Ah, winter. The season of rosy cheeks, frosty mornings, and more layers than an onion. While it’s tempting to cocoon under a blanket until spring, winter has so much more to offer. It’s a time for embracing snowy adventures, cozy evenings, and creative projects that warm both your hands and your heart. Let’s dive into how to make the most of winter with a mix of outdoor fun, DIY crafts, and delicious recipes that will keep you smiling through the cold.
Outdoor Adventures That Warm the Soul
There’s a unique kind of magic that only winter brings—snow-covered landscapes, crisp air, and the crunch of boots on icy trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a pair of snowshoes and hit a local trail. It’s like hiking but with an extra dose of workout (and occasionally face-planting in the snow, if you’re anything like me). Not into snowshoes? Sledding is the ultimate low-tech, high-thrill activity. Find a hill, grab anything that slides, and let gravity do its thing. Don’t forget finding all of those magical Holiday light displays that are sure to warm your spirit!
When your fingers are frozen and you’re ready to retreat indoors, bring a bit of that outdoor charm with you. Try making ice lanterns—fill a sturdy bowl with water, drop in cranberries and sprigs of greenery, and let it freeze overnight. Pop it out, light a candle inside, and voila: a whimsical winter decoration. Winter is the ultimate excuse to unleash your inner crafter. Knitting a scarf may be the classic choice, but if yarn isn’t your jam, try your hand at homemade candles. Melt some soy wax (you can find it online or at craft stores), add a few drops of essential oil (peppermint for a festive touch), and pour it into a mason jar with a wick. Tie a ribbon around it, and you’ve got the perfect handmade gift—or just a reason to light candles every night.
For a more kid-friendly project, whip up some snowflake window clings. Mix 1/4 cup of glue with a teaspoon of dish soap, pipe out snowflake shapes on wax paper, and let them dry. They peel off like magic and turn any window into a winter wonderland.
Winter-Themed DIY Crafts with Instructions
1. DIY Ice Lanterns
Bring the magic of winter indoors with these simple yet enchanting ice lanterns. Perfect for creating a whimsical glow on your porch or in your garden.
You’ll Need:
- Large and small containers (like a mixing bowl and a cup)
- Water
- Cranberries, pine sprigs, or small pinecones for decoration
- Tea light or LED candle
Instructions:
- Fill the larger container about 3/4 full with water. Place the smaller container inside, weighing it down with stones to keep it in place.
- Add cranberries, pine sprigs, or small pinecones between the two containers for decoration.
- Freeze overnight.
- Once frozen, remove the smaller container by running warm water over it. Repeat for the larger container to release the lantern.
- Place a tea light or LED candle inside and enjoy your glowing winter wonder!
2. No-Sew Fleece Blanket
Perfect for cozying up by the fire, this craft is quick, fun, and doesn’t require a single stitch!
You’ll Need:
- Two pieces of fleece fabric (each 2 yards, in complementary colors or patterns)
- Scissors
Instructions:
- Lay the two fleece pieces on top of each other, aligning the edges.
- Cut a 4-inch square from each corner to make room for tying.
- Cut 4-inch-long, 1-inch-wide strips along all edges.
- Tie the top and bottom fabric strips together in double knots.
- Repeat until all edges are tied, and you have a soft, warm blanket ready for snuggling.
3. DIY Peppermint Bath Salts
Relax and unwind with these festive and soothing bath salts. They make perfect holiday gifts too!
You’ll Need:
- 2 cups Epsom salts
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- Optional: Red food coloring
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix Epsom salts and baking soda.
- Add peppermint essential oil and mix well.
- For a festive look, divide the mixture in half and add red food coloring to one half.
- Layer the white and red salts in a mason jar for a candy cane effect.
- Seal the jar, tie it with a ribbon, and gift it—or save it for your next relaxing soak!
4. Snowflake Window Clings
Add a touch of winter magic to your windows with these easy-to-make reusable snowflake clings.
You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup white school glue
- 1 teaspoon dish soap
- Glitter (optional)
- Wax paper
Instructions:
- Mix the glue and dish soap in a small bowl.
- Lay out a sheet of wax paper on a flat surface.
- Use a piping bag or squeeze bottle to draw snowflake designs on the wax paper. (Sprinkle glitter on top if desired!)
- Let the designs dry completely (about 24 hours).
- Carefully peel them off and stick them to your windows for a frosty, festive look.
5. DIY Pinecone Fire Starters
These fire starters are not only functional but also beautiful and eco-friendly, making them a great gift or addition to your own fireplace rituals.
You’ll Need:
- Large pinecones
- Soy wax or paraffin wax
- Wick pieces or cotton string
- Essential oils (like cinnamon or vanilla)
- Parchment paper
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out the pinecones.
- Melt the wax in a double boiler and stir in a few drops of essential oil.
- Dip each pinecone into the melted wax, coating it halfway.
- Place the waxed pinecones on the parchment paper to cool.
- Once hardened, wrap them in festive paper or place them in a decorative basket. Use them to start cozy fires all winter long.
6. DIY Frosted Mason Jar Lanterns
These frosted jars are perfect for adding a soft wintery glow to any room.
You’ll Need:
- Mason jars
- Mod Podge or white school glue
- Epsom salts
- Small paintbrush
- Tea lights or LED candles
Instructions:
- Paint the outside of the mason jar with a thin layer of Mod Podge or glue.
- Roll the jar in Epsom salts to coat it evenly, creating a frosted effect.
- Let it dry completely (about 1–2 hours).
- Place a tea light or LED candle inside and watch it light up with a snowy glow.
7. Rustic Twig Star Ornaments
Bring a bit of the outdoors inside with these charming twig stars.
You’ll Need:
- Twigs or small branches (collected from outside)
- Hot glue gun
- Twine or ribbon
Instructions:
- Cut your twigs into equal lengths, depending on the size of star you’d like.
- Arrange them into a star shape, gluing the points where the twigs meet.
- Wrap the intersections with twine or ribbon for extra stability and a rustic look.
- Hang them on your tree or around the house for a natural, festive decoration.
Comfort Food to Warm the Heart
Let’s face it: winter is made for carbs. And what better way to spend a snowy afternoon than baking a fresh loaf of bread? If you’ve never tried it, don’t worry—I’ve got an easy recipe for you. Mix 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of yeast, and 1.5 cups of warm water. Let it rise for 2 hours, shape it into a ball, and bake it at 450°F for 30 minutes. The smell alone is worth the effort, and the taste? Even better.
Pair your bread with a steaming bowl of potato leek soup. Sauté a sliced leek and two diced potatoes in butter, add 3 cups of chicken broth, and simmer until tender. Blend it up, add a splash of cream, and you’ve got a bowl of warmth that’s hard to beat. For dessert, try a classic hot chocolate but make it gourmet. Heat milk, whisk in cocoa powder, a bit of sugar, and a splash of vanilla, then top it with whipped cream and crushed candy canes. It’s indulgence in a mug.
Delicious Holiday Recipes to Try This Season
Here’s a collection of festive holiday recipes to fill your kitchen with cheer and your table with joy:
1. Spiced Hot Chocolate
Warm, rich, and just a little spicy, this hot chocolate is perfect for cozy evenings by the fire.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat milk and cream over medium heat until warm.
- Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne until fully dissolved.
- Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
2. Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized treats are the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and creamy.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 8 ounces brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into 12 squares.
- Press each square into the cups of a mini muffin tin.
- Add a cube of brie to each, followed by a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown. Garnish with a small sprig of rosemary.
3. Peppermint Bark
This classic holiday treat is as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions:
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Spread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let the chocolate set slightly, then melt the white chocolate chips in the same way. Stir in peppermint extract and pour over the semi-sweet layer.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top and gently press them in. Let set in the fridge for 1-2 hours, then break into pieces.
4. Maple Glazed Roasted Vegetables
This side dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups carrots (cut into sticks)
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts (halved)
- 2 cups sweet potatoes (cubed)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
5. Gingerbread Cookies
No holiday is complete without these spiced, chewy cookies.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- Royal icing for decorating
Instructions:
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg, mixing until combined. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
- Chill dough for 1 hour. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Cool and decorate with royal icing.
6. Holiday Eggnog
Creamy, spiced, and rich, eggnog is a holiday classic.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup rum or bourbon (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and nutmeg over medium heat. Heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. Slowly add the warm milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly.
- Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and rum or bourbon, if using. Chill and serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
7. Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls
Soft, gooey, and packed with cinnamon, these rolls are the ultimate holiday breakfast.
Ingredients:
- Dough: 3 1/4 cups flour, 2 teaspoons yeast, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup warm milk, 3 tablespoons butter, 1 egg
- Filling: 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cinnamon, 1/4 cup melted butter
- Icing: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions:
- Combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add warm milk, butter, and egg, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with melted butter, and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll tightly and cut into 12 pieces.
- Place rolls in a greased pan, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Drizzle with icing and serve warm.
Cozy Up by the Fire (or Fake It)
Nothing beats curling up by a fire on a cold winter night, where the warmth and crackle create a sense of calm and comfort that’s almost impossible to match. But if you’re one of the many without a fireplace, don’t despair—there are plenty of ways to fake that cozy glow and create a space that’s just as inviting. Start with candles. Gather a collection of them in varying heights and styles—pillars, tea lights, or jar candles—and place them on a tray or mantle. The flickering flames mimic the feel of a fire, and if you choose wintery scents like pine, vanilla, or cinnamon, you’ll add another layer of warmth to the ambiance.
For extra charm, weave fairy lights into the mix. Drape them around the candles, along a bookshelf, or across the back of a couch. Their soft glow, combined with the candlelight, will transform your room into a winter wonderland. If you want to go all out, add a faux fur rug or a few plush pillows to create a cozy nook perfect for curling up with a good book or your favorite holiday movie.
And what’s a cozy evening without a blanket to snuggle under? For a personal touch, make your own no-sew fleece blanket. It’s easy, fun, and satisfying to create. Start by choosing two pieces of fleece fabric in complementary colors or patterns (think wintery plaids or snowflake prints). Lay them together, cut matching fringe along the edges—about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide—and tie the fringe pieces from both layers together in double knots. You’ll have a thick, warm, and entirely unique blanket to keep you toasty through the coldest nights.
Once your cozy space is set, it’s time to grab a steaming mug of hot chocolate (maybe with marshmallows piled high) and settle in for an evening of pure winter bliss. Whether you’re watching the snow fall outside or simply enjoying the flicker of your candles, you’ll be amazed at how these small touches can transform your home into a haven of warmth and relaxation.
Winter isn’t just about surviving the cold—it’s about celebrating the unique charm it brings. From outdoor adventures to DIY crafts and recipes that warm you from the inside out, there’s so much to love about this season. So go ahead, embrace the frost, cozy up by the fire, and let winter work its magic on you.
BrambleBelle
