18 Copycat Fast Food Shakes That Taste Like the Real Deal

It’s a familiar scenario: You’re kicking back with your buds and suddenly you get a craving for a DQ Blizzard with ALL the mix-ins… but it’s after midnight, and you have to wait until tomorrow. Or you get a hankering for a Mickey Dee’s Shamrock Shake, but UGH — it’s summertime. You’d sell your soul for a Sonic Shake, but it’s not in your area. You crave a Starbucks Frappé in the worst way, but it’s not in your budget. It’s even sadder when your favorite go-to drink gets discontinued — looking at you, Arby’s Polar Swirl. Desperate times call for desperate measures, so copycat recipes and drink hacks to the rescue! Here are 18 copycat shake recipes you can enjoy whenever a *serious* craving hits.

1. Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake: If you live for the two months out of the year when you can enjoy this minty concoction in honor of St. Paddy’s day, you’ll love this made-from-scratch version. The Irish Cream whipped topping is a boozy delight. (via Chocolate Moosey)

2. Copycat Chick-Fil-A Frosted Lemonade: Sometimes it’s so hot outside, the only thing you can do is stay indoors and crank up the air. Or you could just whip up a batch of this frosted lemonade! It’s creamy, dreamy, sweet, tart and totally refreshing in *every* way. (via The Domestic Rebel)

3. Cotton Candy Blizzard: Delicious and delightful, this DQ copycat will make your day. Dairy-free folks can enjoy this tasty treat by substituting almond or coconut milk. (via Kelley + Cricket)

4. Steak ‘n’ Shake Copycat Mocha Speculoos Cookie Butter Milkshake: If you can’t stop thinking about Speculoos Cookie Butter since your last visit to Steak ‘n’ Shake, this cookies and milk shake is for you. If you haven’t tried it yet, be prepared to feed the addiction. Yes, it’s that good. (via Bake Happy)

5. Copycat Chick-fil-A Peach Milkshake: You can only get this peach shake at Chick-fil-A in summertime. This copycat recipe features delicious chunks of fresh peaches and vanilla ice cream blended together until creamy smooth. You’re welcome! (via Delightful E Made)

6. Mock Arby’s Jamocha Shake: The creamy concoction of coffee, chocolate and caramel you remember is made healthier with protein powder, cottage cheese and pure maple syrup. It may sound too good to be true, but it tastes just as chocolatey and delicious as the real thing. (via Briana Thomas)

7. Lemon Berry Slush: These lemon-berry slushies, made with fresh strawberries and orange juice, can be whipped up in a blender in just a few minutes. It’s a delicious way to cool down after work — happy hour, anyone? (via Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

8. Lucky Charms Avalanches: This shake tastes just like a DQ Blizzard, and when you make it at home, you can choose from a wider range of mix-ins. Like toasted oats cereal with mini marshmallows, for instance… (via Made to Be a Momma)

9. Peach Lemonade Slush: This taste-alike of everyone’s fave TGI Friday slushie has all the ripe peach flavor you crave in summer, with a requisite pop of tart lemon to quench your thirst. Peach drinks go great with bourbon BBQ, so whip up a batch for your next outdoor get-together. (via That’s What Che Said)

10. Peanut Butter-Chocolate White Out: Like your fave DQ Blizzard with peanut butter cup mix-ins, this copycat delivers on the flavor front, day or night. No peanut butter cups in the cupboard? No problem. Organic peanut butter and chocolate chips make this version even richer than the original. (via Boulder Locavore)

11. Dairy-Free Wendy’s Frosty Copycat: You can be slurping down this DF frosty in the time it would take to find your keys, get in your car and pull out of your driveway. No need to waste gas and get stuck in traffic when you can stay home, relax and enjoy all of this frosty chocolate and coconutty goodness right now. Do you need more convincing? (via Healthy Recipe Ecstasy)

12. Clean Shamrock Shake: This copycat shamrock shake is made with protein powder and all-natural ingredients, but it’s just as creamy, sweet and delicious as the original. The only thing missing is added sugar, artificial flavors and food dye. Clean living FTW! (via Laurenda Marie)

13. Five-Minute Peanut Butter Cup Salted Caramel McFlurry: This creamy, decadent McFlurry copycat is awash in salted caramel and peanut butter, then loaded up with peanut butter cups. Pro tip: Blend Cool Whip into vanilla ice cream to get that authentic McFlurry flavor. (via Layers of Happiness)

14. Samoa Blizzard: In this DQ copycat, chocolate coconut ice cream gets its crunch from the addition of Girl Scout Cookie mix-ins. The whole confection is topped with generous swirls of chocolate ganache. Rally your troops for an impromptu meeting on your porch and you’re sure to earn a merit badge. (via Spache the Spatula)

15. Copycat Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino: No need to fork over five bucks for what is essentially a cup of sweet frozen milk topped with twice the whipped cream when you can easily hack this Starbuck’s fave at home. Who knew a little milk and ice could taste so heavenly? (via The Lazy Mom’s Cooking Blog)

16. Frozen Mocha Frappuccino: If you find yourself making a coffee run at 4pm every day, it’s time to stock the office kitchen with the essentials. To get a taste-alike shake, just mix any pre-packaged coffee drink with ice cubes in a blender, then top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup and chocolate chips. But you’d better plan on making a double batch — when the rest of the office hears the blender, everyone’s going to want one. (via Jennifer Meyering)

17. Copycat Grape Nerds Slushie: When Sonic came out with their Nerds slush, one sip was like jumping in a time machine. It has exactly that throwback grape flavor you remember. You can get the same effect by freezing grape juice into a slushy and adding grape nerds. The result is fizzy, sweet and delicious. (via Create, Craft, Love)

18. Copycat Canberra Freakshake: You don’t need to hop a plane to Australia to enjoy the Canberra shake trend that gave the Internet a sugar rush. The copycat treat calls for vanilla ice cream, milk, Nutella, whipped cream, pretzels and pretzel crumbs. Any way you layer it on, it’s *all* good. (via Michael Wiltbank / Domino)

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In the seemingly endless world of fast food indulgences, few sweet treats evoke as much delight (and debate) as the iconic McDonald'sMcFlurry. In the rare case that theirice cream machine isn’t broken(IYKYK), there’s a small array of McDonald's McFlurry flavors to pick from. Though their OG McFlurry menu has dwindled in recent years, McDonald’s continues to kill the ice cream treat game –square-stemmed spoonsincluded.

Join me as I delve into the most classic McDonald’s McFlurry flavors, ranking them by taste. Plus, stay tuned for some shockingly unique international McFlurry flavors you can find around the world!

Ranking All The McDonald's McFlurry Flavors

Oreo McFlurry: 9/10

The Oreo McFlurry lands right on top for me. Oreos are a superior mix-in, because they’re bulkier than your average M&M or Butterfinger bar, giving the McFlurry more body in each bite. I enjoy how unlike the M&M McFlurry flavor, the Oreos retain their original texture: crunchy and light. They’re the perfect complement to the soft serve. My only complaint is that there could be more!

Image via Amazon

Crunch McFlurry: 5/10

I can’t hate a Crunch bar. I think the naturally-airy texture of the candy pairs really well with the soft ice cream McDonald’s uses for their McFlurries. I think the Crunch bar is very humble – landing neutrally in the middle of my ranking. It’s not outstanding, but it’s not terrible, either.

Image via Amazon

Butterfinger McFlurry: 4/10

I’m sorry to this McDonald’s McFlurry flavor, but I will always opt for Butterfinger offerings from other drive-thrus if I have the option. McD’s Butterfinger McFlurry variety is good, but not great. I just think I’m such a chocolate fiend that I demand a lot more chocolate in my McFlurries than the average person. The volume of candy included in this pick is definitely disappointing.

Image via Hershey

Heath McFlurry: 3/10

If I had to say one thing about the Heath-flavored McFlurry, it’d be “meh.” Like I’ve mentioned already, I’m always left wishing for more mix-ins, volume-wise. The Heath pieces in this McDonald’s McFlurry are few and far between, and it really makes me feel like I’m missing something with each scoop.

M&Ms McFlurry: 2/10

While I could eat handful after handful of M&Ms, I am not a fan of the classic M&Ms McFlurry. I hate how the M&Ms turn hard and frozen when they’re mixed into the vanilla soft serve ice cream. The hard texture makes each bite truly dreadful! Plus, I’ve never once had an appropriate amount of candies to balance out the creamy ice cream component – every M&Ms McFlurry I’ve ordered is simply lacking in the mix-ins department.

More Cool McDonald's McFlurry Flavors Around The World

Cadbury Creme Egg McFlurry (Ireland)

I am truly fuming with jealousy that McDonald’s Ireland gets to have the Cadbury Creme Egg McFlurry. They’re my #1 Easter candy, and so addictive that I could eat a whole bag. When you mix that with soft serve, how could it be bad?! My only concern is, like with the M&Ms, the candies would freeze up and get hard, making it difficult to eat.

Siakam Swirl McFlurry (Canada)

The Siakam Swirl McFlurry, available in Canada (minus Quebec), blends smooth ice cream with hot chocolate fudge and red Smarties, a hard-shelled chocolate candy. I love that the hot fudge is included in this flavor – I think it’d add an interesting flavor effect with the mix-ins.

Daim McFlurry (Denmark)

This McFlurry flavor from Denmark looks so good! The Daim McFlurry fuses Daim candies (chocolate and almond) with the classic ice cream base. The McDonald’s Denmark site says that it’s made with fresh milk, which makes a huge difference in taste and texture. The smoother ice cream looks like it pairs exceptionally well with the crunchy candy.

Stroopwafel McFlurry (Netherlands)

It’s only right that McDonald’s Netherlands has a Stroopwafel McFlurry. I need to find acopycat recipe, ASAP! The stickiness of the wafers and caramel would be divine.

Pinguinos McFlurry (Mexico)

Mexican McDonald’s must be so scrumptious, because they have a Pinguinos McFlurry! If you’ve never had Pinguinos, they’re basically the same thing as Hostess Cupcakes. I can only imagine how yummy the cakey, sugary pastry would meld with ice cream. Delish!

Pistachio McFlurry (Italy)

I am concerningly obsessed with pistachio-flavored anything, and I think this Pistachio McFlurry from McDonald’s Italy belongs in my belly right this instant. It looks like it has some crunchy pistachio bits mixed in, with a green-ish pistachio syrup drizzled on top. OMG.

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Images via McDonald's.

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Welcome to your June horoscope for 2024! Can you believe it's been nearly half a year since the New Year? Navigating each month with you has been an honor. As a professional astrologer and transformation coach, I've noticed a common thread with people seeking answers by working with astrology in these unstable years. They all come when they're in the most challenging moments, wishing and hoping for a silver lining and wanting to know when it will pass. As we navigate Gemini Season, looking at situations from all sides rather than merely assuming is crucial. Being curious and open-minded is vital in mastering this season. Embracing diversity (hello, Pride Month!) and holding space and understanding for others by communication is the way Gemini rolls. No matter where you are in your journey, confused, uncertain, and just plain stuck…know that astrology can help you fill the gaps while gaining peace and self-awareness. Now, let's look at June's astrological forecast.

This month exhibits a delightful blend of happiness and opportunities. Mercury, the cosmic messenger, starts this month as it enters its home sign, Gemini. It enables us to get the conversations going at a comfortable speed and flow. A new moon in the social butterfly sign, Gemini, sets the scene for us to start anew, involving our ideas and even opening pathways in our love stories. What a great start as summer approaches. Then, Mars, the planet of drive and motivation, enters the stable sign Taurus, allowing us to build a solid foundation aligned with our future ambitions.

For the second half of the month, Venus and Mercury enter the nurturing sign Cancer, inviting us to hold space for conscientious-filled discussions and security in our connections. Things will begin to heat up as Vesta, the asteroid of devotion and keeper of the sacred flame, enters the fire sign Leo. It will reawaken our inner fire while igniting a new phase in our journey involving our devotion. The Sun's journey into maternal Cancer manifests a period of self-care and emotional needs. The full moon in Capricorn heralds a moment for you to analyze the state of your structures while letting go of the outmoded in your life. The month wraps up with the structure-oriented planet Saturn retrograde, which gives you a chance to contemplate the kind of life you have been building. Keep reading to understand what this all means for your personal June horoscope!

​Key Astrology Dates For Your June Horoscope In 2024

Photo by Victoria Emerson/PEXELS

  • 6/3 Mercury enters Gemini
  • 6/6 New Moon in Gemini
  • 6/9 Mars enters Taurus
  • 6/17 Venus enters Cancer, and Mercury enters Cancer
  • 6/19 Vesta enters Leo
  • 6/20 Sun enters Cancer
  • 6/21 Full Moon in Capricorn
  • 6/29 Saturn Retrograde in Pisces

What To Expect In Your June Horoscope For 2024

Photo by Vlada Karpovich/PEXELS

May was epic with the solar flares...did you see that? It was a month filled with personal revelations regarding our self-worth and integrity moving forward. June will take these notions a notch higher regarding our communication with others and even analyzing our inner dialogues. It will be your chance to act on your goals (mid-year reset, anyone?) and witness the changes as you continue to master your thoughts. The cosmos begins its dance on Monday, June 3, when Mercury, the planet of communication and ideas, enters its dignity sign, Gemini. This period extends clarity and speed in our dialogue. While airy Gemini can spiral out in different directions, Mercury thrives in this sign, as it will help us feel more open and receptive to ideas from various sources. The more curious and unbiased you are, the better.

The new moon in expressive Gemini on Thursday, June 6, provides a perfect opportunity to socialize and attend events. As Venus is in exact alignment with the new moon, it can lead to experiences filled with love, laughter, and joy. It will be a fun night to remember. Book an outing with your friends or arrange a solo date—this cosmic event will be serendipitous. That weekend, Mars, the planet of motivation, enters the earthy sign Taurus on Sunday, June 9. This planetary ingress will slow things down at a comfortable pace. Ensuring you observe before diving headfirst into things that you may regret later. You will feel more at peace. For those who are impatient (guilty), get that yoga mat out or take long nature walks to work off that built-up steam.

Venus, the love planet, and Mercury enter Cancer on Monday, June 17, shifting our focus to deepen our connections with others while holding heart-to-heart conversations. These two power planets merging on the same day will ignite a breakthrough in your perception of love and values. Expressing your vulnerability will help you see where you stand in your relationship(s). The truth will set you free. Expect your heart to sing as Vesta, the asteroid of self-devotion and commitment, enters the sign Leo on Wednesday, June 19. This transit will ignite a stirring in your core, giving you the courage to step up and claim your happiness. The fire inside will burn stronger as you remain invested in your passion and grit. Allow yourself to take center stage and share your gifts. The world is waiting.

Waterworks Cancer season begins on Thursday, June 20, with the Sun moving into the sign of the crab. This cosmic event heralds the beginning of summer, and we begin to embody warmth, compassion, nurturing, and emotional sensitivity. Hosting potlucks or social outings can be a great way to commemorate your Cancer friends. Focus on building solid, authentic connections. We deserve to rebuild after the eclipse season back in April.

The full moon in Capricorn on Friday, June 21, will bestow us the ability to analyze the state of our structures. Many will realize what needs to be done to rebuild solidity after what has not been fully cultivated. This period can be a bit of a "Debbie Downer," with Saturn in intense opposition to Juno, the asteroid of marriage and committed partners. If you are in a relationship, you will understand what needs to improve or be at peace by cutting your losses and moving on.

Speaking of Saturn, this month concludes with it entering its retrograde phase on Saturday, June 29. Contemplate what kind of life you are building these next several months. Your awareness of karma will heighten, and becoming aligned with integrity and humility will alchemize. A review of your priorities and commitments will inevitably line up.

Read Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs For Your June Horoscope For 2024

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Aries

You're set for lots of movement this month, Aries. Mercury entering Gemini will power up your ideas and the ability to articulate your passions. Don't forget to jot down your ideas because your wires may cross. The new moon in Gemini presents an outlet to refine your talents, but it will require you to leave your comfort zone. Try something new. In time for Mars to enter your house of material resources, expect momentum to build as you learn to strategize at work. Remove possessions that weigh you down to make room for an abundant flow to start. When Venus and Mercury enter Cancer, the month will quiet down, helping you deepen the connection with your home and family. It is time to reflect inward and evaluate your emotional needs. The full moon in Capricorn will help you review what you have built in your career endeavors and whether its current direction aligns with you energetically. Saturn retrograde will help you do some soul searching, let go, and allow the Universe to reveal its message. Reflect before deciding.

Taurus

Get ready for a month filled with momentum and renewed purpose, Taurus. Venus aligned with the new moon in your house of resources and skills will level up your manifestation skills. Remember that it all begins by mastering your thoughts to make your dreams a reality. Clear out the old cobwebs and infuse your purpose by approaching a different direction. In time for Mars, the action planet entering your sign, this will infuse you with extended confidence and assertiveness. Name your terms. Venus and Mercury are in the house of ideas and local groups. If you have been experiencing a mental block or the lack of joie de vivre, expect your zest to power up. Expect serendipitous events as you visit new places locally or start a conversation. The full moon in Capricorn residing in your passion and creativity sector will conclude a project or love story. Investing time by focusing inward and connecting with your heart will guide you toward the right path. This Saturn retrograde in the next few months will grant you the space to review your aspirations and authentic connections. Trust and flow.

Gemini

Your birthday era continues, and this month, expect delightful surprises, Gemini. Mercury, your ruler planet, will amp up your conversation game. Lead with your dreams, not expectations. This Saturn retrograde will lift the veil on what you can do to attract the happy ending you always wanted. The new moon aligning with your sign signals a time for you to step into your true light and reveal your cards. You are ready. The second half of this month will allow you to level up your income and resources as Mercury and Venus enter Cancer. Talk with your boss or business partner or launch that passion endeavor. Clarity will kick in as you remain assertive. Vesta in your zone of communication and local groups will radiate warmth and welcome from those who align with your message. Share, and don't hold back. When the Sun enters Cancer, expect more upgrades involving your self-worth and resources. Organize your finances, pay your debts, or solve your issues with money–you will see a clearing in time. The full moon in Capricorn will embody your intimacy and merged resources sector, helping you energetically clear from past unresolved matters involving relationships. It is a period of remaining aligned with your renewed self and letting go of who you were.

Cancer

Happy birthday, Cancer! Your season starts this month with the cosmos leveling up your manifestation skills. Mercury will go through your subconscious and dream realm in the first half of June. It will be a period for you to reflect inward and sift through what aligns with you authentically. The great news is that Mars in Taurus is happening in your networks and friendship circles, giving you the rein to take charge of your aspirations. Remember to attract, not chase after your desired results or connections with others. Expect magic to happen when Venus and Mercury enter your sign, making you an energy magnet. Romance is likely in the works as the love planet powers up your identity and appearance sector. Re-polish that dating app, or go out and mingle. The stars are aligned. The full moon in Capricorn is hosting a party in your house of partnerships and commitment. Single or taken, you will understand what needs to be released to make room for better relationship experiences. The great news is that Saturn retrograde will guide you to attract the desired outcome as you learn to read the cues of your intuition. Trust your gut.

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Leo

Last month was all work and no play, Leo. Guess what? Mercury and Venus are shaking up your friendship and networks sector this month. In a good way! The new moon in Gemini will also support your future aspirations. Go out and hit the town with your near and dear, or share your ideas with your professional connections. It will be your big break. Everything work-related will also take a turn for the better when Mars in Taurus resides in your career sector. Expect your confidence to rise, but don't go too high and mighty. Measure your moves, and the right opportunities will fall into your hands. Later this month, the Sun, Venus, and Mercury in Cancer will ignite changes in your subconscious patterns, enabling you to factor in the emotional needs behind your next steps. It is also a dreamy period that will ignite your intuitive abilities. Jot down any otherworldly thoughts that come to mind (don't question), begin a meditation practice, or engage in artistic outlets to ace this transit. It's time to assess and organize your work surroundings, as the full moon in Capricorn will shed light on your mind-body-spirit connection. Smudge your space with sage or clear the air with your colleague or superior to establish better patterns.

Virgo

Work and professional status will be on your radar this month, Virgo. Mercury, your ruler planet, will stir up the need for you to take charge regarding your career direction. The new moon aligned with Venus in Gemini will support your future endeavors as you integrate an innovative approach at work. You will shine as you trust in your voice. Mars in Taurus will invigorate your personal beliefs and help you step out of your comfort zone. Be bold and book that trip or launch that podcast. Whatever requires faith and courage, go for it. The second half of the month allows you to observe your aspirations and societal standing. Expect a wave of openings with Venus and Mercury in Cancer activating your network zone. Reach out and showcase yourself – but remember integrity is vital. The full moon in Capricorn closes a chapter regarding a project or romantic prospect. Tying loose ends and making peace will build bridges and even better endeavors. Saturn retrograde in your partnership zone over the next few months will help you understand the lack of connection in your relationship or help you improve your love story.

Libra

Expanding your horizons will begin as you renew your perception of life, Libra. This month will be filled with magical experiences as you invest time evaluating your journey. Mercury and Venus powering up your higher learning and soul work sector will breathe life back into your intentions. It can open a door for you to realize where the root of your passions rests. Taking a class, working with a coach, or reading a self improvement book can be an excellent place to begin this venture. Later this month, when Venus and Mercury enter Cancer, it will power up your career and public status zone. It will be your chance to position yourself in a role that helps you step into your power. It can be a challenging time to confront injustices with authority, but it enables you to understand the deeper meaning behind your motivation. The full Moon in Capricorn phasing into your emotional security and home life sector will reveal the truth, enabling you to see the full spectrum behind your past choices and helping you shape better outcomes in your story.

Scorpio

This month will feel like an out-of-body experience, Scorpio. Gemini season invites you to retreat and observe your inner self. Mercury and Venus will travel through the house of intimacy and joint resources in the first half of June, presenting a different route to consider involving your connections. As you express your vulnerability, your relationships will strengthen. The new moon in Gemini will revive your purpose and connection with your intimate connection with a significant other or to yourself. It is the opportunity to hone in on what you need instead of "settling." Mars in Taurus will embody your partnership zone, showing you the path regarding your relationship direction or approach to love matters. Exhibiting patience and acceptance will extend healing paths for business or your romantic connections. The second half of June will allow you to step into a new path filled with intention as Mercury and Venus phase into your travels and broadcasting sector. Work on that book and share everything you have learned these past few months. The world is waiting. The full moon in Capricorn closes a chapter regarding an idea or old skill you have considered secure. Embrace this chrysalis period.

Photo by Ba Tik/PEXELS

Sagittarius

Your focus will be on your love life and long-term commitments this month, Sagittarius. Mercury in Gemini aligned with Venus will infuse your relationship zone, prompting you to take matters into your own hands rather than leaving things to chance. The new moon in Gemini will open a new path regarding your relationship status or business ventures. Communication and ideas will optimally flow as you hold space for others to express their feelings. Listen first before reacting. When Mars enters your health zone, your energy will build, and it can spiral into irritability if left unmonitored. To master these next few weeks, transmute your pent-up energy by incorporating an exercise and self-care routine. Mercury and Venus will be in your intimacy and resources sector for the second half of the month. These two planets will stir changes within your internal environment, helping you face unresolved matters involving money and long-term investments. If you feel out of sync with yourself, book an energy healing session or reserve a quiet space for clarity to kick in. The full moon in Capricorn will close a chapter involving your debts or shed light on how you deal with money. Learn how to develop a better relationship with money by releasing bad habits regarding spending or overextending your energy to others. It is safe for you to be thrifty.

Capricorn

Capricorn, you will invoke a new approach to your health and well-being this month. The new moon, in line with Venus in Gemini, enters your health zone, infusing you with the need to beautify your mind, body, and spirit self. With your overly ambitious nature, it's easy to overlook your body's needs, but this month will be crucial for you to consider this new approach because your work life is about to get even busier. Manifest what needs to change regarding your daily routine, and your body and work life will even out. The great news is that Mars is entering your romantic and fun sector, and your social calendar will be jam-packed with dates. It is an opportunity for you to incorporate more play to attract better experiences or dating prospects. The second half of the month promises romance, commitment, and stimulating connections. The Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Cancer phasing over your relationships sector will nurture your connections while creating the necessary changes. Remember to factor in empathy if you seek answers regarding your relationship direction – business or romantic. The full moon in your sign will spotlight your self-image and heightened perception regarding your place in the world. Show your true colors and share your radiance.

Aquarius

Passions run high and will be rose-colored and multifaceted in expression for you this month, Aquarius. Gemini season leads with the significant luminaries such as the Sun and Moon in your romance and creativity zone. If you have gone through a dry spell in love, this new moon and Venus will reignite creative inspiration and zest in your life. As though on the prowl, your thoughts and love life are fertile with endless possibilities, and it can be challenging to ground yourself. Embrace this side of you, but don't forget to assess before leaping with romantic prospects or passion projects. Vesta in Leo will occur in your relationship and commitment zone, igniting a connection and devotion from someone from afar. This transit allows you to reach out and form heart-centered connections with pure purpose. Incorporate transparency to get answers. The full moon in Capricorn residing in your subconscious and dream realms will cleanse old subconscious patterning and let go of past resentments. Clear away the old to allow the Universe to guide your next steps. Saturn retrograde these next few months will help you rebuild your self-worth while strategically planning your new passion pursuits.

Pisces

Home and family life will be your primary focus this month, Pisces. Mercury and Venus are aligned in this sector, prompting you to analyze your family and emotional security priorities. What makes you feel safe? The planets Mercury and Venus beckon you to research the deeper meaning behind your insecurities, and the best place to begin this venture is to analyze your family line. Healing your past wounds can be found through epigenetics, reiki, or prayer. The new moon in Gemini will help you turn over a new leaf regarding any past unresolved issues, enabling you to set down new roots. It can be through family planning, moving, or renewing your family connections. When Cancer season begins, you will feel more in flow and centered due to Venus being in a supportive position, and Mars will assist you in grounding your creative ideas. Deciphering your concepts will be seamless. Take charge of your ambition. The full moon in Capricorn will secure your connections with friends and networks as you express your vulnerability. Any unresolved issues or burned bridges can be rebuilt during this lunation. This Saturn retrograde will allow you to review your next moves personally and professionally while helping you preserve your energy. You will experience renewal as you remain invested in your well-being.

Want to learn the astrology basics and decode your birth chart? Take a look at Lumi's new beginner's astrology workbook.

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After Reese Witherspoon sent fans into a dramatic spiral or concern over her very own snow ice cream recipe, we’re here to settle the debate and say yes – there is a safe way to eat snow. In fact, snow ice cream is a safe and tasty activity to accompany any closed-in, cozy snow day. We’ve got the scoop on how to make it!

This snow ice cream recipe from Museum of Ice Cream is perfect for curing winter blues. Museum of Ice Cream has welcomed millions of ice cream-lovers to their experiential exhibits with locations in Austin, Chicago, New York City, and Singapore, so they really know their stuff when it comes to sweets.

How to Make Snow Ice Cream

@reesewitherspoon

Snow days were made for Chococinnos ❄️☕️

♬ Let's go - Official Sound Studio

Similar to Reese’s chocolatey, coffee-filled “snow salt Chocochinos,” our snow ice cream recipe builds its sweet base using actual snowfall. But, before you dive in to your nearest pile of untouched snow, make sure you follow these safety tips:

  • Use clean snow only. Don’t eat snow that’s been plowed – it’s likely to be contaminated with asphalt, snow-melting salts, and dirt that can harm you when ingested.
  • If you use pesticides or fertilizers on your lawn, you might consider finding fresh snow elsewhere to avoid harmful contaminants.

The best way to collect snow for making snow ice cream is in a clean bowl as it falls. From there, you can start mixing in milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and your fave sea salt!

Ingredients for Snow Ice Cream

  • 1 cup of milk (any kind will work)
  • 1/3 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt
  • 8 cups of clean snow

Directions for Snow Ice Cream

  1. Begin by placing a large bowl in the freezer before you begin. Cold bowls help keep your snow ice cream from melting too fast.
  2. Once you've measured out all of your sugar, vanilla extract, salt and milk, take your large bowl out of the freezer.
  3. In the bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, vanilla and salt until well combined.
  4. Next, head outside and scoop up some clean, fresh snow. (Or, if you've already let it collect in the bowl, bring it inside and add to the large bowl.)
  5. Immediately after adding the snow with the other ingredients, stir until it is incorporated and looks as close to regular ice cream as possible.
  6. Time to eat! Dive in right away and enjoy your sweet treat.

What is snow ice cream made of?

Snow ice cream is typically made of fresh, clean snow, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt.

Is it safe to eat snow ice cream?

Yes, snow ice cream is safe to eat as long as you use snow that hasn't been disturbed (plowed, melted, driven on, touched) in any way.

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Recipe + photography by Museum of Ice Cream.

Dearest gentle readers, we're less than a day away from seeing gorgeous co-stars Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton grace our screens in Bridgerton Season 3. Is it obvious we've been yearning for their onscreen chemistry? We can't help it — "Polin" simply beckons!

If you've been enjoying seeing them on the red carpet and can't believe how well they work together, there's a reason for that — an amazing friendship! As gorgeous as these two are together, Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton are pretty much besties IRL. You know we love talking about good friendships (here's looking at you Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez), so it's only right we honor two of our favorite Bridgerton co-stars.

Here's three super sweet reasons why they're friendship goals!

Three Sweet Reasons Why Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton Are Friendship Goals

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Netflix

They're dance partners.

No, this isn't a joke. Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton have been dance partners for — hold your breath — five years. Nicola first revealed this fun fact about their friendship during an interview with E! News.

As she shared why she and Luke were able to film the steamy scenes we'll be watching soon, she said, "We've actually been dance partners for five years. So we had a certain physical comfort level with each other which helps immensely."

Luke added, "You'd think filming a scene like that with someone...who has been your friend for like four years, would be a daunting experience, but actually it was a reassuring one."

Whew, I think I may need to check my temperature because those are still very hot answers 😮💨.

Image Courtesy of Netflix

Support is at the center of their friendship.

These two know that being supportive is essential for most friendships to thrive, and they're certainly fond of being there for one another. Nicola shared a cute pic of the two last year on Instagram where she'd arrived to support Luke Newton during his run in The Shape of Things in London.

She captioned their candid picture, "Smashing it up on the London stage and I’m so proud, you’re the best @lukenewtonuk."

Similarily, Luke showed his support for Nicola when he wore a shirt by the nonprofit organization Choose Love. Nicole shared the sweet pic on Instagram and wrote , "I know you’ve been waiting and the latest @chooselovemodel is here
Thank you Luke for being the best and supporting this incredible charity who are supporting refugees in great need the world over."

Image via Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

They don't mind showing friendly PDA.

Does friendly PDA exist? Sure! Think about the last time you hugged your bestie without involving any romantic feelings? The same applies to Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton. If you ask me, it seems like they're having fun during the press run for the third season of Bridgerton, but can you blame them?

Polin — the cute nickname Bridgerton fans have for Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton— are way too cute to ignore. But, any theories you may have that they're secretly dating will have to be put on hold.

As of now, People reports they'e just friends and nothing more. Nicola even told Extra how she and Luke feel about the rumors. "We think it's really sweet ... because we truly love each other."

We know this doesn't mean you'll stop dreaming about Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton being Hollywood's next 'It' couple, so we won't stop you. Just know that their friendship is equally beautiful and deserves to be respected!

What do you think about Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton's friendship? Let us know in the comments and follow us on Facebook for more Bridgerton news!

Lead image via Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

If you’re the kind of person that hurries through dinner to quickly scurry to the dessert portion, enjoys homemade baking, or has a sweet tooth for the finer treats in life, then this one’s for you. The beauty of desserts is that there is so much room for variety and creativity in flavoring — from a classic vanilla cupcake to an indulgent, hard-to-perfect Boston creme pie.

Despite the large range of options, it can be easy to stick with what you like, run out of ideas, and become bored with your go-to dessert recipes. That’s why we put together a list of the most decadent desserts to make on a random Tuesday night or bring to your next dinner party. Here are 19 of our sweetest picks!

Strawberry Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

Strawberry lovers are going to be all over this dessert. The strawberry rhubarb upside-down cake lets the fruit shine and is drizzled with a caramelized topping. (via Completely Delicious)

Chocolate Bourbon Chai Latte Cupcakes with Butter Pecan Frosting

How can you take your cupcakes to the next level? Bourbon. Chai spice. And brown sugar pecans. These chocolate bourbon chai latte cupcakes with butter pecan frosting are a fun alternative to pecan pie and add a little spice kick to your dessert. (via Half Baked Harvest).

Brown Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

The recipe name alone, brown butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, is enough to get us on board. Sprinkle some sea salt on top to achieve that salty and sweet combination! (via Half Baked Harvest).

Dulce De Leche Cheesecake

When in doubt, add caramel to your favorite baked goods. A dulce de leche cheesecake offers a sweeter take on the classic cheesecake, due to the canned dulce de leche (aka caramelized milk). Graham crackers or crumbs will work for this one! (via Women Scribbles)

Lemon Raspberry Cookies

For the citrus dessert lovers out there, you’ll have to add these lemon raspberry cookies to your baking list. The ingredients call for all the stops in lemon flavoring: lemon zest, lemon extract, and an additional sweet lemon glaze. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcakes With Chocolate Ganache

Being gluten-free doesn’t mean you need to give up decadent chocolate desserts. The gluten-free chocolate cupcakes with chocolate ganache consist of dark chocolate, chocolate chips, and unsweetened cocoa powder (no flour!) making it naturally gluten-free and delicious. (via The Bossy Kitchen)

Cranberry Mini Vegan Cheesecakes

When you think of desserts, you think cheesecake. These cranberry mini vegan cheesecakes fit precisely in a 12-slot muffin tin and carry a date-walnut crust. (via Salt & Lavender)

Brown Butter Banana Bread

Stray from the original banana bread to this brown butter banana bread that can be made in an hour. Brown butter adds a nutty flavoring that presents a deeper taste than regular melted butter! (via The Endless Meal)

Key Lime Donuts

This key lime donut recipe lends a twist to the traditional glazed donut. You’ll need the juice and the zest of key limes to really make that flavor shine. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use pantry items like a canned goods jar to get that circle shape! (via Cozy Cravings)

Salted Caramel Brownies

Upgrade basic brownies with some much-needed salted caramel. This salted caramel brownie recipe boasts a rich dark chocolate with pools of salted caramel throughout. It’s as indulgent as you can get in two hours! (via Butternut Bakery)

Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes

You can’t go wrong with a traditional, homemade vanilla cupcake. These perfect vanilla cupcakes went through some serious rounds of testing and are inspired by the nostalgic box cake mix you see on grocery store shelves. The vanilla bean buttercream is mouth-watering! (via Butternut Bakery)

Lemon Bars

During the spring and summer months, you’ll find yourself gravitating towards these lemon bars. You can bake them in under an hour, with the shortbread base only containing three ingredients: butter, flour, and sugar. (via Vikalinka)

Snickerdoodle Mini Muffins

No, muffins aren’t just for breakfast. They’re for snacks, desserts — and this snickerdoodle mini muffin recipe is for your cinnamon and sugar cravings. They are a bite-sized reminder of the classic snickerdoodle cookie! (via Averie Cooks)

Honey Soaked Almond Cake

The secret to this honey soaked almond cake is super-fine almond flour, lending a top-notch texture for the perfect baked good. The simple honey topping is what takes this cake to the next level. (via The Original Dish)

Blueberry Lavender Ice Cream with Hazelnut

What says decadent dessert more than ice cream? This blueberry lavender ice cream with hazelnut recipe elevates from the usual chocolate or vanilla flavorings, and is completely refreshing. Topping it with a hazelnut crumble is optional! (via The Original Dish)

Mini Peach Rhubarb Cobblers

If you’re looking for guests (or yourself!) to grab and go, these personalized mini peach rhubarb cobbers are the ideal treat — especially in the summer. Make sure to pick out the juiciest of peaches for the best results. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Cranberry Swirl Almond Pound Cake

Pound cake is one of those ‘sure thing’ desserts that you know everyone will love. This cranberry swirl almond pound cake is easier to whip up than it looks, with one of the key ingredients being almond extract! (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Chocoflan Impossible Cake

This chocoflan impossible cake is a fun take on a Mexican delicacy: vanilla flan. It’s dense, rich, and the ideal treat for chocolate lovers. Snag your go-to bundt pan and cajeta (essentially homemade goat’s milk caramel) from the Mexican food section of your grocery store. (via A Spicy Perspective)

One Hour Cinnamon Rolls

Nothing says baking like a homemade cinnamon roll. Skip the hassle of overnight dough rising with these one-hour cinnamon rolls. Trust us, the pastry is not just for breakfast, you can make them for dessert too! (via Amanda Wilens)

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Header image via The Original Dish