• Homemade conditioner bars_1

    Easy Homemade Conditioner Bars

    Jump to Recipe

    Tired of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances in your hair products? Homemade conditioner bars offer a gentle, natural alternative. These simple bars are packed with nourishing ingredients to soften and strengthen your hair.


    After a bit of experimentation, we've perfected a recipe for solid conditioner bars that moisturize and repair damaged hair.


    Years ago, I embarked on a journey to create a more natural hair care routine. My first step was a DIY dry shampoo spray, and since then, I've been dedicated to replacing traditional hair products with natural alternatives.


    What is a Hair Conditioner Bar?

    A hair conditioner bar is a solid, bar-shaped version of a traditional liquid hair conditioner. They're gaining popularity due to their travel-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. 


    Making homemade conditioner bars is a breeze, and they'll last you a long time! A little bit goes a long way, making them much more economical than liquid conditioners.


    Why make your own hair conditioner bars?

    Let's be honest, it would be much easier to buy natural, organic hair care products. But the truth is, it can be quite expensive, and even products labeled "natural" often contain hidden chemicals.


    This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Get my full disclosure HERE.

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    What You Will Need

    INSTRUCTIONS

    To create your conditioner bars, begin by melting cocoa butter, coconut oil, and emulsifying wax in a double boiler or a glass bowl over simmering water. Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Then, incorporate the remaining ingredients, stirring well. Pour the mixture into silicone molds and allow them to harden for 2-3 days before use.


    How to use conditioner bars

    To use your conditioner bar, rub it between your hands to warm it up and apply it directly to your hair. For curly or thick hair, use a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute the product. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water. For extra detangling, follow up with a DIY hair detangler spray.


    Why I chose/love these ingredients

    Each ingredient in this recipe is essential for creating a long-lasting, effective hair conditioner bar.


    Cocoa Butter

    Cocoa butter is not only delicious-smelling but also incredibly beneficial for both skin and hair. Its moisturizing properties make it an excellent hair conditioner, adding shine, preventing split ends, and softening hair. Plus, any leftover cocoa butter can be used to create homemade chocolates!


    Coconut Oil

    Coconut oil, a true superfood, is a staple in many households. Its moisturizing properties make it a fantastic ingredient for hair care. Coconut oil can help combat dandruff, dry scalp, split ends, and hair breakage. It's also a key ingredient in my coconut oil hair mask, a perfect treat for hair that needs extra TLC.


    Essential Oils (fragrance)

    Essential oils are a fantastic way to add a delightful fragrance to your conditioner. You can experiment with various combinations, but I personally love the refreshing citrus scents of tangerine and lemon. Feel free to try this blend or create your own unique combination.

    Choosing the fragrance

    Wild Forest for men

    • 6 drops sandalwood
    • 3 drops rosemary
    • 3 drops lemongrass

    Floral Fresh for women

    • 5 drops lavender
    • 3 drops of clary sage
    • 2 drops of wild orange
    • 2 drops lime

    Gentle and Calm

    • 3 drops lavender
    • 1 drop of Roman Chamomile

    Why you will love these conditioner bars:

    Homemade conditioner bars offer a multitude of benefits. They have a remarkably long shelf life, often lasting for years with minimal cost. Made with eco-friendly, plant-derived ingredients, they have a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, their versatility allows for customization. If you find the need to adjust the formula, simply re-melt the bars, make your changes, and re-mold them. Their compact size makes them ideal for travel, ensuring your hair receives optimal care, even on the go. Don't forget to pack a DIY shampoo bar to complete your travel hair care routine.


    Faqs/Tips

    • Longevity: These conditioner bars can last between 60-100 washes.
    • Frequency: Perfect for those who wash their hair once or twice a week.
    • Shelf Life: When stored in a cool, dry place, these bars can last around 2 years.
    • Ingredient Substitutions: Cocoa butter can be substituted with shea or mango butter, with shea butter resulting in a softer bar.
    • Storage Considerations: Coconut oil melts at temperatures above 76°F, so store the bars in a cool place like the fridge.
    • Best Usage: Ideal for wet hair, not recommended as a leave-in conditioner for dry hair.
    • Hardening Tip: If the bars are still soft, place them in the fridge for a few hours to harden.


    Wrapping up

    As you transition from conventional hair products to natural alternatives, it's important to be patient. Your hair may need some time to adjust to the new routine. During this period, using a DIY dry shampoo and a homemade natural shampoo can be helpful. This updated recipe addresses concerns about greasy hair, and with a little patience and persistence, you'll enjoy the benefits of healthy, natural hair. Thank you for reading, and be sure to follow us for more natural hair care tips and recipes. And if you love natural hair care products, be sure to follow us on social media for more popular products!

    Homemade conditioner bars that work great on all hair types.


    Prep Time: 5mins 

    Active Time: 20mins

    Total Time: 25mins

    Yield: 2 long lasting bars


    Equipment

    • ▢ Double Boiler
    • ▢ Silicone molds

    Ingredients

    • ▢ ½ cup of cocoa butter
    • ▢ ¼ cup coconut oil
    • ▢ 1 teaspoon of emulsifying wax
    • ▢ 1 teaspoon of vitamin B5
    • ▢ 10 drops of vitamin E oil
    • ▢ 8 drops of tangerine essential oil
    • ▢ 4 drops of lemon essential oil

    Instructions

    • Melt the Base: Combine cocoa butter, coconut oil, and emulsifying wax in a double boiler or a glass bowl over simmering water.
    • Cool Slightly: Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly.
    • Add Ingredients: Incorporate the remaining ingredients, stirring well.
    • Mold the Bars: Pour the mixture into silicone molds.

    Notes

    The conditioner bars can be removed from the molds once they've hardened. However, for optimal results, it's best to wait 48 hours to ensure complete hardening and a longer-lasting product. In warmer climates, storing the bars in the refrigerator can help prevent melting.


    This recipe is for your own viewing pleasure and is not meant for healing purposes. Readers must perform their own research and tests before making any recipe.


    *** © ourhomely.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.

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  • Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe for Beginners

    This homemade pizza dough recipe is great for beginners and yields a soft, chewy crust. Skip delivery because you need just 6 ingredients!


    Hey there, pizza lover! Ready to ditch the delivery guy and make your own pizza magic? This super simple dough recipe is perfect for beginners. It's soft, chewy, and has that perfect crispy edge. Trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser! All you need are 6 basic ingredients to get started. Let's get cooking


    Prep Time 2 hours/15 minutes

    Cook Time 15 minutes

    Total Time 2 hours/30 minutes


    Bread Dough for Beginners

    This is a simple dough recipe for those just starting out. You'll only need 6 essential ingredients, and a little cornmeal for the pan (optional). Most of the work is done while the dough rises. You might question... why bother when you can just buy frozen pizza dough? Frozen dough is definitely convenient, but homemade crust has a flavor and texture that can't be matched by store-bought options. Plus, you can use this dough for cheesy breadsticks as well!


    If you've ever made homemade bagels or sandwich bread, you'll find pizza dough even easier to make as it requires fewer steps and less time.

    Overview: Ingredients


    Every pizza journey starts with a few key ingredients: flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil. Let's dive into the specific ingredients that make my homemade pizza crust so delicious. The complete recipe is provided below.

    • Yeast: I use Platinum Yeast from Red Star, a reliable instant yeast that strengthens the dough and simplifies the process. One standard packet (2¼ teaspoons) is sufficient.
    • Water: Warm water, around 100-110°F, is ideal for activating the yeast and speeding up rise time. I've found that 1⅓ cups is the perfect amount for this recipe.
    • Flour: Unbleached all-purpose flour is the best choice for this recipe. For a chewier crust, substitute bread flour. If you prefer a healthier option, try my whole wheat pizza dough recipe.
    • Oil: A couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil adds flavor to the dough. Brushing the dough with olive oil before adding toppings helps prevent a soggy crust.
    • Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the dough.
    • Sugar: One tablespoon of sugar activates the yeast and tenderizes the dough, especially when combined with olive oil.
    • Cornmeal: While not a dough ingredient, cornmeal is essential for dusting the pizza pan. It adds a touch of flavor and crispiness to the crust, similar to many popular delivery pizzas.

    Optional Flavor Boost: For added flavor, consider incorporating 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and Italian seasoning blend into the flour mixture.

    Lean Dough for a Crusty Pizza


    Pizza dough, like other artisanal breads like bagels, focaccia, and sourdough, relies on a lean dough. This means it doesn't contain eggs or butter, resulting in a crisp, crusty exterior. While I recommend adding a touch of olive oil for flavor and a slightly softer interior, the lean dough is the key to a classic pizza experience.

    In contrast, rich doughs, used for items like dinner rolls, cinnamon rolls, and breadsticks, incorporate fat to create a softer, more indulgent texture.

    How to Make Easy Pizza Dough

    1. Mix the Dough: Combine the dough ingredients by hand or using a mixer. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the recipe below.
    2. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer. I prefer the hands-on approach. If you're new to working with yeast dough, check out my guide on how to knead dough.
    3. Rise the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover tightly, and let it rise for about 90 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
    4. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into two portions and roll each into a 12-inch circle. Cover and let rest while you prepare your toppings.
    5. Top the Pizza: Add your favorite pizza toppings.
    6. Bake the Pizza: Bake the pizza at a high temperature for approximately 15 minutes.

    Involving Young Bakers

    Young bakers can have fun and contribute to the pizza-making process. Let them help press the dough into a circle and add their favorite toppings. Who wouldn't love a pizza with a pepperoni smiley face?


    Pizza Pan Recommendations

    I highly recommend these pizza pans (affiliate links):

    • [Link to Pizza Pan 1]
    • [Link to Pizza Pan 2]

    If you prefer baking on a pizza stone, I've had great results with this one:

    • [Link to Pizza Stone]

    If you don't have a pizza pan, a regular baking sheet can be used. Grease it with olive oil, sprinkle with cornmeal as instructed below, and press the dough into the desired shape. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch. For a thinner crust, stretch the dough further.


    Different Uses for Homemade Pizza Dough(Versatile)

    Your homemade pizza dough can be used for a variety of delicious dishes:

    • Classic Pizza: Top with your favorite ingredients, such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
    • Stuffed Crust Pizza: Fill the crust with cheese or other fillings.
    • Pesto Pizza: Spread pesto sauce on the dough before adding toppings.
    • Ham and Cheese Pockets: Fold the dough over the filling and bake.
    • Pepperoni Pizza Rolls: Roll up small pieces of dough with pepperoni and cheese.
    • Stromboli: Fill the dough with various ingredients and roll it up.
    • Spinach Artichoke White Pizza: Top with a creamy white sauce, spinach, and artichoke hearts.
    • BBQ Chicken Pizza: Spread BBQ sauce on the dough and add grilled chicken and other toppings.
    • Garlic Knots: Twist the dough into knots and bake with garlic butter.

    Unique Pizza Ideas

    • Margherita Pizza: Top with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil.
    • Apple Gorgonzola Pizza: Combine mozzarella, gorgonzola, apple slices, and rosemary.

    Let your imagination run wild and experiment with different toppings to create your own unique pizza masterpieces.

    Description

    Follow these simple steps to create a thick, crispy, and chewy pizza crust at home. This recipe yields enough dough for two 12-inch pizzas. You can freeze half of the dough for future use, making a total of approximately 2 pounds of dough.


    Ingredients

    • 1 and 1/3 cups (320ml) warm water (between 100-110°F, 38-43°C)
    • 2 and 1/4 teaspoons (7g) Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)*
    • 1 Tablespoon (13g) granulated sugar
    • 2 Tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, plus more for pan and brushing on dough
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 3 and 1/2 cups (about 450g) unbleached all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more for hands and surface
    • sprinkle of cornmeal for dusting the pan

    Instructions

    1. Activate the Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast. (If you don't have a stand mixer, use a large bowl and mix by hand with a spoon or spatula.)
    2. Add Dry Ingredients: Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed for 2 minutes.
    3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 5 minutes in the mixer or by hand on a lightly floured surface. If the dough is too sticky, add a teaspoon of flour at a time. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky. To check if it's kneaded enough, perform the windowpane test: Stretch a small piece of dough; if it forms a thin, translucent film without tearing, it's ready.
    4. First Rise: Grease a large bowl with oil, place the dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap or a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
    5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
    6. Shape the Pizza: Punch down the risen dough, divide it in half, and shape each half into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. If the dough shrinks back, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before continuing.
    7. Prepare the Pizza: Lightly grease or oil a baking sheet or pizza pan and sprinkle with cornmeal. Place the shaped dough on the prepared pan, creating a lip around the edge. Cover and let it rest while you prepare your toppings.
    8. Top and Bake: Poke holes in the dough to prevent bubbling. Brush the top with olive oil, add your desired toppings, and bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
    9. Serve and Store: Slice and serve the hot pizza immediately. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Baked pizza slices can be frozen up to 3 months.

    Freezing:

    1. Prepare the Dough: After dividing the risen dough into two balls in step 5 of the recipe, lightly coat each ball with oil.
    2. Package: Place each dough ball in a separate zip-top bag, squeezing out the air.
    3. Freeze: Store the sealed bags in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    Thawing:

    1. Refrigerate: Transfer the frozen dough ball to the refrigerator and thaw for 8-12 hours.
    2. Rest: Remove the thawed dough from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before proceeding to step 5 of the recipe.

    *** © ourhomely.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.

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  • Homemade Tomato Soup (Fresh Tomatoes)

    Homemade Tomato Soup (Fresh Tomatoes)

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    Ah, homemade tomato soup. A classic comfort food, elevated to pure bliss with a few simple tricks. This isn't just a soup; it's a symphony of flavors, a velvety dream that'll have you licking your bowl clean.


    Prep Time 10 minutes

    Cook Time 30 minutes

    Total Time 40 minutes


    Nothing beats the taste of freshly made tomato soup. Skip the canned stuff and embrace the pure, vibrant flavors of ripe, juicy tomatoes. This recipe is a breeze to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated soirée.

    Tomato Selection: A Flavorful Affair

    The key to a truly exceptional tomato soup lies in the quality of your tomatoes. While any ripe tomato will do, I prefer heirloom varieties for their rich, complex flavors. If you're short on time or fresh tomatoes aren't in season, canned crushed tomatoes can be a great substitute. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid a watery soup.


    Roasting for Maximum Flavor

    Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor. I like to add a splash of red bell pepper to the roasting pan for a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color. You could also use carrots, but I prefer the sweetness of the pepper.


    Tomato to Pound Ratio: A Rough Guide

    The weight of tomatoes can vary depending on the variety, but here's a general estimate:

    • 1 lb of tomatoes ≈ 4-5 medium tomatoes

    Remember, this is just a ballpark figure. The beauty of cooking is flexibility, so don't stress too much about exact measurements.

    Let's get cooking!

    1 lb of tomatoes is approximately (remember you need 3lbs for this recipe):

    2 large tomatoes

    • 3 medium tomatoes
    • 4 Roma tomatoes
    • 2 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
    • 20 cherry tomatoes

    How to Make Tomato Soup

    1. Place tomatoes and peppers on a pan with olive oil and seasonings. Roast until you see a bit of char.
    2. Bring broth to a boil and add roasted tomatoes.
    3. Blend using a hand blender until smooth & creamy.
    4. Top with parmesan cheese or a drizzle of heavy cream if you prefer.

    Taming Tart Tomatoes: A Chef's Tips

    If your tomato soup is a bit too puckery, fear not! There are a few simple tricks to balance the acidity and elevate the flavor.

    Creamy Smoothness:

    • A Dollop of Cream: While not strictly necessary, a splash of heavy cream can soften the sharp edges of a tart tomato soup.
    • Coconut Milk Magic: For a dairy-free option, a drizzle of unsweetened coconut milk can add a creamy richness without overpowering the tomato flavor.

    Sweet Balance:

    • A Pinch of Sugar: A tiny amount of sugar can work wonders in neutralizing acidity.
    • Carrot Infusion: Roasting a carrot alongside the tomatoes adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of earthy flavor.

    Rich Indulgence:

    • Buttery Goodness: A pat of butter can add a luxurious mouthfeel and a hint of savory richness.

    The Perfect Pairings:

    • Classic Comfort: A grilled cheese sandwich is the quintessential companion to tomato soup.
    • Crunchy Crunch: Croutons sprinkled with Parmesan cheese add a satisfying textural contrast.

    So, the next time your tomato soup turns out a little too tart, remember these tips and transform it into a delicious, comforting bowl of goodness.

    Homemade Tomato Soup (Fresh Tomatoes)

    Homemade Tomato Soup (Fresh Tomatoes)

    Recipe

     3 pounds ripe tomatoes
    - 4 cloves garlic peeled
    - ½ onion diced
    - ½ red bell pepper diced
    - 2 tablespoons olive oil
    - salt and black pepper to taste
    - ½ teaspoon dried basil
    - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
    - 2 cups chicken broth
    - 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, oregano
    - ¼ cup parmesan cheese optional garnish
    - ½ cup heavy whipping cream optional
    - thinly sliced fresh basil leaves for serving, optional


    Instructions 

    Preheat oven to 450°F. Chop your tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them onto a baking sheet with garlic, onion, bell pepper, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite dried herbs. Roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Then, broil for a few minutes to add a touch of smoky char.


    Bring your chicken broth to a boil. Add the roasted goodness and fresh herbs. Blend with a hand blender until smooth. If your tomatoes are on the tart side, a splash of heavy cream can add a touch of richness. Taste the soup after blending and decide if it needs a little cream.


    Pour the soup into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese and croutons.


    *** © ourhomely.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.

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  • Quick Homemade Mac and Cheese

    Craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this homemade mac and cheese recipe! This classic dish is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.


    Prep Time: 10 minutes

    Cook Time: 20 minutes 

    Total Time: 30 minutes 


    Why Homemade is Better

    While boxed mac and cheese may be convenient, nothing quite like the taste of homemade mac and cheese. You can control the ingredients by making your own mac and cheese, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful meal. Plus, it's a fun and rewarding cooking experience for kids of all ages.

    Here's How To Make It:

    1. Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
    2. To make the roux, Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste.
    3. Create the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk the milk into the roux, cooking until the sauce thickens. Stir in the Dijon mustard and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
    4. Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately.

    What's the point of a roux? If you've made mac and cheese before, you've likely encountered the word "roux." It's just a fancy term for combining fat (in this case, butter) with flour to thicken sauces.


    Here are a few tips for the best mac and cheese:

    • To keep the heat low, cook it over medium-low heat to prevent the sauce from burning.
    • Cook the flour: To remove the raw flour taste, cook the roux until it smells nutty.
    • Shred your cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 pound macaroni
    • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 3 cups milk
    • 3 cups cheddar cheese
    • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
    • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (optional)

    Instructions

    1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
    2. Make the Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour and cook until golden brown.
    3. Create the Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
    4. Add Cheese: Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
    5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat.
    6. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese, breadcrumbs, or herbs.

    Indulge in this timeless comfort food and savor every bite.

    Elevate Your Mac and Cheese

    To take your mac and cheese to the next level, consider these delicious variations:

    • Truffle Mac and Cheese: Infuse the cheese sauce with truffle oil for an earthy, luxurious flavor.
    • Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
    • Spicy Mac and Cheese: Incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
    • Loaded Mac and Cheese: Top with breadcrumbs, additional cheese, and crispy onions for a decadent, indulgent treat.

    Serving suggestions:

    • This creamy mac and cheese is the perfect sidekick to your main course. For little ones, pair it with crunchy air-fried chicken nuggets or saucy BBQ ribs. Adults can indulge in a gourmet combo with sizzling cast iron ribeye steaks or crispy air-fried chicken thighs.

    Storing and reheating:

    Mac and cheese isn't just a delicious comfort food; it's also a fantastic meal prep option that reheats beautifully. Whether packing lunches for the week or preparing meals for busy weeknights, this cheesy delight is a versatile choice.


    Discover all the essential tips and tricks for storing and reheating your homemade mac and cheese. We've covered you, from freezing portions for later enjoyment to ensuring optimal reheating techniques.


    Storing and Reheating

    Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat or the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.

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