Holiday Gift Guide

I can’t believe Christmas is almost a week away -- 8 days to be exact. For all you last minute shoppers who either haven’t started your Christmas shopping yet, need a few extra ideas or simply want to buy something for yourself, I’ve complied a list of lust-worthy items, with price ranges no higher than $150 so there is something for every budget.  

1. Luxe Faux Fur Scarf ($29.50)  2. Nadege Holiday Macarons ($27.50)  3. Zara Sparkly High Heel Shoes ($89.90)  4. Danier Biella Glove ($49)  5. Zara Cable Knit Sweater ($54.90)  6. Givenchy Le Rouge ($38)  7. J.Crew Minnie Pant in Medallion Print ($88)  8. Williams-Sonoma Hot Chocolate Set ($45.32)  9. Kate Spade Grace Avenue Ring Holder ($40)  10. Kate Spade Fair Maiden Stacey Wallet ($148)  11. Davids Tea Silver Berries Perfect Mug (2 for $30)

Vegan Peppermint Patties

Holiday season is upon us and that means an abundance of indulgent foods and treats. But as I'm leaving for a trip really soon (going to Hong Kong and Australia), I’ve been trying to lay low on the indulgent part (that is being saved for obvious and necessary vacation eating). I was tempted to make peppermint patties but couldn't decide on a healthy version I liked best. So when I saw that Oh She Glows (one of my favourite food blogs) had made her own vegan version, I knew this was the winner.

Crunchy on the outside, smooth and creamy on the inside, these peppermint patties are melt-in-your-mouth divine. They have a nice peppermint flavour without being overpowering and the filling is so luxurious. I didn’t have agave on hand so I subbed in coconut nectar instead. Side note: if you haven’t tried coconut nectar, you must. It has a rich, deep flavour and is healthier than agave. However, because of the coconut nectar, my filling turned out a beige colour rather than the usual white insides of traditional peppermint patties. Although not as pretty, the taste certainly made up for it.