Archive for the ‘Holidays’ Category

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

Wednesday, November 20th, 2019

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

Bring the holidays to your mantle with these simple DIY Christmas trees! This holiday craft is so easy and inexpensive that you can make a few and display them together or give them as gorgeous hostess gifts. Make the DIY holiday yarn trees in Christmas colors or your favorites to add a festive touch to your Christmas decor!

 

What could be more fun than decorating for the holiday season?

For this month’s holiday decor project, I wanted to share with you a fun DIY project for creating festive yarn trees that you can create to decorate a ledge, table, or mantle in your home. 

You will only need a few affordable supplies from your craft shop to create this craft.

Don’t think of these as only a decoration for Christmas.

These are beautiful to display all holiday season long, especially in a nice warm neutral yarn!

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

Supplies List

2-    3-7/8 x 8-7/8  inch  Styrofoam floral cones

2- 3-7/8 x 11-7/8 inch  Styrofoam floral cones

4 glass candlestick holders (optional)

2 skeins of inexpensive yarn (in your favorite yarn color)

Small & Large Clover Pom-Pom Makers (unless making pom-poms by hand)

Hot glue gun

Glue Sticks

Straight Pins

Scissors

3.75 mm straight yarn needles

2-4.00 mm double-pointed needles

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

 

Instructions for Making Your Yarn Trees

1. For each of the smaller trees, you will need approximately 73-75 small pom poms. I am in love with my pom-pom maker for making these and have provided a picture tutorial above, if you would like to use these too.  Make sure to give your pom-poms a nice trim, to even up any uneven spots.

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

 

2. Once you have made all of your pom-poms, it is time to assemble them to your tree-form. Grab your hot glue gun and apply a dab of glue in the center of the pom-pom (where you have tied the string to gather everything.  Apply the pom-poms to the tree, starting at the bottom of the cone and working your way around the tree. Try not to line these up all evenly, but stagger them in each row to make it look more like a real tree!

 

3. Continue adding pom-poms until you get to the top of the tree, making sure all of the tree-form is completely covered.

 

4. Make a large pom-pom in a contrasting color and secure it with hot glue, in the center again, and add it to the top of the tree as your star.

 

5. Finish by giving your tree a trim, especially at the top, to trim all of the yarn down to make it look more like a tree.

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees

 

6. For an easy yarn-wrapped tree, begin by adding a dab of hot glue to the top of your taller tree-forms. Begin by applying your yarn in a swirled motion at the top. Add one more dab of glue at the top and start wrapping your tree-form all the way around it until you are about a half-inch from the bottom.

 

7. Add one more dab of glue and then finish adding the yarn until you reach the bottom of the form. Clip the yarn and secure the end with a little hot glue.

 

8. Decorate this tree-form any way that you would like. If you are not a knitter, there are many varieties of ways you can decorate these yarn trees. You can top with a pom-pom in an alternating color, create a multi-colored pom-pom for topping, braid yarn to create a garland, or create some garland out of a contrasting color.

 

9. If you are a knitter, knit a 3-stitch i-cord using two 4.0 mm double-pointed needles  for a total of 32.5 inches. Using straight pins, secure the i-cord to the top of the tree and then wrap around and around, securing occasionally with pins, until the tree is completely wrapped in garland.

 

10. Top your tree with a simple knitted bow, if knitting an adornment. Using your 3.75 mm straight needles, cast on ten stitches. Knit the first row, then purl the next row. Repeat this pattern until it measures 6.5 inches in length. Cast the stitches off and then seam them in the center. Using more yarn, simply wrap the center of the bow and then knot the yarn behind. Secure the bow at the top with hot glue.

 

11. Attach all of the trees to inexpensive dollar-store candlestick holders. If you desire, you can spray paint these in your favorite color or just leave them plain, as I have shown.

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

 

 

DIY Holiday Yarn Trees from MomAdvice.com.

 

I hope you love these little yarn trees as much as I do! It is definitely an inexpensive and fun way to dress up a corner of your home for the holidays!

 

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DIY yarn holiday trees MomAdvice.com

 

Don’t miss these other great Holiday ideas from MomAdvice:

 

How to Make a Yarn Pom Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

How to Make Pom Pom Wreath 

 

 

The Easiest Burlap Wreath You Will Ever Make from MomAdvice.com

Easy Burlap Wreath

 

 

how to make a pom-pom and ornament garland MomAdvice

Ornament & Pom Pom Garland

 

 

Christmas at Mom Advice-Traditions Decor and Food

Christmas at MomAdvice

 

 

 

20 Easy DIY Stocking Stuffers - MomAdvice.com

DIY Stocking Stuffers

 

 

 

54 Handmade Gifts from MomAdvice

Homemade Gift Ideas

 

 

DIY Holiday yarn trees MomAdvice.com

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Gingerbread Biscotti Step-By-Step Tutorial

Monday, November 18th, 2019

Gingerbread Biscotti Recipe Step By Step Header

Did you know how easy it is to make biscotti? This great recipe shows you how to make this gingerbread biscotti treat that is perfect for dunking in a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Get the step-by-step tutorial and printable recipe on the blog today!

One of my favorite gifts to give is homemade biscotti.

This gingerbread biscotti is the perfect gift to give for the holidays or to share in this year’s cookie exchange.

Biscotti seems like a really difficult treat to make, but it is just as easy as making a regular batch of cookies.

The biggest difference is that you bake these treats twice to get a cookie with crunch.

Gingerbread Biscotti with a Cup of Coffee

What Are Biscotti?

Biscotti are an Italian twice-baked cookie.

You begin by baking these tasty treats in a loaf, then slicing with a serrated knife, and finish them with a second round of baking.

This yields a dry, crunchy oblong cookie that is perfect for dunking!

Are Biscotti Gluten-Free?

Many of our readers need to eat gluten-free so this is one of our most commonly asked questions. Biscotti are made with flour (this recipe is made with all-purpose and wheat flour) so biscotti are NOT gluten-free.

How Can I Make Biscotti Gluten- Free?

Substitutions for all-purpose flour in this recipe can be made by using oat flour instead. Here is a recipe for gluten-free gingerbread biscotti that may cater to your dietary needs more.

where to find molasses for gingerbread biscotti

Where Do I Find Molasses In My Grocery Store?

I can admit, the first time I started making gingerbread-flavored items, I had NO CLUE where to find molasses in my grocery store.

Is molasses in the cereal aisle with the pancake mixes or is it in the baking supplies aisle?

If you are lost too, I would suggest you check both aisles. While I have found it in my baking supplies aisle, some stores do carry it in their breakfast aisle.

Don’t think of it as only being stocked near the sugar either. This can be found randomly down by spices or even near the puddings.

Don’t want to hit your grocery store? Check here and order online instead.

How to Make Gingerbread Biscotti



This Gingerbread Biscotti is filled with all of the gingerbread flavors you love.

To achieve this flavor, we mix molasses, brown sugar, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon into our batter.

patting the gingerbread biscotti dough

Splitting Gingerbread Biscotti Dough for a Second Bake

split gingerbread dough patted down

Gingerbread Biscotti Dough After First Bake

Cutting Biscotti for a Second Bake

The most important thing with this biscotti, I have found, it to keep an eye on it because it will go from done to burnt rather quickly!

Start checking these after twenty minutes (on your first bake time) and don’t leave them neglected after that point or you may have some burnt biscotti on your hands!

After baking these, for the first time, you will slice them with a sharp knife (serrated is a great option).

You should note that you start with a higher temperature, on the first baking, and then you reduce the oven temperature for the second round of baking.

Gingerbread Biscotti Baked a Second Time

Once they are sliced, you will spread them out on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. 

Bake them again.

Gingerbread Biscotti Glaze

Drizzling Glaze on Gingerbread Biscotti

After finishing the second round of baking, allow these to cool completely on a wire rack before drizzling with glaze.

Packaged Gingerbread Biscotti

Close Up of Homemade Gingerbread Biscotti With Glaze

These can be packaged in festive treat bags with a little ribbon and would make a cute accompaniment to a favorite homemade drink mix, coffee, or the makings of a coffee gift basket with my homemade peppermint syrup or gingerbread syrup for easy homemade lattes.

However you package it, solo or in a basket, I guarantee that this recipe will be a hit for your holiday giving and baking!

Gingerbread Biscotti  
Recipe Type: Dessert
Author: Adapted from AlRecipes.com
Prep time: 25 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Total time: 1 hour 5 mins
Serves: 4 dozen
A sweet and simple gingerbread biscotti recipe that is perfect for your holiday gift-giving!
Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger
  • 3/4 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • For Glaze: 1/2 cup confectioners sugar (icing or powdered sugar), sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 – 3 tablespoons milk or light cream
Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together oil, sugar, eggs, and molasses. In another bowl, combine flours, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg; mix into egg mixture to form a stiff dough (depending on your humidity, the dough may be sticky).
  3. Divide dough in half, and shape each half into a roll the length of the cookie.
  4. Place rolls on lined cookie sheet, and pat down to flatten the dough to ½ inch wide thickness.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. KEEP A VERY CLOSE EYE ON IT as it will go from done to burnt quickly.
  6. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool.
  7. When cool enough to touch, move over to a cutting board and cut into 1/2 inch thick diagonal slices.
  8. Place sliced biscotti on cookie sheet, and bake an additional 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until toasted and crispy. If the biscotti already looks a little “too” crispy, you can decrease your oven temperature to 275 degrees and bake for 7-10 minutes instead.
  9. Let cool.
  10. In a small bowl mix together the confectioners sugar, vanilla extract and milk until it is incorporated. Using a small spoon, drizzle back and forth your glaze over the biscotti. Allow the icing to harden before packaging.

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Looking for more great holiday hostess gift? Here are 3 other projects to check out!

Chocolate Coffee Spoons from MomAdvice.com make some chocolate coffee spoons to pair with the biscotti

No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars from MomAdvice.com

no bake peppermint cheesecakes in a jar

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Candles slow cooker pumpkin spice candles (SO fun and easy!)

What fun treats are you baking this holiday season? Any great big batch recipes you might like to share?

Gingerbread Biscotti Recipe Step By Step Header

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Last Minute Thanksgiving Tablescape Ideas

Saturday, November 16th, 2019

Last Minute Thanksgiving Tablescape Ideas from MomAdvice.com I can’t believe that Thanksgiving is upon us!

This year I get to host both sides of my family at my home for the Thanksgiving holiday so I have been in full planning mode over the last couple of weeks.
 
As a hostess, I know that often our time is more focused on the food than the decorations, but you need not spend oodles of your time crafting or purchasing a lot to make your table beautiful.
 
In fact, this post shows you that that by shopping your very own home and adding a few inexpensive items from Goodwill, you are just minutes away from the perfect Thanksgiving table.
 
Here are six great last minute Thanksgiving ideas to pull together a beautiful time for your holiday feast.
 
Thanksgiving tablescape
 

Add Thoughtful Layering

I am seeing so many beautiful layers this year for Thanksgiving decor.

 

Holly Mathis Interiors shows you a beautiful table that you can achieve easily by layering items from around your house or from Goodwill.

A couple of items to note in this shot, you can add backyard leaf branches in glass jars to add a rustic element, flannel throws add warmth to the table without a more formal tablecloth, pumpkins add another natural element, and you can mix and match your chairs or mix in chairs found from the store to create that homey detail that I love.

 
How pretty is that?
 
Thanksgiving tablescape
 

Add Unexpected Textures

Once again, I am seeing that people are pulling away from the traditional tablecloth and going for the unexpected texture on table.

 
In Home Stories A to Z, she has used a beautiful cabled throw to add warmth and texture to the table.
 

White linens can be stamped with gold (I love my friend Michael’s easy gold foil napkins tutorial for this!)

Check your favorite thrift store for pretty knit blanket throws or white linens for stamping.

 

You never know what treasures you can find in housewares until you go browse!

Additional details like pretty ribbon, personalized tags, and a few well-placed feathers never hurt either, do they?

 
Thanksgiving tablescape
 

Make Your Guests Feel Cozy

 

If I was going to design my perfect Thanksgiving table, it would look just like this.
 
 
Gatherings of friends in the crisp fall air with cozy blankets are such a beautiful and lovely way to celebrate the season.
 
 
Once again, we see how cozy the mismatched look can be.
 
 
From mismatched pillows to blankets to chairs, it all comes together beautifully when placed around a table.
 
 
A glass vase can hold a rustic bouquet from the backyard and pumpkins offer a beautiful detail leading up to the barn.
 
 
This is definitely my dream tablescape and can be achieved just by bringing a few of the items you have from inside your house to the great outdoors. (image source: Lexington Company)
 
 

Thanksgiving Monogram plates

 

Personalize It

When something has my name on it, it immediately feels special to me.
 
I love this idea for taking a simple Plexiglas circle and adding a little calligraphy to it to personalize each table setting for your guests.
 
Is your handwriting as terrible as mine?
 
I sure hope not!
 
If it is though, Almost Makes Perfect provides the template you need to create your names and simply trace them, making this a beautiful and painless craft for the table.

 

Thanksgiving tablescape

 

Add a 5-Minute Detail

Centerpieces can be pricey and feel tricky to pull together especially if you lack that designer instinct.
 
I have found that the simpler the centerpiece though, the easier it is to see and chat with my dinner guests.
 
My sweet friend, Julie Blanner, is the queen of beautiful and simple decor and she shares her easy 5-minute centerpiece for the holidays on her blog.
 
With a quick trip to the grocery store and a platter, you can add a little natural beauty in no time flat!
 
I also love these give thanks printables to tuck in your cutlery from Craftaholics Anonymous.
 
That is another 5-minute detail I feel confident that I could execute!
 
 
 
Thanksgiving utensils
 
 

Dress up your Utensils

 
Julie over at The Craft Patch has these adorable utensil pouches that will make any table a little more fun!
 
Wrap around the napkin with the knives and forks and your table is set and beautiful!
 
 
 
Herb centerpiece
 

Put the Leftover Herbs to Work

 
My kitchen is filled with sage for our favorite stuffing and herbed turkey that I have loved to serve over the years.
 
If you have any leftover, it can add a beautiful detail to your table.
 
Simply place the herbs in a glass jar and tie with a simple satin ribbon to finish.
 
Not only is this pretty to look at, but it also smells so good too! (image source: Buzzfeed)
 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and I hope these easy last minute ideas inspire you for your holiday meal!

 

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Last Minute Thanksgiving Tablescape Ideas MomAdvice.com

 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links.

 

Here are some more great Thanksgiving ideas from MomAdvice.com:

The Best of Fall, Halloween & Thanksgiving-49 Ideas for Decor, Crafts, Recipes, Costumes & More

Best of Fall, Halloween & Thanksgiving

 

 

Make Ahead & Freeze Thanksgiving Dinner MomAdvice.com

Make-Ahead & Freeze Your Thanksgiving Meal

 

 

DIY Thanksgiving Centerpiece MomAdvice.com

DIY Thanksgiving Centerpiece

 

 

DIY Thumbtack Pumpkins MomAdvice.com

DIY Thumbtack Pumpkins

 

 

DIY Tablerunner for all seasons MomAdvice.com

DIY Table Runner for All Seasons

 

 

Last minute Thanksgiving tablescape ideas from MomAdvice.com

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks

Tuesday, November 12th, 2019

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

Here’s a list of everything you need to stream on television for Thanksgiving! These 6 tv shows, with hilarious and heartwarming Thanksgiving episodes, prove that this season really is all about family. Be sure to pin this post so you can remember this list of Thanksgiving episodes, for your family, every year.

From our marriage & parenting contributor, Mary Carver.

Apparently this is the year the internet decided we should get all up in arms about “skipping Thanksgiving.”

Because if I had a nickel for every meme, GIF, and comment I’ve seen about how we are just starting Christmas too soon and Hallmark and Hobby Lobby need to slow their roll and take time for Thanksgiving, I’d have a whole lot more money for Christmas shopping. 

Okay, look.

Nobody is skipping Thanksgiving.

For one thing, Friends is such a big deal this year that in the last week of November, you can go to the theater and watch all 8 Friends Thanksgiving episodes.

Calm down, Karen! Fathom Events and Friends is going to make sure we don’t skip Thanksgiving! (All those details are here.)

But also, news flash!, we can be extra grateful even while preparing for Christmas.

We can eat turkey while watching Lifetime Christmas movies.

We can hang leaves on our gratitude trees and play touch football that turns into fighting football and go around the table and talk about what we’re most thankful for even if the lights are already on the house.

It’s going to be okay.

And, if we take a little time to enjoy Thanksgiving with our favorite TV episodes devoted to the supposedly overlooked but not really holiday, it will be way better than okay.

Because something about forcing people together for a meal on which we place sky-high expectations brings out the most outrageous, laughable situations — at least on TV!

While those ingredients might make for tension and drama in real life, something about watching fictional holiday dysfunction played for laughs alleviates our actual stress.

After all, Uncle Larry might be making the rounds again with awkward hugs and offensive jokes, but at least nobody is going to end up with a turkey on her head.

Perspective, people.

Several of our favorite shows will air brand-new Thanksgiving episodes this year.

But in case you want to start celebrating early (gasp! can you imagine?!), here’s a list of shows with rich and ridiculous Thanksgiving traditions.

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

 

Modern Family

One of the things I love most about this family is their insane competitive nature.

And for some reason, that comes out most brilliantly at Thanksgiving.

Tired of hearing humble brags about kids who play more sports and getter better grades than yours?

Join the Pritchetts as they try to prove who’s best. Stream on Hulu.

  • Punkin Chunkin – season 3, episode 9
  • Three Turkeys – season 6, episode 8
  • Thanksgiving Jamboree – season 8, episode 7
  • Winner Winner Turkey Dinner – season 9, episode 7 

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

How I Met Your Mother

What do I love more than a bit that lasts multiple seasons?

NOTHING.

Not a thing.

So Slapsgiving is right up my alley, and my husband and I quote it to this day! Stream on Hulu.

  • Belly Full of Turkey – season 1, episode 9
  • Slapsgiving – season 3, episode 9
  • Slapsgiving 2: Revenge of the Slap – season 5, episode 2
  • Blitzgiving – season 6, episode 10
  • The Rebound Girl – season 7, episode 11

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

Will & Grace

The Thanksgiving episodes for Will & Grace are so epic, they require more than one episode per season!

Secrets (and so much more) come out, and it makes me laugh every time! Stream on Hulu.

  • Homo for the Holidays – season 2, episode 7
  • Lows in the Mid-Eighties – season 3, episodes 8-9
  • Moveable Feast – season 4, episodes 9-10
  • Queens for a Day – season 7, episodes 10-11

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

New Girl

Anyone who attempts to defrost a turkey in the dryer is clearly a Thanksgiving pro.

If by “Thanksgiving pro,” I mean someone who will make me laugh so hard I cry and also make me feel better about my own domestic abilities.

Thank you, New Girl. Stream on Netflix.

  • Thanksgiving – season 1, episode 6
  • Parents – season 2, episode 8
  • Thanksgiving III – season 3, episode 10
  • Thanksgiving IV – season 4, episode 9
  • Last Thanksgiving – season 6, episode 7

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

The Goldbergs

I have been slowly watching this show over the past year.

Slowly because I love it SO MUCH and I don’t ever want it to end.

And what do I consistently love most of all?

The Thanksgiving episodes.

Because who loses her mind more at the holidays than a smother mother?

Nobody, that’s who. Stream on Hulu.

  • Stop Arguing & Start Thanking – season 1, episode 9
  • A Goldberg Thanksgiving – season 2, episode 7
  • In Conclusion, Thanksgiving – season 3, episode 8
  • Ho-ly K.I.T.T. – season 4, episode 7
  • A Wall Street Thanksgiving – season 5, episode 7

6 Sitcoms That Make Us Give Thanks from MomAdvice.com

Friends


Back in the early days of blogging, I wrote about Friends Thanksgiving episodes multiple times.

I’m not even the biggest Friends fan in the world, but could its holiday episodes BE any more iconic? Stream on Netflix.

  • The One Where the Underdog Gets Away – season 1, episode 9
  • The One with the List – season 2, episode 8
  • The One with the Football – season 3, episode 9
  • The One with All the Thanksgivings – season 5, episode 8
  • The One Where Ross Got High – season 6, episode 9
  • The One Where Chandler Doesn’t Like Dogs – season 7, episode 8
  • The One with Rachel’s Other Sister – season 9, episode 8
  • The One with the Late Thanksgiving – season 10, episode 8

Lots of other TV shows have fantastic Thanksgiving episodes (Fresh Off the Boat, Master of None, West Wing, This is Us, Parenthood, and Gilmore Girls to name just a few.) I’d love to hear about which ones are your favorites!

For a helpful guide for surviving Thanksgiving like the Gilmore Girls, click here.

Mary Carver is a writer, speaker, and recovering perfectionist. She lives for good books, spicy queso, and television marathons, but she lives because of God’s grace. Mary writes with humor and honesty about giving up on perfect and finding truth in unexpected places on her blog,MaryCarver.com. She is the author of Fast Talk & Faith: A 22-Day Devotional Inspired by Gilmore Girls and co-author of Choose Joy: Finding Hope & Purpose When Life Hurts. She is also a regular contributor to incourage.me and MothersofDaughters.com. Mary and her husband live in Kansas City with their two daughters.

What are your favorite Thanksgiving TV episodes?

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Love this post? Here are some other Thanksgiving posts you might enjoy!

How to Organize Board Games from MomAdvice.com planning a few rounds of board games for Thanksgiving? Check out this post on getting them all organized for family time

How to Make Homeless Care Packages from MomAdvice.com looking for an activity to do together? These homeless care packages would be a great family activity.

Printable Travel Games from MomAdvice.com hitting the road for the holiday? print out these free travel games to keep the kids busy!

Make Ahead Thanksgiving Meal Ideas from MomAdvice.com make and freeze this year’s thanksgiving meal, ahead of time, with this fun menu plan

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Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy (With VIDEO)

Tuesday, November 5th, 2019

 

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

Did you know that is possible to make your gravy recipe early and freeze it for the holidays. This gravy hack can be done by using turkey (or chicken) wings for your base. You won’t believe how delicious this recipe!

I’m back with another make-ahead recipe for Thanksgiving Day today.

This week I am sharing a fantastic Make-Ahead Gravy recipe that you can have waiting in your freezer for the big day.

I am excited about this recipe because it provides, yet again, one more dish that you can create to make your day as stress-free as possible.

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

 

 

To begin this recipe and create the base, without the turkey, you can use chicken or turkey wings and add onions that you roast in your oven to make those magical drippings that you need to create the base of this gravy recipe.

I was not able to locate turkey wings at our market so I substituted with the always available chicken wings.

Don’t be surprised if your kitchen already smells like Thanksgiving with just the base of this recipe!

 

Be sure to scrap those delicious pan drippings up from your dutch oven or roasting pan. These stuck on bits are what make your dressing so rich and flavorful. They also add a rich golden brown hue to your gravy.

Add chopped carrots, celery, fresh herbs, turkey or chicken stock, and a little poultry seasoning, salt, and ground pepper. All these additions really help to round out the flavorings in this make-ahead dish.

Allow this to simmer, stirring occasionally, for one-and-a-half hours. Add the flour mixture to the gravy to thicken. After straining, you can whisk in the flour and cook whisking constantly.

When reheating, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed. I like to put mine in saucepan over medium high heat.

There you have it, an easy make-ahead gravy that makes eight cups of delicious gravy for the big day!

Note: This should yield approximately five cups of gravy!

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

 

 

Make-Ahead Gravy
 
Recipe Type: Side
Author: Adapted Slightly from AllRecipes
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 15-20
Don’t panic about the gravy this year! Try this easy make-ahead gravy recipe that makes eight cups of gravy for your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
  • 6 turkey or chicken wings
  • 2 medium onions, peeled and quartered
  • 2 tablespooons olive oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 quarts chicken broth, divided
  • 3/4 cup chopped carrot
  • 1-2 stalks of celery, chopped
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (leave on the stem and add to the pot)
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Arrange a single layer of turkey or chicken wings in a large roasting pan. Scatter the onions over the top of the wings. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 1-1/4 hours or until wings are browned.
  2. Place browned wings and onions in a 5 quart stockpot. Add water to roasting pan and stir, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Pour the the water from the pan into the stockpot. Stir in 6 cups broth, carrot, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper (to taste). Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 1-1/2 hours.
  3. Remove wings from the pot and place on a cutting board. When the wings are cool, pull off the skin and meat. Discard the skin and save the meat for another use. Strain contents of stockpot through a large strainer into a 3 quart saucepan. Press on the vegetables to extract any remaining liquid. Discard the vegetables and skim the fat off the liquid. Bring the contents of the pot to a gentle boil.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk flour into the remaining 2 cups chicken broth until smooth. Gradually whisk the flour mixture into the simmering turkey broth; simmer 3-4 minutes or until the gravy has thickened. Stir in the butter and pepper. Serve immediately or pour into containers and refrigerate or freeze.
 

 

 

Looking for more Thanksgiving Make-Ahead Dishes? Here are a few of my favorites!

Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce from MomAdvice.com make ahead cranberry sauce

Make-Ahead Green Bean Casserole make-ahead green bean casserole make-ahead mashed potatoes make-ahead mashed potatoes

 

make-ahead apple, sausage, and sage sourdough stuffing

Bacon, Apple, and Cornbread Stuffing from MomAdvice.com make-ahead bacon, apple, and cornbread gluten-free stuffing

How to Decorate Store-Bought Pies from MomAdvice.com how to decorate store-bought pies for the big day

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This post contains affiliate links.

Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe from MomAdvice.com

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How to Knit a Scarf for Fall (FREE Scarf and Cowl Knitting Patterns)

Monday, November 4th, 2019

Are you looking for a few quick knitting projects? Today I’m sharing a few of my favorite free knitting patterns to make a quick easy cowl, an infinity scarf, and more. From super bulky knitted cowls to pretty ruffled scarves, I have 7 great patterns for you today!

I was madly in love with scarf knitting when I first began to knit.

Knitted scarves are a fabulous way to learn pattern, try stitches you have never tried before, and can be an elegant (and frugal) gift to give when the holiday season rolls around. 

I have spent many days learning the techniques of different stitch patterns that now, many of these feel like an old friend. The first stitch pattern I mastered was, of course, garter stitch. After that, I knitted a seed stitch and worked my way out to a more complex lace cowl.

Have you always wanted to learn to knit a scarf? This is a great time to start thinking about asking for knitting classes for Christmas.

I love doing courses through Skillshare because their memberships are super affordable.

Want to try out a Skillshare membership? Here is a coupon for two months of free classes to get you started!

I love to knit scarves and I want to share with you 7 fun patterns to add to your knitting projects. Each of these is uniquely special and the patterns are free!

It may not feel like scarf season just yet, but for knitters, it is time to start our engines for holiday knitting.

Each year I try to knit a scarf for our teachers, friends, and family.

I already have my eyes on a few new patterns to try for this year, but wanted to share with you a few of my favorite scarves I have done in years past and how to package them for gift-giving this year.

Are you my friend on Ravelry?

If not, I would love to be friends! My username is momadvice on there. I am always looking for new friends to knit with and share project ideas!

 

How to Knit a Scarf for Fall (FREE Scarf and Cowl Knitting Patterns)

(don’t forget to download the Rakuten app to get cash back on all of your craft purchases)

 

How to Knit a Ruffled Lace Scarf from MomAdvice.com

I knitted three of these ruffled scarves last year and all of them turned out so pretty!

These ruffled scarves are definitely a statement piece, meant to add a punch of femininity to your winter coat!

I made one in this light gray for a friend, one in a charcoal gray for my sister, and one in ivory for my mom. I am determined to knit one of these in a fun jewel tone this year for myself.

How to Knit a Ruffled Lace Scarf from MomAdvice.com

How to Knit a Ruffled Lace Scarf from MomAdvice.com

How to Knit a Ruffled Lace Scarf from MomAdvice.com

Beautifully Ruffled Lace Scarves

Pattern:

Ruffle Lace Scarf by Suzie Blackman

Needle Size:

US 10 Needles (40″ circular needles)

Yarn:

Caron Simply Soft in Heather Gray (or a thin worsted weight yarn)

What You Should Know About This Ruffled Lace Scarf Pattern:

If you want a scarf that is wildly impressive, can be created with a single ball of yarn, and looks like a million bucks than this scarf would be the perfect gift to give this holiday season.

It is a very mindless knit, but is an INSANE amount of stitches, especially in the last two rows (over one thousand stitches!).

The beauty of this scarf though is that you only need to know how to knit, purl, and yarn over to create it.

The twisting is created by knitting the scarf lengthwise, rather than width-wise and through the series of yarn overs.

As pictures above show, you can see that it is really hard to see your stitches, let alone if it is actually going to twist.

The good news is, as you cast off, you will see that scarf naturally twists, making that beautiful ruffled twist.

This one is definitely a statement piece and is also a statement of your absolute love for whoever you might make it for!

I followed the pattern that is linked above, but added four more rows to give the scarf a fuller appearance. I repeated rows 11-14 two times before I started rows 15-16. I am really glad I did and love the lush fullness of this scarf.

How to Knit a Gorgeous Gathered Scarf Pattern from MomAdvice.com

Gorgeous Gathered Scarves

Pattern:

Gathered Scarf by Maryse Roudier

Needle Size:

US 4 & US 7

Yarn:

Lion Brand Cotton Ease in Lime

What You Should Know About This Gathered Scarf Pattern:

I knitted two of these beautiful scarves in a soft lime green and in ivory for my sister and one for a friend as holiday gifts and they both wore them often with their winter coats.

This was the first time I attempted anything that ruffled or gathered, and thought it would be a fun pattern for someone who just wants to start trying a pattern with some texture in it.

This pattern is so easy for a beginner and was a gift that was loved by both of them. 

You actually use two different needle sizes to create the gathered effect on these scarves which added beautiful detail and a bit of ruffling to the scarves.

I loved that the cotton is so stretchy and soft.

I would definitely recommend this pattern especially to a beginner who is looking to add a little variation to the traditional scarf!

How to Knit the Merci Scarf Pattern for Men from MomAdvice.com

 

Merci Scarf

Pattern:

Merci Scarf by Susan Rainey

Needle Size:

US 8 Needles (I used size US 9 needles, which created a little bit wider scarf, but you could use the US 8’s that are recommended)

Yarn:

Premier Yarns Serenity Chunky Weight in Molten Lava (2.5 skeins)

How to Knit the Merci Scarf Pattern for Men from MomAdvice.com

How to Knit the Merci Scarf Pattern for Men from MomAdvice.com

What You Should Know About This Merci Pattern:

This scarf is so simple and fast to whip up that it would make the perfect gift to give to any man in your life. The super bulky yarn and simple stitch pattern make it one of those scarves that is easy to have on the knitting needles.

This pattern is one that you can complete while watching your favorite shows on television and is almost impossible to get off track. 

This yarn was also perfect for creating a really warm scarf, perfect for our Midwest winters. 

I would recommend this scarf pattern for a beginning knitter or for a last minute gift for someone special in your life!

I made these for my husband and brother and they both wore them every day.

It made me so proud to see my knits were loved by them and to know they were wrapped in something that I made just for them.

How to Knit An Anthropologie Inspired Scarflet from MomAdvice.com

 

Anthropologie-Inspired Scarflets

Pattern:

Anthro-Inspired Scarflet (available as a free Ravelry download with your free Ravelry membership) by Kim Seio & Lydia Flowers (optional, for embellishment) or cute buttons.

Needle Size:

US 8 Needles (straight) for both the flowers and the scarflet

Yarn:

Premier Yarns Chunky Weight in Pristine (scarf) & Yarn Bee Boucle Traditions in Black (for the first scarf) & Premier Yarns Chunky Weight in Brown with simple ivory button threaded with pink embroidery thread (for the second scarf)

How to Knit An Anthropologie Inspired Scarflet from MomAdvice.com

How to Knit An Anthropologie Inspired Scarflet from MomAdvice.com

How to Knit An Anthropologie Inspired Scarflet from MomAdvice.com

What You Should Know About This Anthropologie-Inspired Scarflet Pattern:

I followed the sizing and increases that ilikecookies(another Ravelry member) had shared in her pattern.

She said, “Increased until 30 stitches, worked 15 rows even until ribbed section and knit 15 rows of ribbing to make a slightly larger scarflet.”

I added a black Lydia Flower (size small) with a red button center to finish it or colorful buttons with contrasting embroidery thread to finish!

Next time I make this, I will have to write on the label though that these were scarfs.

The teachers thought they might be hats…which I guess you could do too! 

Regardless, I got such wonderful compliments and tried to make each of them unique with flower embellishments or different unique buttons and colored embroidery threads on each one.

Want to take your gift to the next level? Invest in a personalized stamp that lets the recipient know that their gift was handmade.

How to Knit a Dolce Neck Cozy Pattern

 

Dolce Neck Cozy

Pattern:

Dolce Neck Cozy by Fiddle Knits Designs

Needle Size:

US 9 Needles (straight)

Yarn:

Bamboospun Natural Bamboo Yarn (purchased at Hobby Lobby)

How to Knit a Dolce Neck Cozy Pattern

How to Knit a Dolce Neck Cozy Pattern

How to Knit a Dolce Neck Cozy Pattern

What You Should Know About This Dolce Neck Cozy Pattern:

This was one of my first projects when I learned to knit and would be a perfect project for a newbie knitter. 

At the time I had no idea how to do buttonholes or how to knit with two strands of yarn so this was what I was able to do with my limited knitting knowledge.

I completed the Dulce #2 (Browns) Pattern. This took almost all 148 yards, but I knitted loosely so I would not have to make the buttonhole.

I opted for one button instead of two and chose a black wooden button to bring the cowl together.

This would be a great pattern to take on a trip because it has only one row of real pattern and alternates only between two rows one of purling and one of pattern.

It has a herringbone type of look to it and looks far more complicated than it is.

Thanks to the large needles, it is an easy cowl pattern to whip up.

I made this in bamboo which was so soft, it felt just like a blanket.

This is a great project for instant gratification!

It is a wonderful pattern for a newbie knitter in understanding yarn overs.

How to Knit the Rainy Day Scarf Pattern from MomAdvice.com

 

 

Rainy Day Scarf

Pattern:

Rainy Day Scarf by Beth Collins

Needle Size:

US 9 Needles (straight)

Yarn:

Bernat Cottontots in Strawberry

How to Knit the Rainy Day Scarf Pattern

What You Should Know About This Rainy Day Scarf Pattern

I remember being so darn proud of these scarves because these were my first scarves that I had ever knitted and gave as gifts to our kids teachers.

This is a great pattern because it is easy and straightforward for a beginning knitter because you only need to know how to do the purl and knit stitches.

This scarf was packaged with my homemade cocoa mix and vanilla chai mix in a green and lovely way… in those old Crystal Light containers.

Isn’t that a great upcycle?

I used some holiday gift wrap to cover them and tied a gift tag with some raffia around the drink mix containers.

These are ideal, particularly for teacher gifts, because I don’t have to worry that my children will break the jars in route to school.

Waterproof and airtight, it keeps the drink mix nice and safe. With a handmade or store-bought scarf, it makes a perfectly cozy gift to give.

How to Package a Knitted Scarf from MomAdvice.com

How to Package Up Your Handmade Scarves for Gift-Giving

For a sweet and simple gift idea, tuck a small denominator gift card in the pocket where the scarf slides in or tie it with a little ribbon or yarn to your handmade item.

I made a stack of these for our teacher gifts last year and each one had a $5 Starbucks gift card tucked into the pocket that was created in the scarflet.

I also finish all of my knitted gifts with fun homemade gift tags.

I used my Cricut to create the rounded rectangle template. I made these simple tags out of ivory card stock or you can just buy a package of tags to add to your handmade gifts.

As a holiday treat to myself last Christmas, I bought myself a personalized stamp and, I have to say, it really added that professional touch to my gifts! 

They have one for knitters and one for crocheters too.

Happy knitting, friends!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This post contains affiliate links.

Looking for more great knitted gift ideas? Here are a few of my favorites!

How to Make Knitted Wine Toppers from MomAdvice.com how to make knitted wine bottle hats and scarves for hostess gifts

DIY Chunky Knit Hygge Blanket how to knit a big fat hygge blanket (DIY Chunky Knit Blanket)

Knitted Leaves Centerpiece how to make a knitted leaf centerpiece with branches & scrap yarn 

How to Make Knitted Sweater Coffee Cozies from MomAdvice.com how to knit sweater coffee cozies for gifts

Have you knitted any of the scarves we featured today? I’d love to hear about your knitting projects!

7 Easy Scarves and Cowls to Knit from MomAdvice.com

7 Easy Scarves and Cowls to Knit from MomAdvice.com

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The Hidden Secrets to Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Monday, November 4th, 2019

The Hidden Secrets to Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies from MomAdvice.com

Do you know the hidden secrets to the perfect cut-out sugar cookies? Put your stand mixer to work and blend up this incredible sugar cookie dough. You will learn how to make rolling and cutting sugar cookies easier. These tricks yield cookies that stay soft- bookmark this perfect cut-out cookie recipe today!

I love, love, love to cook.

Baking bread, whipping up fancy dinners, making stacks of gourmet waffles…those are my favorite thing to do!

Baking cookies?

Total fail.

I don’t know what it is, but making great cookies is not something I am good at.

To be honest, I just don’t think I have the patience for it.

More than that, I haven’t had the time.

I rely on bar cookies, quick breads, and other easy snacks to get us by.

Of all of the fails, cut-out sugar cookies have been the biggest fail for me.

They are misshapen, taste like cardboard, and are far too time-consuming.

I tried so many recipes with the same results and had determined that cut-out cookies were just NOT my thing.

I decided this year though that I would find a good recipe that would look nice and yield a tasty result.

Where do I turn when I don’t have time to run a full-fledged test kitchen out of my home?

My America’s Test Kitchen Family Cookbook.

Don’t they have such great recipes?

The recipe was entirely unique and promised fantastic results.

Crisp cookies, full flavor, and step-by-step tutorials that would be worth eating and sharing.

The Hidden Secrets to Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies from MomAdvice.com

The Hidden Secrets to Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Trick #1: Use a Superfine Sugar

The first step towards a great sugar cookie was to use superfine sugar.

According to the cookbook, superfine sugar gives the cookies a finer crumb and crisper texture.

What is Superfine Sugar?

Superfine sugar s simply granulated sugar that’s been ground more finely. It’s often called for in recipes where a faster dissolving granule is needed.

This ingredient can be purchased at your local grocery store over by the other sugar options.

Don’t want to buy superfine sugar for one recipe?

Yeah, me either!

How Can I Make My Own Superfine Sugar?

Instead of purchasing a specialty sugar, process one cup of your granulated sugar in a food processor or blender.

Once the sugar is to a fine consistency (approximately 30 seconds), you can measure out 3/4 cup for your recipe.

Easy enough!

You know me, I chose the cheaper option for this recipe and put my blender to work.

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Trick #2: The “Reverse Mixing Method

The second step to their perfect cookie was a “reverse” mixing method.

In traditional recipes, we would cream the room temperature butter and sugar together. They took a reverse mixing method approach instead.

With this method, you mix together all of the dry ingredients first and then add butter tablespoon by tablespoon.

The dough mixture is finished with cream cheese, another unusual addition to a cut-out sugar cookie recipe. This ingredient really pulls everything together and makes the dough workable. Once it has pulled together, finish with a little vanilla extract for flavor!

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

 

The dough looked like this. It looked crumbly and not very wet. You were instructed to pull the dough together with your hands and form it into a ball. I wasn’t too sure how this was going to work out. It just did not seem sticky enough to me.

The dough looked like this. It looked crumbly and not very wet.

You were instructed to pull the dough together with your hands and form it into a ball.

I wasn’t too sure how this was going to work out. It just did not seem sticky enough to me.

After a couple of minutes of kneading, this is what my dough looked like. I don’t think my dough has ever looked this good.

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Trick #3: Chill Your Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Dough

Have you ever had a sugar cookie that looks misshapen?

Chances are that the cook didn’t chill the dough. This look step helps these cut-out cookies to turn out great.

Divide the dough and place them in your refrigerator to chill. It is recommended to flatten them into two 4″ disks, and leave them there for 20-30 minutes.

 

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

 

While the dough is chilling, you can tidy up the kitchen and then get everything else ready to go.

Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper and lay out your cookie cutters.

Next, tear off two additional sheets of parchment paper per dough disk to roll out your cookie dough.

That’s right, no floured counters which will save on clean-up time!

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Tip #4: Roll Your Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Dough Between Two Sheets of Parchment Paper

Put your disk between the parchment paper and roll the dough out.

I secured one set of corners between me and the counter to hold the paper in place.

Tip #5: After You Roll Out Your Sugar Cookie Dough, chill it AGAIN!

Now pop the dough back in the refrigerator for ten more minutes or until the dough is firm for cutting.

I know waiting for the dough to chill again feels like a waste of time.

Trust me, you will be glad you did it.

This will yield a cookie with sharp edges and that hold their shape.

I promise that this will be worth the wait.

At this point, I was already patting myself on the back.

Aren’t you glad you weren’t in the kitchen with me for this annoying moment?

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

The cookies cut out beautifully and were firm enough that I could easily transfer them over to the parchment paper.

How crazy that we won’t be losing snowman feet and arms or the poor wings off of our bird cookies!

I bet you are glad you never saw my past cookies (*ahem*)!

Put your cookie sheets in the oven and watch them through the glass.

Be sure to continue, annoyingly, patting yourself on the back.

Tip #6: Rotate Your Cookie Sheets For Even Heating

Instead of letting one rack stay doughy and one rack get burnt, they have you rotate the cookie sheets halfway through.

What a novel idea!

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

These are my cookies after baking!

I KNOW!

Keep in mind, these cookies remain a pale color so don’t worry that they haven’t cooked long enough. Ten minutes is just the amount of time you need for these cookies to

They didn’t look done to me, but they were so don’t overcook them.

I had one batch that got out in the nick of time after I added two minutes to the cooking time.

They will harden up for you without any additional cooking.

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Tip #7: Ice Your Cookies With America’s Test Kitchen Royal Icing (OR NOT)

They recommend decorating with a royal icing glaze.

I am not a fan of how those royal icing recipes turn out.

I stick to a traditional frosting recipe that requires a little more time to harden, but has a thicker tasting frosting.

What If I Want the America’s Test Kitchen Royal Icing Recipe?

Blend together 2 cups (8 ounces) confectioners’ sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, 1 ounce cream cheese, softened, and food coloring to make the America’s Test Kitchen Glaze.

Since our cookie sheets were lined with parchment paper, I reused these sheets for decorating.

This caught any runaway sprinkles or the sprinkle dumping that seems to occur every year (see above for examples).

The cookies looked good, but the real question is did they taste good? I asked our very official taste-testing and decorating crew to give me their honest opinions.

Sometimes a picture is all you need! They were perfect, not crumbly, sturdy, but not thick, tangy, but buttery. Basically, perfection!

The cookies looked good, but the real question is did they taste good? I asked our very official taste-testing and decorating crew to give me their honest opinions.

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Hidden Secrets to the Perfect Sugar Cookie from MomAdvice.com

Sometimes a picture is all you need! They were perfect, not crumbly, sturdy, but not thick, tangy, but buttery. Basically, perfection!

The Hidden Secrets to Perfect Cu-Out Sugar Cookies from MomAdvice.com

The Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
 
Recipe Type: Desserts
Author: Adapted from America’s Test Kitchen Family Cookbook
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: approximately 3 dozen
Do you know the hidden secrets to the perfect cut-out sugar cookies? Put your stand mixer to work and blend up this incredible sugar cookie dough. You will learn how to make rolling and cutting sugar cookies easier. These tricks yield cookies that stay soft- bookmark this perfect cut-out cookie recipe today!
Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup superfine sugar (purchased or diy this flour with my instructions above)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2″ pieces & softened
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Rolling pin, cookie cutters, and sprinkles
  • Sugar Cookie Frosting:
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 4 cups confectioners sugar (powdered sugar)
  • 5 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Food coloring
Instructions
  1. Whisk the flour, sugar, & salt together in a large bowl.
  2. Beat the butter pieces (into the flour mixture) one piece at a time. I suggest using an electric mixer on medium-low speed, and beating until the mixture looks crumbly and slightly wet. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Beat in the cream cheese & vanilla until he dough just begins to form large clumps, about thirty seconds.
  4. Knead the dough in the large bowl by hand a few times until it forms a large, cohesive mass.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a clean counter, divide it in half, and apt into a two four inch disks.
  6. Wrap the disks tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until they begin to firm up, 20 to 30 minutes.
  7. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 375.
  8. Work with one disk at a time, roll out the dough to a 1/8″ thickness between two sheets of parchment paper.
  9. Slide the rolled dough and parchment onto a baking sheet & refrigerate again until firm.
  10. Working with one sheet of cookie dough at a time, cut out shapes using your cookie cutters.
  11. Next, lay them on two parchment-lined baking sheets, spaced about 1″ apart.
  12. Bake the cookies until light golden brown, about ten minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking.
  13. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  14. Be sure to allow them to cool completely (approximately 30 minutes)
  15. When cooled, the cookies can be decorated as desired.
  16. For frosting: In a large bowl, cream together confectioners sugar and shortening until smooth.
  17. Gradually mix in milk and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth and stiff, about five minutes.
  18. Color with food coloring if desired.
 

I would highly recommend adding this cookbook to your holiday wish list. That same recipe can be adapted for many different types of cookies! It has definitely earned its keep on my bookshelf.

Do you have a favorite holiday cookie recipe? Please share your recipes or links here!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This post contains affiliate links.

Love this post? Here are a few other baking tutorials that might help you in the kitchen!

Easy Homemade Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread easy gluten-free homemade pumpkin bread

Gluten-Free Cake Mix Sugar Cookies Recipe from MomAdvice.com gluten-free cake mix sugar cookies (great for freezing!)

Mini Cannoli Cream Pastry Bites mini cannoli bites (pair with the Annie film for a fun family night idea!)

3-ingredient-star-cakes 3-ingredient star cakes

Chocolate Chiffon Cake with Peppermint Frosting chocolate chiffon cake with peppermint frosting

The Hidden Secrets to Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies from MomAdvice.com

Happy baking!

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Unique Gifts For the Man Who Has Everything

Sunday, November 3rd, 2019

Unique Gifts for the Man Who Has Everything from MomAdvice.com

You don’t need a lot of cash to snag these unique gifts for men. These gift ideas start at just $25 and I can guarantee that there is something for every man on your gift list. Use this list of our favorites when shopping for a man in your life.

I look forward to sharing a MomAdvice Gift Guide with you every holiday season. This year, I am dividing our gift guides into sections (men, women, kids, and more!) AND into budgets so that you can find the perfect gift for a special guy in your life.

I am SO excited to share these unique gifts with you and can’t wait to hear what you think of today’s selections.

Just as a reminder, if you are on a budget, I DO recommend that you sign up with Rakuten to do your shopping. This service will give you cash back on all your qualifying purchases.

If you want to read more about this shopping app, head here for an in-depth review of what Rakuten offers.

If you just want $25 and plan to get shopping, this should automatically deposit $25 in your account for your purchases(sorry- new customers only!).

Am I the only one that struggles to buy gifts for the men in my life? Today’s gift ideas for men are for your shopping…butttt for me too.

I had so much fun putting together the coolest gifts for the men in your life. Just as a reminder, MomAdvice participate in various affiliate marketing programs and anything purchased through our links (to retailer sites), will give us a small commision. This money is used to offset our site expenses and we are very grateful!

Are you ready to discovers some unique AND personal gifts for a man in your life?

Here are my gift suggestions for the man who has EVERYTHING!

Unique Gifts for Men Under $25

NOTE: You can click on the images to head directly to the source! Happy shopping!

Unique Gift Ideas for Men Under $25

https://rstyle.me/+pFE8EtaBlpgXT9vUdRCnKg birthstone guitar picks

Chillsner

thin rfid wallet

RFID Card Case (my father-in-law loves this!)

magnetic wrist tool band

Magnetic Wristband

beanie with built in bluetooth speakers

Beanie With Built in Bluetooth Speakers

Unique Gifts for Men

25 Outlaws Game (great if they love poker)

the cut buddy

The Cut Buddy Tool

Unique gifts for Men

Marathon Pint Glasses

bluetooth sleeping eye mask

Bluetooth Sleeping Eye Mask

wooden headphone stand

Wooden Headphone Stand

Unique Gifts for Men

The Right Tool

hands free task light

Hands-Free Task Light

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice

Survival Kit

brisket and meat trimmer

Brisket & Meat Trimmer

wireless bluetooth car diagnostic tool

Wireless Bluetooth Car Diagnostic Scanner

bedside essentials pocket

Bedside Essentials Pocket

insulated beer pint glasses

Insulated Freezable Pint Mugs

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice

Mind Your Business Workbook

personalized golf markers

Personalized Golf Ball Markers

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice

Razor Set

fire starter

5-in-1 Fire Starter Kit

grandmaster ping pong shirt

Ping Pong Grandmaster T-Shirt

rechargeable head lamp

Rechargeable Headlamp

anker wireless charger

Anker Wireless Charger

bike repair kit

Bike Repair Kit

best winter work gloves

Best Winter Work Gloves

automotive cup holder organizer

Automotive Cup Holder Organizer

laptop cooling pad

Laptop Cooling Pad

Recursion by Blake Crouch

Recursion by Blake Crouch (a favorite of my hubby’s)

I Think You're Wrong But I'm Listening

I Think You’re Wrong But I’m Listening (another fave of his!)

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Warm Socks

keysmart key holder

Keysmart Compact Key Holder

Unique Gifts for Men Under $30

Have a little more to spend? Here are my unique gifts for the man who has everything under $30!!

shiatsu massager

Shiatsu Massager (one of my personal faves!)

freedom of speech game

Freedom of Speech Game

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Gaming Mouse

waterproof laptop bag

Waterproof Laptop Backpack

e-tape measure

eTape Electronic Tape Measure

thompson tee

Thompson Tees (these really work!)

laptop stand

Laptop Notebook Stand

50 States Traveled Journal

50 States Travel Journal

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Beard Bib

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Tie Bar

rocketbook reusable notepad

Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook (I gave away SO many of these this year- big hit!)

esky key finder

Esky Key Finder

wireless wi-fi extender

Wireless Wi-Fi Range Extender

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

NPR Nerd Shirt

cold brew iced coffee maker

Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker

drill brush for car

Drill Brush For Car

Unique Gifts for Men Under $50 from MomAdvice.com

Looking for some creative gift ideas for men that are under $50? I have a feeling you will love this gathering!

the office clue game

stay cool joggers (these are my husband’s favorite)

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Desktop Charging Station

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Echo Dot Clock

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Pocket Projector

dynamic fleece joggers

Dynamic Fleece Joggers (several colors)

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Runner’s Light Gloves (these were a big winner with my hubby)

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Vinyl Record Dividers

philips norelco oneblade

Philips Norelco OneBlade

10-in-1 pillow

10-in-1 Pillow (I can’t rave enough about this)

heated ice scraper

Heated Ice Scraper

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Sherpa Henley 

blue snowball microphone

Blue Snowball Microphone

Book of the Month Club Gift Certificate

book of the month club gift certificate (starting at 3 months- this is my favorite thing every dang month!)

Unique Gifts for Men Under $100 from MomAdvice.com

Hey, big spender! Just kidding! If you are anything like my family, we prefer to buy one REALLY awesome gift instead of many smaller gifts. I hope you love these smart gift choices!

23 and Me Kit

23 and Me Kit (my kids are begging to do this and have a results reveal party on NYE)

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

UGG Ascot Lined Slippers (my husband loves his! already have a pair? get a pair of insoles for his stocking!)

waterproof bluetooth speaker

Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

auto detailing handheld steamer

Auto Detailing Handheld Steamer

Men's Unique Gifts

Heated Steering Wheel

Unique Gifts for Men

Wood Watch

Unique Gifts for Men from MomAdvice.com

Weekender Duffle Bag

Unique Gifts for Men

Rainfoil Packable Jacket

Stitch Fix for Men

Stitch Fix For Men (the cost depends on what you keep, but the styling fee is waived if you buy one item!! my husband LOVED this)

Wi-Fi Bookshelf Speaker

Wi-Fi Bookshelf Speaker

kindle paperwhite kindle paperwhite (linking to all the options, depending on your budget! I would also suggest checking here!!)

Would you rather DIY a unique gift? Here are a few posts that can help you make an incredible gift!

DIY Grilling Seasoning Mix mix up some grill seasoning mixes

diy jigsaw puzzle mat make a jigsaw puzzle mat and pair it with a good puzzle (we LOVED this one and this one this year)

9 unique gift ideas if your spouse has chronic pain

childhood book find out what their favorite childhood books were and give them as gifts (this was such a HUGE hit!)

PHEW! I hope that this inspires your gift-giving this year! Let me know if you got anything and what you thought!

Honest truth: I am always thankful to be a part of ANYONE’S holiday!

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This post contains affiliate links from RewardStyle. Thank you for supporting our website through your purchases. Unique Gift Ideas for the Man Who Has Everything from MomAdvice.com

Unique Gift Ideas for the Man Who Has Everything from MomAdvice.com

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath

Tuesday, October 29th, 2019

How to Make a Yarn Pom Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

I know everyone is very different about their decorating.

In my house, I try to only decorate with items that I have handmade for the holidays and that really mean something to our family.

Our home doesn’t have a lot of storage so I have to be selective about what we carry over from year to year.

In a nod to my yarn and knitting habit, this year the house is decorated in pom-poms for the season.

I created this easy yarn pom-pom & ornament garland and I got out my yarn pom-pom trees that I had created, to decorate a shelf in our kitchen.

Other than that, we keep it fairly simple with fresh greenery that doesn’t take up valuable storage.

Each year I dedicate my Black Friday to one craft that I have always wanted to try.

When I first started knitting it was all about finding projects out of my comfort zone.

This year though,  I decided to tackle a crafting to-do that I have wanted to do for many, many years…it is a pom-pom wreath for our front door.

Just as my autumn burlap wreath carried me through from Halloween to Thanksgiving, this pom-pom wreath in cream has all of the magic of the holiday season, but can be carried over into the spring months due to its neutral tones.

This craft can’t be whipped up quick, but the reward is great.

In fact, I smiled today as I pulled up to my front door.

Just seeing it and knowing the labor of love that went into creating it makes my heart truly happy.

If you are a maker, you know the joy that comes with the completion of a craft project you have always wanted to do and then have done it well. It’s unlike any other feeling.

I also ADORE when you share your pictures of crafts that you have done from our site.

If you are looking for a little color on your door, check out this INCREDIBLE wreath that Christy made. 

I mean, how gorgeous is that??

Thank you, Christy, for letting me share your beautiful wreath with my readers.

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

Supplies Needed (don’t forget to use your Rakuten app to get money back on your craft purchases!):

1- 18″ straw wreath (leave it wrapped in the plastic)

5-6 skeins of Lion Brand Hometown USA Los Angeles Tan Yarn (you can also check for price comparisons HERE)

Pins

Large Clover Pom-Pom Maker (we are using the blue one)- be sure to check here for a price comparison

Scissors

wreath door hanger

Directions

How to Use a Pom-Pom Maker

How to Use a Pom-Pom Maker1. Following the pictures above, create your pom-poms using your Clover Pom-Pom Maker.

You can create these and pin as you go to see how many you end up needing for your wreath.

2. After you make your pom-poms (which will take one million years- don’t say I did not warn you), you can begin pinning them on your wreath form.

Make sure that you leave your straw wreath in the plastic.

Using pins, pin your pom-poms with two to three pins each and then fluff them.

You will want to start adding a pom-pom in the center, then on one side, then on the other side.

Continue stacking them this way, next to each other, making sure that the form is covered.

No need to make these extremely tight so you can make sure that your pom-poms really fluff up and stand to attention.

3. Continue adding pom-poms, pinning, and fluffing until your entire wreath is covered.

Once you hang your wreath, pull on pom-poms to see if everything is secure and add any pins as needed.

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

I hope this wreath makes you as happy as it has made me.

I couldn’t be happier to have tackled this project over my Black Friday weekend and I hope it can brighten a corner in your home too!

this post contains affiliate links

Love this tutorial? Here are a few more of my favorites on the site!

how to make a pom-pom and ornament garland

yarn pom-pom & ornament garland

DIY Chunky Knit Hygge Blanket how to knit a chunky knit hygge blanket with fur pom poms

yarn pom-pom flower bouquets

how to make yarn pom pom trees

yarn pom-pom trees

how to make an autumn burlap wreath from momadvice.com

autumn burlap wreath

how to make a burlap wreath

easy burlap wreath

diy apple fall wreath

fabric flower wreath

fabric scrap wreath & fabric scrap garland

how to paint laminate wood

tour all the winter crafts in my holiday home

What fun crafts do you do with yarn pom-poms? Let me know in the links below!

How to Make a Yarn Pom Pom Wreath from MomAdvice.com

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Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)

Monday, October 14th, 2019
Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)

This ghost cake is a fun and spooky Halloween cake that even your kids can make it!  Using store-bought ingredients, you can have a Halloween treat in minutes.

If you are anything like me, you are already on the hunt for easy Halloween ideas!

Today’s easy food craft is for a festive Halloween cake that you can whip up quickly to celebrate with your kids, fellow trick-or-treaters or to add to your Halloween party spread.

This can be made for under $20 and NO COOKING is required!

Can I get an AMEN?

If you are anything like me, you are already on the hunt for easy Halloween ideas!

Today’s easy food craft is for a festive Halloween cake that you can whip up quickly to celebrate with your kids, fellow trick-or-treaters or to add to your Halloween party spread.

This can be made for under $20 and NO COOKING is required!

Can I get an AMEN?

What if I Don’t Want to Spend $20 on Halloween Cake?

As you know, I’m pretty darn frugal, so I want to share a tip that might help you at your store.

Be sure to check the rear of your store (over by the dairy section usually) to see if there are any reduced to sell bakery items on a rolling cart.

It is there where I often spy prepared cakes and doughnuts that are perfect for sharing with guests or for rounding out a meal together with friends.

If you check there first, it is possible you might be able to score these treats for a fraction of the price that I paid.

I promise to not be jealous.

How Can I Make This Treat Gluten-free?

Welp, you know that gluten-free cake isn’t going to be an affordable treat.

Oh, the price ding on removing wheat!

Ouch.

Did you know that you can purchase gluten-free donut holes in the freezer section of many supermarkets.

Is it just me or are you scared to pay a million dollars for gluten-free snacks because you got burned on a past purchase?

I am learning that the best move is to check the reviews before making anymore snack purchases. Here’s the page on gluten-free doughnut reviews to help you make your best decision.

Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)

How Can I Save Money at My Local Gluten-free Bakery?

If you aren’t using Groupons, you are missing out on some free money. Anytime that we eat or do anything local, we check to see if there are any deals on things like this. You just never know when the new up and coming bakery might be looking for a fresh way to promote their business.

What Can I Substitute for Cake if I’m Gluten-Free?

I found this useful gluten-free directory to help you find a gluten-free bakery near you.

Gluten-free cakes can be expensive though so I recommend you bake a cake yourself. I have some super easy gluten-free cake recipes to share with you that might just make the most perfect cakes.

I promise, these gluten-free cakes are as easy to put together as any other cake because I rely upon cake mixes for their creation.

Here are a few that our family has loved!

Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)

Doughnut Hole Ghost Cake from MomAdvice.com

Supplies Needed

Pro Crafter Tip: Don’t forget to download the Rakuten app to save some money through their links to retailer sites!

1 prepared cake

1 container of powdered sugar doughnut holes (I had enough in an assortment pack)

Roll of white tulle (over by the party/wedding favor supplies)

Black Decorating Icing small pieces cut off a stripe of candy corn, candy eyes, or small Halloween candy (like Mini M&M’s) for your eyes.

1 prepared cake

1 container of powdered sugar donut holes (I had enough in an assortment pack)

Roll of white tulle (over by the party/wedding favor supplies)

Black Decorating Icing (over by the cake decorating supplies/crafts), small pieces cut off a stripe of candy corn, candy eyes, or small Halloween candy (like Mini M&M’s) for your eyes.

Cookie Sticks(over by the cake decorating supplies/crafts)

White Twine

Scissors

Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)

 

Instructions

1. On a rimmed cookie sheet, insert the cookie stick into your doughnut hole.

2. Cut out two squares of tulle, approximately the same size, and angle them slightly. Fold them over your doughnut hole. Secure with a little white twine, making sure to bring the tulle down snugly over the top of the doughnut hole to make a level surface for your piping.

3. Pipe two eyes and a mouth on your doughnut hole. I found that getting the icing a little warm helped make the piping easier so keep that in mind!

4. Stick your ghosts on top of your cake.

Done.

How easy is that?

Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)
Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)
Best No-Bake Ghost Cake Idea (Fast and Easy)

This cake was such a hit and I loved that it adds a homemade touch to a store-bought treat!

As you know, I’m pretty darn frugal, so I want to share a tip that might help you at your store.

Be sure to check the rear of your store (over by the dairy section usually) to see if there are any reduced to sell bakery items on a rolling cart.

It is there where I often spy prepared cakes and doughnuts that are perfect for sharing with guests or for rounding out a meal together with friends.

If you check there first, it is possible you might be able to score these treats for a fraction of the price that I paid.

I promise to not be jealous.

I look forward to sharing more fun Halloween ideas with you in the upcoming month and hope you love this festive (and easy) treat idea!

Don’t miss these other great ideas from MomAdvice.com:

DIY Thumbtack Pumpkins from MomAdvice.com

DIY Thumbtack Pumpkins

How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies

How to Paint Pumpkins With Acrylic Paints from MomAdvice.com

Painting Pumpkin with Acrylic Paints

//www.momadvice.com/post/easy-burlap-wreath-tutorial

Autumn Burlap Wreath

Easy Homemade Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

 

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