Holiday Bark Recipe

Baking during Christmas is a must, but when procrastination enters the picture, there's a little recipe that's actually the easiest way to 'bake' without actually using the oven. Hello Holiday Bark. You are awesome.

Typically, my family makes a variety of cookies - everything from homemade cut-outs, hershey blossoms, crescent apricot short cakes and snickerdoodles. This year, Christmas sort of snuck up on us and finding time to bake / shop for ingredients was just another task on the to-do list. (Yes, I finished my shopping. It only took me 2 days before Christmas. This is a no-judgement zone.) 

When you don't have enough time or don't feel like slaving away in the kitchen, definitely give these a go. This bark recipe is actually Christmas-crack, if there was such a thing. A sweet and salty mix of pretzel sticks, peanuts, M&Ms and milk chocolate - it's a new staple to our list of Christmas goodies. If your waistline gets a wee-bit larger, blame the recipe - not me.

Ingredients:

Pretzel Sticks
M&Ms
Peanuts
Milk Chocolate
Wax Paper

Directions:

Line a baking sheet with wax paper.

Melt milk chocolate.

Pour pretzel sticks, M&Ms and peanuts on baking sheet.

Once chocolate is completely melted, pour over baking sheet and mix well.

Let sit for at least 4 hours.

Notes from the chef: Let's be real, I kinda just winged this recipe. The first time I made it, I used 1 full bag of milk chocolate morsels and poured it over the mix. I wanted more pretzels and peanuts so I added more - it's really up to you how much proportions you want of each ingredient. Let your creative baker-juices flow.
 

Holiday Gift Guide

Scarves are my favorite way to transform an outfit - they're also my go-to for gifts for both guys + girls.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s time for holiday shopping. Gag. I mean YAY! I love shopping don’t get me wrong, but when it comes to holiday shopping I always seem to procrastinate. Um, can anyone say December 23rd shopper? ::Raises Hand:: 

In the midst of the season, I’ve vowed to not be a procrastinator (my college-self would probably be pretty happy to hear this) and to take on Christmas shopping in full force – over a month in advance.

Here are a few of my favorite gifts for ladies, men, best friends and everything in between. 

What are some of your favorite holiday gifts? 

Old Navy Plaid Flannel Scarf

Anything + everything gold and dainty is  my favorite. I'm a big fan of Etsy and honestly could search on there for hours. Dainty/personalized jewelry is the perfect gift for your girlfriend, sister or your best friends - they're the ultimate every day piece and looks effortless when layered with other gold pieces.

 

Patagonia Men's Synchilla Recycled Snap-T Pullover

For me, guys are the hardest to buy for when it comes to holiday shopping. Amiright or? I will say casual clothing is a plus, and they really dig it.

I Whale Always Love You Coffee Mug

I'm a sucker for all mugs, I'm especially loving the Sharpie ones. This is super easy to recreate as a DIY version or if you want to get one created, just visit Etsy. 

DIY
Need: Oil-based Paint Sharpie, Mug
1. Write message on mug
2. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes + let cool completely.

Essie Nail Polish | Big Spender

Nail polish is such an easy (and cheap) stocking stuffer. Hint hint.
-Love, 
A Nail Polish Addict

Birchbox Subscription

How awesome would it be to gift someone with Birchbox subscription?! Amazing-ness.