Keep It Sweet With 20 White Chocolate Treats

Dec 10, 2014

As delicious and antioxidant-packed as dark chocolate is, there’s still a place in our hearts for the sweeter stuff. The candy-like flavor of white chocolate shines bright in these 20 oh-so-sweet recipes that are perfect for any occasion — especially your next white dessert party. Settle in with a mugful of hot chocolate and scroll on through one sweet selection of goodies.

1. White Chocolate-Blueberry Cheesecake: Blueberries are a welcome change of pace from the usual raspberries in this divine cheesecake. We love that they’re baked right into the cake and also sprinkled on top for two distinct taste experiences. (via Yammie’s Noshery)

2. White Chocolate-Strawberry Cream Scones: Make these outstanding scones for breakfast, tea time or dessert. They work well all day long, but taste best right out of the oven. Plan accordingly. (via My Bacon Wrapped Life)

3. White Hot Chocolate: It couldn’t be any easier to make your own white hot chocolate from scratch. No need to swing by the coffee shop or pick up those just-add-water packets from the grocery store to get your fix. You can enjoy this warm, smooth and white chocolatey refreshment at home in your PJs. (via Gimme Some Oven)

4. White Chocolate Cheesecake Pie: Can you ever have too many no-bake desserts to choose from? We think not. Enjoy this terrific pie made with a macadamia and graham cracker crust, fluffy white chocolate-cream-cheese-cool-whip filling and your favorite mix of berries. (via Blahnik Baker)

5. Holiday Bark: A few minutes of hands-on prep is all it takes to create these two totally delicious — and distinct — very giftable white chocolate holiday barks. It’s hard to say which one’s the favorite; Oreos, s’mores and candy canes are each tempting in their own right. (via Brit + Co)

6. Chocolate Mango Slice: This creamy, three-ingredient mango-white-chocolate frosting goes beyond just a topping for brownies. It would be awesome slicked between cake layers and so much more. (via Mademoiselle Gourmande)

7. White Chocolate Victoria Sponge With Balsamic-Roasted Strawberries: Every bite of this cake provides a whisper of white chocolate goodness. Roasting the strawberries concentrates their natural sweetness, while balsamic vinegar and a sour cream filling keep things from becoming too saccharine. (via The Sugar Hit)

8. Baked Cheesecake With White Chocolate and a Cherry Topping: Cherries and white chocolate are an unexpected, unbelievably tasty pairing atop this elegant cheesecake. (via Food Monger)

9. Peppermint White Hot Chocolate: Gold-dipped, champagne-infused marshmallows add a pop of color and a hint of class to this mug of minty, hot chocolate. Can’t get your hands on metallic ‘mallows? These sugar cookie-flavored ones would be an excellent swap. (via Sugar and Cloth)

10. White Chocolate and Candy Bark: If you have any leftover Halloween (or other holiday) candy around, this recipe can transform it into a whole new treat in a flash. Of course, we have some other candy inspiration for you as well. (via Brit + Co)

11. Tiger Butter Tart: Peanut butter and chocolate fans will go wild for this awesome no-bake tart. (via Cake Merchant)

12. Malted Milk Funfetti Blondies: Pops of brightly colored sprinkles and white chocolate chips make these sweet, gooey blondies totally fun and ready for a party (in your mouth). (via The Messy Baker Blog)

13. Oreo Silk Pie: As you progress from the top to the bottom layer of this silky pie, the chocolate flavor gets gradually more intense. Your tastebuds will thank you. (via Bakers Royale)

14. Blackberry-White Chocolate S’mores: Sticky marshmallows and sweet white chocolate work beautifully with the tart crunch of blackberries in this s’mores spin-off. Enjoy these at the campsite or in the comfort of your own kitchen — the broiler does a terrific job puffing and charring the ‘mallow just so. (via 40 Aprons)

15. Chocolate-White Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies reverse the usual chocolate chip cookie color palette to create a super chocolatey, soft nibble. (via Jelly Toast Blog)

16. Rhubarb and White Chocolate Blondies: Tart rhubarb and white chocolate do a fabulous job keeping one another in check flavor-wise, leading us to think that this is a paring we’d like to see more often. (via Hummingbird High)

17. White Chocolate Tiramisu Truffle With Spiced Pears: This gorgeous trifle is a definite contender for our holiday table or next white dessert party. (via Bon Appétit)

18. Two-Ingredient White Chocolate Buttercream: Butter and white chocolate are whipped together to create this delicious, fluffy frosting. Use it for your next cake, spread it on graham crackers or simply enjoy it by the spoonful. (via Cookies and Cups)

19. Piña Colada Granola Bars: Transform the usual white chocolate-macadamia-nut cookie into a flavor-packed snack by making these piña colada-inspired granola bars. Thankfully, you don’t need to wait ’til happy hour to enjoy them. (via Yammie’s Noshery)

20. White Chocolate Baba Ghannouj: Alright, who’s daring enough to try this dip? White chocolate adds a smooth, sweet element to the usual smokey eggplant baba ghannouj. Tempering with these traditional flavors ever so slightly could yield some uniquely savory results for your next Mediterranean meal. (via Saveur)

Which of these treats is tempting you to go back to the sweeter side of chocolate? Let’s talk about all things chocolate in the comments.

17 Unique Flavor Combos To Upgrade Your Avocado Toast Recipes

To us, the avocado toast craze is still in full swing. We'd happily take our Instagram feeds flooded with aesthetically-pleasing pics of avo toast! The crunchy-yet-creamy combo is delicious, nutritious, and easy to make, but let’s keep it real: the classic version of avocado toast (crispy bread + smashed avocado + sea salt + olive oil + lemon juice) has become a little — dare we say, basic?

With the help of a few tasty toppings, you can upgrade your avocado toast game and give this foodie favorite quite the gourmet flair. The results will make your followers jealous, but your taste buds oh-so happy. Check out this list of avocado toast recipes to keep your meals inspired!

Avocado Egg Salad

Made with four ingredients, this mayo-free avocado + egg salad is a game changer. It’s a fabulous make-ahead lunch that will give your work day some extra excitement! (via The Roasted Root)

Autumn Avocado Toast

We’re confident this toasted avocado toast treat can be enjoyed all year long, especially on chilly days or nights when you’re craving something that's both sweet and savory. (via How Sweet Eats)

Cottage Cheese Avocado Toast

Cottage cheese is a super easy way to give your avocado toast recipes a boost of protein! Its cheesy, creamy consistency blends exceptionally well with mashed or sliced avocado, and in this delicious case, fresh tomatoes. (via The Fast Recipe)

Roasted Chickpea Avocado Toast

Same goes for chickpeas! They're a nice, cheap source of vegan protein that can make your avocado toast recipes more fulfilling. This recipe calls for you to pan-roast them, so they get crispy and flavorful. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Avocado Toast with Roasted Asparagus on Multigrain

This loaded toast is good for meals beyond just breakfast. The hearty roasted asparagus will warm you up from the inside out, all while incorporating tons of vitamins and minerals in each bite. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Avocado Toast with Brown Butter Sesame Seeds

The brown butter sesame seeds that adorn the top of this toast add a much-needed note of umami, balancing out the creamy avo in no time. (via The Original Dish)

Grilled Corn, Feta, + Egg in a Hole Avocado Toast

Bet you've never seen an avocado toast recipe like this before! This pick gets topped with grilled corn, feta cheese, egg, and if you feel like going gourmet with it, some fresh peach slices. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Avocado + Heirloom Tomato Toast

We can all agree that avocado toast is what dreams are made of. But when you add fresh, ripened tomatoes and drizzle some balsamic vinegar on top, it takes your avocado toast dreams to a whole new level. (via Blissful Basil)

Open-Faced Lemon Pepper Artichoke and Arugula Sandwich

Better known as fancy toast, this gourmet knife-and-fork meal tastes as good as it looks. With a stellar combo of white bean hummus, artichokes, lemon juice, baby arugula, and sweet balsamic glaze, this savory-yet-subtly sweet avocado toast will likely become your new favorite food. (via Veggie and the Beast)

Avocado Toast With Charred Tomatoes, Garlic Shrimp and Fried Egg

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late night snack, this flavorful and nutritious version of avo toast will have you thanking the food gods! (via Domesticate Me)

Avocado and Crab Crostini

Top your avocado toast with fresh, buttery crab and toasted baguette slices, then be prepared for your life to change — it’s that good. Serve these slices as an appetizer when hosting your next soirée, and your guests will be begging for the recipe. (via Confessions of a Chocoholic)

Green Goddess Toast

Roasted spring vegetables, tahini sauce, and avocado. Do we even need to say more? (via Feed Me Phoebe)

Vegan Hummus on Avocado Toast

If you’re getting a little bored with your avocado toast, but don’t want to put in a ton of effort to renew the meal, this recipe is for you! Slow-roasted tomatoes, hemp hearts, avocado, and hummus make for a winning combination. This also makes for the perfect post-workout snack! (via Oh She Glows)

Avocado Toast With Crisped Prosciutto

This take on avocado toast will make you hungry just thinking about it. Don’t say we didn’t warn you! (via Honest Cooking)

Spicy Steak and Avocado Toast

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box when it comes to your avocado toast recipes. Whether you’re headed to a summer potluck or making a meal for your boo, this filling steak dish will thrill even the pickiest eater. (via Heather Christo)

Smoked Salmon and Smashed Avocado Tartines

You’ll get a nutrient-rich dose of heart-healthy fats, vitamins, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids with these tasty avo-smothered tartines. (via Baker by Nature)

Spicy Maple Bacon and Scrambled Eggs on Avocado Toast

Are you just drooling reading the name of this dish? We are! Pair this crave-worthy comfort food with mimosas, and declare yourself the queen of brunch. (via Domesticate Me)

Which of these avocado toast recipes are you super excited to try? Let us know in the comments!

Lead image via Half Baked Harvest.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

breakfast recipes brunch recipes food recipes roundups foodie healthy recipes recipe roundup snacks avocado toast food

The "Bridgerton" Season 4 Couple Is Coming Even Sooner Than Expected

I haven't even seen season 3 of Bridgertonin all its friends-to-lovers, springtime, romantic glory, and I'm already thinking about Bridgerton season 4. I'm a sucker for any storyline about siblings, and while we're still waiting on official confirmation, it looks like season 4 of Bridgerton will follow Benedict and his love interest Sophie — who may have already been cast 👀. Here's everything you need to know about season 4 of the hit TV show. And check out everything you need to know about The Bridgerton World Tour!

Will there be season 4 of Bridgerton?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Yes, we're getting a Bridgerton season 4! After the popularity of the first season, Netflix renewed the series for another two seasons in 2021. I'm expecting the senior season of the Shondaland show to follow An Offer from a Gentleman, which revolves around second-eldest son Benedict. The novel has major Cinderella vibes, and follows servant Sophie, who falls in love with Benedict at a masquerade ball. Dreamy!

Bridgerton showrunner Jess Bronwell confirmed that the end of Bridgerton season 3 (which hits Netflix June 13) will have some major clues as to next season's couple. “I do think that there are some clues at the end of season 3 of where we’re headed,” she tells TV Insider. “So yeah, I leave that to fans to pick apart, but I think we’re tipping our hand just a little bit."

Who's in the Bridgerton season 4 cast?

Image via Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

We're sure to see Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton, as well as Luke Newton, Nicola Coughlan, Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Claudia Jessie, Hannah Dodd, Will Tilston, and Florence Hunt as the rest of the Bridgertons + their spouses.

As for the role of Sophie, rumor has it we might see Masali Baduza join the Netflix show. You might recognize the actress from movies like The Woman King and Slumber Party Massacre. "They never disappoint, casting geniuses," one Reddit user says. "If this is true, I love it!"

While the absolutely *radiant* Masali would do a wonderful job as Sophie, some fans of the series have hesitations over a Black woman playing the role of a servant — especially if the theory the show will place her in the white Cowper family is true. "As a Black woman, just no," another user says. "Sophie is the love interest who in my opinion is the most sh*tted on by her Bridgerton and the story of a white person trying to hide their association with a Black person is a little too real."

"It makes me uncomfortable too," another adds. "Actually the entire Benophie plot sounds awful if I’m honest but to then put it on a Black woman on top of that makes it even worse."

When is Bridgerton season 4 coming out?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Considering part one of Bridgerton season 3 is hitting Netflix May 16, 2024, we definitely won't see season 4 of Bridgerton for awhile. So far, there have been two years in between each season, so I'm expecting season 4 to start streaming in 2026.

How many episodes will season 4 of Bridgerton have?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Considering all three seasons of Bridgerton so far have eight episodes each, we can expect Netflix to keep up that pattern. Having the same number of episodes each season means the pace and arc for each Bridgerton sibling will be equal, making it a much more balanced watching experience!

Will Bridgerton have all 8 seasons?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Yes, Bridgerton will have all 8 seasons, one for each Bridgerton sibling — at least, that's the plan. "This being a family of eight children and there being eight books, I would love to be able to focus and really tell stories and love stories for all the Bridgerton siblings. For each character, for sure," showrunner Chris Van Dusen tells Collider.

After Bridgerton season 4, I'm most interested to see youngest sibling Hyacinth's love story play out! Seeing her arc throughout all eight seasons, especially mirrored with the way her brothers and sisters evolve over the course of the show, is going to be the perfect way to wrap this series up.

What are you looking forward to the most for Bridgerton season 4? Follow us on Facebook for more TV show news!

Lead image via Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

entertainment pop culture tv

22 Must-Try Mojito Recipes To Quench Your Summer Thirst

While margaritas are a must on Cinco de Mayo, nothing says summer quite like a refreshing mojito. Whether you’re sipping your drink poolside, seaside or even couch-side, there’s something about that minty lime flavor that cools you off after a long day at the office. We’ve already shared some of our favorite mojito recipes (pumpkin! very berry! strawberry!), but now we’re shaking things up with 22 must-try takes on the classic cocktail that are guaranteed to add a little Caribbean flair to any summer soiree. Serve one (or five) at your next BBQ bash for an ice cold treat that will have everyone daydreaming about tropical breezes and steel drum bands.

Mango Mojito

Ripe mangos and cool mint make for one truly sweet mojito. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

Cranberry Mojito

If you're planning to indulge in summer-sipping on the 4th of July, a cranberry mojito adds a fun and festive touch. (via We Are Not Martha)

Blueberry Mojito

Give one of breakfast’s biggest stars a happy hour hack that will have you counting down ‘til five o’clock. (via Our State)

Pineapple Cinnamon Mojito

Refreshing cocktail or delectable dessert? This cream-topped delight delivers both at once. Which is why we’ll take two. (via Tattooed Martha)

Basil Cucumber Mojito

We love infusing our water with basil and cucumber (mainly because it makes us feel like we’re at a spa), so why not take this refreshing tip and apply it to an adult beverage? Whip out this recipe whenever you need a light, invigorating pick-me-up. (via Satori Design for Living)

Skinny Mint Mojito

We all love a good mojito, but not the extra calories that come along with it. Enjoy your favorite summer sip (while still fitting into your bikini!) with this 72-cal spin on the traditional recipe. (via Julie Blanner)

Basil Lychee Mojito

No rum at the ready? No problem; this unique variation calls for gin instead. (via Supergolden Bakes)

Zesty Lemon Lime Mojito

Ginger-infused simple syrup takes this zesty zinger of a mojito from a might-try to a must-have. (via SoupAddict)

Sweet Tea Mojito

Everyone’s favorite Southern sip just got the ultimate Caribbean makeover! Mix up your mojito by adding crushed sweet tea ice cubes. (via Kitchen Concoctions)

Original Lime Mojito

When it comes to shaking up the perfect mojito, this simple yet superb combination of lime and mint will never let you down. (via Cooking LSL)

Champagne Grapefruit Pineapple Mojito

Champagne, grapefruit juice and pineapple vodka offer an original combination of flavors just perfect for switching things up. (via Cooks with Cocktails)

Pineapple Mojito

Jamaica meets Hawaii when you muddle mint, sugar and fresh pineapple. Pineapple party! (via Jelly Toast)

Strawberry Jalapeno Mojito

Add extra sizzle to your summer with this spicy concoction that combines sweet strawberries and hot jalapenos. Now, who’s got the salsa? (via PDXfoodlove)

Raspberry Mint Mojito

Your go-to summer cocktail just got even better with the addition of sweet, antioxidant-rich raspberries. (via A Gouda Life)

Frosty Coconut Mojito

Can’t swing a tropical vacay this year? No sweat! Bring the best of the tropics to your home by shaking up a coconut-infused mojito that’s perfect anytime, anywhere. (via How Sweet It Is)

Moscato Mojito

When you can’t quite decide between a mojito and a glass of wine, this sweet sip offers the best of both worlds. (via bell’alimento)

Strawberry Lemonade Mojito

What would summer be without strawberries and lemonade? This recipe gives the time-trusted fave a fun, grownup twist. (via Eating Richly)

Peach Mojito

Hot and humid afternoons have nothing on this blissful blend of summer peaches and lemon juice. (via My Recipes)

Lavender Mojito

Lavender-infused simple syrup adds light flavor, while a pretty sprig makes a super cute cocktail stirrer. (via Sugar and Charm)

Orange Basil Mojito

Bored with mimosas at brunch? Change things up with this orange basil masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy any citrus lover. (via Dine + Dish)

Triple Berry Mojito

What’s better than a mojito made with strawberries, blueberries or raspberries? One that combines all three, obviously. (via How Sweet It Is)

Lemongrass Mojito

Lemongrass isn’t just for soups and stir-fries. Serve this lemongrass mojito at your next dinner party along with Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles for a pairing that’s as unique as it is delicious. (via Season with Spice)

Which of these must-try mojitos are you ready to shake up this summer? Tell us below!

recipe roundup mojitos summer drink recipes cocktails food

Matty Healy Finally Responded To Taylor Swift's "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived"

I never thought we'd get a Taylor Swift album with multiple songs referencing Matty Healy, but after multiple listens, the internet is convinced The Tortured Poets Department(the first edition, at least) has a ton of references to The 1975 frontman. (Only time will tell if TS12 references Matty too!) One song in particular has sent everyone into a tizzy: "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived." Here's why fans think the song is about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy.

What has Matty Healy said about "The Tortured Poets Department"?

Image via Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

When asked what he'd rate his "diss track" from The Tortured Poets Department, Matty admits he hasn't actually listened to that much of the album yet (if he ever will). "My diss track? Oh!" he laughs. "I haven't really listened to that much of it, but I'm sure it's good."

Debbie Dedes, Matty's aunt, speculated right after the album drop that he wouldn't be affected too much by the music. “She writes about all her relationships, doesn't she? I don't think it will come as a shock to him at all,” she tells The Daily Mail. “He's very happy in his new relationship [with Gabbriette Bechtel] so I'm sure he will be focusing on that.”

Is "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy?

Image via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior

While Taylor Swift & Matty Healy never publicly dated until 2023, they were friends for years before that. In 2014, Taylor Swift went to her first The 1975 concert with Selena Gomez and Ellie Goulding. Then, Taylor was seen wearing one of their band shirts while Matty was spotted in a 1989 shirt. "I met Taylor Swift," Matty told Shazam Top 20 in November (via E! News). "That was really nice. We exchanged numbers. Let's see what happens."

Matty Healy & Taylor Swift continued referencing each other over the next couple years, and fans lost their minds when Matty revealed he'd collaborated on a Midnights song — even if he went on to say it was cut. After Taylor Swift performed "Anti-Hero" during a 1975 concert, and then split from boyfriend Joe Alwyn split in the spring of 2023, Taylor & Matty quickly connected. They went on to date from May to June. That brings us to "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived."

In the song, Taylor wonders if "rusting my sparkling summer was the goal" and talks about "your Jehovah's Witness suit" (Matty is famous for wearing suits during his concerts). She also mentions how the relationship "wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden" — which totally ties into the themes within "Guilty As Sin?" (about imaginary trysts she thought about while dating someone else).

"[These Matty Healy-focused songs] started out being like 'f*ck all of you, I love him, I’ll fix him, I don’t care what you say' to ending here basically saying 'alright yeah this guy sucks,'" one Reddit user says. "I think the order of these songs plays a huge role in this throughline of that relationship."

"Heavyweight rappers J. Cole, Drake, and Rick Ross all released diss tracks over the last couple of weeks, and none of them were as scathing as this one," another says.

How long did Taylor Swift and Matty Healy date?

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

While Taylor Swift & Matty Healy officially dated during the summer of 2023, another song on TTPD, "Fresh Out The Slammer" makes me think they connected before then. Referring to her relationship as a jail, she sings about how she's connected with this person before she started dating her ex. "I'm runnin' back home to you // Frеsh out the slammer // I know who my first call will be to." (Does this mean "Illicit Affairs" from Folklore is actually about Matty Healy too?)

What other The Tortured Poets Department songs are about Matty Healy?

Image via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior

It looks like "Fortnight," "The Tortured Poets Department," "I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can)," and "loml" are just a few of the songs that could be about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy's relationship.

The "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" Lyrics

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Verse 1: Was any of it true? // Gazing at me starry-eyed // In your Jehovah's Witness suit // Who the f-ck was that guy? // You tried to buy some pills // From a friend of friends of mine // They just ghosted you // Now you know what it feels like

Chorus: And I don't even want you back, I just want to know // If rusting my sparkling summer was the goal // And I don't miss what we had, but could someone give // A message to the smallest man who ever lived?

Verse 2: You hung me on your wall // Stabbed me with your push pins // In public, showed me off // Then sank in stoned oblivion // 'Cause once your queen had come // You'd treat her likе an also-ran // You didn't measure up // In any measurе of a man

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Bridge: Were you sent by someone who wanted me dead? // Did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed? // Were you writin' a book? Were you a sleeper cell spy? // In fifty years, will all this be declassified? // And you'll confess why you did it and I'll say, "Good riddance" // 'Cause it wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden // I would've died for your sins, instead, I just died inside // And you deserve prison, but you won't get time // You'll slide into inboxes and slip through the bars // You crashed my party and your rental car // You said normal girls were boring // But you were gone by the morning // You kicked out the stage lights, but you're still performing

Outro: And in plain sight you hid // But you are what you did // And I'll forget you, but I'll never forgive // The smallest man who ever lived

Tell us your hottest Taylor Swift & Matty Healy take on Facebook, then read up on The Taylor Swift Boyfriends You Love, And The Ones You Didn't Know She Dated.

Lead images via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior/Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

This post has been updated.

music entertainment celebrity taylor swift pop culture

Creative DIY Birthday Card Ideas Your Friends Will Love

As cute and clever as store-bought greeting cards are, there's something incredibly thoughtful that can be felt in a homemade birthday card from a friend or loved one. Not only does the act of creating DIY birthday cardsgive you the chance to slow down from the business of life and reflect on what you cherish most about the people you're celebrating, but the one-of-a-kind touch will be super memorable for your recipients as well.

Even if you're not the craftiest person, don't fret, because we've put together a straightforward guide on how to craft your own DIY birthday card for your besties and S.O.'s. Step into the world of DIY magic as we embark on a quest to create birthday cards that will leave your recipients in awe. From unexpected pop-up surprises to mind-bending interactive features, discover fresh ways to make birthday cards burst with fun and excitement. Prepare to unleash your inner artist as we dive into all the tips to help you craft unique and captivating birthday cards. And keep reading for some thoughtful text ideas to ensure that your birthday wishes are just as fun as the card design they're on.

Step 1: Gather Your DIY Birthday Card Supplies

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Before embarking on your DIY birthday card adventure, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. A well-prepared crafter is a confident crafter! So, let's make sure you have everything you need to bring your imaginative card ideas to life.

Start with colored cardstock or paper as the foundation of your cards. Choose a variety of vibrant hues to suit different themes and moods. Scissors are your trusty sidekick, enabling you to precisely cut out shapes, create borders, and trim your cardstock.
Grab glue or adhesive tape to hold everything together securely. Opt for a glue stick for a mess-free experience or double-sided tape for a clean and seamless finish.
Round up all the art supplies you have, from markers and colored pencils, or pens. These magical tools will be your gateway to adding personalized messages, whimsical doodles, and vibrant colors to your DIY creations.
Stock up on a dazzling array of embellishments for an added dose of flair and personality. Let your creativity soar as you explore the boundless possibilities of stickers, sequins, ribbons, twines, buttons, beads, and more. Watch your creations come alive with vibrant colors, textures, and eye-catching details. With these delightful elements at your fingertips, there's no limit to the magic your birthday cards can be infused with.

Step 2: Choose Your Card Design

Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels

The card design will function as the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. A well-designed card can evoke emotions ranging from joy and excitement to nostalgia and warmth, leaving friends and family in awe of the thoughtful gesture.

Handmade Watercolor Design:

Express your artistic side by creating a handmade watercolor masterpiece for a genuinely one-of-a-kind birthday card. Start with a blank cardstock or watercolor paper as the base, and let your creativity flow. Use watercolors to paint a vibrant and personalized design, such as flowers, balloons, or a recipient's favorite hobby or color palette. Add a heartfelt birthday message inside to complete the card.

Pop-Up Surprise:

Add an element of surprise and delight to your card with a pop-up feature. Cut out a simple pop-up mechanism using cardstock or colored paper and attach it to the inside of the card. Then, unleash your creativity by designing and cutting out fun shapes, such as cakes, candles, or balloons, and attach them to the pop-up mechanism. When the card is opened, the surprise element will make the birthday celebration of your loved one even more memorable.

Quilled Creations:

Quilling is a paper art technique that involves rolling and shaping thin paper strips to create intricate designs. Use quilling techniques to create beautiful and delicate patterns, flowers, or even personalized messages on your birthday cards. Experiment with different colors and shapes to bring your design to life and make it truly unique. The recipient will appreciate the time and effort put into crafting such an elegant and artistic card.

Hand-Stitched Greeting:

Consider incorporating those skills into your DIY card if you enjoy sewing or embroidery. Use a needle and thread to create hand-stitched designs or patterns on fabric or cardstock. You can stitch the recipient's name, a birthday message, or even cute motifs like balloons or cupcakes. The texture and charm of a hand-stitched card will make it a cherished keepsake.

Interactive Slider Card:

Create an interactive slider card to take your birthday card to the next level. Use cardstock to make a slider mechanism that reveals a hidden message or image as it is pulled. Write a heartfelt message or attach a memorable photo that slides out when the recipient pulls the tab. This interactive element adds a playful touch to your card and makes it truly engaging.

Step 3: Write A Clever Message

Image via June/Pexels

Elevate your birthday card by personalizing it with a heartfelt note to enrich the receiver's experience. Share warm wishes, inside jokes, or memories that make the card even more special and meaningful. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for what to write inside your DIY birthday card!

"Happy birthday, queen of the hashtags! May your day be as fabulous as your Instagram feed."
"You're the avocado to my toast, the squad to my goals. Happy birthday, superstar!"
"It's your birthday, so let's turn up the 'Lit' level and celebrate like it's 1999... or 2023!"
"Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more cake. Enjoy your special day!"
"May your birthday be filled with good vibes and a bottomless brunch. Cheers to another fabulous year!"
"Sending you birthday wishes with all the heart emojis. You deserve all the love and happiness today and always."
"Happy birthday to my favorite extremely online friend. May your Wi-Fi always be strong and your battery never die."
"Time to celebrate another trip around the sun. Let's make this year even more epic than the last!"
"You're not getting older, you're leveling up! Happy birthday, gamer!"
"Happy birthday, trendsetter! May your day be filled with selfie-worthy moments and viral-worthy adventures."

Step 4: Add The Perfect Finishing Touch

Brit + Co

As a bonus, consider creating a DIY envelope to complete the package. Choose decorative paper or repurpose materials like magazine pages or fabric scraps to craft a unique envelope that adds creativity and thoughtfulness to your handmade card. Personalize it by adding hand-drawn designs, stamps, or calligraphy for an extra special touch.

So, there you have it! DIY birthday cards offer endless possibilities for fun, creativity, and the chance to unleash your imagination. With just a few simple steps, you can create customized and sincere cards that will bring joy to your loved ones on their special day. Remember, the beauty of DIY is that there are no limits or rules. Let your creativity run wild, experiment with different techniques, colors, and textures, and, most importantly, have fun. Happy crafting!

For more crafty ideas, check out all of our DIY ideas on Brit + Co.

diy projects cards crafts celebrations creativity lifestyle