Ingredients

• 1 jar (7-1/2 ounces) marshmallow creme
• 2/3 cup instant hot cocoa mix (about 4 packets)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
• Assorted cookies, crackers and pretzels

Ingredients

• 1 (7-1/2 ounce) sheet refrigerated pie crust
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 6 cups chopped peeled apples (Granny Smith)
• 1 can (17-1/2 ounces) large refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing

Ingredients

• 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling
• 2 cans (17-1/2 ounces each) large refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing, chopped
• Confectioners' sugar, optional

If you’ve beendebating whether to spend money onKing of Christmas or Balsam Hill, these low prices may decide for you. And if you’re not in the market for a new tree, there are still plenty of holiday picks on deep discount. Perhaps a new ornament storage box or a stocking holder will make spirits bright. Here’s everything you need to know about this flash sale.

What is the Balsam Hill Black Friday sale?

If you’re pining (get it?) to upgrade your old, dusty artificial tree, now is the time. Today only, customers save up to 50% on the Balsam Hill website. Sale items include both lit and unlit artificial Christmas treesand decor. Additionally, shoppers receive free shipping on any order made before the sale ends. Pick up a Balsam Hill wreath or Balsam Hill garland to zhuzh up your holiday decorboth of our favorite options are available at a deep discount!

The Best Balsam Hill Trees on Sale

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Best Smart Tree

BH Fraser Fir Tree with Twinkly Light Show

If your a colored lights lover, don't sleep on the Balsam Hill Twinkly tree. The 7.5-foot option is on sale for $1199, which saves you $700!

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In our Balsam Hill smart tree review, wediscuss this charmingFraser Fir and its capabilities. Choose the Twinkly light option, which is compatible with a user-friendly app. The smart Christmas tree comes with five preset light functions that the included control box turns on. The functions are Rainbow, Snow, UpDown, Fireworks and Glow. You can also display countless more effects on your tree with help from the app. It’s well worth the full priceand now you can snag the 7.5-foot version for $700 off!

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Best Flip Tree

BH Balsam Fir Flip Tree

Ready, set, flip! If easy setup is a must, the Balsam Hill flip tree makes decorating prep a breeze. Bring home a 6.5-foot flip tree with clear lights for $999and save $400 in the process!

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We’ve covered the benefits of this Balsam Fir in our flip tree review, but for those who haven’t heard, this Balsam Fir flip tree offers just about the easiest setup possible. The tree smartly sits on caster wheels and effortlessly rolls into place. Then, to set it up, all you need to do is press the foot pedal, pull the tree stem toward you and voila! Gravity does the rest. No struggle, no fuss, just fluff and go. If you’ve been on the fence, now is the time to grab a 6.5-foot flip tree at a whopping $400 discount.

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Most Realistic

Classic Blue Spruce

Go back to the basics with a realistic Blue Spruce. The 6.5-foot tree with clear lights is on sale for just $349; that's a 50% savings!

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Not all Balsam Hill trees have excessive bells and whistles. For those seeking a tried and true classic, this Blue Spruce brings buckets of merriment to any holiday celebration. We love it so much that it even earned a place as the most realistic option we’ve tested! If you looked up Christmas tree in the dictionary, theres a chance youd find an image of the Balsam Hill Classic Blue Spruce. And now, you can score this 6.5-foot cheery tree at a 50% markdown!

How We Tested Balsam Hill

To find the best Balsam Hill Christmas trees, we spent countless hours researching and reading reviews. We evaluated specs, light options, shape and branch structure. We then called in three of our front-runners for thorough, in-person testing, split between our Milwaukee studio and editors homes. Our testing involved timing setup and fluffing, hanging ornaments of different weights, measuring and packing the tree away. We also read up on the brands trusty warrantyand even contacted customer service for troubleshooting support.

Then, to see what else the brand has to offer, we called in a garland, wreath, ornament set and ornament storage option. Just like the trees, we were impressed by the quality and realism. Across the board, we find Balsam Hill products live up to the hype.

How to Shop the Balsam Hill Cyber Monday Sale

Visit the Balsam Hill website to shop the Cyber Monday deals. As a reminder, the sale runs December 2 and only lasts while products are in stock.

Today only, get an extra $50 off orders over $350 using code CYBERSLEIGH.

Through December 31, you can save even more with promo codes, depending on how much you spend:

• $15 off $350: Use codeBALSAMHILL15
• $20 off $500: Use codeBALSAMHILL20
• $25 off $600: Use codeBALSAM25OFF
• $30 off $730: Use codeBALSAMHILL30
• $40 off $1100: Use codeBALSAMHILL40
• $50 off $1500: Use code50BALSAMHILL
• $90 off $2100: Use codeBALSAMHILL90

The post The Balsam Hill Cyber Monday Sale Is Your Excuse to Get a Lifelike Christmas Tree for Less appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 1-1/2 ounces peppermint vodka
• 1-1/2 ounces coffee liqueur
• 1 ounce brewed espresso
• 1 ounce half-and-half cream
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 8 ounces white baking chips
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Whipped cream and white chocolate curls

Ingredients

• 1-3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• CHEESCAKE FILLING:
• 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• TOPPING:
• 1-1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

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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We Tried It

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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We Tried It

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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$599 at Amazon

We Tried It

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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$599 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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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.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup water
• 1-1/2 cups sugar, divided
• 1 package (12 ounces) fresh cranberries (about 3-1/2 cups)

Ingredients

• 3 maraschino cherries with stems, divided
• Ice cubes
• 1 ounce grenadine syrup
• 8 ounces chilled ginger ale

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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.

Ingredients

• 1 pound uncooked fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup half-and-half cream
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• Grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper, for serving

Ingredients

• 12 bacon strips
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups buttermilk or 2% milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking
• Whipped topping in a can
• 24 fresh blueberries
• 12 fresh strawberries, tops removed
• Maple syrup, for serving

I chatted with Kelsey Shepard, a cookie exchange expert, professional baker and owner of Kelsey Elizabeth Cakes, to get her top tips on hosting a successful Christmas cookie party. Kelsey has hosted cookie exchange parties since her high school days and has picked up tons of tips, tricks and ideas over the years. She’s now in her second year of hosting The Cookie Exchange, an event in Northern Ohio that brings together more than 200 bakers in a single evening. And this year, Taste of Home is a sponsor!

Below, youll find the blueprint for hosting a stress-free cookie exchange party. With proper planning and a detailed to-do list, youll be able to actually enjoy your party and maybe even have a festive Christmas cocktail or two.

How does a cookie exchange work?

A Christmas cookie exchange is exactly how it sounds: a festive event where guests bring a large batch of one type of homemade cookie to share, plus copies of the recipe. After the exchange, everyone goes home with an assortment of Christmas cookies.

When the guests arrive, Kelsey has everyone set up their cookies on a large buffet table. The first hour is for mingling, introducing people, taste-testing cookies and enjoying light bites and fizzy drinks. The second hour is for the main event: exchanging cookies! She encourages guests to go around the table with a container, grab the allotted cookie amount per person and pick up a recipe card copy.

Kelsey suggests adding to the fun with a superlative voting aspect. Have guests vote and give awards for the favorite cookie,” like the most festive or most original. The prizes don’t have to be fancy; they could be anything from bragging rights to a cute spatula or ornament!

How to Plan a Stress-Free Cookie Exchange

The key to hosting a stress-free cookie exchange is slowly chipping away at a to-do list over time. Our timeline starts one month before the party, so theres plenty of time to get everything done.

Keep in mind, you can plan any size event you like. It can be among just a few friends or a few hundred (like Kelsey’s). You can also decide to take on all of the hosting duties yourself or delegate specific tasks to other guests. For example, ask volunteers to bring drinks and light bites, or task a musically gifted friend to create the partys playlist.

Christmas Cookie Exchange Timeline

1 Month Before the Cookie Party

• Prepare your guest list: Before you make a long list of friends, family, neighbors and co-workers, Kelsey advises you to consider your space. I like to have the cookies all on one table for aesthetic reasons, so if your table seats six, I would make the guest list no bigger than that. If you want to host more guests, set up a table nearby and make sure there is an organic flow for people to move around when it comes time to package up the cookies.
• Set a date: The holiday season can fill up quickly, so Kelsey suggests setting a date in early December before people’s calendars become too chaotic. Keep the party around two hours, three at most, and consider hosting on a weekday evening.
• Choose your rules: A must-have rule is how many cookies each guest should bring to the exchange. Other rules to consider are whether the cookies must be homemade and if it’s OK for guests to bring non-cookie items, like Christmas candies or chocolate bark.
• Create and deliver the invites: Turn to evites for ease, or get crafty and send handmade invitations via snail mail. Include the date, time and RSVP due date. Let the guests know about any rules, including the number of cookies each guest should bring. Provide a space for guests to list their cookie choice, too. Kelsey likes to “be cheeky” and says, “The first one to RSVP gets to make the cookie, and any later duplicates will be asked to change, so RSVP sooner rather than later!”

3 Weeks Before the Party

• Follow up on RSVPs: On the due date, sit down and review your guest list. Did everyone respond? Are there any cookie duplicates you overlooked? While this may seem menial, these small logistical tasks will ensure your party is a sweet success.
• Choose your own bake: If youre unsure which cookie to make yourself, Kelsey suggests beautifully decorated sugar cookies to impress guests or a batch of peanut butter blossoms for an easier option.
• Shop for party supplies: Now is the time to shop for non-edible party supplies, like plates, napkins, cups, silverware, festive tablecloths and cookie trays. Make sure to grab a pack of blank place cards for guests to write their cookie name on, or spread out butcher paper on the table and have guests write it right on the table, advises Kelsey. Either way, make sure everyone knows which cookies are which!
• Buy or make gifts for any prize winners: If you plan to give awards, start thinking about prizes. This could be a baking spatula, apron, gift card, funny trophy or any practical gift for bakers.
• Acquire cookie boxes: This step is optional, as guests can bring their own containers. However, you can go the extra mile by providing festive Christmas cookie packaging. Kelsey likes to use brown craft boxes, writing each guest’s name on their box and adding a festive finish with red and white bakers twine.

2 Weeks Before the Party

• Create a menu: It’s always nice for guests to mingle and get to know one another over light bites and bubbly Christmas drinks. To keep it stress-free, stick to easy appetizers and no-cook dishes, like a Christmas tree charcuterie board. As far as drinks go, Kelsey suggests party punchbowl recipes. I like to have a punch ready to go and chilled as well, so guests can serve themselves all night, and Im not stuck making individual cocktails.
• Make a shopping list: Now that your menu is set, write a grocery list. Tack it to your fridge so it’s easy to add items as you think of them. (Dont forget to include your cookies ingredients!)
• Curate a playlist: Start thinking about the party’s mood and create a Christmas cookie exchange playlist. Not sure what to play? Christmas songs, of course! You can’t go wrong with classics like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra, either.

2 Days Before the Party

• Go grocery shopping: Now that you’re in the home stretch, its time to do The Big Shop. Grab your grocery list and head to the store.
• Set up tables and chairs: Your dining table is the perfect place to set up cookies for the exchange, but you may want to move the chairs away from the table to make room. You can set them up elsewhere for extra seating.
• Make your cookie dough: In culinary school, I learned how important it was to chill cookie dough. Letting it sit in the fridge for 24 hours gives the fats time to solidify and helps the ingredients meld together, creating cookies with the best flavor and texture.

1 Day Before the Party

• Set up decorations: It’s time to get festive! Set up your Christmas decorations and lay down the tablecloth. Arrange the cookie trays on the table so guests can lay out their cookies once they arrive. Feel free to set out plates, napkins, cups and silverware, too.
• Bake your cookies: I highly recommend baking your cookies the day before the party, especially if they need to be decorated. Most cookies will last for up to five days at room temperature. Store the cookies properly to keep them fresh for tomorrow.
• Make the drinks: If youve decided to do a large-batch pitcher or bowl of punch, mix up your drinks and let them chill in the fridge. If your drink has a fizzy component, wait to add the bubbles until right before the event.
• Prepare the food: Now is a good time to double-check that you have everything you need, as there’s still time for one final run to the store. You can also prepare any make-ahead items, like dips, skewered light bites or charcuterie boards. Tightly wrap any prepared items in storage wrap and store them in the fridge.
• Clean, clean, clean: Spruce up any areas of the house where guests will mingle. Our holiday cleaning checklist can help to manage this often-tedious task.

Party Day!

• Create the Christmas feeling: Light some candles, start a fire in the fireplace and turn on your Christmas cookie party playlist.
• Set up food and drinks: About 30 minutes before the party starts, set up the appetizers and drinks in their designated area. When your guests arrive, help them set up their cookie trays. If you asked guests to bake a few extra cookies for everyone to try at the exchange, cut them up and set them out in front of each tray.
• Mingle and graze: Introduce your guests to each other and encourage them to mingle as they enjoy the snacks. If youre voting on cookie superlatives, make sure everyone tries the cookies and casts their vote.
• Exchange cookies: You’ve arrived at the main event! Inform everyone how many cookies they can take from each tray and give them time to build their cookie boxes.
• Announce the winners: If you have cookie exchange superlatives, tally up the votes. Once everyone’s boxes are packed, announce the winners and hand out awards, if any.

Christmas Cookie Party FAQ

How many cookies should you bring to a holiday cookie exchange?

Every cookie exchange is a little different, so the number of cookies to bring really depends on the number of guests. Kelsey recommends planning on 10 of each cookie per person for parties with four to six guests. So, for a party with five people, each guest would bake 50 cookies. If youre hosting 7 to 10 people, you can reduce the number of cookies to five per person, so guests at a 10-person party would still only bake 50 cookies.

Remember that people will probably want to try everyone’s cookies, so encourage guests to bake a few extra so they can be cut up and sampled at the party.

What are the rules for a cookie exchange?

One of the most prominent rules for a cookie exchange is that the cookies must be homemade. Another common rule is that cookie choices must be unique. An assortment of special Christmas cookies is the secret to the best cookie platter!

Otherwise, the rules are at the discretion of the host. Sometimes, the host will specify that they only want to exchange cookiesno Christmas candy, chocolate bark or truffles. Another rule is to skip everyday cookies, like chocolate chip cookies. No matter what rules you choose, be sure that everyone brings the appropriate number of cookies so each guest goes home with an equal amount.

What is the most popular cookie at Christmas?

Some of the most popular Christmas cookie recipes are gingerbread men and decorated sugar cookies. Those can be a little time-consuming, so feel free to go with easy Christmas cookies for a stress-free holiday. If youre keen on bringing a unique cookie, take a peek at some cookies from around the world. Alfajores or Jammy Dodgers, anyone?

The post How to Plan a Stress-Free Christmas Cookie Exchange, Straight from a Pro appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• 3 slices bacon strips
• 2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup shredded white sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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.

VIA MERCHANT

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We Tried It

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

VIA MERCHANT

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We Tried It

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.

The post Balsam Hill Ornament Storage Review: The Safest Way To Store Your Baubles appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 cans (10-1/2 ounces each) gluten-free condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon gluten-free reduced-sodium tamari soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1-1/2 cups gluten-free panko bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 can (6 ounces) gluten-free french-fried onions

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 12 tablespoons butter, divided

Ingredients

• 18 medium fresh mushrooms
• 1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Minced fresh parsley, optional

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup eggnog
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1-1/2 ounces brewed espresso
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Whipped cream, optional

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (about 1-1/2 cups)
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded, ribs removed
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

Ingredients

• 1 can (10-1/2 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 package (28 ounces) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Ingredients

• 2-1/2 cups maple syrup
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup butter

Ingredients

• 1 loaf (1 pound) day old brioche bread, cubed
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1-1/4 teaspoons ground cloves
• 1-1/4 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons molasses
• 2 large egg, room temperature
• 1-1/2 cups whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar or granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE:
• 2 ounces brewed espresso
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• Whipped cream and ground nutmeg, as garnish

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.

KATIE SYNOLD FOR TASTE OF HOME

Shop on Grandin Road

We Tried It

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!

KATIE SYNOLD FOR TASTE OF HOME

Shop on Grandin Road

We Tried It

Woodside Christmas Tree

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

Shop on Grandin Road

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

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk, warm
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 cup Sourdough Starter, fed and allowed to rise
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• FILLING:
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• FROSTING:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

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.

VIA MERCHANT

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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

VIA MERCHANT

Shop on Balsam Hill

We Tried It

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.

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• PECAN PIE TOPPING:
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1-1/4 cups chopped pecans
• Graham crackers, vanilla wafers and apple slices, for serving