You Can Conjure Up A Little Magic This Season With These Winter Foods

how to make magic with winter foods

Winter brings a chill to the air, long nights, and a delightfully cozy feeling, which means that food just becomes somehow more delicious, more amazing, more nourishing. It’s as if the lights go up, the sun goes down, and the warmth of our homes calls in some yummy spirits to bless our meals with their delightful magic, granting every morsel and bite an extra oomph — and I’m so here for it! From the delectable pastries to the simmering stews to every sip of that coffee, winter brings some of the most comforting food.

However, as a witch, I also find winter — and its food — to be filled with magic. The Winter Solstice (December 21) is longest night of the year, helping us find the rest we need to shine brightly as the sun begins to strengthen. Winter teaches us to wait and see, and to enjoy the rest and the comfort of the darkness, so that we have enough energy for the ebullience of Spring and Summer.

Winter being a time of both food and magic is perfect for bringing enchantment into the mundane, and allowing for every day activities to become something more special and intentional. With this in mind, let’s explore some common winter food spices and see how we can incorporate them to bring some magic into our lives!

Cinnamon

Photo by Studio 31 / PEXELS

Cinnamon is the quintessential cozy spice, warm and rich and full of fire. We can practically feel it on our tongues and in our hearts as soon as the first nip comes into the air. With cinnamon, that heat can be used for intentions of creativity and passion — when we’re feeling like we need an extra push or excitement, cinnamon can provide it just at the right time. Cinnamon is also full of luck and success, so bring it out when you’re feeling in a bind or like too many black cats have been crossing your road!

To use cinnamon magically, try sprinkling some in your morning coffee and feeling yourself filled with passion for the day. As you’re making your way through the day, feel the success and luck that you were so intent on at the start of the day carry you through whatever the hours may bring!

For more ways to incorporate cinnamon into your daily diet, check out our cinnamon recipes! And if you're wanting to go a more decadent route, don't forget our cinnamon roll recipes, too!

Nutmeg

Photo by Vladimir Gladkov / PEXELS

Nutmeg, which is neither a nut nor related to Megara from Hercules 😉, has a sweet, warm, earthy flavor that goes well with all sorts of our favorite winter desserts. Nutmeg is ideal for increasing our own psychic powers, as its mystical aroma enhances our ability to see the unseen. Nutmeg is also used as a money attractor, so as you recover from the holiday spending, use nutmeg to bring in all of the money you might need (or at least some of it, big spender!).

For a potent use of nutmeg, sprinkle a tiny bit some on some spinach as you’re cooking to attract money. Spinach, green like the cash you’re looking for, will soak up the vibes of the nutmeg and help your wallet overflow!

Check out this recipe for eggnog french toast to have some nutmeg and another dose of the holiday season!

Clove

Photo by john phyo / PEXELS

Clove already looks powerful, with its spiky appearance eerily similar to nails, so its magic is easy to see. Clove is spicy and sweet, with a woodsy scent that immediately evokes chillier climates and warms the heart. Clove bringsprotection in magic, keeping the bad vibes at bay and shielding you from any psychic or emotional harm that may be coming your way. Clove also helps with love and making it stick.

Bring some protection into your home by making a pomander with orange and cloves. Decide on a pattern (I personally like stripes from tip to tip), then use a toothpick to make some holes in the orange where you’ll stick the cloves. Place it in a doorway that people use frequently, and let its magic keep any negativity out of your space!

Wanna reap the benefits of clove's magic and make your house smell nice? Try our simmer pot recipes!

Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA / PEXELS

Of course, you can combine these spices together into delicious pastries, or find them already placed into the cookies we share all throughout the holiday season. Using spices as a part of my magical practice has allowed my kitchen witchery to flourish, and will definitely bring an even bigger sense of enchantment into your own life this winter. May the spices of winter warm your heart, protect your home, and bless you with their potent magic!

Looking for more ways to make magic in the kitchen? Brit+Co has all your recipe needs covered.

Header image via EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA / PEXELS

As the great Carl Sagan stated, "The cosmos is within us. We are made of star stuff. We are a way for the universe to know itself." The planets shift within moments in time, and we, too, reflect these rhythms in our unique way. It can place challenging yet enlightening moments in our lives. Astrology has given me this sense of peace in knowing what I can do to help best prepare me for those struggling moments in life and also reassured me. These hardcore moments, however, made me the person I am now, sharing the cosmic intel. In reading this, I hope you will find the peace, comfort, and inspiration to follow your stars. In my journey, I've discovered that in moments you believe you're lost, you're interweaving your unique constellation. With all this said, let's look at this upcoming New Moon in Taurus and see what's in store for you. Read for your sun, moon, and rising signs for extended insight!

What To Expect For The Taurus New Moon In 2024

Photo by Maria Orlova/PEXELS

This New Moon in Taurus brings a soothing sense of calm and stability, perfect for grounding and setting intentions.

This is the perfect opportunity to unlock your inner sage. Get that yoga mat out and begin that meditation practice you have been wondering about — and don't forget to use an aroma therapy diffuser to amp up your experience! Besides Pluto beginning its retrograde dance, it's a calm week in the cosmos, and what better time than now? The best part is that we can look forward to the New Moon in Taurus on May 7th, meaning that we're officially out of the eclipse fog from last month, along with Mercury retrograde. Phew. It will be steadily calm and attract a new flow of centeredness within your consciousness. There is serene magic in the air, and you cannot help but feel grace and composure. Get acquainted with earth-based practices such as crystal work, smudging your home, or becoming a plant parent.

Also, an overflow of earth energy (grand earth trine and stellium) will enable us to ground down our ideas. Venus, alongside Jupiter and Uranus, is trailing this New Moon. Although Taurus is seen as fixed and stagnant in energy, we can use this secure sign to our advantage when it involves our long-term ventures - romantically or life-purpose. This grand earth trine includes the asteroids Lilith in Virgo (the shadow feminine/magic) and Ceres in Capricorn (the earth mother/resources), along with the New Moon in Taurus (beauty and finances). This cosmic trio will promote a peaceful interchange of groundedness and realistic expectations that involve our long-term visions. It's also a powerful time to manifest our dreams. These earth goddesses will give you a clearer vision of what you truly want while you receive a download of information regarding the steps toward success. It's also a fantastic time to renew your vows or create that dating profile with Venus, the love planet, embodied in her sign, which means that our senses will be heightened and the romantic mood will be lit.

Friendly suggestion: Have a date with yourself, book a photoshoot, or visit the salon because your beauty will magnify and reflect in your aura. You may get lucky with Venus on your side.

This power day will also have support and backing from Saturn, the planet of structure and disciplines. With Saturn in Pisces, the line of structure involves our long-term dreams and addressing our past karma. You must face your past and address the missteps or unresolved matters to move forward in your journey. The great news is that this New Moon will be in a supportive position with Saturn, and this will grant you acceptance and resolution involving past dealings. You'll feel steady and ready to move forward. This aspect encourages discipline, responsibility, and practicality in your process. Use this energy to focus on long-term goals and take practical steps towards your ambitions. Once you remove that cosmic baggage (I'm sure you will at this point), it will awaken your magical self, and you will attract results.

New Moon In Taurus Horoscopes For Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs

Aries

This lunation will bring a flow of centeredness and certainty regarding the next steps in your journey. The New Moon in your 2nd house will help you see your wants and needs. Take a moment to pause and reflect on your deepest desires and aspirations. What truly brings you joy and fulfillment? Slow down and reconnect with your inner self. Saturn in your 12th house will help you see your past patterns (subconsciously) and grant you the grace to let go and rebuild your self-worth. Use this lunar energy to set intentions for nurturing your sense of security and stability. Whether financial goals, inner work, or cultivating a sense of belonging, trust that the Universe supports your journey toward manifesting abundance in all its forms. You will see the results when you make peace with the past. You are strong.

Taurus

This cosmic alignment is like a fresh breeze sweeping your life, bringing a renewed sense of purpose and vitality. With the New Moon in your sign (lucky you) along with Venus, your aura will magnify in the best way possible. Use this time to plant seeds of intention that align with your confidence. What do you truly want to manifest in your life? Whether pursuing your passions, nurturing your relationships, or investing in your personal growth, the time is now to believe in the magic the Universe can grant. With all this earth energy on your side, you have endless support from networks and friends who will cheer you on. Factor in your dreams and aspirations and get ready to witness its progression. Let your light shine bright.

Gemini

Saturn will place a challenge to your personal beliefs, but is it a challenge? Perhaps it's an opportunity to explore your journey's root cause of stagnation. As the New Moon phases into your 12th, it will enable you to step back from the hustle culture and carve out moments of stillness and introspection. This is a period for you to reflect on what truly matters. You will reach a breakthrough regarding what's holding you back from achieving your dreams. Become open-minded and curious (this is your jam). Use this lunar energy to recharge your spiritual batteries and set intentions for inner peace and emotional well-being. Whether through meditation, journaling, or simply spending time in nature, trust that this cosmic alignment guides you toward a more profound sense of connection and clarity. Approach life like a child.

Cancer

Get ready to root down your aspirations and strengthen your connections, Cancer. This New Moon will power up your opportunity to build your dreams. If that book idea or business venture has been placed on hold, now is the time to build from the ground up. Nothing else can stand in your way if you store passion in your core. With Saturn positioned in your 9th house, you have the strength to get started. This is also a fantastic time to nurture your present connections or connect with your soul family that will cherish your devotedness. Nonprofit work or getting involved with causes will also attract serendipitous connections that can lead to your soul's fulfillment. Be open, and you will see the magic unfold. You are ready.

Leo

This lunar event will allow you to align with your long-term goals and public standing. The New Moon in Taurus, Venus, and Uranus will ignite inspiration and the grit to start anew or at least become bold in your approach. With Saturn residing in your resources and intimacy sector of life, it's time to get serious and begin planting your intentions involving these matters, and this requires you to hold still and analyze your inner world. Arrange a sit down with your partner or have a quiet moment to attract clarity. You will understand how to steer your professional path with determination and, most importantly, become more aligned with your heart. If you're feeling any sense of doubt in your direction, (don't) Venus will give you that dash of confidence, making it a magical moment for you to get what you want. Wear your crown proudly.

Virgo

The world will be your oyster Virgo. These past few weeks have been intense; expect a second wind approaching. This New Moon will allow you to step into a new paradigm or venture. Take a class or start your meditation practice. With the moon taking place in your 9th house, you're in for a new awakening that involves your personal beliefs and vision. As a fellow earth sign like Taurus, your manifestation abilities will level up, and you will get ready to take the reins and take charge of your ventures. There is an opportunity to strengthen or form a love connection with Saturn, who supports you fully. Arrange a discussion or send that text message to clear the air. Observe what gets you excited or inspired, which jumpstarts things for you. Trust your gut.

Libra

Inner work is in store, with the New Moon phasing into your 8th house, it invites you to retreat. Meanwhile, Saturn's continued rein in your 6th house prompts a reevaluation of your daily rituals and health practices. Take this opportunity to refine your routines, prioritizing self-care and vitality. Whether single or in a relationship, this lunar event will ignite self-discovery and inner growth. Dedicate time to nurturing your relationship with yourself through self-love practices like meditation or journaling. This New Moon will be reflective but helpful for learning the importance of honoring your emotional depth and well-being. Believe in yourself.

Scorpio

Love approaches as this New Moon occurs in your 7th house of partnerships and commitment. Single or taken, you will feel a stirring in your heart filled with hope as love can be felt in every connection you make. Friends, family, or lovers, you will understand the roots of your love story and be given the antidote to break free from the past and start anew. This is your chance to manifest your dream partnership or breathe new life into your current relationship. Have a date with yourself or with your friends to open your heart. Saturn will also help you learn how to discern your connections and enable you to see what boundaries or structures need setting. Trust in the flow of genuine love and let your heart guide you towards the connection you deserve. Ah, l'amour!

Sagittarius

Get ready to feel renewal as the New Moon powers up your 6th house of health and daily routines. Whatever is weighing you down in your daily life (physically or energetically), you will understand its root cause. Breaking free from toxic work environments or prioritizing your self-care will help you embrace healthier habits that nourish your mind, body, and spirit self. Book a spa day or get your aura photo taken. Meanwhile, Saturn's influence in your 4th house of home and family prompts you to find a balance between work and personal life. Schedule downtime and connect emotionally with loved ones to strengthen your emotional connections and well-being. Clear out and rejuvenate.

Capricorn

Let your hair down and embrace your wild side, Capricorn. With the New Moon lighting up your 5th house of dating, children, and creativity, you hold a lot of cosmic support in these ventures. Create a dating profile or reignite the fires of your current relationship; this is your chance to feel love in its purest form. You're also supported if you're considering starting a family (this lunation will give you the green light). Saturn, your ruler planet, will emphasize the importance of practicality and clear communication this week. Although playful and fun, use this lunation to ground your long-term goals and plans, ensuring they are realistic and achievable. By articulating your ideas effectively, you will feel confident in your plans, setting the stage for success. Cheers to you!

Aquarius

Slow down and observe your family life, as the New Moon in your 4th house will inspire you to reconnect with your loved ones while also analyzing your stance on your connection. Prioritizing downtime and reconnecting with your family roots will create healing for unresolved issues. It's also a fantastic opportunity to renovate your home or relocate to a place that will nourish your soul. This week, Saturn will encourage you to take a grounded approach to your financial endeavors. Use this time to assess your financial situation and cultivate confidence in managing money effectively. Consider long-term investments and business ventures, and focus on budgeting more strategically to achieve your financial goals per your plans. You got this.

Pisces

Have you been in hermit mode lately, Pisces? Get ready for a wave of creative inspiration and confidence, as the New Moon in your 3rd house will grant you a new flow of ideas. This alignment will allow you to start a new venture that aligns with your passion. Saturn's presence in your 1st house supports you in getting serious about your goals and aspirations. By preserving your energy and building solidity in your approach to life, you'll find more excellent stability and success in all areas of your life. Trust in your ability to articulate your thoughts and beliefs, and allow yourself to step into the spotlight confidently. Use this influence to discern where you invest your energy, focusing on activities and relationships that align with your long-term vision. Something magical is brewing.

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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A Cinderella Story isn't just a movie — it's honestly a cultural moment. The costume montage, the spastic colons and synchronized swimming, the rain in this drought... even Gavin Degraw singing over the One Tree Hilltrailer on the DVD stand out! Everything about this film is iconically ingrained in our collective conscious, making Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray the Y2k blueprint for many of the "It" pairings we know and love today.

We last left our Princeton royalty preparing for their freshman year of college, dreaming of happily-ever-after — or at least graduation — and that was that! But in this era of reboots, I've often wondered what happened to our OG tortured poets after the credits rolled. Luckily, I'm not the only one! Chad Michael Murray just tee'd up a sequel, and yes that's me you hear squealing right now. Here's everything we know about what's to come for everyone's fave modern fairytale!

Is there a part two to a Cinderella story?

Photo via Warner Bros Entertainment Inc

There's Another Cinderella Story, starring Selena Gomez and Drew Seeley, but that's more so a part of a series of "Cinderella stories" rather than an actual sequel. So far, we haven't gotten a follow-up on our Princeton-bound faves.

Has "A Cinderella Story 2" been announced?

There's been no formal announcement yet, but that doesn't mean all hope is lost. During his press tour for Mother of the Bride, Chad Michael Murray told ETthat he's definitely interested in bringing Austin Ames back. He said that even his daughter told him, "You need to make another one of these, Daddy," after she watched A Cinderella Story for the first time.

His response to the idea? "Here you go, Hil. From me to you, let's do it!" — referring to Hilary Duff, of course! The timing couldn't be better either, given that Hilary just gave birth to her fourth child and could hypothetically be available to film in the coming months...just saying!

Again, there's no official information about this project yet, but with a main piece of the puzzle on board, we're one step closer to my own personal happily-ever-after — a real sequel to A Cinderella Story once and for all.

Wanna stay in-the-know about all things pop culture? Follow us on Facebook for more!

Header image via Warner Bros Entertainment Inc.

All moms are not created equal. Sure, some crave a leisurely mimosa-laden brunch or a mother-daughter mani-pedi outing for Mother’s Day, but we also know moms who are up for an impromptu road trip, baseball game or epic karaoke sesh. No matter what kind of mama you have, it’s time to step up your Mother’s Day game with these 15 activities.

Image via Katerina Holmes/Pexels

1. Go on a weekend getaway. If your relationship is on the Rory-Lorelei side of the spectrum, you can probably handle a fun weekend getaway. Try a relaxing spa package, a museum-centric urban destination, or something a little more outdoorsy like whitewater rafting or mountain biking. You can also book a unique place to stay for a short escape. (Photo via Getty)

2. Thrift ’til you drop. Retail therapy is a relaxing activity for many a mom, but why not be a little more adventurous and hit up some local thrift shops? They’re cheaper and full of rare vintage gems that are ripe for the upcycling.

3. Make her fave food into a DIY spread. Is mom crazy for popcorn or does she dig donut holes? Set up a fun, festive DIY food bar for the whole fam featuring her favorite snacks.

4. Do mother-daughter yoga. Maybe you’ve got a Lululemon-sporting lady or she’s never even said “Namaste.” Either way, a grown-up version of a Mommy-and-Me yoga class can be a great way to bond and relax together.

Image via Ron Lach/Pexels

5. Go hiking, camping, or glamping. Pack up some gear and tent it for a night or just find a picturesque place to hike, picnic, and get some al fresco Instagram fodder.

6. Be baseball fans. Does mom root, root, root for the home team? If not, no worries: Even the sports-illiterate can have a ton of fun at baseball games. Pro tip: Minor League games are just as much fun, and you’ll avoid spending an entire paycheck at the stadium.

7. Sing karaoke. Put all that car-ride harmonizing to good use at your favorite karaoke spot. Bonus points if you serenade her with Sting.

8. Host a game night. Gather all of Mom’s favorite board games and take care of the snacks, drinks, and clean-up. All she needs to do is show up and have fun.

Image via Helena Lopes/Pexels

9. Hit up the dive bar. Proceed at your own risk. If you’re not careful, Mom just might drink you under the table. Maybe Dad can be sober cab…

10. Make homemade face scrubs. Thrifty, beauty product-loving moms will be thrilled that they can make their favorite face scrubs, lip scrubs, lip balms, or even bath bombs at home.

11. Bust out the pink foam rollers. When else are you going to use these beauty relics? Might as well experiment on each other’s hair, and have some LOLs while you do it.

Image via Zen Chung/Pexels

12. Have a pizza party. No need to call for delivery. Making the pizza together is half the fun. Just add wine for the perfect night in. (Photo via Getty)

13. Host an at-home happy hour: Mom deserves a night off. Be her bartender for the evening and mix up some fancy cocktails she might not normally order.

14. Set off on an impromptu road trip. Rent a convertible and make like Thelma + Louise — without all the tragedy, of course. Just think of the selfies you’ll take!

15. Garden Together: Not to stereotype, but moms tend to know what they’re doing in this department. So why not dig in the dirt together? A cleaner alternative: Get some trendy indoor plants.

What will you do for your mom on Mother’s Day? Let us know @BritandCo.

Lead image via

Memorial Day weekend is nigh, and in the midst of planning your epic BBQ spread and a slew of themed cocktails, it's also time to start noting the Memorial Day sales you'll be shopping for a much-needed summer refresh. We've got the scoop on savings in just about every category – from beauty to home decor to fashion – so you know exactly when and where to save big.

Scroll on for the Memorial Day sales we're most excited about for 2024, and make sure to come back here for additional sale info!

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

Target

What: Items up to 60% off

When: May 24-27

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer

Amazon

What: Deals on everything from home goods to decor

When: Now through Memorial Day

Mila Mirror

Anthropologie Home

What: Savings on home goods

When: May 21-27

Peony Vase Thank You Card Set

Papier

What: 15% off stationery & photo books

When: May 22-29

Sherpa Deluxe Black Guarenteed On Board Soft Sided Dog & Cat Carrier

Petco

What: BOGO 50% off select summer products and 20% off select sherpa carriersWhen: May 24-27

Dallas IV Hat

Hood

What: 25% off sitewide with code USA25

When: May 23-27

CZ Crescent with Stars Necklace

Sterling Forever

What: 20% off sitewide with code SUMMER20

When: May 24-28

Stemless Wine Chiller Pair

VoChill

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 17-27

The Coated Pan

Material Kitchen

What: 20% off (*promo excludes bundles and collaborations)

When: May 23-27

EOS Classic Organic Mattress

Naturepedic

What: 20% off sitewide with code MEMORIAL20

When: May 15-29

Pierrette Dress

SAYLOR

What: Extra 15% off sale styles with code MDAY24

When: May 27

Sea Green Pleated Tennis Skirt

Gold Hinge

What: 25% off sitewide with code MDAY25

When: May 23-27

Calista FAUXblo Thermal Blowout Brush

Calista

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24

CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

What: Take $200 off sitewide on all CAROL bikes

When: May 24-30

Cartolina Louise Cover-Up

Cartolina

What: 30% off sitewide

When: May 22-28

Carve Designs Zella Mesh Pullover

Carve Designs

What: BOGO red, white, and blue swim; buy 1 swimsuit, get one swimsuit 50% off

When: May 23-27

Essentia Stratami Organic Mattress

Essentia

What: 25% off sitewide, plus receive free GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheets with qualifying mattress purchases

When: May 13-31

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Harper Wilde

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24-27

MARLOWE. Soap Bar Discovery Gift Set

MARLOWE.

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 27

Pura 4 Diffuser

Pura

What: 25% off sitewide through code only (subscriber early access: May 23-27), 25% off sitewide, plus subscribe to the Pura V4 and get a free car set

When: May 21-22

Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30

Vacation

What: 20% off sitewide, plus get a free boat keychain or pen on orders over $65 (while supplies last)

When: May 24-27

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on these Memorial Day sales + all the best deals!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Amazon's adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s famed Red, White & Royal Blueblew our minds with its perfectly extravagant and messy royal romance. Prince Henry and Alex Claremont-Diaz stole our hearts with their antics, proving that love isn't always as cookie cutter as we think it should be. Not only that, but it was the LGBT film we never knew we needed until it hit the big screen last year.

If you've been missing Prince Henry and Alex, you're in luck because a sequel to Red, White & Royal Blue is officially coming! Here's everything we know about the latest developments!

Is the main cast returning?

Image via Jonathan Prime/Prime Video

I'm happy to share that Nicholas Galitzine and Taylor Zakhar Perez are returning! I honestly don't think the Red, White & Royal Blue sequel would be the same if they weren't.

However, no other cast information has been released! Hopefully we'll see Uma Thurman and Clifton Collins, Jr. reprise their roles!

What's the sequel going to be about?

Image via Prime Video

As of yet, Variety reports that not much has been confirmed about the sequel's plot or release date. My guess is that there the two lovebirds will have to juggle new responsibilities and mishaps.

What the original plot of "Red, White & Royal Blue?"

Image via Prime Video

The novel centers around the character of Alex Claremont-Diaz, a first son of the United States, and his romantic relationship with Prince Henry, British royalty.

Take a walk down memory lane with these behind-the-scenes pictures 👀

www.instagram.com

Matthew López on Instagram: "“Yes, this is exactly how I always dreamed it would be. Locked in a cupboard with your elbow inside my rib cage.” #rwrbmovie"

www.instagram.com

Nicholas Galitzine on Instagram: "The bois 📸 @aneeshtheactress"

www.instagram.com

Matthew López on Instagram: "Spent the last two weeks rehearsing with @nicholasgalitzine and @taylorzakharperez It’s been a joy to watch Henry and Alex come to life in the room. Excited to make this movie with them. Here we go! #rwrbmovie @primevideo 📸: (the great Stephen Goldblatt)"

We cannot wait to see what new adventures are two lovebirds will cook up in Red, White & Royal Blue, but for now we’ll be rereading (and rereading) RWRB.

Stay updated on all the latest entertainment new with Brit + Co.

Header image courtesy of Amazon Prime Video.

This post has been updated.