DESIGN: PARISIAN CHIC

Hi guys! this is Monika bringing you some decor this Friday! 

This living room designed by The Design Co is one of my favorite spaces of all time and I thought I put a little inspiration to crate a similar look! I love everything about this room, from the comfy, traditional sofas with carved legs to French inspired chairs and a fabulous marble fireplace mantel. The zebra rug adds a bit of an edge and it's a perfect contemporary addition to mix thing up and contrast with the chic Parisian windows frames and classic accessories. The whole is just perfect!

 

1 Wolf and Badger // 2 Domino // 3 One King Lane // 4 Blue Fly // 5 Overstock // 

6 One Kings Lane // 7 Neiman Marcus // 8 Lamp Plus // 9 Horchow // 10 Amara

-post by monika boruch

 

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DESIGN: Feminine Bedroom Decor

Hello dear readers, it's Monika from Style Loves Home here, bringing fresh dose of design! I've been lusting over those bedrooms for a while, I love their "boutique hotel" feel, pink shades, furry accessories and soft lines. They are so feminine and stylish, I would love to decorate my bedroom this way or all least add some of those cute accessories for a girly touch. 

This is what I would suggest if you're looking to give your bedroom a feminine flair!

 

1 Candelabra //2 Zincdoor // 3 Arteriors // 4 Inside avenue // 5 Kathy Kuo Home // 6 Simply curated // 7 Clippings // 8 West elm // 9 H&M //10 H&M

pictures via vintagechicblog / livingpink / bhg

by Monika

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BEAUTY: RED LIPS FOR FALL

Is it too early to think about Fall? Hi, Monica here from Beauty Parler.

My favourite season is around the corner and although many of you might not want to think about Fall it is coming. Fall brings us gorgeous hues of browns, oranges, and reds. The crispness of a cool night, stomping on leaves and drinking lattes. But, my favorite is the look of a red lip. I find that many either love a red lip or hate it. Primarily due to the fact that finding the right shade of red can be difficult. Honestly, I embraced the red lip in my early 30's.

I'd be jealous of my friends that wore a red lip because they always seemed; sophisticated, confident, and sexy. Of which I didn't have the confidence to wear in my 20's. Although I loved shades of deep pinks I couldn't find the right shade of red. I've narrowed down a few of my favorites. Admittedly, hands down my ultimate red lipstick is MAC Dubonnet.  A true classic that has been around since the 1990's.  Have a great weekend!

01 MAC Dubonnet //02 Maybelline Color Sensational Red Revival //03 NARS Fire Down Below //04 Mary Kay Red (Satin)

Do you love a Red Lip? Which are your favorite shades?

-post by monica darosa

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design: decorating your small entryway

The good thing about the entryway, is that no matter how small it is, it's possible to glam it up. A small console can go a long way with great accessories and some killer art. I love absolutely everything about those entryways below from the abstract paintings to the little furry stools and gold details. I think my heart is won by the monochrome one though, which one do you prefer??

images via apartment34 and theinteriorcollective

1 Zincdoor // 2 Etsy // 3 Kathy Kuo home // 4 Target // 5 H&M // 6 Shopcandelabra // 7 Amara // 

8 Botterweg // 9 Net-a-porter // 10 Amazon

-post by Monika

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beauty: How-to-fake it with bronzer

Hope you all are enjoying your Summer! Hi, Monica here from Beauty Parler. You don't need a lecture from a beauty blogger about the dangers of suntanning. By now most of you know that the best way to fake a tan is using a bronzer. However, finding the right bronzer might mean buying a few to find the right shade and finish. Here are a few staples of mine that are just the right shade of brown without looking too muddy or red. A few are meant for more shimmer while others are great as a contour powder.

Which bronzers are your favourites?

MAC Cosmetics Bronzing Powder //  MAKE UP FOREVER Pro Sculpting Duo // Physicians Formula Bronze Booster // Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Bronzer

-post by monica darosa  

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design: brass+mirror bedroom

Brass has been a big trend for a while now in interior design and I have to admit I still love it! But to make it more interesting why not to pair brass with mirrored finishes? I love how they work together in the space, creating a bridge between and old and the new, the vintage and contemporary. Antique brass and mirrors had their big come back and both look great in modern spaces, adding an interesting element and make the room so cozy. 

It's tricky to get it right but it's so worth the risk! I have put together a bedroom with this beautiful mirrored bed, soft textures and brass metallic details, aren't they great together? I hope you like it! xx Monika.

1 Neiman Marcus / 2 Neiman Marcus / 3 Neiman Marcus / 4 Kohls / 5 Nordstrom / 6 Jonathan Adler  / 7 ABC home / 8 One Kings Lane / 9 Wayfair / 10 Burke Decor

-post by Monika

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BEAUTY: SUMMER MAKEUP ROUTINE

Summer is finally here! Monica here from beautyparler with my Summer Routine. Adding a bright shade of lipstick and nail polish keeps the routine easy but adds a punch of color. Here are a few of my makeup favourites.

On days I don't want to wear a "full-face" I prefer a light weight base like a tinted moisturizer. Staying out of the sun rays means faking a tan, a golden bronzer brings out the glow. As for the eyes, I prefer not wearing any eyeshadow and keeping it simple with a black mascara. Now, for color I love bright pink lips and nails. Reminds me of watermelon on a hot Summer day!

base: Clinique Moisture Surge C.C Cream // bronzer: Make Up Forever Pro Bronze Fusion // eyes: Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Mascara // lips: Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lipstick // nails: Essie Nail Polish 

-Monica Da Rosa from Beautyparler.ca

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FOOD: Fresh Blackberry Mint Lemonade

Hi Made By Girl readers!  I feel Summer calling my name, don't you? This is Jen from Pretty Eats with a gorgeous and refreshing Summer drink to sip on, Fresh Blackberry Mint Lemonade. The combination of mint, blackberry, and fresh lemons just says pure Sunshine to me. I love the simplicity of freshly made lemonade, something so simple yet lovely that you can whip up in just a few minutes. If you're feeling festive, go ahead and add a splash of vodka to serve up quick cocktails for the ladies! Either way you pour it, you'll love this fresh variation on lemonade. Cheers!



Fresh Blackberry Mint Lemonade

Ingredients: serves 2

• 4 Meyer lemons, cut in half, reserve a few slices for garnish
• 1/2 c fresh blackberries
• 4 sprigs fresh mint
• 2 tbsp sugar
• Sparkling mineral water, 1 pint

Directions:

• Mint ice cubes: Wash mint sprigs and break into small pieces. Fill ice cube tray with
mint and fill halfway with water. Wait until frozen to add remaining water and freeze
completely.
• Juice lemons and pour through a mesh strainer to remove seeds and pulp.
• In a pitcher, combine juice and sugar. Pour in 1 cup of mineral water and mix together
until sugar is dissolved. You may have to adjust sugar according to the tartness of the
lemons.
• Prepare your glasses by placing 2 mint ice cubes and 1/2 c juice mixture in each glass.
Fill with sparkling mineral water (1 cup, depending on glass size). Garnish with fresh
blackberries, lemon slices, and additional mint sprigs. Enjoy!

-images & post by jen olson

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FASHION: SUMMER STYLE GUIDE

Hi everyone! Sandra from Blasfemmes here. Today’s post is vacation inspired and I’m seriously wishing I had every single item on this list. I'm especially big fan of little white dresses, they're the perfect Summer go-to staple, as fit for a cocktail party as they are for a weekend at the beach.

 What are you craving for Summer? Prints? Whites? Accessories? Do share! 

  Take one: 1. J. Crew Hat // 2. Chanel Parfum // 3. Shopbop Woven Tote // 4. Wonderelle Ice Cream Waffle Glass // 5. Abercrombie Dress (love this one) // 6. Rebecca Minkoff 'Georgina' Sandals Take two: 7. Karen Walker Sunglasses // 8. J Brand Denim Jacket (love this one) // 9. Nars Lipstick // 10. Wonderelle Bouquet // 11. Fujifilm Instax // 12. 'How To Be Parisian Wherever You Are' Book // 13. Mango Dress // 14. Shopbop Beach Tote // 15. Tory Burch Wedges  



-post by sandra lopes


 

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FOOD: NO-CHURN ICE CREAM

Hey there Made By Girl readers! Jen from Pretty Eats here and with summer right around
the corner, I have an incredible recipe for you, No-Churn Ice Cream! Yes that's right. No
ice cream machine needed, no cooking involved! The ingredients are not for the faint of heart
(heavy cream, anyone?), but the results are just beyond creamy and delectable. What I truly
love about this ice cream recipe is being able to make whatever flavors we can think up.

I've provided 3 flavor recipes for you today, Strawberry, Mint Chip, and Rocky Road, but don't
let that stop you from making up your own flavor profiles. Please join me while I mix some of
this No-Churn Ice Cream up and welcome Summer just a little bit early!

No-Churn Ice Cream // Strawberry / Mint Chip / Rocky Road

Ingredients: makes 1 1/2 quarts each
Ice Cream Base :
• 14 oz condensed milk
• 1 pint heavy cream
• pinch of salt
• Cardboard ice cream containers (1 quart size shown here), or other freezable container.

 Flavors :
• Strawberry 1/4 c diced fresh strawberries, 1 tsp vanilla extract, & 1/3 cup strawberry
jam.
• Mint Chip 5 drops peppermint extract, 3 drops green food coloring, & 1/2 c mini
chocolate chips.
• Rocky Road 1/4 c cocoa powder, 1/2 c toffee peanuts, 1/2 cup mini marshmallows, 1/2
cup mini chocolate chips, & 1/4 c chocolate syrup.

Directions:
• In a mixer with the whisk attachment, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form.
• With mixer on low, drizzle in condensed milk, add pinch of salt. Beat until medium stiff
peaks form Use a spatula to scrape the sides and insure all is well combined.
• Proceed with the following directions per flavor:
• Strawberry Add vanilla while whisk is on low. Spoon mixture into freezable containers,
alternating layers of ice cream base with strawberry jam. Top with fresh strawberries.
Freeze for a minimum of 2-3 hours, or until frozen throughout.
• Mint Chip Add peppermint extract and green food coloring while whisk is on low. Mix
in chocolate chips by hand, folding with a spatula. Spoon into freezable containers and
freeze for a minimum of 2-3 hours, or until frozen throughout.
• Rocky Road Add cocoa powder with whisk on low, combine well. Spoon mixture into
freezable containers, alternating layers of ice cream with the peanuts, marshmallows,
chocolate chips, and drizzles of chocolate syrup. Freeze for a minimum of 2-3 hours, or
until frozen throughout.

-post by jen olson

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FASHION: LUX ON A BUDGET

Hi Lovelies! Sami from The Unexpected Type here to talk about keeping your fashion ultra-lux while on a college girl’s budget! Fashion influences the lives of many—who doesn’t want to walk around wearing the latest Dior? I’ll raise my hand to that! Budgets remain to be a questionable issue in the industry to whether it really is the key to true style. Trust me, it’s not!

So many expert fashionistas are mixing high and low, or even going low-end all around to show that true style isn’t in the price of the piece, but how you wear it. As a girl who once struggled on the impending college student budget, I learned a few tricks along the way that will keep you looking like a million bucks under $100 (seriously!)

Go Dainty

Dainty, minimalistic jewelry can get pricey, fast. The trend of simple jewelry started last year and accessorizing with minimal pieces is booming this year. You can find really simple pieces pretty much anywhere for under $5. Forever21 may be lacking in the quality of clothing, but their $3 dainty necklaces and bracelets will make up for that! I get compliments on my minimal pieces from F21 all the time—my priceless secret!

Forever 21 | Triangle Charm Necklace ($3) //  Etsy | Dainty Birthstone Bracelet ($34) // Etsy | Siren Ring Stacked Bands ($40)

Grab a Clutch

All that hardware on your bag can make it look cheap or tacky. The hardware can wear away pretty fast, too, leaving tattered remains of a chain that once was (yikes!) Detach the extra chains and ditch the hardware for a super sleek clutch. You’ll go from “eh” in the accessories department to “Fashion Editor” with a capital F.

Asos | Unlined Soft Leather Flap Over Clutch Bag ($50) // H&M | Suede Clutch Bag ($13) // Etsy | Medium Pebble Black Clutch ($36)

Upgrade Your Denim

I used to be the girl who bought a cheap piece of denim just because my favorite designer pair was getting worn way too many times only one way. Invest in a good pair of jeans! It’ll save you money, since you won’t be buying the cheapo’s every once in awhile. Try buying a pair of boyfriend or skinnies. You can cuff, roll, unroll, and tuck into many different options and lengthen the life of your denim wear.

Old Navy | The Boyfriend Skinny Ankle Jeans ($30) // American Eagle | Extreme Jegging ($50)

// Zara | Skinny Jeans ($70)

Get Monochromatic

All black, all white, all grey, even camel. Opt for one color in cool proportions and textures to create a super cool look everyone will be drooling over. It’s actually fun to put monochromatic looks together—it feels like a challenge! Did I mention how chic this is right now?

Asos | Tailored Sleeveless Boilersuit ($81) // Zara | Sash belt trousers with bow ($60) // H&M | Blouse with Trumpet Sleeves ($30)

Get Creative With Accessories

Your favorite silk scarf just turned into a purse accent Monday-Wednesday and a hairband Thursday and Friday. Reusing your accessories in interesting ways adds a very unexpected touch that will have people waiting to see exactly what you do next. You get more use out of your pieces and still make a style statement!

H&M | Silk Scarf ($30) // Zara | Feather Print Scarf ($20) // Nordstrom | Modal Silk Blend Scarf ($38)

-post by sami davis

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FASHION: EVERYDAY CASUAL GET THE LOOK

Hi everyone! This is Sandra from Blasfemmes bringing you fashion inspiration for the good weather that awaits us.  I am undeniably a Pinterest enthusiast, it is probably my favorite social media outlet because I always find wonderful inspiration there. These are two of my favorite recent pins and I decided to make a post on how to get these looks. What's your favorite social media outlet for fashion inspiration?

1. Suno Eyelet Top // 2. Part Two Striped Blazer // 3. Current/Elliott White Jeans // 4. J. Crew Pavé Link Bracelet // 5. Michael Kors Pink Selma Crossbody Bag // 6. Vans Lo Pro Sneakers Image from Merricksart

1. Forever21 Blue Lace Top & Zara Top// 2. Loeffler Randall Rider Bag // 3. Current/Elliott White Jeans // 4. J. Crew Necklace // 5. J. Crew Pavé Link Bracelet // 6. Salvatore Ferragamo Varina Flats Image from StylishPetite




 -post by sandra lopes 

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BEAUTY: TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Hi, Monica from Beauty Parler! So excited Spring is finally here and the sun is shining. Some of you might be planning Summer vacations already and to get you started on a few travel essentials I've chosen a few favourites. Aside from beauty blogging I also work as a flight attendant and I always carry a few beauty essentials in my carry-on.

One word that is key when traveling by plane is moisturize. From the moment you step on that airplane, the dry air sucks the moisture out of you. Aside from the obvious as drinks lots of water! You need to replenish the moisture loss.

There are many brands of water spray cans, Vichy Thermal Spa Water Spray is one of my favourites. Adds moisture but for me it's the refreshing factor. Right before landing a spritz of water on the face feels cool and awakens.

Facial wipes, disposal and easy to carry. I like the Neutrogena All-In-One Makeup Removing Cleansing Wipes, not only for in-flight but as part of my skincare routine.

Hand cream is a must! I tend to carry more than one as my hands get so dry. The L'Occitane Shea Hand Cream is an old favourite and classic. Creamy and leaves hands so soft. Love the scent too!

I've lost count of how many lip balms are in my uniform pockets. However, Benefit Hydrating Lip Tints are great because they add a hint of colour which in my case is necessary under those horrible lights.

Lastly, not so much for the flight but any skincare that isn't in liquid format for travel is a smart choice. Especially if you're a carry-on only type of gal. With liquid restrictions at airports, the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is an amazing product. It's a gentle powder exfoliate that suds when mixed with water.



-post by Monica Da Rosa

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FOOD: Double Chocolate Pancakes

Hi Made By Girls! This is Jen from Pretty Eats bringing you a fun and decadent way to wake up, Double Chocolate Pancakes.  I love trying to incorporate non-dairy options in my recipes, and experimented with Chocolate Soy Milk with these pancakes…delish!! Now these thick, chocolately treats are really more dessert than breakfast, but once in a while won't hurt. Don't forget my trick to make these cakes even more special, a sprinkle of fresh berries on top! Enjoy!

Double Chocolate Pancakes
Ingredients:  makes 10 medium sized pancakes

    •    1/2  cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    •    1 cup all-purpose flour
    •    1/2 cup sugar
    •    2 tsp baking soda
    •    1/4 tsp salt
    •    1 1/2 cup chocolate soy milk
    •    1 egg
    •    1 tsp vanilla
    •    High quality maple syrup
    •    Fresh berries of your choice

Directions: 
    •    In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add wet ingredients and whisk well. Allow batter to sit for 15 minutes (or refrigerate if longer than 15 min).
    •    On a greased griddle (medium heat), scoop 1/4 cups of the batter onto surface. Flip when bubbles begin to rise to the top.
    •    Stack 'em up, drizzle some syrup, and enjoy with a topping of fresh berries!

-post by jen olson

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BEAUTY: BEAUTY & THE BROWS

 Hi! Monica, here from beautyparler.  Jen, is away enjoying her bundle of joy today! So happy for her & her husband! As a mom to an 18 month old, I know how tiring and exciting those first weeks are.

So, March is here already which means Spring is near. One beauty trend that will continue this Spring is the full brow. In all honesty, regardless of trendy or not I've always been a fan of a fuller brow. Now, not all of us are born with full brows. So, sometimes we just have to FAKE it.  Growing up as a teen in the 90's meant that two brow trends came into effect. For the first part of the 90's full sculpted brows and by the mid to late 90's a thinner brow was in.  My mom warned me, "once you start tweezing those brows they'll never grow back the same or ever".  Mom knows best! Thankfully, I listened.

Weather you use a brow pencil, cream or powder there are countless brow products to choose from and fake it if necessary.  A new release is Maybelline Eye Studio Brow Drama, an easy to use mascara for brows. A great method for those that don't want to fully commit to a full sculpted brow. Looking to fill in sparse brows, a pencil is another easy method. An old favorite of mine, MAC Cosmetics Brow Pencil, is a no nonsense pencil that defines and allows for a more precise brow. For shading in brows, Benefit Cosmetics Brow Zings is a great kit for beginners.

Although, brow powders can be a tad time consuming you can achieve a more natural looking brow. The newest brow product in my kit, Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade is a water-proof cream formula that basically does the job of all three products listed above but in one product. Sculpt, define, shade, and fill-in brows using the dip brow. This product is for those not afraid of a more intense brow. Lastly, Wink Eyelash and Eyebrow Enhancer is for those that over tweezed. Increase and thicken hair with usage of Wink.

What do you think of fuller more natural eyebrows?

-post by monica darosa

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FOOD: AVOCADO TOAST 3 WAYS

Hello, lovelies! Sami from The Unexpected Type here with another super simple recipe that will add instant flavor to your everyday routine! Avocado toast is having a total moment, so I had to see for myself what all the hype was about and make some for myself! I also had a lovely ripe heirloom tomato and some fresh corn I knew would make a flavorful addition. All the hype was totally worth it, avocado toast is simply amazing. Three ingredients, three ways... you'll be craving this snack all week!

Ingredients:

- 2 pieces sourdough toast

- 1 avocado

- Sea salt

- Freshly ground black pepper

- 1 lime

- 1 heirloom tomato

- 1/3 cup fresh corn

1. First, pop your bread into the toaster. Meanwhile, scoop out your avocado into a bowl, add a squeeze of lime, red paper flakes, and mash up with a fork. Spread over your toast and add enough sea salt & pepper to your liking. Version one is done!

2. Wash and dry your heirloom tomato, then slice it. Add to your toast and voila, version two is done!

3. For the final version, add a little bit of olive oil into a skillet and add your corn. Keep it on the heat until it develops a nice char and then top your heirloom avocado toast. Voila, version three! 

Now you have three ways to enjoy your avocado toast! 

-post by sami davis

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fashion: Parisian style

Hi everyone! Sandra from Blasfemmes here. Today’s post is very much alike this post I did a while ago (here) but let’s be honest: who can possibly get tired of Parisian style? What I love the most about Parisian-chic wardrobes are the timeless essentials that every woman should have. Even bigger sizes can’t get it wrong with a classic trench coat, a simple day dress or a striped tee. Below are two look suggestions: a more work appropriate outfit and a girly-girl outfit. More ideas here.

Are you also deeply fascinated by Parisian way of dressing? What are your favorite pieces from this style? Take one: 

1. Céline Sunglasses // 2. Kate Spade Trench Coat // 3. Maje Pussy-Bow Shirt // 4. MadeByGirl  // 5. Stylebystories Earrings // 6. Saint Laurent Bag // 7. Guerlain 'Kiss Kiss' Lipstick // 8. Blank Denim Pants // 9. Wonderelle Peonies Bouquet // 10. Christian Louboutin Décolleté Shoes Take two: 11. Asos Beret // 12. Oasis Scarf // 13. Comme des Garçons Striped Sweater // 14. Parisian Chic: A Style Guide by Ines de la Fressange Book // 15. Alexandra Ferguson Pillow // 16. Topshop Skirt // 17. Charlotte Olympia Kitty Flats // 18. Miss Dior Eau de Parfum



 -post by sandra lopes

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design: STYLISH DETAILS FOR YOUR SPACE

Hi, Monika here with a new fresh portion of design! As you probably imagine, I am constantly looking for new exciting decor ideas, beautiful objects and ways to make an interior looks FAB!!

Making the space stylish is all about the details: a paint color, bed linen, a desk accessory can make a whole big of a difference and add a lot personality to the room! Today, I found few fabulous objects that will help to turn your home office into a beautiful, picture perfect space!

 1 Quadra globe 2 Floral desk lamp 3 Brass sculpture 4 Petrified wood sculpture

5 Clever pencils set 6 Emerald quartz coasters 7 XO Print 

8 Antique brass bookends 9 Eifell Tower 10 Rectangular candlestands

-post by monika boruch

 

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FOOD: Salted Peanut Butter Cups

Oh Made By Girl readers do I have a treat for you! I'm Jen from Pretty Eats and am SO excited to bring you this homemade version of a favorite, Salted Peanut Butter Cups. Creamy, with such deep flavors brought out by a small sprinkle of salt. These cups are so decadent yet simple to make, their store-bought version will pale in comparison.

The key in simple recipes is always high quality ingredients, mainly the bittersweet chocolate used in these treats. Since making these peanut butter cups at home, I seemed to have gained a few admirers (everyone in my house)! Go on, try these for yourself and earn a parade in your honor!

Salted Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients: makes12

• 1 c bittersweet chocolate chips (Ghiradeli used here)
• 3/4 c natural peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• sea salt

Directions:

• In a microwave-safe container, combine chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring in-between, until chocolate is just melted.
• Place mini muffin cups on a cutting board or flat plate.
• Spoon 2 teaspoons of melted chocolate into each cup.
• Pop into freezer for a few minutes, until chocolate is firm.
• Remove cups from freezer. Spoon 1 tablespoon of peanut butter into the center of each cup, taking care not to touch the sides of the paper.
• Spoon 2 teaspoons of melted chocolate around and on top of peanut butter.
• Sprinkle sea salt on top of each cup.
• Place cups back into freezer for a few minutes, until firm, and try not to eat all 12 at once!

Enjoy your weekend!

- Post & photos by Jen Olson

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