Spooky Snacks and Sips for Halloween

Halloween night chills the air with anticipation, but it doesn't have to chill your taste buds! This year, conjure up a cauldron of culinary delights that are both wickedly fun and frightfully flavorful. From creepy crawly cocktails to spine-tingling snacks, let's transform your Halloween spread into a haunted haven for the senses.

Set the Stage:

Drape your table in cobweb-like cheesecloth, scatter plastic spiders amongst the treats, and dim the lights for an eerie ambiance. Flickering candles or orange string lights add an extra touch of spooky charm. Don't forget the spooky tunes! A playlist of monster mash-ups and Halloween classics will set the mood for a fang-tastic feast.

Be sure to click through the links to view the full recipes.

 Beetlejuice Buttercream Board by Fork to Spoon

This buttercream board is perfect for Halloween parties. Add cookies, pretzels, or whatever you would like to dip in buttercream to the border for a snack that packs a lot of variety into each bite.

Poison Apple Cocktails by Three Olives Branch

This apple cocktail is ghoulishly green but the fun doesn't stop there! It includes a test tube of cinnamon flavored ‘poison’ to add a dark kick. Who will be brave enough to add a poison shot to this drink on Halloween night?

Mexican Chocolate Skull Cakes by My Bueno Cookbook

These skull cakes are loaded with tasty Mexican chocolate for a snack to share that is spooky yet so sweet. Top them with blood red icing if you like or some berry jam!

Alien Brain Hemorrhage Shots by The Littlest Crumb

These shots are so much fun to assemble and slam with your friends. These are freaky, taste fantastic and are sure to make your guests feel just a little apprehensive about drinking them.

Death by Chocolate Cupcakes by Live to Sweet

These look like an average cupcake, so what is so scary about them? They are so good that you will be nothing short of horrified after the last cupcake has been enjoyed!

Bloody Bellinis by Garlic and Zest 

This recipe makes the best bellinis! Use a good champagne and fresh cherry juice to get a gorgeous, bloody effect that adds so much flavor to each sip.

Skull Pizzas by Kitchen at Hoskins

This recipe is a total scream! Slice this up for a spooky snack that is so easy to make and always gets a great reaction.

Incredible Hulk Cocktails by A Nerd Cooks

This drink is so much fun for Halloween, it is perfect for the Hulk to sip, but your friends will also love it! It is destined to be a smash at your party

Spooky Spider Dip by Two Healthy Kitchens

Use a favorite dip that always turns out thick, then dress it up with this idea. Pepper slices make the ultimate spider and this is one healthy snack no one can resist!

Elegant Yet Spooky Halloween Charcuterie by Sugar and Charm

This spread of snacks is perfect for a party. It is easy to assemble and with a few skeleton hands placed strategically, this is sure to send a shiver up your spine as you grab a nibble.

Smoking Halloween Punch by A Full Living

Add dry ice to this boozy punch for a fabulous smoking effect. This punch has rum, cranberry juice and apple cider to make a flavorful fall option that everyone will love.

Jack Skellington Dessert Board by A Country Girls Life

This dessert board has a great variety of treats to dip into Jack’s cute frosting face. Add an assortment of cookies, wafers and sweets that pair well with frosting.

Spiderweb Cocktails by Amanda’s Cooking

This spiderweb cocktail recipe is perfect for a Halloween party. It is not only tasty but it has the best web decoration on top of each drink.

Mummy Shortbread Cookies by Pass Me a Spoon

This mummy shortbread cookie is easy and perfect for a party. It is lightly sweet, so buttery and all dressed up in tasty frosting wrappings.

Purple People Eater Cocktails by Everyday Shortcuts

This vibrant purple cocktail is just the thing to make and serve your ghouls, goblins and guests on  Halloween night. Garnish with candy eyes for the complete effect.

Skull Charcuterie by Everyday Shortcuts

This idea makes the spookiest snack platter yet. Form a skull shape and add plenty of prosciutto for a meaty main offering that everyone will want to take a crack at.

Black Mojito by The Healthful Ideas

Give your next mojito night a freaky effect with this recipe. It has all of the flavor you crave with a creepy black look to it. Use activated charcoal for an easy way to spooky up your sips.

Remember, the key to a spooktacular Halloween spread is to have fun and unleash your creativity! With a little imagination, you can transform everyday ingredients into hauntingly delicious treats that will have your guests shrieking with delight (and maybe a little bit of fear). So gather your ingredients, put on your spookiest grin, and get ready to whip up a Halloween feast that will be remembered long after the last ghost has flown home.

Find more great Halloween ideas here:

Halloween Tree

Ghost Ornaments 

Pretzel Mummy Snacks

Strawberry Ghosts

Favorite Fall Cocktails

 As the leaves change color and the air gets crisp, there's something undeniably magical about fall. It's a season that begs for cozy nights in, warm blankets, and, of course, delicious comfort food and drinks. And what better way to embrace the autumnal spirit than with a selection of handcrafted cocktails that capture the essence of the season?

Forget the store-bought pumpkin spice lattes (although, there's no shame in those either!). This blog post is all about elevating your fall experience with a variety of cocktail recipes, each bursting with the rich flavors of the season. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, we have something for everyone.

Dive into Deliciousness:
We're not just talking about the classic pumpkin spice concoction. These recipes offer a spectrum of flavors, from the warm and comforting to the refreshingly tart. Make sure you click through the links to get the full recipes.

Fall Gin and Tonic by Gastronom 
Whiskey Blood Orange Smash by Saporito Kitchen
Honeycrisp Apple Cocktail by Mooshu Jenne
Fall Sangria by The Forked Spoon
S’mores Shots by Spabettie
Tootsie Roll Shots by The Short Order Cook
Autumn Harvest Sangria by Ann’s Entitled Life
Apple Cider Mimosa by Crayons and Cravings
Amaretto Apple Cider Cocktail by Who Needs a Cape
Ginger Peach Whiskey Cocktail by Snacks and Sips

While you are here, check out a few of my other favorite cocktail recipes.

Sour Apple Margaritas are just right for those unseasonably warm fall afternoons.
Hillbilly Moonshine Apple Cider is always a favorite! This is a must try this fall.

Unique and Tasty Jello Shots

 Life needs a little jiggle sometimes, wouldn't you agree? And what better way to add a playful bounce to your step (or your party!) than with a vibrant, delicious jello shot? These sweet treats are the perfect blend of fun and refreshment, guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone's face.

Whether you're a seasoned party host or a jello shot newbie, this post is your one-stop shop for inspiration. We've got recipes to tantalize every taste bud, from classic favorites to boozy twists that will knock your socks off (metaphorically, of course!).

Be sure to click through the links to find the recipes you want to try.

Strawberry Cream Jello Shots by Fun Money Mom

These boozy little jello shots are just the thing for a summer party.

Easy Vegan Jello Shots by Cooking on Caffeine

This recipe makes for vegan jello shots so everyone can join in on the fun!

Pina Colada Jello Shots by Fun Money Mom

Give your tastebuds a tropical trip with these pretty pina colada jello shots.

Green Apple Jello Shots by Easy Party Cocktails

These jello shots have so much green apple flavor! These are awesome for a fall bonfire party.

Lemonade Jello Shots by Kimspired DIY

Give summer vibes with these incredibly flavorful lemonade shots!

Butterbeer Jello Shots by Simplistically Living

Adult fans of Harry Potter are going to want to cast a spell on you to get this recipe for butterbeer jello shots.

Peach Jello Shots by Organized Island

Pack a whole lot of peachy flavors into one tiny little cup with this recipe!

Champagne Jello Shots by Sugar+Soul

These champagne jello shots are just the thing for a celebration or New Years Eve.

Caramel Apple Jello Shots by Persnickety Plates

Having a fall gathering? Then you need to make a double batch of these caramel apple shots!

Cotton Candy Jello Shots by Princess Pinky Girl

These cotton candy jello shots are just so much boozy fun that you pretty much have to share them with your pals!

Strawberry Cheesecake Jello Shots by Cheesecake It Is

If you love cheesecake, then save this recipe for a boozy treat that feels so indulgent.

Creamsicle Jello Shots by Centsless Meals

These jello shots taste just like a summer staple with a kick! You will love these!

Rainbow Jello Shots by Balancing Motherhood

Layers of color make for a rainbow jello shot that is just the thing to brighten up  a rainy evening!

Layered Jello Shots by Surf and Sunshine

Layer these jello shots for a fun and pretty effect! These are going to be a hit at your next party.

Keto Jello Shots by Mom Foodie

This recipe makes for keto jello shots that are a guilt free way to let loose!

• Always use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Clearly label your jello shots, especially if you're serving them to guests who may not be familiar with their contents.
• Enjoy responsibly! Pace yourself and know your limits.

So grab your blender, dust off your shot glasses, and get ready to jiggle your way to jello shot fun! With these recipes as inspiration, you're sure to create sweet memories that will last a lifetime (or at least until the last shot is gone!).

Find more tasty cocktail recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Hill Billy Cider Cocktails

Bomb Pop Cocktails

5 Unexpected Activities for a Young Mom’s Birthday Celebration

 A new mom has a lot more to think about than her upcoming birthday. This is where supportive partners, friends, and family can step in by throwing a new mom-friendly celebration. But what type of birthday celebration is suitable for a new mother? Well, a lot of that depends on the birthday girl and her level of energy. You need to assess the situation and plan accordingly. However, there are a few can’t-miss options that are worthy of consideration. Let’s look at five ways to celebrate a young mother’s birthday.

Photo credit: Pixaby

Photo Shoot

If you want to create some great memories, then a mother-baby photo shoot is an ideal theme for a new mom’s birthday celebration. You can have the photographer come to her, or you can take her to a local studio. Those photos will always remind her of the joys of early motherhood. On top of that, she will appreciate not having to over-exert herself which will come in handy should you decide to make a dinner reservation at her favourite restaurant.

A Trip to The Spa

If there’s one thing every new mom can use, it’s a spa day. This will give her a chance to feel and look rejuvenated. Make sure she gets the works. That includes a thorough massage, manicure, pedicure, and a facial. You can add on a round of aromatherapy too. This is guaranteed to relieve her stress and leave her feeling more relaxed than she has been in a long time.

It’s a good idea to keep the after-party on the tame side. You neither want to reverse the effects of spa treatment nor be loud enough to disturb a sleeping infant. A bit of cake and some relaxing tea accompanied by a trivia game or charades should be the right speed.

Casino Party

This is definitely an unusual way of celebration by throwing a casino-themed birthday party for the new mom. This may involve hiring dealers and renting gaming tables, but it sets the stage for a most memorable birthday celebration. It can be a casual event, or you can go all out by bringing cocktail servers and having everyone dress up in their favourite casino attire. Heck, you could even hire an entertainer like a magician or comedian.

Of course, the blackjack, roulette, and other casino games would be the star attraction. If the party winds down and the guests have left, but you still want to keep the gifts coming, you can easily continue the celebration with online casinos. Platforms, like those at https://bstcasinos.com/birthday-casino-bonuses/, often roll out special bonuses for birthdays.

The top tip from us here: do everything for fun and don’t commit funds you’re not prepared to lose, otherwise, the celebration could turn into something rather unpleasant.

Cooking Class

A proper diet is particularly essential for mothers and babies alike. So, why not blend some nutritional guidance with learning a few new healthy and tasty recipes? You could hire a pro to come over to show everyone how to whip up some fast, nutritious, and delicious dishes. Not only is this entertaining and educational at the same time, but you shouldn’t have to worry about anyone leaving hungry. Just make sure that you don’t leave the birthday girl with a sink full of pots and pans.

Go for a Picnic    

What could be better than enjoying an afternoon in the fresh air and surrounded by family and friends? If you throw in a few baskets of food, some outdoor party games, and favourable weather, then you have the perfect scenario for a new mother’s birthday celebration. Like a few other activities mentioned here, a birthday picnic doesn’t require vast amounts of energy. It’s quite relaxing. 

In fact, this activity is good not just for celebrating birthdays. As an example, it is often enjoyed by Jack Hamilton, a professional casino analyst with his own website here: https://bstcasinos.com/author/jack-hamilton/. He frequently organises picnics for his family and loves to take a break from work in this way.

Conclusion

Everyone appreciates it when someone puts in the time and effort to plan a birthday party for them. This is especially true for young moms with newborns. The thing is, you need to plan it wisely. If the activity is too intense and the atmosphere is loud, then it might be too much for both the mother and the baby. Conversely, you don’t want the party to be boring. The key is finding the right balance and adapting the festivities to the new mother’s needs. After all, it’s her special day.

Best Winter Cocktails With Vodka

 Winter may be the coldest time of year, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your love of cocktails. In fact, there are many delicious and warming winter cocktails that are perfect for enjoying on a cold night. This blog post features a collection of the best winter cocktails made with vodka, from martinis to more creative concoctions. So gather your ingredients and get ready to toast to the winter season!

This collection has something for everyone included. Be sure to click through the links to view the full recipe and to pin the recipes for later.

Sparkling Pomegranate Martini by Burrata and Bubbles

Cranberry Moscow Mule by Spoonful of Flavor

Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini by Thrifty Jinxy

Winterberry Spiced Cocktail by Served From Scratch

Pumpkin Spice Martini by The Art of Food and Wine

Easy Peppermint Schnapps Cocktail by Natural Deets

Pomegranate  Ginger Beer Cocktails by Vindulge

Apple Cider Martini by Easy Party Cocktails

Pear Tree Cocktails by Three Olives Branch

Pumpkin Spice Latte by Cocktails with Class

Sparkling Cranberry Vodka by Sugar + Soul

Dirty Martini by Splash of Taste

Vegan White Russians by Home Cooked Roots

Caramel Apple Cider Mimosa by Gastronom

Apple Pie a la Mode Cocktail by xoxo Bella

Here are some tips for making the best cocktails with vodka.

• Use fresh ingredients. This is especially important for the citrus juices and herbs that are often used in vodka cocktails. Fresh ingredients will give your cocktails a brighter flavor and make them more appealing visually.
• Chill your glasses. This will help to keep your cocktails cold and refreshing. You can chill your glasses in the refrigerator or freezer for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Use high-quality vodka. This will make a big difference in the taste of your cocktails. Look for a vodka that is made from wheat or rye, as these vodkas tend to have a cleaner flavor.
• Don't over-mix your cocktails. Over-mixing can dilute the flavor of your cocktails and make them watery. Give your cocktails a gentle stir until the ingredients are combined.
• Garnish your cocktails. Garnishes can add flavor, visual appeal, and aroma to your cocktails. Some popular garnishes for vodka cocktails include citrus slices, herbs, and edible flowers.

I would love to hear which of these recipes you want to try first. I think I would love the apple pie a la mode cocktail.

You can find some of my other favorite drink recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Hillbilly Cider Cocktails

Bomb Pop Cocktails

Gorgeous Cranberry Cocktails: The Perfect Holiday Drink

Cranberries are a classic holiday ingredient, and for good reason. They're tart, sweet, and festive, and they make for delicious cocktails. Whether you're looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy by the fire or a boozy punch to serve at your holiday party, there's a cranberry cocktail out there for you. Here are a few of our favorite cranberry cocktail recipes:

Cranberry Gin Fizz by Cup of Zest

Chai Cranberry Bourbon Smash by Burrata and Bubbles

Cranberry Christmas Punch by Curry Trail

Smoked Orange and Cranberry Cocktails by Stef’s Eats and Sweets

Cranberry Orange Margaritas by Cooking with Curls

Cranberry Gin Cocktail by Baking Ginger

Christmas Morning Mimosas by Persnickety Plates

Poinsettia Mimosa by Limoncello Kitchen

Woo Woo Cocktail by Mom Foodie

Pineapple Cranberry Mezcal Margaritas by Gastronom

Apple Cranberry Mules by Made with Happy

Cranberry Hard Ginger Ale by Easy Party Cocktails

Cranberry Old Fashioned by Three Olives Branch

Cranberry Tequila Spritzers by Sustain My Cooking Habit

Cranberry Mojito Punch by Sugar + Soul

These are just a few of the many delicious cranberry cocktail recipes out there. So next time you're looking for a festive drink to enjoy, reach for some cranberries and get mixing!

Here are some additional tips for making the perfect cranberry cocktail:

• Use fresh cranberries whenever possible. They'll add a brighter flavor and color to your drink.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Cranberry juice pairs well with a variety of spirits, so have fun and try different combinations.
• Garnish your cocktails with fresh cranberries, citrus slices, or herbs for a festive touch.

With these tips in mind, you're sure to make delicious cranberry cocktails that everyone will love.

Find more favorite cocktail recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Haunting Halloween Cocktails