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If there's one thing we know for sure, it's that we'll never turn down chocolate chip cookies. There's something so comforting about the mixture of buttery dough and melty chocolate, especially when it's right out of the oven. In honor of National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day today (August 4th), we wanted to give you a glimpse into chocolatier Jacques Torres' method for making the best cookies ever.
Torres has been famous for his chocolate creations loooong before his turn as a judge on the hit Netflix show Nailed It!. The French chef produces some of the most sought-after gourmet chocolates in the world, so we had to know his version of an American classic: chocolate chip cookies.
When we interviewed him at one of his New York chocolate shops, he told us he had quite the story behind this recipe. “I tried to make French pastries — things that are a bit more complicated — but when I talked to my customers, the word ‘cookies’ came back a lot. But I’m French. I didn’t grow up with [American-style] cookies. I grew up with shortbread.”
That didn’t stop him from investigating how he could deliver for his customers. “I didn’t know how to make chocolate chip cookies, so I went to a grocery store not too far from here and I bought the Toll House Morsels. I opened the bag — and put all the chocolate in the garbage. It’s a true story!” What he wanted, after all, wasn’t the chocolate: it was the classic recipe for chocolate chip cookies on the back. “I took that recipe and translated it into grams and rebalanced it the way I think the recipe should be. Of course, I [used] the chocolate I use for bonbons [because] it has more cocoa butter,” he added.
The success of his cookies escalated quickly. “We arrived at a point where we could not scoop the cookies fast enough, so we bought a machine that cuts the dough. It now extrudes 80 cookies a minute. We sell thousands every week!” You can buy the world-famous chocolate chip cookies on his website for $24 (for six cookies) OR you can whip up a homemade batch with the recipe provided. Just don’t forget his tips for what makes his cookies extra-special. Torres says, “Baking is simple. What’s not simple is to find the best ingredients possible.” Luckily, he shared many *key* ingredients below.
Jacques Torres' Tips For The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
1. Use a Better Butter: Find a butter that has more fat than others. Plugrá is Torres’ go-to and what gets used in his shop. It’s a French-style butter that’s made in America, so it’s much cheaper than the imported kind, and its rich flavor really shines in the cookie.
2. Get a Good Flour: King Arthur Flour is what Torres swears by.
3. Age the Dough: “We let the dough age for 24 hours so the flavor becomes stronger,” Torres tells us. The New York Times explains that this technique of letting the dough rest allows the liquids to fully absorb into the flour, resulting in a cookie with more even caramelization plus richer molasses-y notes.
4. Invest in the Chocolate: Torres is skeptical of chocolates that don’t melt — like chips, for instance. His advice? Find a high-quality chocolate with lots of cocoa butter, so that the chocolate melts and oozes as it bakes. For this recipe, Torres recommends his baking disks, which are sold online. If you’re in a pinch, Valrhona fèves, or oval-shaped chocolate pieces, are at available at Whole Foods. That’s what we used for this recipe. Torres also says that what makes his cookie so good is that “there’s more chocolate than dough,” so remember: Pour those disks in liberally!
5. Salt It: Though it’s optional in the recipe, we’re all about going hard on the salty sprinkle on top. It helps accentuate the flavors and balance the sweetness.
How To Make Jacques Torres' Chocolate Chip Cookies
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
Ingredients
- 2 cups minus 2 tablespoons (8 ½ ounces) cake flour
- 1 2/3 cups (8 1/2 ounces) bread flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt
- 2 1/2 sticks (1 1/4 cups) unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cups (10 ounces) light brown sugar
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (8 ounces) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons natural vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 pounds bittersweet chocolate disks or fèves, at least 60 percent cacao
- sea salt (optional)
Instructions
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
1. Sift flours, baking soda, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Set aside.
2. Using a mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter and sugars together until very light, about 5 minutes.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
3. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
4. Reduce speed to low, add dry ingredients and mix until just combined, 5 to 10 seconds.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
5. Drop chocolate pieces in and incorporate them without breaking them.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
6. Press plastic wrap against dough and refrigerate for 24 to 36 hours. Dough may be used in batches and can be refrigerated for up to 72 hours.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
7. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat. Set aside.
8. Scoop 6 (3 1/2-ounce) mounds of dough (the size of generous golf balls) onto baking sheet, making sure to turn any chocolate pieces that are poking up back horizontally; it will make for a more attractive cookie.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
9. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt (optional).'
10. Bake until golden brown but still soft, 18 to 20 minutes.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
11. Transfer sheet to a wire rack for 10 minutes, then slip cookies onto another rack to cool a bit more.
Image via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co
12. Repeat with remaining dough, or reserve dough, refrigerated, for baking remaining batches the next day. Eat warm, with a big napkin.
Follow us on Pinterest for more chocolate chip cookie recipes.
(Recipe via Jacques Torres; photos via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co)
This post has been updated.
Low-carb recipes are wonderful because they serve up a mix of heart-healthy fats, protein, and healthy carbs (like veggies) that may help lower your risk for certain conditions like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Got too much on your plate to cook those healthy low-carb meals that take literal hours? We got you. Just set aside an hour tops, and you can have a balanced meal on the table (and leftovers for lunch!) all week long. It really doesn't get much better than that!
Here are some of our favorite low-carb recipes that may just inspire you to toss those delivery menus out for good. They'll inspire you and remind you that being healthy doesn't mean skimping on flavor or variety.
Chilled Strawberry Soup
When it's too hot to even *think* about grilling a hamburger (that's how you know it's really hot), consider a chilly lunch instead. This pick is flavorful and will use up all those strawberries you have sitting in your fridge. (via Brit + Co.)
Chicken Salad Keto Lettuce Wraps
Lettuce wraps make this recipe handheld, portable, and perfect for picnics, barbecues, and work. Top with raspberries and walnuts for some extra color and texture. (via Brit + Co.)
Sweetgreen's Spicy Cashew Dressing
When you have a signature dressing on-hand, all of your salads, pasta salads, and sandwiches get exponentially better. (via Brit + Co.)
Cardi B’s Spicy Bowl Recipe
Leave it to Cardi B to give us the best bowl recipe ever. Fair warning: if you don't like spicy foods, you'll really, really need to test this before you make a whole batch. (via Brit + Co.)
Low-Carb Cauliflower Quiche Cups
These bites make for the *perfect* afternoon snack. Not only do they have cauliflower, but the kale and tomatoes add some extra nutrients. (via Brit + Co.)
Smashed Brussels Sprouts
Get your share of delicious veggies smothered with mozzarella and parmesan, and achieve ketosis without the lingering hunger. (via Brit + Co.)
Winter Greens & Citrus Salad
A crunchy salad is the ideal dinner when you just need a light meal. This colorful recipe features atahini-ginger dressing that's totally the bomb dot com. (via Brit + Co.)
Whole30 Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup
As s creamy comfort soup at its finest, this Whole30-approved recipe is actually made with cashews and nutritional yeast instead of dairy! That's a double diet win! (via Brit + Co.)
Bang Bang Cauliflower
Who needs chicken when cauliflower will do the trick instead? This straightforward dish works great for dinner or as a side dish — your choice. (via Brit + Co.)
Low Carb Recipes That Are Both Delicious And Healthy
Keto Cauliflower Rice Casserole
Casseroles are one of our favorite comfort foods, but they're not always the healthiest option. The zucchini, mushrooms, and cheeses in this recipe are so flavorful, that you won't even notice the missing carbs. (via Brit + Co.)
Keto Cheese Ball
Eating for one? This low-carb recipe is the perfect answer to a light dinner that's as good (or better) as a baked potato. And if you get peckish later, check out one of these low carb snacks. (via Brit + Co.)
Brown Butter Salmon with Capers and Tomatoes
Simple, clean, and *so* tasty! Opt for quick sautéed wild salmon with just a few basic ingredients and enjoy big time flavor with your low-carb diet. (via Brit + Co.)
Lemon Miso Spring Green Soup
Make this recipe for a very healthy, veggie-packed soup. This spring medley is as delicious as it is nutritious, plus it's quick and low in carbs. (via Brit + Co.)
Whole30 Animal Style In-N-Out Burger
You can indeed transform an In-N-Out Animal-Style burger into a Whole30 masterpiece, down to a low-sugar special sauce and crunchy lettuce wrap. Make the caramelized onions ahead of time to cut down on the total cook time for this easy low-carb dinner idea. (via Brit + Co.)
Mexican-Style Hot Dogs in Lettuce Wraps
Instead of a bun, this recipe uses lettuce wraps to keep things low-carb. The beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado add some fresh and oh-so delicious flavors. (via Brit + Co.)
Steamed Sea Bass with Broccoli, Mushrooms, and Summer Squash
With lemons, squash, and other veggies, this easy recipe is a great option for summer dinners. If you're watching your saturated fats intake, just swap butter for EVOO. (via Brit + Co.)
Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
When you need a bowl of mac and cheese, this bacon-y Brussels sprouts in a thick cheese sauce will curb your noodle cravings. This low-carb recipe yields a big, casserole-sized batch, so you can munch on leftovers all week long. (via Brit + Co.)
Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken
Eat this versatile chicken with a side of veggies for dinner, and simply reheat the next day for a salad or lettuce wrap. (via The Whole30 Slow Cookerfor Brit + Co.; photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani)
Keto Ricotta Chicken Meatballs
Rich dark-meat chicken forms stellar meatballs with almond flour, heavy cream, and Parmesan and ricotta cheeses. Serve them with roasted vegetables or your favorite low-carb pasta substitute! (via Brit + Co.)
Healthy Egg Muffins
Easy egg breakfast for dinner? We say "yes, please!" These bites go well as a savory app to snack on before your main dish! (via Brit + Co.)
Keto Churro Cloud Bread
If you're avoiding cinnamon sugar cookies and churros after dinner, this cloud bread dessert is the next best thing. Plus it'll take you less than 30 minutes to make! (via Brit + Co.)
Keto Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
It's amazing how far a little almond meal and zucchini can go in place of bread and… well, more bread. This recipe is quick, low-carb, and oh-so filling for a weeknight dinner win. (via Brit + Co.)
Halibut en Papillote with Lemon, Mushrooms, and Toasted Sesame Oil
This healthy (and quite fancy) fish dish fills your kitchen with the aromas of ginger and toasted sesame oil— and it even makes halibut taste glamorous. (via The Clean Plate: Eat, Reset, Heal for Brit + Co.; photo via Ditte Isager)
Fennel Salad with Blood Orange, Thyme, and Toasted Walnuts
Say hello to one of the most creative salads you've probably ever seen. With oranges, fennel, thyme, and roasted walnuts, this meal is full of winter's bounty, but if it's hard to find some of the ingredients once the weather warms up, swap for some in-season toppings (like peaches) instead. (via Brit + Co.)
Paleo Shepherd's Pie
Don't let the cauliflower-mash topping turn you skeptical. This healthier take on a classic savory pie remains just as comforting with hearty ground beef and tender veggies. It's also flavored well with onion, cumin, coriander, and red pepper. (via Brit + Co.)
From Pizza To Salmon, We Have Plenty Of Low-Carb Recipe Ideas To Share
Keto Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Make these customizable “rice" bowls when you need to clear your fridge of odds and ends like leftover meat, vegetables, and condiments. (via Brit + Co.)
Keto Matcha Cheesecake
Low-carb recipes don't have to be boring, and this keto dessert proves it! Matcha and sugar-free chocolate chips are a true delight here. (via The Essential Instant Pot Keto Cookbookby Casey Thaler for Brit + Co.)
Bacon and Gruyère Sous Vide Egg Bites
Enjoy this Starbucks copycat recipe as a new breakfast fave without all the carbs. Don't worry though, this recipe still has all the bacon-y, cheesy goodness you could ever want! (via Brit + Co.)
Low-Carb Egg in a Basket
You won't miss the bread in this low-carb version of eggs in a hole, as its cauliflower-crust base tastes *just* like crisped cheese. (via Cali'Flour Kitchen for Brit + Co.)
Chocho Carrot Muffins
Chocho flour — which has been eaten in South American Andean communities for generations — is a great way to get in some of your favorite baked goods, without the same levels of carbs that you might find in more mainstream flours. (via Brit + Co.)
Mini Cloud Bread Pepperoni Pizzas
Cloud bread, a miracle mixture of baked eggs, cheese, and cream of tartar, satisfies the carb-y cravings of keto dieters everywhere. We like it best topped with pizza sauce, more cheese, and plenty of pepperoni. (via Brit + Co.)
Keto Ramen Zoodles
Swapping traditional noodles for zucchini noodles allows you to enjoy richly flavored ramen, crispy pork belly, jammy egg, and all, without the dreaded carb bloat. (via Brit + Co.)
Pan-Seared Fish with Buttery Caper Sauce
Use a pan-searing technique to cook your favorite lean fish, such as tilapia or striped bass. When a quick pan sauce of butter, capers, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs is involved, you really can't go wrong. (via Brit + Co.)
Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus
When you're craving garlic bread, whip up this insanely cheesy side dish instead. It gives you both a dose of greens and a ton of garlicky flavor. (via Cafe Delites for Brit + Co.)
Spaghetti Squash Pasta
Make three different pasta sauces — sugo, arugula pesto, and lemon ricotta — and you'll be excited to eat spaghetti squash all week. (via Brit + Co.)
Image via Rachel Mansfield
Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
Make a healthy lunch and save some cash when you make this yummy Sweetgreen copycat recipe. That's two thumb's up from us! (via Brit + Co.)
Blackened Chicken and Avocado Salad
This popular Pinterest salad gained fame for many reasons, but the tender 20-minute chicken on top might be the most compelling part. Indulge in this low-carb recipe for dinner any night of the week, since it's super easy to prepare. (via North South Blonde for Brit + Co.)
The Best Main Course, Side Dish, And Dessert Low-Carb Recipes To Cut Back On Carbs
Baked Almond-Crusted Cod
Skip your typical chicken breast in favor of this heart-healthy cod that's crusted with almonds and parmesan, and served with a lemony yogurt sauce. (via Brit + Co.)
Low-Carb Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
These babies, which feature smoked salmon, lemon, and dill, make for an amazing Easter brunch addition. (via Brit + Co.)
Keto Steak Cheese-Shell Tacos
The best part of this low-carb recipe (second to the crispy cheddartaco shells, of course) is the leftover taco-seasoned steak, which you can use to top salads, wraps, and other lunches later on. (via Brit + Co.)
Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas
This garlicky marinated shrimp dish needs just 8 minutes in the oven to form a hearty accompaniment to roasted peppers and onions, riced cauliflower, and any low-carb ingredient under the sun. This flavorful (and low-carb) bite will seriously blow you away. (via Brit + Co.)
Crispy Chicken Thighs with Honey-Lemon Pan Sauce
No part of flavorful chicken thighs goes to waste in this single-skillet dish, which makes a pan sauce from leftover chicken juices, butter, garlic, honey, and lemon juice. (via Brit + Co.)
Paleo Instant Pot Orange Chicken
You can make this healthy orange chicken faster than you could grab it from Panda Express. This diet-friendly version employs coconut sugar and orange zest to replicate the classic's citrusy sweetness, while arrowroot powder maintains the signature crispy crust. It's a classic in our arsenal of easy low-carb meals. (via Brit + Co.)
Ketotarian Alfredo Zoodles
This creamy zoodle dish, laden with a dairy-free macadamia-nut “alfredo" sauce, proves that a keto-vegetarian diet is both possible and delicious. (via Brit + Co.)
Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes
In lieu of French fries, try this baked and bacon-wrapped alternative. Not only are you cutting out the oil, but you're adding in some bacon, which is definitely an upside in our book. (via Brit + Co.)
Cauliflower Rice Sushi
If you're looking for something low-carb, you might be hesitant to try sushi, because of the rice that's inside. But there's an easy way to fix that — use cauliflower rice instead! (via Brit + Co.)
Smoked Salmon Poke Bites
Turn your go-to poke bowl into bite-sized goodies. They make for an awesome low-carb appetizer, or even an effective WFH snack if you need something filling to hold you over until lunchtime. (via Brit + Co.)
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Zucchini Noodles
Drift away to the Italian countryside with this vibrant dish of mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs. (via The Whole30 Slow Cooker for Brit + Co.; photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani)
Koufteh Ghelgheli
This Middle Eastern recipe is chock full of veggies and lamb meatballs. The flavor pairings of turmeric, pepper, and lemon are simple enough for a beginner cook, but are oh-so tasty. (via Brit + Co.)
Low Carb Meal Ideas To Cook For The Whole Family
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter
Serve this juicy chicken with roasted veggies or a low-carb salad for a healthy weeknight meal. (via Barley & Sage)
Super Green Sundried Tomato Herb Salad with Crispy Chickpeas
Shredded kale, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, carrots, and fresh herbs are generously tossed in a lemon vinaigrette and topped with crispy chickpeas, toasted pine nuts, feta, and avocado in this low-carb recipe. This pick makes for a great side salad, or you can enjoy it in bigger portions as a main course. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Low-Carb Bell Pepper Sandwiches
Hollow out a bell pepper, and stuff it with a cream cheese-mustard mix, as well as slices of your favorite deli meat and cheese. Load it with spinach, bacon, sprouts, cucumbers to craft a delicious, healthy meal — for really, whatever time of day you want. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Spicy Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Involtini
Ribbons of zucchini are rolled up with a pesto and ricotta cheese mixture, and baked in a herby red-pepper tomato sauce. Doesn't that sound so yum? Plus, this dish is super good for you! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry
This versatile stir fry is a great way to get some low-carb veggies into your diet. Swap the beef for chicken, or another easy protein like tofu. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Grilled Caprese Pesto Chicken Skewers
Grill up pesto chicken and cherry tomatoes, then serve with burrata cheese and fresh basil for some low-carb, late-summer meal perfection. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Slice up a zucchini, toss it in olive oil and spices, and pop it in the air fryer to get these crunchy zucchini chips. A low-carb snack is as easy as that! (via A Spicy Perspective)
Spicy Oregano Meatballs with Grilled Vegetables and Tzatziki
Spicy meatballs and grilled vegetables are tossed in lemon-herb vinaigrette and served with cooling, creamy tzatziki. This low-carb meal option will win everyone over! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Pesto Salmon
Salmon gets a nice crunch from the tiniest bit of panko breadcrumbs, while pesto gives it a burst of herby flavor. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Turkish Eggs
This low-carb breakfast, AKA çilbir (pronounced chil-bir), is a popular breakfast in Turkey that's made with poached eggs over creamy, garlicky yogurt, and drenched in a warm spicy butter. (via Forks & Foliage)
4-Cheese Roasted Garlic Alfredo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
Swap pasta for spaghetti squash and stuff it with béchamel sauce, sage, and roasted garlic. There's no other way to do it! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Chicken Fajitas
Why opt for takeout when you can make your own Mexican dishes at home? Begin with this easy fajitas recipe that doesn't skimp on healthy additions. (via Culinary Hill)
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
These baked meatballs make a great addition to any low-carb wraps or bowls you have planned. (via Bowl of Delicious)
Easy Carrot Pumpkin Soup
This warm bowl of soup is so fitting for the fall season. When you need a comfort meal, this low-carb dish comes in hot with flavor. (via The Fast Recipe)
Greek Chicken Bowls
The Mediterranean diet is a great gateway to get into eating low-carb. Start with this recipe first! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)
Sheet Pan Lemon Dill Salmon with Baby Bok Choy
The lemon and dill included in this recipe pair like a dream with baby bok choy. When you want something healthy yet fancy, reach for this dish. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)
Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza with Roasted Onion Cream
Just look at this low-carb recipe. It's delish AF, thanks to the healthy crust, spicy cauliflower, and creamy onion sauce that you could either dip into or drizzle on your pie. (via The First Mess)
Loaded Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
Cauliflower takes on the role of potatoes in this mash recipe that gets saturated in melty cheese! Yum! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
Easy Vegan Ratatouille
Whether you enjoy this low-carb recipe as a side dish or a main course, it's going to deliver on texture and flavor. (via A Virtual Vegan)
One-Skillet Sesame Mango Chicken
One skillet? That means we're in. This simple low-carb recipe is great for low-carb eaters, especially when you pair it with your favorite veggie! (via Averie Cooks)
Low-Carb Lasagna Stuffed Peppers
Get ready to go in on these stuffed peppers. They hold a handful of nutritious ingredients, from ground beef to spinach. (via The Girl On Bloor)
Korean Cauliflower Wings
These cauliflower wings carry a savory-sweet flavor that's sure to satisfy – low-carb style. (via The Edgy Veg)
Vegan Tomato Zucchini Casserole
This easy-to-make casserole is packed with fiber, but is still low on carbs. Using fresh tomatoes and zucchinis will help you achieve that tender, flavorful texture that's great for feeding a crowd. (via Give Recipe)
Low-Carb Mock Potato Salad
This healthy dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks alike! It replaces potatoes with non-starchy cauliflower, but still retains all the flavor. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
Korean Cauliflower Wings
These vibrant vegetarian wings make all other low-carb recipes look drab. The soy-BBQ-garlic sauce is just to die for! (via The Edgy Veg)
Cheesy Sausage + Egg Muffins
You'll always want a batch of these savory low-carb bites on hand to snack on between meals! (via Averie Cooks)
Find more easy low-carb meals, keto cocktails, and keto-friendly dessert ideas by checking out Brit + Co's Food page. Join our newsletter for more recipes and inspiration!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
The Holiday movie is an absolute unicorn. Not only does it capture the Christmas magic I want to feel during ~the holiday~ season (and features an all-star cast with Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black, and Kate Winslet), but it's also an amazing rom-com and compelling family story. Each relationship, both platonic and romantic, is compelling, and it'll make you feel just about every emotion: glee, heartbreak, yearning. And I'm convinced that, in addition to an absolutely bulletproof script from our queen Nancy Meyers, the movie's magic can be chalked up to one other thing: the fact they filmed the final scene of the movie first.
What happened at the end of The Holiday?
Image via Sony Pictures
Yes, you read that right — they filmed the final scene of The Holiday before they filmed anything else! The final scene of the movie takes place at Jude Law's Graham's house in England during the characters' New Year's Eve party. The four leads, and Graham's daughters, are dancing, having fun, and celebrating the new year together. In an interview with Vulture, Miffy Englefield (who plays one of Graham's daughters) talks about how filming that party first set the stage for the rest of production.
"That’s the one scene in the film that all of the main characters are together," she says. "So it was a really, really nice starting point for us to be able to get to know each other...It was the loveliest first day I’ve ever had."
Miffy continues that since she was so young when they filmed the movie, she didn't really understand who she was working with. "My dad was really good at showing me [Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, and Kate Winslet's] work and more underground things that they’d done. He wanted me to realize they were humans and not just these actors."
Is Jude Law's Graham divorced in The Holiday?
Image via Sony Pictures/YouTube
Even though Miffy didn't necessarily know Jude Law before working with him, they grew closer throughout the process of filming. When Amanda shows up to Graham's house, she learns (as do we) that he isn't divorced — he's a widower. That's why he hadn't asked Amanda over before, and why he always answers the phone when Sophie or Olivia call. They're not other women in his life, they're his daughters!
The evening Amanda spends with Graham and his daughters is one of the standout moments of the film because it shows a whole new side of Graham, but it also allows the girls (and Jude Law, TBH) to take center stage.
Why is Jack Black in The Holiday?
Image via Sony Pictures/YouTube
While she wasn't familiar with all her costars in The Holiday, there was one actor Miffy Englefield recognized when she got to set, and that was Jack Black ("I think at that point it was when it hit me like, 'Oh goodness, this is like a thing. This is real, this is real life.'").
Even though Nancy Myers had written the role of Miles for Jack Black, he was hesitant to be in a rom-com. That is, until he realized he would get to work with Kate Winslet!
“I saw School Of Rock and thought he was the cutest guy and fell in love with him," Nancy told IndieLondon in a 2006 interview. “I assured him that I had [seen his work] and told him that I thought he was fabulous and that he’d be in a movie with Kate Winslet. He just said ‘yeah.’”
And I am literally so glad he did because Miles is my favorite part of the movie! His quirky kindness and fun personality are definitely a reason The Holiday is so successful. Another reason? The chemistry between all the actors. Thanks to the energy and community on set for the final scene — which, TBH, I'd never have known was the first scene filmed! — the rest of the movie has that same kind of giddy electricity you feel when you reunite with your best friends or host your first adult party or finally visit New York City during the holidays.
Because just like the party scene is a celebration, The Holiday is about unexpected love and finding joy despite the most heartbreaking, mundane experiences. And *that* is the true magic of Christmas, isn't it?
Did you know The Holiday's end was filmed at the beginning? What's your favorite moment of the movie? Let us know on Facebook!
Lead image via Sony Pictures/YouTube
This post has been updated.
Gingerbread houses are classic and cute, but they can be a bit of a hassle to put together. If you still want a decorative dessert that won't take all day — or all of your sanity — to set up, these 3D Gingerbread Cookie Trees are the perfect option! Here's everything you'll need to make this festive treat, plus how to make them!
Ingredients
- pre-made gingerbread cookie dough
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 teaspoons milk or cream
- 1 egg white
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- sprinkles and sugar pears for decorating
- flour for dusting
- piping bag and piping tip
Directions
1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line baking sheet(s) with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour. Roll out the pre-made gingerbread cookie dough to about 1/4-inch to 1/8-inch thick.
3. Use cookie cutters to cut out two cookies per size, per tree.
4. Carefully transfer the cookie dough to the baking sheets.
5. Bake for about 8 – 10 minutes or until the cookies just barely start to crisp around the edges.
6. Let cookies rest on a wire rack until cool, then pair up each cookie with one of equal size.
7. Repeat with remaining cookie dough.
8. Meanwhile, make the filling by mixing the butter until smooth.
9. With the mixer on low, gradually add in two cups of the powdered sugar, vanilla and milk.
10. Once incorporated, mix on medium-high until smooth and fluffy.
11. Spread the filling on the bottom of one of the cookies from each pair. Sandwich the cookies together and set aside.
12. To make the decorative royal icing, mix the egg white with a whisk attachment until foamy.
13. Gradually add in the remaining 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, then turn the mixer up to medium-high.
14. Continue to mix on medium-high until fairly stiff and opaque in color.
15. Add in the lemon juice and mix until combined.
16. Fill a piping bag, fitted with a plain round piping tip, with the royal icing.
17. Decorate the tops of each cookie with the royal icing and toppings.
18. Using the royal icing as “glue” to stack together each tree, using one cookie sandwich in each size. Top the cookie tree with a star standing upright, if desired.
For even more holiday inspo, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!
Header image via Brit+Co
Olivia Rodrigois currently carrying on the expensive legacy of celebrity smoothies. She recently announced a new collaboration with cult grocer, Erehwon, to release a gut-focused smoothie. The drink, appropriately named “good 4 ur GUTS,” celebrates her sophomore album, but also combats those tummy aches you’re being so brave about.
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The Olivia Rodrigo Erewhon smoothie is in fact, good 4 u, and will leave you lookin’ happy and healthy because it’s packed full of gut-healthy ingredients.
According to Mashed, the drink contains Health-Ade Pomegranate Kombucha, strawberries, blueberries, mango, acai, Sprout Living Epic Protein Chocolate Maca Cacao Powder, SIBU Sea Buckthorn Puree (what is buckthorn, actually?), ION Gut Support, avocado, Minor Figures Oatmilk, Nature Nate's Pure Organic Honey, dates, and coconut whip.
Image via Erewhon
The $18 smoothie came out in Erewhon stores on December 15, and despite its high ticket price, sippers like Vulture’s Anusha Praturu are saying its tummy-healing properties are pretty legit. Whether you don’t live near Erewhon or are simply curious about making the good 4 ur GUTS at home, be forewarned – the exact ingredients alone will cost you about $182. Here’s a lil’ Erewhon-coded shopping list for you:
- Health-Ade Pomegranate Kombucha ($4.49)
- Strawberries ($10.99)
- Blueberries ($8.99)
- Mango ($3.99)
- Acai ($9.99)
- Sprout Living Epic Protein Chocolate Maca Cacao Powder($28.31)
- SIBU Sea Buckthorn Puree($41.99)
- ION Gut Support ($32)
- Avocado ($3.99)
- Minor Figures Oatmilk ($4.99)
- Nature Nate's Pure Organic Honey ($16.12)
- Dates ($8.49)
- Coconut whip ($6.99)
If you do find yourself at the ever-luxurious Erewhon to try Olivia’s smoothie, you can feel delighted that some of the proceeds from its sales go to the star’s non-profit, Fund 4 Good.
"[Fund 4 Good’s] initiative is to raise awareness for certain groups that are championing women's issues in America and all of the other territories I'm going to. I'm very excited, and I think it's going to be a very fulfilling and hopefully productive experience," Rodrigo told People in October. "Lots of the money is going to abortion funds to help provide some resources to people who are in need of reproductive healthcare."
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Lead image via Erewhon; photo by Frazer Harrison / Getty Images.
The most notable news from our resident popstar BFF Taylor Swift (aside from her record-breaking Eras Tour movie, of course) is her most recent boyfriend update. Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift were first linked after Travis tried to give the singer his phone number during one of her concerts this year. And after a few NFL games, getaway car rides, and restaurant takeovers later, it looks like this potential relationship isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Here's a timeline on everything we know about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's potential relationship!
A Timeline Of Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce's Relationship
Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images
September, 24 2023 - Taylor Swift Started Attending Kansas City Chiefs Games
Taylor Swift started attending Kansas City Chiefs games this year, seemingly after an indirect invite from Travis Kelce himself. When Taylor played her Eras Tour at Arrowhead Stadium (the Chiefs' home stadium), Travis tried to give her a friendship with his number on it.
“I was disappointed that she doesn’t talk before or after her shows because she has to save her voice for the 44 songs that she sings,” Travis told his brother after Jason during an episode of their New Heights podcast. “I was a little butt hurt I didn’t get to hand her one of the bracelets I made for her.”
Considering Taylor Swift has now gone to a few Chiefs games — and nearly broken the internet — we're pretty sure he's not upset anymore!
On September 24, Taylor Swift watched the NFL game with Travis' mom Donna. After the football game on September 24 — in which Taylor sat with Travis Kelce's mom, Donna, and created (another) pop culture phenomenon with a single photo — not only did Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leave the Arrowhead Stadium locker room together, but they also drove away in Travis' convertible!
Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images
October 1, 2023 - Taylor Brought Some Friends To Watch The Chiefs
On October 1, she was joined by all-star BFF's Sabrina Carpenter, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Sophie Turner, and Hugh Jackman to watch the Chiefs play against the New York Jets. While Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift didn't leave the stadium together after *this* game was over, the fact that Taylor was surrounded by so many of her friends feels like they're there to support something special.
And we'd be remiss not to mention a few easter eggs while we're at it! This feels so much like a callback to Taylor's 1989 era, where she spent a ton of 2013-2015 hanging with her friends in the coolest NYC spots. Plus, the fact she's wearing all black (and some edgy accessories on her shorts) while we all speculate on what she's up to and who she's dating, not too dissimilar from her Reputation era. 👀
Image via Jamie Squire/Getty Images
October 12, 2023 — Taylor Swift Makes A Good First Impression
We know Taylor always tries to make a good impression (hello "Mirrorball!"), but it turns out, she also makes a good impression without even trying.
The first time Taylor met Travis Kelce's dad Ed, he noticed how genuine she was when she started helping around the suite. “She gets up to go get a drink or somethin,g and she starts picking up empty bottles, cans, plates that are scattered around," he tells People. “And I'm just thinking, 'I don't think she got the diva memo. She didn't get the spoiled musician. She doesn't know how to pull that off.' And that really to me said a whole lot.”
Photo by: Will Heath/NBC
October 14, 2023 - Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Were On SNL
Yes, Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce were both on the October 14 episode of Saturday Night Live. The couple attended the SNL afterparty together and fans were very quick to spot how much the football player took care of the singer. He opened her door, made sure she was okay, and reportedly even told a bodyguard that he could step aside. When I first saw the images, they looked so much like a rom-com cover to me that I thought they were photoshopped!
Then on Sunday night, Travis and Taylor were seen in New York City again as they made their way into a restaurant (once again holding hands!). It might be important for Swifties to note that both of Taylor's outfits are black, edgy, and very Reputation...I can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve!
Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images
October 19, 2023 Travis Apparently Plans To Visit Taylor On Her International Tour
ETreported that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are "all in" on this relationship, according to a source. They told the outlet that Travis intends to head to Buenos Aires, Argentina while he's on a bye-week for the Kansas City Chiefs. We hope he's able to give her those friendship bracelets this time! 😘
Image via Jamie Squire/Getty Images
October 22, 2023 - Taylor Swift Is Improving Travis Kelce's Game
After the 31-17 win on October 22, Kansas City Chiefs' coach Andy Reid mentioned how much Taylor's influencing Travis' game during a press conference. He notes that Travis' performance is only improving and that “Taylor can stay around all she wants.”
Image via @chiara_ / Instagram
The October 22 game also appears to be the couple's official hard launch. Mecole Hardman Jr.'s girlfriend Chariah Gordon posted a series of photos with Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce after the game — including this one where Taylor's kissing Travis on the cheek! Swoon!
Image via David Eulitt/Getty Images
October 31 — Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Celebrate Halloween Together
On an episode of Jason Kelce's New Heights podcast, Travis said he loves the idea of a dinner party on Halloween night. "Like a Halloween dinner party. Everybody comes in costumes and we have a party," he says in the conversation.
But he also refuses to admit what costume he picked. "I'm gonna let mine be a surprise," he says. "I'll make sure everybody sees it, and we'll talk about it after Halloween."
They haven't posted their costumes yet, but we can't wait to see the final looks!
Image via David Eulitt/Getty Images
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship only continues to get deeper, especially since a source told ET Online that Taylor could be the one for Travis: "Everyone close to Travis loves that he is happy. He is on the path to finding that special person in Taylor."
However, given the frenzy around Taylor, and the media coverage of their relationship in general, Travis' family is also concerned for their safety. (And after hundreds of fans showed up uninvited to see Taylor attend a private wedding, we kind of are too, TBH).
"They're so appreciative of their fans, but hope to keep some aspects of their relationship private going forward," the source continues. "This level of stardom is something new to Travis, and although he can handle it, he is still getting used to it. Safety is a major concern among everyone, especially given how passionate fans feel about their relationship."
Image via David Eulitt/Getty Images
November 5 — Taylor Swift (Virtually) Celebrates Travis Kelce's New Record
After the Kansas City Chiefs game on November 5, People posted on Instagram celebrating Travis Kelce's new title as the KC Chiefs' leading receiver with 10,941 receiving yards. Taylor Swift liked the post, and considering she's very strategic and intentional about her Instagram activity, Swifites were very excited.
"Me giggling cuz TS liked this post," one user commented. "It’s an interesting time for Taylor & Kelcem" another said. "They are both at supremely high career success points. What joy!"
On November 9, a source told US Weekly that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce “actually spend a lot of one-on-one time together and have developed a very real connection," plus the fact that "they have very detailed plans coming up on how to stay together while she’s on tour and he has games.”
Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
November 11 — Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Have Their Own Rom-Com Moment
On November 11, Taylor changed the lyrics of "Karma" from "Karma is the guy on the screen coming straight home to me" to "Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me" (a move that seemed somewhat spontaneous considering how surprised her backup dancers were!!). Travis reveals on the November 15 episode of his New Heights podcastthat he had a "little bit of a clue" she'd change the lyrics.
"Definitely when I heard it come out of her mouth, [it] still shocked me," he says. "I was like...'Oh, she really just said that, alright.'" He was so shocked in fact, that he didn't even realize Taylor's dad was trying to high five him. "Mr. Swift, I apologize big guy," he continues. "I never miss a high five too, big high five guy!"
And after the show, Taylor went straight up to Travis standing outside a tent and the coupleshared a kiss. It felt like it was straight out of a rom-com — a popstar running up to a star football player and surprising him with a kiss. The crowds in person went wild, but the internet also can't stop talking about it!
"This is sooooo adorable," one X user said. "Her little run. His hands behind his back like he’s waiting for his prom date or something. Ughhh they’re both in deep."
Image via Dustin Satloff/Getty Images
November 20 — Travis Kelce Spills On His Relationship In WSJ Magazine
Travis Kelce once again breaks the internet with his WSJ Magazine cover story. He talks about football, his family, and (of course) Taylor Swift. “I’ve never been a man of words. Being around her, seeing how smart Taylor is, has been f*cking mind-blowing," he says. “Obviously I’ve never dated anyone with that kind of aura about them….But at the same time, I’m not running away from any of it….She’s just living, enjoying life. When she acts like that I better not be the one acting all strange.”
Even Mama Kelce had something to add! “I can tell you this,” she says in the interview. “He’s happier than I’ve seen him in a long time…. God bless him, he shot for the stars!”
Fans are also hoping to find out Taylor and Travis are spending Thanksgiving together. Via Page Six, Taylor will fly back from her Eras Tour in Rio de Janeiro to spend the holiday in the States before heading back for another show on November 24. And TMZ reports that the couple "plans to be together for the holidays," which includes lining their schedules up to spend as much time together as they can.
Taylor celebrated another one of Travis' milestones on Instagram, when she liked a post from the Kansas City Chiefs. "Fastest tight end to 11k receiving yards AND the only player in franchise history to do it," the post says. According to a Daily Mail source, as soon as Taylor Swift's Eras Tour wrapped up its 2023 dates, she's moved into Travis' private Kansas City mansion (which he reportedly bought for them to spend time together) for the duration of her break — which includes her birthday and Christmas. Here's hoping we see her at another KC Chiefs game soon!
Image via Stacy Revere/Getty Images
December 3 — Taylor Shows Up To The Chiefs Game Looking Festive
Taylor Swift hung out in a box with Brittany Mahomes in Green Bay, Wisconsin during the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Green Bay Packers. Not only is Taylor Swift's jacket KC Chiefs red, but it's also totally Christmas appropriate! "Travis' friends think this is the real deal for him,” an insider told Peopleat the end of November. “They're still a little shocked by all of it — that he's dating the Taylor Swift, but they've seen how down to earth she is with his friends and family.”
But before Taylor donned her Elmo-approved red coat, the couple was already in the Christmas spirit. They showed up to Miracle, a pop-up bar in Kansas City, on December 1, for the Chiefs' holiday party. It appears they were wearing some festive sweatshirts (as well as Taylor's signature red lip). Here's hoping they also got to have some more chicken with seemingly ranch.
Photographs by Inez and Vinoodh for TIME
December 6 — Taylor Talks Travis In Her TIME Person Of The Year Article
There's been pleeeeeenty of speculation about when Taylor and Travis actually started dating. Was it that first Chiefs game? Were they just friends still? Was it before that game? While only the lovebirds know their true timeline, Taylor gave us a peek behind the curtain in her TIME MagazinePerson of the Year article.
According to Tay herself, the pair started hanging out immediately after Travis first mentioned her on his New Heights podcast. She said, “We started hanging out right after that. So we actually had a significant amount of time that no one knew, which I’m grateful for, because we got to get to know each other. By the time I went to that first game, we were a couple. I think some people think that they saw our first date at that game? We would never be psychotic enough to hard launch a first date.”
Swift continued by explaining that she and Travis "show up for each other" and that they're "just proud of each other." BRB, sobbing.
On December 8, an insider told Life & Style Mag that Travis is planning something special for Taylor's 34th birthday on December 13. “Travis has something special planned,” they say. “He’s arranged a very intimate romantic dinner just for the two of them, and is also trying to pull off a semi-surprise party with the help of some of her closest friends."
The insider also says Travis could use the evening to propose to Taylor, which we would *totally* be in favor of.
Image via @patty_cuts on Instagram
December 10 — Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Share Some Swoon-Worthy PDA
After the KC Chiefs and Buffalo Bills game on Sunday December 10, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce went out with the team to celebrate. They wound up back at the Miracle pop-up bar, which is still just as (if not even more) festive than it was before! The evening was sure to lift Travis' spirits after the Chiefs' loss, and I, for one, need to make Taylor's Christmapolitan drink ASAP.
Thanks to the Chiefs' barber @patty_cuts, we also have a pic of Taylor and Travis embracing each other! If you ask me, this deserves to be a movie poster because I feel like we're living in a real-life rom-com. And apparently, one of their friends agrees!
"We had an amazing time," Chetarah Jackson (a friend of Travis' who sat with Taylor in the suite at the game) tells Entertainment Tonight. "Taylor and Travis are so in love. It was so cute seeing them together and I can see them getting married."
Image via Maddie Meyer/Getty Images
December 17 — Taylor Swift Gets Cozy At The Chiefs x Eagles Game
Taylor Swift showed up to the KC Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles game looking both comfy and cute in a Chiefs sweatshirt and beanie (and her iconic red lipstick, of course). In addition to Alana Haim and Brittany Mahomes, Taylor's dad Scott Swift also showed up to the game, which ended up being a big deal because he wore KC Chiefs gear instead of Philadelphia Eagles gear like he usually does. 👀
Scott isn't the only one having fun with the couple! Kaleigh Teller (Miles Teller's wife and a good friend of Taylor Swift) recently liked a TikTok speculating Travis got Taylor a very special birthday present: the ring Taylor wore during her party. It appears to be an opal stone surrounded by blue topaz, and if that's true, it has so much meaning because Travis' birthstone is opal and Taylor's is blue topaz! Thoughtful gifts are our absolute favorites...and it looks like they're Travis' too.
So, what's the relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce?
Image via Elsa/Getty Images
According to Taylor herself (via an interview with Time), the pair started seeing each other right after Travis "called her out" on his New Heights podcast in July.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship continues to get more serious. “They share a strong work ethic and have a huge appreciation for life and their careers, strong family bond and values," the insider tells People.
An insider also shares that during Taylor's break from the Eras Tour (during September and October), she enjoyed catching up with all of her friends and “had fun spending time with Travis.“ We cannot get enough of this couple!
How old is Taylor Swift and how old is Travis Kelce?
Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were born in 1989. Travis just turned 34 on October 5 and since Taylor Swift's birthday is December 13, she's 34 now, too! After Travis and Taylor left Arrowhead Stadium together, some Swifties noticed Travis was wearing a blue and white set, and wondered whether it served as a 1989 (Taylor's Version) double release Easter egg.
Check back here for the latest update on Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce!
Lead photo by Elsa/Getty Images