Because of its quality and capabilities, we named this the best for pros on our list of best coffee grinders.

What is the Fellow Opus Conical Burr Grinder?

The Fellow coffee grinder is an electric burr grinder, with stainless steel, conical burrs. Burr grinders are recognized for delivering precise, consistent grinds, and the Fellow (along with the Baratza) is an example of burr grinders at their best.

It measures 10 inches tall, making it one of the more compact options on the market. But don’t let that fool you: It can handle a lot, with a high-torque motor, six-blade conical burrs and a hopper capacity of 110 grams. And it does seem like it’s trying to fool you; its appearance is equally deceptive. It’s very stripped-back and minimalist in design, nearly looking like a piece of decor rather than the powerhouse behind your daily drip. It’s available in both matte white and matte black.

The minimalism also makes it very intuitive: There’s only one knob for grind adjustment size, but it does have 41 precision settings. The underside of the hopper lid has instructions for what settings work best for what type of coffee brewing method, from a fine ground for espresso to a coarse grind for cold brew. We were very impressed by thisit gets a lot done with just a little. (As does the Hamilton beach coffee grinder, one of our favorite manual coffee grinders on the other side of the price spectrum.)

The Fellow coffee grinder also comes with a volumetric dosing lid which helps you measure beans for up to 12 cups. This makes it very easy to measure out the beans you need.

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Fellow Opus Conical Burr Coffee Grinder

On your way to becoming a professional barista? This is the grinder we recommend for your home coffee bar.

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How We Tested the Fellow Coffee Grinder

The Fellow coffee grinder went through the same test as all the other grinders we were evaluating. We started by getting a sense of how well and consistently it ground. It comes with a surprisingly charming manual that can help you figure out your grind settings if you aren’t sure.

For our tests, we used 20 grams of beans. It took 26 seconds to get that amount to a fine grind and 16 seconds for a coarse grind. The consistency was impressive. It’s not an inexpensive machine, but it immediately showcased why it had a higher price point. We were also struck by how quiet it wasits grinding was quieter than most.

When we made a pour-over with the grounds, it tasted like a good, classic cup. Exactly what you would hope for. Because of its performance, the Fellow coffee grinder moved onto our final test: making a shot of espresso. We ran into an issue here, and it’s possible it’s because the Fellow is too powerful for our espresso machine. The Fellow instructions recommended grinding the beans to a level between 1 and 2 for espresso, but the grounds were so fine that the shot couldn’t be pulled. When we adjusted the dial to being less fine, it was a success (and very delicious.) That being said, it’s definitely best paired with other high-quality coffee devices. (If you are an espresso drinker, check out our other best coffee grinders for espresso and our favorite espresso beans.)

Cleaning was very similar to other units. You can remove the hopper, grinder container and burr. The grind container and lid and the hopper lid can be hand-washed, while the outside can be wiped down.

The only downside with this grinder was that the grounds got everywhere and were always falling out. Even when we tapped the grinder multiple times after each test, more would continue to fall out, especially after grinding on the finer settings.

Pros

• Intuitive
• Sleek design
• Consistent grind
• Includes a dosing cup

Cons

• A lot of retention (grounds get stuck in the chamber)
• Can be a bit messy

FAQ

How do you clean a Fellow grinder?

Cleaning a Fellow grinder is much like cleaning any other coffee grinder. The grinder container and lid and the hopper lid can be hand-washed, while the burr can’t.

Is the Fellow Opus good for espresso?

Yes, the Fellow Opus can grind beans very finely, which is ideal for an espresso machine. We found it worked so well that our espresso machine couldn’t handle its finest grind, but when we found the right grind, the espresso shot was wonderful.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our expert Product Testing team had a long list of grinders to test out. We evaluated them all based on the same criteria. First, we looked at how consistently they ground, also noting the noise of the grinder, how much space it took up on a countertop and how easy it was to clean. We brewed a cup of coffee with the grounds and the Hario pour-over. Our top performers moved onto the final round: grinding beans for an espresso shot.

I’ve written numerous product reviews and gift guides, many of which have focused on coffee and coffee equipment. This is in no small part to my own love of coffee (and making it at home) and identifying the products that live up to their promise and offer a superlative home-brewing experience.

Where To Buy the Fellow Coffee Grinder

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Fellow Opus Conical Burr Coffee Grinder

This professional-worthy machine makes the most consistent grinds for any coffee drink.

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The Fellow Opus Conical Burr Grinder costs $195. It includes a two-year standard warranty or a three-year warranty if you register your grinder. It’s available for the same price at Crate & Barrel, Sur La Table and Williams Sonoma.

The post Fellow Coffee Grinder Review: A Professional-Grade Pick appeared first on Taste of Home.

Enter the Bodum coffee grinder, which is cute, powerful and very easy to usewith plenty of features to help beginner coffee makers find their perfect grind. Depending on how you brew your coffee, having a grinder with multiple setting selections helps ensure your coffee will taste as smooth and fragrant as you expect.

We named the Bodum coffee grinder the best user-friendly burr grinder on our list of best coffee grinders. (If you’re new to home-brewing, learn more about how to grind coffee beans.)

What is the Bodum Bistro Burr coffee grinder?

The Bodum coffee grinder is an electric burr grinder. Burr grinders, like the Baratza burr grinder, grind coffee beans between two revolving surfaces (the Bodum machine uses stainless steel conical burrs). They’re often considered superior to blade grinders, which use high-speed blades to make coffee grounds and tend to make a more consistent, aromatic cup of coffee.

At 11 inches tall, the grinder’s overall appearance is a bit cutesier than competitors, especially with the raised bumps and the big, bubbly Bodum logo. We thought this didn’t make it look very high-end, but some people might prefer it. You can select from red, black and white.

The hopper has a 7.75-ounce capacity for your favorite coffee brands, and it has 12 settings, from espresso (very fine) to French press (very coarse). It’s pretty simple to use: There’s a hopper adjustment, a timer dial and an on/off button. It’s very lightweight and easy to store, which makes it great if you don’t have a lot of counter space or just like to keep your counters free. You can get a replacement glass container for storing grounds for $25.

If you’re looking for something a little simpler or affordable, the best manual coffee grinders we tested (including our team favorite, the Hamilton Beach coffee grinder) generally have lower price points while still getting the job done.

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Bodum Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder

Easy to use and efficient, this grinder is ideal for beginner baristas

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How We Tested the Bodum Coffee Grinder

First things first, we tested how well it ground coffee to a different coarseness. It took 20 seconds to ground 20 grams of coffee to a fine coarseness, but only 8 seconds to grind it to a coarse ground. We found the grinds to be pretty consistent, although the grinding itself was a little loud.

(Prefer espresso? We evaluated the best coffee grinders for espresso to go with the best espresso beans we’ve tried.)

We made a cup of coffee via the pour-over method, and the end result was solid and pretty similar to the others we tried. It was a little more bitter, but not by much. If you prefer something sweeter, try out the best flavored coffee we’ve sampled.

The overall experience was equally solid: It wasn’t very messy, and the grounds stayed in the container well. There was some static on the sides of the container where the grounds got stuck, but fairly minimal compared to its competition.

The Bodum coffee grinder was very intuitive and easy to use. There’s a diagram on top telling you how long to set the timer, depending on how many cups you’re making or ounces you’re grinding. Since figuring that out can take some trial and error, we like how frictionless this diagram makes the process.

Cleaning was just as simple. The hopper and the burr come off easily. You can use a soft-bristle brush to clean the conical burr, and the housing, lid, coffee-bean container and ground cover can be cleaned with a damp cloth. You can pop the coffee ground container and its lid in the dishwasher.

Pros

• Nice tips on the hopper cover to help you grind
• Not very messy
• Easy to use

Cons

• No cord management
• Feels a little cheap

FAQ

How do you clean a Bodum coffee grinder?

To clean a Bodum coffee grinder, you can wipe the housing, lid, coffee bean container and grinding cover with a damp cloth. The coffee ground container and its lid can go in the dishwasher. Clean the conical burr with a soft-bristle brush.

How do you use a Bodum Bistro coffee grinder?

To use the Bodum Bistro coffee grinder, pour your coffee beans of choice (these are the best organic coffees we’ve tried) into the machine. Select your grind setting based on how you’re brewing, and then press the button.

Why You Should Trust Us

To find the best coffee grinders, our Product Testing team ground many, many coffee beans in many different coffee grinders. We evaluated them all on the same criteria. First, we analyzed cord length, noise levels and how much space the machine would take up in someone’s kitchen. We tested how uniform the grinds were on the finest, coarsest and medium settings and how long it took the machines to grind the beans on each setting.

With the grounds, we made a cup of coffee to see how strong and smooth the coffee was. Our top performers moved on to grind beans for an espresso shot.

I’ve written numerous product reviews and gift guides, and many of them concern coffee in one way or another, mostly because I’m a passionate coffee drinker myself. I’ve been making coffee at home for years and have experienced firsthand the difference between average coffee-making tools and excellent coffee-making tools. Spoiler: the difference is a cup of coffee good enough that you look forward to your alarm going off.

Where To Buy the Bodum Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder

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Bodum Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder

Easy to use and efficient, this grinder is ideal for beginner baristas

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The Bodum coffee grinder costs around $80. Pick it up on Amazon or Wayfair and enjoy the luxury of freshly ground coffee without breaking the bank.

The post Bodum Coffee Grinder Review: Intuitive and Easy to Use appeared first on Taste of Home.

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The Cuisinart Hurricane Pro is hands down the best blender for smoothies out of all 14 blenders we tested. Our testing team was blown away with the gorgeous, yogurt-like consistency it produces in just 90 secondsno tamping required. It crushes competition with an ultra powerful 2,000-watt motor that makes the most silky smooth mixtures we’ve seen. Hello, restaurant-quality, healthy smoothies!

Sure, it excels at smoothies, but it also works great across the board, even for hot soups. Not to mention the abundance of settings, including buttons for smoothies, ice crushing, soups and pulsing, along with adjustable speed arrows for additional control. It can even whip up nut better that’s so smooth, it rivals store butters.

While we love most aspects of this blender, there are a few things we’d love to see improved. Firstly, the measuring lines are dark and easy to read, but they’re not engraved. We could see them eventually wearing off if you put it in the dishwasher or own it for years. Additionally, crushing ice is a tricky task. Most of the ice lodges on the bottom with the preset mode, though the pulse mode worked much better.

That said, the build quality impressed the team. It feels sturdy and heavy-duty, and the motor seems like it’ll last for a while. The handle has a rubber grip, which is great for traction and doesn’t allow your hand to slip at all.

Bonus: There’s a self-clean mode that makes cleanup so simple. We used the clean cycle for 30 seconds (the length of time can be adjusted), and it actually did pretty well, requiring just a little more scrubbing afterwards. Or, pop the jar, blades and lid into the dishwasher. Simple!

The post The Best Blenders for Smoothies, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• CHEESES:
• Boursin garlic and fine herbs cheese
• Smoked Gouda cheese
• Mimolette cheese
• Havarti cheese
• Blue cheese
• Southern Pimiento Cheese Spread
• MEATS:
• Thinly sliced prosciutto
• Thinly sliced soppressata
• Thinly sliced calabrese
• Mortadella
• BREAD AND CRACKERS:
• Thyme Sea Salt Crackers
• Baguette slices or crostini
• Rye crackers
• FRUITS AND VEGETABLES:
• Sweety drop peppers
• Seedless red, green and purple grapes
• Dried apricots
• PICKLES AND NUTS:
• Marinated Olives
• Rosemary Walnuts
• Cornichons or gherkins
• Marcona almonds
• CONDIMENTS:
• Stone-ground mustard
• Honey
• Fig spread

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We already love Ninja as a brand, so it was exciting to see the Ninja Foodi Power Mixer System outperform all the other best immersion blenders we tested. Not only is this stick blender impressive, it also costs less than $100. As a bonus, it’s incredibly versatile thanks to a number of included attachments. Inside the box are not only the blending wand and motor, but also a three-cup blending vessel, hand-mixer attachment, beaters and a whisk.

“An accessory that we particularly enjoyed converts the immersion blender into a hand mixerbeaters included,” says former product tester Dylan Fischer of this feature-rich option. The Ninja has five speeds for mixing along with two blending speeds. It creates creamy vinaigrette, beautifully homogenous bisque and airy whipped cream that doubles in volume, according to our tests. It tackles such a number of kitchen tasks that it almost feels unfair to call the Ninja a simple immersion blender.

Despite its slightly exaggerated weightjust a hair over 2 poundsthe testers noted that there was just a touch of arm fatigue, even after performing the tests back-to-back. Additionally, while it suctioned to the bottom of the vessel occasionally (and thus caused a few small splatters), that’s nothing compared to some of the others we tested.

“This killed it on the blending test. Most the other models left the soup with a gritty texture, but the Ninja’s end result was completely smooth and much more appetizing,” notes former Product Testing Manager Annamarie Higley. Cleaning an immersion blender can be tricky, but the Ninja thought of that, too. All attachments, with exception of power base, hand-mixer attachment, and chopper processing lid are dishwasher safe.

The post 6 Best Immersion Blenders, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Taste of Home.

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Sure, a percolator might be the 1950s way to make a pot of coffee, but you can really customize your brew with a modern drip coffee maker. This retro kitchen appliancelooks like it came right out of the atomic age, but it has all the bells and whistles you’re looking for, including a timer, strength settings, and small pot brewing options (for when you want just one cup).

The post 11 Accessories for Your Vintage ’50s Kitchen appeared first on Taste of Home.

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This three-in-one pan organizer is customizable to your space, offering three different setup options and eight adjustable shelves. Since the wire shelves are adjustable, everything from large simmer pots to 8-inch frying pans fits with ease. With over 9,000 five-star ratings, there’s no doubt the Mudeela pots and pans organizer is a game-changing Amazon find. No more fumbling around on your hands and knees to find your favorite pan!

The post The 8 Best Pots and Pans Organizers of 2024 appeared first on Taste of Home.

As a spirits enthusiast with years of experience crafting cocktails and reviewing subscriptions like Flaviar, I put PourMore to the test. From the quality of the bourbon to the value it offers, this subscription delivers an exceptional whiskey experience while helping you discover something new for your bar.

Editor’s note: While this article focuses on PourMore’s Bourbon of the Month Club, the company also offers subscriptions for whiskey, scotch, tequila, mezcal, rum and a bartender subscription featuring a mix of spirits.

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PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club

Receive a 750ml bottle of bourbon monthly. Choose the Intro tier for beginners or Explorer for enthusiasts, and enjoy small-batch craftsmanship, tasting notes and cocktail recipes.

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What is the PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club?

PourMore’s Bourbon of the Month Club delivers a 750ml bottle of bourbon straight to your doorstep each month. Along with the bottle, youll receive tasting notes, the story behind the spirit and an innovative bourbon cocktail recipe.

This Bourbon of the Month Club is all about expanding your palate. Each month, you’ll discover a new bourbon, explore its unique flavors and aromas and learn how to savor it best. The beauty lies in the varietyits a chance to uncover distillers and styles you might never have tried.

PourMores mission? To broaden your bourbon horizons and bring the magic of the distillery to your home bar.

PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club Features

PourMore collaborates with small-batch bourbon distillers and distributors to bring unique bottles to your collectionranging from everyday sippers to rare, limited releases.

Membership Levels

The PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club comes in two tiers:

• Intro Tier: Perfect for novices, offering accessible yet quality selections.
• Explorer Tier: For enthusiasts seeking exclusive and rare bourbon options.

For a limited time, subscriptions are discounted:

• Intro Tier: $50/month (17% off)
• Explorer Tier: $80/month (11% off)

To customize your experience, select your bottle by the 4th of each month.

After receiving your bottle, provide feedback to help PourMore refine future selections based on your preferences.

Frequency

After you pick your booze, choose your delivery frequency: monthly or bimonthly. The subscription renews automatically monthly, but with PourMores month-to-month flexibility, you can pause or cancel anytime.

Shipping

Shipping costs vary by location but are typically $18-$20 per shipment. Orders ship in batches between the 5th and 15th of each month, arriving between the 10th and 25th. If you place your order after the 5th, it ships at the start of the next month.

Note: PourMore doesnt ship internationally or to the following U.S. states due to liquor regulations: Utah, Mississippi, Alabama, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Hawaii, Michigan and South Dakota.

PourMore acts as a trusted middleman, partnering with third-party retailers, vendors and couriers to fulfill orders. While they dont ship from their own inventory, they ensure smooth coordination with their partners.

Gifting

This subscription makes a thoughtful gift for bourbon loversor yourself. Gift packages are available at several price points:

• Year of Bourbon: $600
• Six Months: $300
• Three Months: $150

These prices apply to the Intro Tier, with premium Explorer Tier gifting options also available.

Whether you’re diving into the world of bourbon or gifting a curated experience, PourMore makes the journey as smooth as the spirits it delivers.

How We Tested It

Our months bourbon pick was Shortbarrel Bourbon Straight Rye Whiskey from Indiana, a single-barrel gem with a mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. The non-chill filtered, straight rye whiskey is aged six years and bottled at a bold 115.3 proof. It snagged a Double Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Before sipping, I opened my mouth slightly and inhaled gently, paying attention to the flavors that emerged. The Shortbarrel burst with notes of baking spice, black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon and a touch of mint candy, balanced by rich caramel, vanilla and spearmint. Aromas of rye grain filled the room, then faded into lighter, more tropical, fruity tones. The finish was surprisingly sweet yet boldly spiced as notes of clove, rye, oak and tobacco lingered.

The whiskey cocktail recipe featured an Apple Cider Smash: Combine one ounce of Shortbarrel Rye Whiskey, half an ounce of fresh lemon juice and four ounces of apple cider in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled, then pour over ice in a glass.

Pros

• Collaborates with small-batch distilleries to deliver rare and high-quality bourbons
• Offers Intro for beginners and Explorer for seasoned enthusiasts, tailoring to different experience levels
• Each shipment includes detailed tasting notes, backstory and a creative cocktail recipe for added enjoyment
• Options for monthly or bimonthly deliveries with the ability to pause or cancel anytime
• Makes an excellent gift with 3-, 6- or 12-month packages available
• Provides a full-sized 750ml bottle per shipment, offering better quantity compared to sample-based subscriptions

Cons

• Additional costs ($18$20 for shipping) can increase overall price
• Not available in certain states due to liquor regulations
• Returns only accepted for damaged bottles, with an $80 restocking fee for undeliverable shipments

Why You Should Trust Us

As Senior Shopping Editor forReaders Digest,Taste of HomeandFamily Handyman, I bring over a decade of experience reviewing products across food, travel and lifestyle categories. Having written forSouthern Living,ForbesandBetter Homes & Gardens, Ive built a reputation for delivering well-researched, hands-on product reviews. For this review of PourMore’s bourbon of the month club, I applied my expertise in spiritshoned through cocktail crafting and culinary explorationto offer an informed, genuine perspective on the bourbon of the month club’s selection, quality and overall value. Ive tested the Flaviar whiskey subscription, 2023 and 2024 Flaviar Advent calendars and over 50 bourbons.

In addition to my commerce editorial work, Im a food and travel writer for Garden & Gun, The Local PalateandCovey Rise, where Ive toured distilleries and interviewed top bartenders and spirit makers. This experience and my passion for crafting cocktails and hosting equip me to assess the PourMore bourbon of the month club’s offerings with a discerning eye for variety and craftsmanship.

FAQ

How does a bourbon club work?

Typically, a bourbon of the month club delivers a full-sized bottle of bourbon to your door regularly, once a month like PourMore or quarterly. Or, it could be three sample vials of bourbon once a quarter, like the Flaviar bourbon subscription.

What is the number one bourbon drink?

The most popular bourbon drink is an old-fashioned cocktail. Developed in the early 19th century, it consists of spirits, bitters, water and sugar.

Product Comparison

When comparing the PourMore bourbon of the month club to a Flaviar whiskey subscription, each caters to distinct audiences. Flaviar excels in variety, offering a global selection of whiskeys, spirits and an expansive online community with resources like tasting notes, recipes and rare bottles. Its perfect for whiskey connoisseurs seeking a quarterly subscription with added perks like discounts, events and a vibrant spirits community.

Conversely, PourMore focuses on bourbon enthusiasts, delivering one full-sized bottle monthly. It emphasizes small-batch distillers and personalized selections. While PourMore offers a more frequent delivery schedule and tailored experience, Flaviar provides broader spirit exploration and additional educational tools.

Value is a key factor to consider, with Flaviar costing $100 per shipment and PourMore costing around $70-$90 per shipment after shipping fees ($70 at Intro level and $90 at Explorer level). Overall, PourMore delivers more bang for your buck with a higher quantity of whiskey. A Flaviar shipment includes three 50ml samples of different whiskeys, and PourMore delivers a single 750ml bottle of bourbon.

Both subscriptions shine in their respective niches, with Flaviar leading in diversity and PourMore excelling in bourbon exclusivity.

Final Verdict

PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club is a standout subscription for bourbon lovers, delivering expertly curated, small-batch selections with tasting notes, backstories and cocktail recipes. With two tiersIntro for beginners and Explorer for seasoned sippersit offers a personalized experience, featuring a full-sized 750ml bottle each month. While shipping fees and state restrictions may pose minor drawbacks, the subscriptions focus on quality and variety sets it apart, offering excellent value compared to sample-based services like Flaviar. Whether for yourself or as a gift, PourMore is a rewarding way to explore and enjoy the world of bourbon.

Note: PourMore only accepts returns if your bottle of bourbon arrives damaged. If that happens, email contact@pourmore.com for assistance. Double-check your address before placing an order. Refused or undeliverable deliveries incur an $80 restocking fee to cover partner and return shipping costs.

Where To Buy the PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club

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PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club

Receive a 750ml bottle of bourbon monthly. Choose the Intro tier for beginners or Explorer for enthusiasts, and enjoy small-batch craftsmanship, tasting notes and cocktail recipes.

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The PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club subscription starts at $50/month for the Intro Tier and $80/month for the Explorer Tier, with discounts available for longer commitments or gifting packages. Shipping costs range from $18$20 per month, depending on your location. You can only purchase the subscription directly from PourMores website.

The post PourMore Bourbon of the Month Club Review: Must-Try Spirits Straight to Your Door appeared first on Taste of Home.

While the differences between some meal services like Home Chef and HelloFresh are rather minimal, Factor vs. HelloFresh is a much broader comparison. Sure, both services offer fresh, filling meals in under an hour. However, one focuses on ready-made meals, whereas the other is something more akin to a meal prep kit that requires cooking, cutting and stirring. We tried both services to get the full experienceand we realized that these are two different animals entirely.

Whats the difference between Factor vs. HelloFresh?

While both meal delivery services put dinner on the table, they are far from the same. Whereas HelloFresh has a number of cooking kits available that require prep with step-by-step instructions, Factor75 falls more into the “heat-and-eat” category. While the meals aren’t frozen, they arrive prepped, cooked and chilled ahead of time. This means that making dinner is as simple as popping them in the oven or microwave.

Cost and Plan

HelloFresh focuses on filling their customer’s carts with anywhere from two to six meals per week, each with two, four or six servings. You can also add additional meals for an extra charge. Because these meals offer multiple servings, this is a good meal service for families. The price of each week’s box depends on many different factors, including the number of meals, servings, customizations and add-ons chosen.

Factor75 offers as few as four meals per week or as many as 36, which is great if you want to substitute both lunches and dinners. All meals are single-serving and arrive in their own oven- and microwave-safe tray, so there’s no need to dirty any dishes. Factor’s meal kits also cost a bit less per meal than HelloFresh, though keep in mind that servings are smaller.

Recipe Variety and Dietary Options

HelloFresh offers around 60 meals each week in its rotating menu, including a few gluten-free meal kits. It also offers the following labels for meals: Calorie Smart, Carb Smart, Protein Smart, Easy Prep, Veggie, Family Friendly, Easy Clean-up, Quick and New. While its dietary menu isn’t expansive, it has a comparable number of options to a service like Gobble. With HelloFresh, customers can also alter most recipes by swapping out or adding proteins and doubling up servings, if desired.

Factor doesn’t offer recipe customizations like HelloFresh since the meals are already prepped. However, its keto meal kits are some of our favorites. Factor sorts its meals into the following categories: Calorie Smart, Protein Plus, Keto, Carb Conscious and Vegan & Veggie. While it doesn’thave as many meat-free options as a fully plant-based service like Purple Carrot, there are still plenty of picks to satisfy the vegan palate.

Unique Add-Ons and Product Lines

HelloFresh offers lots of add-ons and upgrades. These include lunch items (e.g., Caesar salad, Cajun wings, soups, mac & cheese, etc.), and proteins including meat boxes. Subscribers also get access to the HelloFresh Market, which is like an online grocery store. Inside, shoppers can add apps or sides, desserts, breakfasts and brunch, lunches, snacks or drinks, pizza or pasta, proteins and even healthy dog food. They also offer Beyond the Box, which provides food to community members in need.

In a similar vein, Factor75 has its own grocery page. Add-ons include breakfast bundles (e.g., pancakes, scrambles, egg bites), cold-pressed juices, protein shakes, desserts (e.g., cheesecake, macaroons), keto cookies, plain proteins, snacks (e.g., wellness shots, nuts, PB bites), frozen foods (e.g., empanadas, smoothies), protein powder, basic sides and no-heat lunches. These are offered to you after building a box of meals.

Delivery and Packaging

HelloFresh meals come in a sturdy, branded, insulated cardboard box. Each meal is packed in its own bag, except the meat, which arrives separated on the bottom and is laid on top of an ice pack. There’s also a shiny, metallic bubble wrap insulation sleeve on all sides. HelloFresh uses Veho for delivery. Customers can track each week’s box via a confirmation text or the HelloFresh or Veho app. Deliveries take place seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Factor also uses Veho for delivery. However, you cannot track the box through the Factor app, so you need to download the Veho app or use the text confirmations. Factor meals arrive in a pretty compact branded box with a thick layer of fluffy, paper-sided insulation and two large ice packs. Deliveries take place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Factor sends an estimated delivery time, which depends on the location.

All About HelloFresh

HelloFresh is one of the most well-known meal delivery services, and for good reason. The meals are creative, come in a variety of dietary options and offer step-by-step instructions that make them easy to prepare and cook. Whether you’re a working professional or looking for a waste-free way to cook for the whole family, HelloFresh is an excellent option.

Curious how HelloFresh compares to other meal prep services? Read our EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh and Blue Apron vs. HelloFresh comparisons.

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All About Factor75

Factor75 meals are perfect for busy students or singles. These healthful meals are nutrient-rich without taking any more than a few minutes from tray to table. The directions for each meal are very clear: put the oven rack in the middle rung, preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the sleeve and film, place on a baking sheet and bake for seven minutes, adding additional minutes as needed. These directions are pretty inflexible from meal to meal, meaning that prep is quick and routine.

Similar services include CookUnity and Tovala, which both require minimal prep prior to cooking.

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Factor 75

Factor shops, preps, cooks and delivers fresh meals to your doorjust heat and eat!

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The Bottom Line

Both services impressed us with their meal variety, ease of ordering and transparency with pricing. No matter which you choose, you’ll enjoy fresh, filling meals in less time than traditional cooking takes. That said, these are definitely geared towards different types of consumers. HelloFresh is an excellent meal kit for families that offers flexible servings, customization and lots of add-ons. In contrast, Factor75 is geared towards singles who want to eat healthy meals without spending time on prep. If you’re still on the fence, consider trying Marley Spoon. After testing more than 10 options, it was our favorite overall meal kit.

The post Factor vs. HelloFresh: How Do the Heat-and-Eat Meals Compare to Meal Kits? appeared first on Taste of Home.

When we heard about Factor75, we knew we had to try it. Fresh, non-frozen meals that put chef-created dinners on the table in less than 10 minutes? Count us in! After a week of testing for this Factor75 review, here’s what we thought of these near-instant dishes. Hint: These nutrient-rich meals beat the drive-through any day.

What is Factor75?

Factor75 isn’t your average meal delivery service like Home Chef or HelloFresh. Instead of shipping ingredients and a recipe card, each delivery consists of fresh meals made and conceptualized by real chefs. And, unlike a service like Tovala, Factor75’s heat-and-eat meals require no prep. Each meal arrives chilled (never frozen) and ready for your refrigerator. Just reheat the meal and enjoythat’s it!

Factor75 focuses on healthful dishes that suit a variety of dietary lifestyles, including keto and plant-based. This sets them apart from similar services and makes them ideal for those who want a healthy lifestyle but don’t have the time to meal prep.

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Factor75

Factor shops, preps, cooks and delivers fresh meals to your doorjust heat and eat!

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Our Factor75 Review

Product Testing ManagerAnnamarie Higley enjoyed a week of meals for the purposes of this Factor75 review. Overall, she was impressed not just by the speed of each meal but also by the delicious flavors and quality ingredients. She tried five filling recipes: Loaded Bacon and Spinach Shredded Chicken, Indian-Style Butter Chicken, Stroganoff-Style Beef Burger, Nonna’s Sunday Beef Bolognese and a Vegetarian Tamale Bowl.

While we experienced a few issues right off the bat, they were nothing a quick call to customer service couldn’t solve. Annamarie was not able to adjust her initial delivery date as soon as she signed up, forcing her to receive the box a few weeks later than expected. It seemed like that first order was locked in, even if she fully deactivated her account.

However, when she called customer service, the rep was super easy to reach and accommodating. She was able to quickly shift the delivery back two weeks, and the updates were reflected instantaneously in the account.

Menu

While the menu boasts around 35 rotating meals each week, Annamarie notes that there is definitely a “formula” for the meals. This means they’re not as exciting as, say, CookUnity’s offerings. The meals remind her of an average “healthy” meal, containing a cut of meat, vegetables and grains. While unsurprising when considering Factor75’s focus on healthful food, the lack of menu creativity is worth noting.

However, when it comes to add-ons, prepare for tons of choices. These include breakfast bundles (e.g., pancakes, scrambles, egg bites), cold-pressed juices, protein shakes, desserts (e.g., cheesecake, macaroons), keto cookies, plain proteins, snacks (e.g., wellness shots, nuts, PB bites), frozen foods (e.g., empanadas, smoothies), protein powder, basic sides and no-heat lunches. These are offered to you after you’ve made all your main meal selections.

Filters and Dietary Options

Factor75 offers two rows of filters. Up top, you can sort by All Meals, Top Rated, New, Stay Balanced, Fuel Your Fitness, Fiber Support and Global Flavors. Beneath it, filter by Calorie Smart, Protein Plus, Keto, Carb Conscious and Vegan & Veggie. There are lots of specialty diets represented, making this a good plant-based or keto meal delivery kit option. Recipes are then individually labeled with buttons that coincide with most of the aforementioned filters. Spicy recipes and surcharged recipes are flagged, with each recipe’s calories and carbs listed.

Website and App

Our experience with the website wasn’t great. First, it’s “gamified,” which is kind of gimmickysomething we didn’t expect from a HelloFresh brand. It feels a little duplicitous, intentionally overwhelming and confusing. Annamarie notes that meals were automatically added to her cart. She’d choose one, and the cart would show that there were five meals in there, the other four of which she never clicked. She recommends double-checking the cart prior to checkout.

That said, the app is much more user-friendly. Some of the displays are a bit busy, but it doesn’t feel quite as confusing or distracting as the website. There’s pretty standard functionality, like editing and adding to orders in the “Deliveries” tab or rating and reviewing recipes in the “Cookbook” tab. There’s also a bit of a social aspect, allowing subscribers to invite people in the “Feed Friends” tab or unlock and track rewards in the “Achievements” tab. Additionally, the “Settings” tab is for changing profile information.

Delivery

Meals arrive in a pretty compact, branded box. It has a thick layer of fluffy, paper-sided insulation and two large ice packs that sandwich the stack of meals. The meals come in cardboard sleeves and plastic trays with plastic sleevesnot great for those trying to limit their plastic waste.

One thing to note is that you can’t track deliveries through the Factor75 website. Subscribers instead use the automated texts and website from the courier, Veho. Additionally, while Annamarie indicated on her account that she wanted her box left at my back door, they did not do this.

Loaded Bacon & Spinach Shredded Chicken

Annamarie particularly enjoyed her Loaded Bacon & Spinach Shredded Chicken, which can be prepped in the microwave or the oven, depending on preference. It takes only two minutes to cook in the microwave, or around 11 minutes for oven prep.

“The bacon on top was thick and high quality, and it got pretty crispy (thats why I opted for oven prep!),” she says. “It also served as a nice textural contrast. The ranch was super yummynot sure if its made in-house, but its certainly better than store-bought ranchand it added another layer of dilly flavor. Ill gladly eat this whole pile o food.”

Vegetarian Tamale Bowl

Additionally, Annamarie even enjoyed the recipes reheated in the microwave. “I opted to microwave this one,” she says of her Vegetarian Tamale Bowl. “My only complaint is that they tell you not to take the plastic film off until the very end of cooking, yet it’s hard to tell if the food is warmed through fully without taking it off. So, say, if I were to temp it, then put the food back in the microwave, the film would be off for that last portion of microwaving.”

“This has quite a bit of spice to it, to the point that some users might not be able to eat this,” she notes. “The corn ‘mash’that’s what I would call itdoes a nice job of offsetting the heat, though, because it has that subtle sweetness to it. The beans make this feel pretty filling despite the lack of meat, though I’m not the biggest fan of kidney beans. Overall, this has absolutely no shortage of flavor and could definitely pass as homemade.”

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Factor75

Factor shops, preps, cooks and delivers fresh meals to your doorjust heat and eat!

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FAQ

How much is Factor75?

Factor75 meal kit deliveries cost as little as $80 or as much as $450, depending on the number of meals.

How do you cancel Factor75?

Click on “Settings” in the drop-down under the account name. Then, scroll to the bottom of the “Plan Settings” tab, where there’s a button that says “Deactivate My Plan.” There’s a pop-up that allows you to change your box size instead, where you get the option to click “No Thanks.” Finally, that takes you to the cancelation questionnaire. Click “Deactivate Now.” From there, you can opt to provide further feedback. Canceling sends a confirmation email.

To skip a week of meals, go to the menu for the corresponding week. The skip button is right at the top, positioned pretty prominently next to the “Edit Meals” button.

Can you freeze Factor75 meals?

Factor 75 meals can be frozen, but this affects the cooking time. Some ingredients, especially creamy sauces, may not freeze well.

The post Factor75 Review: We Tried the Healthy Two-Minute Meal Service appeared first on Taste of Home.

Unlike many other meal kits for families that offer a range of dietary types, Purple Carrot is a completely plant-based meal service. It focuses on fresh, filling vegan meals that cook up quickly for parents and professionals. Of course, we had to see how it compared to our other favorite options (I’m looking at you, Gobble and HungryRoot).

Alongside testing for this Purple Carrot review, we also tried over a dozen other meal delivery services to truly compare each option’s strengths and setbacks. These range from all-encompassing meal delivery services like Marley Spoon to heat-and-eat meals a la CookUnity. Here’s what we thought after enjoying a week of Purple Carrot meals.

What is Purple Carrot?

Before writing this Purple Carrot review, I thought the best a vegan could hope for in the realm of plant-based meal services was something like Green Chef. While this organic and health-focused service offers many excellent plant-based options, it still focuses mostly on omnivore or flexitarian diets. However, this changed when I heard about Purple Carrot.

Purple Carrot is 100% plant-based, meaning that the entire menu (around 16 options per week) is vegan-friendly. Within these selections, the brand also offers a range of options that cater to other diets, like gluten-free. Apart from full-on meal kits containing ingredients and recipe cards, there are also ready-made meals that simply require a quick reheat in the microwave or oven. We love how accessible this makes plant-based eating, even for those tight on time.

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Best Overall

Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot offers plant-based meal kits containing fresh ingredients, surprising flavors and filling portions.

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Our Purple Carrot Review

Purple Carrot’s menu consists of around 16 options per week. These are divided into self-made meal kits that contain two to four servings and single-serve, pre-made meals. Each week, customers can choose either three or four self-made meals or 6, 8 or 10 pre-made meals. Extra meals are also available for an additional cost. The meals themselves are creative and appealing, with recipe names like One-Pot Buffalo Mac & Cheese and Chick’n and Dumplings with Oyster Mushrooms & Green Beans.

Purple Carrot meals are divided into the following categories on the website: High-protein, less prep, soy-free, nut-free, chef’s choice, gluten-free, healthy carbs, <600 calories, low sodium, breakfast, lunch, dinner, pantry, less prep, ready to eat, meal kits and grocery. Now, let's dive into this Purple Carrot reviewthere's a lot to go over!

Delivery

Deliveries take place on Saturdays. Customers can skip a week if they’re out of town or plan on making their own meals for a week. For the purposes of this Purple Carrot review, we attempted to both skip a week and cancel our subscription. Both were easy to accomplish after navigating to our account settings.

Menu

Editorial Coordinator Sydney Manning volunteered her time and stomach to sample the menu for a week. After some consideration, she settled on a menu of Crunchy Cabbage Salads, Cacio e Pepe, Elote Tacos, Black Bean Crunchadillas and Creamy Peanut Noodles.

While Purple Carrot offers several tabs that let you sort through popular modifiers (e.g., gluten-free or nut-free), it’s worth noting that not all diets are supported on the platform. For instance, if you’re on a keto diet, we recommend checking out our list of keto meal kits insteadthere just simply aren’t enough options on Purple Carrot.

Recipes and Prep

For this Purple Carrot review, we chose a diverse range of meals, including items from the heat-and-eat menu. While Purple Carrot offers around 16 meals per week, many of those are “fan favorites,” so expect to see a few repeats each week. Aside from meal kits, Purple Carrot also has a grocery section with plant-based items such as desserts, pantry meals, meat substitutes, tofu, cereal, drinks, dips, protein bars, soups, fries, coffee beans and other various snacks and sides.

Prep depends on the type of meal. The heat-and-eat meals are simplejust pop them in the oven or microwave to reheat. For the meal prep kits, the time each recipe takes depends on its components. Sydney notes that she was supposed to get a physical recipe booklet, but she never received it (and customer service wouldn’t resend it). That said, she was able to refer to the digital recipes, though she found those rather vague. If you have limited cooking knowledge, we recommend sticking to the ready-to-eat options.

Elote Tacos with Lime Rice & Jalapeos

Overall, Sydney found this recipe very easy to make. There wasn’t much to it besides the simple prep, like cutting the radishes and cilantro, stirring the sauce, microwaving the rice, charring the canned corn and then assembling the tacos. The instructions were pretty generic, but since it’s such an easy recipe, she didn’t run into any issues with being confused or hung up on a certain step.

“I love corn, so this was a favorite for me,” she says. “One thing I wish about this recipe is that there was some more crunch to it. There are radishes in this, but I felt like it still needed more oomph.”

Creamy Peanut Noodles with Tofu & Mango Slaw

This was very easy to prepare as a mealjust pull back an inch of the film and microwave for two minutes. Voila! Sydney notes that the meal does have a “frozen” quality to it, but with the tofu and noodles, she found it very filling.

Pros

• Creative meals
• Fully vegan and plant-based
• Fresh ingredients
• Add-ons available

Cons

• Strictly vegan, so may not be appealing to vegetarians
• Non-flexible delivery schedule
• Lack of price transparency

Why You Should Trust Us

All meal delivery reviewsincluding this Purple Carrot revieware backed by testing from different Taste of Hometeam members with varying degrees of cooking expertise. Our testers needs, wants and budgets reflect those of the average shopper.We arent new to testing this product category, either. In addition to over a dozen meal kits, our team has reviewedmeatandchicken deliveryservices likeButcherBox,Snake River FarmsandGood Chop. Our testing extends to grocery services, likeMisfits MarketandThrive Market, as well.

Product Tester and former editorAnnamarie Higleyoversees Taste of Homes product testing team and daily operations in our testing lab. She and her team assess online trends, search traffic and audience engagement to determine which items warrant testing firsthand in our dedicated office space or our homes. This includes everything from kitchen appliances to beauty products to power tools. Knowing we sourced, saw and tested these products ourselves, readers can feel confident in our recommendations and, ultimately, secure in their purchases.

Where To Buy Purple Carrot

If this Purple Carrot review made your mouth water, you can sign up for the plant-based meal service on Purple Carrot’s website. Plans start at $50, though the cost of each plan will differ depending on the meals chosen. Purple Carrot also offers regular discounts and deals, so head over to the site for the most up-to-date prices and promotions.

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Best Overall

Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot offers plant-based meal kits containing fresh ingredients, surprising flavors and filling portions.

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FAQ

Is Purple Carrot organic?

While Purple Carrot sources some organic ingredients, the service doesn’t call itself organic. For a truly organic meal delivery service, try Green Chef.

How to cancel Purple Carrot?

Log into your account and visit the “My Account” page. From there, select “Account Settings,” then “Update Subscription.” Below the option to pause is a button called “Cancel Your Subscription.”

The post Purple Carrot Review: We Tried the Plant-Based Meal Service—Here Are Our Thoughts appeared first on Taste of Home.

What is Cook Unity?

Unlike most meal kits for families, CookUnity focuses on single-serve meals that arrive ready to enjoy. These are typically known as “heat and eat meals.” However, there’s a twist: Each dish arrives freshly prepared by one of CookUnity’s expert chefs. As a result, these meals are much tastier (and classier) than anything you’d find in the frozen food section.

As we learned while testing this service for our CookUnity review, there aremany flexitarian dishes available on the menu. These include keto meal kits and vegetarian options, among dozens of other diet-specific meals. A number of limited-time, seasonal dishes are also released each year, such as turkey and stuffing for Thanksgiving or ham and mashed potatoes for the holidays. Additionally, CookUnity often offers deals like significant discounts, free meals and other savings.

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CookUnity

CookUnity is a meal delivery service that employs real, skilled chefs who prepare each meal. All it takes is a few minutes in the microwave or oven for a delicious, home-cooked dish!

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Our CookUnity Review

Product Testing Manager and former editor Annamarie Higley tested the service for this CookUnity review. She notes that the menu (created and prepared by professional chefs) is incredibly tantalizing. There are also a number of dietary filters, sorting dishes by Seafood, Vegetarian, Beef, Poultry, Vegan, less than 600 Calories, Low Carbs, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low Sodium, Keto Diet, Paleo, High Protein and Low Fat. As customers scroll the menu, they get a preview of the star ratings of each meal as well as a spiciness indicator and calorie count. The menu is very expansive, offering over 200 different dish options in total, with the choice of up to 16 meals per shipment.

The cuisines in each dietary category are diverse, and the meals are creative. “I’m so impressed by the optionsI had a really hard time choosing,” Annamarie says. Eventually, she settled on a menu featuring the following dishes: Falafel-Crusted Artichokes, Caramelized Mushroom Quesadilla, Chicken Cacciatore, Southern Fried Chicken, Chili-Roasted Shrimp and Miso-Glazed Salmon Bowl.

Website and App

The CookUnity website is slick and easy to use, albeit a bit unwieldy in that it offers almost too much information. It’s a little slow when it comes to loading, but it looks modern with cool graphics and nice photos. We love that customers can create a pretty robust, built-out favorites library.

The app looks quite a bit like the website and offers four tabs: Orders, History, Invite and Account. “Orders” is where you edit upcoming orders, including menu selections and delivery details. You can also add an extra order and rate meals within this tab. The “History” tab is where you view previous orders and transactions. “Invite” is where you refer friends. The “Account” tab is where you adjust meal preferences, plan settings, payment methods, favorites, account settings, notifications and other account modifications.

The best feature is under “Meal Preferences,” where you can add other profiles. Annamarie created a profile for her boyfriend so he could detail his own list of preferred cuisines, along with proteins and foods to avoid.

Delivery

CookUnity has a Zero Waste goal, so nearly all the packaging is recyclable, compostable or reusable. Meals arrive stacked up inside a little zippered tote bag with a reflective foil interior. Each meal has a sleeve, plastic film and cardboard tray. These are refrigerated, not frozen, so the insulation is a little lighter. I also think they pack the meals the day of, so they don’t need to be kept chilled overnight. In our bag, there was just one thick ice pack laid right over the top of the stack of meals.

“It was a tracking experience like I’ve never had,” says Annamarie of the delivery experience. “I was able to access minute-by-minute updates on my order and was given details regarding how many stops the delivery person had to make before mine. Once my delivery was next up, I could track what street the delivery person was on, like you would with an Uber or Lyft driver. I also was able to call or message the person if needed.”

Recipes and Prep

Each meal provides two sets of instructions: the “Chef Instructions” and the “Fast Instructions.” The former is the oven-baked version, and the latter is the microwaved version. The instructions are super clear and concise. They describe what to do with the packaging and how long to heat for each respective cooking method. As with most reheated meals, the cooking time depends on your appliances. Annamarie notes that while making these meals is not more complicated than making a frozen pizza, there’s no guarantee that the listed cook time will be accurate, so you might need to adjust accordingly.

The use-by dates of these meals, especially the seafood ones, aren’t very far out because they’re refrigerated rather than frozen. For example, the shrimp dish needed to be eaten by Friday, and Annamarie received it on Tuesday. CookUnity notes that you can freeze the meals to preserve them longer if needed.

Chili-Roasted Shrimp

We baked our first meal in the oven, opting for the “chef” instructions over the “fast” instructions. “I was worried these would be a little overcooked because of how curled up they were, but they were nice and succulent,” reports Annamarie of the shrimp. “Some of the shrimp still even had a nice crust from the roasting, which was then kept intact by baking in the oven, I assume. This really tasted like a reheated home-cooked meal (in a good way).”

However, the real star was the grits. “These grits were just out of this world. I’m not a grits expert, but these were so rich and luscious, and I loved the inclusion of the corn kernels for a bit of textural contrast, so it wasn’t just mush,” says Annamarie. “I couldn’t stop eating them! The best thing in the whole box I got.”

Chicken Cacciatore with Braised Tomato-Olive Sauce

Annamarie microwaved this gluten-free meal kit to get both sides of the CookUnity experience, noting that preparing meals this way is simple. After three minutes in the microwave, she cut into the center of the biggest breast, which was a good eating temperature. It doesn’t get much more foolproof than a fully microwaved mealand a tasty one, to boot!

“I’m a bit biased against chicken breast, but this was cooked pretty well,” says Annamarie. “There was also tons of itit was a sizable piece of meat that would satiate even big appetites. The braised tomato-olive sauce was what really shined, though. It was super savory with the mushrooms and olives. The sauteed onions were left large, so they provided a bit of bite, and the herbs made this flavorful to boot. Yum, yum, yum.”

Caramelized Mushroom Quesadilla

We wanted to give CookUnity’s plant-based meal kits a fair shake, so Annamarie settled on this mushroom-forward dish made in the oven. The results? Delicious!

“The char on the tortilla was so promising! And its edges really crisped up in the ovenlove! Very glad I baked this,” says Annamarie. “There was a dreamy cheesy pull right when I pulled the pieces apart. The mushrooms were perfectly tender, but you definitely need to love mushrooms to enjoy this meal. Their intense umami flavor really shined through.”

While she didn’t see anything about poblano peppers in the description, their earthy zip was a lovely addition. The cheese was mild but delicious and rich. Overall, Annamarie calls this a super satisfying meat-free meal.

Pros

• Great packaging
• Flexible, easy-to-track delivery
• Creative and varied menu
• Lots of dietary-focused dishes
• Fair pricing
• Meals crafted by notable chefs

Cons

• Less health-focused
• Not quite available nationwide

Why You Should Trust Us

All meal delivery reviewsincluding this CookUnity revieware backed by testing from different Taste of Home team members with varying degrees of cooking expertise. Our testers’ needs, wants and budgets reflect those of the average shopper.We aren’t new to testing this product category, either. In addition to over a dozen meal kits, our team has reviewed meat and chicken delivery services like ButcherBox, Snake River Farms and Good Chop. Our testing extends to grocery services, like Misfits Market and Thrive Market, as well.

Product Tester and former editor Annamarieoversees Taste of Home’s product testing team and daily operations in our testing lab. She and her team assess online trends, search traffic and audience engagement to determine which items warrant testing firsthand in our dedicated office space or our homes. This includes everything from kitchen appliances to beauty products to power tools. Knowing we sourced, saw and tested these products ourselves, readers can feel confident in our recommendations and, ultimately, secure in their purchases.

Where To Buy CookUnity Meals

If you’re smitten by the significant number of recipes and delicious endorsements after reading this rave CookUnity review, it’s easy to secure a subscription to CookUnity. Just head over to the website and start building your cart. Fuss-free dishes and chef-created flavors await!

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CookUnity

CookUnity is a meal delivery service that employs real, skilled chefs who prepare each meal. All it takes is a few minutes in the microwave or oven for a delicious, home-cooked dish!

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FAQ

How much is CookUnity?

CookUnity costs as little as $75 for six meals or as much as $178 for 16 meals. Costs also depend on several factors, including whether or not you choose any “premium” meals with pricier proteins. For this CookUnity review, we stuck to the regular menu.

How do you cancel CookUnity?

Navigate to “Settings” and find the “Cancel Subscription ” button. Next, select a reason from the dropdown, leave a comment (optional), check a terms box, and then click “Cancel my subscription.” CookUnity then sends out a confirmation email.

While canceling the subscription after writing our CookUnity review, we noticed that there’s also an option to pause a week. To pause the subscription, toggle through any upcoming delivery weeks and look for a button that says “manage order.” Within the pop-up, there is an option to skip weeks of service.

The post CookUnity Review: We Tried the Heat and Eat Meal Service That Promises Chef Quality Results appeared first on Taste of Home.

The best artificial Christmas trees have come a long way. Today’s options are incredibly lifelike with easy-connect lights, meaning you can skip the tedious setup and get straight to the fun partdecorating! The only hard part is choosing from a behemoth of options, many of which look much different in their online listing photo than they do in real life.

If you’re stuck, we evaluated two of the top artificial Christmas tree brands on the market. We tested seven trees to judge quality, realism and value. Here’s everything you need to know about the King of Christmas vs. Balsam Hill debate.

What’s the difference between King of Christmas and Balsam Hill?

King of Christmas and Balsam Hill are two of the biggest names in the artificial Christmas tree game. You can shop their offerings year-round on their respective websites. Each brand carries trees of various shapes, sizes and light types, so whether you’re looking for a fat Blue Spruce or a skinny Alpine-style fir, you’re likely to find it on either brand’s site.

Both brand’s trees are on the premium end of the spectrum, especially compared to big-box retailer selections. You definitely pay for the quality, realism and easy setup. Prices run the gamut, but Balsam Hill trees range from $349 to $4,199, while King of Christmas trees start at $229 and go up to $3,299. Both brands do run frequent sales, so you can often find a tree for less.

In addition to trees, King of Christmas and Balsam Hill sell other holiday items like garlands, wreaths and ornaments.

How We Tested King of Christmas

To make sure King of Christmas trees live up to the hype, we called in four assorted options for firsthand testing. I, along with editor Emily Way, evaluated each option in our respective homes. Our testing criteria judged the unboxing experience, setup, lights, fluffing process, realism, ornament-friendliness, takedown and price of each tree.

While we ran into a few set-up snags, each King of Christmas tree was incredibly easy to light, thanks to a built-in power pole. Goodbye, fumbling for plugs between scratchy branches! Our trees all came with remote controls, which was a convenient touch. And we absolutely loved the dimmable light feature (among other twinkling settings).

Some of the trees looked more real than others, but the branches were generally sturdy and held ornaments of all sizes with ease. The real darling was the Queen Flock, which was less messy than other flocked trees we tried and looked perfectly snow-kissed.

The Best King of Christmas Trees

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King of Christmas Tribeca Spruce

Even the most expensive trees can take forever to fluff. If you want a tree that looks good without too much finagling, give the Tribeca Spruce a try.

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King of Christmas King Noble Fir

We found setup to be a cinch, thanks to this trees light, 22-pound weight. Its one of the most manageable trees weve come across in our testing.

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King of Christmas Queen Flock

The flocking on this tree is some of the best weve seen; snowy and very lifelike. The thick coating on the branches makes fluffing easy, and ornaments hang securely, too.

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How We Tested Balsam Hill

Do Balsam Hill Christmas trees look as good in real life as they do in Hallmark movies? We went on a mission to find out, testing three assorted options in both our editors’ homes and our Product Testing Lab. We followed the same criteria we applied to King of Christmas trees.

Right out of the box, we knew these trees were the real deal. The mix of branch tips looked incredibly lifelike. The only downside is that Balsam Hill trees require a lot of fluffing. We spent at least 20 minutes on each tree, bending and plying branches into place. Our work was ultimately rewarded by trees that looked just like their online listing photos.

The lights go on through a similar power pole technology as King of Christmas, and we loved the array of lights you can choose. Whether you’re a white light purist or twinkly colored light devotee, there’s an option for everyone.

And, if you’re looking for smart features, the Balsam Hill flip tree is one of the most impressive firs we’ve ever seen. Its unique setup style allows you to roll and then flip the tree into place. The minimal lifting makes this an excellent option for older adults or anyone with mobility issues.

The Best Balsam Hill Trees

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$699 at Amazon

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Balsam Hill Classic Blue Spruce

If you looked up Christmas tree in the dictionary, theres a chance youd find an image of this Blue Spruce. Its the quintessential tree, with its full shape and real-looking needles.

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$699 at Amazon

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We Tried It

Balsam Hill Balsam Fir Flip Tree

To date, we have yet to find a tree that outperforms the flip tree in the easy setup class. You get a fully assembled Christmas tree in less than two minutes.

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We Tried It

Balsam Hill Fraser Fir Tree with Twinkly Light Show

Our testers had tons of fun toying around with the handful of presets and couldve kept exploring this smart trees capabilities for hours if time allowed.

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The Bottom Line: King of Christmas vs. Balsam Hill

Both King of Christmas and Balsam Hill make beautiful, lifelike, high-end Christmas trees. From our extensive firsthand experience, we are confident that these trees will hold up for many seasons. The construction is solid. And we appreciate the smart inclusions found in most tree boxes, like light repair kits and custom storage bags. You really can’t go wrong with either brand.

That said, depending on what you’re specifically looking for, there are scenarios where one brand is preferable to the other. If realism is your top concern, look no further than Balsam Hill. These truly are some of the most realistic trees you can find on the market. We also strongly recommend the patented Balsam Hill flip tree for anyone who struggles to set up a traditional tree. These features come at a price, though. Balsam Hill trees are typically more expensive than comparable King of Christmas options.

If a flocked tree is on your wish list, we adore the King of Christmas Queen Flock. We also really appreciate the built-in dimming feature, which is ideal for anyone who’s ever felt their Christmas tree was a little too bright at times.

The post King of Christmas vs. Balsam Hill: Which Brand Makes a Better Christmas Tree? appeared first on Taste of Home.

While both meal services offer their own benefits, there are some key differences between them. So, which is the best option for your family? To settle the EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh debate for good, our in-house product testing team independently reviewed and researched both over a two-year period. Here’s what you need to know about each of the servicesincluding how they stack up against each other.

Whats the difference between EveryPlate and HelloFresh?

To accurately discuss the differences between the two meal kit services, it’s useful to first look at their similarities. Both services fall into the “meal prep kit” category. This contrasts services like Tovala, which offers heat-and-eat meals that ship almost fully prepped.

Additionally, while not quite as quick as services like Gobble (which promises 15-minute prep), HelloFresh and EveryPlate are relatively beginner-friendly. You don’t need to know fancy techniques or have expensive pans to prepare these meals, which makes them readily accessible for families, college students and working professionals.

Cost and Plan Differences

One key aspect of the EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh debate is the cost of each service, especially as it pertains to cost per serving. Both HelloFresh and EveryPlate are some of the most affordable meal delivery services out there, earning them spots on our list of the best meal kits for families.

That said, EveryPlate is demonstrably more affordable, which is why we chose it as our favorite budget meal kit service. Choose from two, four or six servings per meal, with the option to enjoy anywhere from three to five meals per week. The cost of the service ranges from roughly $36 for three two-serving meals to around $108 for five six-serving meals weekly.

In contrast, HelloFresh offers a similar rotation of two, four or six servings per meal, with the option to add two to six meals in each weekly box. You can also add additional meals for an extra cost. A box filled with two two-serving meals per week rings up at around $57, while six six-serving meals cost around $371.

Recipe Variety

EveryPlate’s weekly menu typically offers around 30 choices. While the menu is smaller than HelloFresh’s, this is part of what keeps EveryPlate’s prices low. Meals are organized into the following categories: Quick & Easy, Veggie and Calorie Smart (plus a few seasonal categories such as “Fall Favorites”). Overall, the menu focuses on simple, easy-to-cook meals.

HelloFresh offers a substantial library of around 70 meals per week. Categories include Calorie Smart, Carb Smart, Protein Smart, Easy Prep, Veggie, Family Friendly, Easy Clean-up, Quick and New. Just like EveryPlate, HelloFresh offers nutritional information for each recipe. Additionally, the recipes are a bit more gourmet than EveryPlate’s, so they may appeal more to foodies.

Dietary Options

With the influx of keto and gluten-free meal kits, it’s important to evaluate the dietary options available for HelloFresh vs. EveryPlate. Both options offer some meals that adhere to dietary constraints. However, folks seeking the best plant-based meal kits will find a more robust selection of options elsewhere. Instead, try a service like Purple Carrot, which only serves plant-based meals.

EveryPlate’s Quick & Easy category boasts the most selections on their menunearly half of the dishes fall into this category. By contrast, our tester, Dylan Fischer, notes that the Veggie and Calorie Smart categories contain significantly fewer meals, topping out at around seven options each. While there’s a full nutritional value label when you open the recipe, there’s no option to sort meals by specific diets aside from vegetarian.

There are a lot of choices available for HelloFresh, including many premium dishes that cost around $9.99 more per serving. However, tester Sheri Kaz notes that in the “Fit & Wholesome” category, she only spied around 24 meal choices for the week. These include meals targeted towards the Calorie Smart, Carb Smart or Protein Smart categories. Out of these, only four of the 70 meals fell under all three tags.

Unique Add-Ons and Product Lines

Unlike Hungryroot, which offersready-made mealsand meals requiring prep, HelloFresh and EveryPlate only offer self-prep options. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t offer additional add-ons. In fact, add-ons are one area where both deliver similar options.

Every meal at EveryPlate offers sides that pair well with the recipe for an additional upcharge. Think: garlic bread, mac and cheese or veggies. The EveryPlate Grocery Store is the brand’s ingredient storefront, offering additional proteins, veggies and sides. Customers are also given the option to add Bundle Boxes to their orders. These are boxes full of crackers, cookies, chips and other snacks.

Subscribers to HelloFresh gain access to the HelloFresh Market, which offers items like proteins, breakfasts, quick meals, condiments, produce and sides for those who want to replace their weekly grocery runs. Similarly to EveryPlate, you can also upgrade most dishes with more proteins or sides for an upcharge.

Sustainability and Packaging

There are a few significant differences in packaging between EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh. Notably, EveryPlate’s ingredients arrive packed into one cardboard box. The proteins sit underneath the other ingredients, directly against the ice pack. The ingredients also don’t arrive packaged by meal, meaning that it’s necessary to parse through them when it’s actually time to cook. Deliveries take place any day of the week from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Similarly, HelloFresh also packages its meat separately from other ingredients. Proteins sit right next to the ice pack at the bottom of the box. Unlike EveryPlate, each meal arrives in its own bag, making it much easier for home cooks to see which ingredient belongs to which recipe. Like with EveryPlate, customers can schedule deliveries on any day of the week. They arrive sometime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Customer Experience and App Usability

On the topic of EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh’s websites and apps, both offer fairly user-friendly technology. EveryPlate’s app is relatively stripped down, with just a few tabs at the bottom containing links to Home, My Menu, Feed Friends, Notifications and Profile. The website is similar, with photos of each dish acting as the main focus.

HelloFresh’s website is equally easy to navigate. Its sidebar lists this week’s menu categories with 20+ recipes per category. Additionally, the app shows current and upcoming orders and the buttons to “Change Meals” or “Edit Delivery.” All nutrition information, ingredients, items not included in the delivery, utensils needed and cooking steps with photos live there, too.

All About HelloFresh

HelloFresh won our hearts as the best meal delivery service for families, and for good reason. Based in Germany, it’s one of the most popular meal delivery kits in the U.S. Launched in the summer of 2021, HelloFresh Market elevated the company from a beloved meal-prep service and suppertime helper into a full-blown online grocery. The brand offers frequent deals and sales, oftentimes including free sides and desserts. Additionally, they have a robust referral program in place for those who recommend the service to others.

Read more about the service in our full HelloFresh review. Learn about how HelloFresh compares to other services by taking a look at our HelloFresh vs. Home Chef andBlue Apron vs. HelloFresh comparisons.

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HelloFresh transforms your weekly meal prep by shipping everything you need for dinners (and beyond) straight to your door.

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All About EveryPlate

EveryPlate is owned by HelloFresh and was established back in 2018 as a lower-cost alternative to HelloFresh. It won us over as the best budget meal delivery service of all the options we’ve tested. EveryPlate follows the same formula as most other meal kit delivery services on the market, offering several tiered subscription options and additional add-ons. That said, in contrast to other services that offer a broad selection of meals, it focuses on utilizing packaging adjustments and condensed menu options to give it an edge on pricing. Read more about the service in our full EveryPlate review.

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EveryPlate meal kits are an affordable way to have delicious recipes and all their ingredients delivered straight to your door.

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The Bottom Line

When you look at all the data, there are a lot of similarities between EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh. This is unsurprising since HelloFresh owns EveryPlate. Therefore, they both use many of the same ingredients and have similar recipes. However, HelloFresh is geared more towards foodies, with gourmet menu options like Pecan Crusted Chicken and Polenta with Zucchini & Carrot Ragu.

On the flip side, EveryPlate is a budget-friendly alternative with less complex meals and flavors. Its menu offers recipes like a Shawarma Chickpeas and Feta Bowl and Crispy Chicken Honey Biscuits, which are a bit easier to prep than HelloFresh’s offerings. Our tests show that both services have yummy meals, great customer service and flexible deliveries. Rest assured that whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy each menu’s offering of delicious weekly meals.

Why You Should Trust Us

These meal delivery services were tested by various Taste of Home team members, all with varying degrees of cooking expertise. Our testers’ needs, wants and budgets reflect those of the average shopper. Plus, since many factors can affect delivery, we tested most services several times to ensure the experience was consistent for multiple testers.

We also aren’t new to testing this product category. In addition to several meal kits, our team has reviewed meat and chicken delivery services like ButcherBox, Snake River Farms and Good Chop. Our testing extends to grocery services, like Misfits Market and Thrive Market, as well.

The post EveryPlate vs. HelloFresh: Which Meal Delivery Service Is Right for You? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Enter Tovala, which ships out meals that are as close to fully prepared as you can get without freezing. The secret is the companion smart oven, which reads each meal and automatically calibrates the oven accordingly. No more pushing buttons or setting timers? Count us in! Of course, our interest was immediately piqued. After trying it out, here’s our full Tovala review.

What is Tovala?

Established in 2015 by David Rabie and Bryan Wilcox, Tovala was born from David’s desire to reduce the number of appliances required to make a delicious, healthful meal. Formerly called Maestro, Tovala (headquartered in Chicago) won the Edward L. Kaplan 71 New Venture Challenge (NVC) in May2015. Since then, Tovala has built up a customer base comprised mainly of young working parents without the time or energy to spend on meal prep.

Tovala’s meal delivery service doesn’t send boxes of loose ingredients or detailed recipe cards like Blue Apron or HelloFresh. Instead, it focuses on ready-made meals a laFactor 75. Unlike your average pre-made meal kit, though, each dish requires just one minute of prep before popping it into Tovala’s proprietary smart oven. This gives the meals a home-cooked quality you won’t find in other heat-and-eat services.

Tovala’s in-house chefs prepare each dish and program each meal’s cooking time and required cooking modes into the smart oven. From there, they ship out the meals fresh to customers. Simply scan the QR code of any Tovala meal using the app and sit back for a low-fuss dinner.

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Our Tovala Review

What really sets Tovala apart from other meal delivery services is the companion smart oven. There are two versions available, including the basic smart oven and a “pro” version with steaming capabilities. The best part about these appliances is that they’re fully functional air fryer toaster ovens, meaning that you can use them for non-Tovala meals as well.

Menu

The menu offers a library of around 50 meals per week. Most meals are single serving, though there are a few two-serving meals available each week. When filling your cart, you can filter the meals by various dietary preferences, including low sodium, carb-conscious, calorie-smart, and gluten-friendly. You have a choice of anywhere from 4 to 16 meals per week.

Some breakfasts are available in addition to traditional entrees. A few meals offer sides like egg rolls and garlic bread for an extra charge. Once you choose all your meals and proceed to the next page, you can add the previously listed add-ons, as well as desserts such as a brownie, cookie or single-serve pineapple upside-down cake and small breakfast items. When choosing meals, pay extra attention to price, as some of the premium meals come with an upcharge.

Website and App

Both the website and app are easy to use and bright and clean-looking without an overwhelming amount of text, tabs or buttons. The app lets subscribers quickly manage upcoming menu selections and deliveries. Users can also access support and cooking instructions for the Tovala oven, including basic instructions for recipes like air-fried chicken or more detailed recipes like pear walnut crisp.

There’s a list of brands with items that cook well in the smart oven, as well as cooking instructions for those specific items. You can also connect the smart oven to WiFi and pair it with the app. Just like other family meal delivery services, it’s easy to skip a week or cancel at any time.

Delivery

Deliveries are flexible, with a choice of either the beginning or end of each week. The meals arrive in a mid-size, branded Tovala cardboard box. The whole interior is lined with fluffy insulation, and the contents are fresh. Each meal’s ingredients come packaged together in dedicated cardboard boxes, along with their ingredient list and any directions. Beneath those ingredient boxes is the meat. Tester Annamarie Higley received sausages, a chicken breast and a turkey patty, which arrived layered between the ingredient boxes and two large frozen gel packs. Note: All the food needs to be refrigerated open receipt.

Recipes

Annamarie chose a menu consisting of the following meals during her week of testing: Cheddar Cheese Turkey Burger, Pulled Pork Carnitas Bowl, Roasted Mushroom Gnocchi Alfredo, Crispy Chicken Potstickers and Sweet Soy Noodles, Italian Sausage in Marinara and a Pesto Chicken Melt.

Roasted Mushroom Gnocchi Alfredo

Each recipe’s instructions are divided into three sections: prep, scan and enjoy. The prep section includes any pre-work. For this recipe, Annamarie had to wash, slice and season the provided mushrooms. She also needed to add cream and water to the gnocchi tray. Then, she scanned the QR code on the recipe card with the app and pressed “start” on the oventhat’s it! After cooking, she followed the “enjoy” instructions, which entailed stirring in the parmesan, letting the food rest, plating it and pouring over the basil vinaigrette.

“The gnocchi themselves were cooked to perfection,” notes Annamarie. “They were pillowy and tender. The alfredo was ingeniousI mean, cream, water and grated Parm mixed together to create this thick, luscious sauce? Amazing. The mushrooms, which initially looked like too much, cooked down a ton, so the ratio was just right. I loved the texture they added to the dish. Lastly, I was dubious of the basil vinaigrette. This seemed overboard to me initially, but I really did enjoy the bright, herbaceous complement to this super indulgent, dairy-laden meal. I used about half the pouch.”

Crispy Chicken Potstickers and Sweet Soy Noodles

For this recipe, Annamarie had to line (and spray!) the sheet pan with foil and oil, transfer the potstickers to the pan and then place the noodles, cabbage, sweet soy broth base and water in a disposable tray. She put the tray in the oven, scanned the QR code and let it cook. Afterward, it was the standard process of letting everything sit for two minutes, then transferring it to a serving bowl and dressing it with sauce.

Pesto Chicken Melt

The prep for this recipe took just under three minutes, and the oven automatically set itself to 20 minutes. When all was said and done, it took just under 25 minutes of cooking to enjoy this meal. This meal uses the same “dump-and-go” method as the others. First, Annamarie put the broccoli in a foil tray, then put the chicken in the other foil tray and topped it with pesto and mozzarella. Afterward, she let the food rest, then tossed the broccoli with the vinaigrette.

“The pesto was super delicious and actually fresh-tasting! I was expecting this to taste like yucky shelf-stable pesto from the supermarket, which I loathe, but this tasted much brighter and more homemade,” says Annamarie. “This entree reminded me of a meal my mom used to make growing up. She’d serve pesto- and mozzarella-topped chicken over marinara-coated spaghetti, so it was kind of nostalgic.”

After testing it for a week, Annamarie is totally taken with Tovala’s premise and meal quality.

Cons:

• Pricey
• Somewhat limited menu

Why You Should Trust Us

All meal delivery reviews are backed by testing from different Taste of Home team members with varying degrees of cooking expertise. Our testers’ needs, wants and budgets reflect those of the average shopper.We aren’t new to testing this product category, either. In addition to over a dozen meal kits, our team has reviewed meat and chicken delivery services like ButcherBox, Snake River Farms and Good Chop. Our testing extends to grocery services, like Misfits Market and Thrive Market, as well.

Tester and former editor Annamarieoversees Taste of Home’s product testing team and daily operations in our testing lab. She and her team assess online trends, search traffic and audience engagement to determine which items warrant testing firsthand in our dedicated office space or our homes. This includes everything from kitchen appliances to beauty products to power tools. Knowing we sourced, saw and tested these products ourselves, readers can feel confident in our recommendations and, ultimately, secure in their purchases.

Where To Buy Tovala Meals

Customers interested in trying Tovala will find their meal kits on the Tovala website. Choose as few as four meals per week for around $60 or as many as 16 meals for around $218. If bought alone, the Tovala smart oven costs $300 for the regular modeland $350 for the pricierpro model. Alternatively, it costs $50 (or $99 for the pro model) if you buy six meals to accompany the oven and subscribe to the service.

While testing the service for our Tovala review, we were totally blown away by the ease and freshness of the meals. While pricey, the addition of the Tovala Smart Oven, coupled with the minimal prep, makes this service a promising option for home cooks operating on limited time.

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KitchenAid Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer

This powerful mixer makes baking a breeze! Shop now and save over 35%!

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All About the KitchenAid Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer

The KitchenAid 5.5-quart bowl-lift stand mixer is a professional-grade kitchen appliance that makes tiring cooking tasks a breeze. It acts as a second set of hands, expertly combining ingredients for a myriad of recipes. The bowl-lift model has twice the power of the Artisan tilt-head mixer and can handle even the toughest jobs. Your KitchenAid comes with 11 speeds and compatibility with 10+ stand mixer attachments. Choose from one of five sleek colorsContour Silver, Black Matte, Empire Red, Agave or Porcelain White.

I was gifted this exact stand mixer as a college graduation present, and over six years later, it’s still going strong. I’ll admit that the bowl-lift function does take some getting used toespecially if you’re already familiar with the tilt-head designbut this mixer’s speed and power are unmatched. Especially when kneading dough (I’ve used mine to whip up everything from challah to babka to pizza crust), this appliance turns a tedious, time-consuming chore into a quick task. I love tossing ingredients into my KitchenAid, turning it on and watching it do the work for me. While it spins, I can get a headstart on the next step in my recipe or take a quick coffee break. Talk about the ultimate holiday helper!

How to Shop the KitchenAid Stand Mixer Sale 2024

For a limited time, you can buy a KitchenAid 5.5-quart bowl-lift stand mixer for just $280. That’s a savings of $170or 37%. This deal is available exclusively through the KitchenAid website while supplies last.

Plenty of other KitchenAid countertop appliances are included in the Black Friday sale, too. Save big on blenders, stand mixer bowls and attachments, air fryer toaster ovens, cordless gear and much more. You can even find discounts on other KitchenAid stand mixer models. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or getting a headstart on holiday gifting, this KitchenAid Cyber Monday sale is not one you want to miss!

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Size options:7-, 8- and 9-foot |Warranty:2 years| Light options:LED white, Unlit |Inclusions:Stand, storage bag, fluffing gloves, remote |Price: $529 (7-foot with LED white lights)

The holiday task we hate, hate, hatedouble hateand loathe entirely? Fluffing the Christmas tree. Call us a Grinch, but no one wants to spend hours finagling scratchy branches when there are garlands and ornaments to hang!

Luckily, the King of Christmas Tribeca Spruce makes the process pretty painless, according to tester and Editor Emily Way. The first time she put the spruce up, she found it took less time to shape than other trees. The full shape and intuitively shaped branches make for easy bending, and ornaments of various weights hang securely. Plus, after fluffing, only a handful of needles came off during Emily’s testing.

As a pet parent, Emily was impressed with how sturdy this tree felt, especially compared to budget options. She has hope it will stand up to her active cats! Plus, it looks incredibly realistic, thanks to a mix of branch tips and a dreamy blue-green hue.

The lights on this tree connect with built-in trunk technology, so all you have to do is plug the tree in once it’s assembled. It also comes with a remote control that oversees eight twinkling functions and three dimmer settings. One note: Emily found the remote was a bit unresponsive at times.

The post The Best King of Christmas Trees, Tested by Holiday Experts appeared first on Taste of Home.

If cookware, bakeware, small appliances, cutlery or kitchen tools are on your list, listen carefully. GreenPan just announced its Cyber Monday sale and major savings are in store. Here’s what you need to know.

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GreenPan Cyber Monday Sale

Shop sales up to 75% off.

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The Best GreenPan Sales in 2024

Whether you’re hoping to stock up on new cookware before the new year or plan to give everyone on your holiday shopping list the gift of new pots and pans, there are plenty of deals to go around. GreenPan is hosting its Cyber Monday sale with deals up to 75% off. But don’t wait to order; this deal won’t last long.

Here’s what we’re shopping on GreenPan’s website:

• Valencia Pro Ceramic Frypan Set: Snag three of the editor-approved Valencia Pro frypans for $100. That’s a savings of 54%! Plus, the three pan sizes8, 9.5 and 11 inchare versatile enough for any cooking task.
• Enameled Iron 1873 Dutch Oven: Dutch oven bread is in your future, thanks to this stunning 5.3-quart beauty. On clearance for $110, you’ll save a cool 55% for powerful performance.

How We Tested GreenPan

Our team of expert editors, foodies and home cooks have been testing GreenPan cookware for over two years. Ive personally used it in my home kitchen, and I even bought my parents a 13-piece set for Christmas one year. Its reliable and effortlessly nonstickwhich is a winning duo when scrambling eggs in the morning or reheating last nights leftovers.

Most recently, our Product Testing Team put GreenPan through the paces as part of ourbest ceramic cookwareshowdown. Even when pitted against 16 other brandsincluding viral darlings likeCarawayandOur PlaceGreenPan came out as best overall.

Our team weighed four key metrics: packaging, features, performance/user experience and value, while collecting over 675 data points. The team fried eggs (both with and without oil), seared chicken breast and flipped crepes. We were impressed with just how nonstick the GreenPan coating is, with every food neatly sliding across the surface. And while ceramic cookware shouldnt get as hot as cast iron or stainless steel, we were still impressed by the chicken, which cooked to a perfect shade of bronze.

Plus, cleanup is just as easy as cooking. Grease, cooked-on food bits and even stubborn egg residue washes or wipes away with minimal effort. Keep in mind thoughlikeallnonstick pans, GreenPan cookware does lose some of its coating with normal wear and tear. After about a year of daily use, my pan started to require a bit more oil or a little scrubbing after use, but it was still perfectly functional.

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You can shop GreenPan and all of these incredible holiday deals directly on the brand’s website.

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Storing that collection, though, can be a bit of a headache. I’ve tried a number of different methods, such as wrapping each trinket in tissue paper and nestling inside a storage bin or packing each piece inside its own tiny box. So far, these DIY methods haven’t met my standards. They either take up too much space or leave my precious (and fragile!) pieces vulnerable to breakage.

For Christmas 2024, I made it my mission to find a solution. And that’s when I stumbled upon the Balsam Hill rolling ornament storage chest. I tested this organizer, along with a set of Balsam Hill ornaments, to see if my storage woes would finally meet their match.

What is Balsam Hill ornament storage?

Balsam Hill ornament storage offers a sleek, compact way to keep your adornments safe. Available in three sizes to fit 100, 120 or 150 ornaments, each holder features a bright red exterior. It’s built like a suitcase, rolling around on four caster wheels and including a retractable handle. Each chest includes several easy-to-remove trays with fabric-lined dividers for nestling ornaments of all shapes and sizes. There’s even a front zippered pocket for holding ornament hooks! This smart storage solution thought of everything, and it’s beholden to the high quality we’ve come to expect from Balsam Hill.

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Balsam Hill Rolling Ornament Organizer

Keep your precious ornaments safe with this genius chest organizer. It's pricey, but worth it for the peace of mind!

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How We Tested It

I’ve been testing the 100-ornament rolling storage chest and 35-piece Alpine Grove ornament collection since September 2024.

Unboxing and Assembly

Both the ornaments and ornament chest arrived in standard Balsam Hill boxes. The ornaments were split between two boxes, each lined with styrofoam packing material. A few of the less breakable ornaments, like the twig balls, were wrapped in paper. I was impressed that there was zero breakage. Some glitter had fallen off, but none of the glass ornaments were chipped, cracked or otherwise harmed.

The ornament storage arrived flat and required some light assembly. For only needing to put in two screws, it was surprisingly challenging. The angle and black interior made it tricky to get the correct angle aligned to put the screw ineven with a flashlight. I’d recommend a helper so someone can gently tug on the metal framing while the other person screws. By myself, this step took about 15 minutes.

Next, you need to unfold the ornament holders and add the dividers. This step is very simple and cathartic. To finish assembly, stack each of the five holders inside the case.

Once assembled, I was able to fully appreciate the high quality of the organizer. It’s made of the same durable material as the Balsam Hill flip tree’s storage bag. The zippers glide easily and the handle feels like a nice piece of luggage. I also love that there’s a pocket on the front for ornament hooks and a label on the side. (I have multiple trees in my home, so I love this detail for keeping collections straight!)

Ornament Storage

Once assembled, it was time to test the fit. I began arranging the Alpine ornamentswhich I picked for their wide array of shapes and sizesin the organizer.The dividers create 20 pockets in each holder. But you could remove a slot or two to make space for large or long ornaments. Additionally, if you have really small ornaments, you could get away with placing a few in each slot.

I found that the Balsam Hill ornaments fit nicely. The longer, finial shapes required me to remove a divider, and some of the extra-large pieces, like the twine balls, didn’t fit at all. That said, this ornament collection runs large overallwhich is why they make such an impact on the tree!

As far as security goes, each ornament was snug. If you have really delicate pieces, you could wrap them in tissue paper before nestling inside, but I don’t think it’s necessary for most baubles. I like that there’s a large black piece that goes on the top of the last row, too, for extra protection.I rolled the case around a bit, jostling the ornaments inside, and they didn’t budge.

Value

Now, there’s no denying this ornament organizer is an investment. It costs $269, with larger sizes going for even more. If you primarily have plastic, felt, shatterproof or otherwise durable pieces, it’s likely not worth the cost. But if you’re an ornament collector with highly delicate pieces, this chest is worth it for peace of mind. I’m already planning to buy a second for my ever-growing Old World Christmas assortment and treasured Patience Brewster “Dash Away” reindeer set.

Pros

• Safe and secure way to stash fragile ornaments
• Includes wheels and a retractable handle for easy maneuvering
• Fits up to 100 ornaments (or even more if they’re small)
• High-quality canvas
• Smart details, like a front pocket and label

Cons

• Pricey
• A little tricky to assemble
• Not suitable for extra-large ornaments

Why You Should Trust us

Im a holiday gifting and Christmas decorating expert with nearly a decade of editorial experience. My work has been featured inFamily Handyman,Readers Digest,Better Homes & Gardensand, of course,Taste of Home. To date, Ive contributed to testing over a dozenartificial Christmas treesincluding Balsam Hill trees (like the smart Twinkly tree) and King of Christmas trees. I also have experience testing a Balsam Hill wreath and garland. An avid holiday enthusiast, my goal is to help our readers find the best products for making merry.

Where To Buy Balsam Hill Ornament Storage

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Balsam Hill Rolling Ornament Organizer

Ornament collectors, this one's for you! We were impressed with this rolling chest's quality and ample storage space.

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You can pick up all three sizes of the ornament organizer, including the 100-ornament chest we tested, at Balsam Hill. Prices start at $269. While pricey, it’s a worthwhile investment to keep your ornaments safe season after season.

The Alpine Grove ornament collection we tested is also available at Balsam Hill. The set includes 35 handcrafted pieces in an assortment of forest-themed shapes for $299, or roughly $8.50 an ornament. Considering the quality and detail, this is a great set for anyone starting or looking to grow their ornament collection.

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We’re no strangers to these impressive trees. In fact, another Grandin Road pick made our best artificial tree list as the best slim pick. But when we discovered the realistic 9-foot Woodside Christmas Tree, we just had to try it. Between the lifelike evergreen appearance and mammoth size, we wanted to see how it lookedand performedin the average living room. Is it as unwieldy as it seems? Our Product Testing Team took the plunge and ordered one to find out.

What is the Grandin Road Christmas tree?

The Grandin Road Woodside Christmas tree is realistic and boasts down-swept tips, a broad profile and warm, white lights. While its lifelike pine needles are a serious draw (and part of the reason it’s on the pricey side), the most intriguing aspect of this traditional tree is its size. It’s available in either the usual 7.5-foot size or a colossal 9-foot option that looks straight out of a Dickensian novel.

Extra-full needles eliminate the need for hours of fluffing, and the tree comes readily strung with up to 1,200 mini-lights. Additionally, the electrical cord is a generous 60 inches long, so it’s easy to plug it in several feet from the base. The best part? Once the tree is assembled, all you have to do is plug it in, and the lights come onno fussing or connections necessary.

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Woodside Christmas Tree

Realistic and enormous, the Woodside Christmas Tree is our favorite option for true Christmas fanatics.

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Testing Team Evaluation

This behemoth tree measures in at exactly 9 feet, just as advertised. It comes in a single large box containing four pieces, along with a stand, bag with fluffing gloves, extra fuses and setup instructions. The tree is rather heavy, so we recommend securing two people (and a stepladder) for setup.

Two different types of needles add to the realism. Fluffing the tree doesn’t produce much fallout, but our team noted they lost three sprigs of the tree in the process. The fluffing process is also pretty straightforwardif you were feeling lazy, you wouldn’t need to fluff this for more than a few minutes. Our testers were impressed with its shape after around 13 minutes of maneuvering branches.

Connecting the pieces is so simple that the tree’s setup rivals our beloved Balsam Hill Flip Tree. Most Grandin Road Christmas trees use a quick-connect pole setup. This configuration allows each piece to snap together easily and eliminates the need to search for light connections since the lights connect via the central pole. Replacement lights are available in case any burn out, which is something we appreciate.

The tree’s branches are strong and sturdy enough for various ornaments, including everything from heavy heirloom angels to clip-on floating candles. It’s a very full tree, and the branches and needles err on the dense side. Fitting longer ornaments may be tough because of this, though the branches are flexible enough to rearrange with ease. As for the bottom, opt for a tree skirt over a collarwe predict a regular-sized collar may be a tight squeeze.

Storage is as simple as arranging the pieces back in the box. While the box stretches a bit, everything fits fairly well considering the size of the tree.

Long-Term Testing Update

Senior Set Stylist Melissa Franco has owned the Grandin Road Christmas tree for one year. Overall, she’s impressed with its performance, size and beauty.

“Last year, whenever people walked in the door, I received a lot of compliments,” she says. “Its an impressive size, standing at 9 feet tall. The quality of branches and needles is good, and I can hang heavier ornaments on the branches without worrying about them falling off.”

She notes that the setup is really plug and play, especially with the quick-connect pole configuration. “The lights already on the tree are bright and plentiful (and replaceable, if needed). I come from the days when I had trees that I needed to snap in each branch individually and string my own lights, so this tree is awesome! I look forward to setting up my tree even earlier in the season now.”

Despite loving her Grandin Road Christmas tree, Melissa notes a few cons. First, though the setup is easy, it takes quite a while for her to fluff the branches to her likingsomething expected, given the size. She also cautions the large size means she had to purchase an extra-large Christmas tree storage bag. Those looking for a slightly smaller size should consider this Frontgate tree, which comes in heights as small as 6.5 feet tall.

“My tree may be the exception, but the bottom two branches on one side hang lower than the rest, creating a bare spot in the tree,” says Melissa. “Ive tried fluffing the branches to fill the space, but the bare spot is noticeable. Also, since the tree is larger widthwise, it is a little difficult to reach the outlet and plug it in. A power foot button or a remote wouldve been a nice addition to make this tree even better.”

Pros

• Quick light setup via center pole
• Doesn’t require much fluffing
• Impressive 9-foot size
• Comes with extra bulbs and gloves
• Little fallout
• Flexible branches

Cons

• Heavy
• Pricey

Why You Should Trust Us

Our Product Testing team is home to shopping enthusiasts with a combined decade of experience recommending and testing products. We try out each product in our Product Testing Lab alongside similar options. Operating this way allows us to easily compare products and test them under strictly controlled conditions. We’ve tried a variety of Christmas trees in order to find the best options, from Balsam Hill options to alternative Christmas trees.

Once we finish our initial testing, team members test top performers long-term. This process lets us see how they perform after extended use and in our own homes.

Where To Buy Grandin Road Christmas Trees

Grandin Road Christmas treesincluding the Woodside Christmas Treeare available for purchase on the Grandin Road website. Say goodbye to allergy-inducing pine needles and lengthy cleanup without losing out on the Christmas spirit with these realistic options!

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Woodside Christmas Tree

Realistic and enormous, the Woodside Christmas Tree is our favorite option for true Christmas fanatics.

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The post Grandin Road Christmas Trees Review: Our Product Testing Team Loves This Realistic Option appeared first on Taste of Home.

As an avid holiday decorator and professional product tester, I’ve had the pleasure of trying wreaths that run the gamut, from $15 on clearance at a big-box store to $150+ beauties from a specialty shop. After weeks of testing, I can confirm that you really do get what you pay forand Balsam Hill wreaths are some of the best in the business.

What are Balsam Hill wreaths?

Balsam Hill wreaths bring the beautiful, lifelike realism of Balsam Hill Christmas trees to your front door. The winter evergreen wreath we tested is just one of many bountiful options the brand offers. Its available in six sizes22, 24, 30, 34, 48 and 60 inches. There’s truly a size for every decorating need, indoors and out! The lights are battery-powered, except for on the largest size. The smallest size we tested also comes with a battery-operated candle for more timeless charm. The wreath is outdoor safe and has UV protection. (Note: Balsam Hill recommends displaying it for only three months at a time to ensure the greenery stays beautiful for multiple years.)

For a cohesive look, you can also find the same foliage in an entire collection of garlands, a swag, a hanging basket, potted trees, a window box and a front door kit.

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Balsam Hill Winter Evergreen Wreath

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How We Tested It

Ive been testing the 22-inch Balsam Hill outdoor winter evergreen foliage wreath with battery-powered, clear LED lights since September 2024.

Unboxing and Assembly

The wreath arrived snuggled inside a standard Balsam Hill box. It came with instructions for the lights and candle but not much else. Many of the Balsam Hill products I’ve previously tested include a little box with extra fuses and bulbs. However, this wreath uses LED clear lights that can’t be replaced but burn much longer than traditional bulbs.

Right out of the box, I could tell this wreath was quality. First, there was zero shedding left behind in the box when I lifted it out. The cheaper wreaths I’m accustomed to drop needles, berries and glitter like crazy, so I was excited to see that this wreath left no trace behind. It also looked very realistic. The berries, in particular, blew me away. Many faux wreaths have little styrofoam balls coated in a red seal that, if scratched or bumped, lose their coating (or fall off entirely). The Balsam Hill berries were plump and springy, almost the texture of a stress ball. They were very securely attached, and when I purposely tried to scrape some of the coating off, it didn’t budge.

The foliage was equally impressive. This wreath features a mix of cedar and fir that looks incredibly lifelike. The only thing missing is the fresh pine scent!

Set-Up

To set it up, I grabbed a wreath hanger and some batteries. I added three AA batteries to the wreath’s compartment. The candle came tied to the wreath with metal wire. After a few minutes of finagling, I realized I needed to remove the wire to access the bottom and put two AA batteries in. The instructions didn’t mention this, but it was pretty intuitive. After a few minutes of work, the wreath was lit and ready to go.

The hanger for this wreath is huge. No flimsy little piece of wire here! It’s compatible with any number of wreath-hanging methods, which allows you to place this beauty anywhere inside or outside of your home. One quirk to noteif you are planning to hang it on your front door, don’t expect it to fit between a storm door. The wreath is too full for most standard depths.

Lights

The lights have three settings: on, timer and off. The candle uses a different type of tech that is quite touchy. It has a little photo sensor that automatically turns on in darkness and off when it senses light. This is great if you plan to hang your wreath in direct sunlight, but if you’re decorating a dim bedroom, hallway or other low-light space, it will want to stay on all the time. Luckily, you simply twist the base of the candle to turn this feature off.

I love that I’m able to enjoy the glow of lights on my wreath without the need for an outlet or extension cord. However, I feel that the tone of the LEDs and the candle clash slightly. The LEDs are slightly cooler than I expected, and the candle “flame” is yellow-orange.

Value

The wreath I tested costs $149 (although it’s frequently on sale). While pricey, quality shines at every opportunity: The frame! The foliage! The lights! It’s an investment that should last for many holiday seasons. Plus, a comparable fresh wreath in my area would cost between $30 and $50, and that’s without lights and a candle.

Now, I love the natural simplicity of this wreath. But some may find it a bit plain for their tastes. In that case, there’s still plenty of space to add on ribbons, picks and sprays to make this wreath your own. You can also check out Balsam Hills’ other wreaths, like the dazzling Gilded Forest hanger or sweet Sugared Apples ring.

Pros

• Incredibly full and lifelike
• High-quality construction for durability and longevity
• Zero shedding
• Minimal fluffing required
• Built-in timer
• Large variety of coordinating garlands, mini trees, etc. for cohesive decor

Cons

• Lights skew cool, except for the candle, which is very warm
• Photo-sensitive candle feature can be finicky
• Wreath is too thick to hang between most storm doors
• Pricey

Why You Should Trust Us

Im a holiday gifting and Christmas decorating expert with nearly a decade of editorial experience. My work has been featured inFamily Handyman,Readers Digest,Better Homes & Gardensand, of course,Taste of Home. To date, Ive contributed to testing over a dozenartificial Christmas treesincluding theBalsam Hill flip tree, thesmart Twinkly tree and King of Christmas trees. I also have experience testing Balsam Hill garland, ornaments and ornament storage. An avid holiday enthusiast, my goal is to help our readers find the best products for making merry.

Where To Buy Balsam Hill Wreaths

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Balsam Hill Winter Evergreen Wreath

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The post Balsam Hill Wreath Review: This Natural Beauty Adds Holiday Charm Indoors or Out appeared first on Taste of Home.

But for those of us with tiny kitchens, finding glamorous andspace-saving kitchenware is still a substantial challenge. That’s why I’m so excited about bella Kitchen Appliances’ newest launch, which promises to be a “first-of-its-kindkitchenware system that saves up to 50% more space.”

What Are Bella Kitchen Appliances?

Bella’s newest collection comes from the minds behind the ever-popular Beautiful by Drew line at Walmart. We’re already big fans of budget-friendly Beautiful by Drew appliances. In fact, this sleek and affordable brand makes our favorite toaster and some of the prettiest cookware we’ve tried (just take a look at our Hero Pan review).

The new bella kitchen appliances are smaller than the average kitchen appliance, with some offering additional space-saving features like a “fold-and-store” construction. Despite the slimmer profiles and shrunken-down sizes, they’re still functional enough for everyday use.

Bella’s newest collection includes a stackable cookware set, four-quart air fryer,ultra-slimtwo-slice toaster,folding griddle,flip and store blender, waffle maker, espresso machine, foldable warming tray andtwo-in-one coffee maker. Each of the nine pieces offers the perfect balance between space-saving and sleek. They also come in several stylish colors, including neutral “oat milk,” baby pink “blossom,” rich purple “plum,” and a pleasant blue shade called “surf.”

Our Favorite Bella Products

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4-Quart Slim Air Fryer

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Featuring a PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating and gorgeous matte finish, this four-quart air fryer measures just over eight inches wide. Its longer basket means that it can fit more than comparable air fryers, and the quick digital controls make it easy to air fry, bake, roast, broil, reheat or dehydrate dinners in minutes. Plus, its similar in style to the Beautiful by Drew air fryer, which won us over as the best air fryer on a budget in our tests. The best part? It’s completely budget friendly at under $50!

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Ceramic Fold-n-Store Griddle

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Sure, this mini griddle is adorable with its little handle and fluted details. But its also a kitchen workhorse, boasting two individually controlled ceramic temperature zones that reach up to 400F. A dishwasher-safe drip tray catches any dribbles, and we love that it folds in half when were finished cooking for easy storage. At only 5.5 inches wide once folded, its easy to stash away in a cupboard.

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Two-Slice Slim Toaster

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This two-slice slim toaster is one of my favorite bella kitchen appliances, and not just because it reminds me of the editor-loved Beautiful toaster. Thanks to its ultra-slim profile (taking under four inches of room), it slides into the teeniest cracks and crevices of the kitchen. The secret is its single extra-long slot rather than the typical side-by-side slots. This not only gives it a long-yet-slender appearance, but also ensures that it fits big slices of sourdough. But the biggest win? It’s available for only $20. Score!

Where to Buy bella Kitchen Appliances

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bella Kitchen Appliances

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Bella kitchen appliances are available on Amazon, Target and at Macys. Prices range from $20 to $80, making each pick a budget-friendly (and eye-friendly) option for home cooks.

The post This Foldable, Streamlined Kitchenware Collection Is a Space-Saving Dream for Small Kitchens appeared first on Taste of Home.

While testing 10 of the best air fryer ovensincluding options from Breville, Kalorik and KitchenAidthe Cosori air fryer toaster oven won us over not just for its performance but for its price. This small appliance allows you to bake, broil and roast without splurging.

What is the Cosori air fryer oven?

With 11 functions, the Cosori air fryer oven allows home cooks to do everything from make a pizza to roast a chicken to air fry to their heart’s content.

Crafted with stainless steel, it’s a little on the heavier side, coming in at 22 pounds. It’s also taller than other models, but that allows it to have a 26-quart capacity. Because it’s a little bulky, it may be harder to store while not in use. While this air fryer oven is pretty typical in appearance, it has physical buttons and dials. Some testers on our Product Testing team thought these made it seem more approachable and less intimidating, while others felt they made it look less sleek.

The Cosori air fryer oven includes an oven rack, food tray, fry basket, crumb tray and recipe book. It also connects to Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

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$159.99 at Amazon

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Cosori Smart 11-in-1 Air Fryer

This budget-friendly option browns food nicely, is easy to clean and offers plenty of room for everything from chicken to sheet-pan cake.

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How We Tested the Cosori Air Fryer Oven

We started off testing the Cosori air fryer oven with six slices of bread. Based on the manual, we put the rack on the highest rung, turned the dial to the toast function and adjusted the temp/slices button and time/shade button. Toasting took 4 minutes and 45 seconds, and the inside filled with condensation. Each slice of bread was very evenly toasted on the top, but there was a little bit of inconsistency in browning based on where the slices were located. We weren’t wowed, but it was still decent.

Next, we tested the air-frying capabilities with French fries. We set the heat to 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 11 minutes. We spritzed the fries with spray oil. During this test, we encountered one difficulty with the air fryer: The preset timer immediately began counting down as soon as the appliance was done preheating. The French fries were not the Cosori air fryer oven’s best moment. While we may have slightly overfilled the machine, at least 75 percent of the fries were underdone, and only a few were golden brown. The floppy fries were good as far as floppy fries go, but we have higher expectations for such a basic air fryer task.

Luckily, the Cosori proved itself during the sheet cake test. We baked it at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, and the final result had a beautiful, consistent color across 80 percent of the cake, although a small part of it was a lot lighter than the rest. Knowing now how this countertop oven cooks, if we had rotated the pan, the finish could have been consistent across the entire cake.

Finally, we made it to the chicken test. We roasted our chicken at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour and 30 minutes, based on one of the recipes included with the machine. We found that the chicken cooked faster than anticipated, and when we pulled it out, some parts of the meat measured 172 degrees Fahrenheit, making them overcooked and drier (although part of that was user error). The trick was rotating the chicken (we did it at the 45-minute mark) to guarantee consistent cooking. Overall, we were very impressed. The bird had great color and was crispy, and our team enjoyed eating it. While the Cosori’s height didn’t make much of a difference for our other tests, we appreciated it while roasting the chicken.

Pros

• Very affordable
• Intuitive LCD screen along with clear buttons and one knob
• Automatic preheat kicks in immediately when you set the time/temp
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Tall height makes it fit a bit awkwardly on counters
• Heats somewhat unevenly
• Heavy for its size

FAQ

How do you turn off the Cosori air fryer toaster oven?

Some versions of the Cosori air fryer toaster oven have a power button. If yours does, all you need to do is press it to turn the machine off. If yours does not have a power button, press and hold the time/shade button for 3 seconds until the machine turns off. The toaster oven will also automatically turn off if it’s inactive for 30 minutes.

How do you clean a Cosori air fryer oven?

The manual advises hand-washing all the removable parts in warm, soapy water rather than using the dishwasher. For our cleaning, we hand-washed the baking tray and wiped the interior and exterior with a damp cloth.

Why You Should Trust Us

The Cosori air fryer oven was one of many that our Product Testing team tested. Each air fryer was put through identical rounds testing different types of food. They were scored based on performance. The lower-performing options were eliminated each round. The Cosori air fryer oven was one of five that made it to the final round of roasting chicken. We also evaluated the options based on their accessories, features and budget. Plus, our team has years of experience testing small kitchen appliances, from food processors to single-serve coffee makers.

I’ve written many product reviews and gift guides and am well-versed in evaluating a product’s performance and features to meet consumers’ needs and budgets. As a consumer, I’m also very frugal, and I’m always excited to find high-performing, lower-cost options.

Where To Buy the Cosori Air Fryer Oven

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$159.99 at Amazon

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Cosori Smart 11-in-1 Air Fryer

Want to try an air fryer toaster ovenwithout splurging? The Cosori option blends performance and price.

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$159.99 at Amazon

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The Cosori air fryer toaster oven is available at Cosori, Walmart and Amazon for around $160.

Editor’s note: Cosori recently launched an updated version of this unit with a twelfth function: sous vide. Additionally, they made improvements to the power button and the general user-friendliness of the appliance.

The post Cosori Air Fryer Toaster Oven Review: This Sleek Appliance Blends Price With Performance appeared first on Taste of Home.

Our Product Testing team tried it out firsthand, putting it through three rounds of thorough testing. Out of the 10 air fryer toaster ovens we tested, this emerged as the best overall option. And trust us, the competitionincluding models from Breville, Kalorik and Cosoriwas tough!

What is the KitchenAid toaster oven air fryer?

The KitchenAid toaster oven air fryer is a workhorse of a kitchen appliance, letting you make perfectly golden morning toast or whip up healthier meals through its air fryer settings. Its quality shouldn’t be a surprise, given KitchenAid’s general caliber of products. (We rave about others in our KitchenAid food processor review and KitchenAid stand mixer review.)

This toaster oven’s 12 preset cooking functions are a testament to just what it can do, with options ranging from bagel toasting to baking to keeping your dishes warm. It’s designed for versatility, with a temperature range from 80 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect a couple of toys, including an air-fry basket, temperature probe (more on that later), 13×9-inch baking pan with a grill rack, removable metal drip and crumb tray and removable metal rack. It is a bit on the larger side, so expect this to be a permanent fixture on your countertop.

The KitchenAid countertop oven has a tinted door, which is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Some of our testing team found it sleek and sophisticated, a nice change to the more industrial appearance of other models. Others thought it risked getting grubby in the long run, and noted that it makes it hard to watch your food cooking.

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KitchenAid Dual Convection Countertop Oven

Our best overall air fryer toaster oven is packed with smart features, including a built-in meat thermometer.

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How We Tested the KitchenAid Countertop Oven

For every air fryer on our list, we started out testing with the basics: toast. There is a preset button for thatas well as buttons for the temperature/shade and the time/slicesso it was easy to program based on our preferences. We set six slices for a 4 out of 8 shade and waited 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

Though toasting took longer than other options, the KitchenAid countertop oven immediately proved itself a top performer with a nice golden brown piece of toast. Every slice in the two rows was browned evenly. This wasn’t a surprise, given the performance of the KitchenAid toaster.

Admittedly, the French fries weren’t as much of a success. We air-fried them at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 11 minutes. Preheating took a little longer than expected, and after 17 minutes, our French fries were still droopy and overwhelming. They seemed warmed through, rather than crispy and crunchy.

The KitchenAid countertop oven redeemed itself with the sheet cake test. We baked the cake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes and were impressed by the rise, caramelization and evenness.

Then came the final test for our top contenders: a roasted chicken. Rather than setting a timer, we set a target temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which took about 50 minutes (the fastest of any we tested). It tasted delicious, and the meat was tender. The skin could have gotten a little bit crispier, but to be fair, we tasted it a little while after cooking, which may have contributed to that.

Pros

• User-friendly LCD screen with buttons and one knob
• Sleek and elegant design
• Performs at a consistently high quality across different types of food
• Meat probe makes monitoring temperature very straightforward

Cons

• Buzzer is very quiet; if you’re not in the same room, you could miss it
• Tinted window makes it difficult to see inside

FAQ

How do you clean a KitchenAid toaster oven?

All you’ll need is some warm water, dish soap and cleaning cloths. We hand-washed the different elements inside, like the multipurpose pan that we’d used for the chicken. We wiped down the interior (which the manufacturer says is non-stick) and exterior with a damp cloth. As far as cleaning went, it was pretty standard. It’s recommended that you clean the air fryer each time you use it to reduce build-up.

How do you turn on a KitchenAid toaster oven?

Select the cooking function you want, set it to the desired temperature, and you’re ready to go! Before heating up the toaster oven, make sure the rack is situated in the right position.

Does KitchenAid make an air fryer?

Yes. KitchenAid makes several models of air fryer countertop ovens. There is a slightly less expensive digital option, but we like this one for its size and performance and how much it can handle.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team put multiple different air fryers to the test, evaluating both their features and their performance. We tested bread, frozen French fries, yellow sheet cake and roasted chicken, eliminating air fryers throughout each round. Plus, this isn’t our first small kitchen appliances test. Our team is well-versed in reviewing everything from food processors to single-serve coffeemakers.

I’ve written numerous product round-ups and gift guides, helping consumers find high-quality options that fit their lifestyles, preferences and budgets. I also grew up in a household that heartily embraced the concept of a countertop oven and I’ve remained a fan.

Where To Buy the KitchenAid Air Fryer Oven

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KitchenAid Dual Convection Countertop Oven

Our best overall air fryer toaster oven is packed with smart features, including a built-in meat thermometer.

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The KitchenAid Air Fryer Oven costs $320. It’s available from KitchenAid as well as Amazon and Walmart.

The post Kitchenaid Toaster Oven Air Fryer Review: The Best Overall Option for Countertop Cooking appeared first on Taste of Home.

Out of the best air fryer toaster ovens that we testedincluding models from top brands like Breville, Cosori and KitchenAidthe Kalorik Maxx was the most tricked-out option.

What is the Kalorik Maxx air fryer oven?

The Kalorik Maxx brings together two of our favorite things: air fryers and toaster ovens. It rapidly speeds up cooking times and has 21 smart preset options, which we found were pretty decent across the board. With this air fryer oven, you can bake, toast, sear, dehydrate, boil and more.

Boasting a set of French doors and a stainless steel finish, the Kalorik MAXX brings a sophisticated look to your kitchen. It also brings a lot of accessories, including an air-frying basket, baking tray, bacon tray, rotisserie spit and forks, plus a bonus cookbook.

Weighing just over 16 pounds, it has a large, 26-quart capacity yet is still light enough that you could store it in your cabinets rather than keeping it permanently on your counter.

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Kalorik Maxx Digital Air Fryer Oven

After thorough testing, this French door air fryer oven earned our best accessories badge.

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How We Tested the Kalorik Air Fryer Oven

We tested the Kalorik air fryer oven using a designated methodology. We prepped four different types of food to weigh the oven’s performance and capacity.

We started by toasting four slices of bread using the toast setting at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes. We weren’t overly impressed with the result. The toasting was uneven on the top and bottom of the bread, and the bottom had inconsistent browning.

Luckily, the Kalorik Maxx air fryer oven redeemed itself when we air-fried French fries. The “fries” function automatically set the machine to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, and the potatoes came out a beautifully, remarkably even golden brown. We were very happy with the final outcome, especially since that was the result of just using a preset. We imagine the results would have been even better if we had first spritzed the fries with oil.

Next up was a sheet cake, which we set out to cook for 20 minutes at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, although it ultimately took a total of 37 minutes because we had to return the cake to the oven a couple of times. Overall, the cake had a pretty consistent color, though it fell in the middle when we did the toothpick test, which required a return to the oven.

Finally, we roasted chicken, which was where the Kalorik air fryer oven fully won us over with its rotisserie spit. We set the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and it took about 50 minutes to cook. The chicken came out crispy on all sides, thanks to the rotating spit. Some of the seasonings got charred, but it looked (and tasted!) like a rotisserie chicken you’d pick up at the store.

It’s important to note that our chicken (just under 5 pounds) barely fit on the rotisserie pit, so be cognizant of the size of the chickens you use.

Pros

• Lots of accessories that let you leverage other cooking skills
• High-end design with its swinging double doors
• Large capacity

Cons

• Product Testing team universally thought the “beep” was a little bit too loud
• Adjustment button makes a loud clicking noise and beep with every notch
• Doors leak air, which can create uneven cooking

FAQ

How do you use the Kalorik Maxx air fryer oven?

The Kalorik Maxx air fryer oven is pretty simple to use. You can set your own preferences or select one of the 21 presets to immediately start cooking.

How do you clean a Kalorik air fryer oven?

We found that the Kalorik air fryer oven required a more involved cleaning process because of all the attachments. We submerged the washable parts in warm, soapy water and wiped the interior and exterior with a wet cloth. Otherwise, cleaning was pretty standard.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our Product Testing Team trialed a wide array of air fryer ovens with elimination-based testing. We narrowed our pool of 10 ovens down through each round of testing until only the top five contenders remained. Each air fryer oven was given a score to assess its performance and unique features. Plus, this isn’t our first rodeo testing small kitchen appliances. To date, our team has reviewed toasters, food processors, single-serve coffee makers and much more. Our goal is to ensure every product we recommend is high quality and worth the price.

I’ve written numerous product reviews and food and lifestyle gift guides, evaluating cooking appliances, cocktail kits and gluten-free cookies to assess what’s best for consumers’ budgets and lifestyles. I’m also just a big fan of finding kitchen gadgets that dramatically improve mealtime.

Where To Buy the Kalorik Maxx

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Kalorik Maxx Digital Air Fryer Oven

Eager to cook a rotisserie chicken? This accessory-rich air fryer toaster oven comes with a spit!

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The Kalorik Maxx is available at a variety of retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair and Macy’s. It retails for around $230.

The post Kalorik Air Fryer Oven Review: We Love This Appliance’s Mix of Handy Accessories appeared first on Taste of Home.

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The best white elephant gifts are memorable and funny, but thiscrab spoon rest is also useful. It sits on the side of a pot or on the counter, and its claws securely stow stirrers, spoons and spatulas. I received mine as a white elephant gift a few years ago, but it’s become my designated sous chef for almost every meal.

The post 31 Best White Elephant Gifts Under $30, According to Our Editors appeared first on Taste of Home.

The challenge, however, is finding the right one. When it comes to realistic Christmas trees, the Frontgate Classic Fraser Fir is officially one of our favorites. This Frontgate Christmas tree is full and fluffy, surpassing our existing faux tree presumptions. But is it worth the splurge? Our expert Product Testing Team tested this stunning tree and discovered everything there is to know about this popular pick.

What is the Frontgate Christmas Tree?

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Frontgate Classic Fraser Fir Christmas Tree

The Frongate Christmas tree looks just like the real dealand there are no pesky light cords lurking inside its fluffy branches.

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As someone who loves the holidays but can’t enjoy a real treedue to my partner’s allergies, I know the importance of realistic-looking Christmas trees. Plastic-y pine needles and wimpy branches simply won’t do, especially for those of us with heavy heirloom ornaments or a mountain of Christmas tree candles.

The Classic Fraser Fir Frontgate Christmas tree is a faux Christmas tree that mimics the classic, home-cut feel of a real one. While the realistic trunk and fluffy branches offer a showstopping look, its gorgeous glowing lights are the real standout feature. It’s also surprisingly stronger than what you’d find in a forest. Each branch tip comes reinforced with heavy-gauge steelno more broken bulbs!

Frontgate Christmas TreeProduct Features

The Frontgate Classic Fraser Fir tree comes in 6.5-, 7.5-, 9- and 10-foot sizes. A powder-coated steel tree stand securely holds the realistic trunk in place without wobbling. The tree comes with either white lights or multicolored lights, which look lovely coupled with prismatic Christmas decor. A handy controller sets a timer or offers a choice between a number of light modes: steady, fade, flash out (twinkle), flash warm white, flash opal and chase.

Unlike many other pre-lit Christmas trees, there are no complicated hookups or tangle-prone wires. Instead, just assemble each section by inserting the pole into the top of the previous section. This automatically connects the lights to one another. Then, plug in the end of the cord, and you’re ready to celebrate!

How We Tested It

We tested this tree in our Product Testing Lab against 10 other options hailing from Balsam Hill, Grandin Road and other well-loved brands.The tree arrived in two slightly beat-up boxes, but we chalk that up to a rough shipping trip. Luckily, none of the contents came damaged or missing. Inside the boxes are the stand, five tree pieces, a storage bag with gloves, lights, fuses, a remote, arm protectors and instructions for setup.

Setup

Setup is a two-person job, especially for larger sizes like the 9-foot option. That said, it assembles rather quickly. Two of our Product Testing team members put together all five sections in roughly 13 minutes. The quick light setup really helps with speed since there’s no need to hunt down connectors hidden inside the branches.

Despite its height, the tree is surprisingly sturdy. The base juts out about 3 feet to ensure a wobble-free trunk, which means that some tree collars may be a bit too small to cover it. Those opting for the 9-foot version will also need a ladder for setup.

Decorating and Fluffing

The tree has brown branch areas, adding to its realism. The trunk is also brown, which looks much more high-end than some of the others we tested. As mentioned above, each branch tip comes with reinforced steel for additional strength. Additionally, there’s no skimping on needlesthe number of tips ranges from 3,000 for the 6.5-foot option to a whopping 8,488 tips for the largest tree. This gives the entire tree a fluffy, full look without any unsightly gaps.

Speaking of fluffing, it only took 16 minutes for it to look really nice. It’s one of the easier trees to set up since the branches are maneuverable. Given that the lights connect via the center pole, there aren’t any light cords in the way. We also noticed very few needles falling out as we fluffed. Despite its fullness, the tree still holds ornaments in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Lights

The light cords and push button feel a little cheap, and the white lights glow a bit cooler than the soft incandescent we’d prefer for a Christmas tree. However, we love the addition of remote-controlled light effects. The lights sit deeper in the branches than the other trees we tested, which gave the entire tree a nice, soft glow. The tree hosts up to 1,700 lights, depending on the size and light color chosen.

Pros

• Holds heavy ornaments
• Trunk and branches look real
• Minimal shedding
• Available in 6.5-, 7.5-, 9- and 10-foot sizes
• Full; no gaps between branches

Cons

• Pricey
• Undertones are very blue

FAQ

Where are Frontgate Christmas trees made?

According to our inquiries to Frontgate’s customer service, the Classic Fraser Fir is manufactured in China. That said, other trees on the website may be manufactured elsewhere.

Are Frontgate Christmas trees worth the money?

While it’s hard to justify a $1,000 price tag, Frontgate Christmas trees are well worth the splurge. If you’re seeking a Christmas tree that lasts season after season and is strong enough to hold heavy heirloom ornaments, we highly recommend the Frontgate Fraser Fir. Despite its fluffiness, there’s still plenty of room underneath to hold gifts for him and her.

Frontgate vs. Balsam Hill

Both Frontgate and Balsam Hill make high-quality Christmas trees and alternative Christmas trees. That said, their product catalogs vary wildly from one another. While we love the fullness and realistic look of the Frontgate Christmas trees we’ve tested, Balsam Hill offers a few smart tree options that appeal to speed decorators or those who prefer to customize their lights.

The Balsam Hill Flip Tree is especially enticing because it sets up in just a few minutes. Instead of manually adjusting the tree’s branches, you can just flip them downeasy!

Whether you choose a Balsam Hill tree or a Frontgate tree, expect stunning quality and realistic details abound.

Why You Should Trust Us

AtTaste of Home, we’re big fans of the holidays. That includes everything from baking Christmas cookies to shopping for the best Christmas gift baskets. Our expert Product Testing team has a combined decade of experience testing and recommending the best products to readers. All testing is done under controlled conditions in our Product Testing Lab.

Where To Buy the Frontgate Christmas Tree

The Frontgate Christmas tree is available for purchase on the Frontgate website.. Snag it for $1,049.25 to $2,924.25, depending on the size. While it’s pricey, we expect this tree to last season after season, making it a true holiday heirloom you can break out every year.

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We Tried It

Frontgate Classic Fraser Fir Christmas Tree

The Frongate Christmas tree looks just like the real dealand there are no pesky light cords lurking inside its fluffy branches.

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The post Frontgate Christmas Tree Review: This Classic Fraser Fir Tree Is Better Than the Real Deal appeared first on Taste of Home.

But, as anyone who’s ever been disappointed by scratchy, patchy greenery knows, not all garland is created equal. I’ve been on the hunt for a mainstay option to decorate my banister, and I just found the perfect pick for Christmas 2024. Yes, it’s pricey. But the pre-lit Balsam Hill Fraser Fir garland is built to last. Here’s my honest review.

What is Balsam Hill garland?

Balsam Hill garland brings the beautiful, lifelike realism of Balsam Hill Christmas trees to other holiday decorating staples. The BH Fraser Fir Foliage we tested is just one of many bountiful options the brand offers for framing doorways and windows or draping on mantels and railings. It’s available in three lengths6, 10 or 18 feetand multiple light options.If you opt for the plug-in lights, you can connect multiple strands together. The garland is also outdoor safe and has UV protection. (Note: Balsam Hill recommends displaying for only three months at a time to ensure the garland stays beautiful for multiple years.)

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We Tried It

BH Fraser Fir Garland

Dress up your space with this stunning Balsam Hill garland. It's the perfect canvas for ribbons, ornaments, pinecones and picks.

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How We Tested It

I’ve been testing the 6-foot Balsam Hill Fraser Fir garland with battery-powered, clear LED lights since September 2024.

Unboxing and Assembly

The garland arrived in a surprisingly small, bare-bones box. It was smushed inside along with instructions and a bulb replacement kit. I’ve tested Balsam Hill products before, and the latter is one of my favorite details. It’s reassuring that when the lights inevitably burn out, I have plenty of backup bulbs and fuses ready to go.

I pulled the garland out and was immediately impressed with the True Needle foliage. While this decoration obviously doesn’t smell like the real deal, it looks pretty close. I loaded the battery compartment with four AAs and got to work.

Set-Up

I love the look of garland. It’s a timeless staple that adds whimsy, color and charm to any number of spaces that would otherwise go undecorated. I already have garlands for my mantel and window frames, but it’s been a struggle to find an option for my awkward, half-banister stairway. The 6-foot Balsam Hill option is a perfect fit. And, thanks to the battery power, I don’t need to worry about outlets or unsightly extension cords.

I grabbed some ribbon and started connecting the garland to the railing and newel post. For the price, it would have been nice if the set came with some extra-long zip ties or other hanging mechanisms, but I made do with what I had.

Once the garland was in place, I started fluffing. Each branch was incredibly malleable and could bend any way I wanted. I would strongly recommend turning the lights on, though, so you can make sure they’re evenly dispersed as you finagle the garland for the perfect fit. After about 15 minutes, I was happy with the outcome.

Lights

The lights on the Balsam Hill garland cast a pretty, warm glow. The battery pack is pretty large, but it comes with a black elastic strap, so you can easily hide it in the foliage. A red light lets you know when the garland is on, and a green, yellow or red light indicates the timer is set. For further customization, you can set the timer for 4 hours on and 20 hours off (green light), 6 hours on and 18 hours off (yellow light) or 8 hours on and 16 hours off (red light).

Value

Thanks to the lights, the garland is quite pretty on its own. But as a “go big or go home” decorator, I find that it’s also an excellent canvas for adding all sorts of accouterments. Depending on your style, you could add pinecones, ornaments, ribbons, floral picks, faux fruit, greenery sprigsthe options are endless. And, considering pre-decorated Balsam Hill garlands like the glitzy Champagne and Crystal or old-money Biltmore Magnolia cost over $250 for 6 feet, you’ll likely save a pretty penny by decorating it yourself. Plus, the simple nature of the Fraser Fir garland allows you to switch it up year over year if you move to a different space or embrace a new holiday style.

There’s no denying that the $149 price tag is pretty steep, but you really do get what you pay for. I’m confident this will be a mainstay in my home for many holiday seasons. In the long run, I’ll likely even save money, as a 6-foot fresh garland runs anywhere from $30-$60, depending on the source.

Pros

• Highly realistic foliage
• Pre-lit with a built-in timer
• Basic evergreen for endless decorating potential
• Easy to fluff and form to your space
• Multiple size options available
• Matches other products (like the BH Fraser Fir tree)

Cons

• Pricey
• Due to battery power, lights are on the dimmer side
• Only a 30-day warranty

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m a holiday gifting and Christmas decorating expert with nearly a decade of editorial experience. My work has been featured in Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest, Better Homes & Gardens and, of course, Taste of Home. To date, I’ve contributed to testing over a dozen artificial Christmas treesincluding the Balsam Hill flip tree, the smart Twinkly tree and King of Christmas trees. I also have experience testing Balsam Hill wreaths, ornaments and ornament storage. An avid holiday enthusiast, my goal is to help our readers find the best products for making merry.

Where To Buy Balsam Hill Garland

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We Tried It

BH Fraser Fir Garland

This lifelife garland brings a timeless elegance to doors, windows, mantels and railings.

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Take holiday decorating to the next level with Balsam Hill Fraser Fir garland. All sizes and light configurations are available exclusively through Balsam Hill. And you can also find select options at Nordstrom and Williams Sonoma. Whether you keep it simple and adorn with some velvet bows or go all out with pinecones, ornaments and picks, it’s sure to be a stunning addition to your decor.

The post Balsam Hill Garland Review: The Perfect Canvas for Custom Holiday Decorating appeared first on Taste of Home.

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$229.99 at Amazon

Sale price: $199.99 | Original price: $329.99 | Savings: 39%

With holiday baking on the horizon, you need tools that get the job done quickly and easily. The KitchenAid Go cordless collection is up for any task, thanks to the included hand mixer, food chopper and mini vacuum. I use all three of these tools in my home kitchen, and I love the versatility they offer. No need to set up next to an outletyou can use these tools anywhere. One interchangeable battery powers each device for up to 60 minutes. Plus, these tools are just as powerful as their corded counterparts.

Pick up the four-piece bundle for just under $200, which is a 39% savings. It also makes a great holiday gift!

The post Prime Big Deal Days Is Here! Save More Than 50% on KitchenAid, HexClad, Keurig and More appeared first on Taste of Home.

This year, you can score up to 80% off kitchen appliances and patio furniture, plus thousands of flash deals on other items. Bonus: shipping is always free, making it the best time of year to stock up on everything for your home.

And to sweeten the deal even further, Wayfair just announced that the sale is getting a surprise extensionsavings now last until October 9 at 11:59 pm PT.

What is Way Day?

Just as Amazon has Prime Day and Target has Circle Week, Wayfair has its own exclusive shopping event: Way Day. This multi-day shopping extravaganza offers exclusive discounts on top of Wayfair’s already low prices. Score up to 80% off nearly every product category. Plus, you don’t need a membership to shop. These deals are available to everyone.

When is Way Day in 2024?

Wayfair typically holds its biggest shopping event in the spring. But this year, we’re getting a repeat just in time for holiday prep. Way Day is back between Saturday, October 5 and Wednesday, October 9. Originally slated to end October 7, Wayfair released a surprise extension to give you two more days to shop (and, we suspect, to compete with Prime Big Deal Days). That means you have five whole days to load up on kitchen items, outdoor essentials, home organization gear and beyond.

The Best Way Day Sales

Not sure what to add to your cart first? We have it on good authority that these products will see significant discounts on Way Day.

Kitchen and Dining

Here at Taste of Home, we’re naturally most excited about stocking our kitchens and updating our dining rooms. On Way Day, we’re seeing slashed prices on the best dining chairs, stainless steel cookware, touchless trash cans and even an editor-tested lift-top coffee table (that doubles as a dining table in small spaces)!

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Upholstered Dining Chairs

This 4-pack of chairs adds a sleek, mid-century style to your dining area. Choose from seven colorways, including terracotta and olive green.

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Stainless Steel Cookware Set

You can cook just about anything with this 12-piece, triple-ply stainless steel set. It includes a stock pot, three saucepans, two skillets, one saute pan and five matching lids.

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Motion Sensor Trash Can

Hands full of raw chicken guts? How about overflowing veggie scraps? This touchless trash can senses your presence for germ-free opening. Genius!

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Lift-Top Extendable Coffee Table

Many small apartments don't have much room for a dining table. Luckily, this editor-tested lift-top coffee table is a triple threat, working as a home office, dining space and coffee table.

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Sofas and Sectionals

Ready to curl up on the best modular sectional for movie night? Or are you already prepping your home for overnight holiday guests? These sofa and sectional deals are worth a second look.

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Upholstered Sleeper Sofa

The classic pull-out couch gets a sleek update with this upholstered design. With just a few tweaks, your daytime sofa easily converts to a double bed. Plus, there's built-in storage for stashing sheets and pillows.

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8-Piece Corduroy Modular Sectional

We love the convenience of a modular sectionalyou can arrange the pieces any which way to fit your space! This corduroy couch, available in eight colors, can fit up to eight people.

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Velvet Convertible Sofa

We can't think of a prettier couch material than velvet. It's soft, supple and easy to wipe clean. This convertible option comes in 10 colors and can be adjusted so it lays completely flat, giving you extra space for overnight guests.

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Rugs

Liven up your space (and protect your floors) with a rug. These stunners come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Plus, they’re available for up to 80% off on Way Day. Stock up on kitchen rugs, runners, area rugs and more.

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Handmade Flatweave Area Rug

Don't spend $1,000 on a handmade wool rug when you can pick one up at Wayfair on major sale. This Moroccan beauty comes in two neutrals and nine sizes.

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Geometric Rug

A textured rug, like this geometric option, adds contrast to your space without cluttering patterns. It's perfect for minimalists!

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Oriental Rug

The options for this lively oriental rug are seemingly endless. Choose from over a dozen colorways and 30+ size and shape configurations for a custom fit.

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Outdoor

Where I live, outdoor season is sadly coming to a close. But that just means now is the perfect time to stock up on gear for next yearat major discounts! We’re seeing sales on everything from gas grills to patio furniture and gardening supplies.

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Blackstone 28-Inch Griddle

Our Test Kitchen pros love Blackstone griddlesand for good reason. It's such a fun way to cook everything from pancakes to fried rice outdoors. This 28-inch option includes a storage shelf and cover.

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Raised Bed Planter Box

If you're already dreaming of your spring garden, pick up a few of these stunning raised bed planters. Four sizes, cedar components and easy assembly will get you growing in no time!

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4-Person Outdoor Seating Set

Stretch out the last few weeks of nice weather with this seating set that includes one loveseat, two armchairs and a coffee tableplus cushions!

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The post Way Day Extended! Take Up to 80% Off Cookware, Rugs and Furniture Now Through 10/9 appeared first on Taste of Home.