night and day cream

20 BEST 40TH-BIRTHDAY GIFTS TO RING IN THE NEXT DECADE

Turning 40 is a milestone worth celebrating in style, and the perfect gift can make it even more special. The best 40th-birthday gifts reflect the recipient’s personality and interests, ensuring they feel truly appreciated on their big day. Whether you’re shopping for a best friend, a hard-to-please family member, or a partner who seems to have everything, we’ve got something to impress them.

For a hassle-free option, a curated gift set is always a winner—especially if it includes indulgent beauty finds. Prefer a more personal touch? Create a themed gift box tailored to their interests, whether it’s a spa-inspired self-care kit, travel must-haves, or cozy home essentials. Personalized gifts, like a custom book or monogrammed accessories, show thoughtfulness and effort, making them extra meaningful. If you’re looking to go big—perhaps with a group gift or a luxurious splurge—an upscale item will leave a lasting impression.

Our golden rule for gifting? Choose something they wouldn’t typically buy for themselves but would be absolutely thrilled to receive. From thoughtful presents for women to fun finds for men and sentimental treasures for loved ones, our gift guide takes the guesswork out of shopping. Just don’t forget to top it off with a heartfelt, handwritten card they’ll cherish forever.

INSTANATURAL VITAMIN C TONER – $12.55 (AMAZON), $20.00

Give her skincare routine a refresh with this brightening toner. Infused with witch hazel, lavender, and botanical extracts, it helps cleanse and hydrate while combating signs of aging. One reviewer raved, “My skin looks hydrated and smoother instantly—so glad I tried this product!”

MOROCCANOIL SHOWER GEL CLEANSER – $20.00 (AMAZON, SEPHORA, MOROCCANOIL)

Treat her to a little luxury in the shower with this ultra-hydrating body wash. Former Shop TODAY editor Ellen Abraham describes it as “an affordable luxury that smells amazing and leaves your skin silky smooth.” Ideal for those with sensitive skin, this cleanser is a must-have.

AOA STUDIO PAW PAW COLLECTION GIFT SET – $25.55 (MISS A), $31.60

For the homebody who loves a little pampering, this set is a beauty lover’s dream. It includes cozy slippers, a highlighter set, a handheld mirror, and more for the ultimate self-care experience.

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS MINI SPICE EYESHADOW PALETTE – $29.00 (ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS, ULTA, SEPHORA)

A makeup essential for everyday looks or glamorous nights out. Featuring warm and shimmery tones, this palette is a favorite among beauty lovers. Ellen Abraham says, “This timeless eyeshadow palette has everything you need for both natural and bold styles.”

DEARFOAMS EZ FEET SCUFF SLIPPER – $37.99 (WALMART)

After a long day, her feet will thank her for these ultra-cozy slippers. Made with 100% Australian sheepskin lining and plush cushioning, they provide ultimate comfort and warmth.

THE COMFY ORIGINAL OVERSIZED MICROFIBER & SHERPA WEARABLE BLANKET – $41.99 (AMAZON), $49.99 (QVC), $54.99

For someone who’s always cold, this wearable blanket is a game-changer. It’s oversized, ultra-soft, and perfect for lounging around the house—or even staying cozy outdoors.

BALA BANGLES – $55.00 (AMAZON, TARGET)

These stylish, adjustable weights add extra resistance to workouts, whether worn on wrists or ankles. A favorite among fitness enthusiasts, Bala Bangles are perfect for elevating her cardio sessions.

SAHIRA JEWELRY DESIGN DARIA HOOPS – $58.00 (SAHIRA)

A timeless jewelry piece, these tarnish-free gold hoops are a perfect addition to her accessory collection. Simple yet stylish, they’ll complement any outfit effortlessly.

ARTIS FINI COSMETIC BRUSH – $65.00 (HSN)

If she’s looking to upgrade her makeup tools, this premium blending brush is a must-have. Shop TODAY editor Rebecca Brown says, “I’d heard so much about Artis brushes—I tried it, and it’s hands down the best blending tool I own.”

SWEEJAR STORE PORCELAIN TEA SET – BRITISH ROYAL SERIES – $69.99 (AMAZON), $75.99

For lovers of historical dramas and elegant tea parties, this stunning tea set includes a teapot, teacups, saucers, a sugar bowl, a cream pitcher, and a stainless-steel strainer. Perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and conversation.

STILOSA ESPRESSO MACHINE BY DE’LONGHI – $75.99 (TARGET), $83.99, $99.95 (QVC)

A coffee lover’s dream! This compact yet powerful espresso machine makes barista-quality coffee at home. Senior Partnership Editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil says, “There’s truly no better way to start my day.”

RENÉE ROULEAU TRIPLE BERRY SMOOTHING PEEL – $88.50 (RENÉE ROULEAU)

This antioxidant-rich peel helps brighten and even skin tone, making it a skincare essential. “I use this peel weekly, and it has transformed my skin,” says Ellen Abraham.

VERA BRADLEY WEEKENDER TRAVEL BAG – $101.25 (VERA BRADLEY), $135.00

Spacious, stylish, and durable, this quilted weekender bag is perfect for quick getaways. Made of nylon, it’s lightweight yet sturdy—ideal for frequent travelers.

AERANGIS DISCOVERY JOURNEY GIFT SET – $110.00 (AERANGIS, ETSY)

If one candle isn’t enough, this set offers three signature scents, a wick trimmer, and a scent story card for a luxurious aromatherapy experience.

NEW YORK TIMES CUSTOM BIRTHDAY BOOK – $125.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)

A thoughtful keepsake, this book compiles The New York Times front pages from every year since her birth—perfect for history buffs and nostalgic moments.

HATCH RESTORE SMART SLEEP ASSISTANT – $169.99 (HATCH)

For the woman who needs better sleep, this all-in-one device combines a sound machine, sunrise alarm, smart light, and meditation app to create the ultimate nighttime routine.

LILYSILK TRIMMED SILK WOMEN’S LONG-SLEEVE PAJAMA SET – $185.00 (LILYSILK)

Made from 100% grade 22 Momme Charmeuse silk, this ultra-luxurious pajama set is perfect for beauty sleep in style.

OSTRICHPILLOW GO NECK PILLOW – $69.00 (OSTRICHPILLOW, AMAZON)

Ideal for frequent travelers, this memory foam neck pillow offers 360-degree support for restful sleep—even on the most turbulent flights.

PERSONALIZED BOURBON BARREL FLIGHT WITH GLASSES – $85.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)

For whiskey lovers and entertainers, this handcrafted bourbon barrel flight comes with four tasting glasses—perfect for a refined home bar setup.

EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG² – $121.99 (AMAZON), $127.99 (TARGET), $149.95 (QVC)

No more cold coffee! This smart mug keeps drinks at the perfect temperature for hours. One happy customer shared, “It truly keeps my beverage at the same set temperature long enough for me to enjoy every last drop at my own pace!”

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GERMAN RHUBARB CAKE WITH STREUSEL AND PUDDING

German Rhubarb Cake with Streusel and Vanilla Pudding is a beloved classic, combining tart rhubarb with a buttery streusel topping and rich homemade vanilla pudding made from real vanilla bean seeds. With rhubarb season in full swing, I’m excited to share this traditional German dessert, a favorite enjoyed by many across Germany!

EQUIPMENT

  • 26 cm (10-inch) springform pan or cake tin with a removable base
  • Parchment paper

INGREDIENTS

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

  • 250 g (2 cups + 1 tbsp / 8.8 oz) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 65 g (about 1/3 cup / 2.3 oz) sugar
  • 125 g (about ½ cup / 4.4 oz) soft butter
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp vanilla sugar or 1 tsp vanilla extract (if using vanilla extract, add 1 tbsp extra sugar)

For the Filling:

  • 550 g (1.2 lbs / 3 ½ cups) rhubarb stalks, washed, peeled (if needed), and sliced
  • 200 g (7 ½ oz) Schmand (can substitute with sour cream, crème fraîche, or cream cheese)
  • 400 ml (13.5 fl. oz / 1 2/3 cups) milk
  • 40 g (⅓ cup / 1.4 oz) cornstarch (cornflour)
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • Seeds from 1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 3 tbsp vanilla sugar, omitting regular sugar if using)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare the Pan:
    • Line the bottom of a 26 cm (10-inch) springform pan (or cake tin with a removable base) with parchment paper.
    • Grease the sides with butter.
  • Make the Dough:
    • In a bowl, combine the egg, sugar, butter, flour, and baking powder.
    • Mix by hand, using a stand mixer, or a hand mixer with dough hooks until a firm dough forms.
    • Divide the dough into two portions: one-third (1/3) and two-thirds (2/3).
  • Form the Base:
    • Take the larger portion (2/3) and crumble it evenly into the prepared pan.
    • With floured hands, press the dough firmly into the bottom, creating a slightly raised edge along the sides.
    • Set the remaining dough aside for later.
  • Prepare the Rhubarb:
    • Mix the vanilla seeds with sugar.
    • Add ½ tbsp of this vanilla sugar mixture to the rhubarb and toss to coat.
  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Set the oven to 180°C (356°F) with upper and lower heat.
    • If using convection bake, set it to 160°C (320°F).
  • Make the Vanilla Pudding:
    • In a small pot or saucepan, combine the milk, remaining vanilla sugar, and cornstarch.
    • Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
    • Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more sugar.
    • Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
    • Stir in the Schmand (or substitute) until fully combined.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    • Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cake base.
    • Scatter the rhubarb pieces over the pudding layer.
    • Crumble the remaining dough evenly on top.
  • Bake:
    • Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
    • Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely before serving.

Hint: For the best flavor, let the cake rest overnight before serving—it tastes even better the next day! However, it’s still delicious if enjoyed fresh from the oven.