The Linzer Cookie from Birdhouse Bakery is Everything We Love About the Holidays

There’s so much to love about the art of baking, and one of my favorite things is discovering recipes that fully reflect the person behind them. Anyone can bake a good cookie recipe, but it’s pure magic when a recipe can transport you straight into someone’s kitchen. You’re right there beside them walking you through each step—sharing secret tips and swapping stories along the way. And that’s exactly how I felt when Elizabeth Ho from Birdhouse Bakeshop shared this holiday linzer cookie recipe.

In fact, I immediately headed straight into the kitchen to make a batch for myself. Elizabeth’s approach to sweets and desserts is as beautiful as it is approachable, and the celebration of seasonal ingredients in their greatest form is an art that Elizabeth excels at.

We’re big holiday cookie box fans over here, and I’m stoked to add Elizabeth’s linzer cookie recipe to my gifting exchange this year. Linzer cookies, especially for the holiday season, feel extra special. I shared this chocolate orange version last year. And while the idea of sandwich cookies can be intimidating, once you get in the groove, you’ll impress everyone with the fanciful treat that looks like you’ve spent days baking.

Ahead, Elizabeth shares her recipe with us and her approach to baking with the beauty of the seasons. Plus, get ready for her delicious flavor variations for these linzers, so there’s something for everyone on your list.

Elizabeth Ho

Elizabeth Ho

Owner of Birdhouse Bakeshop, Liz’s work is rooted in the beauty that comes from quality and simplicity. Always flourished with seasonal blooms, her bakes are an outpouring of love, memory, and sharing of her Chinese Malaysian heritage. In her little home kitchen, Liz spends her days creating inventive cakes, alongside a small everchanging menu of pastries, for locals in Edmonton, Canada.

Winter citrus.

How would you describe your baking and food philosophy?

I think baking should be loving and emotional, but also practical. I always create in a way that feels nurturing, intimate and calming to me. Often that means focusing on simple (and nostalgic) ingredients, thoughtfully paired and prepared. I want my recipes to tie into something personal—whether that’s memory, family tradition, or place. But I also think it’s important to make the most of what surrounds you. I love the ways food and pastry can bring us closer to the cycles of nature and of a season.

How did you develop this recipe?

I’m almost always very inspired by transitions—in life, in mood, amid seasons. I wanted a recipe that adapted easily to all those changes. These cookies make it very easy to embrace my current cravings, surroundings, and what catches my eye at the farmer’s market or grocer.

I thought about the filling first, and that’s really what makes this cookie. It’s a soothing shade of pastel—balanced, tangy, and allows you to use the winter citrus available to you. I like to approach recipes by looking at the ingredients in front of me and considering how they’ll intertwine, not only in taste but in color and in palate. The buttery biscuit is a classic shortbread. It takes on flavoring well and pairs nicely with any jam, curd, cream… whatever lights you up in the moment. 

What makes this recipe your go-to for holiday baking?

These are versatile and nut-free (many traditional linzer cookies contain almond). The dough can be made in advance and comes together in a pinch. Perhaps most importantly, they look stunning in a holiday cookie box!

What are your must-have kitchen tools for this recipe?

This recipe doesn’t call for any fancy equipment, but a mixer (handheld or stand) will come in handy. Have you been waiting all year to use those darling cookie cutters? This is your moment! If all you have is a glass cup, use the top as a cookie cutter. If you don’t have a small enough cutter for the center of the cookie, the back-end of a piping tip works just as well. 

Linzer cookies recipe.
Lemon curd recipe.

What standout ingredients make this recipe special? 

Winter can be a melancholy time of year—sometimes excruciatingly so if you live in a colder climate, like I do. Playing with bright and boldly-colored fruit helps! These cookies’ filling pulls from the natural abundance of winter’s produce. Citrus is easily found, and any leftover filling can be eaten on toast, pancakes, cake, ice cream, or by the spoonful. The cardamom in the cookies adds a nice warmth, but a teaspoon of coconut extract would be dreamy as well. 

I’m all about unexpected flavor pairings—or rather, weaving together simple ingredients, in a unique way.

What ingredient swaps can be made in this recipe?

For the citrus curd, use whatever is available to you. Grapefruit, blood oranges, and Satsuma mandarins are my favorite. Some flavor variations include:

Lavender & Strawberry. Replace the cardamom and orange zest with two teaspoons dried culinary lavender rubbed into the sugar before beating. Use your choice of strawberry jam, in lieu of the citrus curd.

Orange Blossom & Pistachio. Replace the cardamom with ½ teaspoon orange blossom water/essence, and a spoonful of your favorite pistachio cream, or butter (store-bought or homemade). Hazelnut works great with the orange blossom, too. 

These are such a great vessel for your favorite spices, zests, extracts, fillings. So play around with it! Apricot and anise, blueberry and black tea, coconut and dulce de leche. Follow your baking heart and intuition. These cookies do not discriminate. 

What favorite baking hacks have you learned over the years?

Thankfully this recipe is so simple, it doesn’t require any hacks. I do like to make the dough a few days in advance, to save some time the day of. A good rest in the fridge allows the flavor to develop too. Here’s a tip: almost any cookie dough will taste better after a 1-3 day rest in the fridge! 

After rolling and cutting out the dough, you can store the cut-outs in the freezer (sealed in a ziplock or airtight container, for up to a month), to be baked when you need them. A bit of time in the freezer before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape as well. 

What advice would you share with beginner bakers?

Baking is not about having all the professional equipment, a perfectly stocked pantry, or access to specialty ingredients. It’s about finding wonder and inspiration in simplicity, in your surroundings, in memories, and using that to create something nourishing.

Curiosity can be your biggest strength, and perfection is more an idea than a way of life.

For me, baking allows me to be ambitious and open to possibilities, yet humble enough to know when to let go—of an idea, of control. Maybe you didn’t find quince at the market; choose seasonal pears or apples instead. Don’t feel compelled to drive 20 minutes for orange blossom extract? Use a few teaspoons of orange zest, or use a floral that is exciting and nostalgic to you. Anything can be a starting point for a recipe.

If you show up, do your best, and don’t let imperfection or fear of failure be a deterrent, you’ll improve every time. 

What is the best part of creating recipes to share for people to bring into their own homes?

Every recipe is an extension of me—what moves me, what evokes memories of childhood, of my family’s heritage. It’s a passionate outlet, a personal labor of love, and it makes me happy knowing others can enjoy or find inspiration in it as well.

I hope people feel a sense of warmth, ease, and connection while baking one of my recipes. And I hope they feel inspired to punctuate the recipes in their own unique ways. Baking has taught me that while we can predict certain elements of the process, the outcome does not have to be perfect to be enjoyed. Embrace that! There’s a comfort and a romance to it. 

And I hope in sharing these cookies, people are reminded to cling tightly to what’s important—to cultivate love, community, and presence. 

Anything else you’d like to share?

A few things that have my love and attention right now:

Print

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Description

Easier than you think, Elizabeth Ho’s linzer cookies are endlessly adaptable to fit any of-the-moment craving. They’ll be the standout star of your cookie box.


Citrus Curd (makes just over 1 cup, enough to fill your cookies generously, with some leftover):

  • 1/3 cup (78 ml) citrus juice
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon (75 grams) granulated sugar
  • pinch of sea salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces

Cookies:

  • 2 1/4 cups (282 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks, 225 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (64 grams) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or seeds from 1 vanilla bean
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest

For the citrus curd:

  1. Bring a small pot, with a few inches of water, to a boil. In a medium sized heat-proof glass or stainless steel bowl (one that can sit atop the pot of water) whisk together the citrus juice, whole egg, egg yolks, sugar, and salt. 
  2. Keeping the pot of water at a simmer, on medium heat, place the bowl on top of the pot– like a double broiler. Using a rubber spatula, cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it is very thick– thick enough that your spatula leaves a trail through the curd. Be patient, this might take up to 25 minutes.
  3. Once thickened, remove from the bowl from the heat, and stir in the butter. Gently press a piece of plastic wrap over the top of the curd (this will prevent a layer of film from forming), and refrigerate overnight, or until fully cooled.

For the cookies:

  1. In a large bowl, beat together the butter, sugars, orange zest and vanilla (with the paddle attachment, if using a stand mixer), until light and creamy—about 3 minutes. 
  2. Add the flour, cardamom (if using), and salt. Mix on low speed, until the dough starts coming together into moist clumps.
  3. At this point, you could press the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate (or freeze) for a later day. Let it soften slightly before rolling out.
  4. I like to roll out the dough immediately after making, between two sheets of parchment paper– roll it out to ¼ inch thickness. Place the rolled out dough, on the parchment, onto a large surface (a hard placemat, cutting board, cookie sheet), and freeze for at least 20 minutes.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350 F, and line two cookie sheets with parchment. Using your cookie cutter (or the rim of a cup), cut out an even number of cookies (you should get 28-34, with a cutter that is 1.5-2 inches in diameter). Using a smaller cookie cutter, or back of a piping tip, cut a small hole from the center of half the cookie cut-outs. 
  6. Place the cut-outs on your cookie sheets, about 1-2 inches apart; they won’t spread too much. Bake for 8-11 minutes, or until golden on the bottom. Allow them to cool completely before filling. 

Assembly

  1. Dust the tops of the cooled cookies with powdered sugar. Flip over the bottom halves, add a spoonful of curd on top of each (about 2 teaspoons, or however much you desire). Place the cut-out cookies on top. Enjoy!

The filled cookies will stay fresh for a few days, in an airtight container, in the fridge. Any longer and they may start to soften.

Notes

  • You’ll want to make the citrus curd first (the night before), so it has time to set and chill. 
  • Use any citrus you love, in the curd! Grapefruit, mandarins, meyer lemons, cara cara or blood oranges oranges, or a mix of all
  • The cardamom is optional. A pinch of cinnamon, or a teaspoon of coconut extract pairs beautifully with the citrus too.

6 Gorgeous Ideas to Decorate Your Front Porch for the Holidays

Whether you’re working with a sprawling, wrap-around patio or a small stoop in front of the door, coming up with front porch Christmas decor ideas can be a challenge. After all, it’s the part of your home you present to the world—like a holiday style thesis statement. To help you nail the art of the chic, festive front porch (and hopefully save you a bit of money), we’ve gathered top-tier inspiration and expert input to guide you on your merry way.

Craving more holiday decor inspo? Take a peek inside Camille’s cozy winter holiday haven. We’re stealing all of her ideas.

6 Front Porch Christmas Decor Ideas For a Festive Exterior

When it comes to front porch Christmas decor ideas, the vibe in 2023 is less is more. And in keeping with our natural, earthy vibe here at Camille Styles, we’ll be opting for an organic and understated approach. From the designers we spoke with—Samantha Stathis-Lynch of Hoboken-based Samantha Ware Designs and Olivia Wahler of Santa Barbara-based Hearth Homes Interiors—it seems we’re all in agreement. This year, we’re all decking the halls with an aesthetic that puts natural elements front and center.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Ditch Bright Lights for More Natural Holiday Decor

For Samantha Stathis-Lynch, the 2023 festive season is all about “natural holiday decor.”

“Instead of bright lights and figurines, consider lacing your front porch or stoop rail with a mixture of pine, magnolia, and berry garlands,” Stathis-Lynch explains. “Add crushed velvet ribbons in soft sage, greens, and burnt golds for that wow factor.”

Natural christmas decor front porch ideas.

Add an Earthy Pop of Color

If you want to go beyond evergreen, consider adding a pop of color. Last year, Camille enlisted Elle Worsham, owner of Gracious Garlands, to craft something unique for her front porch. Worsham’s answer: winterberry. The bright red berry still felt organic and natural, but added a bit more visual interest for a head-turning holiday look.  

DIY scandinavian inspired holiday evergreen swag, modern cozy christmas decoration ideas,

Mix Metals and Textures

Metallic, gold, velvet, greenery, twinkle lights, lanterns… it can all be in play according to Olivia Wahler of Santa Barbara-based Hearth Homes Interiors. 

Camille Styles Holiday Decor 2023

Get Real  

’Tis the season after all. “Real garland, pinecones, and small trees add a very welcoming feel, and they smell amazing as you walk up to the front door,” says Wahler.

Camille Styles Holiday Decor 2023-Christmas tree with kraft paper presents and dried citrus-rustic gift wrapping and evergreen casa zuma holiday wreath

Achieve the Effortless Look

“For a simple and effortless front door, match your wreath with your rail by incorporating the same types of greenery, but add dried orange and lemon slices and top it off with a beautiful and floppy bow,” shares Stathis-Lynch.

“If you want to elevate it a step further, use your remaining foliage and add simple swags underneath your windows. You’ll have a show-stopping yet elegant facade where nature’s beauty shines!”

Camille Styles holiday front porch decor.

Streamline Your Scene

If you’re dealing with a larger porch or front door, like Camille, it can be difficult to make an impact.

“I’ve found that little knick knacks often get lost,” Styles notes. “But when I can streamline it to just a few elements and go really big with them, that’s what makes the most impact. It’s really about leaning into that scale.”

A Vintage Touch

Craft an old-world feel with antique accents. Inherited some glittery baubles or a stately Nutcracker? Now’s the time to let them shine.

“We love tying vintage brass bells into our wreaths or onto stair rails for a festive flair,” addes Wahler.

Less Is More

In keeping with Styles’ idea to streamline your décor, Wahler warns not to overdo it. “While it can be fun to deck the halls, you don’t want to overwhelm the space,” the designer notes.

60 Cozy and Festive Things to Do This December to Make the Most of the Holidays

December marks the rush and onslaught of a special sort of chaos. Mailboxes are overflowing, cookies are in the oven, and entire guest bedrooms are being transformed into gift wrapping stations as we speak. But with our holiday rituals to guide the season, we’ve made it our mission to prioritize what matters to us most—and to be okay with leaving the rest. If we’ve learned anything from hectic holidays past, it’s to savor the joyful little moments amidst the mayhem. And so, as we’re planning out our bucket list of things to do in December, that’s exactly the ethos guiding our way.

So ask yourself: What will make me happy this month? Maybe that’s sipping hot chocolate on the couch or watching The Holiday for the 64th time. (Personally, I’ll be doing both—December is Jude Law season, after all.) In need of inspiration? Keep scrolling for 60 things to do in December!

60 Festive Things to Do in December

The final month of the year sets us in a simultaneous state of looking forward and reflecting on all that the past months have brought. While we might associate November with gratitude, this time leading up to the holidays wraps me in awe—an awareness of all the good that exists around me and all the good I want to share with the world. My intention with this bucket list is to remind us that the holiday magic doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Instead, it’s a result of the generosity, creativity, and warmth we each share in abundance this time of year.

I’m also focused on energizing the small, silly Isabelle in me who gets giddy at the first sight of snow and crafts her heart out any chance she can get. During a season that’s packed with so many obligations, I’m actively choosing to step away from the stress and pencil in more nights that see me cozied up on the couch with my knitting, gazing intently and admiringly at my own twinkly tree.

Holiday magic doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Instead, it’s a result of the generosity, creativity, and warmth we each share in abundance this time of year.

So in the spirit of awakening that childlike part of myself, I’m ready to embrace all the gifts present in my life this month. From things to do in December with family and friends to ideas for how to pass this special time with your partner, I’ve listed out all the best ways to spend the next 31 days. I’ll catch y’all in 2024.

Things to Do at Home

1. Do a puzzle. Clear off a dedicated table and pick one with a holiday theme. I’m partial to this merry design or this Christmas-y scene. Gather the fam or take on the challenge all on your own. Is there anything cozier?

2. Watch all the best new holiday movies. And when you get through those, be sure to put on a Nancy Meyers film (or watch them all in quick succession). Nothing gets us in the holiday mood quite like a little romance—and beautiful interiors, of course.

3. Make a festive punch. A big-batch cocktail is a great idea if you’re hosting a party and want to make drinks in advance. That way, you can serve up something delicious and still have some fun yourself.

4. Wear something sparkly (or velvety, or sequin-y…). Is there anything better than getting dressed up for the holidays? These are our favorite holiday looks.

5. Host a holiday cookie swap and bake your cookie-loving heart out. Check out our guide to throwing *the best* cookie exchange and all the recipes you need to ensure you’ll be taking home delicious treats.

6. Have a holiday self-care night. During this season of constant go-go-go, it can be hard to carve out time for yourself. But we’d argue that self-care should be prioritized. Whether that looks like binge-watching movies or wrapping gifts, we’ve got all the holiday self-care ideas you need.

7. Read a holiday-themed book. While we love books of all genres throughout the year, there’s something about losing yourself in a holiday romance that just feels so perfectly cheery. I’m about to finish Meet Me Under the Mistletoe, but I’ve heard good things about all of Jenny Bayliss’ books.

8. Shop for the coziest, most Christmas-y pajamas. Bonus points if they match your friends or family’s pair.

9. Decorate your space with the best and merriest decor. From garlands to greenery to advent calendars, break out that box of decorations and go to town—don’t forget about the tree! Steal our go-to DIY holiday decorations.

10. Send holiday cards. You can make this as big or as small of a to-do as you’d like. If time is running out, a few thoughtful hand-written notes can mean the world.

11. DIY holiday gifts. It’s the thought that counts, after all. And when you make gifts that folks will treasure for years to come, even better. We’ll be making all of these handmade holiday presents.

12. Write a letter to your January 2023 self. Make a warm, cozy beverage and sit down to a sheet of blank paper. Pour your heart out to yourself at the beginning of this year. What have you learned? How have you grown? What unexpected things happened in your life?

13. Put out the advent calendar. This is one of my favorite things to do in December. I have this sweet calendar from Papier (that’s sadly sold out) and I can’t wait to open up every single gift.

14. Make monkey bread. This has been my family’s go-to for the holiday season for the past decade-plus. Steal my favorite recipe—it’s like a million mini cinnamon rolls. What’s wrong with that?

15. Listen to Christmas music. We’ve made a holiday playlist, in case you need inspiration.

Holiday decorations.

Things to Do in Your City

16. Tour your city’s lights. Is there anything better than piling in the car and going on a light-seeing drive? Or, you can opt to bundle up and go on foot. Cities often post the best areas to look at the lights—I love seeing the houses that go all out.

17. Go ice skating. You don’t have to be a pro (or even know how to stop) to enjoy this classic, never-fails-to-delight winter activity.

18. Shop small. While we love Amazon in a pinch and are guilty of taking more than a few Target trips each week, there’s something meaningful about browsing the shops in your area and sending loved ones local gifts.

19. Cozy up at a bar or coffee shop with a fireplace. It feels so quintessentially British to grab a pint, glass of mulled wine, or a coffee and cuddle up with someone you love (or even just a good book).

20. Go caroling. Many neighborhood organizations and churches coordinate caroling events during December. Sign up with your friends or family and spread the Christmas cheer!

21. Sip on seasonal drinks at your local coffee shop. I, for one, will be sampling all the chai and peppermint chocolate.

22. See a performance of The Nutcracker. Whether it’s at the high school nearby or a professional show, this makes for the ultimate festive night.

23. Visit a holiday market. A perfect place to try once-a-year festive foods and pick up thoughtful, creative gifts.

24. Have a snowball fight. If you’re lucky enough to have snow in your area, relive the golden days of your youth with an epic snowball fight. Sledding’s a great backup plan.

25. Make gifts for your neighbors. Something small and maybe even edible can help spread some seasonal joy.

26. Look at the window displays. If you live in a city, the chances are that there’s at least a few stretches of streets that decorate their windows. And you don’t even have to buy anything—just enjoy the view.

27. Sample holiday food specials. Cafés and restaurants will often have special menu items. Sample a gingerbread latte, peppermint ice cream, the list goes on…

28. Go curling. Many northern US cities are quickly learning just how fun this Canadian favorite can be. Stop by a rink and try your hand at the sport.

29. Visit a holiday-themed bar. These days, Christmas-themed bars are a dime a dozen. Wear your festive best and enjoy a candy cane martini. (You never know, you might get to see Santa!)

30. Shop at a toy store for a young relative or neighbor. Make their Christmas dreams come true—and you get to enjoy all the nostalgic decor.

Holiday decorating with friends.

Things to Do With Friends

31. Buy ugly sweaters. Goodwill, Target, and thrift stores all have solid options. Designate a day when you all hang out and wear your sweaters—bonus points if you have the confidence to sport them in public.

32. Take a picture with Santa. Hit up your local mall or check local listings to see if there’s a day when Santa will be visiting your city. Without fail, this always ends up being my favorite picture of me and my friends.

33. Bake a holiday treat with a friend over Zoom. If there’s someone you can’t see this season, be sure to connect virtually and celebrate the cozy vibes together. Linzer cookies, a chocolate cake with a seasonal twist, and a snack cake are all solid options.

34. Host a gingerbread house decorating party. And if your crew likes a little healthy competition, compete! Prizes go to the most creative, the one you’d actually want to live in, and the best overall. (Psst… Target has gingerbread Target stores for sale. Just sayin’.)

35. Contribute to the ultimate holiday playlist. Collaborate on a Spotify playlist together. Be sure to include the classics and the newer spins (who doesn’t love a little Michael Bublé?).

36. Make holiday crafts. Not sure if you’ve heard, but crafting isn’t just for kids! You can DIY wreaths, ornaments, and other décor. Cups of hot cocoa, cider, or wine seal the deal.

37. Organize a Secret Santa exchange. A White Elephant party works, too. Set a price limit and throw a party dedicated to loving on your pals.

38. Get a holiday manicure. Make a statement and break out from the expected red or green. Who’s ever said no to a little sparkle?

39. Make a nostalgic treat. Peppermint bark, puppy chow (or muddy buddies, if that’s how you roll), and slice-and-bake cookies are all fair game.

40. Make homemade gifts. We have all the ideas you need right here.

Things to Do With Your Family

41. Cut down (or buy) a tree. Venture out into the woods or pick one up at Whole Foods. I won’t lie—I went fake this year and the vibes are still just as festive.

42. Share your holiday intentions. Is this the year you finally slow down and soak up all the holiday magic? Discuss the energy you want to bring into this final month of 2022 and share with your nearest and dearest.

43. Watch family movies or look through old photo albums. There’s no better time to reflect on the past with those you love.

44. Read your favorite holiday stories together. May I suggest a few faves? The Snowman, The Polar Express, and The Snowy Day are all worth a read (and many re-reads to follow).

45. Hide an Elf on the Shelf. If you have little ones, this is a great way to get them in the holiday spirit. Learn everything you need to know about the tradition here.

46. Adopt a child or family. Many charities and volunteer organizations coordinate gift drives where you “adopt” either a child or family and purchase gifts they’ve designated on their list. This is one of my favorite ways to give back and support my community this season.

47. Hang stockings. If you already have your own, amazing! But it’s actually easier to DIY stockings than you might think. You’ll find sew many ideas here. (See what I did?)

48. Donate unused coats. Clear out your space and help members of your community keep warm. One Warm Coat is a reputable organization that helps volunteers hold coat drives all over the country.

49. Do random acts of kindness. While the world can always use some more kindness, the holidays are a great time to spread joy. Get inspired with our list of 25 random acts of kindness you can do today.

50. Play games. Change into your pajamas and gather by the tree with blankets and pillows galore. Break out your family’s favorite games and get to playing! Check out our recommendations if you’re looking for a new game.

Things to Do With Your Partner

51. Cuddle on the couch. With hot chocolate while you watch the tree twinkle in the darkness. So calm, so cozy.

52. Get dressed up for a holiday party. The time to go all out is now.

53. Make *or buy* and drink eggnog together. I can say with confidence that the classic beverage is truly disgusting any other month of the year. But in December? Delicious.

54. Reflect on your year together. What major milestones have you celebrated together this year? Where do you want the next year to take you? Reflect and look forward together.

55. Bake a festive breakfast. I love a good sweet, holiday-themed first meal of the day. Gingerbread cinnamon rolls, breakfast strata, and cranberry orange muffins all evoke the flavors of the season.

56. Build a snowman, make snow angels, etc. Anything to get you outdoors and feeling like a kid again.

57. Go dessert hopping. Visit your favorite restaurants and cafés and sample their treats. Who doesn’t love cozying up with something sweet?

58. Hit up a hiking trail. Whether you’re trudging through the snow or just taking advantage of the low-traffic trails, this is a great way to get some exercise and share a memorable experience.

59. Read your favorite passages from your favorite books to each other. Because December calls us to spend the majority of the darker days indoors, nothing beats cracking open a good book. And nothing helps you get to know someone better than learning their favorite lines. Talk about why you love the passage and what it means to you. Trust me: so romantic.

60. Volunteer at an animal shelter. You get to cuddle cute animals together while putting a little good out into the world. It’s the ultimate December date.

This post was originally published on December 1, 2019, and has since been updated.

40 Wellness Hacks to Keep You Healthy Through the Holidays

The holidays are a time of so much joy and excitement. Full stop. (Eh, not quite.) Like most things in life, this season comes with its fair share of nuance. “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”—but for many, it’s also the messiest and most stressful couple of months. And we’re lucky if we make it past New Year’s without so much as a sniffle. Needless to say, the holidays can do a number on our health. But to combat the inevitable colds and meltdowns—and offset the indulgences that we will be taking part in—we have our go-to healthy holiday hacks to weave in some wellness when it counts the most.

To be clear: if hours-long workouts and green smoothies on repeat aren’t your jam, they don’t have to be. Alongside our holiday cookie-baking marathons and multiple gatherings each week, we’ll be taking plenty of time to get quiet with ourselves and connect with the rituals that help us feel our best.

Because rather than aiming for perfection, we’ve come around to accepting that life is a journey of continuously falling in and out of balance. The latter doesn’t mean you’ve failed and being on your healthy A-game isn’t a moral success. Instead, these healthy holiday hacks are intended to help you tune back in with yourself and serve as a reminder of all that keeps you aligned during a time year when you may need them most.

Life is a journey of continuously falling in and out of balance.

40 Healthy Holiday Hacks to Support You, Body and Mind

With these ideas at the ready, it’s our hope that you can continue feeling your best this holiday. Sure, maybe you aren’t eating the “healthiest” or keeping up with your pre-November workout routine. But you’re prioritizing what’s most important this holiday season. And here’s a friendly reminder: that looks different for everyone.

Movement Holiday Habits

1. Embrace the beauty of a 10-minute workout. Platforms like Form, barre3, and Soul Sync Body all offer quick workouts. It’s an easy way to build momentum and set the foundation for a day of movement.

2. Walk with others. During a time of year full of family and friends, this is one of our favorite healthy holiday hacks. Recruit someone to get a little fresh air together—just be sure to leave your phone at home.

3. Stretch before bed. Better yet, make a routine of it! It’s a simple way to transition from the busyness of your day and wind down for sleep. Camille even swears by it.

4. Play football on Thanksgiving. It’s tradition, after all. But if football isn’t a thing for your family, you can also arrange a pick-up game of soccer, pickleball, or whatever other sport you love.

5. Enjoy the snow. Sure, this healthy holiday hack may not apply to everyone. But if you’re lucky enough to have a winter wonderland outside, make the most of it! We’re imaging snowball fights, forts, snowmen…

6. Go ice skating. Outside or at your local rink. You don’t even have to know how to hockey stop—it’s easy to work up a sweat regardless.

7. Schedule a family hike. That “hike” can mean miles uphill or a small jaunt in your local park. Whatever the terrain, it’s a fun way to connect with family while they’re in town.

8. Sneak in a morning workout. Raise of hands if you’re waking up with tight hips and achy joints thanks to all the holiday activity. There’s no better way to come back into alignment than with a juicy yoga flow. We’re partial to these (free!) workouts.

9. Sign up for a holiday fun run. Operative word: fun. Turkey Trots and holiday races tend to be a low-key affair. And the best part? The finish line usually comes with a side of hot cocoa.

10. Walk to see the holiday lights. Skip the car ride this year and venture out (in the proper attire, of course). This is one of the most magical activities—and a favorite healthy holiday hack, too.

Nutrition Holiday Habits

11. Make salads fun again. There was a time when salads took a back seat to the creamier, richer dishes. But thankfully, our taste buds have seen the light—and salads are a holiday star. At your next gathering, consider serving this squash & farro salad, a roasted honeynut squash salad, or Camille’s holiday jewels kale salad. Better yet, opt for all three.

12. Drink your greens. Of all the healthy holiday hacks, this might be the easiest. (Not to mention, gives you the most bang for your buck.) We’re all fans of AG1, but other faves include Equilibria, Thorne, and Amazing Grass.

13. Sip on bone broth. It’s a tasty way to warm up and boost your gut health. Legit: it’s liquid gold.

14. Make a few nutrient-dense swaps. Sometimes, only sour cream will satisfy. But when you want to pack in protein and get a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants, make some of these nutritionist-approved ingredient swaps.

15. Drink a ton of water. We know you know: it’s important for everything from hydrating your skin to balancing electrolytes to maintaining proper digestion. Make things a little more interesting with lemon or cucumber slices. We’re also fans of the Apothékary lineup of functional tinctures that taste amazing.

16. Go zero-proof. If you like to toast to the holidays with a glass of bubbly but don’t love the ensuing hangover, swap in non-alcoholic bevvies that taste like the real-deal—and oftentimes, better. These are our faves.

17. Enjoy sleepy-time foods. The holidays can wreak havoc on our sleep. Give yourself a helping hand with tryptophan-rich foods that encourage a restful snooze. (Hint: It’s not just turkey!)

18. Simplify your supplements. Thankfully, brands know what we need—and that’s super-packed supplements that don’t mean opening a million bottles. We’re loving Grüns daily gummy packs, which are backed by science to support everything from gut health to immunity to brain function.

19. Eat slowly. And mindfully. With so many delicious dishes and recipes to enjoy throughout the holidays, it’s important to slow down not just for digestion and satiety’s sake, but for the simple pleasure of reveling in good flavors and food.

20. Take digestive bitters. To further support digestion, bitters can help release gastric juice and stimulate saliva production, helping your body break down food more effectively. Be sure to consult your health provider before incorporating bitters into your routine.

Mindfulness Holiday Habits

21. Decorate with nature. Branches are one of our favorite ways to bring the outdoors inside. Get an expert’s tips on incorporating them into your home decor.

22. Embrace your morning routine. It’s the start of every productive day. Let these morning routine ideas inspire your own.

23. Journal your thoughts. It’s a powerful way to connect with yourself and take stock of where you are, mentally and emotionally. Particularly during a busy time of year, this can be key. Start your practice today.

24. Romanticize your coffee. (Or tea!) Whatever warm beverage you choose, pick your favorite mug, light a candle, and enjoy the cozy warmth.

25. Read the best holiday books. ‘Tis the season to get cozy with a good read. These new releases are currently on our TBR.

26. Practice breathwork. It doesn’t have to be intimidating. These three breathing exercises can help you find calm, stat.

27. Prioritize rest. Yes, even—perhaps especially—during the holidays, rest should be an essential part of your wellness routine. We tapped Ashley Neese, author of Permission to Rest, to share how it’s done.

28. Enjoy mood lighting. As the viral TikTok goes: in this house, we never use the big light. Enjoy a little glow with candles, twinkly lights, and the ambiance of the Christmas tree.

29. Practice affirmations. It’s easy to write them off, but practicing positive affirmations is a powerful way to shift your mindset and embrace your best self.

30. Share your gratitudes. You can journal about them, but why not share with loved ones and all of those who make your world a more beautiful and inspiring place just how much they mean to you? It makes all the difference.

Connection Holiday Habits

31. Cultivate intentional mornings. With your kids, your partner, your pets, and yourself. Embrace a little quiet before the chaos of the day begins.

32. Call your loved ones. The best time is now.

33. Send holiday notes. PSA: This doesn’t have to be a huge holiday to-do. Instead, identify a few people you’d like to reach out to with a written note. Share your love and pop it in the mail.

34. Experiment with intimacy oils. Call it a stocking stuffer gift for yourself. Enjoy the best lubricants with a partner or explore a world of pleasure all on your own.

35. Create no-phone zones. Designate certain areas of the house or even days during your holiday vacation where your phones are left off and stored in another room. Far away from the festitivites.

36. Invite someone who may be spending the holiday alone. If you know a friend or co-worker can’t be with their own family this year, have them over for dinner. It may just make their holiday.

37. Go caroling. Whether you do it with a church or a community organization in your area, caroling is a great way to get festive and embrace the seasonal spirit.

38. Host a holiday baking day. Invite friends and neighbors to get messy in the kitchen. It’s a fun opportunity to swap traditional family recipes.

39. Share stockings with neighbors. Fill them with homemade goods and small local gifts. Just because is a good enough reason.

40. Volunteer with family or friends. After all, the holidays are brightest when we make them a little brighter for others.