Homemade Holiday Candies

 The holidays are near and that means it is time to start thinking about gifts to buy and treats to make. This year why not save a little money and give a gift from the heart with these homemade holiday candy recipes? These are decadent, delicious and easy to recreate at home in your own kitchen. Make a few varieties and package them in a pretty container for a great gift.

This collection has something wonderful for everyone! From cheesecake balls that are dreamy to simple dipped marshmallows that always delight and even a candy for the coffee lovers. 

While you are here you can't forget to visit some of my favorite bark recipes.

Everyone loves this celebration bark.  Fruity Pebbles bark is a perfect no bake candy option for cereal lovers.

Cheesecake Balls by Rich and Delish

These cheesecake balls are so creamy and dreamy! You are sure to love this recipe for homemade candy.

Dark Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows by Saporito Kitchen

This recipe is simple and delicious! Let the kids help with this one.

Homemade Snickers by The Short Order Cook

This homemade snickers bar recipe is perfect to make and freeze for later. Make these ahead of time for a homemade gift from the heart.

Honey Lollipops by The Monday Box

Homemade honey lollipops are perfect for sucking or stirring tea with! These would be great sticking stuffers.

Saltine Toffee by Spend with Pennies

Toffee made with saltines is a perfect treat to make and share.

Strawberry Hard Candy by In the Kitch

These hard candies are perfect for holidays. They are so fruity and flavorful!

Disneyland Copycat Churro Toffee  by In Fine Taste

No need to plan a trip to Disney to get your churro toffee fix. This is a perfect at home dupe!

Homemade Torrone Italian Nut Nougat by xoxo Bella

This homemade Italian candy would be so nice to share with your friends and neighbors this year.

Cookie Dough Truffles by Fantabulosity

These truffles are just the thing to serve to anyone who loves cookie dough flavor!

Rocky Road by Flavor the Moments

Homemade rocky road has never been easier than it is with this tasty recipe!

Peanut Butter Balls by Bitz n Giggles

If you love peanut butter flavor then you will want to make these delicious little treats this year!

Homemade Payday Bars by Sweet Peas Kitchen

This recipe is a perfect copycat for homemade, fresh payday candy bars!

Angel Candy by DIY and Fun

You are sure to love the layers of this candy! It is so tasty!

Turtles by The Cagle Diaries

Simple and delicious are always a good idea! This recipe for homemade turtles is sure to be a favorite!

Vegan Twix by Spabettie

If you are a fan of twix bars, you will want to make these for a sweet, homemade holiday candy to share.

Dalgona Coffee Candy by Corrie Cooks

Coffee fans would love to get a tub of these instant pot candies for the holidays!

Find more homemade candy recipes here

Cotton Candy Ice Cream Cones

Boozy Butter Creams

Rustic Recipes for Autumn

The weather is starting to cool down, and the leaves are changing color. It's the perfect time to start thinking about fall cooking. Rustic recipes are all about using simple, seasonal ingredients to create hearty, flavorful dishes. They're the perfect way to warm up on a cold day and celebrate the bounty of the fall harvest. I have gathered some of my favorites to share with you. From stews, to galettes, there is something on this list for everyone. Be sure to click thru the links to visit the recipes at their original source.

Photo Credit: Various Sources.

Fresh Tomato Galette by If You Give a Blonde a Kitchen

Rustic Lamb Stew by Spend with Pennies

Mum’s Beef Stew by Kelly Neil

Rich and Rustic Mashed Potatoes by Sense and Edibility

Irish Vegetable Soup  by Cook at Home Mom

Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet by Bitz n Giggles

Italian Minestrone Soup by Cucciharella 

Creamy Stewed Potatoes  by Broke Bank Vegan

Authentic Coq Au Vin with Rooster by The Peasants Daughter

French Hunter Chicken by 24 Bite

Oxtail Ragu by The Pasta Project

Beef Roast by Sungrown Kitchen

Meat Pie by The Gunny Sack

Dutch Oven Pot Roast by The Healthy Epicurean

Cacio e Pepe by Centsless Meals

If you are planning to make some rustic family style food this fall here are some tips:

Here are some tips for making great rustic food: Use simple, fresh ingredients. Rustic food is all about using the best ingredients you can find. This means using fresh, seasonal produce, and high-quality meats and cheeses.

You can stock up on ingredients and save cash by checking out these BJ’s Wholesale Membership Deals. After grabbing your groceries at BJ's you will be ready to hop into the kitchen to start making the best rustic food.

Don't be afraid to get creative. Rustic food is all about letting your personality shine through. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

Don't overcook your food. Rustic food should be cooked until it's just tender, but still has a bit of a bite to it. Overcooked food will be dry and bland.

Let your food rest before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop.

Use rustic cooking methods. Rustic food is often cooked using traditional methods, such as roasting, grilling, and braising. These methods help to preserve the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Present your food simply. Rustic food doesn't need a lot of fussy presentation. A simple, rustic platter is all you need to showcase your delicious food.

Which of these recipes do you think your family would most enjoy? I want to make the Irish veggie soup asap.

While you are here you might also like to check out some of my favorite recipes.

3 Ingredient Fool Proof Biscuits

Butter Garlic Glazed Carrots

Book Review: My Unfurling by Lisa May Bennett

 I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for a review.

My Unfurling is a touching and honest memoir about one woman's journey to sobriety and self-discovery. In her book, Lisa May Bennett shares her struggles with binge drinking, anxiety, and self-doubt, and how she overcame them to find her true purpose in life.

Bennett's writing is engaging and relatable, and she doesn't shy away from the difficult aspects of her story. She openly discusses her childhood experiences, her complicated relationship with her mother, and the ways in which her drinking habit impacted her life and relationships.

What makes My Unfurling so special is Bennett's ability to find humor and hope even in the darkest of times. She shares her story with warmth, wit, and compassion, and her insights will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction, self-worth, or finding their place in the world.

One of the things I appreciate most about Bennett's book is her honesty. She doesn't sugarcoat her struggles or pretend to have all the answers. Instead, she shares her story with authenticity and vulnerability, which makes it all the more relatable and inspiring.

Another thing I loved about My Unfurling is Bennett's message of hope. She shows that it is possible to overcome addiction and achieve your dreams, no matter how difficult your journey may be. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-love, and community support.

If you are struggling with addiction, self-doubt, or finding your place in the world, I highly recommend reading My Unfurling. It is a powerful and inspiring memoir that will leave you feeling hopeful and motivated to make a change in your life.

Overall rating: 5/5 stars

Recommended for: anyone who has ever struggled with addiction, self-worth, or finding their place in the world

Festive Cranberry Cocktail Recipes

 The holiday season is near, and if you are gathering with friends to exchange gifts, or hosting a party, you are going to want to pin this list of festive cranberry cocktails for later. This list has some of the best options to help you ring in the holidays in style.

If you have been visiting me for a while, you know I love a good cocktail. This year I would love to include more cranberries into my happy hour, so I started visiting with some of my favorite bloggers to find the best recipes. I know you will find a few items you love on this list.

Cranberry Sage Cocktail by Salted Plains

Perfect Cranberry Cosmo by xoxo Bella

Cranberry Sangria by Flavor the Moments

Blushin Russian by The Good Hearted Woman

Frozen Cranberry Mimosa by Stephanie’s Way

Winter White Cosmos by Aleka’s Get Together

Cranberry Pear Mimosas by Entirely Elizabeth

Sorcerer's Stone Cocktail by Cooking with Curls

Cranberry Orange Margarita by Emily Fabulous

Cranberry Orange Daiquiris by Small Town Woman

Cranberry Moscow Mules by Our Crafty Cocktails

Mezcal Cranberry Cocktails by Gastronom Blog

Sparkling Cranberry Champagne Cocktails by Homebody Eats

Blackberry Cranberry Moscow Mules by The Forked Spoon

Cranberry Margaritas by A Splash of Taste

Don't these drinks sound perfect for the holiday season? Which would you like to make first? Don't forget to click over to view the full recipes and save them to your cocktail board.

While you are here you can find some of my favorite drink recipes here:

Wild Blueberry Gin Fizzers

Boozy Freezer Pops

Cherry Orange Soda Syrup

Top 9 Overseas Destinations for Real Estate Investments

 In today's globalized economy, real estate investments have transcended geographical boundaries, offering lucrative opportunities for investors seeking profitable ventures abroad. As the world becomes more interconnected, savvy investors are exploring overseas destinations that promise not only financial growth but also a diverse range of lifestyle benefits. In this article, we will delve into the top nine overseas destinations that have emerged as hotspots for real estate investments.

 

1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai, with its iconic skyline and futuristic architecture, has become synonymous with luxury living and high-end real estate. The city's strategic location as a global business hub, coupled with its progressive policies, has attracted investors from across the globe. From opulent penthouses in the renowned Burj Khalifa to waterfront villas on Palm Jumeirah, Dubai's real estate market offers a range of options catering to both high-end buyers and savvy investors seeking lucrative rental yields.

 

2. Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona, the enchanting capital of Catalonia, boasts a rich cultural heritage, renowned architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene. The city's real estate market reflects its diverse charm, from historic apartments in the Barri Gòtic to contemporary lofts in El Poblenou. Barcelona's appeal lies not only in its artistic allure but also in its robust tech industry, making it a magnet for young professionals and entrepreneurs. Investors can explore opportunities in both residential and commercial sectors, capitalizing on the city's dynamic growth.

 

3. Penang, Malaysia: Penang, known as the "Pearl of the Orient," is a gem in Malaysia's real estate landscape. With its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and strategic location, Penang has become a sought-after destination for real estate investors. The Queens Waterfront, a prominent development project in Penang and an ideal real estate investment has transformed the city's skyline.

This integrated waterfront development includes luxury residences, commercial spaces, and recreational amenities, offering investors a unique opportunity to be a part of Penang's evolving landscape. Penang's charm lies not only in its real estate potential but also in its cultural diversity, making it an appealing choice for investors seeking both financial growth and a vibrant, multicultural lifestyle.

 

4. Bali, Indonesia: Bali, the tropical paradise of Indonesia, entices investors with its serene beaches, lush jungles, and tranquil way of life. The island's real estate market offers a spectrum of options, from secluded villas in Ubud to beachfront resorts in Seminyak. Bali's thriving tourism industry ensures a consistent demand for vacation rentals, making it an attractive choice for investors seeking both relaxation and profitable returns. The island's unique culture and natural beauty add an extra dimension to the investment, promising not just financial gains but also enriching experiences.

 

5. Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon, perched on the edge of Europe, exudes old-world charm and modern vitality. The city's real estate market presents a mix of historic apartments in Alfama, trendy lofts in LX Factory, and upscale properties along the Tagus River. Portugal's Golden Visa program, offering residency to property investors, has amplified Lisbon's appeal among international buyers. The city's vibrant arts scene, excellent cuisine, and favorable climate make it an enticing destination for investors looking for a European foothold and a high quality of life.

 

6. Phuket, Thailand: Phuket, Thailand's largest island, stands as a tropical paradise boasting stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a thriving tourism industry that attracts visitors from across the globe. The island's real estate market is as diverse as its natural beauty, featuring a plethora of options ranging from opulent beachfront villas in Kamala to modern upscale condos in the bustling area of Patong. 

Phuket's enduring popularity as a tourist hotspot ensures a consistent and robust demand for vacation rentals and hospitality ventures, offering investors a lucrative opportunity to capitalize on the island's tropical allure. Investors can capitalize on the island's tropical allure, investing in properties that offer both holidaymakers and long-term residents a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty.

7. Panama City, Panama: Panama City, where modern skyscrapers meet the Pacific coastline, has emerged as a hub for international trade and finance. The city's real estate market offers diverse opportunities, from commercial spaces in the bustling financial district to luxurious condos overlooking the ocean. Panama's strategic location, business-friendly policies, and tax advantages make it an attractive destination for global investors seeking stable returns and economic growth. Entrepreneurs and professionals find Panama City alluring, contributing to the city's thriving real estate sector.

 

8. Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town, nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The city's real estate market ranges from historic homes in Constantia to contemporary apartments on the V&A Waterfront. Cape Town's status as a major tourism destination, coupled with its burgeoning tech industry and winemaking heritage, ensures a consistent demand for upscale properties. Investors can tap into the city's diverse offerings, from vineyard estates to urban penthouses, promising not only financial returns but also a lifestyle that harmoniously balances luxury and natural splendor.

9. Tuscany, Italy:

Tuscany, the picturesque region in central Italy, is renowned for its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic charm. The region's real estate market offers a unique blend of rustic farmhouses, elegant villas, and historic estates. Tuscany's reputation for producing world-class wines and its rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for investors seeking a luxurious retreat and a profitable venture. The allure of living amidst vineyards and olive groves, coupled with the region's culinary delights and artistic legacy, creates a captivating investment opportunity. Investors can indulge in the Tuscan lifestyle, enjoying the serene countryside while exploring opportunities in the region's thriving real estate market. 

 

Conclusion

Investing in overseas real estate can be a rewarding and strategic financial move, providing investors with a chance to capitalize on global market trends and economic growth. The top nine destinations highlighted in this article – each offering unique advantages, whether it's the booming real estate market in Dubai, the cultural charm of Barcelona, or the tropical allure of Bali – showcase the diverse opportunities available to discerning investors. As with any investment, thorough research, local market understanding, and expert guidance are crucial in navigating the complexities of international real estate markets.