There’s something so satisfying about making your own skincare, especially when the finished product feels like something you’d find at a luxury spa. The DIY Sunset Glow Lotion Dots Kit from Simply Earth is one of those projects that’s both fun to make and practical to use.
These little lotion dots are made with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax, then scented with Sweet Orange and Cedarwood essential oils for a warm, earthy aroma. They melt on contact with warm skin, leaving it soft, hydrated, and lightly scented without the greasy feeling that some lotion bars can leave behind.
Why You’ll Love These DIY Lotion Dots
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how luxurious the finished lotion feels. Simply Earth uses cetyl alcohol, a plant-derived ingredient that gives the lotion dots a silky, dry-touch finish while helping them glide effortlessly across your skin.
Benefits
Deeply moisturizes dry skin
Melts easily into warm skin
Leaves skin soft without feeling sticky
Naturally scented with Sweet Orange and Cedarwood essential oils
Beautiful marbled colors using natural mica powders
Perfect for gifting or travel
What’s Included in the Kit
The Simply Earth DIY Sunset Glow Lotion Dots Kit includes:
Orange (Sweet) Essential Oil
Cedarwood (Atlas) Essential Oil
Beeswax
Cetyl Alcohol
Stearic Acid
Shea Butter
Coconut Oil
Yellow Gold Mica Powder
Rose Red Mica Powder
Fuchsia Mica Powder
Silicone Dot Mold
Three Window Tin Containers
Labels
Supplies You’ll Need From Home
You’ll only need a few household items:
Baking sheet
Parchment paper, wax paper, or a silicone baking mat
Three small bowls or pouring pitchers
Double boiler (or a microwave-safe container)
How to Make Sunset Glow Lotion Dots
Making these lotion dots is surprisingly simple.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and place the silicone dot mold on top.
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients
Using a double boiler over medium-low heat, melt together:
Beeswax
Cetyl Alcohol
Stearic Acid
Once those begin melting, add the shea butter and coconut oil. Stir until everything is completely smooth and clear.
If you prefer, you can also melt everything in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring between each round.
Step 3: Add the Essential Oils
Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for about one to two minutes until the edges just begin to turn opaque.
Stir in the Sweet Orange and Cedarwood essential oils.
Step 4: Add Color
Divide the mixture evenly into three small bowls.
Mix one mica color into each bowl:
Yellow Gold
Rose Red
Fuchsia
If the mixture starts to harden while you’re working, simply warm it for a few seconds.
Step 5: Fill the Mold
Pour each color into a different corner of the mold.
Use the included scraper to spread the lotion evenly across all the cavities. Don’t worry if the colors swirl together. That’s part of what makes every batch unique.
If you have extra mixture left over, pour it into a small container. It makes a wonderful cuticle balm or lip balm.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate the mold for about 30 minutes.
If the lotion dots are still soft, place them in the freezer for another 15 minutes.
Step 7: Cure
Carefully remove the lotion dots from the mold and place them on your lined baking sheet.
Allow them to sit for 24 hours in a cool place before transferring them to the included tins.
How to Use Lotion Dots
Using them couldn’t be easier.
Simply warm one lotion dot between your hands until it begins to melt, then massage it into dry skin anywhere that needs extra moisture.
They’re perfect for:
Hands
Elbows
Knees
Feet
Cuticles
Tips for Success
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the essential oils to help preserve their scent.
Work quickly once you divide the mixture into colors since it will begin to harden.
Don’t stress about perfectly separated colors. The marbled effect is beautiful.
Store the finished lotion dots in a cool, dry place.
My Thoughts
I genuinely loved making this project. The process was relaxing, the colors are gorgeous, and the finished lotion dots feel incredibly luxurious. They glide onto your skin, absorb beautifully, and leave behind just the right amount of moisture.
I also appreciate knowing exactly what’s in my skincare products. It’s one more way to swap everyday products for ingredients I recognize and trust.
If you’ve been curious about DIY skincare, this is one of the easiest projects to start with.
I love finding recipes that become instant staples, and this one earned a permanent spot in our dinner rotation. These Chicken Caesar Salad Burgers are crispy on the outside, incredibly juicy on the inside, and topped with a fresh Caesar salad for the perfect bite. The biggest surprise for me wasn’t even the Caesar salad topping. It was learning about something called a panade. This was my first time making burgers with a panade, and now I’m convinced it’s the secret to the juiciest burgers ever. If you’ve never tried one before, prepare to wonder why you waited so long.
What Is a Panade?
A panade is simply a mixture of breadcrumbs and a liquid that gets mixed into ground meat before cooking. Instead of using milk, this recipe uses mayonnaise along with panko breadcrumbs, creating an incredibly moist and tender chicken burger. I used the crispy ground chicken burger recipe from Two Kooks in the Kitchen for the patties, and the texture was unbelievable. The burgers stayed juicy without falling apart, and the crispy panko coating gave them the perfect crunch.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Caesar Salad Burgers
● Crispy golden chicken patties ● Moist and tender thanks to the panade ● Fresh, crunchy Caesar salad in every bite ● Easy enough for a weeknight dinner ● Perfect for grilling season or cooking indoors
Ingredients
For the burgers, I used the crispy ground chicken burger recipe from Two Kooks in the Kitchen. You’ll also need: ● 1 Caesar salad kit ● Sesame rolls (or your favorite burger buns)
How to Make Chicken Caesar Salad Burgers
Step 1: Make the Chicken Patties Prepare the chicken burger patties according to the original recipe from Two Kooks in the Kitchen. The patties are coated in flour, egg, and panko before being pan-fried until golden brown and cooked through. Step 2: Prepare the Caesar Salad While the burgers are cooking, toss together the Caesar salad kit, including the dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. Step 3: Toast the Rolls Lightly toast the sesame rolls for extra flavor and texture. Step 4: Assemble Place one crispy chicken burger on the bottom bun. Pile the Caesar salad generously on top before adding the top bun. Serve immediately while everything is fresh and crispy.
Tips for the Best Chicken Burgers
● Wet your hands before shaping the patties to prevent sticking. ● Let the breaded patties rest for several minutes before cooking so the coating stays in place. ● Don’t overmix the ground chicken. Mixing just until combined helps keep the burgers tender. ● Toasting the buns keeps them from getting soggy once you add the salad.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
The patties can be made and breaded ahead of time, then refrigerated until you’re ready to cook them. You can also cook the patties in advance and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them back up before serving.
What to Serve with Chicken Caesar Salad Burgers
These burgers pair well with: ● French fries ● Sweet potato fries ● Potato chips ● Pasta salad ● Fresh fruit ● Roasted vegetables
My Honest Review
I expected these burgers to be good, but I didn’t expect them to be this good. The chicken stayed incredibly juicy, and the crispy coating paired perfectly with the creamy Caesar salad. The panade completely changed the texture of the burger, and it’s a technique I’ll be using anytime I make ground chicken, turkey, or even beef burgers. If you’re looking for a fun twist on burger night, these Chicken Caesar Salad Burgers are definitely worth trying.
Recipe Credit: The crispy ground chicken patties are adapted from the original recipe by Two Kooks in the Kitchen. You can find their full recipe here
If you’re looking for a simple homemade beauty project, this DIY Rose Red Lip Butter is the perfect place to start. It comes from this month’s Simply Earth recipe box and combines nourishing ingredients with a soft rosy tint for lips that feel hydrated and look naturally radiant.
I decided to pour mine into tiny seashells instead of the included cosmetic tin, and I absolutely love how they turned out. They make the cutest summer lip butter containers and are perfect to keep in your beach bag or display on your vanity
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Ingredients
½ teaspoon beeswax
1 teaspoon almond oil
1½ teaspoons castor oil
¼ teaspoon rose red mica powder
2 drops Lavender (Bulgarian) essential oil
15 mL rectangular cosmetic tin (or another small container, like a clean seashell)
Directions
Combine the beeswax, almond oil, and castor oil in a heat-safe bowl over a small pot of simmering water or in a double boiler.
Once everything has melted, stir in the rose red mica powder until it is completely suspended in the mixture. This helps prevent the color from settling at the bottom.
Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for about 60 seconds. Then add 2 drops of Lavender (Bulgarian) essential oil and stir well.
Carefully pour the mixture into the included 15 mL cosmetic tin or your container of choice.
Allow the lip butter to cool completely at room temperature for the smoothest, buttery texture.
Using Seashells as Lip Butter Containers
One of my favorite parts of this DIY was swapping the cosmetic tin for small seashells. They instantly give this project a beachy, coastal feel and make adorable little containers for your lip butter.
Or, if you’re collecting your own at the beach, that’s even better! Just be sure to clean and sanitize them thoroughly before using them for any cosmetic product. Wash away any sand or debris, then disinfect them and allow them to dry completely before pouring in your lip butter.
Why You’ll Love This DIY
This lip butter feels like a deep conditioner for your lips. The beeswax helps lock in moisture, almond oil softens dry skin, castor oil gives it a smooth glide, and the rose red mica adds a subtle wash of color. The lavender essential oil gives it a light, relaxing scent that makes each application feel like a little self-care moment.
Get the Original Recipe
You can find the original Simply Earth recipe here
Want to Try Simply Earth?
If you’re ready to start making your own natural DIY products, Simply Earth makes it incredibly easy with monthly recipe boxes that include recipes, ingredients, and essential oils.
Use my code NROSEFREE to receive a FREE $45 Bonus Box with your first subscription.
If you’re looking for new ways to use sourdough bread, these two viral recipes are worth adding to your list. One combines melted Babybel cheese with sweet jam for a surprisingly delicious toast. The other turns a classic peanut butter and jelly combination into a crunchy, sweet-and-salty masterpiece thanks to a generous handful of potato chips.
Both recipes come together in minutes and prove that sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most memorable snacks.
Viral Air Fryer Babybel Cheese Toast
This recipe has been popping up all over social media, and after trying it myself, I understand why.
Ingredients
1 slice sourdough bread
1 Mini Babybel cheese wheel, unwrapped
1 tablespoon jam of choice
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
Place the Babybel cheese wheel directly on top of the sourdough bread.
Air fry for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Carefully remove the toast and spread the melted cheese evenly across the bread.
Top with your favorite jam and serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love It
The creamy, melted cheese pairs beautifully with sweet jam, while the tangy sourdough adds the perfect base. It’s a combination that sounds unusual but works incredibly well.
Viral PB&J Potato Chip Toast
This viral toast takes all the flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and adds an irresistible crunch.
Ingredients
1 slice sourdough bread, toasted
1 tablespoon grape jelly
1 tablespoon peanut butter
1 handful Wavy Potato Chips
Instructions
Toast the sourdough bread until golden brown.
Spread the grape jelly evenly over the toast.
Microwave the peanut butter for 10 to 15 seconds until smooth and pourable.
Stir the potato chips into the melted peanut butter, coating them evenly.
Spoon the peanut butter and chip mixture over the jelly-covered toast.
Slice in half and enjoy immediately.
Why This Recipe Went Viral
Mixing the chips directly into the warm peanut butter creates the perfect sweet-and-salty topping. The chips stay crunchy while the peanut butter helps hold everything together, creating an irresistible combination of textures on top of the tangy sourdough and sweet grape jelly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of jam?
Absolutely. Strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, and mixed berry jams all work well in both recipes.
What other chips can I use?
Any salty potato chip will work, but wavy chips hold up especially well and provide extra crunch.
Can I make these with regular bread?
Yes, but sourdough provides the best texture and flavor. Its sturdy structure also holds up well to the toppings.
Are these recipes good for breakfast or snacks?
Both. The Babybel toast makes a great savory breakfast or afternoon snack, while the PB&J potato chip toast is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an after-school treat.
Can I add extra toppings?
Definitely. Fresh fruit, honey, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can all add another layer of flavor.
Which Viral Toast Should You Try First?
If you love sweet-and-savory combinations, start with the Babybel Cheese Toast. If you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors with a crunchy twist, the PB&J Potato Chip Toast is a must-try.
Either way, these viral sourdough recipes prove that a simple slice of toast can be anything but boring.
Looking for the perfect summer pasta salad? This Bruschetta Pasta Salad combines everything you love about classic bruschetta with a hearty pasta salad that’s perfect for cookouts, potlucks, and easy family dinners.
Juicy cherry tomatoes are marinated with garlic, olive oil, herbs, and vinegar before being tossed with tender pasta, creamy mozzarella pearls, crunchy croutons, and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Finish it all with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a dish that tastes like summer in every bite.
I love serving this alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or my recent favorite eggplant burgers, but it’s filling enough to enjoy as a meal on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Easy to prepare ahead of time
Full of fresh summer flavors
Perfect for parties and potlucks
Uses simple ingredients
A delicious twist on traditional pasta salad
Ingredients
½ pound pasta
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
¼ cup white wine vinegar
½ tablespoon oregano
1 tablespoon basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup marinated mozzarella balls
1 cup croutons
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
Balsamic glaze for serving
How to Make Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Croutons
If making homemade croutons, tear bread into small pieces and toast them in a skillet with a little olive oil and salt over medium-low heat until golden and crispy.
Marinate the Tomatoes
Add the olive oil to a large skillet over low heat. Sauté the garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Remove the pan from the heat and add the cherry tomatoes, white wine vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and allow the mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, marinated tomato mixture with all of its juices, mozzarella balls, half of the croutons, and half of the Parmigiano Reggiano.
Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. Top with the remaining croutons, additional Parmigiano Reggiano, and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Tips for Success
Let the tomato mixture marinate as long as possible for the best flavor.
Add the croutons just before serving to keep them crisp.
Use fresh basil if you have it on hand.
Rotini, cavatappi, bow tie, or penne pasta all work well in this recipe.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Recipe Notes
This recipe was inspired by a bruschetta pasta salad from The Pasta Table. The combination of marinated tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, Parmesan, and balsamic glaze creates a dish that feels elevated while still being incredibly easy to make. It’s the kind of recipe that disappears fast at summer gatherings, so you might want to make a double batch.
FAQ
What is bruschetta pasta salad?
Bruschetta pasta salad is inspired by traditional Italian bruschetta. It combines fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil with pasta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful summer side dish.
Can I make bruschetta pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the pasta and marinated tomato mixture up to a day in advance. Store them separately and combine before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, cavatappi, bow tie, penne, or fusilli work best because they hold onto the tomato marinade and cheese.
Can I use store-bought croutons?
Absolutely. Store-bought croutons are a great time-saver. If you prefer homemade, simply toast torn bread pieces in olive oil until golden brown.
How long does bruschetta pasta salad last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, add fresh croutons when serving leftovers.
Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Yes. Grilled chicken, shrimp, salami, or chickpeas all pair well with the fresh flavors in this recipe and can turn it into a complete meal.
Should bruschetta pasta salad be served cold?
It can be served chilled or at room temperature. Many people find the flavors are even better after the salad has had a little time to sit.
If motherhood has you stressed and you feel like you’ve lost your creativity, I am here to help! Here you will find easy recipes, simple DIY’s, affordable styles, and what to read next. I believe we all have a creative side, some of us just need a little help to find it. I will help inspire you to have creative expression without standards.
