This copycat Starbucks pumpkin spice latte recipe is ready in six minutes, which makes it quicker than most visits to Starbucks.

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk

½ tablespoon pumpkin spice powder

5 tablespoons superfine sugar

½ tablespoon instant coffee granules

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

4 tablespoons pumpkin puree

Optional Ingredients

Whipped cream, for topping

Directions

Place a saucepan on the stovetop and add the whole milk, pumpkin spice powder, superfine sugar, instant coffee granules, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree.

Turn the stovetop dial to medium and heat for 5 minutes.

Stir the contents of the saucepan with a whisk to ensure that all of the ingredients have dissolved.

Pour the latte into two glasses, top them with whipped cream, and sprinkle on some pumpkin spice powder to finish.

Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories per Serving 286 | Total Fat 8.2 g | Saturated Fat 4.7 g | Trans Fat 0.0 | Cholesterol 24.4 mg | Total Carbohydrates 45.9 g | Dietary Fiber 1.1 g | Total Sugars 43.5 g | Sodium 107.9 mg |  Protein 8.2 g|

-From: https://www.mashed.com/597941/copycat-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte-recipe/

Get cozy with Xocolatl, an authentic Oaxaca Mexican hot chocolate made with real chocolate. It's the ultimate comforting treat! Day Of The Dead-Dia De Los Muertos

Equipment

saucepan

molinillo, an immersion blender, or a whisk

Ingredients

2 cups milk

4 ounces bittersweet chocolate such as Ghirardelli 

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 tablespoons almond meal  or finely ground almonds

2 tablespoons  sugar  more or less to taste

Instructions

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar - heat until simmering, but don't let the milk boil.

Lower the heat, add the almond meal and chopped chocolate, and whisk gently until the chocolate is completely melted and blended. Give it a taste to check for sweetness and spiciness.

For a smooth and frothy consistency, blend the mixture with a molinillo, a whisk, or an immersion blender.

Pour the Xocolatl directly into mugs. Serve hot (*scroll up to see my serving suggestions).

Notes

Chop your chocolate finely so that it melts evenly.

 If you're using milk chocolate, avoid sugar, as the result will be too sweet.

 If your drink is too sweet, add a pinch of salt to cut the sweetness.

 Don't substitute ground cinnamon for cinnamon sticks because the drink isn't simmered long enough for the sticks to release their flavor. Use the sticks as garnish and for stirring.

For a quick version, use Mexican chocolate disks, like Ibarra, Abuelita, or Mayordomo.

If you're using chocolate disks, you will only need milk or water - it already contains all the other ingredients - but what's the fun in that?

You don't have to froth Xocolatl, but it's traditionally done using molinillo (*scroll up for directions on how to use it). You can also froth it with an immersion blender, frother wand, or a whisk.

Storage:

Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up up 4 days.

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, or in a microwave.

Nutrition

Calories: 618kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 99mg | Potassium: 693mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 48g | Vitamin A: 425IU | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 370mg | Iron: 4mg

Author: Jas

-From: https://www.all-thats-jas.com/oaxacan-hot-chocolate/

Mexican Hot Chocolate History:

Chocolate has a long historical connection to the dead in Mexico. The Mayans used it to help escort people into the afterlife. When you offered chocolate to the dead, the Mayans thought it would travel with the soul and usher in rebirth. Not only was it believed to provide a link from the living world to the afterlife, but it was enjoyed by mourners of the deceased (via Huff Post).

According to Huff Post, families may leave Mexican hot chocolate out for children for Día de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels), which takes place the day before Día de los Muertos. Then, they will drink it again on the Day of the Dead to honor their adult loved ones. Drinking Mexican hot chocolate is especially customary as a part of the evening watch at the cemetery. Some people even pour hot chocolate into the graves.

While Mexican hot chocolate is popular throughout cooler months of the year, it's especially prominent during holiday celebrations like the Day of the Dead. The difference between Mexican hot chocolate and the hot chocolate we drink in the U.S. relates to the type of chocolate in it (often Mexican chocolate) and the addition of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (via Big 7 Travel).

Read More: https://www.mashed.com/1074703/traditional-foods-to-try-for-day-of-the-dead/

These Key Lime Pie Bars are sweet and tart and totally irresistible! Made with the perfect graham cracker crust, a creamy, zesty filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar & lime zest, they’re the perfect cool and refreshing dessert for summer.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

6 tablespoons salted butter melted

⅓ cup granulated sugar

Key Lime Filling

14 ounces sweetened condensed milk 1 can

5 egg yolks

½ cup key lime juice

2 tablespoons key lime zest

Topping

powdered sugar optional

2 tablespoons key lime and/or lemon zest optional

Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Spray an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with cooking spray and line with parchment paper.

Combine graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar in a small bowl and stir until combined.

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs,6 tablespoons salted butter,⅓ cup granulated sugar

Press the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and press down firmly. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it in.

Bake the graham cracker crust for 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Key Lime Filling

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Whisk the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice and zest together in a medium bowl.

14 ounces sweetened condensed milk,5 egg yolks,½ cup key lime juice,2 tablespoons key lime zest

Pour over cooled crust and bake for 25 minutes. Let the bars chill before serving.

Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with additional zest if desired. Cut into bars, serve and enjoy!

powdered sugar,2 tablespoons key lime and/or lemon zest

Storage Information Notes

Refrigeration: Wrap the bars tightly with plastic wrap, or store them in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to seven days. 

Freezing: The bars can be frozen for up to two months in an airtight, freezer-safe ziplock bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 124mg | Potassium: 121mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 285IU | Vitamin C: 2.9mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 0.5mg

Author: Trish - Mom On Timeout

-From: https://www.momontimeout.com/irresistible-key-lime-pie-bars/

The Best Key Lime Pie recipe EVER! Tart and sweet and incredibly easy, this Key Lime Pie is sure to be a family favorite! A delicious graham cracker crust filled to the brim with an incredibly creamy filling that is just so quick to make! You won’t be able to stop at just one slice!  If you are in a hurry, and I mean, a BIG HURRY, I would perhaps allow you to use a store bought pie crust and a can of whipped cream. This pie would still be heavenly. No doubt. (Edited to add: I made the crust in the video but as we were running out of time, I used a can of whipped cream in the video below. Works in a pinch!)

Ingredients

Graham cracker crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/3 cup granulated sugar

6 tbsp butter melted

Key Lime Filling

28 oz sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup light sour cream

3/4 cup key lime juice

zest from 2 regular limes or 4 key limes

Whipped Cream Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Graham cracker crust

Preheat oven to 375F.

Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter in a small bowl. Press the crumb mixture into an 8" - 9.5" pie pan. Bake for 7 minutes. Cool for at least 30 minutes.

Key Lime Filling

Preheat oven to 350F

Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, and lime zest in a medium bowl. Pour into prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 10 minutes.

Let pie cool slightly before chilling. Chill for at least 3 hours.

Whipped Cream Topping

Beat heavy cream and sugar together in a mixer until stiff peaks form. Beat in vanilla. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the cooled pie. Top with additional lime zest if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 517kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 262mg | Potassium: 359mg | Sugar: 58g | Vitamin A: 810IU | Vitamin C: 2.3mg | Calcium: 269mg | Iron: 0.7mg

Prep Time10 minutes | Cook Time17 minutes | Total Time27 minutes | Servings10 servings

AuthorTrish - Mom On Timeout

-From: https://www.momontimeout.com/best-key-lime-pie-recipe/

Creamy vanilla yogurt, ripe berries, and crunchy granola clusters are layered in an easy, grab-and-go jar.

Serves: 4, Makes: 4, Prep Time: 8 minutes to 10 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla regular or Greek whole-milk or reduced-fat yogurt, divided

2 cups store-bought or homemade granola, divided

2 cups fresh fruit, such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries, divided

Honey or maple syrup (optional)

A bowl of creamy yogurt topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit is a morning staple, but lately I’ve been ditching the bowl and building my breakfast for on-the-go eating. In this easy recipe, creamy vanilla yogurt, ripe berries, and crunchy granola clusters are layered parfait-style in glass jars or cups, ensuring every bite is brimming with flavor, color, and texture. Here’s how to make a simple fruit and yogurt parfait.

Why You’ll Love It: 

It’s the easiest breakfast, dessert, or snack. A yogurt parfait is an incredibly easy breakfast (or dessert!) made by alternating layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit in a jar or cup.

You can customize it any way you like. Use your choice of yogurt, store-bought or homemade granola, and any combination of fresh fruit for your parfaits.

Key Ingredients in Yogurt Parfaits

Yogurt: I recommend starting with creamy vanilla yogurt when building these striated snacks, but the style (Greek or regular) and fat percentage are up to you.

Granola: Both store-bought and homemade granola work well in a yogurt parfait. Choose one that has a good mix of bigger clusters and smaller crumbles so that there are sweet and crunchy oats in every bite.

Fruit: You can use any combination of fresh fruit, such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries.

Honey or maple syrup (optional): A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can be added as a finishing touch.

How to Make Yogurt Parfaits

Build the parfaits in jars or glasses. Spoon yogurt into the bottom of each one. Top each with some granola and fruit. Repeat layering the remaining yogurt, granola, and fruit. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

What’s the Best Yogurt for Parfaits?

Greek vs. regular: Greek yogurt is thicker than regular yogurt, which helps create clean lines between parfait layers. Since it has less moisture, Greek yogurt also won’t soften granola as quickly as regular yogurt if you’re making the jars in advance.

Full-fat vs. reduced fat: Whole-milk yogurts are usually more filling, so use that variety if you’re looking for a breakfast that will keep you full until lunchtime.

Helpful Tips

Meal prep. Planning to meal prep the parfaits? Use granola with big clusters, as it will take longer for the moisture from the fruit and yogurt to seep in and soften it.

Add-ins. Dried fruit and nuts adds an extra layer of texture and flavor without adding more to your prep time.

Build the parfaits in 4 (12- to 16-ounce) jars or glasses: Spoon 1/4 cup vanilla yogurt into the bottom of each one. Top each with 1/4 cup of the granola and 1/4 cup of the fruit. Repeat layering the remaining yogurt, granola, and fruit. Drizzle the top of each with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Recipe Notes

Make ahead: The parfaits can be assembled, covered, and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance. The granola will soften to a chewy consistency.

-From: https://www.thekitchn.com/yogurt-parfait-recipe-23270538#post-recipe-318820008

 Roasted Garlic & Creamy Potato Soup with Seared Mushroom

How to Make Candy Apples Recipe

Ingredients and Materials:

• 3 cups sugar

• 1/2 cup corn syrup

• 1 cup water

• White and pink gel/food colouring

• Rock candy (   • How to Make Rock Candy (No Bake Recipe) fr...  )

• Pink, white food/gel colouring (http://amzn.to/2dbCRuB)

• Pink sprinkles 

• Apples

• Wooden apple sticks

Candy Apples Procedure:

1. Wash, dry and remove stems from apples. Insert a wooden apple stick into the top of the apple.

2. Place sugar, corn syrup and water into a saucepan and heat on medium high until mixture reaches between 250F-300F. 

3. Remove sugar from heat and stir in white colouring, then pink colouring. 

4. Turn the pot slightly to the side, and twirl apple in the hot liquid. 

5. Once apple is fully coated in sugar, place it onto a piece of parchment paper, or on a silicone mat. Allow to harden. Repeat for additional apples.  

How to Make Glitter Jolly Rancher Apples Candy Apples 

Ingredients and Materials:

• 50 Jolly Ranchers (single colour)

• Edible glitter (   • How to Make Edible Glitter 3 Different Way...  )

• Pink sprinkles 

• Apples

• Wooden apple sticks

Candy Apples Procedure:

1. Wash, dry and remove stems from apples. Insert a wooden apple stick into the top of the apple.

2. Preheat oven to 350F. Unwrap Jolly Ranchers and place into a cake pan, or oven safe bowl. Place into oven for 15 minutes, or until candy has liquefied. 

3. Remove pan from oven, and pour glitter into the candy. Stir with a spatula and return pan to the oven for 5 more minutes. 

4. Remove the pan from the oven again, turn the pan slightly to the side, and twirl apple in the hot liquid. 

5. Once apple is fully coated in sugar, place it onto a piece of parchment paper, or on a silicone mat. Allow to harden. Repeat for additional apples.

See Video Below:

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3d2G8uTMRA

A fun and festive treat with colorful stripes.

Equipment

Saucepan For cooking the candy coating

Candy thermometer To monitor the candy's temperature

Baking Sheet To cool the apples

Ingredients

Apples & Sticks

6 medium apples washed, dried, stems removed

6 lollipop sticks or paper straws

Candy Coating

2 cups sugar

0.5 cup light corn syrup

0.5 cup water

0.5 teaspoon clear vanilla extract

1 Gel food coloring red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple.

Instructions

Insert lollipop sticks into the bottom of each apple.

In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.

Bring the mixture to a boil, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Divide the candy into separate bowls. Add a different color of gel food coloring to each bowl, stirring until evenly distributed.

Dip each apple into the different colored candy coatings, creating stripes. Let excess drip off.

Place the apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely.

Notes

For best results, use firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji. Allow apples to cool completely before serving to prevent sticking.

Prep Time 20minutes mins

Cook Time 20minutes mins

Servings 6 apples

Calories 250 kcal

-From: https://tastywithlara.com/deliciously-festive-striped-candy-apples/

 Cotton Candy Swirl Glow-in-the-Dark Candy Apples – A Magical Treat!

Author: Freya Allen Total Time: 25 minutes Yield: 6 candy apples 1x Diet: Vegetarian

These Cotton Candy Swirl Glow-in-the-Dark Candy Apples are a fun, mesmerizing treat perfect for Halloween, parties, and themed events!

Ingredients

6 medium apples

2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

1/2 cup water

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp neon food coloring (pink, blue, or purple)

1/4 tsp tonic water (for glow effect)

6 wooden sticks

Instructions

Wash and dry apples, insert wooden sticks.

In a saucepan, heat sugar, corn syrup, and water until boiling.

Add vanilla, food coloring, and tonic water, then heat to 300°F.

Dip apples in the candy coating and swirl for a cotton candy effect.

Let apples cool on parchment paper before serving.

Notes

Use tonic water to create the glow-in-the-dark effect under black light.

Work quickly when dipping apples to prevent hardening.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Tips for perfect glow in the dark candy apples:

Use a candy thermometer: Once the candy reaches the right tempurature, you must dip the apples fast before the mixture ardens.

Work quickly: Once the candy reaches the right temperature, you must dip the apples fast before the mixture hardens.

Experiment with colors: Use neon food dyes for a brighter and more vibrant swirl effect.

Store properly: Keep the apples in a cool, dry place to prevent the candy from becoming sticky.

Variations & Customization Ideas:

1. Different Flavors

Add cotton candy extract or bubblegum flavoring for an even sweeter taste.

infuse with citrus zest for a tangy kick.

2. Extra Decorations

Sprinkle edible glitter or sanding sugar before candy sets.

Drizzle with white, dark, or other colored chocolate for added contrast.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 appleCalories: 230Sugar: 50gSodium: 10mgFat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gCarbohydrates: 58gFiber: 4gProtein: 0gCholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://www.skinytaste.net/cotton-candy-swirl-glow-in-the-dark-candy-apples-a-magical-treat/

 

Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples Halloween Recipe

Prepare to cast your own spell in the kitchen with these Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples! With their glistening, mysterious coating and deep black-purple swirls, they’re as hauntingly beautiful as they are delicious. A crisp apple center cloaked in crackly, spiced candy shell makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re looking to impress at a Halloween bash or simply treat yourself to something thrilling, Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples are the dramatic centerpiece you never knew you needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples lies in the simplicity of the ingredients, each one bringing something magical to the mix. The apples provide a fresh, tart contrast to the sweet, spiced shell, while the food colorings create that spellbinding swirl. Here’s what you’ll need to conjure them up:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose tart, firm apples for the perfect balance and a sturdy bite beneath the candy shell.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: The backbone of your shiny candy coating, creating the signature snap as you bite in.
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup: This helps prevent crystallization and keeps your candy coating glossy and workable.
• 1/2 cup water: Necessary for dissolving your sugar evenly and ensuring a smooth, even candy.
• 1/2 teaspoon black gel food coloring: The star of the show, giving these apples their glamorous, inky finish.
• 1/4 teaspoon purple gel food coloring: Swirled in for a pop of eerie color and extra visual drama.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm depth to the candy coating, perfectly rounding out the flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract (optional): For a spiced twist that makes each bite unforgettable.
• Candy apple sticks: Essential for dipping, serving, and (most importantly) enjoying your apples without sticky fingers!

How to Make Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by giving your apples a good wash and dry. To help the candy adhere (and to remove any pesky wax), plunge each apple into boiling water for a few seconds, then dry them completely. This quick spa treatment ensures your candy coating will cling tight instead of slipping off.

Step 2: Insert the Sticks

Grab your candy apple sticks and insert one firmly into the center of each apple, pushing about halfway through. This step is both practical and fun—like mounting jeweled orbs onto their scepters, getting them ready for their grand appearance!

Step 3: Make the Candy Coating

Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Set the heat to medium and stir gently, watching as the sugar dissolves and your potion becomes clear. This is an important step, as undissolved sugar can lead to a grainy coating; smoothness is key for a flawless finish!

Step 4: Boil to Hard-Crack Stage

Once your sugar is melted, crank up the heat to medium-high. Stop stirring and let the mixture boil. Clip your candy thermometer to the pan—it’s your trusty guide to that all-important 300°F (the hard-crack stage). Resist the urge to stir; just watch as the bubbles work their magic.

Step 5: Stir in Color and Flavor

When the candy mixture hits 300°F, remove it from the heat quickly. Working fast, add in the black and purple gel food colorings, vanilla, and (if you want a cozy, spicy note) the cinnamon extract. Stir until completely combined—watch those colors swirl together into an enchanting midnight hue!

Step 6: Dip and Swirl the Apples

Carefully dip each apple into the molten candy, swirling it as you lift and twirl to get even color and coverage. Let the excess drip off, then place each apple onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. The swirling motion not only coats but also creates those hypnotic streaks of purple among the black.

Step 7: Let Set and Enjoy

Once all your Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples are coated, let them cool at room temperature. As they set, the candy hardens into a glassy, mirror-like shell—perfect for both ogling and devouring. Now, they’re ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples

Garnishes

For an extra touch of wicked glamour, try drizzling set apples with melted black or white chocolate to give a marbled effect, or dust with edible glitter for an enchanted vibe. You can also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the surface while the candy coating is still warm for that addictive salty contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair your Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples with a platter of caramel popcorn or rich dark chocolate brownies to balance out the tartness. For a lighter option, a fresh fruit platter with grapes and berries works beautifully, keeping the Halloween mystique alive while lightening up the spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Showcase your Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples on a cake stand filled with dry ice for an utterly dramatic, fog-shrouded reveal. Or, bundle apples in cellophane with a black satin ribbon for party favors that look straight out of a storybook. They’re also a fantastic centerpiece piled high on a midnight-hued platter, surrounded by twinkle lights or scattered purple rose petals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (a rarity!), store your Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep them separated so they don’t stick together, and avoid humid spots to keep the candy shell crisp. They should last about 2-3 days without losing that wonderful crunch.

Freezing

Freezing Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples is not recommended. The candy coating can crack or sweat when thawed, leading to a sticky mess and loss of that perfect, glassy finish.

Reheating

These apples are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature, as reheating will soften or melt the candy shell and diminish the magic. If the coating becomes a little tacky on humid days, let them sit uncovered in a cool, dry spot until the surface regains its snap.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are traditional choices because of their tartness and firmness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples as well. Just pick apples that are fresh and very firm for the best results.

Is gel food coloring essential for the swirl effect?

Yes, gel food coloring is strongly recommended for Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples. It provides deep, vivid color without watering down your candy mixture, which is crucial for that bold, mesmerizing finish.

Can I add other flavors to the candy coating?

Definitely! The recipe suggests vanilla and cinnamon, but you can play around with extracts like almond, anise, or even orange for a unique twist. Just add extracts at the same stage as the recipe indicates for a custom flavor profile.

How do I prevent bubbles or drips in the candy coating?

Make sure your apples are completely clean and dry before coating. Bubbles often form when moisture is trapped under the candy layer. Also, allow excess candy to drip off for a smooth, even finish—twirling the apple slowly as you lift it from the pot helps achieve that flawless look.

What’s the best way to create a marbled effect in the swirl?

After dipping your apple in the black candy mixture, quickly drizzle a bit of extra purple (or even white) melted candy or chocolate over the top, then gently swirl with a toothpick or the stick. The result is those Instagram-worthy marbled Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples that steal the show.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to impress, treat your guests, or just have some kitchen fun, Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples are your golden (or should I say, dark and mysterious) ticket. Gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and dive in—these candy apples are sure to be the talk of any table. Enjoy spinning up a little magic!

-From: https://cookedbysarah.com/black-poison-swirl-candy-apples-recipe/

 Lavender Lemonade

Ingredients:

1 pint water

1 oz lavender flowers (wt.)

8 oz sugar (wt.)

Juice of 4 lemons

Purple Food Coloring

Directions:

Pour boiling water over the lavender flowers.

Allow to infuse for about 20 minutes. 

Then add sugar and lemon juice, and chill. 

Store in the 'fridge.

To make up, mix about 1 part of the syrup to 4 parts water. 

Serve with ice.

Recipe From: http://www.kitchenbos.com/

Photo From: Google Images

Stawberry Mead Recipe

How to Make Mead (and What the Heck is it??)

You may have heard some whispers and rumblings about mead lately, as how to make mead has become a bit of a hot topic. But, what is it, anyway? In its simplest form, it’s a fermented alcohol drink made with honey and water, also sometimes called “honey wine” or melomel.

Some historians claim that mead is the oldest form of alcohol created by humans, dating back thousands of years. If people back then could figure out how to make this delicious drink, then we certainly can now, and it doesn’t have to be difficult.

Small Batch Mead Recipe

The best way to start is on a small scale, and a gallon batch of mead is the perfect size for beginners. This mead recipe features fresh strawberries, but you can easily substitute your favorite fresh fruit. Say, blackberries. 

You can also use foraged items like linden flowers or blended wildflowers.

Ingredients

⦁ Honey — You’ll need about a quart of honey. This is the ingredient that feeds the fermentation process. It may seem like a lot of honey, but the sweetness will be negligible in the finished product.

⦁ Champagne yeast — This is a specialized ingredient, for sure. You can also use wine making yeast. You can order it here. 

⦁ Fresh strawberries — This is what gives this strawberry mead its fruity flavor. You can feel free to substitute other berries here for a different flavor.

⦁ Raisins — Opt for organic raisins. 

Equipment Needed for a One-Gallon Mead Recipe

If you start looking up how to make mead, you will notice that a lot of the mead recipes seem complicated, requiring fancy equipment. Maybe after a few tries you will want to expand your skills to that level, but this one gallon mead recipe sticks to the basics.

⦁ A one-gallon jug with a narrow neck for brewing. I prefer to use glass for this, as I don’t care for plastic, but a plastic jug will work in a pinch.

⦁ An airlock with a rubber stopper. You can alternatively use a balloon with a pinhole that is attached to the top of the jug. The gasses will be able to escape through the pinhole without letting any oxygen in. (You can also get the glass jug with airlock together for a better price).

⦁ A stainless steel pot

⦁ A big spoon

⦁ A funnel, bigger is better

⦁ A thermometer. Just a regular meat thermometer will do.

⦁ Sanitizer, I like One Step brand as it is easy to use and nontoxic. It is very important that you sanitize everything that will be used prior to brewing.

As soon as you add any fruit to mead, it is then called a “melomel,” so that is technically what this recipe is. Feel free to use any fruit you might have on hand, or leave the fruit out completely and just do a straight mead if you’d like. The process is the same either way.

 🌿☕ Lavender Milk Tea Bliss ☕🌿

Drift into a moment of pure relaxation with this soothing Lavender Milk Tea. Infused with delicate floral notes and creamy goodness, this drink is like a warm hug for your soul. Perfect for cozy afternoons or winding down before bed! 🌙✨

Ingredients:

🌿 Dried culinary lavender (1 tsp)

🍵 Black tea (1 tea bag or 1 tsp loose leaf)

🥛 Steamed milk (1 cup)

🍯 Honey or sugar (to taste)

💧 Hot water (½ cup)

Instructions:

Start by steeping the lavender and black tea in hot water for about 5 minutes to extract their delicate flavors. Strain and discard the lavender buds, then stir in a touch of honey or sugar for sweetness. Gently steam your milk until frothy and warm, then pour it over the tea mixture. Give it a gentle stir and enjoy the creamy, floral delight! 🌸☕

✨ Sip, relax, and let the lavender calm your senses! ✨

 🌙 Lavender Moon Milk 🌙

Unwind with a dreamy Lavender Moon Milk—a calming blend of warm milk, gentle lavender, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a peaceful, restful evening.

Ingredients

1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

½ tsp dried culinary lavender (or a few drops lavender extract)

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Gently heat milk in a saucepan with lavender (or stir in lavender extract after heating).

Stir in honey or maple syrup until fully dissolved.

Avoid boiling—just let it warm and steep 2–3 minutes.

Strain out lavender buds if using dried flowers.

Pour into a mug. Optionally, dust the top with cinnamon or decorate with a single lavender bud.

 🍵🌹 ROSE CARDAMOM CHAI LATTE 🌹🍵

Floral, spiced, and so romantic! 🌹✨ This Rose Cardamom Chai Latte is the perfect drink for a cozy Friday night. Share with your tea-loving bestie!

Recipe:

1 chai tea bag

1 cup milk

1/2 tsp rose water

1/4 tsp cardamom

1 tsp honey

Instructions:

Steep chai in hot water. Steam milk with rose water, cardamom, and honey. Combine and enjoy!