and more.

Tineco: Now through June 1, Tineco is offering up to 40% markdowns on top-selling stick vacuums and floor washers at Walmart, including the iFloor 2 and Pure One X. Dyson vacuums are up to $150 off!

Home decor, furniture and linens

Amazon: Spruce up your outdoor space with up to 43% off patio chairs, including rocking chairs, Adirondack chairs and space-saving foldable chairs.

Allswell: Save 20% on mattresses with code MEMDAY20 from May 19 to May 26, then the discount increases to 25% off from May 27 to May 31.

Amerisleep: Take $300 off any mattress with code AS300, and also save 30% on adjustable bed bundles, no code necessary. These deals run from May 15 through June 6.

Anthropologie: Get up to 25% off the retailer’s already discounted bedding, home decor and bedroom furniture throughout the second half of May. And for the holiday weekend specifically, save up to an additional 40% off on all sale items (excluding furniture.)

Ballard Designs: From May 24 through May 31, take 20% off sitewide, excluding clearance. The deal is valid on everything from tabletop goods to furniture, home decor, and entertaining essentials.

BenchMade Modern: Take 20% off everything BenchMade Modern sells, including custom sofas, accent chairs, lights, tables, and more. The deal is the biggest sale of the year and is even valid on ready-to-ship affordable favorites. Shop May 25 through May 31 to take advantage.

Big Blanket Co.: Get cozy with 20% off sitewide from May 20 through May 31. The deal is valid on every giant, ridiculously cuddle-worthy blanket the brand makes.

Brooklinen: Save up to 15% off Brooklinen’s entire website through the first week of June. Yep, that includes sheets, bath towels, pillows, and comforters. Check the brand’s Last Call section for even deeper discounts and clearance finds, with prices up to 50% off retail. Sweet dreams!

Brooklyn Bedding: Affordable luxury mattress and bedding brand Brooklyn Bedding is offering 30% off in-store and online from May 27 through May 30. Use code MEMORIAL30 at checkout.

Chairish: From May 26 through June 1, shop sitewide discounts of up to 50% off on over 270,000 items. This includes outdoor furniture, seating, tables, storage and organization, rugs, lighting and art.

Circa Lighting: Take 20% off sitewide from May 17 to May 31.

Havenly: From May 26 through 30, this easy-to-use interior design service is offering 45% off full design packages when you enter code MDW22. This is a rare opportunity to have your own expert design team finish any room on your list for under $100.

HomeGoods: This retailer is already known for rock-bottom prices on popular housewares, but it’ll secretly be pouring hundreds of new items into its sale and clearance section in the second half of May. Expect up to 80% off home decor finds, towels, linens and all sorts of other goodies to spruce up your casa.

Macy’s: Get 20 to 60% off in all categories, including home and bedding, at Macy’s.

Nordstrom: Save up to 50% on luxe home decor, small appliances and kitchen items through June 6 during Nordstrom’s half-yearly sale. Big brand names include All-Clad and Dyson.

Overstock: Check out the Memorial Day Blowout sale at Overstock, where thousands of items for the home and yard are marked down up to 50% off. And shipping? It’s free.

RVMattress.com: This retailer of RV-specific mattresses come from the same minds behind Brooklyn Bedding. It’s offering 30% off in-store and online from May 27 through May 30 with the code MEMORIAL30 at checkout.

Saatva: Shop Saatva’s buy-more-save-more Memorial Day discount now until June 2. Take $200 off a mattress up to $2,250 in value, $250 off a $2,500 mattress, $300 off a $3,000 mattress, $350 off a $3,500 mattress, $400 off a $4,000 mattress, or $450 off a mattress worth over $4,000.

Sijo: Take 20% off sitewide May 23 through May 30 when you use code MEMORIAL20 at checkout. It’s the best sale of 2022, good for some of the softest and most luxurious bedding we’ve ever felt. The only exclusions are final-sale products and already-discounted bundles.

Target: Turn your patio into an outdoor living room and save 40% on select outdoor furniture at Target through Memorial Day. Small kitchen appliances, home decor and garden essentials will be up to 40% off.

Walmart: Score big deals on home and kitchen essentials during Memorial Day, and Walmart+ members can shop an exclusive 40% off sale during W+ Weekend from June 2 to June 5.

Wayfair: Find best-selling gel and memory foam beds from $99, bed frames and bases starting at $149, and a seemingly endless array of cooling pillows, bedding and more at up to 50% off their usual prices.

Home-entertaining and kitchen favorites

Bed Bath & Beyond: Score multiple deals this weekend, including up to $150 off select vacuums and 50% off select window curtains. Small kitchen appliances, linens and kitchen gadgets will also be marked down dramatically, and you can expect doorbuster deals under $40.

Calphalon: Now through Memorial Day take up to 40% off bestselling Calphalon products. The sale includes this ceramic cookware set at $20 off and this duo of top-rated baking sheets for a tidy 21% off usual prices.

E-cloth: Take 40% off the brand’s bestselling reusable cleaning products. We recommend beginning with the Starter Pack of all-purpose cloths and a glass and polishing cloth.

Health-Ade: From May 27 through 30 kombucha lovers can score 30% off sitewide. The brand’s bestselling kombucha flavors, new varieties and more are all included.

Hedley & Bennett: Take 20% off sitewide and 30% off select aprons from May 26 through 30. No codes are necessary, and these chef-approved aprons make excellent hostess gifts!

HelloFresh: Get up to 16 free meals plus free shipping with code HFMDW2022 at checkout now through May 31.

Kohl’s: It’s no surprise Kohl’s has huge markdowns on everything from Keurig machines to margarita blenders. Don’t forget to use your Kohl’s cash!

Macy’s: Get 20 to 60% off in all categories, including kitchen, at Macy’s, plus up to an additional 20% savings with bonus coupons.

Michaels: Take up to 60% off crafting and party supplies at Michaels from May 27 through June 4. Summer floral collections will be 60% off, and red, white, and blue decor finds will be up to 50% off usual prices. Items like yarn will even be offered as mind-blowing BOGO deals, and jar candles will be marked down to four for $9.99.

Nutribullet: From May 27 to May 31, take 15% off the Nutribullet Pro with code NBUSA.

Overstock: Take up to 70% off all tabletop entertaining pieces, chairs, dining sets, and even outdoor decor. Your backyard will be the best BBQ spot in the neighborhood!

Solo Stove: From May 20 through May 30, save up to 45% on fire pits and fire pit bundles, up to 35% on fire pit accessories, up to 30% on camp stoves, and up to 25% on the Pi pizza oven.

Sur La Table: Save up to 50% on gourmet kitchen tools and appliances through Memorial Day. We’ve got our eyes on Zwilling knife sets and Staub pans.

Thermacell: Take $100 off LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System starter kits when you enter MEMDAYLIV at checkout and 20% off portable repellers and refills with code MEMDAY20. The codes are valid from May 13 through 24.

Urban Outfitters: Check out Urban Outfitter’s sale for cute kitchen items. Hello, floral mini waffle maker and tea infuser mug.

Williams Sonoma: Loads of deep discounts here, including up to 40% off Le Creuset and Staub.

The post 47 Memorial Day Kitchen and Home Deals You Don’t Want to Miss appeared first on Taste Recipes.

I thought about filling the space with a bar cart. But then I saw this Frigidaire retro-inspired mini-fridge and I changed my mind about the bar cart. Now that I’ve had a mini-fridge for a few months, I’m never going back to storing food and beverages together again. My regular refrigerator has never been so clean, organized and spacious—and it’s all thanks to the mini-fridge.

What Is a Mini-Fridge?

A mini-fridge (sometimes called an under-the-counter refrigerator) is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a small version of the typical-sized refrigerator found in every American kitchen. The differences are the size, a smaller electricity cost and a freezer compartment—some mini-fridges don’t have freezer space (mine doesn’t). In my opinion, a mini-fridge is a chic way to store chilled beverages at the correct temperature, and away from the food you eat.

You might think mini-fridges are just for dorm rooms and overpriced fancy snacks in hotel rooms. Wrong! Mini-fridges have been popping up in interior design magazines and celebrity homes. Khloe Kardashian famously has two mini-fridges in her bedroom. One mini-fridge holds wine and rosé and the other houses almost every soda brand imaginable. (Goals.)

Mini-fridges come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colors. The previous owners of my home had a glass-front mini-fridge they used to store and display wine. Larger stainless steel mini-fridges are popular for both beverages and operating as a chilled food overflow storage for parties and holidays. Some really small mini-fridges are meant to keep skincare products or medicine cold and organized. You can also find mini-fridges with small freezers if you want to keep extra ice on hand.

Of course, a mini-fridge doesn’t have to live in the kitchen. If you have an in-home bar, movie room or, heck, even a garage where everyone loves to gather—a mini-fridge is a no-brainer. No more running to the kitchen to keep everyone hydrated and happy.

Why I Love Using a Mini-Fridge

Initially, I bought the Frigidaire retro-inspired mini-fridge because of the cute aesthetic and space in my kitchen. But even if I move to a tiny studio apartment, I’m taking my mini-fridge with me. The main reason I love using a mini-fridge is how much space it has cleared up in my regular refrigerator.

Soda cans, sparkling water, wine and beer bottles take up a lot of premium refrigerator real estate. Now that I keep those beverages in the mini-fridge, I have space in my regular fridge to keep everything way more organized. There’s space for my huge salad spinner with freshly washed arugula, a lazy Susan filled with condiments and mason jars of cut veggies. I even added refrigerator bins to store hummus and salsa where I used to stack cans of sparkling water.

I love entertaining with the mini-fridge. Sending a guest to the small fridge for a beer is way less intimate than directing people into my food refrigerator. I keep the mini-fridge at a colder setting than my regular fridge. Temperature adjustment is convenient for getting rosé extra cold without impacting the cheese and leftovers in my regular fridge.

Another perk? It feels cleaner to keep bottles and cans stored separately from freshly washed berries.

Where to Buy a Mini-Fridge

Ready to join the mini-fridge club? Khloe Kardashian and I are here to welcome you! Mini-fridges of all shapes and sizes are available at big box stores like Walmart, Target, Sam’s Club and Costco. But I think ordering a mini-fridge from Amazon is easiest. (Who wants to put a mini-fridge in a shopping cart?) Just be sure to measure your space first, so you know the mini-fridge will fit. You’ll also need an accessible electrical outlet!

I have the Frigidaire Retro Mini-Refrigerator, because I love the matte black color and retro lines and handle. The interior has ample space for multiple sizes of bottles and cans and I like the adjustable thermostat.

The Homelabs mini-fridge is state-of-the art with a digital thermostat and space for 120 cans.

For a smaller mini-fridge, the Cooluli is ideal for stashing cold water next to the bed or on the bathroom vanity loaded with skincare products.

Shop Now

The post I Tried a Mini-Fridge and I’m Never Storing Beverages with Food Again appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What Is an Electric Kettle?

An electric kettle is exactly what it sounds like. It’s basically a teapot that you plug into the wall. A heating component on the bottom of the kettle uses electricity to quickly boil water. You might have already encountered an electric kettle in a luxury hotel room, or seen them in your European or Asian friend’s kitchen (electric kettles are a necessity in most of the world).

Thankfully, my electric kettle is silent. I don’t appreciate the shriek of a teapot warning me that scalding water is about to spill all over the place. I don’t need that kind of adrenaline rush before 7 a.m. My electric kettle automatically and quietly flips the on switch back up when it’s done boiling. Other electric kettles play a little jingle, change color or simply ding to alert you that the water is hot. All of those options are better than the shriek.

There are some important elements to keep in mind when shopping for an electric kettle. Size, shape and color are personal preferences. But for safety, you want to make sure your electric kettle has an automatic off switch. Other features to keep in mind are heat-resistant and anti-slip handles. Some kettles have boil-dry features that turn off if they detect there’s no water inside. Temperature displays and pour windows are nice features to have if you want to immediately see how hot the water is, and how much water is in the kettle.

Why I Love Using an Electric Kettle

After I get up, I fill the electric kettle with tap water and take my dog out. By the time we’re back five minutes later, the water is boiled and safely waiting on the kitchen counter. If I don’t get to making coffee right away, the water stays hot for another 20 minutes. I don’t have to babysit the kettle, worry that I left the stove on or rush to use the water before it cools.

I knew I would love using an electric kettle for morning coffee and nightly cups of chamomile, but I didn’t realize it had so many other helpful kitchen uses. Cooking pasta, blanching veggies and diluting concentrated soup stock are kitchen chores made faster and more efficient with an electric kettle.

Any time I need boiling water, I reach for the electric kettle. I used to wait 15 minutes to start boiling fettuccine—now I can get to making pasta al dente in about five minutes. Electric kettles are also the most energy efficient way (unless you have an induction stove) to heat water. It takes less energy and is much safer than boiling water in the microwave.

Another electric kettle pro? It isn’t confined to the kitchen. I can plug my electric kettle in near my work desk, next to the bed…anywhere where there’s an outlet. I love that it’s portable. And I really love not having to worry about turning the stove off.

Where to Buy an Electric Kettle

Electric kettles are available at big box stores and on Amazon at a variety of price points. I spent a bit more for a Smeg electric kettle because I really liked the Italian aesthetic and matte black color. Since the electric kettle usually lives on my kitchen counter, I wanted the appliance to look nice. I get lots of compliments.

If you’re looking for something more affordable with similar features, KitchenAid has a really cute electric kettle line that comes in fun colors like pistachio and hot sauce. The Willsence electric kettle lets you control the temperature, which is ideal for precision coffee making. Hamilton Beach electric kettle is really affordable and the kettle is cord free for easy serving. So long, stovetop.

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The post I Tried an Electric Tea Kettle and I Can’t Imagine Life Without It Now appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What is Beautiful Kitchenware by Drew Barrymore?

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Beautiful by Drew Barrymore

Pick up a plethora of kitchen mixers, pans and pretty appliances in soft, stunning hues.

Shop on Walmart

Beautiful Kitchenware is a line of high-performance small kitchen appliances specifically designed to look good on the kitchen counter.

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A post shared by Drew Barrymore (@drewbarrymore)

In an Instagram post shared to her 13.9 million followers, Drew posed with the Beautiful Kitchenware air fryer. She captioned the photo, “@cookwithbeautiful IS FINALLY HERE!!! I’ve always dreamed of designing kitchen appliances that are functional and practical, but also look BEAUTIFUL on your countertop. Today, I am proud to say that this dream has become a reality!!”

Beauty aside, the small appliances have an array of helpful features, like touchscreens and powerful 1500 watts. Other thoughtful details include removing unsightly buttons and knobs from the electric kettle, and preset buttons for fast and precision cooking and blending on the toaster oven and blender. We’ve tested several products from the line, including the Beautiful toaster, which outranked all other options in our toaster tests.

The newest edition of the Beautiful Kitchenware line includes an air fryer, electric kettle, four-slice toaster, toaster oven and 14-cup coffee maker—all of which are touchscreen. What else do you need? (Other than Drew herself dropping by for a cup of coffee.) Recently, the brand also expanded to include Drew Barrymore branded furniture, the social media famous Hero Pan and even a frozen drink maker. We’ve got a curated list of the best Beautiful by Drew Barrymore kitchen essentials for you, too.

Where can you buy Beautiful Kitchenware by Drew Barrymore?

More good news? Beautiful Kitchenware is available at Walmart and won’t break the bank. Prices start as low as $22 for the electric can opener and go up to $139 for the toaster oven. Our advice? Get the cute and classy Beautiful Kitchenware line while you can—many items, like the heart-shaped Dutch oven—are expected to sell out!

VIA MERCHANT

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore

Pick up a plethora of kitchen mixers, pans and pretty appliances in soft, stunning hues.

Shop on Walmart

The post Drew Barrymore Just Launched the Cutest Sage Green Appliances at Walmart appeared first on Taste Recipes.

OxiClean White Revive Laundry Whitener

If you want one laundry product that will remove stains AND whiten clothes, get a tub of OxiClean White Revive laundry whitener. This fan favorite product has over 7,000 perfect five-star reviews on Amazon. You can either add a scoop to water for a pre-soak to remove stains, or sprinkle some in with your regular laundry detergent to the washing machine cycle. Another perk? Users love the scent of this stain-blasting stuff.

Enthusiastic user review: “No one prepares you for the aftermath of a disaster that your dress is when your wedding is over. My wedding was outside and my train was quite long. Even after bustling it, it stood no chance against the ground and dirt. Well, that dirt stood no chance against OxiClean! I am so pleased with the results. Letting it hang to dry, but it looks practically new again!”—Eric Dixon

14.977% OFF$13.93 at Amazon

The Laundress New York Stain Solution

The Laundress is known for its line of gentle laundry detergents with sophisticated scents. But The Laundress New York stain solution is an unscented stain remover strong enough to remove everything from blood to wine to grass to yellow armpit stains from any washable fabrics. It’s a powerful solution to all of your laundry stain problems. (Add these secret laundry ingredients to your next load.)

Enthusiastic user review: “I have been using spray and wash for years on the kids’ clothes with disappointing results. This stuff isn’t as easy to use—but it really works. I used it on deodorant stains on delicate clothes and also to remove snow cone stains on a white cotton t-shirt. Very happy!”—Amazon customer

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Dreft Stain Remover and Dreft Stain Pen

If you only think of Dreft as a delicate laundry detergent for babying baby clothes, it’s time to rethink the brand. This Dreft Stain Remover and Dreft Stain Pen bundle is a powerhouse stain fighter. Don’t let the plant based ingredients fool you, it works hard and delivers results on baby and adult-size stains. (By the way, have you heard of this surprising laundry trick?)

Enthusiastic user review: “Took green sharpie permanent marker out really well! It’s not perfect, but way more than I had hoped! Sprayed, rubbed, let sit, and washed. Did this twice and the results are in the pictures.”—Rob

$19.99 at Amazon

OxiClean Baby Stain Remover

OxiClean doesn’t play around. Their baby stain remover can lift even previously set stains! Gasp! Simply soak stained clothes in the solution between one and six hours, then wash as normal. You can use OxiClean to treat spots on any washable fabrics, like clothes, stroller and car seat inserts and bedding. Soon you’ll be asking, “What stains?”

Enthusiastic user review: “Incredible results! I used this on four garments that my newborn had pooped on. The stains had set and been run through the wash twice already. Well, after soaking them for four hours in this product they came out, using what I have to imagine is some magical formula. This is a must-have for any parent!”—Metro West Mama

$17.99 at Amazon

White Brite Laundry Whitener

Got rust stains? Dirt stains? Dingy whites? Hit ’em with a dose of White Brite laundry whitener before laundering and watch all sorts of yellowing and rusty stains disappear. It can even reverse color bleeding. Whiter, brighter laundry ahead!

Enthusiastic user review: “They are this white without even hitting the washing machine yet!”—Mel C. 

$23.50 at Amazon

Emergency Stain Rescue

Laundry emergencies don’t only happen on clothes. Emergency stain rescue is fantastic to have on hand for removing stains in the car, on the couch or from the carpet. The on-the-spot application is as easy as spray, blot and rinse. P.S. It comes in a travel-size version for wine spills and coffee drip emergencies on the road. (Here’s how to boost your laundry detergent with natural enhancements.)

Enthusiastic user review: “This actually works! I have old ramen stains on my bed skirt from last year (yes I’m lazy and apparently a very messy eater) and this lifted them right out! I just applied it on the stain, sprayed cold water on top and blotted with paper towel.”—Geneva Fong

$7.49 at Amazon

Defunkify Stain Remover Spray

This stain remover is made with ingredients approved by the EPA Safer Choice Program. Defunkify stain remover spray is scentless and strong enough to remove makeup from white face masks and chocolate ice cream from white clothes. It also takes care of sweat stains and odors. No more stink, no more stains! Here are a few more tips to get chocolate out of clothes.

Enthusiastic user review: “LOVE this! It got raspberry stains out of my toddler’s white shirt and I feel even better knowing it doesn’t have harsh toxins that would come into contact with my son’s skin. Found my new family favorite! #Momwin”—K Mom

$24.99 at Amazon

*User reviews edited for clarity and grammar.

The post Before and After Dirty Laundry Reveals You Have to See to Believe appeared first on Taste Recipes.

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This oyster mushroom log kit is handmade in Georgia and pretty enough to compete with houseplants. Each log is made from recently felled aspen and poplar trees, and planted with organic oyster mushroom spores. All you have to do is soak the mushroom log and keep it in a damp, cool and dark place. Within about seven months, you’ll be in fresh mushroom heaven. Then, re-soak and harvest every six weeks for up to three years. For more indoor gardening fun, read our AeroGarden review.

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Golden Oyster Mushroom Grow Kit

$24.99 at Amazon

If you’re more interested in quickly eating freshly grown mushrooms than you are in watching them grow over time, this golden oyster mushroom growing kit is the pick for you. Follow four simple steps to grow oyster mushrooms: Cut the bag, tent the plant, mist it with water, then let the mushrooms grow. Plus, mushroom lovers have reported oyster mushroom growth within the first week. By the way, these are the most common types of mushrooms.

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Shiitake Mushroom Growing Kit

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For the gardener that has it all, give them a unique project. The shittake mushroom log is already seeded with spores. Just soak the log in water and wait for the mushrooms to appear. Then, enjoy your mushroom harvest for up to three years. Check out more gift ideas for gardeners.

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Organic Mushroom Growing Kit

$16.99 at Amazon

This organic mushroom kit is also non-GMO—and you can grow it straight from its cardboard package. To grow pearl oyster mushrooms, simply open the box and spray with water. You should expect to have edible mushrooms in about 10 days. Each crop produces 3-4 servings of mushrooms, and each box can grow up to two crops. Moreover, we think this is a perfect gardening gift for kids.

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Backyard Morel Mushroom Growing Kit

$38.95 at Amazon

The morel mushroom growing kit is meant for outdoor use. It’s designed to be grown directly in soil, and you need about 4-5 square feet of ground. Morels are a perennial crop and will continue to produce fungi year after year if the appropriate conditions are provided. You can get started anytime the soil is workable, which depends on your climate. The kit includes a bag of inoculated California mushroom spawn and a set of growing instructions. Check out the best places to buy seeds online.

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Lion's Mane Mushroom Growing Kit

$34.99 at Amazon

Looking to branch out? Lion’s mane mushrooms might look unusual, but they’re completely edible and have a mild seafood flavor. They absorb flavors (and liquid) like a sponge, which makes them versatile in cooking. Also, you gotta see one! They look like a mane of lush white hair growing out of a log. These mushroom growing kits can take a few weeks to mature, but some gardeners have reported faster results. Take a look at our tips for preparing mushrooms.

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Pink Oyster Mushroom Growing Kit

$26.99 at Amazon

Pink oyster mushrooms would look gorgeous garnishing a salad—or growing in the living room. (Like the look? See more mushroom decor.) Also, this rose-colored mushroom growing kit is ideal for beginners because it comes with a grow guarantee. If your green thumb fumbles, the company offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you’ll receive a full refund.

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Blue Oyster Mushroom Growing Kit

$29.99 at Amazon

Blue oyster mushrooms are one of the most popular mushroom varieties to grow from a kit. This blue oyster mushroom growing kit lets you grow mushrooms right on the kitchen counter. These kits are hand-crafted in Maine by a team of dedicated mycologists. Your harvest should yield large flushes of velvety mushrooms within a few days. Psst! Do you know why truffles are so expensive?

The post The 8 Best Mushroom Growing Kits and Logs appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Stardrops The Pink Stuff Miracle All Purpose Cleaning Paste

Anyone with a TikTok account has probably seen The Pink Stuff go viral. And it’s not JUST the happy pink color that’s so great. The British cleaning paste is an effective cream cleaner often used by professional house cleaners on everything from scorched pots and pans to ceramic tiles to the messiest ovens. Did we mention it has over 30,000 positive Amazon user reviews and counting! (We’ve reviewed it too!)

Enthusiastic user review: “Five years of oven use and neglect and 20 mins of elbow grease. This stuff is amazing!”—Erbium

$5.97 at Amazon

Goo Gone Oven and Grill Cleaner

If you only think of Goo Gone as a residue or sticker remover, think again.  Goo Gone oven and grill cleaner is a fume-free foam that makes quick work of grease and grime without a long soaking time. Buh-bye baked on carbon deposits. Here’s how to clean the oven without scrubbing.

Enthusiastic user review: “This stuff is AMAZING. We did have to put elbow grease in and also use a pot scrubber but boy oh boy. This stuff. Immediately starts loosening up the gunk as soon as you spray. Definitely worth the money.”—CandyCurlz

15.839% OFF$14.34 at Amazon

Easy-Off Professional Fume Free Max Oven Cleaner

Our Test Kitchen named Easy-Off Professional Fume Free Max oven cleaner as the best oven cleaner. It gets your oven and stove clean fast. It’s up to serious clean up jobs, and a lot of users use it for spot cleaning after a particularly greasy meal. We’re looking at you fried chicken.

Enthusiastic user review: “Do you have a self-cleaning oven but you or your significant other cooks meals that make messes beyond the oven’s self cleaning abilities? Well then, this is for you. And if you’re REALLY messy, spray it on thick, close the door and come back the next day and scrub with a copper scouring pad. Watch it turn all that baked on grease into a piece of cake. My wife is Southern. She cooks southern. I like my oven to look new. Those two facts contradict each other. Easy-Off makes my life easier.”—Ty

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Mr. Clean Clean Freak Deep Cleaning Mist Multi-Surface Spray

Looking for a multi-surface spray strong enough to clean the oven, and gentle enough to remove fingerprints on stainless steel appliances? Mr. Clean has the product for you. The secret to Clean Freak Deep Cleaning Mist multi-surface spray is the power nozzle for three times the cleaning power. Spritz, spritz—clean!

Enthusiastic user review: “The ultimate producer to clean anything. Cleaning my stainless steel appliances with a micro fiber towel = EPIC. I’ve been fighting to get my stainless steel appliances clean and shiny—wasted money on so many products. I was done in 20 minutes cleaning fridge, dishwasher, stove and microwave. Insane. I’m hooked.”—Violet Davis

30.255% OFF$28.69 at Amazon

Diversey Break-Up Professional Oven & Grill Cleaner

It’s time to break up with the old way you cleaned the oven and get together with Diversey Break-Up Professional oven and grill cleaner. This aerosol product gets to work on cold or warm ovens and is strong enough to use on grills, broilers and ventilating hoods. Um, when’s the last time you cleaned your ventilating hood?

Enthusiastic user review: “This product wowed me! The before and after photos were after only one 30-minute application. I didn’t even have to scrub! The grease came off so easily with a damp sponge.”—Gunny’s Mom

69.9718% OFF$57.19 at Amazon

Weiman Oven & Grill Cleaner

Food tastes better in a clean oven. Weiman Oven and Grill cleaner is a two-for-one cleaner and degreaser. It actually protects oven and grill grates from rusting, deteriorating and harboring bacteria. That’s serious cleaning and better tasting food.

GP66 Green Miracle Cleaner

If an oven cleaner is going to put “miracle” in the name, it better deliver results. And GP66 Green Miracle cleaner actually is a cleaning miracle in a bottle. The American-made formula cleans the toughest dirt, grease and grime from just about anything—including the oven.

Enthusiastic user review: “I used this to clean my five-year-old oven. It cleaned almost like new. I’m very happy with the result.”—Amazon Customer

$22.99 at Amazon

The post Before and After Oven Cleaning Photos You Have to See to Believe appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Keurig Milk Frother

Keurig machines make a solid cup of coffee, but for the days you feel like being an at-home barista, check out the Keurig milk frother. It froths hot and cold milk, including nondairy options such as almond and soy, with the touch of a button. And it stores easily when not in use, as does this hand-held frother.

Available for $61.99

Reusable Coffee Pod

If you’re tired of tossing used coffee pods into the trash, consider a reusable K-Cup. It’s a refillable coffee pod (and yes, you can brim it with your favorite coffee grounds) that is compatible with many Keurig coffee machines. The stainless-steel mesh screen filters out any sediment for a smooth cup of coffee, and the pod is dishwasher-safe. Genius!

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Wooden Stand

Give your Keurig a finished, permanent look (and conceal your K-Cups) with this chic stand and pod holder. The nine woods from which you can choose ensure the one- or two-drawer accessory accents your existing decor. See more coffee bar inspiration, including coffee containers, filter holders and the best grinders.

Available for $85

Quilted Keurig Cover

Keurigs are nicely designed, but maybe you don’t like the cluttered look of appliances on the countertop. Solve that problem with a cute quilted Keurig cover. The shop sells 12 sizes to cover any Keurig model. You can also choose from 13 colors to match your kitchen decor. Psst! When’s the last time you actually cleaned your Keurig?

18.9915% OFFAvailable for $16.14

Keurig Pod Carousel

If you’ve got a Keurig, you’ve got coffee pods. This industrial-looking carousel is a functional, space-saving way to neatly store your Keurig coffee pod collection. This pod organizer holds 36 pods and spins 360° for easy access. Say goodbye to digging through boxes of coffee pods and hello to an organized coffee-making routine

Available for $31.99

Keurig Decal

Perk up your countertop with some peonies! And it needn’t be the fresh kind. This floral decal fits the top and sides of your Keurig perfectly; it’ll cheer you up every time you pour a cup. Plus, there are multiple sizes available, depending on your model. Psst! This glass milk carton for creamer is an equally cute addition to your coffee routine.

Available for $14.99

Cleaning Pods

More than 47,000 satisfied Amazon users have turned to these convenient cleaning pods to tidy their Keurig. Sold in 6-, 12- and 18-packs, the cups eliminate build-up on the machine for a fresher-tasting final product. Simply “brew” the cleaning pod, then run a cycle with plain water. Could it be simpler?

$9.95 at Amazon

Brew Over Ice Tumbler

This Keurig tumbler is made specially for the iced coffee fanatics. Simply fill the cup with ice, then brew your favorite 6- or 8-ounce K-Cup into it. The double-walled tumbler, complete with a lid and straw, cools your beverage quickly for those warm summer days—or any time your craving something refreshing. Display all your favorite cups with these mug organizers.

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Grounds Extractor

Eco-friendly Keurig users will delight in this nifty contraption. Many places won’t recycle K-Cups with the grounds inside, so this simple tool extracts them directly into a container. This way, the cups can be recycled and the grounds can be used for fertilizing the garden or eliminating odors around the house. We call that a win-win!

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Miroco Milk Frother and Warmer

Take delight in the perfect mug of hot chocolate, cappuccino or eggnog with this sleek double insulated milk frother. With the push of a button, you can froth milk to a smooth and foamy texture, producing a magically airy cup of cocoa. Need some chocolatey inspiration? Here are our most decadent hot chocolate recipes.

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Casara Milk Frother

Effortlessly whip up your hot drink of choice—whether you prefer a foamy cappuccino, milky latte or creamy hot chocolate—with this drink-making machine by Casara. It can even melt chocolate chips and chunks to the perfect consistency! Don’t forget to add marshmallows. Step up your at-home hot cocoa game even further with these 11 hot cocoa bombs.

$59.99 at Amazon

Nostalgia Retro Hot Chocolate Maker

Mix up a piping hot cup of cocoa with this adorable blended beverage builder by Nostalgia. With its stylish, retro design and bold red color, it will look beautiful on any kitchen countertop, and the no-drip faucet keeps your counters clean. If you still have hot cocoa packets hanging around the kitchen, use them up with our six clever recipes for using hot cocoa mix.

44.9911% OFF$39.99 at Amazon

Capresso Milk Frother and Hot Chocolate Maker

It’s a cinch to create your own custom drink recipes, including hot cocoa, matcha lattes, hot apple cider and more with the mighty Capresso hot chocolate maker. Thanks to the 16 ounce capacity tank, it’s perfect for making an extra large hot cocoa any day of the year—whenever you and your loved ones need a pick-me-up! How about making hot cocoa the French way with this French hot chocolate recipe?

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Mr. Coffee Hot Chocolate Maker

The family-friendly Mr. Coffee hot chocolate maker helps you make four mugs of hot cocoa in no time at all. The machine has a mixing disk that whip together any combination of milk or water, chocolate syrup or powder or real pieces of your favorite chocolate. Say goodbye to clumpy hot cocoa mixes and hello to the perfect cup of hot cocoa. Check out these creative mix-ins to make your cocoa even more special.

200.007% OFF$186.22 at Amazon

KitchenAid Espresso Maker

Splurge alert! The KitchenAid espresso maker is a cocoa lovers’ dream come true. It has two independent boilers, allowing for simultaneous brewing and milk frothing so your drink is ready in seconds. Expect a hot chocolate (or latte) that will look and taste professionally made. For a high/low cup of hot chocolate, here’s how to make Aldi’s hot cocoa bombs at home.

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Nespresso Pixie

You’ll savor every last drop of your cocoa when you make it with the beautiful Nespresso Pixie espresso machine. Nespresso hot chocolate pods yield minimal to no cleanup, so you can use this beaut over and over again. Make an adult cup of cocoa with this honey-bourbon hot chocolate recipe.

Pro Tip: Bring your used capsules to any Sur La Table store, and they’ll recycle them for you.

229.0024% OFF$174.99 at Amazon

Espressione Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker

Time to be your own barista! If you’re on the hunt for a lovely, lifelong appliance to complete your at-home cafe, look no further than the stainless steel Dualit Espressione espresso machine. It’s a combo espresso machine and coffee maker in one sleek machine. Make everything from foamy lattes to aromatic tea to velvety hot cocoa in minutes. And don’t miss treats for cocoa lovers!

$279.99 at Amazon

The post The 8 Best Gourmet Hot Chocolate Makers appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Recently, I did pack up my city life to go back to the Midwest. And now, I can see that a Walmart+ membership hits the shopping sweet spot. It saves time on going to the store, money on delivery and shipping, and Walmart carries almost everything I need to keep my home (and car) running while keeping overall prices low.

Here’s what you need to know about a Walmart+, a new kind of membership.

What is Walmart+?

Basically, Walmart+ launched to compete with Amazon Prime—and oh boy, does it ever. Walmart+ is a membership program that offers four main benefits that save time and money whether you shop online, in stores or do a combination of both. Here’s what you get with your Walmart+ membership.

Free delivery from your Walmart store

Getting groceries, toiletries, pet food and heck—even leggings delivered from the nearest Walmart to my home is a lifesaver and can save hours every week. Whether the weather is bad (Midwest winters are serious), I have an extended work day or I’d just rather spend the evening with my family and dog than go to the store, Walmart+ free delivery buys me time.

Though there are some restrictions, and a $35 minimum spend (which, let’s get real—when do I not have at least $35 worth of stuff I need from Walmart?) this is a huge saver in time. It’s especially essential around big events like the holidays, birthdays and dinner parties when I’m overbooked, over-scheduled and have a seemingly endless shopping list. With Walmart+, all I have to do is order online, choose an available delivery window and get back to enjoying my free time. Instead of scanning the aisles for dog food, I can take my dog on a leisurely walk.

Another fun way to use free Walmart+ delivery? When I’m checking out new recipes on Taste Recipes and decide I absolutely must make cocoa bombs or try out an air fryer, I can get everything I need—from the ingredients to small appliances—delivered fast. When cooking inspiration hits, I want to get to my kitchen—not the grocery store. A Walmart+ shopping membership makes quick turnaround cooking possible. Yes, please!

Mobile scan & go for in-store shopping

Before Walmart+, I wouldn’t consider stopping by Walmart to just pick up a few things. I didn’t have time to wait in line for a few last-minute grocery items I needed for meal prep. No way was I going to go through a checkout line just to pay for pasta and a can of tomatoes. (And okay, fine, a bottle of wine and maybe some brownies.) Mobile scanning with Walmart+ changed all that. Now I can swing in, grab what I need and check out inside of Walmart using my phone! No checkout line required. Let’s make that two bottles of chardonnay!

Walmart+ free shipping

Wow, this one’s huge. Walmart+ offers free two-day shipping and next day shipping on items shipped by Walmart. Here’s where it gets really good: there’s no minimum spend required. This is not a drill! It does exclude oversized and freight items, but that’s okay. I could use this time and money-saving benefit for last-minute gift shopping, stocking my kitchen pantry with items I forgot I needed (I’m looking at you bottle of soy sauce I swear I just bought) or making sure there’s always enough toothpaste, shampoo and toilet paper to get my family through another week.

I recently got into making lefse and cross country skiing (I told you I was back in the Midwest). With free two-day shipping I can order supplies and gear for my new hobbies and have them shipped to my home in no time. That means more time in nature and the kitchen, and less time inside a store.

Member prices on fuel

I have to fill up my gas tank, so why not save five cents and get gas at Walmart, Murphy Stations or Sam’s Club fuel centers? Every little bit adds up, and this benefit is something you won’t get with competing shopping memberships. It’s easy enough to top off my tank on my way to doing something way more fun—like going to the dog park. Gas up, and go!

How does joining Walmart+ benefit me?

For me, the Walmart+ shopping membership program buys time and gives me flexibility on how I shop. There are occasions when I most definitely want to wander around Walmart for an hour, filling up my cart with everyday values on makeup, snacks and home decor. It’s called retail therapy for a reason! But most of the time, I’d much prefer to have all of my grocery and household goods either shipped to me for free, or delivered from my nearest Walmart store for free. Shopping this way saves me oodles of time, and helps me stay organized. It also lets me order fun stuff, like an InstantPot or the ingredients to bake homemade bread, on a whim. To me, that’s a priceless feeling.

How much does Walmart+ cost?

The Walmart+ shopping membership program costs $12.95 a month, or $98 a year. If you break it down, that’s just $2 a week on the annual plan at 52 weeks. If you go monthly, the membership pays for itself with two deliveries (based on the $7.95 delivery fee you’d pay without a membership). Two dollars a week is less than I spend on dog treats. That reminds me, I need to order dog treats. *Adds to cart.* Shopping with Walmart+ makes the most shopping sense and saves the most dollars. Whether I stay in the rural Midwest or move back to an urban center, Walmart+ gives me more time in my day.

The post Walmart+ Is Here—Here’s How It’ll Give You More Time in Your Day appeared first on Taste Recipes.

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Frozen waffles get a healthy, breakfast-to-go makeover with the addition of antioxidant-packed blueberries and 13 grams of protein per serving in Kashi Go Wild Frozen Blueberry Protein Waffles. Pop ’em in an air fryer toaster oven for super fast prep. Skip the syrup and try one of these fun waffle and pancake toppings (though they’re not all healthy). Here are a few tips for making healthy protein waffles.

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Ore-Ida Just Crack an Egg All-American Scramble Kit

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Scrambled eggs are a classic breakfast option, but sometimes you don’t have the time to whip them up the right way (Chrissy Teigen’s scrambled eggs prove that low and slow is the best way to do it). But with Ore-Ida Just Crack an Egg All-American Scramble Kit, you can rely on the microwave to get it done in minutes. Plus, with no extra effort, you get potatoes, cheese and bacon, and the flexibility to add one egg, two eggs or egg whites, depending on your health goals.

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Oats Overnight

$34 at Amazon

Overnight oats are pretty easy (and super nutritious) but Oats Overnight made the process even more portable AND healthy! The special oatmeal mix is loaded with superfoods like flax, chia, maca root, real fruit and 20 grams of protein. Choose from yummy flavors like green apple cinnamon or birthday cake. The blender bottle features a wide straw—no spoon required!

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Chobani Flip Cookie Dough Greek Yogurt

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Greek yogurt is the perfect solution when you want something sweet that also packs protein (although there are lots of other benefits of Greek yogurt, too). While you could go for a plain yogurt like strawberry or peach, each Chobani Flip has mix-ins that make it a true morning treat. “Flip” in the cookie dough pieces, cookie rice crisps and milk chocolate chips, stir, and you’re out the door. While this breakfast has more sugar than other healthy breakfast-to-go options, just save the sugary coffee for another day and you’ll still be able to say you had a healthy breakfast. (Or, try one of these healthy Starbucks drinks that only taste indulgent).

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Flapjacked Mighty Muffins

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Muffins can count as a healthy breakfast-to-go! FlapJacked Mighty muffins give you 20 grams of protein, with under 20 net carbs and 10 grams of sugar or less—plus chocolate! To make the healthy muffins, add water, stir and pop in the microwave. No artificial ingredients here!

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Quaker Baked Squares

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If you’re craving the best breakfast-to-go items with all the goodies, like fiber, whole grain oats and fruit, these incredibly soft and chewy Quaker baked squares are the exact way you should be waking up in the morning. No cooking required. Looking to make your own healthy breakfast-to-go? Try one of these rich and healthy grab-and-go breakfast recipes.

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Wyman's Just Fruit & Greek Yogurt Bites

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Ever crave ice cream for breakfast? Because Wyman’s Just Fruit & Greek Yogurt Bites remind us of Dippin’ Dots. The playful combination of Greek yogurt pearls and small fruit pieces in every spoonful will have your kids convinced that they’re having dessert for breakfast—just without the added sugars and calories. Don’t forget about the additional boost of antioxidants and other health benefits of strawberries, too.

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KIND Breakfast Bar

34.0027% OFF$24.85 at Amazon

If you don’t need a full-fledged breakfast to fill up your belly in the morning, these Honey Oat KIND breakfast bars will do the trick. They’re made with super grains and are gluten-free. Plus, they’re just the right size for a quick breakfast fix on the way to school or the gym. Curb the cravings at home with these on-the-go breakfasts made in a muffin tin.

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Carnation Breakfast Essentials Drink Mix

$31.38 at Amazon

Just empty a packet of this breakfast powder drink mix into a large glass, stir in one cup of cold milk or a non-dairy milk alternative and enjoy a healthy breakfast-to-go smoothie that’s jam-packed with 21 vitamins and minerals. Plus, the calcium and 13 grams of protein will help you feel full. Have a little more time? Whip up your own smoothie in a portable blender.

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Belgian Boys Frozen Crepes and Mini Pancakes

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Crepes and mini pancakes aren’t the healthiest options on this list, but if you’re in the mood for a sweet breakfast-to-go, these are one of your healthiest bets. The frozen breakfast bundle includes a box of crepes and a box of bite-size pancakes (for easy portion control). Pop them in the air fryer and top them with fruit for a healthier spin. These grab-and-go freezer breakfast recipes get you out the door in a hurry!

Next, try out Belgian Boys latest creation: pancake cereal.

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NOKA Superfood Smoothie Pouches

$14.99 at Amazon

More of a fruit smoothie person? Go for a healthy on-the-go breakfast smoothie that’s packed with superfoods and protein in the convenience of a pouch. Noka Superfood Smoothie Pouches are filled with organic fruit and are easily portable without the mess. Prep a homemade breakfast ahead of time with these make-ahead breakfast recipes.

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EVOL Egg & Green Chile Burrito

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Prefer to start your day with a little spice? Look no further than EVOL’s Egg & Green Chile Burrito to start your day off on the right foot. We know you’ll look forward to this hearty breakfast, as well as your fill of over half of the vitamin C you need for the day. Find more foods with vitamin C (that aren’t oranges).

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belVita Baked Breakfast Biscuit

$42.50 at Amazon

Sure, biscuits and gravy hit the spot, but baked breakfast biscuits are the next best thing when you’re racing to get out the door. And as sugary as they might taste, there are no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Each biscuit should provide enough energy for up to four hours.

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Kodiak Cakes Instant Oatmeal Cup

36.1815% OFF$30.83 at Amazon

Instant oatmeal is short, sweet and to the point—and it’s one of the best healthy on-the-go breakfasts you can snag. These Kodiak Cakes Instant Oatmeal Cups are perfect. They’re loaded with protein, whole grains and peanut butter, for those who love the taste of homemade oatmeal in half the time. These quick and easy breakfast recipes are morning must-haves!

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Chike High Protein Iced Coffee

34.9513% OFF$30.49 at Amazon

Just can’t kick your coffee habit? You don’t need to: Chike High Protein Iced Coffee provides not only the same amount of caffeine as two shots of espresso, but 20 grams of protein all in a 120-calorie drink. Just pair it with a banana and you’re good to go! When you have a little more time, try these healthy coffee recipes at home.

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Magic Spoon Cereal

$43.99 at Amazon

If you prioritize healthy eating, cereal is probably one of the last options you think of for the first meal of the day. However, Magic Spoon cereal not only has 0 grams of added sugars, but 11 grams of protein and only 4 net carbs per serving. Thanks to this cereal, you don’t always need to eat eggs or meat to get your protein fix in the morning.

The post 16 of the Best Healthy, On-the-Go Breakfast Foods appeared first on Taste Recipes.