When dinner can’t wait, Tempo is our go-to meal kit. An extension of Home Chef, the brand offers a curated menu of about 25 rotating meals each week, plus add-ons like breakfast items, snacks, desserts and drinks. Meals can be filtered by preferences such as high-protein, fiber-rich, calorie-conscious and GLP-1–balanced options.

Tempo’s website is refreshingly easy to use, with clear pricing, nutrition details and add-ons displayed upfront. While we didn’t use the app during testing, it shares the Home Chef app—which boasts a 4.8-star rating on Apple—and allows users to browse weekly menus, order meals, plan ahead and personalize dietary preferences like keto-friendly or vegetarian.

The service delivers weekly on the day you choose, with meals arriving chilled (not frozen) in insulated packaging with ice packs. It’s also highly flexible: you can skip deliveries, switch between weekly, biweekly or monthly shipments and view menus up to five weeks in advance. Delivery dates can be adjusted per order, or you can change your default delivery day altogether.

Overall, we were genuinely impressed by both the convenience and flavor. During testing for our Tempo review, I especially appreciated that the meals’ ‘best by’ dates were staggered, which took away the pressure to eat everything at once.

Most meals follow a simple formula (protein, vegetable and grain), but several standout dishes, particularly the meat and seafood options, deliver bold, satisfying flavors. Each single-serving meal takes just two to three minutes in the microwave and averages around 500 calories. Oven-heating instructions are included, too, though the 30-minute cook time somewhat defeats Tempo’s fast, ready-to-eat appeal.

Price: Starting at $10.98 per serving | Shipping cost: $10.99 | Availability: Contiguous U.S. (with a few exceptions) | Menu options: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks | Frequency: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 or 16-plus meals per week | Freezing: Not recommended

Best Variety

CookUnity

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With more than 300 menu items, CookUnity makes it hard to get bored. These chef-prepared, heat-and-eat meals deliver far more variety and better flavor than anything you’ll find in the frozen aisle.

Product tester Annamarie Higley was immediately impressed by the menu. “I had a really hard time choosing,” she says in her review, thanks to the sheer range of options. Meals can be filtered by dozens of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, seafood, low-carb, keto, paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-sodium, high-protein and under-600-calorie options. The cuisines are diverse, and the dishes feel genuinely creative.

CookUnity also rolls out limited-time, seasonal meals throughout the year, like turkey and stuffing for Thanksgiving or holiday ham with mashed potatoes. As you browse, each meal clearly displays star ratings, spice level and calorie count.

The website is modern and visually appealing, though it can feel slightly information-heavy. A standout feature is the ability to save favorites. The app mirrors the site and includes an especially useful “Meal Preferences” section, where you can create additional profiles. Annamarie added one for her boyfriend so he could customize his own likes, dislikes and dietary needs—an excellent option for households ordering together.

Meals arrive refrigerated, not frozen, and are typically packed the day of delivery. Packaging is lighter, with minimal ice packs, so use-by dates (especially for seafood) aren’t far out.

The delivery tracking is impressively detailed. “It was a tracking experience like I’ve never had,” Annamarie says. She received real-time updates, could see how many stops remained and even track the driver’s location, Uber-style, with options to call or message if needed.

Each meal includes two heating options: “Chef Instructions” for the oven and “Fast Instructions” for the microwave, with cook times varying by appliance.

If you want restaurant-quality meals with standout variety and creativity, CookUnity delivers. As a bonus, meals can be frozen to preserve them longer if needed.

Price: Starting at $11.09 per serving | Shipping cost: Around $10 (may be more, depending on location) | Availability: Major U.S. regions, excluding states like Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and West Virginia, plus some areas in Wyoming, Colorado and Nebraska | Menu options: Dinner, lunch, breakfast, treats, drinks | Frequency: 4, 6, 8, 12, or 16 meals per week | Freezing: Optional

Best Tasting

HelloFresh

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One of the original meal kit brands, HelloFresh, recently revamped its lineup to include premade meals alongside its classic ingredient-based kits. You can now mix and match traditional meal kits, oven-ready options and microwaveable heat-and-eat meals all in one order.

Most of HelloFresh’s ready-made offerings are bowl-style meals (think rice or pasta base with protein and veggies mixed in), but we found them surprisingly tasty and filling. They’re especially well-suited for quick lunches at the office or post-gym meals. That said, the menu isn’t quite robust enough to replace every weeknight dinner, since it leans heavily on bowls rather than more composed plates with distinct sides and proteins.

From the refreshed menu, the vegetarian curry bowl stood out as a favorite—flavorful, hearty and satisfying. The Southwest Chicken Bowl was solid, though standard.

Quality varied slightly from dish to dish. We loved the flavor, texture and presentation of the Tomatillo Pulled Pork with Rice, but some of the chicken bowls didn’t quite hit the same mark.

Overall, we were impressed by the packaging and ingredient quality in our HelloFresh box. From ease and convenience to flavor and reliability, the expanded HelloFresh lineup is tough to beat, especially for families with young kids or picky eaters who want approachable flavors and fast, no-fuss meals.

Price: Typically starts around $10 per serving | Shipping cost: $10.99 (may vary depending on location and meal plan) | Availability: Contiguous U.S. and select areas of Alaska and Hawaii | Menu options: Lunch, dinner, meal kits, oven-ready meals, heat-and-eat meals, smoothies | Frequency: 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 meals per week for 2, 3, 4 or 6 people | Freezing: HelloFresh does not mention freezing meals, but people have done it with some success

Best Health-conscious

Factor

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Factor offers fresh, never-frozen meals that bring chef-crafted dinners to the table in under 10 minutes. Designed for wellness-minded eaters, the nutrient-dense meals beat the drive-through and feature clear nutrition labels for tracking calories, macros, protein and more.

Meals arrive chilled and ready for the fridge—just reheat and eat. Factor caters to a range of lifestyles, including keto, vegan and plant-based, making it a great option for those who want to eat well without the time commitment of meal prep.

Product tester Annamarie Higley tried a week of Factor meals for her review and was impressed by both the speed and flavor. Ingredients tasted fresh and high quality, with many dishes passing for homemade.

The menu boasts 112 rotating meals each week, though many follow a familiar “healthy plate” formula of protein, vegetables and grains. Reliable and satisfying, some may not find them as adventurous as some of the competitors.

Add-ons are a standout. After choosing main meals, you can select from breakfast bundles, cold-pressed juices, no-heat lunches, keto cookies and much, much more.

Factor allows filtering by dietary needs, such as vegan, high-protein and flexitarian, with spicy and premium meals clearly labeled alongside calorie and carb counts.

The website experience could be smoother. Our tester noticed that meals were automatically added to her cart, so double-check your order before checkout. That said, the app is much more user-friendly. Some of the displays are a bit busy, but it doesn’t feel quite as confusing or distracting as the website.

Overall, Factor impressed us with its speed, flavor and ingredient quality. Despite minor delivery hiccups, responsive customer service and consistent meals make it a time-saving choice for health-focused eaters.

Price: Starts at $12.49 per serving | Shipping cost: $10.99 | Availability: Contiguous U.S. and parts of Canada (menu may vary by location) | Menu options: Lunch, dinner, breakfast, snacks, drinks, desserts, sides, plain proteins, protein powder and frozen foods | Frequency: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 or 18 meals per week | Freezing: Not recommended

Best for Kids

Little Spoon

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If you have a toddler at home, you’ve probably lost a few mealtime battles with the world’s pickiest eater. We’ve been there. It’s frustrating to cook a healthy meal only for it to go untouched. Little Spoon helps take the pressure off on busy weeknights, or whenever you don’t want to spend time prepping food no one will eat—and it’s one of our favorite meal kits for families.

My toddler and I tried the Bitables—Little Spoon’s transitional finger foods—and they were an instant hit. Honestly, Little Spoon was a lifesaver when my one-year-old started solids. The meals were ready in minutes, easy to pick up and chew, and made with ingredients I felt good about. Favorites included the hidden-veggie chicken nuggets (with kale, carrots and cauliflower) and the pancakes with chicken sausage and sweet potatoes.

Little Spoon is known for clean, rigorously tested ingredients and recipes developed with pediatricians and dietitians. The product lineup is broad. Little Spoon offers baby cereals, puffs, and purées, as well as toddler meals, snacks and even big-kid lunches. You can also filter by dietary needs like dairy-free, gluten-free and nut-free.

Heating meals is fast and simple. The quickest option is microwaving the tray as is, though those who prefer can transfer the food to an oven-safe dish and warm it in the oven instead.

The Puffs and Veggie Loops passed both the toddler and parent taste tests. They genuinely taste better than many toddler snacks we’ve tried and are made with non-GMO ingredients, hidden veggies and superfoods, little to no added sugar and zero artificial flavors. Bonus: many Little Spoon snacks are available on Amazon and Target—no subscription required.

Price: Meals start at $6.49 per serving | Shipping cost: $10 | Availability: Continental U.S. | Menu options: Lunch, dinner, breakfast, snacks, baby food, baby cereal, pouches and puffs | Frequency: Choose what you get every two weeks or shop individual products | Freezing: Optional

Others We Tested

• Blue Apron: Like HelloFresh, Blue Apron is a household name and longtime leader in the meal kit space. Best known for its chef-designed recipes and traditional meal kits, the brand also introduced Dish, a line of prepared, heat-and-eat meals. While the packaging notes that ingredients were “previously handled frozen for your protection”—a detail that may give some shoppers pause—it also allows you to eat or freeze the meals within five days of delivery. We enjoyed a handful of Dish meals during testing, but the service was unavailable for a period of time due to a product labeling issue. However, it’s currently back up and running and certainly worth a try if you’re looking for a freezable option.
• Sunbasket: Sunbasket offers a mix of healthy meal kits, semi-prepared options and premade meals. Its recipes are developed by chefs and registered dietitians and highlight organic produce alongside responsibly sourced meat and seafood. You can set dietary preferences upfront, and while we didn’t use it during testing, user reviews note that the companion app makes menu selection and delivery scheduling easy. While we were big fans of Sunbasket’s meal kits, the premade meal we tested fell short, with tough meat and flat flavor.
• Tovala: Tovala delivers minimal-prep meals that feel more homemade than standard heat-and-eat options, thanks to its smart oven and foolproof QR code system. While we preferred the flavor and convenience of some competitors, like Tempo, Tovala is a solid pick for anyone who wants fast meals without relying on a microwave. Just keep in mind that the menu can feel limited over time. For more details, see our in-depth Tovala review.
• Purple Carrot: If plant-based meals are your go-to, Purple Carrot offers 100% vegan meal kits and ready-to-eat options. Meal kits come in two- or four-serving portions, with three or four meals per week, while single-serve premade meals are available in six-, eight- or 10-meal plans. While we appreciated Purple Carrot’s creative, plant-forward menu, several other brands offer equally strong vegetarian (and even vegan) options. We were also disappointed by the inflexible delivery schedule and lack of clear pricing transparency.

What to Consider When Shopping for a Prepared Meal Service

When choosing a prepared meal service, Pallian suggests considering:

• Ingredients and labels: Look for clear ingredient lists, no-sodium-added options, and reduced-sodium choices to support overall health.
• Nutritional balance: Prioritize meals with legumes, high-fiber vegetables and whole grains over those high in saturated fat or sodium.
• Portion sizes: Ensure servings match energy needs, with guidance tailored to children, weight management, or individual goals.
• Heating instructions: Clear directions improve food safety and confidence in the kitchen.
• Menu variety: A wide range of vegetables, proteins and cultural flavors encourages dietary diversity—but variety should be nutritionally meaningful. Vegetarian meals, for example, should include legumes and at least two servings of vegetables.

Also, factor in your budget, dietary restrictions, health goals, and delivery flexibility to find the service that fits your lifestyle.

How We Found the Best Prepared Meal Kits

This list is based on our sampling of each of these prepared meal delivery services. We’ve tested dozens of meal kit delivery services at Taste of Home over the years, well beyond what you see here.

While considering the taste and flavors of each premade meal, we also weighed other criteria. This included value, freshness, reheating methods and instructions, recipe variety and more. We also had multiple editors and product testers sample each service to get a variety of feedback and opinions for each brand.

Additionally, many of the meal kits we’ve tested over the years have received feedback from dietitian Nancy Snyder, who has evaluated the legitimacy of recipe labels.

Prepared Meal Delivery FAQ

What is the best prepared meal delivery service?

The best prepared meal service depends on your dietary needs and budget, but we chose Tempo by Home Chef as our top pick for premade meals due to its convenience, simplicity, consistent quality and overall nutritional value. The meals are also tasty, though personal preferences will naturally vary.

What is the healthiest prepared meal delivery service?

The healthiest prepared meal service for you depends on your dietary goals and needs. Generally speaking, many find Factor meals to be relatively healthy and balanced.

How do you reheat a prepared meal?

Most prepared meals can be reheated in the microwave, but follow the specific instructions for each meal, as they can vary even within the same brand. Use a food thermometer to ensure the proper internal temperature. Some meals can also be reheated in the oven.

How much do prepared meal services cost?

Typically, prepared meal services cost around $10 to $15 per serving (or individual meal).

Why You Should Trust Us

At Taste of Home, every meal delivery service review—including all premade meal kits above—is backed by hands-on testing. Our testers’ needs, preferences and budgets closely align with those of the average shopper.

Shopping Editor Mary Henn has years of experience writing about food and testing products. As a working mom of a toddler, she’s always looking for ways to save time in the kitchen, making her the perfect person to test prepared meal delivery services. Because we personally test every service we review, readers can trust our recommendations.

We also consulted Jennifer Pallian, BSc, RD, a food scientist and recipe developer, who shared tips on what to look for when choosing premade meals. Her advice and expertise have been featured in Healthline, Eating Well, Men’s Health, Food Network, USA Today, CBS News and more.

The post The 5 Best Prepared Meal Delivery Services, According to Taste of Home Editors appeared first on Taste of Home.

That said, the hot drink market isn’t the only place we’re seeing these naturally perky ingredients popping up. With options like Little Saints drinks—formulated with adaptogens and functional mushrooms—folks can now swap their sugary canned mocktails and de-alcoholized wines with better-for-you beverages just in time for Dry January.

To see how well they hold up to other options, we tried several of the brand’s botanical offerings ahead of Dry January. Spoiler alert: we weren’t prepared to be this impressed!

We Tried It

Little Saints Drinks

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What are Little Saints spirits and cocktails?

Little Saints—which appeared on Shark Tank in 2024—is a brand built on the idea that alcohol doesn’t equal a good drink. These zero sugar, non-alcoholic cocktails and spirits use functional mushrooms and botanical extracts to simulate the experience of enjoying a craft cocktail, without the hangover.

While the drinks offer all the benefits of lion’s mane and reishi mushrooms, they also surprisingly lack any detectable mushroom flavor. The secret lies within a proprietary processing method that extracts the beta Glucans from the shrooms. The flavorless extract then goes into the drinks alongside other beneficial extracts. And as an added bonus, the drinks are also low in calories thanks to a monk fruit juice concentrate sweetener.

How We Tested Little Saints Drinks

Little Saints drinks come in two forms: ready-to-drink canned mocktails and nonalcoholic spirits meant for mixing. We secured several samples of both sipping options to best test the scope of flavors.

Canned Mocktails

Little Spirits’ catalogue offers an array of mocktails in familiar flavors, but with a botanical twist for added benefits. We tried a bundle including the negroni spritz, spicy margarita, pink grapefruit paloma and—my favorite—ginger mule. The brand also offers a few other options, including a mojito, espresso martini (complete with a dash of caffeine) and, of course, their spin on a classic old fashioned.

In terms of taste, I’m pretty impressed with Little Saints drinks. All the canned cocktails are sippable, distinct and flavorful without any filler ingredients, sugar or artificial sweeteners. The monk fruit brings a touch of sweetness while still keeping the calorie count low. Each ingredient feels intentional, and the botanicals and functional mushroom extracts give the drinks a natural taste that doesn’t lean too earthy.

Negroni Spritz

The first mocktail I tried was the Little Spirits’ negroni spritz, which boasts the bittersweet Italian aperitif flavor the cocktail is known for. This one also tasted the most like a traditional gin cocktail to me, thanks to the bitterness. In addition to botanicals and mushrooms, the drink also includes hints of bitter orange, gentian root, cinnamon, citrus rinds and lavender. Altogether, the flavors create a delightfully bitter bite with a touch of sweetness.

Grapefruit Paloma

The grapefruit paloma was also a winner, thanks to its hit of acidic grapefruit. Like the negroni, this option also contains citrus rinds and lavender for a slightly bitter aftertaste. However, the grapefruit and lime lend a touch of brightness that cut through it all—and it works so well. What I really love about these first two mocktails is the subtlety of flavors which harmonize together seamlessly.

Spicy Margarita

The spicy margarita flavor brings one word to mind: zippy! With dominant lime and jalapeño flavors, it’s definitely more adventurous than the others I tasted. My husband tried this first and noted that he didn’t detect much spice, but I disagree. While the drink definitely leans more lime-forward, the flavor opens with a slight kick that gives it a bit of an edge without veering too much into “spicy.”

Ginger Mule

As mentioned previously, this was my favorite of the canned cocktails I tried. I’m already well acquainted with ginger mules, so this little can had a lot to prove. To me, this was akin to a ginger mule seltzer in the best way.

It’s satisfying and bubbly, but without the saccharine sweetness found in most ginger cocktails. This is due to the use of ginger extracts rather than ginger beer, lending to a cleaner-feeling sipping experience. We also see familiar elements of lime, citrus rinds and lavender botanicals, which help balance the flavor.

Spirits

The bottled spirits come in three flavors: St. Ember, St. Juniper and St. Oak. My favorite aspect of the bottle spirits is that they add a dash of personality to my homemade mocktails, and they’re also pretty good on their own. The blend of botanicals and mushroom extracts mingle together to create distinctive flavors. In this way, they effectively fill the void left by alcohol.

They don’t contain any artificial alcohol flavors, either. Just mimicry via natural ingredients—something I personally appreciate. Each of the spirits presents the benefits of functional mushrooms in a way that also makes them feel just as special as an aged whiskey on a cocktail cart.

St. Oak

I’ll admit—I’ve never been much of a “whiskey on the rocks” person. But if whiskey tasted as delightful as St. Oak, maybe I would be! To me, this spirit is very sippable. There’s no burn like alcohol. It’s smokey, woody and complex without any fakeness or saccharine sweetness. I enjoyed it both over ice and mixed with ginger beer. Bonus: it smells genuinely delicious, almost like a gourmand scent with vanilla and caramel notes.

St. Juniper

Looking for something that veers more sharp and citrusy for a faux gin and tonic? St. Juniper is an energetic and personality-filled spirit boasting juniper, birch, cardamom, angelica root, coriander, fresh cucumber and citrus notes. Capsicum derived from peppers gives it a bit of a “burn,” but nothing off-putting. I’d call St. Juniper crisp, fresh, slightly spicy with bitter end notes.

St. Ember

Another option utilizing capsicum from peppers, St. Ember tastes like a close cousin of mezcal. It’s admittedly my least favorite, but I’m not a fan of Mezcal, which I find too smokey. That said, the “spiciness” of the cardamom balances well with the palo santo (what I’m assuming the woody hint is that I’m not partial to). If you like earthier flavors, this is a good addition to your NA bar cart.

This is also a spirit that gives back—1% of the proceeds from every bottle of St. Ember supports reforestation efforts.

Pros

• Canned cocktails are delicious and ready to drink
• No detectable “buzz” feeling
• No imitation “alcohol” flavor
• Clean, beneficial ingredients
• Zero sugar
• Low calorie

Cons

• Pricey at around $5/can for a 12-pack and $50/bottle
• Some flavors may be too bitter for some

Product Comparison: Little Saints vs. Brez

Both Little Saints drinks and Brez beverages offer adaptogen-addled sips aided by functional mushrooms. At a near-identical price point, the biggest difference between the brands are the available flavors. While Little Saints aims to mimic well-loved cocktails, Brez offers three flavors that are more akin to fruity tonics: lemon elderflower, strawberry mango and cherry chamomile.

Additionally, Brez offers CBD and THC-infused drinks and spirits for a detectable buzz whereas Little Spirits sticks to functional mushrooms and botanical benefits.

Final Verdict

Giving up alcohol, whether for personal or medical reasons, can be really difficult for some. I can’t say I noticed much in the way of “buzz” benefits while enjoying Little Saints drinks, aside from perhaps a slightly elevated mood thanks to the reishi.

However, Little Saints doesn’t purport to recreate the “high” of alcohol. Instead, the brand created drinks that have the same complex flavors as traditional spirits and cocktails. To me—and many sober-curious folks out there—that’s truly special. And if you get to enjoy an elevated feeling from the functional mushrooms, that’s just a bonus!

Where to Buy

Little Saints drinks are available both on the brand’s website and on Amazon. You can purchase the cans for around $60 for a 12-pack, or about $5 per can. The spirits are available at around $50 a bottle for just over 24 ounces. That said, you do enjoy discounts when you buy in bulk—and you’d definitely pay a comparable price for artisan alcoholic spirits!

We Tried It

Little Saints Drinks

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FAQ

Does Little Saints give you a buzz?

No, Little Saints drinks are not designed to give an artificial buzz. They include traces of alcohol, but not enough to detect. An alcohol content of less than 0.5% ABV makes them more similar to kombucha than a beer. They also contain no THC, so they’re great for the fully sober crowd.

Why Trust Us

As Taste of Home’s resident food and drink expert, I’m always trying the newest and most popular treats. While I’m not fully dedicated to the sober lifestyle, my husband has been alcohol-free for over a decade. As such, I’ve tried many of the most popular (and even a few under-the-radar) nonalcoholic drink options available. My tasting specialties include nonalcoholic beer and hop water (I come from a family of brewers, after all), but botanical-based drinks also please my practiced NA palate.

The post Mushroom Drinks Are Replacing Alcohol—And They Offer Tons of Benefits appeared first on Taste of Home.

Here are the stores open on Christmas that you’re most likely to visit—but be sure to check your location’s hours before heading out.

Grocery Stores Open on Christmas

• ACME: Some locations of this East Coast grocery store will be open with reduced hours.
• Albertsons: Select locations will be open on Christmas, but hours will vary by location.
• Giant: Most locations will be open on Christmas between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• Safeway: Some Safeway locations will be open on Christmas, so check your local store for hours.
• Vons: Von’s locations that are open on Christmas Day will have reduced hours.

Convenience Stores and Gas Stations Open on Christmas

• 7-Eleven: Most 7-Elevens continue the usual 24/7 schedule on Christmas Day, though some will operate with reduced hours.
• Circle K: Most should be open 24/7 on Christmas, like every other day of the year.
• Cumberland Farms: Most Cumby’s stores will be open Christmas Day, with exact hours varying from location to location. Some open stores plan to give away hot coffee and cocoa on Christmas!
• Sheetz: Open 24/7, this store stays open even on holidays.
• Speedway: Most Speedway locations will stay open 24/7 as usual.
• Wawa: This is another 24/7 chain that doesn’t close for Christmas. (Maybe that’s a reason why people are obsessed with Wawa.)
• Weigel’s: You can rely on this 24/7 convenience store to remain open on Christmas Day.

Drugstores Open on Christmas

• CVS: Many CVS stores will have shorter hours on Christmas. Most will be open between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
• Walgreens: Walgreens locations are open on Christmas Day. Some will be open 24/7, per usual, and those that aren’t generally open 24/7 may have limited hours. Pharmacy hours will vary, so call ahead if you need a script filled.
• Duane Reade: The sister store to Walgreens, Duane Reade follows the same holiday hours. Double-check with your local store for location-specific hours.

Drive-Thrus Open on Christmas

• Caribou Coffee: Most locations will be open, but many will operate with reduced and varied hours.
• Burger King: Hours will vary for this burger joint’s locations.
• Dunkin’ Donuts: On Christmas Day, grab a cup of joe and your favorite treat. Store hours vary by location, so check the hours before heading out.
• McDonald’s: Select locations of this fast-food franchise are open on Christmas Day.
• Starbucks: Stop by one of the select open Starbucks locations for a holiday drink or last-minute gifts like coffee mugs. You’ll want to call your local cafe for its exact hours.

You should be able to find everything your family needs for a merry Christmas! If you’re still stuck, try these last-minute holiday recipes ready in 30 minutes.

Stores Closed on Christmas Day

The list of retailers closed on Christmas may seem longer than usual, but many major chains have been closing for the holiday for decades. Here’s a partial list of stores that will be closed this December 25th:

• Aldi
• BJ’s
• Costco
• Dollar General
• Dollar Tree
• Family Dollar
• Food Lion
• H-E-B
• Home Depot
• IKEA
• Jewel-Osco
• Kohl’s
• Kroger stores
• Lowe’s
• Publix
• Ralphs
• Randalls
• Sam’s Club
• Save A Lot
• Shaw’s
• ShopRite
• Sprouts Farmers Market
• Stop & Shop
• Target
• Trader Joe’s
• Tom Thumb
• Walmart
• Wegmans
• Winn-Dixie
• Whole Foods

If you can’t find any grocery stores open on Christmas near you, check out our collection of common baking substitutions and homemade pantry staples that’ll help you out in a pinch.

The post The Stores Open and Closed on Christmas Day 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

True to form, as someone who is chronically late, I missed the peak of the sourdough craze. But heading into 2026, I’ve developed a newfound fascination with (and respect for) the process.

Catherine Ward, Prep Kitchen Manager at Taste of Home and resident sourdough expert, is a weekly (sometimes more) sourdough baker who dutifully feeds her starters at least once a week and uses every bit, including the discard. I picked her brain while embarking on this new endeavor, and with the help of a Nordic Ware sourdough kit, I had actual loaves on the counter within days.

Here’s how it went using a sourdough kit with literally zero prior bread-baking experience.

I Tried It

Nordic Ware Sourdough Bread Baking Kit

This kit from the trusted Nordic Ware brand includes the essential tools for making delicious sourdough.

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$100 at Amazon

What is a sourdough kit?

A sourdough kit typically includes the tools you need to make, maintain and bake with sourdough starter—but not the actual ingredients. Most kits don’t come with active starter, flour or yeast, so you’ll still need to source those separately.

The Nordic Ware Deluxe 10-Piece Simply Sourdough Bread Baking Kit covers a lot of ground, though. It includes a baking pan with a lid that works for both proofing and baking, a glass starter jar with a temperature strip and tracker band, a Danish dough whisk, a retractable lame, a plastic bench scraper, a silicone lifting sling, a cotton proofing towel and a quick-start guide with recipes. The deluxe version also includes an Escali digital baking scale, which is especially helpful for precise measurements.

How We Tested

I generously consider myself a self-taught (very amateur) home cook. I can throw down, so to speak, when it comes to gravies, sauces and curries—anything that rewards intuition, flavor-blending, a little experimentation and a hefty margin for error. Baking is trickier, but I can usually follow a recipe well enough. That said, having never baked a single loaf of bread from scratch in my life, sourdough turned out to be a different animal entirely.

First up: the starter. I cheated and bought some from King Arthur. I don’t personally know anyone who makes sourdough—and certainly no one close enough to share starter.

I swiftly added the King Arthur Classic Fresh Sourdough Starter to my cart shortly after the Nordic Ware kit arrived. And the starter arrived quickly, in great condition, and became ripe and ready after just a few feeding cycles. It also came with a sourdough tips and recipes booklet, which I actually found more beginner-friendly than the one included in the Nordic Ware kit. Catherine agrees. King Arthur was her original go-to for discard recipes, and she still regularly makes sourdough waffles, chocolate cake and English muffins using their formulas.

I will say that maintaining and feeding a starter in those early days is not entirely unlike caring for a child. It requires near-constant attention—or at least, that’s how it felt.

Once my starter was ripe, the real challenge began. I found multiple recipes with conflicting advice, and TikTok wasn’t much help this time around. Influencers with their perfectly round, bronzed loaves made it all look far too easy. It wasn’t. Not for me.

I ultimately chose between two recipes: the one included with the Nordic Ware kit and the one that came with the King Arthur starter. The Nordic Ware recipe was very involved and required hours upon hours of prep work, no exaggeration. The King Arthur recipe promised loaves within hours, thanks to a bit of instant yeast. With a literal child to care for and a notoriously short attention span, the choice was obvious.

Using the King Arthur Rustic Sourdough Bread recipe, I combined my ripe starter with instant yeast, all-purpose flour, salt and lukewarm water. The dough only needed a few hours of rising and resting—thank you, instant yeast.

At the risk of embarrassment, I’m including a photo of my very first loaf here. It was oddly pale (too much flour? Not enough spritzing?) and a little flat. But honestly, it tasted pretty good. Slightly chewy, sure—which Catherine says may be due to cutting into the loaf before it cooled—but still miles better than typical store-bought bread, assuming your grocery store doesn’t carry loaves from a local baker.

As for the tools, I reached for the glass starter jar, Danish dough whisk and digital scale most often. These felt essential for feeding and maintaining the starter. The remaining tools came into play during mixing, shaping and baking, and while they’re nice to have, you could probably make do with comparable baking tools you already own.

What’s missing? A spray bottle for wetting loaves and a dusting tool for flouring before baking.

Overall, the Nordic Ware kit includes nearly everything you need to begin your sourdough journey, aside from active starter (or ingredients to make one), a spray bottle and a dusting tool. But the tools that are included feel well-made and thoughtfully designed—and likely higher quality and better value than piecing together a kit from Amazon alternatives.

Catherine points out that one of the most important factors in sourdough baking is internal temperature. “That’s probably the most important thing to ensure your loaf is baked all the way through,” she says. An instant-read thermometer would also be a welcome addition to the kit. Though, most home cooks probably already have one in their arsenal.

Even if your bread looks done, Catherine warns, you have to go by temperature. The thermometer should read between 190 and 205 degrees.

For a sourdough newbie, the Nordic Ware kit proved genuinely useful—even if it isn’t totally comprehensive. But I mean, I can’t reasonably expect it to include the oven, too.

Pros

• Strong value for price and makes a great gift
• Well-made, quality tools
• Useful for starter maintenance
• Digital scale included (deluxe version)
• A solid option for beginners who don’t yet own core baking equipment

Cons

• No spray bottle or flouring tool included, so you may still need a few basic tools to get started
• Recipe guide may not be beginner-friendly

Final Verdict

The Nordic Ware sourdough kit is an excellent starting point for anyone curious about baking sourdough at home. With just a few inexpensive add-ons, you’ll be turning out homemade loaves sooner than you might expect.

The tools are thoughtfully designed and well-made, from a brand that crafts and sources the entirety of their product line here in the U.S. All the tools in the kit are genuinely useful, especially for beginners navigating the learning curve.

The Nordic Ware kit also makes a standout gift for aspiring bakers or anyone looking to level up their home-baking setup.

Where to Order

I Tried It

Nordic Ware Sourdough Bread Baking Kit

Not a baker? You can still give the gift of homemade sourdough with this bread baking kit.

Shop at Williams Sonoma

Shop at Target

$100 at Amazon

You can shop the Nordic Ware Deluxe 10-Piece Simply Sourdough Bread Baking Kit at retailers such as Williams-Sonoma, Amazon (9-piece set) and Target. The deluxe kit retails for around $125, while the basic kit, which does not include the digital scale, goes for about $99.

FAQ

How do you make sourdough starter?

You can make your own sourdough starter by combining flour and water and feeding it consistently until a stable culture of wild yeast and bacteria develops. This process requires patience, consistency, and a warm environment. Alternatively, you can purchase an active starter from companies like King Arthur, then feed, ripen and maintain it at home.

Where is Nordic Ware made?

Nordic Ware products have been manufactured in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for more than 75 years. The brand’s ‘Made in America’ label represents more than just domestic production; it reflects a commitment to meeting strict U.S. manufacturing standards while supporting American jobs, families and local communities.

Why You Should Trust Us

As a busy mom and first-time bread baker, I was the ideal candidate to test the Nordic Ware sourdough kit and see if it’s truly foolproof and beginner-friendly. I also consulted Taste of Home Prep Kitchen Manager and sourdough expert, Catherine Ward.

Catherine brings over 20 years of experience in restaurants, catering and test kitchens. She has also taught local cooking classes, covering a range of dishes from focaccia to paella. Sourdough is her current passion, and she regularly bakes using her well-established starter, making everything from classic loaves to creative recipes.

The post I’m a Newbie Bread Baker, and This Sourdough Kit Made the Process Less Intimidating appeared first on Taste of Home.

Enter gourmet cookie delivery. And no, I don’t mean panic-ordering a dozen via DoorDash or Uber Eats (though, no judgment). I’m talking next-level cookies: bakery-quality treats shipped straight to your door.

The best part? No pressure to eat them all in one sitting. These cookies keep for weeks—and even longer in the freezer—so future, hangry you is covered.

To get the full scoop, I roped in our Deputy Editor and resident cookie connoisseur Katie Bandurski for an honest, every-bite-counts Last Crumb cookie review.

We Tried It

Last Crumb Cookies

Handmade, artisan cookies shipped to your front door

Shop on Last Crumb

What are Last Crumb cookies?

Before we dive in, here’s the lowdown on Last Crumb. The brand ships handmade, artisan cookies straight from its NYC kitchen to your doorstep in just a few days.

The flavors lean classic but with clever twists. Think chocolate chip with caramelized butter and a hint of coffee, and macadamia nut with salted caramel and Maldon Sea Salt. Each cookie comes with a quirky name and a poetic description that makes every bite feel super indulgent. Pop one in the microwave for about 15 seconds, and it tastes like it just came out of the oven—not like it took a cross-country journey.

Then there’s the packaging, which is top tier. Every cookie is individually wrapped, making it easy to enjoy one at a time or stash a few in the freezer for later. They’re also gift-ready and easy to pluck out and pack into a care package—the perfect warm, gooey hug for a friend.

Everything arrives in a large, artful box (usually matte black) that feels like unwrapping a high-end present. Add in the witty, informative cookie booklet, and it’s a solid 10/10 for design and presentation.

Last Crumb also keeps things interesting with frequent brand collaborations and limited-edition, seasonal drops, like a special collab with beloved beer brand Guinness or a festive holiday dozen.

How We Tested

I tested my first Last Crumb box earlier this year—The Core Collection—and my verdict? Fantastic. The cookies were fresh, beautifully packaged and dangerously delicious. Almost too good to be true.

Naturally, I had to bring in backup. I tapped Katie, who’s an excellent home baker and unapologetic Guinness superfan, to help taste-test the Last Crumb x Guinness box. I also tested the Naughty List to see how a second limited-edition drop stacked up.

For me, the holiday box didn’t quite live up to the first. A few things missed the mark, and I’m not sure if it was a new launch hiccup or something else, but here’s the honest breakdown. About three or four cookies fell flat. Literally. They didn’t seem to rise properly and arrived a bit smooshed and underbaked. I love gooey, but there was visible moisture inside some of the packaging, which isn’t ideal. That said, standout flavors like Après Spice (spiced ginger raspberry) and Forbidden Fruit (oatmeal pear fig) were festive, fresh and absolutely mouthwatering.

It’s also possible that shipping played a role. A few cookies appeared to have been exposed to heat, possibly resulting in partial melting. Still, they were edible and tasted fine—not as impressive as the others, but not bad enough to toss, either.

As for the Guinness box, Katie was impressed. “Last Crumb really makes this collab feel special,” she says. “Even the exterior box was Guinness-themed, with giant prints of some of the most iconic animal mascots (hi, toucan!) donning festive attire.”

Inside? Six cookies, a bottle of butterscotch sauce, two pint glasses, a cookie tin and a tasting guide. “The cookies with Guinness baked in actually taste like stout, and it’s delicious,” Katie adds. “A lot of collaborations barely hint at the star ingredient, but Last Crumb puts it front and center.”

She was equally impressed by the texture and freshness. “As someone who has done her fair share of cookie baking, I was impressed with how homemade these taste,” Katie says. “Most mail-order cookies taste like they’ve been packaged for weeks and are packed with preservatives. Last Crumb cookies taste like I picked them up from a local bakery.”

Pros

• Unique flavor combinations made with quality ingredients
• Ultra-gooey texture, especially after a quick spin in the microwave
• Top-tier, gift-worthy packaging
• Stay fresh for up to two weeks (and longer in the freezer)
• Thick, bakery-style cookies with a soft, slightly underbaked center

Cons

• Expensive
• Occasional quality control inconsistencies

Comparison: Last Crumb vs. Crumbl

Crumbl is a popular cookie chain with instantly recognizable pink and white branding and walk-in locations across the US. The bakery-style stores smell as good as they look, with bakers mixing on-site. Crumbl rotates flavors weekly, offers oversized shareable cookies (plus minis), and makes ordering easy with pickup, delivery and catering. Prices typically range from $5 to $7 per cookie.

Last Crumb is a smaller, NYC–based, direct-to-consumer brand. Its cookies are slightly smaller but far more gourmet, with unique flavor combinations that don’t taste overly sweet or artificial. The experience feels luxe, right down to the dark, matte packaging (a stark contrast to Crumbl’s bubbly pink-and-white aesthetic). There’s no storefront, so cookies are shipped to your door, and the price reflects the luxury experience, averaging $10 to $11 per cookie.

In short, Crumbl is convenient, fun and accessible, while Last Crumb is a premium, from-scratch-style cookie splurge.

Final Verdict

TL; DR: Last Crumb cookies are big, beautifully packaged and taste homemade—but they come at a premium. Take the Guinness box: at $120, we wish it included a full dozen instead of just six cookies. Still, it’s a standout gift for serious Guinness fans and cookie lovers alike.

Overall, Last Crumb boxes make excellent gifts and indulgent treats. And if you truly love cookies, we think they’re absolutely worth trying.

Where to Order

We Tried It

Last Crumb Cookies

Luxury cookies from a NYC-based bakery known for intricate flavors and premium ingredients

Shop on Last Crumb

Order Last Crumb cookies directly from their site, where you can customize your own box or choose from curated selections. Boxes come in half-dozen or dozen sizes, priced between $90 and $140. You can save 10% by subscribing to monthly, bimonthly or quarterly deliveries.

FAQ

Where is Last Crumb located?

Last Crumb is an online luxury cookie brand based in NYC that ships nationwide. The brand also appears to do occasional pop-ups along the East Coast.

Are Last Crumb cookies worth it?

This isn’t an easy question—budgets and tastes vary a lot, even among our team. Yes, Last Crumb is pricey, and we’re upfront about that.

But are they worth it? We believe so. Between the unique flavors and the overall tasting experience, we think Last Crumb cookies are worth the splurge. Plus, they make fantastic gifts for serious cookie lovers.

Can you freeze Last Crumb cookies?

Yes. Freezing can keep them fresh for up to a month.

In general, cookie expert Ashley Seashore of Aundin’s Sweet Tooth recommends asking companies about the shelf life of their cookies if you’re unsure. “Some cookies only last at room temp for 3-4 days, especially if they’ve had fillings injected after baking,” she says. “Exposure to heat is the best way to kill bacteria, so if a filling with dairy or egg (like a cream or curd) is injected after the baking phase, there will usually be instructions to reheat the cookie before eating.”

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve always had a sweet tooth, and nothing, no matter how many layers of chocolate, is too rich for my palate. Frankly, the same may not agree with yours. That’s why I tapped Taste of Home’s resident cookie expert, Katie Bandurski, for help with this review.

I also chatted with Ashley Seashore, founder and owner of Aundin’s Sweet Tooth, a microbakery in Berkeley. Established earlier this year, Seashore is well-versed in the current cookie market in California.

The post Last Crumb Cookies Review: Our Honest Take appeared first on Taste of Home.

Fast-forward to late 2024: Lenox officially announced the collection’s return. The surprise re-release? Instant chaos. The set sold out multiple times in 2024 and 2025.

The good news? It’s currently in stock, and it’s even dreamier in person. So dreamy, in fact, that we’re officially naming it the Best Gift of 2025—for home cooks, thrifting fanatics and anyone whose heart beats a little faster for vintage gems.

Editor’s note: Through December 22, 2025, Taste of Home readers can take 15% off the 24-piece Spice Village set with code SPICE15.

Best Gift of 2025

Lenox Spice Village

The iconic 24-piece spice house set that took the internet by storm.

Shop at Lenox

What is the Lenox Spice Village?

The Lenox Spice Village first debuted in 1989 as a charming monthly subscription. You’d get the rack first, then a new tiny porcelain spice house every month, each one with a pastel roof and botanical accents. By the end, you weren’t just organizing your spice cabinet; you’d built a tiny, storybook village of 24 miniature cottages.

The series fizzled out in the early ’90s, but in recent years, the Spice Village has found new life in kitschy, grandmillennial and cottage-core design circles, with collectors showing off their finds and some original sets even hitting four figures online.

And then, it happened. 35 years after the initial debut, Lenox brought the magic back. The first wave of the revamped Spice Village dropped in 2024, staying true to the beloved aesthetic. It features pastel houses, floral details and even the signature 24-karat gold trim. And while 2024 delivered the big comeback restock, 2025 cemented the return with continued sellouts and new bundle options that made the nostalgia even harder to resist.

Why We Love It

When Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski heard the Lenox Spice Village was returning in September 2024, she hit “pre-order” faster than you can say paprika. As a lover of vintage finds and quirky collectibles, this re-release was basically her Super Bowl.

At checkout, she learned her set wouldn’t arrive until May 2025. No sweat off her back, though. She knows some treasures are worth the wait.

Then, in mid-February, something unexpected happened: a shipping notification. After five long months, her tiny porcelain village was finally on its way, and earlier than expected.

The new village features 24 unique houses (no repeats) painted in soft purples, blues, pinks and grays, with a few variations like the salmon-hued saffron cottage and a green tarragon house. They look stunning together, like a tiny village plucked straight from a fairytale.

Each house has a removable roof for filling, and the openings are generously sized (a blessing when transferring spices). And in case you need further validation, even Martha Stewart is backing the new Spice Village on Lenox’s site. If it’s Martha-approved, you know it’s good.

Which brings us to why this is such a fantastic gift for 2025. It’s timeless, beautifully crafted, wildly collectible and guaranteed to be a hit for anyone who loves cooking, vintage treasures or simply adding a little whimsy to their kitchen.

If the nostalgia-loving foodie in your life doesn’t have this re-released set yet, trust us, this is the gift that will absolutely make their year.

Where to Buy

Best Gift of 2025

Lenox Spice Village

Pretty pastels and hand-painted details just like the original set make the Lenox Spice Village a collector's dream.

Shop at Lenox

We almost forgot—these little houses are basically inflation-proof. They’re going for about the same price as the originals from 1989. Try finding that kind of deal these days!

You can grab a single spice house for $16, one of four 6-piece sets for $75, or go all in with the full 24-piece village for $299.

Lenox isn’t stopping there, either. The Spice Village collection keeps growing, with charming additions like a line of matching kitchen gear and even an entire Christmas collection. Quaint little treasures to round out your pastel-perfect village.

The post The Lenox Spice Village Is the Best Gift We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

Among the best dining tables we’ve tried, one option consistently stands out: the Castlery Seb dining table set. Not only are we drawn to Castlery furniture for its easy construction, but it also offers incredible longevity—something you rarely see in shippable furniture pieces these days. Here’s why we love this table, along with why it made our list as the best furniture of 2025.

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Seb Dining Table Set

This heirloom-worthy table set still looks brand new after a year of testing.

1615.004% OFF$1539 at Castlery

What is the Castlery Seb dining table set?

The Seb dining table set from Castelry is a beautiful, sturdy mid century-inspired dining set in a gorgeous honey brown color. This sleek and timeless style is available both as individual pieces and as a set. As for the tabletop, shoppers can choose between two table lengths, including 59- and 71-inches. While the table we tested is a fixed length, the style also comes in an extendable version for more flexibility.

For seating, pick from three bench options, two or four chairs and wood or fabric chair finishes. The colors offered are mostly neutrals, including shades of creamy white, slate and dark graphite. As for the bench, Castlery offers a choice of seats that includes a smaller bench at 51.2-inches or a larger 63-inch option that better fits the larger table size. All the pieces are made from solid Acacia wood and include a 1-year warranty.

Why We Love It

Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski received the Seb dining table set in May 2024. She chose the 59-inch table with two wood chairs and a 51.2-inch bench. It arrived in three large cardboard boxes. Inside, the chairs were readily assembled, while the table and bench required her to screw on the legs. Easy peasy!

“The set looked exactly like the listing photo,” raves Katie in her review of the dining set. “Everything from the cozy wood tone to the rustic, distressed finish matched my expectations. We have a lot of different wood tones throughout our kitchen. Specifically, the retro cabinets. And the table’s muted, honey tone was a classic complement.”

The table does require more maintenance than, say, glass. So it may not be ideal for families with frequent spills. That said, Katie notes that wiping up spills is easy and staining is avoidable so long as you take care of dark spills right away. And, after more than a year of use, it still looks as good as new in her kitchen.

“I’m careful to use placemats, coasters and hot pads, but there have definitely been some forgetful moments—and the table’s wood surface hasn’t deteriorated one bit,” says Katie. “The sun also hasn’t made an impact, even though the table gets at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure a day.”

She notes that the legs require occasional tightening, but they remain sturdy and strong even after hosting family gatherings. In fact, she considers Castlery to be the Goldilocks of online furniture. According to Katie, “it’s not too cheap nor too expensive; the designs are contemporary yet classic, offering a timeless feel; the construction is sturdy, allowing solid materials like 100% acacia wood to sing. The Seb dining table set, in particular, is a solid option that I expect to last for many stages of life.”

Where to Buy

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysBest Furniture of 2025

Seb Dining Table Set

If you want a 'buy it for life' dining table, the Castlery Seb set is a great option.

1615.004% OFF$1539 at Castlery

Those who want to invest in a dining set that lasts throughout years of use can pick up the Seb dining table set on Castlery’s website. Costs range from $699 to $1,755, depending on the size, color and chair choices. Given that most heirloom dining sets cost upwards of $5,000, we find the price incredibly fair.

The brand also offers a variety of other furniture pieces for the home, including couches, bed frames, patio furnishings and even smaller decor items like dinnerware sets. Want to see more top-rated items tested by our expert editors? Check out our best gift and beverage picks for more favorites we discovered in 2025!

The post The Castlery Seb Dining Table Is the Best Piece of Furniture We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

Katie, who has tested the HexClad pizza steel for over a year now, says, “I’m beyond impressed with the crispy, crunchy results it yields on all kinds of eats.”

Still curious as to why this pizza stole the crown for 2025? Keep on scrolling.

Best Cookware of 2025

HexClad Hybrid Pizza Steel

This hybrid pizza steel is oven-safe up to 900°F, so you can even pop it on the grill!

Shop on HexClad

What is the HexClad pizza steel?

This year, we’re all about multipurpose cookware that saves space and time—and the HexClad pizza steel is exactly that. It takes the brand’s iconic cookware design and turns it into a hybrid kitchen all-star. The slick, naturally nonstick surface makes food release effortless, and its versatility means it’s far more than just a pizza tool. We’ve used it for sweet potato fries, veggies, naan and more.

The 14.5-inch cooking surface gives you plenty of room to make a meal, it’s heat-safe up to a blazing 900°F for ovens or grills, and it weighs just under five pounds. Oh, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. Honestly, what’s not to love?

Why We Love It

Still wondering how a pizza steel could really be that much better than your trusty baking sheet? Let’s talk about the HexClad pizza steel.

Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski has been using it since March 2024, and after more than a year and a half, it still looks brand new. It’s now her go-to for everything from roasting veggies, crisping meats and browning fries to—of course—baking pizza.

After transferring her fresh pizza dough to the cool steel (no flouring needed), Katie added sauce and cheese. Then, she baked it at 450 degrees.

“I cooked it for about 15 minutes total, or until the cheese was charred to my liking,” Katie says. “I pulled it from the oven, and, like the frozen pizza, the pie danced around the steel—no sticking in sight! The dough was thoroughly cooked through with a slight golden hue on the bottom.”

Costco’s frozen cauliflower-crust pizza is a weekly ritual for Katie, but how does it do on the HexClad pizza steel? “After just a few minutes, I could already tell there was something magical happening,” she says. The crust emerged with a deep golden color, crunchy, and, once again, completely nonstick.

After a very successful frozen pizza upgrade, Katie was eager to see what else the pizza steel could do. “For my next test, I tried a frozen food I can never seem to cook properly: sweet potato fries,” she says. Usually a burnt, sticky mess. But on the steel? Zero sticking, caramel-kissed edges and crisp perfection.

Over the following weeks, Katie put the steel through everything: roasting veggies, cooking baby quiche and phyllo apps, browning plant-based meats, toasting naan and even sheet-pan meals—all easily accommodated by the roomy 14.5-inch surface. Every time, the results were evenly crisp, beautifully browned and fast.

Cleanup is equally effortless. Once cool, a quick soapy rinse removes everything. It’s technically dishwasher-safe, but handwashing is easier, mostly because the steel is a bit bulky for the dishwasher. Just avoid sharp tools (like a pizza cutter or knife) directly on the surface.

After a year and a half, the HexClad pizza steel remains the most-used piece of bakeware in Katie’s kitchen.

It is an investment, but based on Katie’s long-term testing our other HexClad reviews, we’re confident this is steel built to last.

Where to Buy

Best Cookware of 2025

HexClad Hybrid Pizza Steel

A grill-safe pizza steel that delivers fast, crispy and golden brown results every time.

Shop on HexClad

Snag your own pizza steel straight from the HexClad site. It’s $149, backed by a lifetime warranty—and if our Deputy Editor’s experience is anything to go by, it’s poised to become your kitchen’s new superstar.

If you’re dreaming of next-level pizza nights or crave that perfectly bronzed crisp without sacrificing counter space to an air fryer, this pizza steel is the upgrade your oven’s been waiting for.

Check out our Best Kitchen Gadget of 2025 for perfectly grated cheese to top your pizza!

The post The HexClad Pizza Steel Is the Best Piece of Cookware We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

When we caught wind of a tool that claims to shred cheese in seconds without any elbow grease required, our ears perked up. Rotary graters completely change the game when it comes to making mac and cheese or slicing cucumbers for cucumber salad. The editor-loved Cambom rotary cheese grater takes the chore out of cheesy dishes, lending to its prestigious status as the best kitchen gadget of 2025.

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Lowest Price in 30 daysBest Kitchen Gadget of 2025

Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater

If you're sick of sweating over a box grater, this smart gadget is the upgrade your kitchen needs.

35.9920% OFF$28.96 at Amazon

What is the Cambom rotary cheese grater?

After testing a number of rotary graters, the Cambom rotary cheese grater remains our go-to grating gadget. Not only does this tool save significant time in the kitchen, but it’s also much less dangerous than traditional cheese graters and mandolins. Hands stay at a safe distance from the blades, making it perfect for kids. Those with mobility issues also benefit from the quick, effortless functionality.

Most rotary graters resemble a crank with a funnel attached, and this one is no exception. Home cooks feed cheese, veggies, fruits or other soft or slightly firm foods through the top chute. From there, a pusher inserted through the top gently pushes the food down while the user cranks the handle. This rotates the grating drum, which quickly creates piles of shredded cheese, potatoes or other ingredients.

The Cambom grater comes with five different cylindrical attachments all yielding different types of shreds and slices. Blades range from fine and extra fine grater heads to julienne, slicing and crushing blades. The crushing blade is ideal for cookies or crumbs, while the other blades work well for veggie noodles and cheese shreds. Most parts are also dishwasher safe on the top rack for easy cleanup.

Why We Love It

What’s not to love about a gadget that saves time and requires next to no effort? The Cambom rotary cheese grater transforms cooking from a chore into an easy, entertaining hobby. Not only does it significantly cut down on prep time, but it also offers several additional benefits like a variety of blades that produce different results. For safety and stability, the grater suctions to the countertop via a twisting dial on the side, preventing slippage.

In our review of the Cambom rotary cheese grater, tester Madi Koetting says, “I don’t own another cheese grater in my kitchen, nor do I wish I did. The handle on this shredder is incredibly smooth and, dare I say, fun to use. A traditional grater requires significant elbow grease, while this kitchen gadget requires minimal force to get the job done, making it a win-win in my books.”

She isn’t the only one who enjoys cranking out shredded cheddar, though. Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski also owns one of these useful kitchen tools. Much like Maddie, she uses it for cheese. However, she notes that it’s also useful for other culinary tasks as well. While testing over the course of several months, Katie tried an assortment of foods, including veggies and ice. She notes that it’s especially useful when bulk grating for large dishes like mac and cheese or julienne carrot shreds for salads.

“Over the course of a few weeks, I used this tool to grate a number of foods, including several types of cheese, carrots and cucumbers,” says Katie. “I was awed at the speed! This thing really transforms an entire block of cheese or carrot into thin, cut pieces in mere seconds. It’s more convenient than hauling out my food processor! I also like the slicing attachment as a replacement for my mandoline. It’s quicker and safer to use since my hands aren’t in the way.”

Where to Buy

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysBest Kitchen Gadget of 2025

Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater

Shred and slice your way into the new year with this beloved, editor-approved gadget.

35.9920% OFF$28.96 at Amazon

Ready to reap the benefits of fast, fun cheese prep? Home cooks can snag their own Cambom rotary cheese grater on Amazon’s website. While this gadget may look like a bit of a splurge compared to a traditional box grater, you can snag the set with five blades for only $35. We consider that a steal—especially when you think about all the time you’ll save with this nifty kitchen gadget!

The post The Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater Is the Best Kitchen Gadget We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

Choosing the best subscription of 2025 out of hundreds of contenders may seem like an impossible task, but one subscription box stands out among all the others. Universal Yums is a global snack box that anyone can get behind. Each month brings savory and sweet snacks from a chosen country right to your door.

Here’s why we can’t get enough of this worldly food subscription.

Best Subscription of 2025

Universal Yums Snack Box

Still looking for a last-minute gift? You can't go wrong with this top-rated snack subscription.

Shop on Universal Yums

What is Universal Yums?

Universal Yums is like taking a trip to a pantry in another country. Each box comes jam packed with snacks, trivia and other fun finds. Every month’s shipment highlights a different country, making the subscription itself feel like a mini snack-focused vacation.

Subscriptions all begin the same way. First, select the box you’d like to try. Choose from the Yum box containing 5-7 snacks, the Yum Yum box containing 10-12 snacks or the behemoth Super Yum box, which contains 15-18 snacks plus a drink. Then, pick the country you’d like to start with. Potential countries include South Korea, Italy, Greece, Germany and more. The availability changes every so often to help keep selections fresh.

Prices are tiered based on the box selection and the subscription length, with a prepaid subscription of a year or six months costing less per box than a month-to-month subscription. Or, you can order past boxes individually without a subscription. Inside the boxes are snacks from the chosen country, plus educational materials like facts, trivia and information on the snacks.

Why We Love It

Two different editors tested this subscription for several months over the last three years, and each time we enjoyed it just as much as the last time.

“I received the Yum Yum Belgium Box with 10 snacks,” says tester Annamarie Higley in our review of the subscription. “Once it arrived, I got straight to snacking! The subscription box was stuffed to the top with treats—I didn’t feel skimped at all.”

Annamarie isn’t the only one who enjoyed their Universal Yums subscription. Shopping Editor Mary Henn also tested Universal Yums, this time exploring the U.K. box. She says, “I really liked just about everything in the box. The cookies tasted super fresh for boxed cookies. I was a big fan of the soft Bounty Cookies with chocolate chips and coconut. I also really liked the sweet and chewy Walkers Milk Chocolate Eclairs.”

Each box comes with a Yum scorecard, so recipients can rank each snack in their box based on which they liked most. Boxes also come with a healthy stack of literature packed inside for additional learning. In Mary’s box, for instance, she received a map, stickers, a booklet with food facts and trivia, recipes and details about the snacks. It’s just as much educational as it is delicious!

“My first thought was, ‘This would be so fun if I were packing a school lunch for an elementary student,’” Mary says. “My mom used to pack the most elaborate lunches when I was younger, and the Universal Yums box took me back to fond childhood memories. Of course, my partner and I enjoyed playing the trivia together in the kitchen while enjoying late-night crisps and biscuits (AKA chips and cookies).”

Where to Buy

Best Subscription of 2025

Universal Yums Snack Box

Get ready to enjoy global eats! This snack club beat out dozens of other top contender for our top slot.

Shop on Universal Yums

Universal Yums makes a thoughtful gift for foodies, a fun monthly activity for families or a cute date night idea for couples. The beauty of this subscription is that it appeals to almost everyone who likes snacks, especially those who are adventurous! Folks who want to subscribe can do so on the Universal Yums website. Prices start at only $17 per month, making it a great budget buy for the exploratory epicure. There’s also the option to send the subscription as a gift for the foodie in your life!

The post Universal Yums Is the Best Subscription Gift We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

With a collective decade of experience in gift hunting, it’s rare that we find a product that triggers the “must have” switch in our brains. But the Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket rises to the challenge. Boasting soft, oversized bliss, this blanket earned its spot as the best home decor product of 2025. Here’s everything we love about this fancy faux fur find.

Best Home Decor Product of 2025

Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket

The Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket features the softest faux fur fabric our tester has ever encountered.

$328 at Cozy Earth

What is the Cozy Earth cuddle blanket?

The Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket is well-loved across the Taste of Home testing team, as evidenced by its “best splurge” status in our list of the best blankets. The oversized throw is notably heavier than other Cozy Earth blankets we’ve tried. Plus, it’s incredibly stylish, especially when draped over an inviting armchair or modular sectional.

It comes in two sizes: a larger 80-by-60 inch size, and a standard 60-by-50 inch throw size. Both blanket sizes offer a long, silky faux fur texture reminiscent of a lush, uber-soft faux fur coat. This luxurious exterior is plush, substantial and wraps around you like a big warm hug. The Cuddle Blanket is available in multiple colors, including walnut, dove grey, creme and espresso.

Why We Love It

In our review of the Cuddle Blanket, we praise it for its silky-soft faux fur, which is just as plush and luxurious as it looks. Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski has owned hers since June 2025. While it didn’t get a lot of use in the summertime, she couldn’t be more thrilled to wrap herself in this cozy cuddle cave during chilly Wisconsin winters.

“Right out of the bag, I was genuinely shocked by how soft the fabric was. I joked to my husband that it felt like chinchilla fur—or being enrobed in a giant Jellycat. It’s truly one of the softest things I’ve ever touched,” says Katie. “For three months, I found myself reaching for the Cuddle Blanket at every chance. It’s the ultimate companion for reading, watching TV or even working from home. I frequently found myself mindlessly petting the fabric while hanging out on the couch.”

There are dozens of faux fur blankets on the market, but the Cuddle Blanket is most similar to the viral Lola Blanket. Both brands make a buttery-soft, oh-so snuggly throw. That said, Lola Blankets have a 14-day return window. It’s also a requirement that returns are unused, unwashed and in the original packaging. On the flip side, Cozy Earth Cuddle Blankets come with a 100-night sleep trial. Plus, purchasers enjoy a 10-year warranty.

That said, it is an investment. “The Cuddle Blanket is absolutely a splurge, but it does, in fact, live up to the hype,” says Katie. “I have yet to encounter another comparable blanket on the market that is as uber-soft, cozy and high-quality.”

In her time snuggling up in the oversized blanket, Katie found that spot cleaning works best for spills and small stains. While the blanket is technically washing machine safe if you hang it to dry after, the sheer size and weight make it a little complicated to launder. That said, Editor Madi Koetting previously tested the smaller throw and washed it in her machine without issue. This might be the way to go if you know you’ll need to frequently deep clean it.

Where to Buy

Best Home Decor Product of 2025

Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket

Even self-described blanket aficionados will instantly replace their go-to throw with this soft, snuggly Cuddle Blanket.

$328 at Cozy Earth

Those who want to upgrade their nap time can find the Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket on the brand’s website. Not only is it a gorgeous home decor piece when draped over a couch, but it also makes a beautiful, cozy gift for almost any occasion. After all, who doesn’t love to cuddle up with a soft, silky blanket when the chilly weather hits?

The post The Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket Is the Best Home Decor Product We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

As existing fans of the Atlas coffee subscription, we’re always excited when the brand announces a new product. Naturally, when it debuted a new mushroom coffee superblend in its caffeinated lineup this year, we couldn’t wait to try it. Not only did it impress our editors with its flavor and benefits, but it was good enough to land a place as our best food and beverage product of 2025. Here’s why we can’t stop sipping!

Best Beverage of 2025

Atlas+ Coffee Superblend

Need a drink that goes beyond caffeine? Atlas+ superblend is worth a try—especially for midday focus and gut support.

Shop on Atlas

What is Atlas mushroom coffee?

Atlas mushroom coffee is a newcomer to the mushroom coffee market. The brew comes in a powdered form, similar to instant coffee. Just mix up 1-2 scoops with around five ounces of warm water. Or, opt for 3-4 scoops in around seven ounces of water for a more concentrated drink.

Each serving is packed with 2,250 mg of functional mushrooms, including ashwagandha, reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps. Additionally, inside are benefits from ingredients such as cassia cinnamon, probiotics, prebiotics, L-theanine, collagen and vitamins D3 and B12. There’s also only around 45mg of caffeine per serving, which is about equal to half a cup of coffee or a can of soda.

We’re all familiar with the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics for gut health. Cassia cinnamon also lends itself to digestion, while L-theanine helps promote relaxation, which balances out any jittery effects of the caffeine. Additionally, vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium, benefitting the immune system as well as bone, muscle and nerve health. Vitamin B12 is perhaps the most important inclusion, as it’s essential for brain health and difficult to find outside of meaty proteins.

In particular, the collagen is an impressive addition not typically found in other popular brands. From my time working at a beauty counter, I know that collagen really only benefits the body from the inside out, rather than applying it topically. That is, ingesting it is the best way to see an improvement in skin health.

Why We Love It

Deputy Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski is no stranger to Atlas coffee. She tested the coffee subscription service twice, both in 2023 and 2024. Then, she tested the Atlas+ superblend upon its release. Overall, Katie came away impressed with the noticeable benefits.

“I was shocked to learn there’s only 45 mg of caffeine in each serving,” Katie explains. “I noticed an immediate difference in clarity and energy that picked me out of my afternoon slump.” Benefits aside, Katie also notes that it’s one of the better blends she’s enjoyed.

“It tastes like a lot of instant coffees, bitter with a slightly chalky mouthfeel,” she says. “There’s no complexity or balanced flavor like you get with brewed coffee, but it’s considerably better than other mushroom coffees I’ve tried.” That said, those who are new to mushroom coffees and prefer a more approachable flavor can snag a bag of the latte blend instead. It’s my favorite way to reap the benefits!

As someone who has never had mushroom coffee, Katie’s review piqued my interest. I’ve been drinking both the coffee and the latte blend for about a month now. The latte blend has a nice coconut flavor, which masks the bitter undertones Katie noted quite well. I use my handheld frother to mix up around 3-4 scoops of the powder with eight ounces of warm (not hot) water. The result resembles a frothy latte in look, but with all the added benefits of mushroom coffee built in!

Atlas mushroom coffee is an easy way to blend healthy benefits into your morning or midday cup. After all, who likes swallowing a fleet of vitamins every morning when they can just drink their daily nutrients instead? Plus, the inclusion of B12 and collagen makes this a great way for vegetarians and vegans to get essential nutrients primarily found in meat.

Where to Buy

Best Beverage of 2025

Atlas+ Coffee Superblend

Folks looking to start a healthier lifestyle without disrupting their routines will find Atlas' Coffee superblend is a fantastic compromise.

Shop on Atlas

Atlas mushroom coffee is fantastic for those seeking unique coffee gifts or who want to try mushroom coffee for themselves. Pick up a bag on the brand’s website and reap the benefits instantly!

It costs $38 for a single bag containing 28 servings, or $58 for two bags containing 56 servings. When you subscribe, you’ll also score a free starter kit that includes a milk frother, measuring spoon and wellness booklet. 

The post Atlas Mushroom Coffee Is the Best Beverage We Tested in 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

Some people may disagree, but in our humble opinion here at Taste of Home, ice cream is a year-round treat. For fellow frosty treat fans, a subscription to Jeni’s Pint Club offers a tasty monthly surprise. Every month, recipients receive a curated selection of four flavors delivered directly to their doorstep. The flavors range from seasonal to standard, so you truly never know what you’re getting. Plus, some flavors may not yet be available to the general public, giving subscribers an exclusive peek into upcoming releases.

“I was impressed with the wide array of flavors in my ice cream subscription box. The mix had a little bit of everything—chocolaty, fruity, salty and even savory,” says Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski in her review of this ice cream subscription.

For the Cookie Monster

Levain Bakery Cookies

Shop on Levain Bakery

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Levain cookies are our go-to last-minute gifts for our favorite foodies. Between the behemoth size and decadent taste, they’re sure to impress even the most skeptical snacker. Just ask Deputy Editor Katie, who swears by these oversized delights.

“After one bite, I knew the hype was real,” says Katie in her review. “These cookies are truly perfect. They’re crispy around the edges, gooey in the center, studded with melty chocolate and crunchy walnuts. My journey for the best chocolate chip cookie was finally coming to a close.”

For the Flower Child

Pining for You Bouquet

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Flower delivery is a classic gift no matter the occasion. We’ve tested lots of services, but Bouqs stands out for its incredible arrangements and secure shipping. When it comes to stunning holiday greenery, we’re absolutely smitten with this festive Pining for You bouquet.

“I can’t have a real Christmas tree due to allergies, so this bouquet was the perfect way to bring that fresh pine scent into my home for the season,” Katie says. “I was able to enjoy the greenery for several weeks after the roses and more fragile flowers died.”

For the Bookworm

Book of the Month

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A subscription to Book of the Month club is a no-brainer for readers. Every month, subscribers choose a book from a pool of vetted new releases that span several genres. Our editors have all given this service as a gift at some point, and it’s always well-received.

“I gifted a three-month subscription to my mother-in-law who always has her nose in a book,” says Content Director Nicole Doster in our review of the service. “The gifting process was seamless, and I appreciated that they had an option for a physical gift card so I didn’t show up to Christmas empty-handed. I even got a notification when she signed up!”

For the Partier

Toast the New Year Cooking Class

Shop on Sur La Table

Sur La Table is one of our favorite places to find gifts for cooks, pie bakers and other kitchenistas. While most items take a little while to ship, you can find an instant gift in one of their many online cooking and baking classes! This Toast to the New Year cooking class offers a fun date night for those who like to celebrate. Chef Vanessa walks attendees through cooking their very own meal of Pepper-Crusted Seared Steak, Lobster Risotto, Champagne Chocolate Truffles and a toast-worthy Kir Royale cocktail to ring in the new year.

For the Coffee Connoisseur

Trade Coffee Subscription

Subscribe to Trade Coffee

Savvy sippers and caffeiene fiends, rejoice! A Trade Coffee subscription ships fast and includes access to dozens of different expertly-roasted, fresh beans. Shop the service’s premade subscriptions, or build your own for a totally custom gift for java junkies.

“If you enjoy trying new coffee, a Trade Coffee subscription is the best way to experience beans tailored exactly to your tastes,” says Katie in her review of the coffee subscription. “In my testing, I was most impressed with the attention to detail, freshness and flavor. Trade makes it easy to upgrade your day. Plus, it makes a wonderful gift!”

For the bread fan

Wildgrain Box

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A Wildgrain subscription is a little like getting a little bakery in a box each month. Whether their carb tastes lean savory or sweet (or even gluten-free), recipients will enjoy a full fleet of fresh-from-the-oven treats—no baking knowledge required! Katie says of her Wildgrain experience, “I love having Wildgrain products stocked in my freezer for on-the-go sandwiches or snacks. Everything I’ve tried has been fresh, convenient and delicious.”

For the curious coffee drinker

Coffee Tasting Class

Shop on Uncommon Goods

We love Uncommon Goods for their fun finds and fast shipping. But physical gifts aren’t the only thing they offer! Uncommon Experiences  are online classes that cover everything from pet portrait painting to cooking. I personally tried out the Coffee Tasting class and couldn’t have had a better experieince.

After attending, I can attest that this is a great gift for coffee lovers. It’s also perfect for a date activity! The Q&A at the end with teacher Julien Langevin is worth the price of admission itself, to be honest. The information that they share and the way they guide the class is such a treat.

For the Carb Loader

Sfoglini Pasta Club

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Nothing makes a night cozier than a big bowl of premium pasta. So naturally, it also makes a lovely cozy gift for the holidays—especially when the recipient gets a box filled with six packages with a Sfoglini subscription! Each package also arrives with a six-recipe booklet filled with information about the pasta and culinary tricks and tips for serving.

“I tried this gift subscription and was impressed by the variety,” raves Katie. “I eat pasta on the reg, and was still introduced to new flavors and shapes, like rye trumpets or saffron malloreddus.”

For the One Who Has Everything

Happy Box

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We love gift boxes, but sometimes they can come across as impersonal. Not so with Happy Box! Giftees choose from a pool of gifts to build their own shipment. Possibilities include candles, candies, socks and other treats. And because it’s customized, it’s much more personal than a premade assortment, so it makes a great best friend gift.

“This is my new go-to gift for far-away friends and family members,” says Katie in our review of the service. “I loved that each item was tailored to my tastes and hand-picked by Megan. Happy Box felt much more personal than many other pre-packed gift boxes. And the fact that it’s a women-owned company that gives back to the community? That’s pretty cool, too.”

For the Picky Person

Sugarwish

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Need a secret santa gift stat for someone you don’t really know? A Sugarwish box is our gifting hack for avoiding awkwardness. Just choose the size and category of treats and let your recipient pick their favorites. Categories san everything from candy to snacks, dips, drink mixers, candles and more. Choose a personal shipment, or opt for a party box for a delicious gift for the whole family or office!

In our Sugarwish review, tester Maddie says, “My Sugarwish arrived in a gorgeous candy cane-striped red and blue box at my door. The packaging was a 10/10, and all six snacks I chose were neatly assorted inside sealed treat cups. It only took three short days for it to arrive, and I was amazed at how fresh the candy tasted.”

For the Cheese Lover

Boarderie Charcuterie Gift

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$139.99 at Harry & David

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Nothing says self care like a premade charcuterie board like those from Boarderie, which ship out temperature controlled and oh so pretty. In our Boarderie review, tester Annamarie Higley notes, “My favorite part of the Boarderie board was the experiential aspect. A few friends and I had a lovely time huddling around the board, trying each item, discussing the flavors, swapping opinions and sipping wine intermittently. It was such fun to consume the board with as much intention as it was created.”

For the Long-Distance Lover

Chest of Chocolates with Wine

$119.99 at Harry & David

Harry & David never disappoints when it comes to finding some seriously thoughtful gifts—and they also offer one-day delivery on some items! One of our favorite finds is this Chest of Chocolates with Wine, which comes with a decadent assortment of sweets paired with two premium bottles of wine.

“The chest of chocolates and wine were packaged very carefully—some of the best packaging I’ve seen when it comes to keeping items safe and intact,” shares Shopping Editor Mary Henn. “Contents seem a bit smaller in person than what’s pictured online, but there’s a good variety.” Want to see our other favorite finds from Harry & David? Read our review of the retailer!

For the One Who Misses Summer

Jack Stack BBQ Sampler

Shop on Goldbelly

Those of us who covet our barbecue can’t help but miss grilling weather in the winter. Give the gift of smoky goodness with a BBQ sampler box from Jack Stack. It is truly some of the best barbecue I’ve ever had. I heated some up for a friend get-together, and nobody even guessed it came through the mail! Pick up a package as a unique gift for him (or treat yourself—it’s the holidays, after all)!

Goldbelly also has tons of other food gifts that ship quickly. See some of our editors’ favorite finds for more inspiration!

For the Francophile

Online 2-Day Croissant Workshop

Shop on Sur La Table

Ooh la la! With this guided online class, your favorite Francophile can learn to make one of the most important French pastries of all. The two-day croissant workshop from Sur La Table offers all the knowledge required, from making the dough to laminating to baking. It’s an engaging way to get started on their French pastry journey!

For the New Yorker

William Greenberg Black and White Cookies

$59.95 at Goldbelly

If you haven’t had a black and white cookie, they’re sort of a midpoint between cookies and cupcakes. I brought a tin of these classic William Greenberg black and white confections to a party, and they were absolutely devoured. Whether you’re a cake person or a cookie person, a vanilla person or a chocolate person, you’ll enjoy these. Get more than you think you need—they go quickly!

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the crafty one

Adults and Crafts Crate

36.008% OFF$33 at CrateJoy

Looking for the perfect gift for a crafter? We tested the Adults and Crafts Crate, a monthly shipment containing a new craft each month. Tester Caroline Lubinsky’s box came with two stickers, craft directions and all the different tools and materials needed to make a resin serving tray. This included the mold, the resin, handles for the tray, a lighter and colored powder. She found the box easy to follow and a fun way to spend an afternoon indoors.

For the Newbie in the Kitchen

Wolfgang Puck Teaches Cooking

Shop on Masterclass

Sure, you can gift a gourmet food gift to your friend that struggles to boil water. Or, you can help them learn how to make their own meals with this cooking class taught by famed chef Wolfgang Puck. The course consists of 16 lessons covering culinary tasks like training your palate, crafting a standard béchamel sauce and which kitchen essentials they should invest in. They’ll come away so much more confident in the kitchen!

For the Tropical Fruit Fanatic

Miami Fruit Box

Shop on Goldbelly

Folks who enjoy tropical fruit can enjoy a hearty serving with a Miami fruit box shipment. I received nearly a dozen different fruits in my fruit delivery, from watermelon guava to mini bananas. Size choices include 4-5 pound or 8-10 pound boxes. My 5-pound box had almost too much fruit for me to eat alone. Cutting and freezing the leftovers made for some seriously tropical smoothies throughout the week!

for the foodie

Explore Local Box

$45 at CrateJoy

Recipients will taste something new each month with a subscription to the Explore Local box. This tasty and interesting exploration of different American cities offers tons of local fare, plus a little booklet containing info about the city. It was fun trying local Charleston coffee, kettle chips and a bag of sesame seed cookies called “benne wafers,” which I’ve never heard of before. This snack subscription box is an ideal gift of the month club for foodies who go on road trips solely for snacks.

For the Food Network Fan

Alton Brown Cameo

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Alton Brown once said, “Laughing brains are more absorbent.” And this former Food Network star is still just as entertaining as ever! For folks who grew up with Good Eats or Cutthroat Kitchen, getting a personal Cameo video from Alton Brown for Christmas is akin to winning the lottery.

For the Funny One

Smelly Club

$20 at CrateJoy

A candle club is a great gift for almost anyone, but finding one under $25 is challenging. Smelly Club is aptly named, as it offers candles that are just as unique as they are well-crafted. Folks with a sense of humor will delight in unwrapping scents like baked bread, root beer float and biscuits.

“This is a good pick for someone who likes variety and doesn’t mind wacky candles,” says tester Caroline Lubinsky, who tested this candle subscription. Pro-tip: gift alongside a candle warmer lamp for those who have pets or children!

For the Pina Colada Lover

Maui Gold Pineapples

Shop on Goldbelly

Fresh fruit is always a fun gift, but why not add a little tropical flavor to sweeten the deal? Grown on 1,350 acres of land on the slopes of Maui’s Haleakala, Maui Gold pineapples are so decadent, they’re hardly in the same world as typical grocery store ananas. After trying some, I think normal pineapples might be ruined for me now. These are so flavorful!

For the Restauranteur

Gordon Ramsay Teaches Restaurant Recipes at Home

Shop on Masterclass

If your recipient is the type to swear by HexClad, they’ll enjoy learning a few of Chef Ramsay’s techniques in his Masterclass course. The 15-unit class covers time-saving prep, cooking and plating, all presented by the famed Food Network star. They’ll learn a lot and come away with techniques applicable to almost any dish.

On Sale

for the tea lover

Tea Runners Club

30.0020% OFF$24 at CrateJoy

Because of the myriad options available, Tea Runners is equally appealing to both beginners and seasoned drinkers, notes Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski, who tested this subscription as part of our review of different tea subscriptions. Choose from four box options: Black, Pure, Herbal or Original. Each box includes four sampler pouches of tea, 10 tea bags and a postcard with some basic info about the club, tea origins and steeping instructions.

Inside Katie’s box, each tea impressed with its freshness and flavor.“The tea was so delicious—much fresher than any Earl Grey I’ve had before,” says Katie.

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the Budding Bartender

Shaker and Spoon

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59.0015% OFF$49.92 at Crate Joy

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The budding bartender will create craft cocktails fit for the fancy cocktail lounge with a subscription to Shaker and Spoon. Each month’s box comes with all the ingredients required to mix up instagram-worthy drinks, minus the alcohol.

“As a budding mixologist, I was truly blown away by the attention to detail included inside this Ginspirations cocktail kit from Shaker and Spoon,” says Shopping Editor Madi Koetting. “Gin typically isn’t my spirit of choice, so I chose this kit to better understand what ingredients pair well with the liquor and sharpen my gin-based cocktail chops,” adds Madi.

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the Baking Champ

Crumble Crate

54.953% OFF$53 at CrateJoy

Everyone has a friend that’s always bringing the best brownies to the party. Get her a gift that levels up her techniques with a subscription to Crumble Crate! Each month’s box comes with pre-portioned ingredients, a new baking tool and instructions tailored to making one dessert. The focus is on learning new techniques, so it’s a great gift for newbies and practiced bakers alike.

“I appreciate that more specialty ingredients, like almond flour, are included,” says Katie, who learned how to make an apple rose tart. “I didn’t need to buy an entire bag just to use a quarter cup in one recipe.”

The post 27 Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas appeared first on Taste of Home.

Coffee Advent calendars are some of the most popular options for adults, and it’s easy to see why. After all, starting each morning with a holly jolly cup of java is how many of us make it through the season! The Peet’s coffee countdown offers 12 merry mornings’ worth of surprises, spanning both holiday-centric and bestselling blends.

I was ecstatic to see one of my favorite Peet’s blends, Major Dickason’s, as the first surprise. I also enjoyed the festive Mocha Java blend, which features notes of port, cocoa and warming cardamom. Each day brings a new 2.5-ounce bag boasting a new and exciting flavor profile, and each bag covers about five cups of coffee. That’s more than enough caffeine to fuel the entirety of December!

Peets makes some seriously good coffee, so I was smitten with all the included blends and single-origin options. While I would love an option for a whole bean calendar, the medium grind used for this Advent calendar makes it perfect for a drip brewer. Plus, tasting notes are printed on each bag, making it a great pick for more serious coffee fans as well as brew newbies!

Best Tea

Tea Forté Winter Chalet Advent

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While we haven’t tried this year’s Tea Forté Christmas countdown, we have tried the brand’s 24-day tea Advent calendars. Unlike the larger version, this option offers a 12-day fleet of gourmet teas for around $40, making it a great budget buy for the dedicated sippers among us.

“I look forward to this Advent calendar every year. It’s truly one of the most luxurious tea options on the market,” says Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski of the 24-day Warming Joy calendar she tested. “Each tea is packed inside a pretty pyramid box and comes in a pyramid tea infuser with a little leaf at the tip for easy removal of the tea bag once it’s steeped. ”

Katie was impressed by the stunning simplicity of her countdown, which is echoed here in this smaller version. It’s pretty enough to display in the kitchen, and she loves that the overall shape embodies the tea pyramids nestled inside. Plus, the tea offerings alone tell you it’s a high-quality calendar. Tea Forté’s gourmet flavors remind us of the teas served at a luxury spa, with flavors such as Blueberry Merlot and strawberry-infused Chocolate Fondue.

Best Chocolate

Vosges Haut-Chocolat 12 Days of Chocolate

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In our opinion, chocolate Advent calendars aren’t just for kids, especially when it comes to this luxury chocolate countdown. Available from one of our favorite chocolate brands, this smaller version of the show-stopping Vosges calendar is anything but ordinary. Don’t expect boring milk chocolates or waxy textures here! Instead, prepare yourself for a premium tasting experience unlike any other.

“I’m a foodie at heart,” Katie admits, “And I love that this calendar really expands my holiday palate away from plain ol’ milk chocolate and peppermint bark.” She tested the larger calendar, but the delicious chocolates inside span many of the same flavor profiles. Inside are confections like cinnamon hazelnut toadstools and golden lemon bunnies, along with 10 other fantastical flavors.

Most of the doors provide two of each candy, making it a fun and festive way to share the merrymaking with friends and family. While this tinier calendar doesn’t contain the lights, music and inviting extras of the larger Vosges calendar, it also comes in at a much lower price point. This makes it accessible to those who find the bigger calendar just a bit too pricey.

Best Beer

Beer Advent Calendar 2025

$79 at Give Them Beer

Boozy Advent calendars have grown in popularity in recent years. While wine calendars are some of the most popular picks, this 12-day beer Advent calendar speaks to the brewheads among us. The calendar features 12 different fresh craft beer styles, including IPAs, stouts and ales, all sourced from craft breweries across the U.S.

Product Tester Pamela Bondurant notes that it’s not always possible to purchase microbrewery beer from locations across the U.S., which makes this calendar a winner for her. “I love the diversity of beer included in this Advent calendar. There are porters, IPAs, brown ales and more from every coast, and some are in between,” she says. “There’s no product list, so each day truly is a surprise when you pull your beer from the calendar.”

We tested both the 2023 and 2024 versions, and the 2025 looks virtually identical to last year’s. Pro tip: Keep the box in the fridge so your brew chills to perfection. Then go ahead and order up a beer of the month club so the fun never ends!

Most Unique

12 Days of Pickles Advent Calendar

Shop on Give Them Beer

We’ve tried several of the unique Advent calendars from GiveThemBeer.com, but this pickle Advent calendar may be the most interesting option available. If you’re the type to order extra pickles on your burgers, this is the Advent calendar for you. This dill-icious countdown comes stuffed with pickle-flavored treats and briny merch galore.

From pickle chips to pickle-flavored lip balm, each tangy treat inside this pickle Advent calendar is bound to bring a smile to fans of the salty snack. I love that inclusions range from edible snacks like pickle-flavored cashews to practical items like pickle socks. It’s a well-curated gift that makes a fun white elephant present, too.

Unboxing each day was truly a surprise—I had no idea what I’d uncover next. While my favorite inclusions were, of course, the snacks, I also really appreciate that there is a good blend of edible and non-edible items. It makes for a truly dynamic Advent calendar experience, which is saying something considering how many Christmas countdown calendars I’ve tried through the years.

Best White Elephant Gift

Googly and Bright Advent Calendar

$25 at Brass Monkey

$25 at Galison

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In my humble opinion, a little dose of humor makes everything better—especially the holidays. That’s why I’m in love with this Googly and Bright Advent calendar, which features 12 ornaments, each adorned with a silly set of googly eyes. The ornaments are primarily riffing off traditional Christmas foods and flair. Each also has a little sassy message to go along with it, making for a memorable and hilarious gift.

This calendar sparks so much joy. From the colorful, whimsical details to the funny little quotes and googly eyes, it’s such a cute idea. I also love that the ornaments are reusable and sturdy, so I can enjoy them year after year! Note that, while most of the jokes and quips are kid-friendly, a few reference alcohol, so this may be better suited to adults.

After opening this Advent calendar, I sped over to Galison’s website and purchased two more for gifting. At under $30, it’s such an inexpensive and fun way to bring a big belly laugh to your family’s gift exchanges. Everyone can use more silly ornaments, after all!

Best Wine

Vinebox 12 Nights of Wine

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A good wine is like art, and this Vinebox Advent calendar certainly delivers. We’ve tested each year from 2023 onwards, and it’s always a hit with our testers. This year’s assortments are arranged by Brights and Bolds, both in a 12-day format. The brights collection focuses on whites and rosés, plus a few distinctive reds. The bolds collection focuses on sumptuous reds and whites, making it a great option for those who prefer drier varieties.

The Art Deco–inspired packaging on this year’s calendar is absolutely stunning and sure to impress any wine connoisseur on your gift list. While the vials contain just under a standard pour of wine, the wines themselves are very high-quality—nothing like you’d find in a grocery store. Plus, these spirits arrive with pairing notes and access to a sommelier-led virtual tasting for each pick.

“I love that these wines come in sleek glass tubes that help preserve their flavor,” says Mary. “Each has a convenient twist top, making them easy to open and pour—no corks to fuss with.” Bonus: there’s also a 24 Nights of Wine collection containing both assortments to keep the tasting experience going all December long.

Best Ornaments

Enchanted Forest 12 Days of Animal Ornaments

$49 at Amazon

Even those short on space can enjoy a fun and memorable Advent calendar experience. The Freshcut Paper Advent calendar features 12 ornaments, each tucked inside a beautiful card. The ornaments all unfold into a stunning 3-D shape, making this an Advent calendar that truly feels like opening a gift each day!

“Even though they’re paper, these are luxe ornaments,” says Katie, who tested the calendar. “They would look lovely on any tree or even hung around a mantel. This is also an Advent calendar that’s great for sharing. I could totally tuck one of these inside a Christmas card for a fun add-on gift that’s easy to mail.”

“I’ve tested many FreshCut Paper Advent calendars, and this new version for 2025 makes a lovely gift,” continues Katie. “I love that the paper ornaments can be reused year over year, and the animal designs are oh-so sweet. Plus, some Advent calendars have a massive footprint. I love that this sleek set takes up very little space.”

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Lowest Price in 30 daysBest Puzzle

Home for the Holidays 12 Days of Puzzles

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24.9935% OFF$16.20 at Amazon

Nothing says “cozy” quite like picking up a nightly puzzle with hot cocoa in hand. Now, you can pair this favorite winter pastime with an element of surprise! The Home for the Holidays puzzle countdown provides 12 nights of puzzles fit for the cozy evenings leading up to Christmas.

Each day reveals a new mini puzzle that fits into a larger picture. The bite-sized packages make it much easier to finish this 500-piece puzzle in a limited time frame, so it’s great for kids or easily distracted adults. As someone who loves puzzles, seeing the artwork grow each day is such a fun reminder of the impending holidays!

Plus, I love that this can be framed and used as yearly holiday decor. It’s just such a relaxing way to spend your pre-holiday evenings, especially paired with one of the spirit Advent calendars. If you love puzzles, check out a puzzle of the month club and keep the fun going month after month!

Best Beauty

Poppy & Pout Advent Calendar

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Calling folks who feel lip care is under-appreciated! Snag the Poppy & Pout Advent calendar while it’s still in stock. Inside are so many full-sized lip-enhancing products that you’ll be dishing out the softest kisses through Valentine’s Day. It’s the perfect present for those who prioritize supple smooches over skincare any day.

The calendar comes overflowing primarily with the brand’s signature lip care items, including scrubs, masks and balms. Each one boasts a fun, festive flavor like sugarplum, candy can fluff and marshmallow. Several of the products coordinate scents, so you end up with a full lip care set for most of the flavors at the end of the 12 days!

I absolutely love the sturdy feel and gorgeous packaging of this option, which makes it great for gifting. Each inclusion is made in small batches and arrives in a recyclable tube or jar. Plus, it’s a solid bargain. You get 12 full-sized products, so it works out to around $8 per item. With the lip masks and scrubs retailing for $14 each and the balms for $10 each, you actually get a really great deal on these products!

How We Tested

As always with our Advent calendar testing, we began by evaluating the technical details like overall packaging and shipping experience. Because 12-day countdowns offer fewer surprises than their 24-day counterparts, the quality of each inclusion matters much more—as does the price point. We tried to stick with options under $100, aside from a few 12-day Christmas countdown calendars that really impressed.

The total value of each calendar was carefully considered and weighed against the purchase price. For foodie countdowns that include treats that are prone to spoiling, we evaluated their overall taste and freshness over the course of several weeks. Bonus points if they include limited edition goodies you can’t find anywhere else!

Other 12-Day Advent Calendars We Tested

• 12 Days of Hot Sauce: I am obsessed with the idea of a hot sauce calendar, and the included sauces were a great variety and super tasty. However, the sauces completely shifted inside the calendar, meaning that many of the sauces became buried in the packaging. Nothing hurts more than opening up that first day and seeing a blank space where a hot sauce should be—and repeating that experience 12 times.
• 12 Days of Nuts: The packaging is very cute, but it unfortunately ruins all the surprises. All the tins arrive labeled and visible right out of the box. That said, this is a fun (and delicious!) calendar for the nut lover.
• 12 Days of Whiskey: While this Advent calendar didn’t ultimately make the cut, it’s still a great gift—especially when paired with a Flaviar calendar!
• Anthropologie 12-Day Advent Calendar: While we couldn’t get our hands on this year’s 24-day countdown, Anthropologie’s more compact 12-day Advent calendar was fun to open. The packaging is colorful and inviting, so it makes a great gift for beauty lovers. That said, nearly all the items are travel-size, so we felt that even $50 was a bit overpriced.
• Charlotte Tilbury Advent Calendar: While we absolutely adored the packaging and mix of products in this beauty Advent calendar, we also find the price a bit elevated for a 12-day Christmas countdown calendar.
• FabFitFun Advent Calendar: While we love the inclusions, this calendar requires a little extra effort to buy. It’s available to members at $89.99 and non-members for $89.99 + $5 shopping club sign-up.
• Fly by Jing Hot Sauce Advent Calendar: The Fly by Jing 12-day Christmas countdown is the calendar for fiery folk. Not only does it offer a number of Fly By Jing’s famous flavors, but there are inclusions here that you literally can’t find anywhere else—even through the brand’s website! Sadly, it sold out very quickly.
• Give Them Beer Jerky Calendar: We loved that this 12-day Christmas countdown calendar contains a dozen full-sized packages of jerky, all hailing from gourmet and small-batch brands. We loved the fresh flavors and value, but it is unfortunately sold out for the season.
• Give Them Beer Moonshine Calendar: This one, unfortunately, fell a bit flat. The packaging was simply a plain box, and the contents arrived a bit dusty. It included only one holiday flavor, which felt disappointing given that the featured brands offer several festive options like eggnog, peppermint and other seasonal varieties. Our tester recommends skipping this one and going for the Ole Smoky calendar if you’re looking for a moonshine Advent calendar.
• Give Them Beer Sparkling Wine Advent Calendar: While we opted for a different wine Advent calendar for this piece, we really enjoyed this sparkling wine calendar. It’s a fun pick for folks who want to toast their way through the holidays!
• HomeWorx by Slatkin + Co. 12 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar: While we enjoy a festive candle, the “calendar” aspect is a bit of a loose interpretation. While the packaging shows numbers, the entire insert comes out, so there are no doors or surprise elements included.
• Maker Canned Wine Advent Calendar: This calendar includes 12 different canned wines representing different varietals, with white, red, rosé and sparkling present. Each hails from award-winning female and minority-led winemakers. While it’s not customizable like our top wine pick, it’s still plenty of fun!
• Murray’s Cheese Advent Calendar: The Murray’s Advent calendar is a staple in my home year after year, and this year’s spread didn’t disappoint. Bursting with two pounds (!!!) of cheese and a number of delicious accompaniments, Murray’s countdown is a delightful descent into cheesy paradise. Unfortunately, it is now sold out for 2025.
• Ole Smokey Countdown: If you’re shopping for a spirits lover, this Advent calendar is a delight—featuring 12 mini jars of moonshine to sip and savor throughout the holiday season. That said, we wish that the brand included their signature holiday flavors—it feels like a missed opportunity for them to shine!
• Saje Advent Calendar: While we absolutely adored the items in this wellness Advent calendar, it sold out almost immediately! We’re hoping it comes back in stock soon.
• Voluspa Heritage Countdown Calendar:This 12-day calendar is filled with petite pedestal candles—some in festive seasonal scents and others perfect for everyday burning. It even includes a pretty gold wick trimmer for an extra touch of charm! Unfortunately, it sold out—we hope it comes back soon!
• Winter Lights 12 Days of Puzzles: This is still a great pick for those who prefer a different design, even though we ultimately chose the other puzzle Advent calendar we tested.
• Wizarding World 12 Days of Hot Chocolate: While the color-changing aspect of this hot cocoa calendar was fun, each day tasted the same, which took away some of the thrill.

What To Look For When Buying a Christmas Countdown Calendar

When it comes to 12-day Christmas countdown calendars, it’s quality over quantity. Because these smaller Advent calendars boast fewer fun treats, each inclusion faces double the pressure to wow us as we unbox. When shopping for one of these 12-day Advent calendars for yourself, we recommend identifying some of your favorite hobbies or foods first. There’s a 12-day countdown that covers almost every niche, so there’s no need to settle for the same old waxy chocolate every year.

These smaller Christmas countdown calendars also make great gifts, especially since they’re usually less expensive than their larger counterparts. When looking for a 12-day Advent calendar to gift, think about the recipient’s interests and dislikes, noting any allergies or aversions. Don’t be afraid to get really specific—take this as an opportunity to delight and surprise them!

FAQ

How does a Christmas countdown calendar work?

One of the reasons 12-day Advent calendars are fun is that they’re more flexible than their 24-day counterparts. For calendars with 12 surprises, start opening on December 13 for a present-filled lead-up to the holidays. Or, replicate the traditional way and open day one on Christmas day, then enjoy gifts into the new year!

Why You Should Trust Us

From foodie Advent calendars to Advent calendars for kids, we’ve tried over 100 of the most popular Christmas countdowns in the past three years. Since 2022, I’ve written and edited content for national print and digital publications, including Taste of Home, Reader’s Digest and more. I’m well-versed in curating the internet to help readers find the absolute best buys worthy of their wallets. I’m also Taste of Home’s resident Advent calendar expert. I’ve researched and tested dozens of holiday countdowns across every category to find the absolute best ones for 2025.

The post The Best ’12 Days of Christmas’ Countdown Calendars appeared first on Taste of Home.

Sale price: $356 | Original price: $675

Not only does the brand’s signature ceramic cookware set look absolutely gorgeous (and it comes with storage, to boot), but each piece offers a slick surface that makes sticking a thing of the past. Now, you can pick up the full set at a savings of 47%! In our editors’ tests, the pans stay slick with proper care, which includes swapping metal for soft utensils and using low to medium heat.

“I’ve had the complete set since 2020, and it’s a joy to cook with,” says product tester Lisa Kaminski. “They perform well, clean up easily and look beautiful on the table.”

Utensil Set

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Sale price: $123.25 | Original price: $145

I’ve had my utensil set for over a year. In that time, this prep set has stirred, sautéed and sizzled through countless dishes. Included tools feature tongs, a pasta server, a spoon, a bowl scraper and a spatula for flipping eggs and grilled cheese. While wooden tools are normally not my cup of tea, these don’t stain or splinter like other options I’ve tried.

Bonus: Because they’re made from FSC-certified birch wood, the tools are light and easy to use and won’t scratch or mar ceramic pans like metal tools would. Snag a set and score a savings of $36!

Cutting Board Set

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Sale price: $191.25 | Original price: $310

Carving up charcuterie? This cutting board set is made without microplastics or forever chemicals, making it a cleaner alternative for health-conscious folks. A dual-sided design ensures plenty of prep space, while the clever indents ensure a secure spot for chopped chives. We also love that these are made from knife-friendly wood and include storage for even easier cleanup.

Now, shoppers can slash 38% off the smaller four-piece set. Or, secure a savings of 40% on the seven-piece set, which includes butcher blocks as well!

Ceramic Fry Pan

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Sale price: $106.25 | Original price: $125

Everyone needs a good, solid frying pan. Of all the pieces in the full cookware set, the ceramic fry pan has to be our favorite for gifting. This slick kitchen superhero takes the elbow grease out of cleanup, ensuring that evening meals stay fuss-free. Pick up a pan as a gift for your favorite budding chef and enjoy a markdown ahead of the holidays.

“The non-toxic ceramic coating is no joke,” tester Madi Koetting says. “I’m very careful about cooking on medium to low heat, which is recommended for protecting the ceramic coating. Food still glides off with ease even after several weeks of cooking with the nonstick pan.”

Glass Airtight Container Set

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Sale price: $250.75 | Original price: $375

Christmas baking is a breeze with this glass airtight container set. Featuring complimentary storage and two stainless steel scoops, this pantry storage set is perfect for keeping cookie ingredients fresh. A true airtight seal ensures no air, pests or moisture seeps inside.

Pick up an assortment of five canisters in four different sizes to ensure secure storage for flour, cocoa powder and dusting sugar. These modular containers are also more affordable than ever, thanks to a generous 33% markdown!

Ceramic Bakeware Set

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Sale price: $356 | Original price: $600

Caraway’s ceramic bakeware set is just as nonstick as its stovetop cousins, especially given its sleek ceramic coating and evenly-heating aluminum core. It comes with everything needed for some serious holiday treat making, including two baking sheets, cake, brownie and loaf pans, plus a 12-cup muffin tin, cooling rack and organizer.

“There’s no denying that Caraway bakeware is pricey, but there’s also no denying that it’s worth every single penny,” says tester Allison T.S. Robicelli in her review of the bakeware, which is currently available at a savings of $244. “This is a bakeware set that, if cared for correctly, may very well last you a lifetime. It’s a worthwhile investment that will likely save you money in the long run.”

Food Storage Set

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Sale price: $225.25 | Original price: $360

This food storage set offers built-in dividers and dot inserts that keep ingredients like sauces or crunchy toppings separate. Made from ceramic-coated glass and microwave, oven, freezer and dishwasher safe, these storage containers are capable of more than the average vessel. Pick up an assortment for holiday leftovers and enjoy a savings of $134!

Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski says her set has held up beautifully for three years, though the lids can be tight and the glass a bit heavy. “All in, I love this set,” Katie says. “This could be a great investment for the minimalist who wants to serve and store in the same vessel.”

Minis Duo

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Sale price: $191.25 | Original price: $270

Cooking for one? These mini-but-mighty pans are up for the task. The mini cookware duo makes the perfect pair of pans for single servings and leftovers. They’re also currently available at a savings of around $80!

“As someone who often cooks for just one or two people, I appreciate smaller cookware sizes because they keep me from having loads of leftovers,” says Madi in her Caraway cookware mini review. “I heat up soup, make homemade pasta sauce and cook rice in the saucepan, and I’m always impressed with how much it holds.”

Cookware and Minis Set

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Sale price: $502.50 | Original price: $945

Are the savings so good that you can’t decide what to splurge on? This cookware plus minis set offers the best of both worlds. Normally retailing for $945, this clever bundle brings with it a savings of $442 during the Caraway Black Friday sale. It’s the ideal two-for-one deal for “one for you, one for me” shoppers!

How We Tested Caraway

To date, we’ve tried a wide assortment of popular picks from Caraway. Our tests span multiple pieces of cookware, the prep set, bakeware and food storage containers from the brand. So far, we’ve been extremely impressed with each piece of kitchenware we’ve cooked with.

As part of our ceramic cookware tests, we tried Caraway’s ceramic frying pan alongside 18 other options. For each pan, we cooked up a chicken tenderloin, flipped over easy eggs and whipped up a mean crepe. After all was said and done, Caraway ranked as “most stylish,” a badge it wears very well. Many of our editors have also used Caraway cookware in their personal kitchens.

“I’ve been using Caraway cookware since 2021. I started with the Dutch oven and sauté pan, and though both pieces have since retired from my kitchen, I am still using a frying pan from February 2024,” says Katie. “The sauté pan quickly became my go-to for cooking rice dishes, browning veggies, boiling one-pot pasta and frying eggs.” While Katie had to replace her pan after a little too much abuse with heat and metal tools, she notes that so far her new set is holding up very well.

“This time, I’ve been very careful to follow the instructions to a tee—and so far, so good. Fresh out of the box, this pan offers one of the slickest coatings I’ve experienced. It’s perfect for scrambling eggs or cooking delicate proteins,” she says.

FAQ

Does Caraway go on sale?

Caraway does have sales, but they usually only take place a few times a year. The Black Friday sale going on now is one of the best times to stock up!

What is the Caraway Black Friday sale?

This year’s Caraway Black Friday sale offers up to 25% off site-wide! This includes savings on the brand’s signature ceramic cookware.

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The post The Caraway Black Friday Sale Is Here! (And It’s the Best Time to Stock Up) appeared first on Taste of Home.

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The Bake Eat Love Box is perfect for anyone who’s just starting their baking journey or seasoned home cooks. It includes easy-to-follow recipes along with pictures illustrating key steps. You can look forward to tackling recipes like s’mores baked Alaska, birthday cake macarons and lavender panna cotta. Each box comes with a baking tool or other bonus item, too!

My box arrived with a recipe for bananas Foster sticky buns. Inside, nearly all the ingredients required—minus milk, butter and bananas—came pre-portioned in bags. A small wooden rolling pin is provided to flatten out the dough prior to rolling and cutting the buns. Other than that, every other required tool is an essential baking supply that was already in my kitchen. As someone who has never prepared sticky buns from scratch, I found the recipe surprisingly simple to follow. Ingredients for both the buns and topping come packaged separately, so it’s easy to see exactly what to use for which step at a glance.

There is an option to flambé the topping prior to adding it to the buns, though I chose to save my tiny apartment the potential (while unlikely) fire hazard. However, I do love that there’s the option to practice a more advanced technique in an otherwise straightforward recipe. I also found the included tips for working with yeast very thoughtful, especially for folks like me who start sweating at the very mention of proofing dough.

If I need extra help, a QR code is provided on the recipe card for video tutorials. The recipe even includes actual measurements for the ingredients in case I want to make them again (believe me, I will). Plenty of additional blurbs—like how to cut the rolls and a few ingredient spotlights—really round out this learning experience. It’s an excellent pick for both seasoned bakers and those looking to expand their sweet culinary horizons.

Do note: these kits are manufactured in facilities that handle wheat, nuts, eggs, dairy, and other potential allergens, so they may not be suitable for individuals with sensitivities to these major allergens, even when the recipes themselves don’t contain a specific allergen. Additionally, those who are looking for out-of-the-box flavor profiles and adventurous recipes may find Bake Eat Love a bit underwhelming. The flavors lean heavily toward traditional, which is not a bad thing but worth knowing if your intent is different.

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Baketivity

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34.9517% OFF$28.95 at Crate Joy

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Whether it’s a rainy day or you need a snack for movie night, the Baketivity baking kit gets the whole family involved for delicious fun. Former Shopping Editor Caitlyn Fitzpatrick tested the brand’s cake pop kit, which makes roughly a dozen chocolate cake pops with rainbow sprinkles.

“I love that all of the dry ingredients come pre-measured, so it’s just a matter of opening each one and pouring into the appropriate mixing bowl,” says Caitlyn. Although the required perishable ingredients aren’t included, there isn’t anything needed that probably isn’t already in your kitchen, including an egg, butter, oil and hot water. “I like that although this kit is made for families and kids, it has you make everything from scratch. So, you can have kids as involved as you’d like in making the cake batter and frosting,” says Fitzpatrick. “And if this is an activity you’re accomplishing with multiple kids, there are enough things to do that no one will feel left out.”

One downside of the Baketivity cake pop kit, specifically, is that it has a couple stretches of long down time. So fingers crossed your kid is OK with waiting for the cake to cool before crumbling it and for the cake balls to sit in the freezer for an hour before dipping them into the melted chocolate.

“My daughter is too young to join me in the kitchen right now, but I would absolutely break out a Baketivity baking kit with her. I think she’d get a kick out of the included chef hat and apron, and, of course, the finished result would be super tasty,” says Caitlyn.

Customer reviews are majority positive. Verified reviewer Kristen MacFarland says of the pretzel making kit, “My kids and I had a great time making these pretzels. Love that all the ingredients are pre-measured and individually packaged and just the right size for my kids to participate. High-quality cooking kit with all the essentials for a fully functional pretzel baking experience. I wish the price was slightly cheaper, as I’d like to purchase more. But the kit makes a decent amount of pretzels considering the price. Not only was it a great experience but the pretzels tasted great!”

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Crumble Crate

54.953% OFF$53 at Crate Joy

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If you can’t remember the last time you tried something new in the kitchen, snag a subscription to Crumble Crate and shake things up a bit. This mid-to-advanced level baking subscription box offers a chance to learn new presentation skills, try innovative techniques and enjoy rare ingredients without ever heading to the grocery store. Each monthly shipment includes pre-portioned ingredients, baking tools and a recipe card with a QR code with instructional videos, shopping lists and tips. While some recipes are simple yet delicious, most offer a healthy challenge for experienced home cooks.

Our kit for the apple rose tart included essential tools, like a tart pan and pastry cutter. All tools included were high quality, though the recipe assumes that bakers already have a few pie tools (like pie weights and a pastry brush). Dry ingredients come pre-portioned. Most of the ingredients required come in the box, aside from a few humble ingredients like apples, butter, eggs and lemon juice that are pretty easy to source.

“I really appreciate that more specialty ingredients, like almond flour, are included,” says Deputy Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski. “This was nice because I didn’t need to buy an entire bag just to use a quarter cup in one recipe. The kit came with a nice full-sized sheet of instructions.”

Even as an experienced baker, Katie felt like this kit was a learning experience. “The directions were easy to follow, although I wish some were broken up into multiple steps. I had to re-read the frangipane and apple roses steps multiple times to ensure I was doing things correctly. I’ll also admit that the apple roses were challenging. They did not want to roll into roses. The good thing is that the tart still looks pretty, even if you don’t get perfect roses or you just stick in the slices,” she says. “This was as much an art project as it was a baking project.”

Despite this, her tart turned out stellar, and she learned a few new things along the way. We consider Crumble Crate a great pick for experienced bakers looking for inspiration or a new baking challenge. Crumble Crate reviews online are lacking, but from what we can see, the sentiment is positive, with buyers happily reporting that the boxes make them feel like pro bakers. However, it’s tough to know if these reviews are verified since they appear only on the Crumble Crate listing on Cratejoy. On Amazon, there are a handful of reviews, also positive. Maureen Bryan, verified purchaser, wrote, “Delighted that I ordered the Baking Box from Crumble Crate. I do not do a lot of baking, so loved the pre measured ingredients and detailed instructions.”

Best Bread Baking

Wildgrain

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If bread is your carb of choice, but you have no patience for proofing, then Wildgrain is the baking subscription box you’ve been looking for. This bread and pastry box offers a delightful assortment of ready-to-bake treats like English muffins, sourdough, brioche rolls and macarons, conveniently delivered to your doorstep every month. They even have a gluten-free option!

The best part? These delectable baked goods go straight from the freezer to your table in just 25 minutes—no need to remember to defrost them beforehand! Each delivery features a different selection, and you have the flexibility to pause your subscription or adjust its frequency at any time.

“The quality of the products is wonderful, with beautiful textures and great flavor,” shares former bakery owner and expert writer Molly Allen in her Wildgrain review. “Whether you’re looking for a gift for a bread baker or simply searching for a way to avoid separate trips to the local bakery, it’s a fantastic way to try new breads and pastries and keep them consistently stocked.”

While our tester’s experience with Wildgrain was overwhelmingly positive, other customers have unfortunately not been so lucky. On r/Breadit, we’ve seen complaints about slow or unresponsive customer support and boxes being destroyed during shipping. The latter is not really Wildgrain’s fault, but customers report an unwillingness or delay in solving the issue on Wildgrain’s part, i.e., offering a refund or even a discounted or free future box.

Still, plenty of subscribers are happy with the service and product. One Redditor writes, “Have gotten three boxes so far. It’s easy to delay or cancel boxes so that it works with your schedule. Honestly, I haven’t gotten any duds in the boxes. I am a giant fan of their chocolate chip cookies and my husband said the pizza was unexpectedly good. I think it’s pricey but it’s kind of magic how well it all reheats.”

Best for Specialty Desserts

Red Velvet NYC

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Want to feel challenged while still feeling supported in your culinary expeditions? Red Velvet NYC is one of the most well-known baking subscription boxes out there, and for good reason. Each monthly box includes not one, but two gourmet recipes with simple instructions that cover a wide variety of baking techniques. The desserts range in skill level, but expect to learn something new from every box. The best part? If you find a recipe you love, it’s easy to repurchase it on the baking kit storefront.

I tried the recipe for the Linzer heart cookies. Out of all the boxes I personally tested, this one taught me the most in terms of technique. While a bit challenging, I could practically feel myself leveling up as a baker as I worked through the recipe. The Linzer dough is sticky, delicate and required frequent trips back to the fridge as I cut out the hearts and transferred them to the baking sheet.

However, this was by no means a difficult recipe, and it was also the most rewarding experience I had testing baking boxes. Especially after my husband, already wowed by the delicate beauty of the cookies, took his first bite and earnestly exclaimed, “You made these?!” I felt like punching my hand into the air a la Rocky Balboa. Forget my proudest baking subscription box moment—this may have been my proudest baking moment ever.

Overall, this is my top pick for home cooks and budding bakers that have a desire to crank their culinary skills up a notch or two. It was tough, but by no means limited to experienced bakers, and I definitely learned a few valuable tricks to take with me in my future bakes. Better yet, this is one recipe I can see myself making again in the future as a food gift or bring along as a party showstopper.

Do note that you’ll need to make a grocery run for certain ingredients: Red Velvet NYC subscriptions don’t include perishables like eggs and butter. That said, certain kits do include things like cupcake liners and piping bags, so you can scratch those off your shopping list when you order.

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BaKit Box

89.9916% OFF$75 at Crate Joy

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Take your tastebuds on a world tour without worrying about airfare or lost luggage with the BaKit Box. Full of international flavors and family-friendly flair, this baking subscription box offers pre-portioned ingredients for one globally inspired recipe every quarter.

My box arrived with a recipe card for South African black pepper chocolate cookies and enough dry ingredients to make about 24 cookies. Ingredients have clear labels, and each recipe sheet offers additional activities on the back, like word searches and taste test challenges. Apart from typical baking tools like mixing bowls, a whisk, a spatula, baking sheets and plastic wrap, the recipe required eggs, salt and butter from my kitchen. The concept itself was a fun idea—spicy and sweet, anyone?—and the activities on the recipe explored the different types of peppercorns, making it a great learning experience overall.

The recipes are easy enough to involve the kiddos, but they’re also delicious enough to entice adults, too. I never thought of trying black pepper and cardamom in a chocolate cookie. However, I can definitely see myself breaking out this recipe again. The cookies were chocolatey, moist and pleasantly peppery while still offering an indulgent sweetness. If you’re interested in trying recipes from other parts of the world, sign up for this one ASAP.

Verified reviewer Brooklyn says BaKit boxes are great for entertaining, writing in a review, “I have to entertain adults and kids, which can be challenging. This was literally the perfect solution. Not only does it provide nearly everything you need to bake, which kids love to do, but there is an educational angle to it, which is interesting and something I haven’t seen before.”

Another verified reviewer, Romi T., loved the STEM education element and ingredient choices. “My 7 year old was able to pour and mix 90% of the ingredients on his own and he loved the booklet that talked all about the Earth and how what he was making tied back to what he was reading. The ingredients are very high quality (spirulina instead of food dye is genius and healthy!).”

One downside to BaKit is that there’s only one option for a one-off purchase: the Bake & Explore 3-Kit Bundle. This box  includes three international baking kits, with themes changing every quarter. Other than this box, you must subscribe on a one-, three- or six-month basis.

 What to Look for When Buying a Baking Subscription Box

“Subscriptions boxes can be a super fun and approachable way to bake, especially if you’re short on time or don’t have easy access to high quality ingredients,” says Laura Kasavan, professional baker and founder of Tutti Dolci Baking Recipes.

Before you start baking, it’s important to consider a few key details to ensure the best baking subscription is a good fit for your needs.

Type and Difficulty

First, think about the type of baked goods or treats you want to make. Are you eager to learn new cookie-baking skills or try fresh homemade desserts on a monthly basis? Perhaps you’re interested in experimenting with new bread-baking recipes.

Additionally, contemplate the level of involvement you desire in your baking experience. Some boxes offer ready-to-bake options, requiring no mixing or measuring, while others provide pre-measured ingredients and detailed instructions to help you master the recipe. Lastly, think about your skill level. Some of the boxes on this list are best suited to those with prior baking experience, while others are tailored for families, kids and kitchen newbies.

Dietary Restrictions

Dietary restrictions can make it hard to find a baking subscription box, but there are a few that can accommodate those who are vegan or gluten-intolerant. Pay close attention to ingredient lists and look for certification before ordering with an allergy. Many kits may be gluten- or vegan-friendly but can’t eliminate the risk of cross-contamination.

Tools and Equipment

Many baking subscription boxes include accessories and tools for curating the perfect baked goods. For example, the Bake Eat Love and Crumble Crate boxes we tested included necessary equipment like a rolling pin and tart pan. This is particularly helpful for those who aren’t used to baking and don’t have all the go-to tools for different baked goods. That said, be prepared with any baking kit to provide some basics, like mixing bowls, cookie sheets, spatulas, etc.

Variety

Are you looking for a niche baking subscription? Brands like Wildgrain cater specifically to bread lovers, for example, while others, like Doughp, focus only on cookie dough. If you’re looking for an educational (and tasty) activity for kids, BaKIT boxes nurture a child’s love of baking while also sneaking in some learning about other cultures, too.

How We Found the Best Baking Subscription Boxes

There are dozens of baking subscription boxes out there, each with its own skill level, price point and specialties. In order to narrow down our list, we first researched 15 baking boxes, looking at value, skill level, breadth of offerings and inclusions. From there, our team chose 10 to test. While testing in our own kitchens, we kept in mind typical ingredients and tools in the average person’s home. Four of the boxes were tested in an apartment with limited space to see how well they performed in a smaller kitchen.

Each of the boxes featured ticked our boxes in the following categories:

• Price compared to value
• Packaging and shipping quality
• Quality of ingredients
• Clarity of instructions
• How well the recipe matched the purported skill level
• Any extra tools or ingredients needed
• Number of servings
• Number of ingredients included
• Total cost of extra ingredients needed (usually perishables such as butter, milk, eggs)

FAQ

How do you start a baking subscription box?

Most baking subscription boxes can be started by signing up on the brand’s website and selecting the type of baked goods you want, the frequency you want them and the quantity desired. Many subscriptions also offer the option of pausing their subscription if you need a little break.

What’s included in a baking subscription box?

“Ideally, subscription boxes will include pre-measured ingredients, a well-tested recipe with step-by-step instructions, a visual guide (either process photos, a video link to follow along, or both) and any speciality tools necessary to complete the project,” says Laura.

Though every baking subscription box is different, the majority include step-by-step instructions, pre-measured ingredients and any necessary toppings or garnishes. Some boxes may come with kitchen tools, too. There are also bake-from-frozen boxes offering pre-made dough or pastries that simply just need to be popped in the oven—no mixing or measuring required.

What are must-have tools for bakers?

Although some baking subscription boxes include some tools, it’s good to have some of the basics on hand.

“A good set of mixing bowls, a whisk and a silicone spatula are all must-have tools. I also recommend a roll of parchment paper,” says Laura. “If a box is pie-focused, you may need to have a rolling pin or pie dish on hand. If a box is cake-focused, you may need a rotating cake stand, offset spatula, and piping tools. For more specific projects, make sure you have any additional tools beyond what’s included in the box.”

Are baking subscription boxes good for experienced bakers?

It depends! “While some baking boxes are specifically geared at beginning bakers, they can also be a fun and rewarding project for more experienced bakers who want to try out a new skill or take on a fresh challenge in the kitchen,” says Laura. “They’re a great way to elevate your skills and help you learn techniques that you can incorporate in future baking projects.”

The baking subscription boxes that come with pre-measured ingredients and instructions are a fun way to experiment with new recipes. Although, we understand that experienced bakers may find them too simple. More than anything, they’re an entertaining, time-saving option for trying new goodies, no matter your skill level.

Are baking subscription boxes worth it?

Baking subscription kits are certainly more expensive than a store-bought mix, but if you prefer to bake from scratch or are looking to expand your repertoire, you will likely find value in having a subscription. For experienced bakers looking to level-up their skills, a baking subscription kit offers a way to learn new techniques and master unique recipes.

Why You Should Trust Us

As someone who has tested dozens of the best subscription boxes and can’t get enough of home-baked goodies, baking subscription boxes are right in my wheelhouse. I’m a home cook with over 10 years of experience mixing, baking and experimenting with recipes. What started as a simple hobby quickly became my passion, and now I work full time as Taste of Home’s Shopping Editor, where I’m in charge of gift guides and testing new and delicious finds like snack subscriptions and cheese clubs.

For this piece, we also consulted Laura Kasavan, a professional baker and recipe developer with over a decade of experience. She’s also the founder and creator behind popular baking and desserts site Tutti Dolci Baking Recipes.

Monica Petrucci, Content Updates Editor at Taste of Home, updated and contributed research to this piece. She is a writer and editor with several years of experience covering home and commerce topics, with work published in Food & Wine, USA Today, AOL and more.

The post 6 Best Baking Subscription Boxes for Every Type of Baker [Tested and Reviewed] appeared first on Taste of Home.

Before you go ahead and add this pressure canner to your cart, Canning Diva Diane Devereaux advises taking your needs into account. “Look for a pressure canner size and cost that fit both your lifestyle and your budget. Capacity is the key factor,” she says. “A smaller 15-quart model or an electric canner might suit someone preserving four quart jars at a time, while a larger 23-quart stovetop model is great for high yield preserving, often giving the home canner the ability to double stack the jars inside the canner.”

The Presto electric pressure canner is available in 12- and 17-quart capacities and is perfect for small batch canning. Once you decide which size is right for you, make sure to also add these canning supplies to your cart so you can get started right away.

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What is an Electric Pressure Canner?

Diane explains that a pressure canner is a home appliance designed for preserving food in jars. “It does this by trapping steam, which creates pressure (PSI) so the contents are heated beyond boiling,” she says. “Reaching temperatures upwards of 250 degrees Fahrenheit makes it possible to safely preserve food in jars for long-term, shelf-stable sustenance.”

Additionally, the National Center for Home Food Preservation explains how the canning process destroys harmful microorganisms and inactivates enzymes that could cause food to spoil. During the process, air is driven from the jar or can during heating and, as it cools, a vacuum seal is formed. This vacuum seal prevents air from getting back into the product bringing with it microorganisms to recontaminate the food.

How We Tested It

This summer, staff writer and professional chef Lindsay Mattison replaced her stovetop canner with the 12-quart Presto electric pressure canner and documented her experience. “I originally got this for pressure canning only. My previous Presto pressure canner is aluminum and doesn’t work on my new induction stove,” she explains. “As soon as I tried the electric pressure canner, I stopped using the stovetop for water bath canning, too. It really takes the guesswork out of canning and makes me want to do more of it!”

The Presto electric pressure canner arrived in a large, sturdy box. Along with the pressure canner base and removable nonstick pot, Lindsay found a regulator, sealing ring, lid, canning rack, cord, user manual and quick-start guide, which she found especially helpful. “The quick-start guide is really handy,” raves Lindsay. “I like that it’s laminated so I can keep it by the canner while I’m working. It has the pressure canning method on one side and the water bath method on the other.”

In addition to the straightforward user manual and laminated quick-start guide, Lindsay was delighted to find that the appliance itself walked her through the canning process. “I love that you set the program when you turn the unit on, and it walks you through the canning process,” she raves. “No more setting timers or needing to adjust the stovetop setting to maintain the right pressure. It’s fully set-it-and-forget-it.”

Once she finished setting up her Presto electric pressure canner, Lindsay was ready to pressure can tomatoes and okra, and water bath can okra pickles. Overall, she found that using an electric pressure canner was very similar to pressure canning with a traditional stovetop. “It’s very similar, except I don’t have to manage the heat level of the stove or pay attention to time, temperature or PSI during the canning process,” she explains. “Now it’s all automated.”

When evaluating the electric pressure canner’s noise level during the canning process, Lindsay likened it an Instant Pot. “There was some beeping during certain parts of the programming, which I appreciate is loud enough to alert me that it’s time to move on to the next step,” she explains. “During water bath canning and while the water is heating up for pressure canning, the sound of air escaping the vent is similar to venting the Instant Pot during release.”

While we love an appliance that boasts quiet and easy operation, we are crazy about appliances that are easy to clean. The Presto electric pressure canner makes cleanup a breeze thanks to the removable pot that can be cleaned in the sink and the dishwasher safe canning rack.

The only thing you’ll want to consider before buying this electric canner is its large size. “You’ll want to make sure you have a cabinet with a tall enough shelf, or some kind of dedicated storage,” advises Lindsay. “I keep it on the counter during
canning season, and yes, it takes up the whole counter space.” And when she doesn’t have any canning projects lined up, Lindsay stores the canner in her garage.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Feels safer than other stovetop pressure cookers
• Frees up stovetop space
• Hands-off operation
• Holds temperature without intervention
• Removable inner pot for easy cleaning

Cons

• Large profile takes up counter space
• Has to be plugged in
• 12-quart model can’t water bath quart-size cans

Product Comparison: Presto vs. Nesco

The Presto electric pressure canner functions as both a pressure canner and boiling water canner. Our tester found it was easy to use and performed well overall during her testing. She found the digital interface that walked her through the canning process especially helpful and felt safe while using it. It’s available in 12- and 17-quart sizes and retails for $387 and $451, respectively.

The Nesco Smart Canner and Cooker, on the other hand, is designed for pressure canning, pressure cooking, steam cooking and slow cooking. Like the Presto, it features a removable inner pot, canning rack and locking lid. It also includes a steam rack and removable condensation catcher. Though versatile, the Nesco is noticeably smaller at 9.5-quarts. It retails for $170.

Final Verdict

Lindsay describes the Presto electric pressure canner as well-made and user-friendly. She adds that it’s ideal for people interested in pressure canning but scared of the stovetop method or experienced canners interested in making the process a little easier.

Where to Buy the Presto Electric Pressure Canner

The Presto electric pressure canner retails for $387 and is available at several major retailers including Walmart, Wayfair, Target and Amazon.

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 FAQ

How do you use an electric pressure canner?

“Electric, or digital, pressure canners are used in the same way as stovetop models—to preserve food in jars,” Diane explains. “With their built-in technology, they provide home canners with convenience through precise temperature control. This means less monitoring and more freedom in the kitchen to tackle other tasks, like cleaning up after your latest culinary creation or starting your next canning recipe.”

Is the Presto electric pressure canner safe?

The Presto electric pressure canner boasts 10 built-in safety features including a cover locking system and an alert symbol that indicates an incomplete canning process. It also has a sensor which holds the exact temperature required for safe canning and a built-in timer. “It feels safer than using stovetop pressure cookers,” says Lindsay.

Is the Presto electric pressure canner USDA approved?

It’s worth pointing out that while the USDA and the National Center for Home Food Preservation provide guidelines for home canning, neither agency certifies or approves home canning equipment. So while this electric pressure canner is not officially USDA approved, it is the first electric pressure canner to meet USDA home canning guidelines for safely processing meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, and other low acid foods.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Taste of Home, we’re big fans of homemade goodies. We especially love canning and have a long list of timeless canning recipes to keep our shelves stocked for, well, forever. For this review, we had one of our trusted staff writers and professional chef, Lindsay Mattison, test the Presto electric pressure canner in her own home. She has been testing housewares for close to a decade, making her the ideal candidate to assess this appliance.

We also spoke to Diane Devereaux, an internationally recognized food preservation expert with over 30 years of experience in home canning and food preservation. She has authored six cookbooks, hosts a popular podcast called Canning with The Diva! You can learn more about Diane and find a plethora of canning recipes on her website. 

I have been writing in the e-commerce space for 10 years and joined Taste of Home in 2025. During my tenure as a writer, I have personally tested hundreds of products over the years, all across lifestyle and home categories.

The post The Presto Electric Pressure Canner, Tested and Reviewed by a Chef appeared first on Taste of Home.

No matter what drink you’re craving—cold, hot, espresso-based or just foamed milk for hot cocoa—the Breville Oracle Jet can make it.  This automatic espresso machine is loaded with features, from cold shots to one-touch lattes, all with deep customization options. It even remembers custom settings, so you can make your favorite drinks just the way you want them at the touch of a button.

“The setup was very involved and included testing the water hardness and installing a firmware update, but it took only 30 minutes. What impressed me most was the touchscreen. Initially, I scoffed at it, but its graphics rival those on my latest-generation iPad, and the step-by-step instructions made setup seamless,” says Nicole Doster in her full review. “An option during setup was to browse an interactive diagram, which gave me the ability to press on different parts of the machine to learn their functions via quick videos.”

Whether you’re a bonafide beginner or a budding barista, you’ll find that the machine can make almost any coffee drink. It tackles the entire process, from grinding the beans to tamping to pulling the shot. There’s even a whole host of settings for frothing milk, which the machine does automatically when the user selects a foamed milk drink. And this isn’t your average foamed milk—it makes the same silky microfoam you find in professional cafes.

“I have continued to use the espresso maker daily (one to two shots per day) and it’s been working great,” says Nicole after using the machine for almost a year. “I created a custom drink for hot chocolate that’s set to my steam wand preferences. It’s nice that you can customize the name, icon and drink settings for any drink you’d like.”

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KitchenAid KF8 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

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$1999.95 at Amazon

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1999.9510% OFF$1799.95 at Crate & Barrel

Take the guesswork out of fancy cafe drinks when you splurge on the KitchenAid KF8. This do-it-all machine changed Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski from a manual-only person to a dedicated automatic espresso machine user. With over 40 drink recipes (plus a plethora of customization options), this home barista makes cafe-style drinks quickly and expertly.

“After my inaugural latte, I made it my mission to try every recipe listed on the machine,” says Katie in her full review. “I enjoyed plenty of coffee shop favorites, like macchiatos and flat whites. But there were some new-to-me drinks to try, too, like an espresso lungo and ristretto.”

Apart from the sheer number of drink offerings available, the KF8 is incredibly simple to operate. Everything—from cleaning alerts to drink selection—appears right on the built-in, full color screen. This touchscreen drink menu is also where users choose from many different custom options, including strength, milk type and number of ounces desired.

“I am very pleased to say that after a year of consistent use, the KitchenAid KF8 still performs like a dream. It has quickly become our favorite (and most used) kitchen appliance,” says Katie. “One of my favorite features of this machine is that it tells you when (and how) it needs to be cleaned. Previous coffeemakers I’ve owned built up hard water stains and stuck grounds.”

Most Speedy

De'Longhi Rivelia Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

$1499.95 at De'Longhi

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The prospect of one-touch drinks may sound like something out of a science fiction novel. However, the De’Longhi Rivelia delivers this exact experience to dedicated java junkies—and it’s simple enough for anyone to operate. Add to that the fact that it’s incredibly speedy, and you have a certified superhero for caffeine fiends.

“As soon as you turn it on, the touch screen walks you through all the steps,” says tester Melany Love in her full review. “I tried to prep myself with the user manual, but honestly, it’s easier to let it tell you the process. It even reminds you to clean the carafe after every use. As someone with chronic memory failure, that’s a huge plus in my book.”

Melany notes that, surprisingly, this machine isn’t nearly as large as a full espresso bar. It takes up only about a third of her coffee cart and fits snugly front to back. Because it’s so slim, it’s a fine option for apartment dwellers and those with limited counter space. The De’Longhi machine also features interchangeable carafes, so it’s easy to switch from cold to hot drinks in seconds.

“That one button can make cappuccinos, espresso, cortados, lattes, iced coffees, flat whites and other coffee drinks,” says Melany. “You can even set up a profile and pre-customize the drinks exactly how you like them. It comes with a hot carafe attachment for hot drinks, and you can also purchase a separate LatteCrema Cool Upgrade set for cold drinks, including cold foam.”

Best for Beginners

Philips Series 3200 LatteGo

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As someone who is used to pulling her own shots using her manual machine, I was initially skeptical of the Philips 3200. However, it surpassed all my expectations—and then some. After using it for three months, I’ve become completely dependent on it. In a house of five (!!!) different coffee and espresso makers, it’s the one I reach for every day. It offers espresso, coffee, americanos, latte macchiatos, cappuccinos, and hot water, which is perfect for my purposes. For the coffee, espresso, cappuccino and Americano settings, you can choose between two sizes—single or double.

There’s a removable tank on the front for milk frothing, which the machine automatically takes care of for latte and cappuccinos. For each setting, there’s an option to select the volume, amount of milk (if applicable) and strength for each cup. By default, it grinds and uses fresh beans poured into the top chamber, though some settings allow you to select readily ground coffee, which you dump by spoonful into a special little hatch on the top.

The espresso this machine delivers is pretty darn good. There’s a nice crema on top of each cup, and the shots are nice and strong. However, where this machine really blew me away is with its coffee, which I find even better than that from my beloved pour over! It comes out dark, strong and with crema on top. I used this to make a cup for a friend who drinks several cups throughout the day, and even he commented on how good it was.

This is a big machine, and it means business. While it’s not the ideal pick for limited counter space or apartment dwellers, it does deliver a mean cuppa. After learning the basics, operating it is a breeze—which is ideal for morning folk who aren’t quite awake before their first jolt of java!

Best Budget

Terra Kaffe Demi

$795 at Terra Kaffe

The Terra Kaffee Demi takes all the guesswork out of making espresso at home. You don’t have to be an expert to pour fresh, great-tasting shots. And, given its sub-$800 price point, it’s also much more wallet-friendly than the other options on this list. From the get-go, editor Mary Henn appreciated the sleek and compact look. It’s simple to operate, with one power button on the side, a water tank and a bean hopper on top. There’s also a control knob on the right side that lets you scroll between different drinks, settings and more.

“I love that there’s no plastic pods involved in this single-serve brewing machine. You can use whatever beans you want, and this little countertop gadget can make everything you need from a double shot to a cup of plain drip coffee,” says Mary. “It’s the only coffee machine I’ve experienced that could potentially replace the need for any other coffee machines or espresso makers.”

The menu consists of espresso, lungo, americano, drip coffee or hot water. Each cup is adjustable using the side knob, which controls strength, volume and number of shots. There are also general settings for rinsing, cleaning and descaling. You can set a display time, turn sound on and off, and enable auto wake to go into sleep mode.

“I made (several) shots of espresso when I first started using the machine,” says Mary. “Each time I made espresso, it was rich, creamy, perfectly hot (not scalding), and consistently tasty. While I make espresso most mornings, I’ve also made a handful of drip coffees. My only complaint so far is that the preset settings yield a cup that’s slightly on the weaker side. I’m someone who likes very dark, bold coffee. I think I just need to tinker with the drink settings a bit more to find the best strength level for me.”

Best Compact

Jura ENA 8

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The Jura ENA8 was our tester Marisa Hillman’s first fully automatic espresso machine, and she’ll never be able to go back to a regular coffee maker. Every drink is customizable, meaning she enjoys the perfect coffeehouse drink with just the push of a button. Marisa tested an earlier version of the ENA8, which has since been updated and now has a touchscreen, two cup function and more drink options.

“Let’s address the elephant in the room. At $2,000, this machine is expensive,” says Marisa. “However, if you’re an avid coffee drinker like I am, then you’ll find that it’s worth the cost. I can’t tell you the last time I visited a Starbucks. It’s been a good, long while but I remember thinking that I preferred my homemade flat white. I haven’t been back (or thrown away $6) since.”

“I’ve used coffee makers with built-in frothers as well as handheld milk frothers but nothing beats the milk foam that comes out of the Jura, says Marisa. “It is so smooth and creamy and doesn’t require anything more than hooking up the milk system and pressing a button.” Drink options include coffee, espresso, ristretto, espresso doppio, espresso macchiato, latte macchiato, cappuccino and flat white. There are also options for hot water and milk foam.

Eventually, Marisa started getting a “system filling” error. Customer service walked her through a few troubleshooting options, but unfortunately it’s probably a leak somewhere inside the machine. Since her machine is out of warranty, it would cost her $350 to send it in for repair. That said, she got four good years out of it, which feels appropriate for the price.

What to Consider When Shopping for an Automatic Espresso Maker

There are a few considerations to think about before making the switch to an automatic espresso machine. First, think about the price point. Automatic espresso machines range in price from as little as $300 to as much as $2,000—or more. While a $2,000 machine might make sense for a coffee fanatic who entertains often, or for a home barista, it may be too much machine for espresso newbies.

Next, consider settings. While some automatic espresso machines simply cover espresso, others offer additional settings for milk-based lattes and cappuccinos. Some even offer hot water, Americanos and coffee at the touch of a button. Lastly, think about size. While a big, robust machine may make great drinks, it won’t work properly without the requisite counter space—and some of these machines get pretty big.

And when it comes to finding the perfect espresso beans? Don’t rule out your favorite coffee bean. “Most people think you need espresso beans to make espresso, which isn’t necessarily the case,” says tester and former barista Sydney Manning. “What makes espresso is the amount of pressure that is being applied in the machine (usually around 30 pounds), so you can use either regular coffee beans or espresso beans for both types of brews.”

According to Tom Valentine, Wholesale/Quality Assurance Manager at Crema Coffee Roasters, look at user reviews and certifications before making the plunge.

“User reviews, industry certifications and personal preference are all major considerations when shopping for an espresso machine,” he says. “Being certified by the Specialty Coffee Association is usually a good sign. Having high praise from professional baristas is another great indication of the machine’s quality. Personal reviews by other users can be helpful if not always authoritative.”

He also notes that, while budget machines may be a good first step for new espresso enthusiasts, it eventually pays to upgrade.

“The old adage of ‘you get what you pay for’ is especially true for espresso equipment,” says Tom. “A machine that’s $500 cheaper than others in its category is likely so for a reason, and it’s rarely a good one.”

How We Found the Best Automatic Espresso Machines

To find the best automatic espresso machines, the shopping team began by researching the most popular brands and models. We also considered any models we currently use or have used in the past. From there, we thoroughly tested each top-rated machine for at least several weeks, making sure to use as many different settings as possible in that time. Since our editors already owned the Jura, KitchenAid, Breville and De’Longhi machines, we were able to test those for much longer—they’ve seen anywhere from six months to several years of use.

For both the old and new machines, we took notes as we brewed our coffees, making sure to jot down any pain points or quirks we ran into during testing. While we enjoyed dozens of drinks from each machine, we paid particular attention to any settings that would incur daily use. These were mostly normal coffee and espresso settings. We also took notes on how well each machine handled specialty drinks, especially those incorporating foamed milk.

Along with general performance, we also looked at areas like maintenance, build quality, longevity, simplicity, water tank size and controls. We even scored areas that didn’t have anything to do with the actual coffee making process, including appearance, noise level, speed and any included accessories. After all that scrutiny, we’re confident that we uncovered the very best automatic espresso machines for the at-home barista and casual coffee lover alike.

Others We Tested

• Jura S8: When Marisa’s Jura ENA8 finally died after several years of service, she decided to try the Jura S8. Unfortunately, this machine had issues beginning after a few months of use. Luckily, she was still within the warranty and able to troubleshoot the issues with customer service. If you’re between the two machines, we recommend the Jura ENA8.

FAQ

What is a semi-automatic espresso machine​?

“Semi-automatic machines perform some function of the brewing process for the barista,” says Tom Valentine, Wholesale/Quality Assurance Manager at Crema Coffee Roasters. He goes on to explain that you generally see this in volumetric brewing machines, wherein the machine starts and stops the brewing process after a predetermined amount of water has been used.

“There are lots of variations in this category, but the main benefit is that they offer convenience while still giving the user control over some of the brewing parameters so they can continually evaluate and improve the process,” he goes on to say. “Think of these machines as your standard drip coffee makers. They do a lot of the work for you, but still require some input from the user.”

Are automatic espresso machines worth it​?

“Get an automatic machine for the person who likes espresso and isn’t too picky, the person who loves espresso but rarely has the time to pop by a coffee shop before work, the new parent who needs caffeine fast and may not have the bandwidth to quality control their brew or the barista in your life who’s trying to get better at pouring latte art,” says Wholesale/Quality Assurance Manager at Crema Coffee Roasters Tom Valentine.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m not a certified coffee expert. However, I do know quite a bit about brewing as a casual coffee fan. Between my experience reviewing the De’Longhi Dedica Duo and creating concentrates with my OXO Rapid Brewer, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a good cuppa. I’ve also been crafting my own specialty coffees with an Aeropress, French press, pour over and other brewing methods for over 12 years.

For this piece, we also spoke to Tom Valentine, Wholesale/Quality Assurance Manager at Crema Coffee Roasters. Tom provided guidance as to what we should look for in these appliances as well as information on the appliances as a whole.

The post 6 Best Automatic Espresso Machines That Make Ordinary Kitchens Feel Like Cafes appeared first on Taste of Home.

Sale price: $269.99 | Original price: $349.99

Today only, shoppers can access hundreds of discounts during the Kohl’s Cyber Days sale. Savings span all categories on site, including kitchen appliances, cookware and gifts. Plus, you earn $15 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent. Hello, bonus dollars to spend on even more gifts!

Thanks to the sale, budding bartenders can slash $80 off the new Ninja SLUSHi. Whip up margaritas, frappes and other frozen delights in mere minutes—no ice required.

Lenox Cyber Monday Sale

Holiday Tree Chip and Dip Set

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Sale price: $44.95 | Original price: $150

While the coveted Lenox Spice Village isn’t on sale, there are still many deals to be found during the brand’s Cyber Monday sale.

This festive chip and dip set, for example, is a whopping 70% off. With a darling holly pattern, this is an ideal piece of serveware for all your holiday hosting.

MasterClass Cyber Monday Sale

MasterClass Subscription

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50% off one year

Want to learn cooking skills from Gordon Ramsay or interior design chops from Joanna Gaines? Sign up for a MasterClass subscription and get access to over 200 celebrity-led classes. For a limited time, a one-year membership is half price.

Bissell Cyber Monday Sale

Little Green Machine

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Sale price: $84.99 | Original price: $123.59

Did someone spill a glass of red wine on your couch over Thanksgiving? Suck up any mess with the Bissell Little Green upholstery and carpet cleaner. This portable device wooed our editors with its compact size, powerful cleaning and easy operation.

During Cyber Monday, it’s available for one of the lowest prices we’ve ever seen—just $84.99.

Ace Hardware Cyber Monday Sale

Blackstone Outdoor Griddle

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Sale price: $279.99 | Original price: $399.99

Trust us: Any griller in your life would be very excited to unwrap a brand new Blackstone outdoor griddle on Christmas morning. Our product testers are consistently smitten with the ease of use, versatility and joy these propane-powered cookers bring.

During Ace Hardware’s Cyber Monday sale, you’ll score 30% off, saving you a whopping $120. There are plenty of other deals to be found, too, on fire pits, holiday decor and gifts.

Marley Spoon Cyber Monday Sale

Marley Spoon Meal Delivery

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Up to 45% off + free shipping

If you don’t feel like cooking dinner after all that Thanksgiving prep, we don’t blame you. Now is a great time to try Marley Spoon—AKA our editors’ favorite meal delivery service.

During the brand’s Cyber Monday sale, you can score up to 45% off your first box, plus additional discounts on the next six boxes. You’ll even get free shipping, too.

Ruggable Cyber Monday Sale

2x3 Washable Kitchen Rug

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Sale price: $53.40 | Original price: $89

Your holiday plans likely involve a lot of time in the kitchen. Make standing to wash dishes or prep pie dough a little easier on your joints with a Ruggable kitchen rug.

These sleek styles—available in a wide array of patterns and styles—not only look good in your space, but they’re easy to toss in the washing machine when a spill occurs. For a limited time, take 40% off during the Ruggable Cyber Monday sale.

Wayfair Cyber Monday Sale

Staub Baking Dish Set

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Sale price: $99.99 | Original price: $271

Christmas will be here before you know it! Stock up on everything you need for hosting—including furniture, kitchen gear and holiday decor—during the Wayfair Cyber Monday sale. You’ll find savings up to 80% across an array of categories.

I’m particularly smitten with this 3-piece Staub baking dish set on sale for 63% off. The trio of ceramic dishes is perfect for holding mashed potatoes, stuffing and more holiday sides.

Walmart Cyber Monday Sale

Beautiful Knife Block Set

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Sale price: $58.88 | Original price: $73.26

We love Walmart’s Beautiful by Drew Barrymore line—especially when it’s on sale! During Walmart’s Cyber Monday Deals event, enjoy huge savings across all categories on site, including the classy cookware and appliance collection.

Holiday hosting is even easier with this editor-tested and approved knife block set. Named the “best budget” knife set you can buy, these sleek choppers offer soft-grip handles and a sleek look. And now, you can save an extra $14 on the already low price.

Quince Cyber Monday Sale

Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan Set

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Sale price: $63.90 | Original price: $220

Slash prices sitewide during Quince’s Cyber Monday sale. This luxury brand rarely features markdowns, so trust us when we say this is one sale you don’t want to miss.

Now is the time to stock up on premium gifts, including the brand’s ceramic nonstick frying pan set. Currently 70% off traditional retail prices, this two-piece pan set is perfect for under the tree—and it’s under $100, to boot!

Williams Sonoma Cyber Monday Deals

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

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Sale price: $299.95 | Original price: $399.95

Williams Sonoma is one of our favorite places to find holiday hosting essentials and gifts for home cooks. For a limited time, score up to 60% off across most categories on the site. This includes editor-loved brands like All-Clad, Le Creuset and KitchenAid.

We’re especially excited to see savings on the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, which one editor calls “perfect for a family who wants a second oven.” Read more in our review of the appliance.

GreenPan Cyber Monday Sale

GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware

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Sale price: $99.99 | Original price: $259.99

GreenPan is one of our favorite affordable cookware brands—especially when we’re talking the brand’s Cyber Monday discounts. Today only, score savings of up to 75% off sitewide, plus free gifts with select purchases.

We recommend taking this opportunity to pick up the Valencia pan set, which is currently 60% off. “If you’re looking for a quality pan that sears like a dream, the GreenPan Valencia is a solid option with an effective non-stick finish and induction-compatible magnetic base,” says product tester Dylan Fischer of the ceramic-coated pan in our GreenPan review.

Made In Cyber Week

13-Piece Curated Cookware Set

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Sale price: $999.99 + free Dutch oven | Original price: $1,428

Whip up your holiday feast on a budget with the Made In Cookware Cyber Week sale. Not only can you score up to 30% off holiday hosting favorites, but there are over 10 free gifts you can snag just by shopping the sale.

Pick up this curated cookware set and save $428 on must-have holiday cookware. Enjoy a full 13-piece set, plus a free Dutch oven gift worth $269!

Stanley Holiday Sale

The Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler

Shop on Stanley 1913

Sale price: $20 | Original price: $40

Don’t know what to gift your coworker or mother-in-law? The classic Stanley Quencher is something she’ll use and love all year long. Available in a multitude of colors, sizes and styles, this timeless tumbler keeps drinks cool for days.

Now, during the Stanley Holiday sale, snag this and a number of other stylish Stanley items for up to 50% off. While you’re shopping, don’t forget to snag Stanley’s Black Friday-exclusive Black Honey tumbler, too.

Atlas Coffee Black Friday Sale

Mushroom Coffee

Shop on Atlas Coffee Club

Sale price: $32 | Original price: $72

Mushroom coffee makes a great (and practical) holiday gift for health hounds. Now, you can snag a double bag bundle plus a starter kit and save 55%. You’ll also score free shipping.

You can also save over $50 on a 12-month membership to Atlas Coffee Club. I’ve tried Atlas and can confirm it’s a great way to try new beans from around the world.

Amazon Cyber Monday Deals

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

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Sale price: $279.99 | Original price: $539.99

Amazon is kicking things off with some holly jolly Cyber Monday deals. There are deep discounts to be found on gifts, stocking stuffers, toys and household essentials.

This Dyson V8, for example, is an impressive 48% off. Our product testers love this lightweight model’s stellar performance, lightweight floor-to-ceiling maneuverability and arsenal of attachments.

Balsam Hill Cyber Deals

6.5-Foot Classic Blue Spruce

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Sale price: $449 | Original price: $899

If you tried to set your tree up this year only to find half of the lights burnt out, you’re in luck. One of our favorite artificial Christmas trees, the 6.5-foot Balsam Hill Blue Spruce, is now 50% off during the brand’s Cyber Deals sale.

Plus, this hyper-realistic option is just one of many Balsam Hill trees on discount, so there are plenty of other size, fullness and light options available.

Bartesian Black Friday Sale

Original Cocktail Maker

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Sale price: $229 | Original price: $349

‘Tis the season for merrymaking, and this handy-dandy cocktail maker will keep spirits bright. It’s called a Bartesian, and our tester likened it to a Keurig for cocktails. Just add a capsule, select your strength and watch the magic happen. Not only is it a great gift for drink lovers, but it’s also an easy way to relieve bartending duties at your holiday party, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.

During the brand’s Black Friday sale, score the original cocktail maker for just $229—a $120 savings. The compact duet and extra-large professional models are also discounted.

Book of the Month Cyber Monday Sale

Book of the Month Subscription

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Join for $5 + get a free hat

If you need a gift for the reader in your life, don’t sleep on Book of the Month club. I tested this service and can confirm it offers top-tier reads at a very fair price.

For Black Friday, you can join for just $5 and score a free hat.

Cozy Earth Black Friday Sale

Cuddle Blanket

Shop on Cozy Earth

Sale price: $166.80 | Original price: $278

The splurge-worthy cuddle blanket is marked down as part of the sitewide Cozy Earth Cyber Monday sale, and there’s a reason we name it one of the best blankets you can buy. I tested this beauty and found that it’s incredibly thick, luxe and impossibly soft.

The entire Cozy Earth site is discounted with all bedding and apparel up to 40% off. And you can score a 35% savings on non-sale items with our exclusive TASTEOFHOME code.

De'Longhi Black Friday Sale

Dedica Duo Espresso Machine

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Sale price: $199 | Original price: $299

Now is the time to pick up a new espresso machine for gifting or holiday hosting! De’Longhi’s Black Friday sale offers discounts on more than 20 products, including espresso machines, coffee makers, Nespresso machines and other kitchen appliances.

Give the gift of cold brew and espresso with the compact and stylish Dedica Duo. Currently on sale for 33% off, this machine impressed our newbie espresso tester after she used it every day for over three months. Read more about her experience in our review.

Great Jones Cyber Monday Sale

The Dutchess

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Sale price: $125 | Original price: $205

Even at full price, the massive 6.75-quart enameled cast-iron “Dutchess” Dutch oven is a steal. Our tester, a former professional chef, fully expects it to last a lifetime.

And now, during the Great Jones Cyber Monday sale, it can be yours for a staggering $80 off. That brings the price down to just $125. For the size and quality, that’s tough to beat.

Harry & David Cyber Monday Sale

Christmas Cookie Collection

Shop on Harry & David

Sale price: $35.99 with code 20HOLI | Original price: $44.99

Harry & David is our go-to for holiday gift baskets. Now, you can save 50% on select items and 20% off sitewide with code 20HOLI. This applies to almost all items, including the editor-tested Christmas cookie collection.

Tester Dylan Fischer gave this box a respectable rating, noting that it makes for a great gift and arrives in a slick, festive box. Want to see what else we love? Take a peek at our Harry & David reviews.

HexClad Cyber Monday Sale

7-Piece Knife Set

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Sale price: $379 | Original price: $783.99

Shop the HexClad Cyber Monday sale and save on a whole slew of editor-loved kitchen gear. Savings include deals on bundles and individual items, including pans, knives and other hosting must-haves.

We’re particularly excited to see 52% off the brand’s Damascus steel knife set, which is one of the best knife sets we’ve tested. I’ve had it for over a year and can attest to its incredible quality.

KitchenAid Cyber Sale

Classic Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer

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Sale price: $299.99 | Original price: $499.99

A classic KitchenAid stand mixer makes the perfect gift for bakers. Now is the time to secure a 5.5-quart bowl-lift mixer at a generous 40% discount and start cranking out those Christmas cookies in no time!

Additionally, score deep discounts on other items during the KitchenAid Cyber sale. Savings span almost everything on site, including mixer attachments, appliances and tools.

Air Doctor Cyber Monday Sale

AirDoctor 3500 Air Purifier

Shop on Air Doctor

Sale price: $379 | Original price: $659

I’ve been testing the AirDoctor 3500 for over a month, and it’s made a huge difference in the air quality of my home office. It’s super easy to set up, quiet and circulates the air in up to 630 square feet every 15 minutes.

During the brand’s Cyber Week sale, score the 3500 model with a $280 discount. If you need whole-house purification, there are also a number of bundles on sale.

Goldbelly Black Friday Sale

William Greenberg Desserts Black and White Cookies

Shop on Goldbelly

Sale price: $47.96 with code BITEWIDE20 | Original price: $59.95

Food gifts are some of the best gifts. Shop some of the most beloved food finds across the country on Goldbelly and enjoy a 20% discount with code BITEWIDE20. Not sure where to start? Take a look at our editors’ favorite finds from the site.

Pro tip: Now is the time to pick up your Christmas cookies at a deep discount. We highly recommend the black and white cookies from William Greenberg Desserts, which are the perfect marriage of sweet and soft.

Lovesac Cyber Monday Sale

Lovesac Sactional

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Prices vary

Black Friday is the best time of year to update furniture. And for a limited time, our all-time favorite modular sectional is marked down during the Lovesac Cyber Monday sale.

Choose from an endless array of fabrics, seat styles and configurations to make the Lovesac Sactional of your dreams. At 40% off, it’s the best discount of the season.

Caraway Home Cyber Monday Sale

Cookware and Minis Set

Shop on Caraway

Sale price: $502.50 | Original price: $945

Caraway’s Cyber Monday sale brings some of the deepest discounts of the season on ceramic cookware. Not only are select products and bundles discounted, but the more you buy, the more you save! Purchases of $85+ unlock 15% off, $425+ gets you 20% off, $525+ scores 25% off and $975+ includes a free bar tools set. Whew!

Keeping all that in mind, I recommend the 16-piece cookware and minis set. When bundled, you’ll save over 45% on fry pans, saucepans, saute pans, organizers and lids.

Our Place Cyber Monday Sale

Always Pan 2.0

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Sale price: $99 | Original price: $135

The hype around the viral Always Pan has died down, but we still think it’s a solid piece of cookware worth adding to your kitchen. (Especially if you’re into that aesthetic, styled look!)

During the Our Place Cyber Monday sale, the standard size is available for just $99. You can also find deep discounts on sets, the Wonder Oven and kitchen tools.

Tovala Cyber Week Sale

Free Smart Oven

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Free smart oven when you order meals, with code BFSALE25

Meal delivery doesn’t get much easier than Tovala. This service uses a smart oven that reads the companion meal’s packaging for the perfect cook, every time. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking for easy dinners after a long day.

You can now score one of the brand’s best discounts of the year: A free smart oven when you order meals six times over six months. Just use code BFSALE25 and pay $9.99 for shipping.

The post The Best Cyber Monday Deals of 2025 appeared first on Taste of Home.

Enter the Velvetiser hot chocolate maker from Hotel Chocolat. It whips (literally) up smooth, creamy hot chocolate in minutes—faster than you can say jingle bells.

Our executive culinary director put the all-new Velvetiser to the test to see if it could really make Christmas wishes come true. Here’s what happened.

We Tried It

Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser

The perfect countertop hot chocolate maker to warm you up this holiday season

$179 at Amazon

Shop on Hotel Chocolat

What is the Velvetiser Hot Chocolate Maker?

The Velvetiser is a compact kitchen gadget that makes hot or cold European-style drinking chocolate in about two minutes with just the press of a button. Add chocolate flakes and your favorite milk, and you’re ready to cozy up with a warm mug of cocoa on a chilly winter afternoon.

Wondering how it differs from a regular milk frother? The Velvetiser is designed specifically for hot chocolate, using a petal whisk to blend and heat chocolate flakes to the perfect temperature. A milk frother, by contrast, is built to foam milk for lattes and cappuccinos.

How We Tested It

Our Executive Culinary Director, Sarah Farmer, tested the Velvetiser. Here’s her expert opinion on the new hot chocolate machine.

Ease of Use

Sarah says the Velvetiser’s one-button design couldn’t be easier to operate. Just add milk (dairy or plant-based) and chocolate—flakes for hot drinks or powder for cold—pop on the lid, hit your setting, and in about 2½ minutes you’re sipping chocolatey goodness.

Performance & Texture

“‘Velvety’ is exactly the right word. It’s thick, frothy, creamy and silky-smooth,” Sarah says. “I tested the machine with both whole milk and 2% milk (the brand’s recommended option for optimal performance), and both produced equally impressive results.”

The Velvetiser’s clever design whips up milk that’s thick and smooth—no graininess, no leftover chocolate. Its petal-shaped whisk and ridged pitcher create a gentle vortex for that signature velvety texture.

The temperature of the hot chocolate hits the sweet spot, too. It’s warm, not scalding, and ready to sip right away.

One thing Sarah does caution against is using standard store-bought hot chocolate mixes in the Velvetiser. The brand also advises against this, noting that it can affect performance. So, it’s probably best to stick with Velvetiser’s own chocolate packets to keep the results consistent and high-quality.

Flavor

Hotel Chocolat offers an impressive lineup of nearly 30 hot and cold chocolate flavors, ranging from cozy classics to creative limited-edition blends.

“The quality of the drinking chocolate selections I tried (which were many!) really stood out,” Sarah says.

“They’re well-balanced, smooth and rich, with no hint of artificial flavor or cloying sweetness you sometimes get from store-bought mixes.”

Sarah’s favorite flavors were Mint, with its cool, refreshing lift against the dark chocolate, and the Black Forest Gateau, which layers subtle cherry notes into a lush, dessert-like sip. “The flavors taste natural, grown-up and top quality,” she says.

Functionality

The Velvetiser runs quietly and finishes its cycle without any alert—no beep, buzz or chime. Each batch yields one 10-ounce serving, and you can make cup after cup with just a quick rinse of the pitcher and whisk between rounds.

Design & Construction

Sarah tested the Pebble finish, which she says looks sleek and modern. “The machine feels sturdy and well-made—substantial enough to feel premium without being heavy and cumbersome,” she says.

“The cord length is standard and didn’t pose any issues,” she adds. “I typically keep my countertops clear and store small appliances between uses, but this one earns a permanent winter spot.”

Cleaning

A quick rinse with cool water keeps the nonstick surface slick, the whisk mechanism snug and cleanup truly effortless—no need for detergents or scrubbing.

Value

Sure, $179 is a splurge for hot chocolate, but for Taste of Home’s Test Kitchen Lead, it’s a worthy indulgence and a perfect Christmas gift for any cocoa lover.

Pros

• Produces smooth, creamy and velvety hot chocolate at the ideal temperature
• Works well with both dairy and plant-based milk
• Nearly 30 high-quality chocolate flavors from Hotel Chocolat
• Sturdy and well-made, yet compact enough for a countertop
• Quick, simple and quiet operation
• Quick rinse cleaning
• Makes an excellent holiday gift for hot chocolate lovers

Cons

• High price point
• Limited compatibility; works best with the brand’s own chocolate packets
• No sound alert when the cycle finishes (may be a minor inconvenience)

Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?

It’s safe to say our expert culinary tester fell hard for the Velvetiser—so much so that it’s earned a permanent spot on her kitchen counter. “I love hunkering down with a mug of hot chocolate, and this beautifully designed machine introduced me to a new bougie way to enjoy it. The brand promises a rich, luxurious, velvety drinking chocolate experience—and they weren’t exaggerating.”

Between its effortless operation, silky texture and exceptional flavor, Hotel Chocolat’s Velvetiser is an everyday luxury worth the splurge. For anyone who loves slowing down with something warm and comforting, this one’s a keeper—and a gift guaranteed to impress.

Where to Buy

We Tried It

Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser

Bring cafe-style European drinking chocolate to your kitchen this winter with the Velvetiser

$179 at Amazon

Shop on Hotel Chocolat

Treat yourself or a chocolate-loving friend to the Velvetiser, available as a set on Amazon or the brand’s website for $179. The bundle includes the sleek hot chocolate maker, a 10-serving taster box of hot and cold mixes, plus a matching mug and glass.

A splurge? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely—especially for creamy, dreamy hot chocolate all winter long.

The post Is This Pricey Drinking Chocolate System Worth the Splurge? appeared first on Taste of Home.

It’s hard to know what records to add to a vinyl addict’s collection, so here’s a gift idea that complements his listening experience. This USB-powered light-up record holder displays the current album as the music plays. The holder is made from solid wood and “Now Playing” lights up in clear acrylic.

For the well-rested man

Coop Pillow

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A better night’s sleep is the gift that keeps on giving. This customizable pillow will allow him to adjust the firmness and height to reduce neck and backaches. The filling is a proprietary blend of memory foam and microfiber that maintains the pillow’s shape night after night.

For the guy with the beard

Hair & Beard Oil

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If you know someone who’s made his beard his entire personality, gift him this hair and beard oil from Aesop. Just a little of this silcone-based oil is all it takes to nourish, smooth, soften and shine his beard or ‘stache with nutrients like borage, petit grain and jojoba seed oils. Suitable for all hair types—including on his head.

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the one with a healthy morning routine

Atlas+ Superblend

Shop on Atlas Coffee

39.995% OFF$37.99 at Amazon

Mushroom coffee is worthy of the hype, so if you know someone who’s looking to jump into a healthier morning routine, gift him the Atlas+ Superblend. This instant mushroom coffee is real coffee, but it also has functional mushrooms, probiotics, adaptogens, collagen and vitamins. Instead of jitters, he’ll enjoy more clarity and energy, a better mood and less bloating and stress. Choose from the sugar- and dairy-free Coffee Superblend or the low-sugar, dairy-free Latte Superblend.

For the coffee connoisseur

Coffee Tasting Class

Shop on Uncommon Goods

This is no ordinary cup of Joe. In fact, it’s a cup of Julien—or rather, a coffee tasting class with Julien Langevin, a coffee expert with their own education platform. This Blind Taste Test Coffee Kit contains five samples of specialty coffee, five sampling cups, tasting forms, a flavor wheel and five two- ounce bags of coffee sampled during the test, along with their origin cards. He can schedule a class with Julien, brew some coffee and sip and learn. Shopping Editor Emily Way took the class with her husband. She says, “The Q&A at the end with Julien Langevin is worth the price of admission itself, to be honest. The information that they share and the way they guide the class is such a treat.”

For the whiskey drinker

Flaviar Advent Calendar

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Cheers to the whiskey lover on your holiday shopping list; we’ve got the perfect gift for him. This unique Advent calendar contains two dozen samples of world-class whiskey, a pair of collectible Glencairn glasses, a tasting booklet and a digital tasting experience for each sample. Plus, he’ll get a free Flaviar Black annual membership, featuring great deals, major savings and free shipping on future purchases. All told, it’s a $500 value and comes packaged in an impressive box featuring a vintage airline theme.

For the easy meal prepper

PowerXL Multi-Cooker

Shop on Walmart

Whether he loves gadgets or just easy dinner prep, this 7.5 quart multi-cooker aims to please. It stirs, shreds, sautés and slow cooks anything from soups to taco filling to risotto. All he has to do is program one of the nine smart presets and wait for dinner time. It comes in a sophisticated matte black exterior with a glass lid and stainless steel handle.

For the jetset gentleman

Passport Gift Set

Shop on Macy's

Here’s a travel upgrade for his next trip: a leather passport holder gift set from Perry Ellis. The 100% black leather passport cover will secure his most important travel doc, plus there’s a matching luggage tag and a handy digital scale to weigh his luggage. It’s giving first-class vibes no matter where his seat is on the plane.

For the backyard host with the most

Grill Gloves

Shop on Sur La Table

Here’s a thoughtful gift for the grillmaster on your list—a pair of heat-resistant grill gloves. They’re far better for cooking than unwieldy oven mitts, but his hands will stay protected. They’re great for when he’s standing at the barbecue or flat top or any other time he’s working with hot cookware.

For the home chef

Acacia Cutting Board

Shop on Williams Sonoma

When is a cutting board more than just a cutting board? When it’s this gorgeous acacia beauty from Williams Sonoma. Made from solid acacia wood with a highly durable endgrain construction, it can hold up to slicing, dicing, chopping and more. The perimeter side well is perfect for capturing the runoff of juicy resting meats, too. Handwash only; he’ll just have to rub it with mineral oil occasionally to keep the wood looking beautiful.

For the guy who's always playing tunes

Sonos Smart Speaker

Shop on Sonos

Any room in the house can sound like a concert hall with a portable Sonos speaker. This Bluetooth-enabled device hooks up easily to Wi-Fi so he can amplify any playlist. The sleek speaker is voice-enabled for hands-free control, or you can use the touch buttons.

For the comic book lover

Personalized Comic Book Portrait

Shop on Etsy

Transform your favorite comic book reader into a superhero with this custom artwork. Just upload a clear, high-res photo, select a theme, customize a message and wait to see the super art it creates. It’s available in digital download or as a printed poster.

For the gym rat

KNKG Duffel Bag

Shop on KNKG

Whether he’s on his way to the gym or a weekend away, this KNKG duffel bag holds everything he needs with room to spare. It’s got multiple pockets to store small items securely, along with two pockets for bottles, but the feature we love most is the separate storage for two pairs of shoes that keeps them away from the rest of the items inside. This bag measures 19.7 inches wide by 11.8 inches deep with a capacity of 11.9 gallons; choose from three colors and two other sizes.

For the smoked cocktail connoisseur

Sur La Table Kitchen Torch

Shop on Sur La Table

Whether he likes a mean smoked cocktail or créme brulée, this is the tool he needs to make them both at home. A knob easily adjusts the flame on this gas kitchen torch. It’s made from nylon and metal and has a fuel capacity of 40ml (gas cartridge sold separately).

For the cornhole fanatic

Table Top Mini Cornhole Set

$49.99 at Amazon

No need to wait for a sunny day to play his favorite yard game. This mini cornhole set can be played right on top of a table. The American Cornhole Association-approved set contains a pair of wooden boards, eight mini bags, two sets of score pins, a fixed launcher and a built-in score tracker. All the pieces store right in the boards for easy setup and cleanup.

For the oenophile

Rabbit Vertical Corkscrew Set

Shop on Target

This manual corkscrew from Rabbit makes it easy to remove wine corks in seconds. It can be used on all types of bottles and corks, plus it automatically ejects the cork once it’s pulled. The set comes with the vertical corkscrew, a foil cutter and a spare spiral, and it’s backed by a 10-year limited warranty. Cheers!

For the mindful guy

5-Year Memory Notebook

$34.50 at Amazon

Just a few lines a day is all it takes to fill in this beautifully constructed notebook. Every page has space for five entries—just fill in the year and jot down some thoughts or the highlights of the day. The notebook opens flat for easy writing and a page marker keeps your place day after day. There’s a gusseted inner pocket to store small items, like ticket stubs, while an elastic band keeps the book firmly closed. The faux leather cover comes in six colors.

For the '80s movies fan

Lego Back to the Future Time Machine

Shop on LEGO

The Lego set version of the time-traveling DeLorean made famous by the “Back to the Future” franchise is another fun gift option. It’s perfect for the Lego lovers on your list, but it will also be a hit with ‘80s movie buffs. It contains over 1800 pieces—there’s even a Flux Capacitor light brick—and comes with mini figures of the time travelers themselves, Dr. Emmett “Doc” Brown and Marty McFly.

For the techie

Bluetooth Smart Glasses

Shop on Walmart

Cool tech is made even cooler with these Bluetooth audio sunglasses. These water-resistant frames have polarized lenses that reduce glare and offer UV protection. They connect easily to your phone or tablet and offer up to 10 hours of playback or tap time. Plus, the shiny black finish of these frames puts the finishing touch on any look.

For the live music fan

Loop Experience 2 Plus Plugs

$44.95 at Amazon

Encourage his concert attendance and hearing protection with these Loop Experience 2-certified earplugs. They offer 17dB (SNR) of filtered noise reduction, so he can still hear all the music without compromising your hearing. The pair comes with four ear tip sizes to customize your fit. These feel super comfortable in the ear and can be cleaned and reused for many concerts to come.

For the Mister Who's Rooting for the Home Team

Ballpark Map Glass

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Take me out to the ball game! This geo-specific ballpark drinkware will kindle fond memories of peanuts and cracker jacks. He can look forward to baseball season every time he sips. Better yet, it’s a great conversation starter and an excuse to chat about the latest MLB news. Did we mention it’s a great vessel for enjoying his boozy Advent calendar, too?

For the Outdoorsman

Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler

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$325 at Amazon

Yeti coolers are notoriously top of class, so it’s no surprise that the highly rated Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler made our list of the best Christmas gift ideas for him. It’s on wheels, making it easy to tote to the park, the beach or even just the backyard. Available in colors like camp green, bright white and charcoal gray, this editor-loved best cooler winner also offers a rotational-molded design that keeps ice for days.

For the Cutting-Edge Fan

NFL Chef's Knife

Shop on Hedley & Bennett

Never underestimate the value of a quality knife as one of the best Christmas gift ideas for him. This editor-loved Hedley & Bennet NFL knife shows appreciation for his team while still performing best in its class. Plus, it comes from the brand that makes one of the best knife sets we’ve tried, so it can cut through even the thickest Porterhouse steak.

For the Cocktail Connoisseur

Old Fashioned Kit

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Treat him to a spin on one of his favorites with this spiced old-fashioned kit. This cocktail kit comes complete with everything the budding bartender needs to shake, stir and enjoy eight kicky glasses, minus the alcohol. He’ll unbox mandarin chips, a three-chile simple syrup, chocolate bitters and a jigger for mixing.

On Sale

For the Guy That Loves His Jeep

Jeep Laptop Bag

59.997% OFF$55.80 at Amazon

Shop on Kohl's

If his Jeep is his baby, he can let everyone know it with this Jeep laptop bag. “The multi-purpose laptop backpack is a convenient size for an everyday bag,” says Editor Mary Henn, who owns the bag. “It comes in elm green, bright orange, peacoat navy and black. The top pocket has the Jeep logo, and the bottom pocket has a star, a nod to the brand’s military heritage. The durable recycled polyester makes transitioning from class to an outdoor adventure a breeze.”

For the Grill Master

Weber Performer Charcoal Grill

Shop on Weber

$420.45 at Amazon

Looking to splurge on Christmas gift ideas for him this season? The Weber Performer charcoal grill clinched a victory in our tests for the best grill, making it a worthy investment for the grill master. According to in-house grilling expert and head of the Taste of Home Prep Kitchen Catherine Ward, this pick cooks up perfectly charred proteins and delivers delicious grill marks on ribs, steak and chicken.

For the Caffeinated Camper

Yeti French Press

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$130 at Amazon

“The Yeti French Press is what you’d get if a traditional Yeti tumbler and a French press had a baby, and Yeti raised the child,” says writer Anthony O’Reilly. “It has double-walled vacuum insulation to keep your drink hot for hours, is incredibly durable, comes in all your favorite Yeti colors and allows you to make a large ‘pot’ of coffee right in the rambler.” Talk about a great gift for coffee lovers!

On Sale

For the Curious Guy

Atlas Obscura Wild Life

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40.0050% OFF$20 at Amazon

“If he’s curious about the natural world, Atlas Obscura Wild Life is the perfect tome to get lost in on a rainy day,” says Senior Editor Katie Bandurski. “He’ll learn about over 500 plant and animal species from all seven continents in one visually stunning package. I’ve also read Gastro Obscura and can confirm it’s an ideal gift for foodies.”

For the Tidy Griller

Grill Rescue Brush

$74.95 at Amazon

Trade his outdated wire grill brush for the wildly popular Grill Rescue Brush that our editors adore. Not only is this the best grill brush without any metal bits, but it’s also easier to use than those outdated options. All he has to do is dip it in water, heat up the grill, then let the steam soften the debris. It’s made with heat-resistant Kevlar that can withstand high temperatures.

On Sale

For the Techie

LED Smart Lights

149.995% OFF$142.49 at Amazon

If he’s always jamming to his favorite tunes, try finding some music-related Christmas gift ideas for him, like this smart light panel set. First, he mounts the panels to the wall in almost any configuration he can think of. Then, it cleverly connects to his smartphone to create his own light shows. My husband is absolutely obsessed with these panels and has custom settings for almost every holiday, all his favorite sports teams and a few of his favorite flicks. The best part? It moves to the beat of music and movies, making it an excellent option for tech-savvy dudes.

For the Carnivore

ButcherBox Favorites Box

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Does your favorite meat lover already own a grill and too many accessories? Instead of busting his chops, buy him the finest ones. A butcher’s meat box of pasture-raised, grass-fed beef, tender pork and flavorful filet mignon will be his new favorite food gift. ButcherBox is also one of our favorite meat delivery services.

For the Alexa User

Smart Switch

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If he’s always going on about his favorite smart devices, this smart switch is bound to be a solid investment. He can turn his lights on and off without even getting out of bed—no more interrupted TV time!

“After the Kasa smart switch is configured, you can turn it on and off with the app,” says former Senior Editor Shay Tilander. “When you push the app button to the corresponding switch (or smart plug), the device turns on instantly. There’s no lag time between touching the phone screen and the device activating, which is pretty cool.”

For the Late Riser

Sunrise Alarm Clock

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$169.99 at Amazon

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Morning routines don’t have to be dreadful. The Hatch Restore 3 is a personalized alarm clock and lamp that mimics the sunrise to aid healthy cortisol levels and thus create peaceful mornings. “This is the ultimate morning upgrade for anyone on your list who still uses their phone alarm clock,” former Editor Madi Koetting says. “Plus, it helps him wind down thanks to soothing sounds and customizable lights to prepare his mind and body for sleep.”

For the Traditionalist

Andre's Chocolates

Shop on Andre's Chocolate

A box of chocolates is a classic gift for anyone, and this option from Andre’s Chocolate is as pretty as it is appetizing. “As a Kansas City native, Andre’s is a staple when it comes to chocolate and dessert,” says Editor Mary Henn of this yummy collection. “I’ve been enjoying it since I was a kid. As someone who loves pralines, marzipan and nougat, Andre’s is my go-to when it comes to chocolates.”

For the Compact Packer

Helinox Chair One

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$109.95 at Amazon

If he likes packing light for concerts or camping trips, the Helinox Chair One is right up his alley. It weighs less than a bottle of wine, yet it can support up to 320 pounds. “I haven’t had any issues with the aluminum frame bending or warping with use, and the seat fabric is made of ripstop polyester that’s made to last,” Mary says. “The Helinox Chair One is made with strong aluminum alloy that provides the maximum strength-to-weight ratio.”

For the Spicy One

Spice Assortment

Shop on Burlap and Barrel

Tickle his tastebuds with this collection of spices, including a compelling array of cardamom, ground black lime and sun-dried tomato powder. The labels include background information, and he can access recipes on the website should he need some inspiration.

For the Bonfire Builder

Solo Stove Smokeless Fire Pit

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$349.99 at Amazon

Up his backyard camping game with the Solo Stove Bonfire. The popular smokeless fire pit is easy to light and clean, thanks to the removable ash pan. It’s big enough to warm the whole family, yet it only weighs 41 pounds, so he can take it anywhere. You can even get it etched with his name, initials or favorite team’s logo. If he already has a fire pit, consider a firewood subscription instead!

For the Multitasker

Leatherman 18-in-1 Multi-Tool

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Get him a gift that’s as practical as it is durable. The Leatherman Wave+ has long been the go-to choice for adventurers and DIYers. It opens with only one hand and offers 18 different tools, including pliers, wire cutters, spring-action scissors and a saw. “If you’re in the market for a multitool, you cannot do any better than the Leatherman Wave+,” says writer Allison T.S. Robicelli. “Even if you’re not handy, it’s a smart addition to your glove compartment, backpack or junk drawer.”

For the Guy With a Sunny Disposition

Polarized Sunglasses

Shop on Tifosi Optics

Protecting his vision has never been more stylish than with a pair of Tifosi sunglasses. “Several months ago, I received my first pair of Tifosis,” says Mary. “Tifosi sunglasses are shatterproof and scratch-resistant. Plus, like my beloved Ray-Bans, they have brown polarized lenses that reduce glare and provide protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays.”

For the Apartment Dweller

Microgreens Growing Kit

Shop on Gardyn

If he doesn’t have a ton of space to spare, an indoor garden is a way for him to enjoy the health benefits of fresh microgreens. “With the Gardyn, I don’t need to worry about having a convenient wall outlet or tons of space: You don’t need to plug it in and it’s a compact size,” says Product Tester Sheri Kaz. “The convenience of an all-in-one kit (plus 20 seed pads) makes it a user-friendly way to grow microgreens without soil. The space-saving design is perfect for the kitchen counter and adds a colorful dimension to your home.”

The best part? This indoor garden kit rings up at under $100! If he’s a budding plant parent, try one of these plant subscriptions for added variety.

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Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the Reader

Hands-Free Book Light

28.9931% OFF$19.99 at Amazon

“The Glocusent Neck Reading Light fixes the fatal flaw of every other book light I’ve used—instead of clipping awkwardly to your book and getting in the way of page turning, it sits around your neck like a scarf,” says  Deputy Editor Reina Galhea. “I use the warm tone on the lowest setting—often with only one of the two lights on—and it’s plenty to illuminate my pages without disturbing my snoozing husband.”

For the Precise Griller

Thermapen One

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$125 at Amazon

When he’s as precise as he is handy in the kitchen, he’ll appreciate the near-instant readings from this meat thermometer. “Whether I’m grilling, cooking or baking, the Thermapen One is always in my back pocket,” shares Catherine. “Its speed and accuracy mean I don’t have to rely on the feel of the meat for doneness, which is something professionals and home cooks alike will certainly benefit from. The display is bright and easy to read, even without my cheater glasses.”

For the Hiker

Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes

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$101.46 at Amazon

Intrepid hikers deserve a shoe that supports their feet and doesn’t leave blisters behind. Merrell hiking shoes have a cult following for their high-quality materials and long-lasting comfort. “I’ve owned several pairs of Moab shoes and never had to break them in. They’re ready to go when you are,” Mary says. “They offer impressive traction and good support, whether you’re hiking 1 mile or 10.”

For the Guy with a Brew Crew

Craft Beer Subscription

Shop on Great Clubs

A beer club is like a monthly snack club but for those who cherish bespoke brews rather than salty satisfaction. Each Great Clubs beer box arrives with 12 beers from small breweries across the nation each month. Subscribers can also upgrade their box to include a 24-pack for bigger crowds. Content Director Nicole Doster notes that her box contained a good amount of variety, ranging from a super light summer ale to a heavier, hoppier mountain ale.

For the Happy Camper

Double Hammock with Stand

$158.89 at Amazon

Kick back and relax with Christmas gift ideas for him like this camping hammock. As one of the best hammocks we tested, its extra-large, double capacity offers ample room—plus lots to spare! “There’s a lot to love about the Suncreat double hammock,” says Katie. “It checks nearly all the boxes for what the best hammock should look like: It’s easy to assemble and there are more than 18 prints, colors and patterns for any backyard style. And, perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly relaxing.”

For the Home Cook

Martha Stewart Meal Kit

Shop on Marley Spoon

Looking for Christmas gift ideas for him that encourage his interest in cooking? Marley Spoon, which comes with pre-portioned ingredients and comprehensive recipes, is perfect for him to hone his skills. There’s an ever-evolving menu of dishes to try and options for every diet and lifestyle. It’s the best meal subscription service we tried!

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Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the On-the-Go DIYer

PopGrip Multi-Tool

Shop on Walmart

14.9911% OFF$13.33 at Amazon

Most multitools are bulky and awkward to carry around. Not so with the inexpensive PopGrip SOG multi-tool, which measures in at under 2 inches. Bonus: this Christmas gift idea for him won’t get lost since it adheres to his phone.

“I use this PopSocket multitool most often to open boxes,” says professional woodworker Ethan O’Donnell. “The beveled, pointed lip of the bottle opener slides through manila-colored courier envelopes and packing tape with ease. My bratwurst-sized fingers appreciate the large size, and it functions nicely as a phone stand and grip. It’s also good as a beer bottle opener or conversation starter, which often go hand in hand.”

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the Concert Goer

Waterproof Binoculars

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99.955% OFF$94.99 at Amazon

If he’s a bird watcher or a fan of outdoor concerts, a good pair of travel-friendly binoculars will make sure he always has a perfect view. “Nocs Provisions Standard Issue binoculars are a must-have, lightweight adventure companion—they’re compact, affordable and, most importantly, waterproof,” says Sheri. “I can bring them along to an outdoor concert no matter the forecast and even leave them outside so they’re at the ready and I won’t miss any of the action.”

For the Thrill Seeker

Inflatable Kayak

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$193.49 at Amazon

An inflatable kayak is the perfect gift for the guy who dreams of cruising on the river but doesn’t have much storage space to spare. “I love that I can carry it in the bag, throw it in the trunk and have a relaxing day exploring the rivers and lakes,” says Sheri. “Nothing makes me feel more grounded or grateful than spending time in nature. Whether exploring or lounging, this kayak is double the fun on the water.”

For the Entertainer

Ooni Outdoor Pizza Oven

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Everybody loves pizza, but if the guy in mind loves it more than most, this easily portable, gas-burning pizza oven will turn his backyard into a slice of heaven. Stone-baked pizza in 60 seconds? It’ll be devoured in less time than that. Trust us, we tried the Ooni pizza oven and can attest to the delicious, professional-level pies it delivers.

For the Early Riser

Trade Coffee Subscription

Subscribe to Trade Coffee

Trade Coffee’s monthly subscription is the gift that keeps on giving every morning. You can choose from different roast preferences and grind sizes (or whole beans), and Trade curates a monthly shipment of four freshly-roasted options. Bonus: It secured a victory as the best coffee club we’ve tested! Read our full review for more on why we love Trade.

For the Man Cave

Frigidaire Retro Mini Fridge

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Every dedicated man cave (or she-shed) deserves a place to grab a cold brew. This stylish refrigerator is equipped with a separate freezer and comes with fun extras like a built-in bottle opener and a heart-shaped ice cube tray. It also boasts handles for easy relocation.

“Between the heart-shaped ice cube tray, the bottle opener and the catchy color, this fridge is so fun,” says Product Testing Manager Annamarie Higley. “It caught the eye of countless co-workers as I tested in the office. But it’s hard at work while it adds a punch to your space, too. The fridge and freezer temperatures were spot-on, and the storage systems are smart.”

For the Wellness-Obsessed Guy

Beast Blender

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$146 at Amazon

If gains are his main focus, the Beast Blender is a compact way to mix up his protein shakes. With a razor-sharp blade and mountains of accessories, it’s a handy tool for soups, smoothies and frozen cocktails, too.

“My Beast Blender has become a consistent part of my morning routine,” says Madi in her review of the blender. “I typically start my day with a protein shake after my morning exercise class, and I prefer blending with Beast as opposed to my Vitamix because it’s more compact and just kind of makes sense for a single serving.”

For the Audiophile

Roku Streambar SE

Shop on Roku

As a big fan of vinyl, I’ve had some experience with both analog and wireless speakers, running the gamut from $20 all the way up to a $100 set. Sound quality is where this Roku Streambar SE excels, making it a great gift for both audiophiles and movie buffs. The audio on this sound bar is crisp and clear, even at low volume. It brings out song details that normally blend into the background, like the bongos peeking out from Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September.” He’ll love listening to his favorite music and movies. Bonus: It doubles as a 4k media streamer!

For the Easily Distracted Guy

Ember Temperature-Control Coffee Mug

Shop on Williams Sonoma

With the Ember mug, he will never have to suffer through a cup of lukewarm—or worse—cold coffee again. Available in a bevy of colors, this 10-ounce smart mug has 80 hours of battery life to keep java at the perfect temperature. It connects to his phone so he can monitor the temperature directly, too.

For the Cookie Monster

Levain Cookie Club

Shop on Levain

These soft and chewy oversized cookies are a New York legend—and for good reason. They’re baked and shipped out every day for optimal freshness, and their beautiful packaging makes this sweet gift even sweeter. Levain is one of the best Christmas cookie delivery services—see our cookie review.

For the Fashionable Guy

Waterproof Backpack

Shop on Troubadour

If you can afford the splurge, he’ll never have to replace this Troubador backpack. The laptop bag fuses function, style, longevity and luxury. Moreover, it’s made of recycled vegan leather and has pockets for everything. My husband has used his for over two years, and it still looks as good as it did on day one!

For the Porch Sitter

Tiki Customizable Propane Fire Pit

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If enjoying a brew on the patio is his idea of living luxe, why let cold weather ruin his relaxation? The propane-fueled Tiki Fire Pit doubles as a patio heater for the chilly months when you snag the heater attachment.

“The propane heater attachment is worth every penny,” says Katie. “My family was visiting the first time we used this attachment, and we were all impressed by how hot it got. After 15 minutes of use, many of us even shed our jackets and blankets. As someone who finds most patio heaters bulky, I love the sleek, glass look of this attachment. I’m also impressed that it retrofits to something I can use in spring and summer, too, when I don’t need quite as much heat.”

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Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the Mechanic

Winter Mechanic Gloves

47.9815% OFF$40.78 at Amazon

“When I first slipped on the VGO Winter Mechanic glove, I felt like I was a character in Transformer vs Terminator,” says Sheri. “These gloves are shockingly waterproof, warm, agile and impact/vibration/abrasion-resistant. Perfect for snowmobiling, motorcycle riding, jackhammering or rugged construction work, these gloves make you feel like a superhero.”

For the Cuddler

Big Blanket

Shop on Big Blanket Co.

$179 at Amazon

If watching his sports team while snuggled up with the best blanket in the house is his idea of a good night, the original Big Blanket is the gift for him. “This 10×10-foot blanket (10×10 feet!) is massive and more than covers me and my husband,” says Katie. “In my testing, I was awed by the velvety soft fabric and plush, slightly weighted feel. It’s the ideal blanket for lounging on the couch, snuggling or even building a blanket fort. Plus, it’s machine washable.”

For the Movie Buff

Home Theater Projector

Shop on Walmart

Take his movie nights to the next level with the addition of this sleek projector. Compatible with USB and HDMI, it allows him to stream all his favorites with the click of a button. Plus, the 200-inch display offers a movie theater-like experience without having to leave his home.

I gifted this projector to my boyfriend, and we use it daily to catch up on our favorite shows. I’m consistently impressed by the display quality for its affordable price point. It’s such a fun alternative to keeping a TV in the bedroom. If you ask me, every guy needs this in their life.

For the Flavor King

Truffle Hot Sauce and Oil Set

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$74.99 at Amazon

There are few easier ways to elevate a dish than with truffle oil. This gift set from Truff—one of the big names in truffle oil—features black truffle oil, white truffle sauce and black truffle hot sauce. I add a dash of all of the above to eggs, pizza, toast, pasta or any quick meal my husband and I whip up together. It’s our favorite way to bring a little flavor boost to any meal.

For the Fry Guy

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

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$399.95 at Amazon

If he can’t resist anything crunchy, crispy, fried, roasted or toasted, this is the appliance for him. The editor-loved Breville Smart Oven is a combination toaster oven and air fryer that lets him cook anything to his favorite texture in an easier, healthier way. It’s also a nice gift for sisters who need to upgrade their kitchen appliances.

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For the Soda Connoisseur

GE Profile Ice Maker

599.0022% OFF$469 at Amazon

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Everyone seems to be obsessed with the GE nugget ice maker lately (including our editors!). The countertop appliance produces the chewy pellet ice cubes you’d get in a store-bought soft drink. It can produce up to 24 pounds of nugget ice per day and can even connect to Wi-Fi so he can control his new toy from an app on his phone.

For the All-American

MLB Used Bat Bottle Opener

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Combine his love of America’s greatest sport and America’s most-loved drink with a gift that nods to both. Sourced from the MLB, these handmade bottle openers allow him to crack open a cold one with an authentic, former game-day bat. Or, score with other Christmas gift ideas for him like these beloved beer gifts.

For the Golfer

Personalized Golf Balls

Shop on Mark & Graham

He’ll be the envy of all his friends at his next tee time with this set of personalized golf balls. Inside the monogrammed wood display case, he’ll find a dozen golf balls emblazoned with his initials, along with tees and pencils. The golf balls come in classic white, bright pink or neon yellow. And should he lose them, he can always order a refill at a discounted price.

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For the Minimalist

True Classic T-Shirts

179.9444% OFF$99.99 at Amazon

Whether you’re shopping for your dad, brother, father-in-law or boyfriend, every guy in your life needs a pack of True Classic tees. Available in sizes S to 4XL, these tees are beloved for complementing every body type while offering impeccable quality that lasts longer than regular plain white tees. He’ll thank you later for helping him build the ultimate capsule wardrobe thanks to this pack.

For the Adventurous Chef

Sous Vide Cooker

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$199.99 at Amazon

If he loves experimenting with new recipes and culinary techniques, he’ll love the sous vide cooker. It’s nothing if not high tech, with Wi-Fi connectivity, a touchscreen display and an app that allows him to monitor temperature and cook time right from his phone. It clips easily to any pot and heats up quickly and evenly, making it a perfect boyfriend gift.

For the Guy on the Go

Portable Espresso Maker

$79.90 at Amazon

When he’s rushing out the door on the way to his 9 a.m. meeting, he’ll appreciate that he doesn’t have to wait in line at Starbucks or—worse—miss his morning Americano altogether. With this portable espresso maker, he can brew his java on the go. All he needs is hot water, ground coffee and a few seconds—no batteries or charging required.

For the Work-From-Home Guy

Cozy Earth Bamboo Jogger

Shop on Cozy Earth

If he works from home (or simply loves to lounge), he needs a fresh set of comfy joggers. And if there’s one thing about us, we can’t stop recommending Cozy Earth for the job. Their bamboo pajama joggers come in five classic colors and several sizes. But the best part is the breathable bamboo viscose. They keep him cool, calm and collected all day long.

For the Food Scientist

Periodic Table of Rubs

Shop on Uncommon Goods

You’ve heard of the periodic table of elements, but what about the periodic table of rubs? This set of Christmas gift ideas for him comes with 12 flavor-rich spice rubs perfect for anyone into grilling (or who enjoys a good science pun). With labels that take you right back to high-school science class, the jars contain signature blends such as tandoori glory, raspberry chipotle and black and bleu.

For the Backyard Barbecuer

Meat Shredder Claws

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Gone are the days of shredding chicken with two kitchen forks. Now, he can slip on a pair of meat claws and rip and tear to his heart’s delight. They work quickly and effortlessly, and—let’s be honest—they’re just plain fun. Made of melt-proof nylon, the super-sharp claws work on any type of meat, including beef brisket, pork and chicken.

For the Cigar Smoker

Engraved Humidor

Shop on Etsy

Give him a safe spot to stash his extensive collection with this personalized humidor. Made of pure Spanish cedar, it’s big enough to hold 20 cigars. For a personal touch, you can choose from 24 designs for the engraved glass top. The humidor itself has a built-in humidifier and hygrometer for safekeeping.

For the Putter

Golf Cheese Board and Knives Set

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If you’re shopping for a man who never misses a tee time, consider this fun golf cheese board and knives set. It has a sand trap for snacks, a hidden compartment to hold the included utensils as well as a removable flag pin. Christmas gift ideas for him are even more special when you get them monogrammed or personalized with the message of your choice.

For Under $35

Automatic Pan Stirrer

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Whether they’re making homemade caramel or a gourmet risotto, chances are the recipe calls for a lot of stirring—and thus a lot of work, time and elbow grease. Save them from all of the above with this automatic pan stirrer. The genius gadget sits directly in a pot or pan and does what it says it does: stirs. It can run for up to nine hours on a single charge.

For the Chill Guy

Monogrammed Ice Bucket

Shop on Mark & Graham

Celebratory occasions call for celebratory drinks. And for those, he’ll need this monogrammed ice bucket. Handcrafted from stainless steel, it’s available in either silver or gold and, when emblazoned with his initials, will lend an air of elegance to any affair. It has a large 150-ounce capacity, so it can hold multiple bottles of bubbly for a crowd.

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysFor the Beer-Drinking Bro

GrowlerWerks uKeg

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178.007% OFF$164.99 at Amazon

If he believes beer tastes better on tap, he’ll be thrilled to receive the GrowlerWerks uKeg. The heavy-duty, vacuum-insulated growler automatically maintains pressure to keep beer carbonated and fresh. Available in stainless steel, black chrome and copper, it has an easy-to-use dispenser tap and a removable handle he can change out with one from his favorite brewery.

For the Rugged Gourmet

Canvas Apron

Shop on Hedley & Bennett

Make this year the last one he ruins a good shirt while working on the grill or in the kitchen. This canvas apron is inspired by tradesmen and will be something he’ll be proud to don over any outfit.

For the Business Traveler

Custom Leather Travel Bag

Shop on Mark & Graham

Few Christmas gift ideas for him are as timeless as a leather travel bag like the Harvey grooming kit. The upscale pebbled leather comes in five classic colors: camel, navy, black, espresso and chocolate. Each bag—which you can get monogrammed for an additional cost—has a convenient interior pocket that keeps his toiletries organized and a secure zipper so nothing falls out during travel.

For the Seltzer Snob

SodaStream

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$139.99 at Amazon

If he loves his bubbly—by that, we mean sparkling water—he’ll get a lot of use from the SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker. It turns plain water into a deliciously flavored fizzy beverage in just a few seconds. It’s easy to use, and there are a bunch of flavored syrups from which to choose, including grapefruit, strawberry-watermelon and even Pepsi.

For Your Salt Bae

HexClad Salt and Pepper Grinder Set

Shop on HexClad

Christmas gifts for him don’t always need to be sweet—they can be salty too! The HexMill duo very well could be the most deluxe salt and pepper grinders out there. The set is a great gift for any guy who already seems to have everything or who hosts a lot of dinner parties.

The grinders are made of solid aluminum and boast 10 settings, from super-fine to coarse. Although they’re pricey, they come with a lifetime warranty from HexClad.

For the Flavor Savorer

Barrel-Aged Balsamic Vinegar

Shop on Williams Sonoma

Balsamic vinegar? As a Christmas gift? Hear us out. This isn’t the stuff you find on the supermarket shelf. The VSOP 25-year barrel-aged balsamic vinegar is made through a special aging process in Modena, Italy. The unfermented pure wine must of white Trebbiano grapes is aged in oak barrels for added flavor and aroma. It’s unlike anything he’s ever tasted!

For Under $15

Shower Drink Holder

$15.01 at Amazon

There’s something about a shower beer (or soda or sparkling water) that just hits differently after a long day at work. Rather than precariously perching his can on the bathtub ledge, he can set it safely inside this shower drink holder. With a strong grip, it secures to almost any slippery surface, including glass and tile.

For Kitchen Experimenter

Soup Dumplings Kit

Shop on Mila

If one takeout order is never enough, this Chinese soup dumpling kit lets him whip up an authentic meal at home. With 100 pork and chicken dumplings, a trio of yummy sauces and a steamer to cook a batch up in just 10 minutes, this takes all-you-can-eat to delicious new levels. Add one of these gifts for chefs to make it a (flavor) bomb gift.

For the Chocoholic

Killer Brownies

Shop on Goldbelly

Some Christmas gift ideas for him are sure to satisfy his sweet tooth. One of the most popular gifts on Goldbelly, this Killer Brownies sampler box includes some of the best-selling flavors from the Ohio bakery. He’ll enjoy tasting the deliciously moist and fudgy desserts in flavors such as cookie dough, salted caramel or the original, which is layered with caramel and pecans.

For the Heat Seeker

Hot Sauce-Making Kit

Shop on Uncommon Goods

He douses everything in Tabasco and believes Sriracha is the best thing since sliced bread. This is why he’ll be obsessed with this hot sauce-making kit. It includes all the ingredients and tools necessary, including jars, labels, a funnel, gloves, vinegar, peppers and spices. He can create six bottles of his own fiery concoctions at home.

For Your Buddy Who Brunches

New York Bagel Box

Shop on Goldbelly

Bring the Big Apple to him with this bagel box, containing all the fixings for a quintessential New York brunch that’s big enough to feed him and five of his closest friends. The fluffy bagels come fresh from family-owned Essa Bagels. Handpick bagels and flavors of cream cheese, such as plain or scallion. The box also includes smoked lox.

For the Sammy Connoisseur

Breakfast Sandwich Maker

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$44.99 at Amazon

He can make his own version of an Egg McMuffin with this breakfast sandwich maker. The compact countertop appliance has racked up more than 15,000 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers. From start to finish, it cooks eggs and breakfast meat, toasts bread and then assembles the stack.

For the Nutcracker

Pistachio Pedestal

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Arguably one of the most novel Christmas gift ideas for him on the list, this pistachio pedestal is great for the guy who has everything. With almost 1,000 five-star ratings, it’s a popular choice among Uncommon Goods shoppers. Handmade from sustainable North American maple, it has two tiers: one for unopened nuts and one for discarded shells.

For the Musician

Guitar Charcuterie Board

Shop on Etsy

If you think he’s a cut above the rest, give him a board to match. Christmas gift ideas for him like this guitar-shaped charcuterie board are functional statement pieces for any entertainer. Choose between cherry, mahogany, walnut and maple wood, then opt for one of four unique finishes.

For the Gamer

Wireless Headphones

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$79.97 at Amazon

Whether he’s a gamer or a world traveler, these wireless headphones will go the extra mile. An impressive 35-hour Bluetooth playtime on a three-hour charge means hardly ever having to plug them in. Furthermore, water-resistance and active noise-canceling features keep his mind on his music and his music on his mind.

FAQ

What do you get a boyfriend who has everything for Christmas?

Some guys can be notoriously hard to shop for, especially if they frequently buy things for themselves. To find the right gift, listen closely to what they mention wanting or needing, even casually. You can also reach out to their friends or family members for ideas—or simply ask your boyfriend directly. He likely won’t mind. Another approach is to get something that nudges him out of his comfort zone to try something new. For example, if he’s a food lover but doesn’t cook much, a cooking-related gift might inspire him to explore a new interest.

What small gifts do guys like?

For smaller gifts, it’s best to focus on practical items. While socks might seem cliché, many guys appreciate them, especially if they serve a specific purpose, like hiking. Beyond usefulness, choose gifts that align with his lifestyle and interests. If it fits what he already enjoys, it’s likely to be a hit.

How much do you spend on your boyfriend’s Christmas gift?

How much you spend on your boyfriend’s Christmas gift depends on factors like the length of your relationship, your comfort level, your budget and whether you’ve set spending limits. If you’ve been together less than a year, $50-$100 is usually sufficient. After a year or more, consider spending $100-$150. For relationships lasting 5 to 10 years, you might spend more. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal situation and what feels right for both of you. Whatever your budget, the Christmas gift ideas for him above should spark some inspiration!

What is the 5 gift rule for men?

There isn’t necessarily a “rule” for holiday shopping, but if you want to follow a common gift-giving strategy, you can look to the 5 gift one by getting him something he wants, needs, will wear, read and experience.

What type of gift do men like the most?

Ultimately, we think it depends on their interests and hobbies. There’s no one gift that every man will like, but if you have a good idea of what he likes to do—whether it be gardening, gaming or cooking—you’ll definitely be able to find something he’s guaranteed to appreciate.

Why Trust Us

Although the holiday shopping season technically doesn’t start until the last months of the year, we here at Taste of Home keep our eye on all things gift-giving all year round. That means constantly having a finger on the pulse of what’s trending and testing them out for ourselves—think the yummiest new cookie brand, high-tech headphones, sleek cooking gear or awesome athleisure.

The authors of this article, Emily Way and Amanda Tarlton, are gift-giving pros. Emily is a shopping editor at Taste of Home and has tested more than 100 different products across cooking, lifestyle and DIY categories. Amanda is a freelance writer with over 10 years of experience in commerce journalism. Additional reporting was contributed by Melissa Lee, Content Updates Editor and Barbara Bellesi Zito, freelance contributor to Taste of Home.

The post 90+ Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Him appeared first on Taste of Home.

On Sale

Editor’s note: This product’s packaging has been rebranded from “Think” to “Focus,” but the coffee is the same.

Four Sigmatic was one of the pioneers of the mushroom coffee trend, and their Focus dark roast ground coffee is a classic for a reason. It features organic coffee blended with lion’s mane to improve focus and memory and chaga to boost overall mood and well-being. With over 26,000 ratings, it’s also the top-selling mushroom coffee on Amazon.

The blend uses log-grown Lion’s Mane and wildcrafted Chaga mushrooms. These two adaptogens are known for promoting mental clarity, focus and a smooth, sustained energy boost. Unlike many alternatives, it’s also organic, vegan and gluten-free. As far as taste, you’ll hardly notice anything other than your favorite type of coffee in there. With a standard caffeine content, you won’t be giving up your regular cup of joe in exchange for the beneficial adaptogen compounds, either. While Four Sigmatic’s website says you’ll see improved focus in as little as seven days, I can attest that I felt the effects on the first day.

Pro tip: If you prefer grinding fresh beans every morning, we recommend Four Sigmatic’s whole bean mushroom coffee.

The biggest drawbacks? It’s more expensive than standard coffee, and a few users find the taste slightly bitter or unusual. Caffeine sensitivity can vary from person to person, so effects may differ. Still, if you’re looking to boost focus without sacrificing your morning ritual, Four Sigmatic’s mushroom blend is a compelling option—both for its health benefits and its surprising similarity to the real thing.

On Sale

Lowest Price in 30 daysBest Benefits

Atlas+ Coffee Superblend

Shop on Atlas

39.995% OFF$37.99 at Amazon

We’re already big fans of Atlas Coffee Club for its round-the-world coffee and tea subscription services. Now, they’ve entered the mushroom coffee space with an Atlas+ Superblend that lives up to its name.

Each serving is packed with 2,250 milligrams of functional mushrooms, including ashwagandha, reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps. But the benefits don’t stop there. You’ll also get cassia cinnamon, probiotics, prebiotics, L-theanine, collagen and vitamins D3 and B12.

“It tastes like a lot of instant coffees, bitter with a slightly chalky mouthfeel,” says tester Katie Bandurski. “There’s no complexity or balanced flavor like you get with brewed coffee, but it’s considerably better than other mushroom coffees I’ve tried.” Our cup was easy to prep—simply blend a scoop of powder into hot water. The end result resembled beef bone broth more than coffee, but the benefits kicked in almost immediately.

“I was shocked to learn there’s only 45 milligrams of caffeine in each serving,” Katie explains. “I noticed an immediate difference in clarity and energy that picked me out of my afternoon slump.” As an added bonus, your first order comes as a kit featuring a coffee scoop, milk frother and recipe booklet. There’s also a latte version if you prefer some sweetness.

The biggest drawbacks are the taste (described by some users as burnt or bland) and skepticism around the health claims. While some experience noticeable benefits, others say they feel no difference. One Reddit user noted, “I got some, I actually liked it. It brewed pretty strong, but I drink my coffee black and strong so it was about how I normally like it.”

If you’re open to experimenting with instant mushroom coffee and prioritize convenience and added nutrients over flavor complexity, Atlas+ Superblend is worth a try—especially for midday focus and gut support.

Best Value

Laird Superfood Focus

Shop on Laird

$20 at Amazon

Laird’s Focus coffee calls for just 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per serving, meaning the more affordable 12-ounce bag will last you a lot longer than other ground mushroom coffee brands on this list that call for two to three times that amount. This makes it one of the more economical options, especially if you’re looking to integrate functional ingredients into your daily routine without burning through a bag too quickly.

This coffee is almost like your typical medium roast, except that it contains coffee cherry (an antioxidant), lion’s mane mushroom and Rhodiola extracts (an adaptogen botanical known to relieve stress) for a powerful and energizing blend of functional ingredients and superfoods. Leading with ground Peruvian coffee beans and caffeine, this blend is a fair trade for your current coffee brand.

Laird’s coffee beans are grown at a high altitude, which the company says is responsible for delivering a complex flavor profile. I’d have to admit, I agree. I preferred the taste of this blend compared to that of the stronger, darker roasts. Speaking of taste, Laird Superfoods also offers mushroom creamer to combine with their coffee for lasting focus and sustained energy.

If you’re looking for a jitter-free energy boost and a plant-powered coffee alternative, it may be worth a try. One Reddit user wrote about the Laird Superfood creamer, “It definitely helps me focus on work and it makes me more energized.”

Bottom line: Laird’s Focus coffee delivers a solid mix of adaptogens and antioxidants, but its effectiveness and flavor may not win over everyone.

Best Instant

La Republica Superfoods

$24.99 at Amazon

Add seven powerful mushrooms to Arabica coffee, and you get La Republica’s Focus & Energy. Even better? This coffee comes in a convenient, instant blend to take to work or on the go.

But you won’t have to trade in quality for convenience. La Republica sources its coffee from wild-grown fruiting bodies that are dual-extracted to release the maximum beneficial compounds. This blend offers an array of benefits—from increased energy and improved brain function to boosted immunity, digestion and stress support—keeping you healthy while enhancing your daily performance.

I found the taste to be very mellow and smooth, not at all bitter. Unlike other coffees that left me feeling jittery and scattered, La Republica made me feel focused and calm. That said, taste reviews are mixed—many users describe it as earthy or “dirt-like,” which may be off-putting to traditional coffee drinkers. Adding milk or creamer can help mellow the flavor.

One Reddit user noted, “The coffee itself tastes surprisingly good—not much different from regular coffee. I noticed a more sustained energy level without the usual midday crash.” However, the product label’s coffee-to-water ratio can be confusing, which may impact prep and taste if not followed carefully.

Overall, if you’re looking for a highly functional mushroom coffee with clean sourcing and third-party testing, La Republica stands out. Just be prepared for a flavor that leans more wellness tonic than café classic.

Best Latte

Clevr Coffee SuperLatte

Shop on Clevr

$29 at Amazon

What I like most about the Clevr Coffee SuperLatte is that it contains coffee, a blend of mushrooms and a creamer all in one. Like instant coffee, there’s no prep required—just pour in hot water and enjoy a drink that tastes professionally made in the comfort of your home and for a fraction of the cost.

While other popular mushroom brands contain their latte versions, I found Clevr’s SuperLatte to be superior in taste—comforting but not too sweet. The flavor is smooth and spiced, though some users say the coconut and monk fruit can overpower the blend. Clevr also sells a variety of other popular flavors, including Matcha, award-winning Sleeptime and Chai.

Aside from the taste, the latte provided instant energy I could wake up to every morning. Even better, Clevr’s latte is formulated with brain-boosting, mood-lifting ingredients like ashwagandha, reishi and lion’s mane, as well as heat-resistant probiotics for immune-boosting power. It tasted so good, I drank it too fast!

The flavor and texture are polarizing, though. Some customers find it overly thick or rich, while others also note they needed to use more than the recommended serving to get the right flavor intensity.

Still, for those looking for a wellness-forward, all-in-one mushroom latte that supports mood, digestion and focus, Clevr SuperLatte hits a sweet spot—just know the taste may not be for everyone.

Best Low-Caffeine

MUD/WTR

$50 at MUD/WTR

$49.99 at Amazon

MUD/WTR is neither mud nor water: It’s a mushroom coffee that ditches most of the caffeine for a potent blend that’s as charged with health benefits as it is with energizing properties. Made with masala chai and a range of organic spices, the flavor veers more toward a chai latte than coffee.

Don’t let its low caffeine content fool you. It still contains 2,248 milligrams of energy and immune-boosting adaptogens from chaga, reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps. With about 35 milligrams of caffeine per serving, MUD/WTR offers a gentle lift that some users find calming and focused, while others say the effects are too mild. Some also report unwanted side effects like nausea or dizziness.

MUD/WTR offers a subscription service, so you never have to worry about running low. (These are our other favorite coffee subscription boxes.) However, customer service feedback is mixed. Some users have had trouble canceling their subscriptions or getting timely support. We suggest sampling before committing to a monthly delivery.

Bottom line: MUD/WTR offers a wellness-forward coffee alternative with adaptogens and a unique flavor, but it’s best suited for open-minded sippers who don’t mind some sediment—or a bold taste.

Best for Brain Health

Shroomi Dark Roast Focus Mushroom Coffee

$35.99 at Amazon

Here’s a coffee that works smarter, not harder: Shroomi’s blend contains 100% organic Arabica ground coffee beans and 1,000 milligrams of brain-boosting, organic lion’s mane mushroom in every cup. As a champion for mental health awareness, Shroomi offers a line of mushroom coffees and shots to help deliver an array of health benefits from various mushroom blends.

I tested their dark roast with lion’s mane, which, as their website states, is a mushroom that “has been clinically shown to naturally support memory, focus and concentration.” I found the taste comforting and similar to regular coffee, and I was pleasantly surprised to find I felt immediately energized, focused and in a positive mood. While the initial effects may be attributed to the caffeine content, I’m eager to fuel my brain every morning to reap the long-term benefits.

That said, Shroomi contains a relatively low dosage of lion’s mane compared to brands like Four Sigmatic or Ryze, which may limit its long-term functional benefits. Also, some users report not noticing any clear difference in energy or focus, and a few mention mild digestive discomfort.

Packaging inconsistencies have also been flagged by customers, including unclear expiration dates or minor product settling. Still, Shroomi stands out for being certified organic, non-GMO and more affordable than many other mushroom coffees.

In short, Shroomi is a great starter option for mushroom coffee newcomers who value good taste, affordability and clean ingredients.

Best Extract Powder

ReNude Chagaccino Superfood Coffee Boost

Shop on ReNude

$29.99 at Amazon

Although it doesn’t contain coffee itself, ReNude’s Chagaccino Superfood Coffee Boost powder features a powerful blend of mushrooms and adaptogens that can be stirred into your favorite coffee or espresso. This makes it ideal for coffee lovers who don’t want to give up their favorite roast but still want to reap the benefits of mushrooms and superfoods.

The immune-boosting powder features 500 milligrams of wild foraged chaga mushroom per serving, which contains 40 times more antioxidants than blueberries. Visit ReNude’s website for a full list of chaga benefits, which include stress relief, anti-aging properties and improved gut health. However, some users have reported digestive discomfort or mild blood sugar spikes—likely due to the natural sweeteners or adaptogen blend.

I blended my chagaccino with my favorite cold brew and some plant-based milk over ice. While I felt the taste was fantastic, the instructions state that you can use less powder for a less sweet result (but who would want to do that?).

Overall, ReNude Chagaccino is a flavorful, health-forward way to enhance your coffee routine—or replace it entirely—for those looking to boost immunity and reduce stress with minimal prep.

Best for Gut Health

Velty Uncaffeinated Instant Coffee

Shop on Velty

Each serving of Velty’s instant coffee contains 4 grams of organic, gut-friendly ingredients to support digestion and, as their site states, “nurture the connection between mind and gut.” Since coffee can cause upset stomachs for some, it’s only natural that this gut-friendly digestif is also caffeine-free.

With ingredients such as Jerusalem artichoke inulin and mesquite powder, this does not taste like your ordinary coffee, but more like a comforting broth. If you can get past the unique flavor profile in exchange for a daily dose of gut-friendly ingredients and immune-boosting mushroom compounds, this may just be the coffee for you. (We think you’ll be happy trusting your gut instincts on this one!)

Another standout is Velty’s ethical sourcing, which uses beans grown by women farmers in Nicaragua. The product is also easy to prepare: just stir into hot water. However, some users report that it doesn’t fully dissolve, occasionally leaving behind a gritty texture. Compared to other decaf or caffeine-free mushroom drinks, it offers a rare combination of prebiotics, lion’s mane and zero caffeine.

If you’re looking for a gentle, non-caffeinated coffee alternative that’s kind to your gut and packed with functional ingredients, Velty is worth a try.

Best for Calm Focus

Everyday Dose Mild Roast Coffee+

Shop on Everyday Dose

$39.99 at Amazon

I was eager to try Everyday Dose because it contains L-theanine, an amino acid that I’ve recently started taking for its calming effects and sleep support. It might seem strange that the same cup of coffee that perks you up in the morning can also make you sleep better at night, but that’s why multi-benefit mushroom coffee is having a moment.

If you want all the benefits of mushroom coffee without it tasting like you’ve just been foraging, this one fits the bill. Each cup contains 5 grams of collagen protein and 100% fruiting body mushroom extracts—half chaga, half lion’s mane—that produce, to my pleasant surprise, a mild taste just like regular coffee. I did detect a slight earthy smell, but it was much more subtle than the other coffees I sampled.

The powdery texture is much finer than coffee grounds. I used a frother and found that it dissolved very quickly in hot water, leaving no sediment at the bottom of the cup. You can also add it to cold water, but I needed a spoon to dissolve it further and kept stirring my straw as I drank.

I brewed Everyday Dose in a variety of ways to get the full experience. As a hot cup of black coffee, it tasted like a light, mild roast. There was no bitterness and no taste of mushrooms, but there were some chocolatey undertones. I then tried a cup with soy milk, just like the way I always drink my coffee, and enjoyed the light, pleasant taste. It was also nice and smooth over ice with some soy milk, with no bitterness or aftertaste. Everyday Dose also works as a base for lattes, smoothies and as a boost to overnight oats and baked goods.

I alternated this coffee—which has just 45 grams of caffeine— with my regular coffee over several days, and I could tell the difference. With each Everyday Dose cup, I felt more focused and less overwhelmed from practically the first sip. Unlike with regular caffeine, where my brain takes off faster than the rest of me, I was able to concentrate on my to-do list without getting sidetracked by all the other shiny things. My partner also swapped out his regular coffee to give this a try, and he said it’s the only coffee he’s had that lifted the brain fog instantly.

I enjoyed feeling a calm sort of energy that allowed me to power through my day. This was everything I would want in a coffee: the sustained focus and motivation to take on the day without the crash or jitters.

Best with Vitamins

VitaCup Mushroom Focus Coffee

$18.95 at Amazon

If you’re someone who wants the benefits of a mushroom coffee without the mushroom taste, then VitaCup is for you. This mushroom coffee brings functionality to your morning routine with the addition of essential vitamins, antioxidants and prebiotic fiber, in addition to the touted brain-energizing focus from the lion’s mane and chaga mushroom blend.

It’s easy to brew in either a pour-over or drip coffee maker. Just add 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water and brew—five minutes for drip, and two to four minutes for pour-over. Want a faster pick-me-up? Brew the same 2 tablespoons as a shot of espresso.

This coffee tastes like a premium cup of medium-dark roast coffee, not mushrooms. It’s advertised as being full-bodied with earthy undertones and a smooth finish, and I would agree. I prefer a lighter roast, but I did appreciate the aroma and smoothness—it felt like I was drinking high-end coffee. There was a bit of an acidic taste, but it was pleasant otherwise. There are some earthy undertones, but other than that, it tasted like a regular cup of coffee that I enjoyed with a splash of my regular soy milk. In my experience, iced coffee is always a bit bolder, and that was the case with VitaCup, although I also detected more acidity and a bit of an aftertaste.

VitaCup contains 110 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which is more than the other best mushroom coffees on our list. As someone who is sensitive to caffeine, I felt it—I didn’t experience the calming effect like I’ve had with other mushroom coffee I’ve sampled. In fact, the effects were similar to those of a regular coffee. I felt more energized, but my brain was still scattered, and I did have some jitters. I liked the energy, but I didn’t get the sharpened focus that the lion’s mane is supposed to promote.

As someone who follows a plant-based diet, I appreciate that VitaCup contains 100% of your daily recommended value of B12, and then some. At 120 micrograms per serving, this is more than enough B12, especially if you enjoy a few cups a day. But don’t worry, there is no risk in consuming excess B12—your body will simply excrete what it doesn’t use.

New Testing in 2025

In my quest to find the best good-for-you pick-me-ups, I tested additional brands to see how mushroom coffee continues to evolve. While taste profile is important (especially if you’re a coffee lover like me), the health and wellness benefits are what make mushroom coffee so popular.

I added Everyday Dose Mild Roast Coffee+ in the Best for Calm Focus category because, among other beneficial ingredients, it contains L-theanine, which promotes calming effects in every cup. Everyday Dose might taste the same as regular coffee, but it’s got far less caffeine, so there are no jittery effects.

With its full dose of B12, VitaCup Mushroom Focus Coffee is worthy of its place in the Best with Vitamins category. It tastes like a cup of high-end coffee, but you’re also getting in vitamins, antioxidants and even prebiotic fiber with every sip.

What To Look for When Buying Mushroom Coffee

The number of mushroom coffees on the market today can be overwhelming. The whole point of looking for a mushroom coffee is to help relieve stress, not add to it, right? Here are a few important factors to consider to help make the process a little easier:

• Product type: Mushroom coffee comes in several forms—traditional coffee blends with mushroom extracts, latte mixes and superfood-enhanced powders. Think about how you like to prepare your coffee and choose accordingly.
• Caffeine content: First things first: Are you looking to cut down on or eliminate your caffeine intake in exchange for more natural energy? Or do you still want to enjoy your daily cup of joe but with the added health benefits of adaptogens? There are many mushroom coffee brands, so tackling this step first will help to narrow your options significantly. Some of the bigger mushroom coffee brands offer a variety of caffeine levels, while others are strictly decaf. Look for labels that clearly indicate whether the blend is fully caffeinated, low-caffeine or caffeine-free.
• Coffee quality: For optimal taste (especially for the coffee connoisseurs out there), the quality of coffee beans used is also an important factor. Check the company website or packaging to learn how they source and cultivate their coffee beans. From there, select a roast that suits your preference. If you don’t want to shelf your current coffee, no problem! Opt for a mushroom powder that can be added to your favorite coffee or espresso for an adaptogenic boost. Flavor profile also matters—some brews are earthy and bold, while others are smoother or mocha-like.
• Coffee preparation: Just like regular coffee, you can purchase ground or instant (or even coffee pods) depending on your preference and needs. Purchase ground coffee for use in a drip coffee maker, French press or pour-over, or grab an instant version for convenience when on the go (or if you don’t want to hog the office coffee maker with your mushroom brew). If convenience is key, stick with instant mixes or single-serve pods.
• Mushroom type and quantity: Depending on your intended use, select a coffee that contains a mushroom variety that will work for you. Chaga, reishi, turkey tail, shiitake and maitake have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in immune support. Lion’s mane has been shown to help with focus and memory and promote brain health. Cordyceps has been touted for its ability to provide natural and sustained energy. While the quantity of mushroom content per coffee appears to range from 500 to 2000 milligrams per serving, selecting a coffee that utilizes the beneficial mushroom compounds from “fruiting bodies” and not just the mycelium (i.e., root) is important. Fruiting bodies are generally considered more potent than mycelium, so prioritize blends that call this out.
• Ingredients: Before purchasing your mushroom brew, scan the ingredients to ensure there are no added fillers, unnecessary flavors or sweeteners. Some shroom brews may contain additional helpful ingredients, such as ashwagandha, prebiotics or healthy spices like turmeric or cinnamon. Lastly, if organic ingredients are important to you, look for a mushroom coffee that includes the USDA Organic Seal. Other certifications like vegan and gluten-free can also be helpful indicators of quality.
• Price: Of course, you’ll also want to consider the price when choosing the best mushroom coffee. In doing so, pay close attention to the serving size to determine how far your mushroom brew will get you. Some higher-priced options offer better mushroom dosages or premium coffee beans, so it’s worth checking cost per serving for value.

How We Found the Best Mushroom Coffee

In researching and testing the best mushroom coffees, I found a curated coffee alternative blend for just about everyone, considering key factors such as taste, caffeine content and intended use (focus, energy, immunity and gut health—just to name a few).

I purchased a Cuisinart coffee maker and hot water system to test a variety of ground and instant coffee. This allows for brewing drip coffee, and the handy hot water dispenser allows me to conveniently dissolve instant coffee for a quick cup of joe.

During the first round of testing, I sampled the mushroom coffee blends for 11 non-consecutive days (which I reserved for work days where I needed to focus) to evaluate their taste and effects.

On the first day of testing, I made all of the coffee brands. I evaluated and compared each based on their flavor profile without any added creamer, milk or sweeteners (except for ReNude’s Chagaccino, which is a mushroom powder that is to be added to regular coffee with the addition of plant-based milk and ice).

After that, I tested one mushroom coffee per workday and noted the favorable effects on energy (immediate and sustained), mood and ability to focus, as well as any potential unwanted effects from the caffeine content of some of the brands.

When testing the two additions to this best mushroom coffee list, I sampled hot and iced cups of each coffee, both black and with a splash of soy milk (my preferred way of drinking coffee). I evaluated their flavor profiles and any favorable/unfavorable effects in a similar way to the others.

From my testing, I narrowed the group down and selected the best mushroom coffees for this list. Because no two mushroom coffee drinkers are alike, the coffees have been ranked based on intended uses to find the right shroom brew for you.

Other Mushroom Coffees We Tried

• OM Mushroom Superfood Coffee Blend: While most mushroom coffees taste a little off compared to a classic brew, the OM blend was very bold, strong and earthy. That said, it has one of the best blends of whole mushrooms and beta-glucans, which provide immune support. If you can get past the taste, it’s worth a shot for the overall health benefits.
• Ryze Mushroom Coffee: This was by far my least favorite-tasting mushroom coffee, thanks to its acidic tang. I tried Ryze on a Tuesday morning after a long weekend and a night of poor sleep. It did sustain my energy without jitters, scattered thoughts or stress, but the benefits were not strong enough to overcome the unpleasant taste.

FAQ

Is mushroom coffee good for you?

Mushrooms have long been touted for their medicinal and nutritional benefits on brain health, immunity support and digestion. Whether we can reap these same benefits from the dried and extracted mushrooms contained in these coffee brands is still being researched. That being said, most mushroom coffees contain less caffeine, which can positively change your daily routine. Caffeine, when consumed in high amounts or during unfavorable times of day, can increase cortisol (a hormone produced during times of stress), cause unwanted jitters or anxious feelings and prevent you from getting decent sleep. On the other hand, mushroom coffees have been marketed for their ability to provide natural and sustained energy throughout the day without a crash.

While mushroom coffee can be enjoyed by many, those with difficulty digesting mushrooms should avoid it. Those with kidney issues or a history of kidney stones should consult with their doctor first (due to the oxalate content of some mushroom varieties).

Is mushroom coffee really beneficial?

Research on each mushroom type is still developing. Here are their reported health benefits:

• Lion’s mane: One of the more common adaptogen extracts contained in mushroom coffee, lion’s mane has cognitive benefits, including improved focus, memory and mood.
• Chaga: This mushroom is rich in antioxidants (significantly greater than that of acai, pomegranate or blueberries) to help support immune function and overall well-being.
• Reishi: Contains health-promoting properties that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
• Cordyceps: As an adaptogen that helps relieve stress and fatigue, cordyceps improves energy, stamina and endurance.
• Turkey tail: Like chaga and reishi, the turkey tail supports immune function and overall health.
• Shiitake: Rich in B vitamins, minerals and fiber, shiitake mushrooms offer immune-boosting benefits.
• Maitake: Rich in beta-glucans, maitake has favorable effects on cholesterol and cardiovascular health.

Why You Should Trust Us

As a culinary dietitian, I have nearly a decade of experience working with restaurants and food manufacturers to provide nutrient analysis and label consulting for thousands of menu items and retail goods. As a result, I am no stranger to scrutinizing an ingredient statement or nutrition facts label to ensure our recommendations are quality products from reputable brands. Plus, as a daily coffee drinker on the hunt for great taste and sustained energy without unwanted jitters or crashes, I can discern the best flavor profiles while also evaluating each mushroom coffee brand’s reported effects.

The post 11 Best Mushroom Coffee Brands of 2025, Dietitian-Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Taste of Home.

With the holidays coming up, it’s the perfect way to gain extra room for food, drinks and dishes when you’re having company. And right now, during The Home Depot’s Fall Savings Event, you can snag a goes-with-everything white kitchen island cart for less!

Editor's Pick

The Home Depot Kitchen Cart

This portable kitchen cart has smooth-gliding wheels and gives you bonus space for holiday hosting. We'll toast to that!

Shop at The Home Depot

The Home Depot Kitchen Cart Features

This white kitchen cart from The Home Depot is a true workhorse, combining smart storage with style. Its wood veneer top and built-in cabinet make it perfect for housing your go-to appliances, such as a microwave, coffee maker or toaster.

Measuring about 36 inches high, 51 inches wide and 18 inches deep, it’s available in a creamy neutral hue that will match any kitchen’s vibe. The smooth, heat-resistant and moisture-proof top is built to handle everyday use. (And even your Thanksgiving turkey—it supports up to 220 pounds!)

You’ll get two drawers for cutlery and napkins, open shelves for easy access to dishes, and two locking wheels so you can move it wherever needed. A towel rack and spice rack round out this multitasking unit, so everything you need is right where you need it.

Pros

• Available for 38% off during the Fall Savings Event
• Microwave cabinet
• Solid wood desktop
• Spice rack and towel rack
• Two locking wheels
• Free and easy returns

Cons

• Assembly may be cumbersome
• Some reviewers note misaligned pre-drilled holes

How to Use a Kitchen Cart

This wheeled kitchen cart is the perfect portable helper for the busy holiday season ahead. Think of it as a mini kitchen island or rolling sideboard that goes wherever it’s needed—kitchen, dining room or basement party zone. Here are a few smart ways to use it:

Extra Prep Space

When holiday cooking kicks into high gear, a kitchen cart offers extra counter space when you need it most. It’s perfect for chopping veggies (with a cutting board), assembling dishes or rolling out dough. Invite an extra pair of hands to help without crowding your main counters.

Smart Storage and Organization

Hosting often means busting out more kitchen gear and gadgets. Kitchen carts are a smart option for storing and organizing extra pots, serving trays, utensils and small appliances that make an appearance during the holiday season. A kitchen cart keeps them organized and within reach. I like to roll mine near the living room to hold our ice machine and cups (a bit like a bar cart) so guests can grab drinks without piling into the kitchen.

Hot Cocoa Bar

This year, I want to transform my kitchen cart into a mini hot cocoa bar, complete with hot cocoa, marshmallows, candy canes and some decorative greenery. If your family is full of coffee lovers, then a coffee station may be the way to go. Just roll it into the dining room for those after-dinner pick-me-ups.

Serving Space

Tight on space? Use your cart as a portable buffet or serving station for small plates, napkins, cutlery and more. I’ve used my kitchen cart to hold appetizers while hosting. It’s a simple way to keep things flowing when you’re entertaining a crowd.

Where to Buy

Editor's Pick

The Home Depot Kitchen Cart

Make holiday hosting easier with this rolling kitchen cart, complete with a spice rack and towel holder.

Shop at The Home Depot

Snag this practical kitchen cart during The Home Depot’s Fall Savings Event for just $221. That’s a 38% savings! It’s bound to make holiday hosting a breeze with more space, more style and less stress.

Sponsored

The post Here’s Why a Kitchen Cart Is Our Secret Weapon for Holiday Hosting appeared first on Taste of Home.

October is the perfect month to start making your list and checking it twice. Shopping early means more stock availability, zero shipping surcharges and plenty of time to find the best price. And it just so happens that Walmart is getting in on the fun with major markdowns on two of our favorite kitchen and home brands. Here’s everything you need to know about the Walmart Deals event going on now.

Walmart Deals October 2025

The holiday shopping season is finally here! Score major savings on nearly every Walmart category, now through October 12.

Shop on Walmart

What is the Walmart Deals event?

Walmart Deals is the ultimate kickoff to the holiday shopping (and savings!) season. Typically run against Amazon Prime Day, Walmart’s October Deals event includes deep discounts on nearly every category. This year’s sale starts Tuesday, October 7 and goes through Sunday, October 12. That’s nearly an entire week of discounts on home and kitchen finds, toys, beauty, lawn and garden, electronics and more.

Here at Taste of Home, our editors are particularly interested in the discounts on two of our all-time favorite kitchen collections: The Pioneer Woman and Beautiful by Drew Barrymore. These troves of budget-friendly buys are stylish and high-quality when full price. But marked down? They’re steals too good to pass up.

Top Kitchen and Home Deals

The Pioneer Woman 12-Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot

Shop on Walmart

Sale price: $24.97

Fall is the ideal season for batch-prepping cozy freezer meals. This massive stock pot can hold up to 12 quarts of chili, vegetable stock, pasta—you name it. Pick one up for half price during Walmart Deals.

The Pioneer Woman 12-Piece Bamboo Melamine Dinnerware Set

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Sale price: $19.88

Ooh la la! This darling melamine dinnerware set is oh-so pretty in pink. It comes with four dinner plates, salad plates and cereal bowls and is decorated in a lovely floral print. Grab a set for just under $20—that’s less than $2 a piece.

The Pioneer Woman Laurel Tufted Sofa

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Sale price: $488

If you have “furniture upgrade” on your list, there’s no better time to buy. This tufted velvet sofa comes in either antique white or jade colorways, and is an ideal addition to a sitting room, home office or bedroom. Pick one up and save $190 in the process.

Beautiful 6-Quart Enamel Dutch Oven

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Sale price: $43.97

Roast chicken? Check. Big-batch soups? Yep. Thanksgiving sides? You bet! There’s little this enameled Dutch oven can’t do. And, for a limited time, you can save over $30 on the rose-colored hue.

Beautiful Bar Cart

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Sale price: $98

No host wants to spend half of the party fixing drinks. This gorgeous wood bar cart is the ultimate holiday hosting hack, allowing guests plenty of space to mix their own beverages. You could also use it to hold coffee essentials or plants. Regardless of the use, it’s on sale for just under $100—which is $40 off.

Beautiful Portable To-Go Blender

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Sale price: $18.97

Once you know the convenience of a cordless personal blender, you’ll never go back! This rechargeable appliance can be yours in the “rose” hue for just under $19. That’s nearly half price. Enjoy smoothies, sauces, dips and more all fall long.

Where to Shop

Walmart Deals October 2025

Don't miss the best chance to shop at Walmart this fall. These savings are just as good as Black Friday!

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Add your favorite finds from The Pioneer Woman and Drew Barrymore Beautiful to your Walmart cart. The sale goes through Sunday, October 12—or while supplies last.

The post Walmart Deals Are Here! Save Up to 50% on The Pioneer Woman and Drew Barrymore Beautiful Collections appeared first on Taste of Home.

Sale price: $49.99

Looking for a simple coffee fix? The Keurig K-Mini gets the job done while being easy on the budget. “The K-Mini has no fancy bells or whistles, but it doesn’t need them. It’s efficient and ensures you have coffee on demand, whenever you need it,” says product tester Cher Checchio in our best Keurigs roundup. On sale for Prime Day for around $50, you can afford to splurge on some fancy K-Cups!

Keurig 3-Month Brewer Maintenance Kit

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Sale price: $10.99

Speaking of Keurigs, Prime Day is the best time to stock up on a brewer maintenance kit. This handy add-on keeps your machine working in tip-top shape, thanks to the included descaling solution, water filter cartridges and rinse pods. We tested it when exploring how to clean a Keurig and can confirm it gets the job done. Pick up one kit (or stock up on a few) for just under $11.

Ninja Creami

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Sale price: $179.95

This is not a drill: The Ninja Creami is available for under $200! This cult-favorite ice cream maker impressed our editors with its thoughtfully designed settings and delicious results.

Cutluxe Chef Knife Set

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Sale price: $59.24

This chef’s knife set from Cutluxe is a smaller version of the best value kitchen knife set we tested. Each set, currently available for 46% off, also has a lifetime warranty against material or workmanship defects, making this an easy splurge.

Gracula Garlic Crusher

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Sale price: $9.95

This cute little vampire doesn’t want to suck your blood. Instead, he’d love to mince your garlic for you. Just in time for Halloween, this editor-loved garlic press is available at a blood-curdling 50% discount!

Mueller Pro Chopper

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Sale price: $24.99

Available at a 50% discount, you really can’t go wrong with this pro chopper. In our tests, we love how easy and quick it makes meal prep. Chop up potatoes, dice tomatoes or slice cucumbers safely and without a chef’s knife with this 10-in-one tool.

Bee's Wrap

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Sale price: $14.39

We could go on and on about why you should use beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap. However, the adorable patterns offered by Bee’s Wrap should be enough to convince you! These reusable wraps are mold-resistant and create a seal with the heat from your hands, sealing freshness in.

Alva Nesting Cookware Set

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Sale price: $159.20

This Alva cookware set is one of the most space-saving cookware designs we’ve seen. After testing this set, I can safely say that Alva cookware is a great option for anyone who wants to streamline their cookware and maximize storage space.

Vahdam Tea Advent Calendar

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Sale price: $11.99

It’s Advent calendar season, and Amazon Prime Day is a great time to snag some of our favorites on sale. We tested this Vahdam tea calendar several years in a row and are always impressed with its value and variety. At such a low price point, pick up a few—they make excellent holiday gifts!

Rotary Cheese Grater

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Sale price: $19.98

A rotary cheese grater turns a basic chore like grating cheese into a fun activity that’s easy, safe and simple to clean up. We tested several models, but this Cambom option is our favorite of them all thanks to its numerous blades and smooth crank.

Nessie Tea Infuser

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Sale price: $9.95

This charming tea infuser makes a great white elephant gift for tea lovers. Equal parts adorable and useful, it’s bound to be a great gift this season. It’s also silicone, which makes it super easy to clean. Snag it on sale and enjoy a hefty 41% markdown!

HexClad Wok

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Sale price: $83

We loved trying out the HexClad wok. Like the other hybrid cookware options from the brand, this wok performed impressively during testing, with our tester noting that even veggies get a nice little char thanks to this useful tool. Pick one up and enjoy a savings of more than $35!

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee

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Sale price: $17.98

Lavazza espresso outperformed all the other espresso beans we tested. The flavor is ideal for pretty much any drink, whether you’re looking to sip it on its own or with milk. Whether I poured a shot or foamed milk for a cappuccino, Lavazza did not disappoint! Save 22% when you stock up during Amazon Prime Day.

Cuisinart Coffee Grinder

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Sale price: $53.99

The Cuisinart coffee grinder impressed our team, winning the best budget slot in our search for the best coffee grinders. At such a low price point, you’re already getting a great deal. But shave off another $20 and you can get this effective option at a total steal!

Danish Dough Whisk

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Sale price: $13.99

A classic Danish dough whisk is an essential baking tool. We love using these clever tools for difficult mixes like bread, since the dough doesn’t stick to the thin wires. On sale for under $15, this option is a great and inexpensive investment.

Thermos Coffee Tumbler

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Sale price: $18.61

This Thermos coffee tumbler won us over in our tests for the best coffee tumbler, securing a top spot as our overall favorite. With a dishwasher-safe build and a hook for tea bags, it’s a splurge-worthy find for traveling tea and coffee people alike.

GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware

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Sale price: $399.99

When our Product Testing Team tried 19 ceramic cookware brands, they found a clear winner: GreenPan Valencia Pro. While we only tried the brand’s skillet, you can score an entire set on sale for $399.99 this Prime Day. “If you’re looking for a quality pan that sears like a dream, the GreenPan Valencia is a solid option with an effective nonstick finish and induction-compatible magnetic base,” says product tester Dylan Fischer. The 22-piece set is a great option for holiday gifting, as well.

KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer

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Sale price: $89.99

If, like me, your kitchen is short on outlet space, you won’t regret updating small kitchen appliances to their cordless counterparts. The KitchenAid Go system is the best of the best, offering incredible performance and battery life. After two years of consistent use, my cordless hand mixer is still going strong. Plus, for a limited time, you can save $50.

Dawn PowerWash Bundle

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Sale price: $11.63

“Dawn PowerWash is a lazy cleaner’s dream,” says product tester Amanda Tarlton in her PowerWash review. “Just spray, wipe, rinse and voila—clean dishes with almost zero effort on your part.” If that glowing review doesn’t convince you to click “add to cart,” we’re not sure what will! Except, perhaps, for the incredible Prime Day markdown, which gets you a PowerWash and three refills for just under $12.

Sans Air Purifier

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Sale price: $309.54

Fall allergies? An air purifier can help. Specifically, the Sans air purifier. “If you have allergies, pets or a busy household and want to improve your air quality, this is a great pick,” says Shopping Editor Mary Henn in her Sans review. “It’s easy to use, looks nice, ultra-quiet, and honestly, it just seems to get the job done.” Plus, for a limited time, you can save $60 on the white colorway.

TIKI Smokeless Fire Pit

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Sale price: $285

Is there anything better than relaxing around a fire pit in the crisp, cool fall air? Well, maybe snagging said fire pit for 28% off. I tried the TIKI Patio when testing smokeless fire pits and can confirm it’s a solid, well-built option. It also has a unique look if the stainless steel smokeless pits aren’t your style.

Anolon X Skillets

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Sale price: $139.99

When we describe cookware as “sear-iously amazing,” we mean it. Former professional chef and product tester Allison Robicelli called Anolon X cookware “a versatile everyday frying pan that’s attractive and built to last.” You can pick up a two-pack of these heirloom-worthy skillets for just under $140 on Prime Day.

Shark Cordless Pro Vacuum

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Sale price: $199.99

Named the “best budget” Shark vacuum in our extensive testing, the Shark Cordless Pro delivers an array of showstopping features at a lesser price point. While it does have a few quirks (namely, hair wrapping around the brush roll), it did a great job sucking dust from a dirty dining chair and picking up large debris. If you need to replace your vacuum, this is a great mid-range option—especially when marked down to $199.99.

Stasher Stretch Lids

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Sale price: $14.99

Tired of spending money on throwaway plastic wrap? Us, too. Shopping Editor Emily Way upgraded to these reusable Stasher silicone lids and never looked back. “These silicone stretch lids are now a kitchen essential,” Emily writes in her Stasher review. “Not only do they take up very little room in a drawer or cupboard, but they also easily store away directly in the box they came in.” Grab a four-pack on sale for just under $15. That’s equivalent to about three rolls of cling film.

The Pink Stuff Cleaning Bundle

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Sale price: $13.87

Yes, it went viral. And yes, we still find The Pink Stuff does a great job cleaning an array of household surfaces. Product tester Madi Koetting tried it on her stovetop, oven and kitchen sink for glowing results. “I’ve been using the paste for over a year now and can confidently say nothing cleans my dirty sink like it,” she explains in her Pink Stuff review. “It saves time from rigorously scrubbing with ordinary spray.” A three-piece bundle is on sale for $13.87, making now the best time to stock up.

Ninja Foodi Knife System

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Sale price: $179.99

If your kitchen knife set could use an upgrade, look no further than the Ninja Foodi system. It’s 40% off for Prime Day and comes with 12 pieces, including a built-in sharpener! Even better? This set is super stylish. “I’m leaving them out on my counter because the knife block looks so sleek,” says product tester Caroline Lubinsky. “They did a nice job constructing a set that doesn’t create an eyesore in the kitchen.”

Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee

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Sale price: $13.86

Need a pick-me-up to get through the hustle and bustle of the holiday season? Try mushroom coffee. Registered dietitian Nancy Snyder tried nine brands and crowned Four Sigmatic the best overall. Grab a bag of the “Achieve” blend to try for just under $14.

Dyson V11

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Sale price: $399.99

I used the Dyson V11 every day for over five years. While it did finally bite the dust (AKA the roller bar stopped spinning), it was my ultimate cleaning companion for dry spills, cobwebs and life’s messes. I loved the array of attachments, exceptional suction power and quality battery life. While the V11 is an older Dyson model, it’s still worth the splurge—especially when on sale for just under $400.

The post Last Chance to Save: The Best Amazon Prime Day Deals on Products We Personally Tested appeared first on Taste of Home.

Sale price: $59.99

Named one of the best Keurigs you can buy, the Keurig K-Express is a slim, no-frills option for getting your morning caffeine fix. Our testers loved that the removable base makes it easy to fit a tumbler underneath for on-the-go Joe. Available for 45% off, this is one Prime Day deal you won’t want to miss.

Air Doctor Air Purifier

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Sale price: $419.25

Save 25% on the AirDoctor air purifier and enjoy a kitchen free from cooking odors. It offers specialized VOC filters, which catch particles even smaller than those trapped by HEPA filters. There’s also a built-in sensor, allowing you to see your air quality improve in real-time.

Bissell PowerClean

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Sale price: $109.99

The Bissell PowerClean cordless stick vacuum is a great choice for kitchen-related messes. This self-standing vacuum doesn’t need a dock, so it can wait conveniently in the corner for the next dry mess. Bright headlights ensure it eliminates each speck of dirt, and a HEPA filter traps allergens safely inside.

Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer

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Sale price: $47 

Those who dream of restaurant-style French fries and homemade doughnuts can’t go wrong with this Hamilton Beach electric deep fryer, on sale for 32% off. It offers a cool-touch exterior to prevent burns, plus an adjustable temperature dial and a handy viewing window built into the lid.

KitchenAid Dual Platform Scale

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Sale price: $29.99

Bakers and cooks can weigh two ingredients at once with the help of this dual scale from KitchenAid. A three-minute auto shutoff feature also ensures that none of the three AAA batteries drain prematurely.

Probiotic Yogurt Maker

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Sale price: $57.56

Take breakfast to the next level with this probiotic yogurt maker. Equipped with two one-quart containers for large batches, it’s the perfect investment for smoothie lovers and parfait eaters.

Ninja SLUSHi

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Sale price: $299

Margaritas, frappes and slushies, oh, my! The Ninja SLUSHi prepares up to 88 ounces of your favorite frozen drinks. Available in black, margarita green and striking orange mango, this countertop appliance is a great addition to any host’s bar cart.

Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker

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Sale price: $26.55

Whip up breakfast sandwiches that put fast food to shame with the ultimate breakfast sandwich maker. Each circular tier cooks a different ingredient, so it’s ideal for multi-layered sandwiches. It even makes egg rings that fit right onto an English muffin!

Instant Pot Vortex Plus Mini Air Fryer

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Sale price: $59.99

Those hunting for an air fryer with a small footprint can’t beat the four-quart Instant Pot Vortex Plus. This kitchen powerhouse crisps, broils, roasts, dehydrates, bakes and reheats using a series of easy presets. Plus, purchasing this appliance at 50% off still gets you access to the Instant Pot app, which includes over 100 bespoke recipes!

Cuisinart Food Processor

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Sale price: $212.79

This Cuisinart food processor is handy to have on hand for all sorts of kitchen tasks. Whip up peanut butter, chop nuts for banana bread or use it to make easy one-bowl salsa. It even kneads dough! Snag one today and save a generous 33%, putting the price of this appliance under $250.

Hawaiian Shaved Ice Machine

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Sale price: $33.95

Snow cones might have a reputation for being a summer treat, but ask a kid and they’ll tell you that they’re tasty anytime! A Hawaiian shaved ice machine makes such a fun holiday gift for kids, and it’s currently available at a savings of of 43%.

Nostalgia Popcorn Maker

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Sale price: $189.99

Speaking of fun holiday gifts, this freestanding Nostalgia popcorn maker is such a level up from boring microwave bags. It’s also on sale for a whopping 30% off. Nothing makes a Halloween monster movie night more fun than a real popcorn maker, just like the theaters!

Countertop Ice Machine

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Sale price: $69.99

Those who haven’t had the pleasure of on-demand ice, now is your time! Score this countertop ice machine at a savings of nearly $40. It’s self-cleaning, comes in tons of colors that coordinate with any kitchen and produces up to 26 pounds of ice per day. It also comes with its own scoop and scoop holder. Cheers!

Ninja Indoor Grill

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Sale price: $189.99

Like anyone who loves a good barbecue, I’ll try and enjoy my outdoor grill as long as I can into the fall. That said, eventually snowy weather puts a tamp on outdoor meats. But who says the smokey suppers need to stop? This Ninja indoor grill takes the deliciousness of the barbecue right to your counter top—no charcoal required!

Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker

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Sale price: $54.95

Take this Hamilton Beach slow cooker along with you to your next potluck or holiday dinner. With a lid lock, temperature probe and dishwasher-safe parts, it really takes “set it and forget it” to another level. And, it’s on sale for under $60!

TOSHIBA 6-in-1 Inverter Oven

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Sale price: $246.99

Why have an air fryer and a microwave, when you can combine both with this Toshiba countertop oven? As a six-in-one cooker, it’s capable of air frying, broiling, convection cooking, combi cooking and defrosting. As a bonus, you can turn off the sound for a nice, silent kitchen.

FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer

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Sale price: $159.99

Say goodbye to dried-out leftovers and freezer burn. A Foodsaver vacuum sealer seals and saves the flavor of almost any food, from beef to berries. You can even use it to sous vide and marinate meats! Snag one on sale and save a generous $75.

Iced Tea and Coffee Brewing System

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Sale price: $28.49

Infuse and enjoy almost any kind of hot or cold beverage with this countertop brewing system. It’s capable of iced drinks like lemonade, cold brew and iced tea, plus hot bevvies like herbal teas or even hot water for ramen. A strength selector and infuser chamber round out this handy kettle alternative, and it’s available at a savings of 37% during Amazon Prime Day!

Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven

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Sale price: $199.99

An air fryer toaster oven is a hot holiday essential. After all, most folks need all the oven space they can get. We love this Ninja countertop oven for its extra-large footprint—it fits up to a 12-pound turkey! On sale for just shy of $200, you’ll save a whopping $150.

KitchenAid Go Cordless Hand Mixer

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Sale price: $89.99

I’ve been using the KitchenAid Go cordless system in my home kitchen for over two years, and it’s a game-changer. Not having to futz with outlets or cords while whipping up a batch of cookies or mashing potatoes makes meal prep so much easier. Right now, you can pick up a KitchenAid cordless hand mixer for just $89.99, which is a $50 savings.

De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Automatic Espresso and Coffee Machine

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Sale price: $516.99

Looking to splurge on an automatic espresso maker? Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to score significant savings on these costly (but life-changing!) appliances. The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo is available for 31% off, saving you a cool $233. This machine makes five classic espresso drinks with the touch of a button and offers 13 grinder settings for the ideal extraction.

Hamilton Beach Electric Tea Kettle

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Sale price: $19.44

Tea and hot cocoa season is upon us. Whip up your favorite warming drink with ease, thanks to this handy Hamilton Beach electric tea kettle. Marked down to just under $20, this mini machine heats up to 1.7 liters of water in mere minutes.

Vitamix Propel Series 750 Blender

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Sale price: $369.95

If you’ve had your eye on a fancy blender, don’t skip over this hot Vitamix deal. The Propel 750 blender is marked down by over $250! Look forward to a season of effortlessly blended hot soups, feel-good smoothies, mixed drinks and more.

Nuwave Induction Cooktop

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Sale price: $99.94

Skip the mental gymnastics this Thanksgiving of prepping multiple side dishes at the exact same time on your limited cooktop. Instead, add this portable Nuwave induction burner to your arsenal for extra space. It reaches temperatures of 575 degrees Fahrenheit, and it even comes with a built-in thermometer. Pick one up for just under $100 and save nearly 40%.

SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker Bundle

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Sale price: $79.99

If you have a pricey sparkling water habit, this SodaStream bundle will quickly pay for itself. On sale for just under $80, this set includes a Terra sparkling water maker, two CO2 cylinders, three carbonating bottles and two Bubly flavor drops.

CUCKOO Rice Cooker

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Sale price: $79.97

This CUCKOO rice cooker makes it easy to prep grains, baby food, veggies and so much more. Plus, it’s compact, stylish and on sale for 38% off during Amazon Prime Day. Order one for just under $80.

Cuisinart Bread Maker

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Sale price: $189.94

‘Tis the season for baking. And this highly reviewed Cuisinart bread maker is your secret weapon for making fresh, wholesome loaves—even on busy days. It’s loaded with 16 menu programs and three size options so you can customize the perfect snack for your family. Plus, it mixes, proofs and bakes all in the same vessel. Save $70 when you order on Prime Day.

Presto Stuffed Waffle Maker

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Sale price: $34.99

Waffles are great. But stuffed waffles loaded with delicious fillings?! Even better. Treat yourself to this Presto stuffed waffle maker on sale for just $34.99. You’ll have so much fun dreaming up sweet and savory concoctions.

DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker

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Sale price: $29.39

If you don’t want to splurge on the Ninja Creami or GreenPan Frost—but you still want to savor homemade ice cream—give the DASH My Mug maker a try. On sale for just under $30, this pint-sized appliance churns out homemade soft-serve in just 25 minutes.

The post Last Chance to Save: The Best Amazon Prime Day Deals on Small Kitchen Appliances appeared first on Taste of Home.

Sale price: $10.99

Maintaining a Keurig can seem daunting, especially without the right supplies. That’s why we love this all-in-one brewer maintenance kit, which includes rinse pods, descaling solution and water filter cartridge refills. If you’re a Keurig owner, now is the time to stock up. Score this set for just over $10 (that’s 50% off!) thanks to Prime Day deals.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

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Sale price: $27 

This is NOT a drill: Select colors of the coveted Stanley Quencher are 40% off for Prime Day! We tried the Quencher and love how long it keeps drinks cool, thanks to its double-wall vacuum insulation.

Note: Discounts depend on color and size.

Water Absorbing Stone Tray

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Sale price: $12.79

Say goodbye to soggy sinks and soap scum! This water absorbing stone tray holds hand soap, dish brushes and other sink necessities. In 60 seconds, the diatomaceous earth tray absorbs any moisture to ensure there’s no gross puddles dotting the countertop.

Air Fryer Paper Liners

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Sale price: $19.90

These paper air fryer liners make cleaning air fryers a piece of cake. Nonstick and grease-proof, they’re the perfect hack for easy, mess-free dinners. Pick up a pack of 400 and save $10!

Warming Mat

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Sale price: $47.19

While hosting, especially for holidays, the hardest part is timing all the dishes so they’re done at the same time. With this silicone warming mat, there’s a little less pressure on the head chef. It keeps side dishes and mains piping hot with nine temperature settings. Plus, it easily rolls up for storage. Snag it on sale and save a staggering 40%.

Indoor Herb Garden Planter

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