Equilibria CBD Review + My Routine

The Cottage Peach is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are our own. Products in this post were gifted.

My introduction to CBD came at the lowest point in my life. I was exhausted and struggling with my arthritis, and every day by three o’clock my stress level had compounded to the point where the tension in my body would not go away. I have always appreciated a balance between incorporating natural remedies and modern medicine to manage my stress and discomfort, but I felt like I had hit a wall and nothing was going to help. Plus, there are so many fake “natural remedies” out there that are just preying on vulnerable people desperate for a cure. I didn’t want to fall into that trap (this is also why my CBD partnership with Equilibria is the only wellness-based company I will partner with, so hopefully that tells you something about how reputable they are)

I had tried CBD before, but it never seemed to work for me. But it took me watching another Instagram creator talking about CBD to decide to give it another try. She talked about how you need to use CBD consistently for at least 30 consecutive days in order to see an effect. In the past, I had tried to use CBD to solve in-the-moment stress and found it lacking.

It is so important when trying something new to educate yourself before making a decision, and one of the main reasons that I gravitated towards the brand this creator was advertising was that they really emphasized the importance of education and provided tons of easy to understand resources about how CBD works in your body to mirror compounds we produce naturally, retraining your nervous system to take better care of itself.

Another thing that was holding me back from really putting my trust in CBD was it seemed too easy - it didn’t make sense to me that we could all just take the same dose no matter our issues or body size and have great results. Part of what Equilibria is doing differently is that they fully support you throughout your CBD discovery journey with their free dosage consultations with experts who custom tailor your routine to fit your life and needs. They taught me that CBD is flexible, and what you need may change from season to season. For example, when I have a flare up of my arthritis symptoms or a stressful time at work filled with deadlines, I know I need to lean on my CBD routine more and increase my dosage. But I can accomplish this in so many different ways, because depending on the form of CBD that I use it may be more fast-acting or long-lasting.

So, let’s start with the basics.

What is CBD?

CBD is a phytocannabinoid found in the hemp plant. But what does this actually mean? Our body produces compounds like CBD naturally in our endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS comprises a vast network of chemical signals and cellular receptors that are densely packed throughout our brains and bodies. The ECS affects our immune system, nervous system and organs.

Here’s what Equilibria has to say about the ECS:

“The primary function of the Endocannabinoid System is to maintain balance throughout your body. Endocannabinoids (neurotransmitters) and cannabinoid receptors are the two essential players in this system.

Stress can contribute to a decline in ECS function, and one approach that may support the healing of this system is to introduce phytocannabinoids like CBD.

CBD is not used to treat underlying medical conditions; instead, it plays a role in supporting the ECS to address imbalances by amplifying your body’s natural balancing and healing properties.

Since the discovery of the ECS in the early nineties, researchers have identified ECS receptors in nearly every area of the body. “

Is CBD legal? Is CBD psychoactive?

CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it does not cause a “high”. That feeling comes primarily from THC which is only found in extremely low quantities in the hemp plant - in fact, the amount of THC is so low that hemp is totally legal in all 50 states. Think of it like a non-alcoholic beer - there may still be a tiny amount of alcohol present, but not enough to intoxicate or require legal regulation.

CBD for discomfort and soreness

One of the worst parts about having arthritis is managing the discomfort that comes with joint inflammation. I have really bad knees, so any kind of bending or kneeling (which we have to do a lot of in the garden!) is difficult for me and causes my joints to start to stiffen. I also get tension and soreness in my neck that can make turning my head difficult.

Now, before you click away because this sounds too good to be true I’ll say this is just my own experience, and it doesn’t always help especially when my discomfort is at a ten, but the first time I used the Relief Balm for my neck soreness, I was shocked. I literally went from not being able to turn my head to the side at all to almost a full range of motion in minutes.

CBD effects

So what does CBD feel like? Honestly, it’s subtle. Within a couple weeks of starting my CBD routine with Equilibria, I was in the middle of an extremely stressful day when I realized something; I could breathe. If you’ve ever experienced stress, you probably know what I mean - but with CBD, it wasn’t that it turned me into a groggy zombie, I just suddenly had the choice to decide what was worth being stressed about instead of having that stress own me. This in itself was life changing.

Difference between full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD

I’ve alluded to the fact that not all CBD is created equal. This is a huge, unregulated industry, and I’d encourage you to be very wary of brands who make bold claims with no data to back them up. This means looking for third party testing data available publicly on their website, and also choosing a full spectrum versus broad spectrum product. Full spectrum CBD includes more than just CBD - it utilizes the entire spectrum of cannabinoids available within the hemp plant to activate something we like to call the “entourage effect”. Other minor cannabinoids work in unison with CBD to help it work more effectively to reach its goal.

From the Equilibria website: “The Entourage Effect put simply, is like having team members. The more hands-on-deck we have to work toward a common goal, the better! When CBD has the other components of the hemp plant there to help it out, its job as team leader becomes a lot more productive.

While Broad Spectrum products do include some of CBD’s teammates, they are missing one key component. And that component is THC. Full Spectrum products, on the other hand, keep THC in the formula. Albeit in teeny tiny amounts (each of our products contains <<0.3% THC, which means it won’t get you high and it’s federally legal).”

My daily CBD routine

My routine is literally the only thing that keeps me going most days. If you live with chronic illness too, you probably know what I mean! If I don't start my day with stretching, journaling and CBD my mind and my body just won't cooperate.

AM:

• Meditate 10-15 minutes - I use the Insight app for this.

• Move my body 15-20 minutes - I usually just pick a YouTube video focused on upper body, lower body or yoga or go for a walk.

• Shower

Breakfast - I try to always incorporate healthy fats into my breakfast because that helps the CBD bind better and work most effectively. Avocado, cheese, dark chocolate, eggs, nuts and chia seeds are all great sources of healthy fat. At the end of my meal I take 1 Extra Strength Soft Gel. This has a slower release than a CBD oil you take sublingually (under the tongue) and lasts longer to get me through the day.

Throughout the day, I’ll use a topical CBD to spot treat sore areas (usually my neck) with Relief Balm (best long term relief) or the Recovery Roll On (best for fast acting relief). If it’s a particularly rough day I may take a Daily Gummy in the afternoon if I start to feel my morning dose wearing off.

PM: If it’s been a stressful day, I like to unwind with CBD Drink Drops. These are an excellent non-alcoholic alternative to a glass of wine and come in a three pack with different flavors. At night before bed I take either 2 CBD Sleep Gummies (these are long lasting if you have trouble staying asleep) or 1 Sleep Melt (Best for helping you to fall asleep)

It’s important to note that I have pretty severe psoriatic arthritis and anxiety. If you’re taking CBD just for stress relief, your needs may be different. That’s why it’s so important to meet with one of Equilibria’s dosage specialists to build a routine specific to your needs.

For best results with CBD, it’s essential to make this a consistent part of your routine and allow at least 30 days to see any changes. So where should you begin?

CBD for beginners

If you’re new to CBD, I’d recommend starting with a monthly subscription to the Relief+ bundle.

This bundle includes the topical relief balm, regular strength daily drops and regular strength daily soft gels. Everything you need to really get a sense of whether or not CBD will work for you. Buying as a bundle unlocks a 25% discount which you can stack with my 15% off code “thecottagepeach”

Pro tip: The only negative I can find with Equilibria is the cost. It can be prohibitively expensive if you don’t take advantage of their promotions, although I do believe it is worth every penny for the mental health benefits alone. Thankfully, just by signing up for their monthly subscription you can save even more, and they make canceling really easy if you decide CBD is not for you. No sketchy recurring fees here!

Adding CBD to my daily routine keeps my stress from overwhelming me, and my discomfort at a minimum. I can’t imagine going without it.

Click here to shop Equilibria CBD and use code “THECOTTAGEPEACH” for 15% off your first order.

Recipe: Homemade Hot Chocolate

The Cottage Peach is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are our own.

There is nothing quite so nostalgic and comforting as curling up for a cozy night by the fire in your wool socks to watch a holiday movie while clutching a mug of warm homemade hot chocolate. With the sun leaving us for the day earlier and earlier each day, finding ways to keep ourselves occupied in the evening hours can be challenging, and so we tend to fall back on the traditions of childhood to keep us awake until bedtime. But this is not a post about my bedtime routine, as much as I would like to lull us all to sleep with that tale! This is a post about the unimpeachable winter drink to top all winter drinks (eggnog lovers cover your ears!) hot chocolate

Now, to be clear I’m not knocking a mug of nutmeg and nog - far from it. But hot chocolate is just on another level. The rich, creamy thick and warm liquid can have as much or as little depth of flavor as you like, depending on the chocolate used. My personal favorite is Mexican hot chocolate. We have a local chocolate company here in Massachusetts called Taza Chocolate that makes a perfectly portioned disk of chocolate with which to make yourself a mug full. At first, the experience is full of uncertainty - are you really supposed to put THIS much chocolate in one serving? But then as the chocolate melts and blends with your chosen milk and alchemy conspires to create the most spectacularly rich and thick molten treat you can imagine. This is not for the faint of heart, so you better love chocolate if you’re going to make your own. A drink this rich coats your mouth with the flavors of fermenting cacao bean, the acidity reminiscent of coffee, and the subtle sweetness of dark chocolate.

If this sounds like an experience you need to try, you can find Taza Chocolate in many health food stores or purchase online, this is not an affiliate link just love supporting local!

Hot chocolate also offers an endless array of options for flavoring and add-ins that are simple but can have a huge impact on the end result.

• Add peppermint to lighten the overall flavor and add a festive touch

• Add cinnamon and salt to bring out the different flavors in the cacao beans

• Add caramel for the comforting sweetness of browned butter and sugar

Toppings are add-ins that compliment your hot chocolate drink, creating a full dessert experience in your mug.

• I’m personally partial to the dandies vegan marshmallows for my hot chocolate garnish, but any marshmallow will do - I think hot chocolate is the only place those hard dried mini marshmallows have a chance to really shine.

• Bump up the sweetness factor with a chocolate covered spoon or caramel dipped rim coated in sea salt.

• Hook a candy cane over the side to keep your mug company and your breath minty.

Can you make hot chocolate with non-dairy milk?

Yes, and I do this myself as I can’t drink cow’s milk. After nearly a decade of trial and error, I can say with certainty that the best non-dairy milk to use when making homemade hot chocolate is without a doubt oat milk, since oat milk is usually richer and mimics whole milk best.

There’s no reason that vegan hot chocolate can’t be just as rich and delicious as hot chocolate made with cow’s milk. Try coconut milk, soy milk and almond milk too and see which one is your favorite.

Sourcing ethical cacao

Whether you decide to make peppermint hot chocolate, dark hot chocolate, caramel hot chocolate or plain I would urge you to consider the origins of your chocolate.

Cocoa and chocolate come from the cacao tree, which thrives in the rainforest.

According to Source Trace, on average cacao farmers earn less than $2 per day, an income much below the poverty line.

As per the latest report on cacao farming, close to two million children in the Ivory Coast and Ghana are engaged in child labor in hazardous conditions.

Also, cacao production is rising at an alarming rate – it has risen by 62% over the last two decades. This is a serious threat to Africa’s forest cover as farmers are choosing to expand their growing operations into rainforests and other patches of land. 40% of the cacao coming from the Ivory Coast can be traced back to being grown in protected lands.

The best way to tell if your cacao is ethically sourced is to buy from companies who share the origin of their cacao and practice fair or direct trade, utilizing third party verification to certify their claims. You should also look for transparency reports available on their website.

What is direct trade?

Currently, there is no industry standard for direct trade in the cacao industry. As one example, Taza created their own direct trade program which they are held accountable for by a third party company. Their program focuses on real relationships (they meet with the farmers whose cacao they are purchasing) quality (they only purchase USDA certified organic cacao) and fair wages.

The main way that direct trade is different from fair trade is that direct trade purchasers typically pay their farmers more than fair trade companies. Direct trade companies may pay a 15%-20% premium to their cacao farmers compared to similar fair trade companies. In exchange for this higher rate, these farmers are expected to produce a high quality, organic product and use production methods that lower the environmental impact of growing cacao trees.

So why should you make your homemade hot chocolate on the stovetop rather than the slow cooker? While I encourage you to utilize whatever cooking methods you need to in order to support your own body’s limitations, I consider the stovetop version to be an easy way to practice some mindfulness in my day. Warming your hot chocolate beverage on the stovetop forces you to pause and be present. Sometimes, coming off of autopilot is the best way to fully appreciate the beauty of winter in all its glory. So, pull up a chair if you need to and truly allow yourself to savor the experience - from the comforting scent of the chocolate to the invigorating scent of mint.

Of course, when you’re finished making my best hot chocolate recipe, the mug you choose to enjoy it in can be equally as important in determining how cozy of an experience you create. I like to put out an enticing array of handmade ceramic mugs for my guests to choose from, alongside a tray with add-ins like marshmallows and candy canes they can add as a garnish to their drink. Make this hot chocolate as the perfect refreshment for your cozy movie night with friends!

What’s the difference between hot chocolate and hot cocoa?

Hot chocolate refers to a decadent dessert drink made with real melted chocolate blended into a liquid, usually milk. Hot cocoa uses cocoa powder dissolved in milk or water and is generally lighter and thinner. While both can be delicious, today I’ll be sharing with you a recipe for homemade Mexican hot chocolate.

What is Mexican chocolate?

According to The Spruce Eats, “The craft of chocolate making can be traced back to 1900 BCE in Mesoamerica and in fact, it appears the way the Aztecs prepared it is similar to how Mexicans do today. The cacao beans are typically fermented, roasted, peeled, and then ground into a paste using either a metate, which is a traditional tool for hand-grinding materials or with a molino, a mill. Sugar is then mixed in and from here, cinnamon is traditionally added…Finally, the chocolate is worked into its final shape, which is most often a disc or log. This rustic presentation works perfectly since Mexican chocolate is still made by hand in many regions.”

How to make homemade chocolate recipe:

This hot chocolate recipe is so easy, and only requires a handful of ingredients. As with most simple recipes, the best way to dress it up is in the quality of the ingredients you choose. While we can all appreciate the nostalgia of the instant hot chocolate packets you can get at any supermarket, this Mexican hot chocolate recipe is a much richer, more decadent treat to warm you all the way through. You’ll just need a saucepan, your milk of choice, and a high quality chocolate like these disks from Taza to get started. From there it’s choose-your-own-adventure to add additional flavors and garnishes.

Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe (modified from recipe by Taza Chocolate)

Yield: 2

Author: The Cottage Peach

Print

Mexican Hot Chocolate

While we can all appreciate the nostalgia of the instant hot chocolate packets you can get at any supermarket, this Mexican hot chocolate recipe is a much richer, more decadent treat to warm you all the way through.

Ingredients

• 2.7oz dark chocolate bar (The Taza chocolate disks are the perfect size)
• 2 cups milk, non-dairy or cow
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Roughly chop or grate the chocolate and set aside.
2. Heat two cups of milk in a small saucepan over medium heat to just below a simmer.
3. Remove the milk from heat and add a pinch of salt.
4. Slowly mix in the chocolate, stirring frequently until dissolved.
5. When the chocolate is dissolved, return the mixture to the stove and re-warm over low heat.
6. While the chocolate is warming, use a whisk or molinillo to froth the chocolate.
7. When the chocolate is hot and frothy, remove from heat and serve.

Recommended Products:

Wood Spoon

Caraway Sauce Pan

Nutrition Facts

Calories

430.78

Fat

24.13

Sat. Fat

13.91

Carbs

42.51

Fiber

4.17

Net carbs

38.34

Sugar

32.97

Protein

10.99

Sodium

121.6

Cholesterol

30.43

All rights reserved The Cottage Peach

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Eco Friendly Gift Ideas

The Cottage Peach is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are our own.

Holiday waste is a huge problem, both for our budgets and the environment. Americans spent around $15.2 billion on unwanted holiday gifts in 2019, and 4% of them ended up in the trash. Think about it - how many trash bags have you probably filled with just wrapping paper in your life? A lot of it can’t be recycled or composted even if we wanted to because it uses shiny plastic coatings or glitter that won’t break down. This is a huge problem that we can easily avoid by simply changing some habits and using fabric or kraft paper wrapping instead. The plus side is fabric wrapping can be reused year after year and kraft paper is totally recyclable and compostable!

That number doesn’t even include all of the wasted packaging and wrapping materials that end up in landfills. Each year Americans alone use 4.6 million pounds of wrapping paper valued at over seven billion dollars. Fifty percent of that wrapping paper ends up in a landfill. That's 2.3 million pounds of used wrapping paper clogging up landfills.

I know I’m not the only one who struggles after the holidays are over to try and absorb all of the generous gifts into our home and our lives. As much as I’m grateful for the thought, and know that I am privileged to be loved by so many people who want to express that love through gifts, it is a challenge when the gifts themselves don’t fit into my life. An eco-friendly gift, however, will always bring me joy and be a useful addition to my home.

For a truly zero waste eco friendly gift idea, consider an experience instead. This can be anything from paint night to skydiving, a museum membership, massage or a baking class. Experience gifts allow you to deepen your bond with the gift recipient and create lasting memories that you can look back on for years to come.

Whether you’re looking for green gifts for your teenager, sustainable gifts for your parents or eco christmas gifts for your spouse, this guide has all the best eco friendly gifts you could need for everyone on your list.

Upgrade their disposable plastic water bottle to a metal water bottle that will last.

Upgrade their disposable plastic water bottle to a metal water bottle that will last.

Did you know roughly 2,480,000 tons of plastic bottles and other containers are tossed out (and not recycled!) every year. Plastic bottles make up a significant portion of this waste. They are also one of the main sources of pollution and pose a serious threat to our environment and the animals we share it with.

A reusable water bottle makes a great sustainable gift you can give to anyone on your list, since we all need to stay hydrated! You could pair this gift with a wellness journal and your favorite playlist for your friend or family member who likes to work out. My favorite water bottles are these black metal reusable bottles from Package Free.

Stock up their pantry with reusable glass food storage containers.

Stock up their pantry with reusable glass food storage containers.

Know someone who just moved into their first home, or is in the process of eliminating plastics in their kitchen? Reusable glass food storage containers are the perfect functional eco friendly gift idea! Make your green gift extra special by filling up those containers with a nice home cooked meal to get their gears turning on what sorts of things they could cook up to store themselves. I like these glass rectangular containers because they stack really well and utilize space in the fridge efficiently, plus they look great.

A zero waste drink kit you can make yourself

In the US alone, people discard 500 million straws every day, or more than 180 billion a year. That’s about 1.4 million kilograms of plastic sent to landfills (and the ocean) every day. Why not make a cocktail or mocktail kit that celebrates sustainability by including reusable straws, a travel tumbler and your favorite drink mix?

Help them carry their haul with ease

Help them carry their haul with ease

Did you know that plastic bags are used for only 20 minutes on average, but take hundreds of years to decompose? In that time, they can poison or kill countless wildlife. Grab some of these open market bags and a membership to a local CSA for a foodie gift that keeps on giving.

Tea is always the answer

Tea is always the answer

‘Paper’ tea bags almost always contain some plastic, and can be full of pesticides, toxins, and dioxins. Epichlorhydrine is the pesticide most often found in tea bags. It’s known to cause cancer in animals exposed to it. So why not introduce your friends and family to the magic of loose leaf tea with a gift mug full of your favorite herbal blends and a metal tea ball?

Make laundry time more pleasant with wool dryer balls

Dryer balls are a better option all around than toxic-rich fabric softener and wasteful, one-time-use dryer sheets. Not only are these products bad for the environment, their contents are also absorbed by your clothing, towels, and bedding, and then transferred to your skin.

Felted wool dryer balls are available here.

Clean up their act with Swedish dishcloths

Clean up their act with Swedish dishcloths

Single use paper towels are not the best option for cleaning up messes because they create a significant waste problem. 254 tons a year in the US, to be specific! One Swedish dishcloth can replace 17 rolls of paper towels.

I use these Package Free Swedish dishcloths, which are made of 70% sustainably forested wood cellulose and 30% organic cotton. They are 100% natural, biodegradable - and they’re much cheaper than paper towels!

Make mealtime more eco-friendly with cloth napkins

Cloth napkins make even a pb&j feel a bit fancy, and they don’t have to cost a fortune to make an impact. Get your family a stack of these cloth napkins along with copies of your favorite recipes and they’ll be set for meal planning too!

Help them reduce their water bill with self care that helps you skip the shower

Help them reduce their water bill with self care that helps you skip the shower

Dry shampoo like this one from Package Free allows you to wash your hair less frequently, lowering water consumption in the shower and allowing you to use less shampoo overall. Spending just 3 minutes less time in the shower can help save over 6 gallons of water. If you buy a dry shampoo, look for one like this that does not come as an aerosol spray. Add this to a self care themed bundle with your favorite essential oils, moisturizer and washable cotton face cloths. Somewhere around 20 million pounds of disposable wipes are thrown away every DAY in the US. Most end up in landfills, and despite claims to the contrary, most are not biodegradable and do not rapidly break down.

Make spring cleaning a breeze with a reusable steam mop and cleaning pads

Swiffer mops are convenient and user-friendly, but have you ever thought about how much trash those single use pads generate? Not to mention the chemicals in the cleaning solutions or the plastic bottles that contain those solutions.

Disposable Swiffer pads are made from polyester, which is derived from fossil fuels, which are, of course, contributing to the degradation of our ecosystems and wildlife.

A great replacement is a steam mop. I find them so much easier to use: just add water and you’re good to go. Steam removes dirt and bacteria, and leaves my floors looking and feeling much cleaner. Plus, every time they clean their floors they will think of you! Click here for the steam mop we use at home.

Keep their food fresh for longer with reusable beeswax wraps.

Keep their food fresh for longer with reusable beeswax wraps.

You can make beeswax wraps at home using fabric, beeswax, resin, and jojoba oil, but in my experience it’s a bit of a messy and time consuming project. Regardless of whether you shop or make, they are great for wrapping sandwiches or snacks and cover bowls. They should last for about a year, and most are compostable. Here’s a link to the beeswax wraps that we use at home.

Is wrapping paper eco-friendly?

There’s no point in negating any positive impact you might see from buying green gifts by wrapping your sustainable gift in traditional wrapping paper. Every year Americans use 4.6 million pounds of wrapping paper. A good bit of that ends up in a landfill. Wrapping paper with glitter, foil, plastic, texture, bows, tape, or sticky tags on it cannot be recycled.

What To Use Instead of Wrapping Paper

It used to be common to use the comics from newspapers, and that’s still a fun option. Any part of the newspaper will do, really.

Save the brown paper that comes in the cardboard boxes shipped to your house. Everyone loves a brown paper package tied up with string! Brown shopping bags are also perfect for this look.

Sheet music, book pages, posters, and magazines can all make pretty wrapping.

Using fabric as wrapping is a fun option.

A pretty tin is a great way to package a present. You can often find them at thrift stores.

If you do use disposable wrapping paper, be sure it’s paper only. Use paper bows and tape and don’t forget to recycle!

Mason Jar Gift Ideas

The Cottage Peach is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are our own.

Mason jars can serve so many purposes. They’re the perfect blank slate for food, crafting, and gifts. Below you’ll find mason jar ideas for Christmas, Chanukah, birthday, or just-because gifts.

The History of the Mason Jar

Back when Mason jars were invented, they were made from a transparent, aqua glass. You can still find aqua mason jars at yard sales and antique stores. Because of their age, it’s probably best not to use them for canning, but they have lots of other uses. I like to use them as vases and oil lamps, or to hold dry food or craft supplies.

John Mason, who invented the jars in 1858, didn’t get a patent on the rubber ring he used to seal them until 10 years later, by which time lots of people were producing mason jars. In 1880, five brothers began producing them under the name of Ball Brothers Manufacturing. The rest, as they say, is history.

Antique Ball jars were made in a variety of colors and shapes, some of which are very valuable to collectors today.

As more and more jars became available, the American diet changed pretty dramatically, as people could eat canned fruits and vegetables year-round. Canning as an activity goes through periods of boom and bust, but Ball jars themselves are never out of style. They are a timeless staple.

Mason jars are made of tempered glass, making them not indestructible, but quite durable, which is why so many very old jars are easily found. While the antiques have their own charm, newer mason jars retain the mix of simplicity and usefulness that made the jars the instant hit they were.

At our house, we use antique Ball, Kerr, and Atlas mason jars as drinking glasses, fill them with leftover soup, arrange pretty things in them, and do lots and lots of canning.

DIY Mason Jar Gifts

Whether you want to craft a mason jar gift or create the perfect mason jar food gift, there are truly endless possibilities. Here are a few ideas to inspire your own creations.

Spa Mason Jar Gift

I recommend using a wide mouth canning jar for this gift, to better fit some fun and pretty self-care products.

These shampoo and conditioner bars from the Package Free shop would make a great foundation in the bottom of the jar. As would this Cocoa Butter Lotion Bar, also from Package Free. Add a refreshing peppermint lip balm, non-toxic nail polish and some reusable cotton face rounds for a DIY spa gift in a jar that will make a gift everyone can enjoy!

To top off your spa mason jar gift, consider using a natural loofah sponge on top of the lid.

Love Notes Mason Jar Gift

It is indeed the thought that counts. Come up with as many things as you can – big and small – that you love about your gift recipient, write them down, and stuff that mason jar tight. You could use handmade recycled paper, cut out into fun shapes, or even take it one step further with seed paper they can plant later for a garden gift that keeps on giving.

Snow Globe Mason Jar Gift

Here’s what you’ll need to make a dry mason jar snow globe:

• Pint-sized mason jar and lid

• Winter miniatures such as pinecones, repurposed old wooden ornaments, trees, snow-people, or other figurines

• Non-toxic glue

• Ribbon

Instructions:

• Glue your collected miniatures to the inside of the mason jar lid. Once dry, screw your lid onto your mason jar. Turn the mason jar upside down and embellish the ring of the lid with your ribbon of choice.

Terrarium Mason Jar Gift

You can make a terrarium with a mason jar in its regular standing position, but I think the upside-down look is more interesting.

What you need to make a mason jar terrarium:

• Mason jar

• Moss

• Very small plants (When purchasing plants, bring a mason jar lid with you to help in choosing the right size.)

• Spray bottle with water

• Optional additions are pebbles, acorns, tiny pine cones, shells, or other small materials found in nature

Instructions:

• Wash your jar thoroughly and be sure to rinse it very well.

• Remove your plant very carefully from its pot and moisten the soil with your spray bottle to prepare it for planting in the mason jar lid.

• Compact the plant’s root ball with your hand. You may need to remove some soil. Your goal is to be sure it will fit on the inside of your mason jar lid and that all the roots will be covered in soil.

• Place the plant on the inside of the lid. The soil should not overflow, and there should be a tiny bit of space around it for other materials.

• Press moss around the edges of the soil, filling the space to the edge of the rim.

• Add pebbles, an acorn, tiny pine cones, or shells if desired.

• Now comes the hard part – placing the jar over the plants. Use one hand to hold the plant upright and guide the branches into the jar. With the other hand, lower the jar over the plant.

• You can just place the jar on top of the lid, but if you’re a bit more daring, you can try to turn the jar onto the lid’s threads. This would make it easier to move around, but if you don’t screw it in you can just hold the lid and jar separately when moving the terrarium, and it will be a bit easier to lift the jar when the soil needs moistening.

• Include a small card with these care instructions with your terrarium gift: “Terrariums do best with bright but indirect light, so they shouldn’t be kept in direct sun. The soil should be checked every few weeks, and should be kept moist, but not wet.”

Sugar Scrub Mason Jar Gift

Mix up a batch of your favorite sugar scrub and fill a mason jar with it! My personal favorite recipe is this Lavender Oat Scrub.

Candle Mason Jar Gift

Who doesn’t want a warm and cozy candle to keep them company through the long winter months? This is more of an advanced gift in a jar project since it requires a fair amount of supplies, but once you have everything you need it’s a fun weekend project that will leave your home smelling amazing! Choose a natural soy wax and phthalate free scents for a non-toxic gift.

Mason Jar Recipe Gifts

Soup in a mason jar

There are tons of incredible recipes for ready to cook soups you can serve your friends and family in the form of a mason jar food gift. Personally, I think an edible gift is one of the best kinds of gifts since it is zero waste and creates a personal experience for the recipient. Layering your ingredients creates an appealing visual effect that is sure to impress! Just be sure to include a tag (either printed or handwritten is fine!) attached to your gift with cooking instructions.

Cookies in a mason jar

If there’s anything better than soup in a mason jar, it’s cookies in a mason jar! The same guidelines apply here. You’ll want to find a recipe that is specifically made to fit inside of a mason jar so the ratios are correct. These mason jar food gift recipes only include the dry ingredients, so the recipient will just need to add whatever milk, eggs, butter or other perishable ingredients can’t be included in the recipe.

Wrapping Your Mason Jar Gifts

You can package your mason jar gift in a reusable gift bag, but here are some prettier options if you feel like getting creative:

Burlap:

Use a Burlap Ribbon to tie a simple bow around the mason jar, or use it to create a sleeve by securing a length of it around the jar with glue.

Tissue paper:

Place your jar on top of a piece of tissue paper, right in the center.

Bring the 4 corners of the tissue paper together above the jar, then gather the excess tissue paper in towards the jar and up.

Use ribbon or raffia to tie the tissue paper to the space between the jar and the lid.

Fabric:

Fabric can be used in just the way I described using tissue paper above, or can be used in the most classic of mason jar decorating methods by covering or replacing the flat part of the lid, underneath the lid’s ring.

To accomplish this, use pinking shears to cut a piece of fabric into a 5 ½ “ square.

Remove the ring from your mason jar, lay the fabric over the lid, and then twist your ring back onto the jar over the fabric. If you’d like to add a bit of dimension, simply place a bit of batting between the lid and the fabric before you secure it.

You can embellish this with a bow tied just below the ring of the lid.

Raffia:

Raffia and mason jars are made for each other. I like to wrap it around multiple times before tying it off.

Ribbon:

Natural, plastic-free ribbons are a great alternative. Use any ribbon or jute twine you like to secure a sprig of evergreen branches to the outside of the jar for a timeless gift accessory.

Vegan stuffed butternut squash recipe

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Why Eat Butternut Squash?

Many varieties of squash have been eaten for thousands of years, but butternut squash didn’t make it to grocery stores until the 1940’s.  Since that time, it has become a staple of the American diet and a traditional Thanksgiving food.

Known as butternut pumpkin in Australia and New Zealand, butternut squash can be used to substitute for pumpkin when baking a pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread.

Butternut squash is a really versatile ingredient. It can be roasted, stuffed, boiled, sautéed, mashed, or twice baked, and it’s delicious in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re making pumpkin pie or beef stew, the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut is always a welcome addition.

Butternut is not a stringy squash, which makes it useful for recipes that require a pureed squash, such as lasagna.

Is Butternut Squash Healthy?

Yes! Butternut squash is a low-calorie source of vitamin A, potassium, vitamin C, fiber, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, thiamin, niacin, folate, and manganese. 

It aids in digestion, and is beneficial to our blood pressure, skin, and hair, among other things.

Is Butternut Squash a Vegetable?

Butternut squash is one of those fruits we call, and treat as, a vegetable. So while botanically speaking it is a fruit, in common usage it’s fine to refer to it as a vegetable.

How to Choose a Butternut Squash

The best time to buy butternut squash is from September to November, as it will be freshly harvested. If possible, visit your local farmer, but if that’s not an option for you, butternut squash is readily available in grocery stores.

Butternut squash is peanut shaped, with beige skin and an orange interior. 

When choosing a butternut squash, pick one that is heavy for its size and feels firm. Be sure it has a smooth, hard skin without any bruises or blemishes. The skin should not be easy to scrape with a fingernail.

The stem of the butternut squash should be dry and tan. If it’s not, it was picked too early and the flavor will be lacking.

If you’re buying butternut squash to use in a pumpkin pie recipe, keep in mind that one pound of butternut will yield about two cups of squash.

Pre-cut butternut squash is more expensive than buying a whole, un-cut butternut, but some people don’t have time, or are intimidated by the thought of peeling and chopping the squash themselves. While butternut squash is a bit trickier to peel, solely because of its shape, it is easy to get the hang of, and there are ways to make it an easier process.

How to Peel a Butternut Squash

There are three basic ways to peel a butternut squash.

Peeling a whole butternut squash

The first way is simply to use a sharp chef’s knife or peeler to remove the skin. To do so, cut off the bottom of the squash so it can sit flatly on your cutting board.

If you think the curve in the squash is going to cause you trouble, you can cut the neck from the curve and peel them separately.

If using a knife, hold the squash against the cutting board with one hand, and with the other slide the knife from the top to the bottom. You may remove a bit of butternut meat this way, but not so much as to be a problem. And the more you practice, the less you will lose.

Using a peeler is self-explanatory, I think! You may have better luck using shorter strokes than you would for a potato.

Microwaving a whole butternut squash for peeling

Microwaving a whole butternut squash can make it easier to peel. 

To microwave butternut squash, first cut off the ends of the squash, then either make slits with a knife or poke it all over with a fork. This will allow steam to escape, which is important if you don’t want a messy explosion in your microwave.

Set the microwave for 3-5 minutes.

Let the squash sit for a minute or two to cool off a bit, then pull the skin away with a knife or your hands.

Boiling a whole butternut squash for peeling

To boil a whole butternut squash for peeling, put your squash in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, until you can pull the peel away from the squash.

Can You Eat Butternut Squash Skin or Seeds?

All parts of a butternut squash are edible. The seeds can be eaten raw or roasted as you would pumpkin seeds. The skin is rich in vitamins and fiber.

Butternut skin can be a bit tough depending on how you cook it. The skin of a slow-cooked squash will be soft, but on a roasted squash it can become unappetizing.

The skin of butternut squash can also be a little bitter, but if prepared well, by slow-cooking and seasoning it, it will taste very similar to the squash itself.

If you peel your butternut squash, you can bake the peelings with olive oil and seasonings for a butternut chip.

How to Cut a Butternut Squash

Once you have peeled your squash, place the cut, bottom edge on your cutting board and slice the squash in half lengthwise.

Use a metal spoon to scrape the seeds and any strings from the center of the squash.

You can then chop it to your desired size. Larger pieces will take longer to cook, of course. The important thing is that the pieces are consistent in size, so they will cook evenly.

How to Roast Butternut Squash

Roasting butternut squash will give it a much richer flavor than boiling it would.

To roast a butternut squash, you do not need to peel it. Simply cut it in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and place the two halves of the squash on a cookie sheet.

If you want to add flavorings (brown sugar, butter, and a bit of vanilla is a favorite around here) put the squash cut-side up and fill the cup where the seeds were.

If you are roasting your butternut to puree or for the baked stuffed squash recipe below, place the cut sides down.

How to Store Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is harvested in the fall, but you can keep it throughout the winter very simply, or prep it to use in a few days' time.

Storing uncooked, peeled butternut squash:

If you’d like to prep your squash a few days before cooking with it, it will keep for 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storing whole butternut squash in a cool, dark spot:

• The skin on butternut squash is fairly thick, which allows us to store it without refrigeration. Butternut squash stores best in a dark, dry place that’s about 50 degrees.

• It can keep for months. To prolong that period, do not store them with any other fruits, as some fruits emit ethylene gas, which can cause rot.

• Check your squash periodically to be sure no bruises or blemishes have appeared, and that the squash is still firm.

Freezing butternut squash: 

• Butternut squash can be frozen raw or cooked.

• Freezing raw butternut squash:

• While you can freeze it whole, it will be much easier to use with a bit of preparation before freezing.

• Peel your butternut squash and remove the seeds. You can freeze the peeled halves, or chop your butternut into cubes. If you cut it into cubes, lay them on a cookie sheet in the freezer for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe, airtight container.

Freezing cooked butternut squash:

The best way to freeze cooked squash is to puree it first. Put your cooled puree in a freezer-safe, airtight container. Let the squash thaw in the refrigerator before using it.

Recipe: Vegetarian Baked Stuffed Squash

Yield: 4

Author: The Cottage Peach

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Vegan Stuffed Butternut Squash

This stuffed butternut squash is a great plant-based entrée for your thanksgiving meal. Inspired by the stuffed squash recipe by Minimalist Baker

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 1 H & 5 MTotal time: 1 H & 20 M

Ingredients

Filling

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 package Beyond Beef
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup cup sun dried tomatoes
• 2 cups loosely packed chopped swiss chard
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped pumpkin seeds (optional)

Squash

• 1 large butternut squash, halved lengthwise, seeds removed
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 healthy pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400F degrees
2. Line your dutch oven with parchment paper
3. Cut your butternut squash in half lengthwise.
4. Remove the seeds with a sharp edged spoon or melon baller. Brush the squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon (optional), and salt. Place cut-side down in your Dutch oven.
5. Bake squash for 15 minutes, then flip the squash over to cut-side up. Bake for another 30-45 minutes (sometimes more depending on the size of your squash), or until a knife easily pierces the thickest part of the squash.
6. Sauté your cooked quinoa over medium heat to crisp and brown. Add half of the soy sauce. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
7. To the still hot skillet add the beyond beef and the other half of the soy sauce. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until browned. Then add garlic, sun dried tomatoes, swiss chard and pumpkin seeds(optional) and sauté for another 1-2 minutes or until chard is just wilted. Add quinoa back to the pan and toss to coat. Set aside.
8. Once your squash is roasted, place cut-side up in the Dutch oven and fill to the brim with quinoa filling. Then place back in the oven to roast for another 5 minutes.
9. Top with optional chives/green onion and balsamic glaze.
10. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for 4-5 days. Reheat in a 350F oven until hot.

Recommended Products:

Wood cutting board

Shun 8

Caraway Dutch Oven

Nutrition Facts

Calories

306.52

Fat

12.39

Sat. Fat

1.86

Carbs

46.03

Fiber

7.09

Net carbs

38.95

Sugar

14.37

Protein

8.56

Sodium

312.29

Cholesterol

0.18

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Recipe: Mulled Apple Cider

The Cottage Peach is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are our own. Products in this post were gifted.

Apple picking in our family often ends with us clutching blazing hot to-go cups of apple cider in an attempt to warm our numb fingertips while we sit between the apple trees, burning our tongues on the first sips impatiently taken before our mugs have a chance to cool. The bees are drawn to the sweet smell surrounding us and we listen to their buzzing song as we watch the people around us climb atop each other’s shoulders to reach the best apples at the very top of the tree.

As the days of apple-picking fade away, local farm stands are still stocking their shelves with the rich taste of fall in the form of fresh pressed apple cider waiting to be transformed into a hot mulled cider beverage made for fall days. November is a time to begin intentionally seeking connection with family and friends, and oftentimes that connection comes over the stovetop, making mulled cider together as the warm scent of apples fills your home.

How is apple cider different from apple juice?

According to Southern Living, “Apple cider is fresh, unfiltered, and often unpasteurized. It's also considered a seasonal drink and can be hard to find outside of the autumn months. Apple juice, on the other hand, is filtered and pasteurized, which gives it a longer shelf life, a sweeter taste, and a smoother texture.” so, it’s safe to say that apple cider is NOT the same as apple juice.

To me, there is no comparison between apple cider and apple juice. Apple juice is, at best, the bland counterpart of the richly flavored and fresh apple cider. I almost never keep apple juice in our refrigerator, but if apple cider were available year round I can almost guarantee a jug or two would find its way into my cart each time that I shop.

The taste of apple cider is much fuller and richer than apple juice. Apple cider tastes just like eating a whole apple, with a bit of extra tanginess from the oxidation process.

Why is apple cider brown?

Apple cider is brown because of enzymatic (polyphenol oxidase) reactions that occur in the presence of oxygen. Tiny apple solids floating in the juice turn color when exposed to air, giving cider that gorgeous caramel color and opaque look. Just like an apple begins to brown once it is cut, cider turns brown as the apples are pressed in the apple presser and are exposed to oxygen. This reaction also contributes to the depth of flavor that is present in apple cider.

On a related note, if you are slicing apples for a garnish tray to serve beside your mulled cider and need to keep them from browning before your guests have a chance to dig in all you need to do to keep your apples from turning brown is to soak the cut fruit in a saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of kosher salt per cup of water) for 10 minutes, then drain and store until ready to use. I promise you can’t taste any lingering saltwater flavor at all!

How is apple cider made?

Traditionally, apple cider is made at your local orchard by pressing fresh apples in an apple press, which crushes the apples into a mash or pulp. There are a variety of different styles of apple presses, from small countertop units you can operate by hand to professional grade equipment used by larger operations.

Can you make apple cider at home?

Yes! Many people use their countertop juicing appliance to make fresh apple cider at home. Since the resulting product is unfiltered and unpasteurized, it is considered cider even though you are using a juicer to make it. If you don’t have a juicer, you can throw your chopped apples in a blender and then strain out the pulp using cheesecloth. To make hot apple cider just transfer the strained cider to a sauce pan and heat on medium low until warm.

Why should you buy local cider?

The reasons to purchase your apple cider from a local farm are endless. Your local farm will almost certainly carry apple cider in the fall, whether they have an orchard and press of their own or partner with another local farm that may be further afield. Farms rely on seasonal income from fall activities like hayrides and corn mazes to keep themselves afloat during the winter months when their income is severely reduced or eliminated completely, so supporting your local farm all the way up until their closing date by purchasing any items for your fall activities from them can be a great help. When we buy local produce and groceries, we can be certain that the products on the shelves are as fresh as can be and generally of a much higher quality than is available in the supermarket.

Mulled cider spices

My favorite thing to do with my local apple cider is to make a big pot of hot mulled cider on the stovetop. This not only results in a delicious drink to gather around and share with all of your friends and family, but fills the space with a warm and cozy aroma.

When I’m feeling too achy and fatigued to participate in more involved fall traditions and cooking, mulling cider is a mostly hands-off way I can celebrate the autumn season without draining myself of my limited energy. Since I’m always looking for ways to enjoy seasonal living while being mindful of my own limitations living with chronic illness, mulled apple cider is the perfect way to respect my capabilities.

Hot mulled apple cider is special, because we only get to enjoy it for a small window of time each season. Let this be a drink that opens the door to celebrating seasonal living this fall in your home. This scent experience can be enhanced by incorporating different combinations of spices and fruits into your spiced cider recipe. This is a case where more is definitely more, so don’t feel the need to hold back in creating your flavor combinations.

Some spices and fruits to consider using in your hot mulled cider beverage:

• Whole cloves

• Cinnamon sticks

• Allspice berries

• Fresh ginger

• Star anise

• Allspice

• Nutmeg

• Cardamom pods

• Coriander

• Oranges

• Lemon

• Cranberries

• Apples

So why should you make mulled cider on the stovetop rather than the slow cooker? While I encourage you to utilize whatever cooking methods you need to in order to support your own body’s limitations, I consider the stovetop version to be an easy way to practice some mindfulness in my day. Simmering your hot apple cider on the stovetop forces you to pause and be present. Sometimes, coming off of autopilot is the best way to fully appreciate the brief beauty of fall in all its glory before it is time to move on to our long winter. So, pull up a chair if you need to, chop your fruits at the table while sitting down and truly allow yourself to savor the experience - from the fresh scent of citrus as your knife cuts into the rind, to the crunch of apples slicing.

Of course, when you’re finished making my best mulled cider recipe, the mug you choose to enjoy it in can be equally as important in determining how cozy of an experience you create. I like to put out an array of handmade ceramic mugs for my guests to choose from, alongside a tray with additional fruits they can add as a garnish to their drink. Make this mulled cider as the perfect refreshment for your Thanksgiving gatherings!

What does “mulled” mean?

To mull cider means to heat, sweeten, and flavor with spices for drinking. You can also mull ale, and wine. Changing the temperature of your beverage and adding spices increases the depth and complexity of flavor, as well as adding a warming element to bring coziness to your gathering.

How long does mulled cider keep?

You can cool and refrigerate your mulled cider for up to 3 days to be reheated another time. You should not keep it in a sealed bottle - since apple cider is usually not pasteurized it may ferment and cause the bottle to explode.

How to make mulled cider

non-alcoholic, hot cider, mulled drink, fall beverage

Drink

Yield: 16

Author: The Cottage Peach

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Hot Mulled Apple Cider Recipe

To make hot mulled apple cider, all you need to do is add your apple cider and chosen spices and fruits to a large pot on your stove and simmer to allow the flavors to combine. Then you can pour into your favorite mug alongside some fruit to garnish and enjoy!

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 1 HourTotal time: 1 H & 10 M

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 Apples, sliced
• 1 Orange, sliced
• ½ Cup cranberries (fresh or frozen is fine)
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 8 whole cloves
• 8 whole cardamom pods

Supplies

• Large dutch oven or soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Measure out your spices into the bottom of the Dutch oven and toast them on low for one minute to bring out the flavors, being careful not to burn.
2. Slice the orange and apples.
3. Add the fruit and apple cider to the Dutch oven and bring to a simmer. You don’t want to turn the heat too high as it may cause the cider to separate (this won’t affect the taste just the appearance)
4. Cider can be mulled at a low temperature for up to 4 hours or at a simmer for about 1 hour, depending on your preference.
5. Ladle into festive glasses or mugs and enjoy with fruit and cinnamon sticks to garnish!

Recommended Products:

Wood cutting board

Shun 8

Wood Spoon

Caraway Dutch Oven

Nutrition Facts

Calories

178.7

Fat

1.16

Sat. Fat

0.34

Carbs

39.58

Fiber

2.11

Net carbs

37.45

Sugar

32.13

Protein

3.66

Sodium

21.68

Cholesterol

9.18

All rights reserved The Cottage Peach

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Tag @thecottagepeach on instagram and hashtag it # cottagepeachrecipes