Canadian Living December 2021 - Vol.46 No.10

Around the Canadian Living offices, we tend to compare the arrival of December with being at the top of that first giant hill on a roller coaster. Just like the feelings we get when we’re inching up that endless incline, this month we’re full of anticipation and delight—and a fair bit of panic—as we tip over the edge of fall into the downhill rush that’s part of the thrill of the holiday season. Now, we know what you’re thinking: The holidays this year aren’t going to be the same. We’re in a similar situation to last year, thanks to COVID-19, with curbs on our social gatherings and shopping excursions, at the very least. It’s true. So maybe that roller coaster’s first hill looks less like a sheer cliff and more like…

1 CLASSIC COMFORT You should be wearing something comfy when you’re hanging out in Loungetown. Fortunately, live-in-them pieces made from soft, sustainable fabrics are what Canadian loungewear company Hernest Project does best. We love the brand’s mandate to be eco-friendly, striving to minimize carbon emissions at every step of the manufacturing process. Your order will be shipped with compostable packaging and in reusable mesh bags. Plus, you’ll receive a confirmation email that outlines the community contributions your purchase supports, as well as an official digital carbon offset certificate from their partner, Green Story. 2 Chocolate for charity Milk chocolate, salted butter toffee and a good cause? Yes, please! Two dollars from every purchase of a Purdys Dear Santa Bar goes directly toward supporting children’s hospital foundations across the country. Select the partnering organization…

If there’s one place on Earth where winter reveals its magic, it’s Canada. From coast to coast, this season enchants with silver-tipped greenery, pristine snow and sparkling icy vistas just waiting to be explored. Lucky for us Canadians, we’re a hardy crew, willing to brave the elements for some physical activity. Even if these places are outside your travel comfort zone, we’re hoping they’ll inspire you to seek out your own happy place. So put on your parka and boots, skis or skates and enjoy the outdoors! GET INSPIRED TO PLAY OUTSIDE! 1 Shiver in the Valley of Ghosts The highest point in Quebec’s Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, Parc national des Monts-Valin benefits from exceptional snowfall every winter. That makes it a real paradise for snowshoeing. It’s also an ideal place to admire trees transformed…

VANILLA & CARAMEL BAKED ALASKA MAKES 12 SERVINGS HANDS-ON TIME 2 HOURS TOTAL TIME 7 HOURS Almond Sponge Cake ⅓ cup all-purpose flour3 tbsp ground almonds½ cup granulated sugar, divided3 eggs, at room temperature1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted Caramel Chip Ice Cream ⅔ cup granulated sugar¼ cup unsalted butter1 tbsp white corn syrup pinch salt8 cups vanilla ice cream, softened Meringue ½ cup pasteurized liquid egg whites (or 4 extra fresh egg whites)¼ tsp cream of tartar¾ cup granulated sugar Almond Sponge Cake Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 8-inch round cake pan and line bottom with parchment paper. In bowl, whisk together flour, almonds and ¼ cup of the sugar. Set aside. In large bowl, using electric mixer on medium speed, beat eggs with remaining sugar until sugar has dissolved, 1 to 2 minutes. Increase speed to medium-high and beat until…

1 Under the mistletoe The festively coloured essential trifecta of liner, lipstick and gloss. Pucker up! 2 It’s in the bag This vibrant cross-body bag fits all your essential items and won’t weigh you down—or compromise on style. 3 One hat, two ways Made from the softest merino wool, this toque can be worn as a beanie or with a rolled brim. A total winter must-have! 4 Sweater weather Anything from the gender-neutral and size-inclusive line by iconic Canadian brand Roots is a guranteed hit of a gift. 5 Sweet as can bee This luscious trio of skin-care products is perfect for anyone who loves clean beauty. 6 I like mine rare With this travel-size teaser set, amping up your look is as easy as one, two, three, four. 7 From the heart The headband and reusable microfibre cleansing pads in this combo…

15 Cheers to you Present the host with a gorgeous set of cocktail glasses and suddenly you’ll be the guest of honour. 16 Snack attack Nothing beats a classic Christmas flavour like ginger. These ginger snap cookies are just what guests need to munch on. 17 Soothing sips Six yummy teas in assorted flavours are sure to please the senses. 18 Cheese, please Add a couple of gourmet cheeses and a bottle of wine to this gift and your friends will be yours forever. 19 Cocoa loco Is there anything more comforting than a cup of hot chocolate? Make it fun for the kiddos, and kids at heart, with these cute marshmallow toppers. 20 Summer dreams For the person who wishes it’s always summer: watermelon-flavoured gin that’s delicious in mixed drinks and on its own. 21 Hops to it Beer afficionados will love…