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amber light bulbs

The Exact Lighting I Use at Home to Sleep Better (Amber Light Bulb Guide)

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I spent years doing everything right for sleep. Taking magnesium, no screens, cool bedroom, and still waking at 3 am wondering what I was missing. It wasn’t until I started obsessing over my outdoor light exposure and the wavelengths coming out of my home lighting that things actually shifted. In fact, this is one of the most impactful changes I’ve ever made.

If you’re just looking for the products I mentioned in a video or podcast:

Why I Choose Amber Light Bulbs 

Light is the most powerful signal your body receives all day. Not just as light to see, but the information our cells are reading from the light. The spectrum of light entering your eyes tells your hypothalamus what time it is. This determines whether melatonin rises on schedule or gets suppressed for another 90 minutes while you lie in bed wondering why you can’t fall asleep.

The problem: standard LED lighting, including “warm white” bulbs, emits the same wavelengths of blue light as noon sunlight. Your overhead lights, your lamp, and your bathroom vanity are telling your cells it’s midday at 9 pm. Every night.

After years of testing (and a house that now glows like a very cozy campfire after 6 pm), here’s exactly what I use, why it works, and where to get it. And pro tip: I use timers in my house so the right lighting goes on in lamps at sunset and off around bedtime without any extra work. Those are all linked below.

In This Post

Why “Warm White” LEDs Still Aren’t Enough

This was the thing that surprised me most when I first started researching this properly. A 2700K “warm white” LED looks yellowish and feels softer than a daylight bulb. However, it still emits a measurable spike in the blue wavelength range (440–480nm) that suppresses melatonin. The warmth you see is partially filtered. The circadian-disrupting portion of the spectrum is still very much present.

What your body actually needs in the evening is light with no emissions below 530nm, in the amber/red spectrum with no blue and no green wavelengths. This is what’s called a true amber or low-blue spectrum, and it’s genuinely different from a warm white LED.

Your eyes contain specialized cells called melanopsin receptors. These cells have nothing to do with vision; they exist only to signal your master clock about what time it is. They’re exquisitely sensitive to short-wavelength blue light around 480nm. When they detect it, they signal the suprachiasmatic nucleus to suppress melatonin output.

Even dim light can interfere with a person’s circadian rhythm and melatonin secretion. A mere eight lux — about the level of most bedside lamps — has an effect. (Harvard Medical School)

A true amber bulb engineered to have zero emissions below 530nm can’t trigger those receptors. Your brain reads it as firelight. This triggers safe, post-sunset, begin repair mode.

The Exact Amber Bulbs and Lamps I Use

Evening Amber Light Bulbs (the Most Important Swap)

The body is used to and primed for bright overhead light during the day, so overhead lighting wasn’t my first priority in auditing my home light environment. I researched to find circadian-friendly bulbs for evening and put these in lamps so they’re always at eye level or below.

These go in every lamp in my main living spaces and any rooms we’re in after about 6 pm. Namely, the kitchen, living room, and dining room. This is where most circadian disruption happens, and it’s where the change makes the fastest difference. I also have these in our bedrooms.

You can get the lightbulbs I use from Healthy Home Lighting here (and use code wellnessmama to save 10%). 

The bulbs I chose from Healthy Home are no-flicker, no-EMF, and have the right light wavelengths. They come with three modes: daylight, sunset, and campfire. I have our evening bulbs set to campfire mode automatically and they all come on at sunset. So we simply turn off any overhead light and switch to “night mode” in our home.

  • Zero blue light emissions — not just reduced, eliminated
  • Flicker-free and low EMF
  • Bright enough for everyday tasks, not just reading
  • Standard E26 base, which fits most lamps and fixtures

I also use digital timers, so these come on automatically. All the timers and lamps I use are linked here.

Red Bulbs For the Bedroom and Bathroom

In the bedroom and bathroom, I go further. I opt for true red light, which contains no blue or green wavelengths at all. Red light above 600nm has essentially zero effect on the circadian system. It’s what photographers use in darkrooms. I use these in bedside lamps and the bathroom vanity for the hour before sleep.

Find the flicker-free red light bulbs I use here. 

Note that these are different than red light therapy panels. While the light is still beneficial, those are their own category, and I actually don’t recommend using them at night or right before sleep.

The Three-Setting Bulb (Easiest Option to Start With)

If you want one bulb that does it all without swapping, a circadian lightbulb that cycles through daylight, amber, and deep red with your existing light switch is the simplest entry point. No app, no smart home setup, no Wifi or Bluetooth, you just flip the switch.

I don’t think the full red light bulbs are necessary unless you really want to go low light in the evening. The three settings of the Healthy Home Bulbs will work in most cases.

The Lamps Themselves

Bulbs are only half of the equation. Overhead lighting is actually the worst offender because it enters your eyes from above, the same angle as a high-noon sun. In our house, we turn off all overhead lights by around 6 or 7 pm and switch to floor and table lamps, positioning them below eye level. The angle matters as much as the spectrum.

My Daily Lighting Schedule

The goal is to treat light as a biological input throughout the day, not just something that helps you see. Here’s how our household actually runs this.

  • Morning (wake – 9 am): Outside within 30 minutes of waking, no sunglasses, glasses, contacts, or windows. If I can’t get outside, I open all the curtains and stand near an open window. Full-spectrum or bright indoor lights are fine for this part of the day.
  • Daytime (9 am – ~5 pm): Natural light is always preferred. Standard indoor lighting for workspaces is fine. Screens are no issue during daylight hours.
  • Early evening (~6 pm): Overhead lights off. Amber lamps on. If I’m using screens, I have a blue-light filter enabled.
  • Late evening (8 pm – bed): Red or deep amber only in the bedroom and bathroom. No overhead lighting. This is the window where melatonin should be rising and I protect it carefully.
  • Overnight: Complete darkness. Blackout curtains. A dim red nightlight only if needed for kids navigating to the bathroom.

You don’t have to do all of this at once. The single highest-leverage starting point is swapping the bedroom and living room lamps to amber light bulbs before your usual bedtime. That’s where I started. Most people notice a difference within a few nights.

What to Look for When Buying (So You Don’t Waste Money)

I’ve tested enough amber bulbs to know that not all of them do what they claim. Here’s what actually matters:

  • Zero emissions below 530nm. This is the actual threshold for melatonin-safe light. Look for this in the spectral data, not just in marketing copy. If a brand doesn’t publish its spectral chart, that’s a red flag.
  • Flicker-free certification. Cheap bulbs flicker at frequencies your eye can’t consciously detect, but that may contribute to headaches, eye strain, and nervous system load. Confirm the bulb is tested and confirmed flicker-free.
  • Low EMF. Smart color-changing bulbs that use WiFi or Bluetooth to shift their spectrum emit significantly higher EMF than standard bulbs. I avoid them in bedrooms specifically.
  • Color temperature alone isn’t enough. A 2700K rating means the light looks warm; it doesn’t mean it’s low-blue. Demand actual spectral data, not just a Kelvin number.
  • Avoid the “colored shell” trick. A standard LED inside an amber or red plastic bulb will filter some blue light, but it won’t eliminate it. You want a bulb engineered at the spectral level, not just painted.

The Science: Why Light Is a Cellular Input, Not Just a Convenience

I’ve written about blue light and circadian rhythm in detail before, but here’s the condensed version for anyone coming to this fresh:

Your circadian clock, housed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, runs on a roughly 24-hour cycle, but it needs daily calibration from light to stay synchronized with the actual day. Morning light, especially the blue-wavelength spike at sunrise, resets the clock and triggers the cortisol pulse that wakes you up properly.

Everything downstream, including hormone production, immune function, overnight cellular repair, and metabolism, is organized around that signal.

In the evening, the same clock is meant to detect the absence of blue light as a sunset cue. Melatonin rises. Cortisol drops. Growth hormone prepares to pulse. Your brain’s glymphatic system begins clearing waste. Your body runs a very specific repair sequence overnight, and it depends entirely on melatonin starting on time.

When your home lighting keeps emitting blue wavelengths after sunset, melatonin is delayed, sometimes by 90 minutes or more. You’re not just staying up late. You’re postponing the entire repair cascade that should have started hours ago.

Switching your lights doesn’t solve everything. But it removes one of the most consistent nightly disruptors of the system that heals you while you sleep. For me personally, it was one of the highest-leverage changes I made, and one of the least expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I change every bulb in the house?

You don’t have to. I started with the rooms we’re in during the two to three hours before bed, like the living room, bedroom, and bathroom. The garage, laundry room, and spaces we use briefly don’t need to change. I wanted to get those three spaces right first.

Is amber light bright enough to actually see by?

Yes! Good-quality amber bulbs provide enough light for cooking, reading, and normal evening activities. Colors render slightly differently (reds and yellows look rich, blues and greens go flat), but it’s perfectly functional. If you need more brightness for detailed work, a dedicated desk lamp with a red-spectrum bulb placed close to your task works well too. I like this option better than increasing overhead lighting.

What about blue-light blocking glasses… can I just use those instead?

Glasses help, but they’re a partial solution since they only protect the eyes. Your skin also contains photoreceptors that communicate with the circadian system. Glasses alone don’t give the full benefit of changing the light source itself. I use both: amber glasses when I have to be on screens in the evening, and amber bulbs for the general environment.

Can I just use a dimmer with my existing bulbs?

Dimming reduces total light intensity, which helps, but it doesn’t change the wavelength composition. A dimmed standard LED still emits the same proportion of blue light, just less of it. It’s better than full brightness, but not the same as a true amber spectrum.

What about smart bulbs that change color temperature?

Color-tunable smart bulbs can help, but most still emit residual blue wavelengths even at their warmest setting. And they use WiFi or Bluetooth, which I prefer to minimize in bedrooms. The dedicated amber and red bulbs I use are simpler, have lower EMF, and, in my testing, work better.

Is this safe for kids?

Yes! Honestly, I think it’s especially important for kids, whose circadian systems are still developing and who are often more sensitive to the stimulating effects of blue light before bed. My kids have had amber bedroom lamps for years. The warm light genuinely seems to help them wind down, which tracks with what the science says.

How quickly will I notice a difference?

Most people notice changes in how easily they fall asleep within a few nights of consistent amber lighting in the two hours before bed. If you’re already doing the other sleep fundamentals (no food close to bedtime, a cool room, total darkness), this is often the missing piece that makes them all click into place.

Shop the Full List

Have you switched to amber lighting? What difference did you notice, and what products do you love? Leave a comment and let me know. I read every single one.

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carrot cake

Brown Butter Carrot Cake with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting

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Carrots are one of our favorite vegetables and I’ll often make recipes like carrot coulis, carrot salad, or roasted carrots. This homemade carrot cake is another way to enjoy all that carrots have to offer. It’s simple to make, moist, and full of delicious flavors. 

Years ago I came up with a grain and gluten-free carrot cake with pineapple. That recipe used coconut flour and lots of eggs for protein. While I still like that recipe and make it on occasion, I wanted to have another carrot cake recipe on hand that was more traditional. 

Carrot Cake Ingredients

Now that our family includes some organic flour on occasion, I’ve been making more baked goods with it. It’s an easy way to make a healthier dessert that has the same taste and texture as traditional desserts. That doesn’t mean it’s packed with sugar, vegetable oils, or other ingredients I prefer to avoid though!

Carrot cake ingredients typically include flour, sugar, carrots, spices, oil, and eggs. Then there are the optional mix-ins like raisins, pineapple, and shredded coconut. This recipe is very similar, but I’ve opted for raw honey instead of sugar. And it uses butter instead of vegetable oil. Applesauce adds a little more moisture and natural sweetness. 

Need a gluten-free carrot cake? Simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the organic all-purpose flour. 

How to Make Carrot Cake

The long list of ingredients can be intimidating at first, but this really is a simple recipe. You’re basically combining all of the wet ingredients, then combining all of the dry ingredients, then adding them together. Finally, you’ll stir in the mix-ins like carrots, raisins, and coconut. 

There is the additional step of browning the butter first, which really adds an extra layer of flavor to the cake. Browned butter tastes a lot like caramel, but without the extra sugar. 

Tip: When you’re browning the butter, be sure to keep a close eye on it. It needs to be removed from the stove after it’s browned, but before it’s gotten really dark brown (aka burnt). Because burnt butter carrot cake is not delicious. 

Cream Cheese Frosting For Carrot Cake (Without Refined Sugar)

Carrot cake wouldn’t be what it is without the iconic cream cheese frosting. It adds a nice tang to the sweetness, so the dessert isn’t overwhelmingly sweet. Most cream cheese frosting recipes call for powdered sugar to help thicken and make it spreadable. My version uses raw honey for sweetness and butter for a buttercream frosting consistency.  I prefer honey in this recipe, but maple syrup would taste good too. 

Instead of powdered sugar to thicken, I used arrowroot starch (also known as arrowroot flour). It helps to thicken without making the frosting super sweet. Start with 2 Tablespoons of arrowroot and add more as needed to get the right consistency. You want it to be thick enough it won’t fall down the cake, but not so thick that it’s difficult to spread. 

Different Pan Options

This cake is 4 layers high because I like the look of the extra layers. If you don’t have four 6-inch cake pans, then two 9-inch round pans will also work. Simply change the bake time to 30-35 minutes if using 9-inch pans. If you want to make cupcakes, then bake for 18-22 minutes.

You could also make a sheet pan carrot cake, but I haven’t personally tried it. Let me know if you do! If you’re craving carrot cake or need a fancy (but easy!) spring dessert, then give this carrot cake a try. 

Brown Butter Carrot Cake With Honey Cream Cheese Frosting

This delicious carrot cake is moist and naturally sweetened with honey and

Honey Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Melt the butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally, until it foams and turns golden with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and pour into a large mixing bowl, allowing it to cool for about 5 minutes.

  • Grate the carrots using the medium holes of a box grater.

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease and line four 6-inch cake pans (or see notes for other pan options).

  • To the cooled brown butter, whisk in the honey or maple syrup, applesauce, eggs, coconut milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the grated carrots, chopped nuts, raisins, and shredded coconut if using.

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 24–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

  • To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the honey, vanilla, salt, and arrowroot starch, and continue beating until light, fluffy, and spreadable. Start with 2 Tablespoons of arrowroot and increase as needed to thicken the frosting to the desired consistency.

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers. Apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to set before finishing with the remaining frosting.

Nutrition Facts

Brown Butter Carrot Cake With Honey Cream Cheese Frosting

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 399
Calories from Fat 234

% Daily Value*

Fat 26g40%

Saturated Fat 15g94%

Trans Fat 0.4g

Polyunsaturated Fat 3g

Monounsaturated Fat 6g

Cholesterol 86mg29%

Sodium 306mg13%

Potassium 254mg7%

Carbohydrates 39g13%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 20g22%

Protein 6g12%

Vitamin A 3410IU68%

Vitamin C 2mg2%

Calcium 70mg7%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

  • Garnish with toasted nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey if desired.
  • Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
  • You can also make this in two 9-inch round cake pans.

Does Carrot Cake Need to Be Refrigerated?

Since this recipe uses cream cheese, any leftovers should be refrigerated. I’ve also found that cakes/muffins made with applesauce or other fruit as a sweetener spoil faster at room temperature. How long does it last in the refrigerator? Well, as long as your family doesn’t eat it right away, it will last for up to a week!

It tastes best at room temperature though, so I like to pull it out and let the slice warm up before eating. 

Can You Freeze Carrot Cake? 

Yes, and no. Some recommend freezing the unfrosted and cooled cake layers or individual slices. They’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer this way. It is not recommended to freeze a whole, frosted carrot cake. The frosting can crack and it may not look as pretty, but it will still be tasty. Just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. 

What are some of your favorite carrot recipes? Leave a comment and let us know!

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hyaluronic acid niacinamide

Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide Moisturizer

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Once upon a time I created a hyaluronic acid serum in my kitchen, then later made a niacinamide moisturizer. I’m a big fan of DIY kitchen concoctions (as you can tell by now!). One of the most asked questions I got on those recipes was how to combine the two active ingredients.

This HA and niacinamide moisturizer does just that. You get all of the hydrating benefits of HA and the skin boosting benefits of niacinamide in one easy lotion.

Marrying Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a form of the water soluble vitamin B3. We need it in our diets, but it also has some impressive skin benefits. Research has found niacinamide can help with hyperpigmentation to make skin tone more even. Other studies show it improved the skin barrier and rosacea symptoms. 

It also decreases moisture loss and improves acne and blemishes. A 2005 study found that women who used niacinamide on skin had significant skin benefits. They had better skin tone, fewer lines and wrinkles, and better elasticity. 

Our skin naturally contains hyaluronic acid (HA) and it’s a big part of our skin and dermal metabolism. HA plays a key role in wound healing and tissue repair and stimulates growth. 

Both hyaluronic acid and niacinamide add moisture to skin, lower inflammation and stimulate collagen. They complement each other well and are often combined or layered together. Hyaluronic acid is a good humectant, while niacinamide also improves overall skin health. 

More Skin Loving Ingredients

While hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are the active ingredients, they need a little help to become a moisturizer. I’ve opted for a blend of oils, shea butter, beeswax and water that makes skin feel soft and moisturized. 

Carrier oil – this provides the bulk of the lotion. Sweet almond, grapeseed, olive, or avocado are some good options. I like avocado and olive oil for drier skin types. 

Shea butter – Smooth and creamy, shea butter is full of essential fatty acids, softens skin, and reduces inflammation. 

Hydrosol or distilled water – This helps to thin the lotion and incorporate the water soluble HA and niacinamide. Hydrosols are the plant waters leftover from essential oil distillation. They offer many of the same skin benefits but are much gentler on skin. 

Tamanu oil – Tamanu is a dark, rich color and is great for acne prone skin or aging skin. It has skin regenerative properties and its rich in antioxidants. If you don’t have any, then jojoba, apricot kernel, or any other skin oil will work. The idea is to give the cream an extra boost of concentrated active ingredients.

Adding Essential Oils

I love adding essential oils to my DIY products. They not only smell nice but they’re antimicrobial, improve skin health, and uplift the mood. Some of my favorite skin-friendly essential oils include lavender, wild orange, frankincense, and geranium. 

The essential oils are diluted to about 2% in this recipe, but you can cut the amount in half if you have more sensitive skin. 

Tips for Making Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide Moisturizer

I’ll often stick to easy oil based “lotions” like my favorite basic lotion recipe. While they’re technically not lotion since they don’t have any water, they do last much longer. That won’t work for this recipe though since both hyaluronic acid and niacinamide dissolve in water, not oil. 

Unfortunately, water based products have a much shorter shelf life. This moisturizer combines the best of both worlds and uses mostly oils, waxes, and butters with enough water to dissolve the active ingredients. Water also helps it to feel lighter on the skin so it sinks in beautifully. 

I’ve also opted for some emulsifying wax to help combine the water and oils together. Without it the moisturizer separates and doesn’t work. Beeswax helps to thicken the lotion, but it doesn’t replace the emulsifying wax. 

An Important Note on Preservatives

Since this recipe includes water, it does need a preservative. Bacteria can start to grow in water within minutes under the right conditions. By storing the item properly, using distilled water (or better yet, hydrosol), and a natural preservative, it greatly extends the shelf life. 

Leucidal Plus is a good broad spectrum preservative I’ve used before. A lot of people ask about using rosemary extract or vitamin E instead, but those aren’t actually preservatives. They help slow oxidation and preserve the shelf life of oils, but they won’t prevent microbes from growing in water. 

If you don’t want to use the preservative, then store the lotion in the fridge and use it within 2 weeks. That said, a preservative is the safer option. 

Here’s how to make it!

Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide Moisturizer

This silky smooth lotion helps hydrate skin and lock in moisture. And it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy!

Active Time20 minutes

Cooling Time10 minutes

Yield: 4 ounces

Author: Katie Wells

  • To the top of the double boiler add: shea butter, tamanu, avocado oil, emulsifying wax, and beeswax. Heat over medium heat until completely melted, stirring ocassionally.

  • Add the water or hydrosol, niacinamide powder, Leucidal Plus, and hyaluronic acid powder to another bowl and whisk to combine. Set aside.

  • Once the oil based ingredients are melted, pour the mixture into the bowl of the stand mixer. Cool in the freezer for about 10 minutes or until firm, but not frozen.

  • Add the essential oil. Using the whisk attachment on your mixer, whisk the oil based ingredients until smooth, creamy, and white.

  • Slowly add the water mixture to the mixer as it’s whisking. Whisk for about 1 minute or until thoroughly combined.

  • Pour the lotion into a clean jar.

This recipe is versatile. Use your favorite skin-friendly essential oil and carrier oils to customize the skin benefits!

Shelf Life and Storage

Like any skincare product this needs to be stored away from direct light and heat. Aka not next to a steamy shower or in the car! Also, be sure to use clean, dry hands when scooping any out of the jar to help prevent contamination. 

You can store the lotion in a pump lotion bottle or a squeeze bottle with a large enough opening. This helps to reduce any germs from hands getting in the jar.

What are some of your favorite DIY skincare items to make? Leave a comment and let us know!

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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 592 – Yummy Easter Desserts

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Welcome to Homestead Blog Hop, a weekly gathering for homesteaders and simple living enthusiasts to share DIY projects, from-scratch recipes, and creative inspiration. This week’s hop features cozy homesteading tips, along with practical ideas that celebrate handmade living and self-sufficiency.

Whether you’re looking for seasonal crafts, homemade treats, or encouragement on your homesteading journey, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to carry into the new year. Grab a cup of tea, explore the featured posts, and join us in sharing your own homestead creations.

Meet Your Homesteading Hosts

We’re Kelly from Simple Life Mom, Liz from The Cape Coop, Natasha from Houseful of Nicholes, and Laurie from Ridgehaven Homestead. Together, we’re passionate about from-scratch living, simple ingredients, frugal habits, and intentional homesteading. We’re delighted to host the Homestead Blog Hop, where you can find fresh inspiration each week for DIY projects, homemade recipes, and practical simple living ideas.

Follow Us for More Homestead Inspiration

Natasha – Houseful of Nicholes
Facebook | Pinterest | X | Instagram

Laurie – Ridge Haven Homestead
Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram

Liz – The Cape Coop
Facebook | Pinterest | X | Instagram

Kelly – Simple Life Mom
Facebook | Pinterest | X | Instagram

FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week, we take turns selecting three featured posts from the Homestead Blog Hop. These features are shared across all of our social media platforms, helping spotlight the creativity and hard work of our fellow homesteaders. Here are the featured posts from last week’s hop:

1. Bunny Butt Chocolate Covered Easter Oreos from Hunny I’m Home

2. Easter Pudding Cups from Walking on Sunshine

3. Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats from Crystal and Co

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for the Homestead Blog Hop

  1. Click the “Add Your Link” button below and upload a clear, eye-catching image from your project or recipe. Please link directly to the family-friendly post itself, not your blog’s homepage.
  2. You may link up up to three posts each week.
  3. Take time to visit a few other blogs in the hop and leave a thoughtful comment to let them know you stopped by. Community support makes this hop special!
  4. Please include a link back to the Homestead Blog Hop in your post. Posts without a backlink are not eligible to be featured. All featured posts are shared across all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Share posts that haven’t been linked to the hop before. Older posts are welcome as long as they are new to the hop.
  6. By joining the Homestead Blog Hop, you grant the hosts permission to use one image from your post, with a link back to your site, if your post is selected as a feature next week.
  7. This is a family-friendly link-up designed to encourage, inspire, and support the homesteader in all of us.

Let the Party Begin!

Which project are you excited to try this week? Leave a comment below.

Join Our Homestead Blog Hop Pinterest Board

Follow all of your hosts on Pinterest and send a message if you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. This board is a great place to share your DIY projects, crafts, and from-scratch recipes with the homesteading community.

Guideline: Only pin posts that you’ve linked up to the Homestead Blog Hop.

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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 591 – Seed Bombs and Spring Projects

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Welcome to Homestead Blog Hop, a weekly gathering for homesteaders and simple living enthusiasts to share DIY projects, from-scratch recipes, and creative inspiration. This week’s hop features cozy homesteading tips, along with practical ideas that celebrate handmade living and self-sufficiency.

Whether you’re looking for seasonal crafts, homemade treats, or encouragement on your homesteading journey, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to carry into the new year. Grab a cup of tea, explore the featured posts, and join us in sharing your own homestead creations.

Meet Your Homesteading Hosts

We’re Kelly from Simple Life Mom, Liz from The Cape Coop, Natasha from Houseful of Nicholes, and Laurie from Ridgehaven Homestead. Together, we’re passionate about from-scratch living, simple ingredients, frugal habits, and intentional homesteading. We’re delighted to host the Homestead Blog Hop, where you can find fresh inspiration each week for DIY projects, homemade recipes, and practical simple living ideas.

Follow Us for More Homestead Inspiration

Natasha – Houseful of Nicholes
Facebook | Pinterest | X | Instagram

Laurie – Ridge Haven Homestead
Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram

Liz – The Cape Coop
Facebook | Pinterest | X | Instagram

Kelly – Simple Life Mom
Facebook | Pinterest | X | Instagram

FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week, we take turns selecting three featured posts from the Homestead Blog Hop. These features are shared across all of our social media platforms, helping spotlight the creativity and hard work of our fellow homesteaders. Here are the featured posts from last week’s hop:

1. Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup from Recipes Simple

2. Upcycle A Coffee Can: Painted Vase for Spring Flowers from Petticoat Junktion

3. Seed Bombs- Simple Pre-Spring Project Kids Can Do from Once and Future Homestead

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for the Homestead Blog Hop

  1. Click the “Add Your Link” button below and upload a clear, eye-catching image from your project or recipe. Please link directly to the family-friendly post itself, not your blog’s homepage.
  2. You may link up up to three posts each week.
  3. Take time to visit a few other blogs in the hop and leave a thoughtful comment to let them know you stopped by. Community support makes this hop special!
  4. Please include a link back to the Homestead Blog Hop in your post. Posts without a backlink are not eligible to be featured. All featured posts are shared across all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Share posts that haven’t been linked to the hop before. Older posts are welcome as long as they are new to the hop.
  6. By joining the Homestead Blog Hop, you grant the hosts permission to use one image from your post, with a link back to your site, if your post is selected as a feature next week.
  7. This is a family-friendly link-up designed to encourage, inspire, and support the homesteader in all of us.

Let the Party Begin!

Which project are you excited to try this week? Leave a comment below.

Join Our Homestead Blog Hop Pinterest Board

Follow all of your hosts on Pinterest and send a message if you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. This board is a great place to share your DIY projects, crafts, and from-scratch recipes with the homesteading community.

Guideline: Only pin posts that you’ve linked up to the Homestead Blog Hop.

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How to Make Herbes de Provence at Home

Homemade Herbes de Provence Spice Mix Recipe

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I’m never without homemade herbes de Provence in our kitchen. Abundant in the south of France, this spice mix really speaks to my love of French cooking. I use it in just about anything I can!

My mom’s French heritage was a big influence growing up, and because of her, I will always have a soft spot for French dishes like boeuf bourguignon and pâté. I’m no Julia Child (or even Martha Stewart for that matter!), but I do try to incorporate French recipes in our meal plan whenever possible.

Many people think French cooking is fussy or difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. 

The French Cure for Picky Eaters

I’ve always been fascinated by French food culture and how even children in France typically like a wide variety of foods. We can learn a lot from the French, especially in how we teach our children to view food. I actually devoted a part of my Wellness Mama Cookbook to this topic!

A big part of raising non-picky eaters is exposing kids to well-rounded, varied flavors—like those in this seasoning blend. 

What is Herbs de Provence?

The blend originated in the south, or Provence region, of France, and is made up of herbs that naturally grow in that area. The original blend of herbs de Provence ingredients contained summer savory, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary. Later on, lavender, fennel, and even orange zest were added to certain versions. Many of the herbs de Provence spice blends at the grocery stores include lavender and other herbs. 

Not only do they taste good, but these herbs have strong antimicrobial properties to help the immune system do its job. Among many other things, rosemary helps with memory, thyme is great for the lungs, and marjoram helps relax nervous tension. Lavender is also good for stress relief, orange zest is uplifting, and fennel helps aid digestion. Together, they make for a powerful and tasty spice blend. 

Herbs de Provence vs Italian Seasoning

While I love both seasonings, they definitely have some differences. Italian seasoning also includes thyme and rosemary, but you’ll often find spicy oregano and basil in there too. And most versions of Italian seasoning don’t include marjoram or summer savory (and certainly not lavender)!

If you need an herbs de Provence substitute, the simplest recipe is summer savory, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary.

How to Make Herbs de Provence

It’s very simple, but it does require an extra step compared to many of my spice blend recipes. Usually I just add all of the herbs to a jar, shake, and voila… done. Since these herbs are often whole, like fennel seeds or lavender buds, I do a quick run through the food processor first. Not only does it make them easier to use in recipes, but freshly ground herbs are more fragrant and flavorful. Blending or chopping herbs releases more of their volatile oils so they taste fresher. 

So what is herbes de Provence for anyway, besides sounding fancy? The answer is a lot!

How to Use This Homemade Seasoning

Herbes de Provence is very versatile. It can be described as bold, woodsy, and a little bit floral. It pairs well with almost any cut of meat (especially pork and chicken recipes) and really complements most fish and seafood. I often add it to homemade soups and broths too.

We love to pre-mix a little into grass-fed butter and keep it at the ready for topping veggies, sourdough bread, or cauliflower rice. It also makes a great addition to breakfast dishes like my favorite sous vide egg bites or homemade breakfast sausage.

Try adding herbs de Provence compound butter to a roast chicken before putting it in the oven. Since the herbs are chunkier, not quite powdered, they work best when added to the beginning of recipes. This gives them a chance to infuse their flavors into the dish. It’s equally delicious on roasted vegetables or potatoes. 

A bonus… not only is it healthy and tastes good, but it fills the kitchen with amazing smells!

You can certainly buy it from the store, but this homemade herbes de Provence spice blend and other homemade spice blends are a great way to save time and money. And this way, you know exactly how long it’s been sitting on the shelf! It’s also a fun and easy kitchen project kids can help make.

Homemade Herbs de Provence Recipe

Homemade herbs de Provence combines herbs like thyme and marjoram with lavender, fennel, and orange zest for a savory and flavorful spice blend.

  • Use a mortar and pestle or a food processor to lightly grind any herbs that are whole, such as the rosemary, lavender flowers, or fennel. The herbs should be coarse, not finely ground.

  • If you are zesting the orange yourself, remove the zest of one organic orange and dry it in an oven on lowest setting or a dehydrator until completely dry.

  • Combine all ingredients in a jar or bowl and mix.

  • Store in an airtight container away from heat and light.

Nutrition Facts

Homemade Herbs de Provence Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 tsp)

Calories 9
Calories from Fat 2

% Daily Value*

Fat 0.2g0%

Saturated Fat 0.1g1%

Polyunsaturated Fat 0.04g

Monounsaturated Fat 0.01g

Sodium 2mg0%

Potassium 28mg1%

Carbohydrates 2g1%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 0.04g0%

Protein 0.3g1%

Vitamin A 131IU3%

Vitamin C 2mg2%

Calcium 60mg6%

Iron 3mg17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

  • Mix a teaspoon or two of this flavorful herb blend into softened butter for topping vegetables, season chicken or seafood, or use it to make your own breakfast sausage. 
  • The total yield for this recipe is about 1/2 cup plus 2 teaspoons of herbs de Provence. 

Herbs de Provence Alternate Recipe

I’ll often buy my herbs in bulk online, but sometimes savory can be difficult to find at your local store. If you’re looking for a recipe without summer savory or just something new to try, I like this blend too. Simply process, mix, and store like the above recipe. All of the following herbs are dried:

  • 2 TBSP thyme
  • 2 TBSP rosemary
  • 1 TBSP basil
  • 1 TBSP oregano
  • 1 TBSP summer savory (optional but traditional)
  • 1 tsp marjoram (optional)
  • 1 tsp lavender buds (optional)

Have you ever used herbes de Provence? What French flavors do you love?

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DIY Ayurvedic Shampoo for Strong, Healthy Hair

DIY Ayurvedic Shampoo for Strong, Healthy Hair

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My journey to creating homemade shampoo involved a lot of trial and error. There were countless mixtures of liquid castile soap, coconut milk, essential oils, and the occasional splash of olive oil – all of which left my scalp and hair a confused mix of dry, oily, and limp.

Eventually I created this pure coconut oil shampoo bar, which worked beautifully for many years.

Until it didn’t.

Why My Hair Routine Needed a Reset

Over the past year or so, my scalp started changing in ways I didn’t expect. Hormonal shifts during perimenopause can make the scalp more reactive and sensitive, and almost overnight my old routine – which I had used for many years without issue – suddenly started making my scalp itch.

Nothing seemed to help – not my shampoo bar, not the non-toxic, professionally formulated shampoos I tried, and not changing how frequently I washed.

So I started experimenting again.

That eventually led me to the Ayurvedic hair mask recipes I shared recently → you can find them here.

They soothed my scalp and left my hair feeling soft and light, but they also had a couple of drawbacks: they could be a little messy to apply (and sometimes left me rinsing the shower afterward), and they took a bit of time to wash out completely. If I rushed it, I’d sometimes find a little dried mask in my hair later.

So I began experimenting with a simplified version that could be used more like shampoo.

The result is the recipe below.

It takes a little preparation, but it’s still very simple overall and rinses out easily, with no extra cleanup needed.

Is This Really Shampoo?

Sometimes when I share a recipe, like this gluten-free “cornbread,” I’ll get a few comments saying “but that doesn’t have any corn in it!” And it’s true.

I love corn, but it doesn’t love me back, so I developed the recipe to get as close to the taste and texture of cornbread as possible without actually using corn. That’s what the quotation marks are for: it’s cornbread-ish, but not technically cornbread.

So . . . is this really shampoo?

Oddly enough, yes.

In fact, some variation of this recipe is very close to the original shampoo.

The earliest forms of shampoo were likely developed in ancient India – sometime during the Indus Valley Civilization – by boiling herbs such as soapberries (reetha), shikakai – which literally translates to “fruit for hair” – and Indian gooseberry (amla), all ingredients that appear in this recipe.

The word shampoo itself comes from the Hindi word chāmpo, meaning “to massage” or “to press.” British traders encountered the practice of hair washing and scalp massage in India and eventually brought “champing” to Europe in the 1700s.

A Simple Herbal “Hair Tea”

This recipe doesn’t have the thick, goopy texture of commercial shampoo – some people even describe it as a “hair tea.”

However, the herbs in this blend are well known for helping to cleanse, moisturize, and volumize hair.

Several contain saponins, which are natural plant compounds that act as mild surfactants – gently lifting away dirt and oil. That’s why this recipe creates suds – but not the dramatic foam that commercial detergents produce.

So while it may feel unusual compared with modern shampoo and doesn’t lather the way most of us are used to, it actually resembles the original versions much more closely.

And in my experience, it cleans hair just as well – better, in fact. My hair feels light, soft, and shiny, without the buildup that many modern shampoos can leave behind.

And unlike some DIY shampoo formulas, this recipe is completely beginner-friendly.

No complicated formulation.
No soapmaking skills required.

Just herbs, hot water, and something to strain with.

A Quick Note About Hair Color

Amla and shikakai have traditionally been used as natural pigment enhancers, meaning they may gradually deepen hair color over time.

I naturally have very dark hair and haven’t noticed any change in color.

However, if you have lighter hair (and want to keep it that way), you may want to:

  • omit the amla powder
  • reduce the shikakai slightly
  • increase the reetha powder a bit

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that reetha contains more natural saponins than shikakai and provides stronger cleansing, so too much can feel slightly drying.

Experiment and Find What Works for You

Everyone’s hair is a little different, so think of this recipe as a starting point rather than a rigid formula.

It’s what works best for my hair after a lot of trial and error, but you should feel completely free to adjust it based on what your hair needs.

If your hair tends to feel dry, try adding a little more aloe or amla. If it leans oily, you can increase the reetha slightly.

A little experimenting goes a long way, so feel free to play with the ratios and see what your hair loves most.

About the Ingredients

Here’s a quick look at what each ingredient brings to the recipe.

Shikakai Powder
Shikakai (Acacia concinna) has been used in Ayurvedic hair care for centuries as a gentle cleanser and conditioner. It contains natural saponins that help remove light buildup without stripping the scalp’s natural oils, and may help create the conditions that allow your natural hair growth cycle to function more optimally.

Many people find it leaves hair soft, smooth, and easy to detangle. It’s also a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for dandruff. One important note: avoid getting shikakai in your eyes, as it can be very irritating.

Reetha (Soapnuts)
Also called soapberry or soapnut, reetha is one of nature’s richest sources of saponins. In traditional hair care it’s often paired with shikakai to balance cleansing with conditioning.

Flax Seeds or Fenugreek Seeds
These seeds release a natural gel when steeped in hot water. That gel adds slip and conditioning to the shampoo, making it easier to spread through the hair. I prefer flax seeds in this recipe, but fenugreek also has a long history in Ayurvedic hair care for supporting scalp health and helping hair feel stronger.

Aloe Vera Powder
Aloe adds hydration and conditioning while helping soothe irritated scalps. It can also add a little shine and smoothness to the hair.

Amla Powder
Amla (Indian gooseberry) is rich in antioxidants and is traditionally used in Ayurvedic hair care to support scalp health and enhance shine.

Two Ways To Make This Herbal Shampoo

You can make this shampoo two different ways depending on how strong or thick you want it to be.

Method 1 is the simplest version. It uses boiling water to extract the beneficial compounds from the herbs and works well for most people.

Method 2 simmers the herbs on the stovetop, which pulls out more of the natural saponins and the moisturizing gel-like compounds released by the seeds. The result is a slightly thicker, more “activated” shampoo that some people find provides a little more cleansing or conditioning power.

DIY Natural Shampoo Recipe

Here’s how to make your own shampoo with Ayurvedic herbs and hot water.

Prep Time 5 minutes Cook Time 20 minutes Cooling time 30 minutes Total Time 55 minutes

Author Heather Dessinger, FDN-P

Method 1: Quick Infusion (No Stovetop)

  • Line a mason jar or measuring cup with a nut milk bag. If you don’t have one, you can use a mesh strainer and cheesecloth to strain it after infusion.

  • Place the shikakai powder, reetha powder, and flax seeds inside the nut milk bag.

  • Bring 1¼ cups water to a boil, then pour it over the herbs and stir to combine.

  • Allow the mixture to cool for about 20 minutes, then stir in the aloe vera powder and amla powder if using.

  • Let the mixture infuse for another 10 minutes.

  • Strain through the nut milk bag. If you don’t have one, you can also strain by pouring the mixture over bowl that contains a mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth.

  • Once it has fully cooled, your shampoo is ready to use.

Method 2: Simmered Herbal Shampoo (Stovetop)

  • Place the shikakai powder, reetha powder, and flax seeds in medium pot. Add 1.5 cups water and stir to combine.

  • Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

  • While the mixture is simmering, line a mason jar or measuring cup with a nut milk bag. If you don’t have one, you can use a mesh strainer and cheesecloth to strain it after infusion.

  • Remove the mixture from heat and pour it into the nut milk bag, using a spoon transfer any herbs that have settled at the bottom. If you don’t have a nut milk bag, you can pour the mixture into a mason jar.

  • Allow the mixture to cool for about 20 minutes, then stir in the aloe vera powder and amla powder if using.

  • Let the mixture infuse for another 10 minutes.

  • Strain through the nut milk bag. The mixture becomes thicker as it cools, so I recommend straining while it’s warm yet comfortable to touch. If you don’t have a nut milk bag, you can also strain by pouring the mixture over bowl that contains a mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth.

  • Your shampoo is ready to use.

Some people apply variations of this recipe to dry hair. Personally, I prefer to wet my hair first, then wring it out until it’s damp.

I shake the bottle a little, then apply about 3/4 of the shampoo to my scalp and roots – focusing mostly on the scalp. After application, I massage gently and let it sit for a few minutes. I have found that an application bottle (like this one made with PET plastic) helps distribute the shampoo more evenly, but you can use a measuring cup or something similar if you’d like.

Then I rinse while continuing to massage my scalp.

After that, I add some water to the remaining shampoo in the bottle and shake it to get a lot of suds going. I apply that all over my scalp and hair, let it sit for a couple minutes, and then rinse.

I typically use this recipe 1-3 times per week.

Is this good for all hair types?

Generally yes, although you may need to adjust the ratios.

For example, if your hair tends to be dry, adding aloe or amla can help increase conditioning.

If your hair tends to be oily, slightly increasing the reetha may help.

One thing to keep in mind: if you currently use products that coat the hair with silicones or dimethicone, your hair may go through a short transition period while that buildup gradually washes away.

What is the shelf life?

This recipe doesn’t contain preservatives, so I usually make it fresh.

However, once you’ve confirmed the recipe works well for your hair, you can freeze small batches and thaw them as needed.

Do I need to follow this with an apple cider vinegar rinse?

Not necessarily.

Unlike shampoo bars, which are alkaline and often require an acidic rinse to rebalance hair pH, this recipe is already within a hair-friendly pH range.

That said, some people enjoy following shikakai-based cleansers with a diluted ACV rinse. If that’s something you already like, feel free to experiment.

Do I need to use conditioner?

I don’t usually, but I do use the herbs above – plus a few more – in different ratios to whip up a moisturizing hair mask every week or two as needed.

In the summer, when I spend a lot of time in the sun/saltwater at my local beach, my ends will get a little dry. When that happens, I apply the shampoo recipe above and then dip my ends in a little coconut milk (guar gum-free) while I’m letting it sit. That adds a little moisture without weighing my hair down. This leave-in conditioner recipe also works really well for dry ends.

More Body & Hair Care Recipes To Try

Hair Gel – Tame flyaway frizz, keep curls in check, or style short hair with a non-toxic version of your favorite store-bought stuff. Many of the styling gels on store shelves contain hormone disrupting fragrances and formaldehyde releasers, but you can make natural hair gel with just 1-3 simple ingredients.

Body Wash – The rich, bubbly lather of this homemade body wash recipe cleanses while moisturizing. You probably have everything you need to make it in your pantry right now.

Bakuchiol Skincare Serum – If you’re looking for a gentle, effective way to support skin elasticity and firmness, even out skin tone and protect your skin barrier, bakuchiol is a bioactive compound worth getting excited about. Often called a natural alternative to retinol, it works with your skin’s natural regenerative processes to create change over time.

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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 590 – Irish Soda Bread and Printables

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Welcome to Homestead Blog Hop, a weekly gathering for homesteaders and simple living enthusiasts to share DIY projects, from-scratch recipes, and creative inspiration. This week’s hop features cozy homesteading tips, along with practical ideas that celebrate handmade living and self-sufficiency.

Whether you’re looking for seasonal crafts, homemade treats, or encouragement on your homesteading journey, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to carry into the new year. Grab a cup of tea, explore the featured posts, and join us in sharing your own homestead creations.

Meet Your Homesteading Hosts

We’re Kelly from Simple Life Mom, Liz from The Cape Coop, Natasha from Houseful of Nicholes, and Laurie from Ridgehaven Homestead. Together, we’re passionate about from-scratch living, simple ingredients, frugal habits, and intentional homesteading. We’re delighted to host the Homestead Blog Hop, where you can find fresh inspiration each week for DIY projects, homemade recipes, and practical simple living ideas.

Follow Us for More Homestead Inspiration

Natasha – Houseful of Nicholes
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Laurie – Ridge Haven Homestead
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Liz – The Cape Coop
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Kelly – Simple Life Mom
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FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week, we take turns selecting three featured posts from the Homestead Blog Hop. These features are shared across all of our social media platforms, helping spotlight the creativity and hard work of our fellow homesteaders. Here are the featured posts from last week’s hop:

1. Oven Roasted Sweet Potato Steak Fries – Clean Eating & Paleo Fry Recipe from 3 Boys and a Dog

2. 10 St. Patrick’s Day Coloring Pages Full of Irish Charm from Press Print Party

3. Easy Irish Soda Bread Recipe with Simple Ingredients from Mommy Hates Cooking

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for the Homestead Blog Hop

  1. Click the “Add Your Link” button below and upload a clear, eye-catching image from your project or recipe. Please link directly to the family-friendly post itself, not your blog’s homepage.
  2. You may link up up to three posts each week.
  3. Take time to visit a few other blogs in the hop and leave a thoughtful comment to let them know you stopped by. Community support makes this hop special!
  4. Please include a link back to the Homestead Blog Hop in your post. Posts without a backlink are not eligible to be featured. All featured posts are shared across all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Share posts that haven’t been linked to the hop before. Older posts are welcome as long as they are new to the hop.
  6. By joining the Homestead Blog Hop, you grant the hosts permission to use one image from your post, with a link back to your site, if your post is selected as a feature next week.
  7. This is a family-friendly link-up designed to encourage, inspire, and support the homesteader in all of us.

Let the Party Begin!

Which project are you excited to try this week? Leave a comment below.

Join Our Homestead Blog Hop Pinterest Board

Follow all of your hosts on Pinterest and send a message if you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. This board is a great place to share your DIY projects, crafts, and from-scratch recipes with the homesteading community.

Guideline: Only pin posts that you’ve linked up to the Homestead Blog Hop.

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Chocolate_Chunk_Cookies

Brown Butter Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies

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The kids and I have been on a cookie testing spree lately. These brown butter chocolate chunk cookies with pistachios have made the cut. They’re sweet and savory in every bite and have layers of flavor. A fresh batch doesn’t last long around here!

Brown butter chocolate chunk cookies are thick and chewy with crispy edges and a soft center. I’ve made a few ingredient swaps to make this dessert a little healthier, but they’re still a treat we enjoy in moderation. 

Brown Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Salty, sweet, crunchy, chewy… you get all of the flavors and textures in one bite. Instead of brown sugar I used coconut sugar here. It has a similar flavor, but coconut sugar is a less processed option and has unique caramel undertones that really add to the cookie. I also added some collagen powder for a subtle protein boost. 

Dark chocolate chunks offer a bittersweet bite in every mouthful and add some healthy polyphenol antioxidants, magnesium, and micronutrients. They’re made with sea salt which offers electrolytes and a nice contrast to the sweet cookie. And the pistachio pieces are just the icing on top. They’re also salty but give it such a unique flavor. 

One of the biggest differences you’ll notice is that these use browned butter instead of regular. It offers such a richer depth of flavor, almost like caramel. Brown butter is easy enough to make, but you do want to keep a close eye on it as it cooks. You want to cook it (stirring constantly!) until you notice browned bits and it smells fragrant. Pull it off the stove at this point or you’ll have burnt butter, which does not taste as nice!

Tips For Making Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies

I recommend using chopped chocolate bars since it’s easier to find ones with 70% or more cocoa content. Bagged chocolate chunks also work. The taste of a good chocolate chunk cookie relies heavily on having good quality chocolate!

When you’re mixing the dough be sure not to overmix the flour, as this can overwork the gluten proteins and make for tough, hard cookies. If the dough feels too soft after mixing, chill it for 15–20 minutes before baking to prevent excess spreading. For even thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping.

Brown Butter Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These delicious chocolate chunk cookies have an extra depth of flavor thanks to the crunchy pistachios and flavorful browned butter.

  • Melt the butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it foams and turns golden brown (about 4–5 minutes), then remove from heat and let cool for 20–30 minutes.

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Whisk together the cooled browned butter, coconut sugar, and maple syrup, then add the egg and vanilla and whisk until smooth.

  • Stir in the flour (all-purpose or 1:1 gluten-free), collagen if using, baking soda, and salt until just combined, then fold in the chopped pistachios and dark chocolate.

  • Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet (about 2 Tablespoons each), chilling for 15–20 minutes first if the dough feels soft.

  • Bake for 10–13 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underdone. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and cool on a rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Brown Butter Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Amount Per Serving (1 cookie)

Calories 217
Calories from Fat 117

% Daily Value*

Fat 13g20%

Saturated Fat 7g44%

Trans Fat 0.3g

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 4g

Cholesterol 31mg10%

Sodium 394mg17%

Potassium 139mg4%

Carbohydrates 21g7%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 8g9%

Protein 4g8%

Vitamin A 244IU5%

Vitamin C 0.2mg0%

Calcium 20mg2%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping.

Shelf Life and Storage

I made a double batch of these to save some for later.  The dough freezes well. Scoop into balls and freeze, then bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time. 

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Looking for some more healthier cookie recipes? Here are some of our favorites!

What are your favorite cookies to make or eat? Leave a comment and let us know!

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get rid of ants

How to Get Rid of Ants Naturally

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Ants, ants, everywhere! Those pesky insects have a way of finding every little crack and opening right into your home. When spring comes around I’ll see an ant scout here and there and I want to nip it in the bud before they take over my life (and my kitchen counter).

Every spring I start getting questions about how to get rid of ants in the house, especially when they show up quickly and seem to multiply overnight. Sometimes they’re tiny and barely noticeable. Sometimes they’re small black ants marching in a perfect line. Occasionally they even have wings.

With little kids and pets spending plenty of time on the floor, I’m not about to sprinkle a pesticide around my home that will put them in danger.

But the ants…

Thankfully there are plenty of ways to get rid of ants without putting your family at risk. I’ve talked before about natural pest control, but today I am going to focus specifically on ants. How to get rid of ants in the kitchen, how to get rid of ants permanently, and even how to get rid of carpenter ants (if you suspect a larger infestation).

How Do Ants Come Into the House?

Ant colonies send out scouts to locate food sources. Those little bugs will zig and zag and probe their way until they find food to bring back to their colony, leaving a trail of pheromones behind them. Other ants will follow the trail leaving their own pheromones, making the trail stronger. Eventually all the little foragers are marching along, back and forth, taking all your goodies back to their home.

Fascinating and annoying all at once.

If you’ve ever wondered why you see one ant and then suddenly dozens, this is why. That single scout found something appealing on your counter, under the stove, or even tucked behind a plant on the windowsill. Soon, the whole crew is trekking inside your house like they’ve decided to move in. 

And it isn’t always obvious what they’re after. Sugar ants are often blamed for invading our honey jars or maple syrup, but ants are opportunistic. They’ll go after crumbs in the carpet, sticky spots on the floor, pet food bowls, and even residue left in the bathroom. I’ve found them near toothpaste drips and damp areas more than once.

Understanding how they operate is the first step in learning how to get rid of ants in the house for good.

How to Get Rid of Ants (Naturally, of Course!)

There are several approaches to naturally get rid of ants. First, repel them from coming into your home in the first place, then control and eradicate them once they are in. Finally, kill them at their source.

If you’re dealing with a larger species like carpenter ants (which can damage wood in bedroom walls or other structural areas), your strategy may need to be more aggressive. I’ll touch more on how to get rid of carpenter ants specifically below. For most common household ants, though, prevention is the best place to start. 

How to Repel Ants

The first step is to make sure any sweet ingredients in your home are sealed tight. Clean up the dribbles down the side of the honey jar and make sure your maple syrup lid is on tight. It’s also recommended to keep floors swept and all counters free of any food or drips, but that’s not usually practical or possible in a busy home like mine. Just do the best you can with this one.

When I’m focused on how to get rid of ants in kitchen, I pay special attention to:

  • Crumbs under appliance
  • Sticky cabinet handles
  • Pet food dishes
  • The trash can area
  • Any food prep areas on the counter

Even a small smear can attract a line of tiny visitors. Some ants are attracted to oils or proteins, so pay attention to all food, not just sugary ones. Here are some more ideas to prevent ants from coming into your home:

Create a Barrier

Many people have luck creating a barrier of something ants generally don’t like or won’t cross. Some examples would be drawing a chalk line or sprinkling cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or coffee grounds along common entry points.

This works especially well along door thresholds, window sills, and baseboards. If you’ve noticed ants coming in from the yard or from cracks that lead outside, treat those spots first.

  • Citrus Peels – Ants are also repelled by citrus (plus it smells great!). Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, etc. contain D-limonene, which is effective at killing ants. I like to save my orange or lemon peels and dry them out. I’ll then pulse them in the food processor to make a powder and sprinkle this along entry points in the home. You can also sprinkle these around your garden or near plants outside.
  • Essential Oils – I’ve had good results deterring ants that were determined to come in under my screen door with an essential oil spray. Fill a small spray bottle with water and add about 20 drops of peppermint oil. Shake well and spray along doorways and window sills. It repels the ants and covers the scent of any food and pheromones.
  • Cotton Balls – You can also put several drops of peppermint, orange, or lemon oil on a cotton ball and place it in cabinets to deter ants from snooping around in search of food. This is one of my go-to methods when I want to deal with the problem quickly, especially if I notice them trailing across the kitchen floor.
  • Vinegar – Spraying vinegar along doorways and window sills is another option. This has the same effect as the peppermint oil spray. Mix vinegar 50/50 with water in a spray bottle. Add peppermint oil or a citrus oil to make it even more effective. You can also soak citrus peels in the vinegar for a few weeks, strain, then use this vinegar to spray with. Vinegar is especially helpful for erasing pheromone trails so other black ants or sugar ants can’t follow the same path.

What if Ants Are Already In Your Home?

The ants are already in. Now what?

First, find out where they’re coming in from and where they’re going so you can figure out the best way to tackle their removal. Something attracted them and that will need to be cleaned up. Then find their entry point so that you can use one of the tips from above.

If you’re trying to figure out how to get rid of ants in the house, this detective work is essential. Are they in the kitchen? The bathroom? Crawling along a baseboard in the bedroom? I once found a trail disappearing behind a bookshelf in the living room, and sure enough, there was a tiny gap in the trim that led to the outside.

Once you’ve found point A and point B, move on to clean up. You’ll obviously need to remove the ants from your counter, floor, cabinet or wherever they are. You can wipe them up with a cloth (or paper towel if you don’t want to try to remove them from your cloth).

It’s also really important to remove the pheromone trail. You can use soapy water, a 50/50 water and vinegar mix, or the essential oil spray. If you don’t clean up the trail, other ants will be able to find the same food source.

How to Get Rid of Ants Permanently (By Targeting the Colony)

I don’t know about you, but my first instinct is to kill any bugs I see in my house (or call for my adventurous daughter to do it for me). However, this may not always be the most effective way to rid your home of ants in the long term.

If you truly want to know how to get rid of ants permanently, you have to think bigger than the few crawling across your floor. The real goal is eliminating the colony. Although, there are some reports that if an ant smells another ant that’s been squished, they’ll alert the colony of the danger and stay away. 

The most effective way is to make an ant poison they will take back to their colony and feed to all of their friends. It requires a little bit of patience but pays off in the end.

Option 1: Borax Ant Trap

This doesn’t immediately remove the ants from your kitchen, but it works well in the long term. It may seem like it attracts more at first, which is actually a good thing here Borax helps eliminate the entire colony and not just the ants entering your home.

Mix equal parts Borax and corn syrup and spread it on an index card. The ants are attracted to the corn syrup and carry it back to their nest. All the ants that feed on the corn syrup mixture will be killed by the Borax. I’ll put this in a location away from curious pets and kids. (I cover the safety of using Borax here.)

If you’re searching for how to get rid of carpenter ants, this method can also be helpful, though carpenter ants sometimes require locating and directly treating their nest in wood structures as well.

Option 2: Baking Soda

If you’re uncomfortable with Borax, you can try baking soda. Mix equal parts baking soda and powdered sugar and place it in a lid near where you think the ants are coming in. The powdered sugar will attract them, but since they’re unable to differentiate between the sugar and the baking soda, they will carry both back to their nest.

When ants eat baking soda it reacts with the acidic substance in their bodies and is fatal to them. Again, not an immediate fix, but very beneficial in the long term.

Other Ant Killing Tips to Try

Castile soap will also compromise the waxy coating that protects the ants. Make a spray with 1 quart water and 1/4 cup liquid castile soap. Spray along doorways and window sills and anywhere else you see ants coming in. Repeat several times a day until the problem is resolved.

Diatomaceous Earth

Food grade diatomaceous earth is highly effective at getting rid of ants and other pests that crawl, rather than fly. This includes most black ants and other small household varieties, though not typically flying ant scouts until they land.

DE is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. Because it’s so fine, it’s perfectly safe for humans and animals and is actually beneficial to consume. Ants, however, become dehydrated when they come into contact with DE because it damages their waxy coating which will kill them. They won’t take it back to their colony but it will stop them from making any progress into your home.

Sprinkle DE along doorways and window sills, and any other points of entry, in trash cans, and along cabinets and baseboards. I have also sprinkled it liberally on my carpet during a particularly bad ant invasion. After a few days the ants were gone and I just vacuumed up the DE.

Use extreme care if you will be using this outside and avoid any areas that may have honey bees. The DE will stick to their legs and they will consume it when they’re grooming. DE is sharp to small insects and will kill them. We want to kill the ants and fleas, but NOT the honey bees!

A Quick Note on Flying Ants and Wings

If you notice ants with wings gathering near windows or light fixtures, you may be seeing reproductive ants. These can sometimes be confused with termites. If you’re unsure, it may be worth having a professional identify them, especially if you suspect structural damage.

In many cases, though, it means the colony is reproducing and taking out the whole colony will resolve the issue (see methods above).

Dealing With More Than Ants?

If you have other pests plaguing you there are other natural pest control options for your home and some organic ideas for your garden and yard.

Ants are persistent, but they’re not invincible. With a bit of patience, you can learn how to get rid of ants in the house and kitchen, and even how to get rid of ants permanently without compromising your family’s health. If you’ve ever dealt with ants popping up in the house, these tried and true methods can really make a difference. 

How do you deal with ants? Did I miss any effective tips that have worked for you? Leave a comment and let us know!

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