hot and cold face steamer

12 FLAVORS OF PERFECT DEVILED EGGS (PALEO APPROVED!)

I was genuinely taken aback. To me, deviled eggs were always those festive treats you whip up at Easter, especially when you’re faced with a fridge brimming with dyed hard-boiled eggs that need to be used.

But now, I see the appeal! Our classic deviled eggs recipe is the most delicious version I’ve ever had—light, bright, and bursting with flavor. With an additional TWELVE unique flavors of deviled eggs to explore, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste!

Today, I’ll guide you through my go-to deviled egg recipe and introduce you to 12 mouthwatering variations to try when you want to mix things up. Here’s everything I’ve learned about making the ultimate deviled eggs…

THE BEST WAY TO COOK EGGS FOR DEVILED EGGS? STEAMING

After trying various methods over the years, I can confidently say that steaming eggs is the way to go. It’s foolproof! This technique works with all brands and levels of egg freshness, and I’ve never ended up with mangled egg whites. It’s my go-to method for preparing perfect deviled eggs.

How to Steam Eggs on the Stovetop:

Prep Your Pan: Fill a saucepan with about 1 inch of water, place a steamer basket inside, and bring the water to a simmer.

Poke a Tiny Hole (Optional): If you’d like, use a pushpin or needle to gently poke a small hole in one end of each egg. This allows the air bubble to escape, making peeling easier later on. While this step isn’t strictly necessary, it does help!

Add the Eggs: Once the water is simmering, place your eggs in the steamer basket in a single layer.

Cover and Steam:

  • 8-10 minutes for soft-boiled eggs
  • 10-12 minutes for medium-boiled eggs
  • 13-15 minutes for hard-boiled eggs

If you’re steaming a larger batch (10-12 eggs), aim for the 15-minute range, possibly extending to 17 minutes if you prefer them firmer.

After steaming, it’s time to peel! I usually run the cooked eggs under cold water or place them in an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice and water). Then, I gently crack the shells all over, and they slide right off!

Now, your perfect hard-boiled eggs are ready to be transformed into delicious deviled eggs!

MY PERFECT CLASSIC DEVILED EGGS

For my ideal deviled eggs, I use a simple yet delicious combination of mayonnaise and regular yellow mustard, along with a splash of acid—be it vinegar, pickle juice, or lemon or lime juice—and a pinch of salt.

HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC DEVILED EGGS

  • Boil or Steam Your Eggs: Use my preferred method from above.
  • Cool and Peel: Once cooked, cool the eggs and peel them.
  • Prepare the Egg Yolks: Cut each egg in half lengthwise and scoop the yolks into a bowl. Set the egg whites aside on a plate or platter while you prepare the filling.
  • Make the Filling: In the bowl with the yolks, combine mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, and salt. Mash or beat the mixture until it’s smooth and uniform in texture.
  • Fill the Egg Whites: Spoon or pipe the deviled egg filling back into the egg whites. I personally love the rustic look of spooning the filling, but if you prefer a fancier presentation, feel free to use a piping bag and tips!
  • Garnish: Finish off your deviled eggs with a sprinkle of salt and pepper or a light dusting of paprika for that classic touch.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO EXPERIMENT WITH FLAVORS!

Deviled eggs are incredibly versatile, and you can easily take them in various directions without needing fancy ingredients or too much extra effort. You can switch up the mayonnaise or mustard to try new flavors—think flavored mayo or Dijon mustard. Experimenting can be a lot of fun!

Now that you’ve mastered the classic deviled egg recipe, let’s explore 12 exciting flavors to try…

12 FLAVORS OF DEVILED EGGS TO TRY

Now that you’ve perfected the classic deviled egg recipe, it’s time to explore some delicious variations! Here are 12 of our favorites (and believe me, it would be easy to come up with even more!):

Dill Pickle: Use pickle juice as directed, then mix in 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped dill pickle and a pinch of dried or fresh dill into the yolk mixture.

Peppered Bacon: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs (like cilantro, dill, basil, or parsley) to your yolk mixture and swap in 1/4 teaspoon of steak seasoning for the pepper. Top with crumbled crispy bacon, extra herbs, and halved cherry tomatoes.

Smoked Paprika: Substitute lime juice for the pickle juice. Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro (optional) and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the yolk mixture. Garnish with more smoked paprika to taste.

Lemon Chive: Replace the pickle juice with lemon juice. Add 1-2 tablespoons of minced chives and an extra pinch of pepper to the yolk mixture. Top with a bit of lemon zest, more pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh chives.

Curry: Use lemon or lime juice instead of pickle juice and mix in 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of yellow curry powder. Garnish with minced cilantro or additional curry powder, as desired.

Sriracha Lime: Swap pickle juice for lime juice and add a few drops of sriracha to the yolk mixture. Top with a hint of lime zest and more sriracha if you like it spicy.

Chipotle: Use lime juice in place of pickle juice. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers (start small if you prefer milder heat), or 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of dried chipotle chili powder. Top with cilantro and extra chipotle powder or sauce to taste.

Avocado: Omit the mustard. Use 2 teaspoons of lemon or lime juice instead of pickle juice, and substitute 2-4 tablespoons of fresh avocado for the mayo. Add fresh cilantro to taste. (You can also use prepared guacamole in place of the avocado!)

Salt & Vinegar: Replace pickle juice with vinegar and add an extra teaspoon to the yolk mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt (like Maldon salt).

Salsa Verde: Omit the mustard and pickle juice. Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of salsa verde along with the mayo and salt in the yolk mixture. Add fresh cilantro if desired and top with more salsa and cilantro.

Buffalo: Leave out the mustard and add 1-2 teaspoons of Frank’s RedHot (or your favorite hot sauce) to the yolk mixture along with mayo, pickle juice, and salt. Garnish with fresh chives or dill if you like.

Everything Bagel Seasoning: Follow the classic deviled egg directions, then top with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning just before serving. 

These creative flavors will elevate your deviled eggs and impress your guests!

DIY AROMATHERAPY SHOWER MELTS: 4 EASY RECIPES

Discover how to create your own aromatherapy DIY shower melts using essential oils! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make and use shower steamers, featuring four delightful homemade recipes: invigorating citrus fizzies to wake you up, eucalyptus shower bombs to soothe colds, relaxing rose shower tablets, and lavender melts to promote restful sleep. This post is a guest contribution from Country Hill Cottage and includes helpful tips for packaging, along with free printable labels for gift-giving!

We all need a bit of wellness now and then, and aromatherapy shower steamers are the perfect way to create a spa-like experience in your own bathroom. Personally, I often opt for a quick shower instead of a long bath, making homemade shower melts an ideal choice for a refreshing aromatherapy boost. Whether you’re showering in the morning for a revitalizing lift or winding down in the evening after a stressful day, these little luxuries can transform your everyday routine into a relaxing wellness retreat. Sound good? Let’s dive into making DIY shower melts!

Benefits of shower melts

Bath bombs, bath soaks, and milk baths are well-loved products for enjoying the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils in the tub. But what about using essential oils in the shower? Enter DIY shower melts! When activated by water, these shower melts fizz away, releasing delightful fragrances that indulge your senses and soothe your mind.

Aromatherapy shower melts—also known as shower tablets, shower bombs, or shower steamers—are effective for balancing your mind and emotions, relieving stress and tension, and alleviating symptoms of headaches or sinus congestion.

Materials and supplies for shower melts

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients for making basic shower melts:

  • Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and citric acid: These two ingredients are crucial for creating the fizzing effect. The reaction begins when baking soda and citric acid come into contact with water.
  • Arrowroot powder: This ingredient stabilizes the shower melts and helps control the fizzing reaction. Cornstarch can also be used as an alternative.
  • White kaolin clay: Incorporating clay helps extend the longevity of the shower steamers. If you prefer a recipe without clay, check out these DIY shower melts for colds.
  • Essential oils: The aromatherapy benefits of shower tablets come from the essential oils used. Keep reading to discover various shower melt recipes featuring essential oils.
  • Silicone mold: I used a simple round mold, which is the perfect size for creating single-use melts that last for one shower.

How to make DIY shower melts – step-by-step tutorial

DIY shower melts are simple to make! For precise measurements of each ingredient, be sure to consult the recipe card at the bottom of this post. For a detailed, step-by-step tutorial with process photos, check out this guide to DIY shower steamers.

Let’s get started on making shower melts:

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    In a large, non-metallic mixing bowl, combine the baking soda, citric acid, arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, and mica or natural colorant (if using). Whisk until well combined.
  2. Add Essential Oils:
    Drop the essential oils into the mixture and give it a quick stir. This helps distribute the oils evenly and prepares them for the next step.
  3. Spritz with Water:
    Lightly spritz the mixture with a small amount of water, alcohol, or witch hazel, and immediately incorporate it to prevent a reaction. If you don’t have a spritz bottle, you can sprinkle water using a teaspoon.Tip: Wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands during this process, as citric acid can remove nail polish and irritate sensitive skin.
  4. Tips for the Best Consistency:
    Achieving the right moisture level is crucial for perfect homemade shower melts. The mixture should resemble damp sand and be wet enough to hold its shape when pressed together.
    • Too Dry: If the mixture is too crumbly and falls apart, break it into a bowl, reconstitute with a little water, and mold it again.
    • Too Wet: If the mixture is too moist, it will expand, affecting the fizzing reaction. You can tell if there’s too much moisture if you hear a fizzling sound, indicating premature reactions. To fix this, add more arrowroot powder, one teaspoon at a time, until the fizzing stops.
  5. Fill the Mold:
    Fill a silicone mold with the shower melts mixture, pressing firmly with your fingertips, especially at the edges.Tip: If you’re using dried herbs or flowers, add them before filling the mold. Keep larger decorations, like dried rose petals, away from the edges to prevent breakage.
  6. Dry and Unmold the Aromatherapy Shower Melts:
    Allow the shower melts to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours until they feel hard and solid. To unmold, carefully peel back the silicone and gently push the melts out.Tip: Humidity can affect the drying time of shower tablets. If you live in a humid area, be prepared for a longer drying period.

And there you have it—beautiful homemade shower melts infused with essential oils! Now that you know the steps, let’s explore four different recipes designed for energy, relaxation, sleep, and sinus relief.

Energising citrus wake up shower melts

Imagine waking up in a fragrant citrus orchard, surrounded by blooming lemon, orange, and grapefruit trees. Lovely, isn’t it?

My homemade wake-up citrus shower melts have a bright, uplifting aroma that will energize you and help you start your day on a positive note.

Essential Oils for Citrus Wake-Up Shower Melts
A refreshing blend of citrus essential oils gives these morning shower fizzies an invigorating fragrance. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 100 drops lemon essential oil
  • 80 drops sweet orange essential oil
  • 80 drops grapefruit essential oil

Other Materials for Citrus Shower Melts
I chose not to add color to the wake-up shower melts but used dried calendula petals as a decorative touch. Their cheerful yellow hue reminds me of a sunrise, making them simply perfect for this uplifting shower bomb recipe.

DIY eucalyptus shower bombs with menthol

Eucalyptus shower bombs with menthol crystals are one of my favorite natural remedies for colds, stuffy noses, headaches, and respiratory issues. Inhaling eucalyptus essential oil provides a soothing effect and acts as a decongestant for the sinuses and airways.

Essential Oils for Eucalyptus Shower Tablets
Here are the essential oils you’ll need for this eucalyptus shower melts recipe:

  • 100 drops eucalyptus essential oil
  • 50 drops peppermint essential oil
  • 30 drops pine essential oil
  • 15 drops thyme thymol essential oil

Kid-Safe DIY Eucalyptus Shower Tablets
While eucalyptus, peppermint, and thyme thymol essential oils are effective for easing respiratory issues in adults, they aren’t suitable for children due to their high camphor content.

To create kid-safe decongestant shower tablets, use the following essential oil blend:

  • 80 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
  • 50 drops spearmint essential oil
  • 20 drops pine essential oil

Other Materials for Shower Melts with Menthol Crystals
The decongestant effect of this homemade shower melts recipe is enhanced by adding menthol crystals. These crystals are a solid compound derived from mint oil, and their strong aroma helps open the airways.

Since menthol crystals are highly concentrated, please do not exceed the amount specified in the recipe card below. Additionally, it’s best to omit the crystals for children under seven.

I colored the eucalyptus shower bombs with a small amount of green mica and added a sprinkling of dried herbs for an extra touch.

Uplifting shower tablets for relaxation and stress relief

The scent of these rose shower tablets is both calming and balancing, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. I love using these shower bursts before meditation or after a workout.

Rose absolute essential oil imparts a floral and sensual aroma to the relaxation shower melts, making them perfect for unwinding and de-stressing during your shower.

Essential Oils for Relaxing DIY Shower Tablets
To create a calming and relaxing essential oil blend with rose, you will need:

  • 100 drops rose absolute oil
  • 60 drops ylang ylang essential oil
  • 30 drops vetiver essential oil

Other Materials for Homemade Rose Shower Melts
For a delightful touch, I chose dried rose petals and pink mica to enhance the rose-scented shower melts. I can also imagine how lovely white shower bombs with rose petals would look.

If desired, you can color your steamers with beet powder for an extra pop of color.

Homemade lavender shower melts for sleep

Here’s another relaxing DIY shower melt recipe, this time featuring essential oils that promote sleep and deep relaxation.

These soothing tablets are perfect for calming your mind before bedtime, helping to encourage a restful night’s sleep.

Essential Oils for Sleepy Shower Bombs
Let’s explore the essential oils needed for lavender shower tablets:

  • 100 drops lavender essential oil
  • 40 drops chamomile essential oil
  • 40 drops neroli essential oil

Other Materials for DIY Lavender Shower Melts


These stress-relief shower melts are customized with blue mica and dried cornflower petals. This shower steamer recipe for sleep would also look beautiful with violet mica and dried lavender buds.

Alternatively, you could use blue spirulina powder as a natural colorant.

How to Use Shower Melts

Here are some tips for using shower tablets:

  1. Place the DIY shower melts away from direct water and the drain. Ideally, only the bottom of the tablets should get wet. A soap dish is a great option for holding the shower melt.
  2. Breathe deeply as the essential oils vaporize into the air, and enjoy the aromatherapy experience.

How Long Do Shower Melts Last?
Small shower melts, like the ones I created for this post, typically last for one shower, and possibly two, depending on their placement and the duration of your shower.

How Do You Make Shower Melts Last Longer?
To extend the life of your shower melts, keep them out of direct water flow. If they get too wet, they will fizz away quickly, and the essential oils will dissipate too fast.

Using kaolin clay in the recipe also helps prolong their duration by slowing the reaction between the baking soda and citric acid.

Can You Use a Shower Bomb as a Bath Bomb?
No, it is not safe to use shower melts as bath bombs. Shower steamers are designed to infuse the air with essential oils and are not meant for skin contact.

Essential oils are not water-soluble, meaning that if you add them to bathwater, they will pool on the surface, which can lead to irritation and skin rashes. Bath bombs typically contain an emulsifier that safely distributes essential oils in the water, whereas shower steamers do not include such agents.

For more information about essential oil bath safety, check out this article by the Tisserand Institute.

Homemade shower melts: a lovely beauty and wellness gift idea

Shower Steamers as Unique Homemade Gifts

Tips for Packaging Shower Melts for Gifting
When preparing your DIY shower melts as gifts, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their quality. Here are some packaging tips:

  • Airtight Containers: Keep your shower melts in an airtight container or jar to protect them from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. A dry cupboard is an ideal storage location.
  • Cute Packaging Ideas: Consider using 4oz quilted mason jars or flip-top jars for a charming presentation. These containers not only look appealing but also ensure that your shower melts stay fresh.

Shower Bomb Favors for Weddings and Parties

Shower bombs make for thoughtful and budget-friendly favors for weddings and parties. You can easily package two to three shower melts in a small organza or muslin bag, then attach a thank-you tag for a beautiful and memorable wedding favor!

Wellness Gift Set

Incorporate your shower bombs into a wellness gift set! They make a delightful addition to a pamper hamper and are a unique gift idea for natural beauty enthusiasts.

For more beauty and wellness gift inspirations, consider adding chocolate rose bath truffles, a luxurious milk and honey bath soak, or refreshing pink lemonade tub tea to your collection.

Printable labels and gift tags

This homemade shower melts recipe comes with free printable labels and gift tags, perfect for packaging and gifting!

The round printable labels are specifically designed to fit the lids of 4 oz mason jars. The gift tags feature thoughtful sayings for various occasions and holidays.

To access the free printable PDF, simply sign up using the email form below. Once you confirm your email, you’ll receive immediate access.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own aromatherapy shower melts is not only a fun and rewarding DIY project but also a fantastic way to enhance your daily shower routine. With simple ingredients and customizable essential oil blends, you can create shower tablets tailored to your mood, whether you’re seeking energy, relaxation, or relief from colds. These delightful shower melts can also serve as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, packaged beautifully with the included labels and tags. So why not indulge in a little self-care and create your own shower melts today? Transform your showers into a soothing escape and elevate your wellness experience, one melt at a time!