11 Kickstarter Campaigns You Need to Know About This Month

If you’re vowing to make 2015 the year you turn your kick-ass idea into reality, grab some inspiration from these inventors who are generating a ton of buzz through their Kickstarter campaigns. From a girl power coloring book to a documentary promoting some much needed social change, these projects definitely deserve your attention. Scope ’em out, fund your faves and then get to planning your own big idea.

1. Men’s Overalls That Actually Look Good: While Kylie Jenner and Rihanna have already convinced us that overalls are a chic look for women, this Kickstarter campaign is legit enough to get men on the bandwagon too. Featuring tailored cuts and high-quality fabric, it’ll be hard for men to turn down a fashion look this flattering.

2. The Perfect Smartphone Accessory for Work: See your text messages as soon as you get them, without your coworkers ever hearing your phone vibrate. This smart phone dock, which also works for tablets, iPhones and Android devices, props your phone up right by your monitor. Hey, your texts are just as important as your emails.

3. A Living Christmas Ornament: This Christmas ornament has an actual living tree inside it! Okay, so they’re really small trees, but we think they’re still pretty awesome. Hanging a tree on your tree? That’s so meta.

4. A Coloring Book for Modern Princesses: Almost every little girl wants to be a princess, but that doesn’t mean she can’t also go on fun adventures, like sky diving or opening up art galleries. Being a #girlboss is so much cooler than being a damsel in distress.

5. A Dance Class for Orphans: Help launch an amazing opportunity for orphans in India by funding Movement Exchange. The dance teacher heading this project empowers youth and encourages civic engagement through dance classes. After successfully launching a similar program in Panama, she’s ready to transform lives in India as well.

6. Keyboard Waffle Maker: Let’s hope this project gets funded ASAP, because it’s a pretty sweet gift for your favorite tech geek. This clever waffle iron will have you wishing for sticky, syrup-covered keys.

7. Razor Stand and Toothbrush Holder: Some ideas are so smart, they leave you wondering how you didn’t come up with it first. Behold the toothbrush holder, which simply stands your toothbrush up. No more haphazardly leaning it next to the sink or in a cup with slimy residue. The stand is also compatible with your razor, so it can join the sink party too.

8. A Birchbox-Esque Kit for Kids: Beauty addicts have Birchbox and fashion addicts have Le Tote. If this project gets funded, now kids can have Bitsbox. Each month, the subscription box promises to deliver a new coding project for kids to work on. Since its inventors know kids are just as tablet and phone obsessed as we are, the projects are linked to apps which run on real devices.

9. The Ultimate Silk Blouse: Silk shirts are amazing, except for one thing: They’re often sheer and can accidentally show off your bra (and your sweat stains… yuck!). This new silk blouse uses a thicker fabric and promises to solve that whole see-through problem all together. Sheer genius, right? (Sorry, we had to.)

10. A Snowflake Toy for Adults: Graduate student Douglas Liang created Snow Link as a way for adults to put down their tech devices and explore their creative sides. His goal is for family members or friends to play together, using the sheer panels to create a beautifully crafted snowflake. It’s a game and an art piece in one.

11. I Am What’s Underneath: Created by a fab mother-daughter duo, this Kickstarter campaign aims to fund StyleLikeU, a documentary that redefines beauty and explores new ways of self-empowerment. Full of raw and honest interviews of men and women who strip down and talk about their struggles with body image, this moving film will inspire anyone who has ever felt left out of the beauty world.

Would you fund any of these ideas? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

I’ve been living in blissful ice cream heaven for the past month. And though I could easily scamper on over to my neighborhood gelato spot or stock up on summer’s best frozen treats, I’ve been lazily crafting my own inside – courtesy of the Ninja Creami.

If you’ve been literally anywhere on the internet recently, you know that the Creami Craze has truly taken over. Everyone from food-fluencers to gym girlies have been basking in its glory – sharing recipes left and right for ice creams, sorbets, and even frozen cocktails. I admittedly thought the appliance was way too good to be true, and resumed my scrolling in favor of FoodTok and ‘fit checks for a while.

I didn’t realize the sheer magic this thing was capable of until I was thoughtfully gifted one to simply try out. Turns out, the influencers *aren’t* lying about its greatness. From my experience, here’s 5 surefire reasons why you need the Ninja Creami in your kitchen.

Reason 1: It's faster than fast.

The Creami gave me that instant gratification I crave from all cooking projects, no matter what I was making. The paddle tears through frozen-solid liquids in a matter of seconds, resulting in a dangerously thick, velvety ice cream consistency. I’m still in awe (and honestly, a tad confused) about how this thing works – because a blender could definitely *not* do what the Creami does. Perhaps it’s the mystery that keeps me going back.

Reason 2: It's hilariously easy to use.

Because all you have to do to form a fantastically frozen treat is freeze it first and press a few buttons. No, really, a literal monkey could operate the Ninja Creami. There were several times since I got the Creami that my ice cream hankering got so strong, I felt a borderline *astral* draw towards my nearest Sonic – but thankfully didn’t need to lift a finger. I remembered the dismally forgotten Creami bowl in the back of my freezer. From there, all it took was a few minutes to achieve better-than-Sonic-level ice cream. Boom.

Reason 3: It saved me a significant amount on my ice cream bill.

This means the demented dessert demon that arises within me every night once Sweet Treat O’ Clock hits was suppressed from spending money anywhere ice cream is sold. I was able to use ingredients I already had at home to batch out my Creami creations – averaging around 3 servings per bowl. A bang for your buck *and* delicious as can be? You simply cannot deny the deal.

Related: Best Ice Cream Maker

Here are the recipes I’ve made so far, with prices for each ingredient included. I’ve also noted the cost per serving, accounting for the average of 3 servings a bowl. A *steal* rather than a deal, methinks!

  • Chocolate Ice Cream: 2 cups Chocolate Fairlife ($4.19 for a bottle, so 2 cups costs ~$1.29) + 2 tbsp Chocolate Jell-o Mix ($1.39 for a pack, so 2 tbsp costs ~$0.70) = $0.66 per serving
  • Mint Cookie Chocolate Ice Cream: Chocolate Fairlife ($4.19 for a bottle, so 2 cups costs ~$1.29) + 4 Mint Oreo Thins ($4.59 a box, so 4 cookies costs ~$0.35) = $0.55 per serving
  • Lite Horchata Ice Cream: 2 cups Dream Horchata ($4.17 for a carton, so 2 cups costs ~$2.08) = $0.69 per serving
  • Lite Horchata Ice Cream with Cookie Dough: 2 cups Dream Horchata ($4.17 for a carton, so 2 cups costs ~$2.08) + 2 pieces Sweet Loren’s Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough ($6.59 for a dozen, so 2 pieces costs ~$1.08) = $1.05 per serving
  • Dole Whip Dupe:Frozen Pineapple Chunks (I used half a bag, so ~ $1.40) + 1 cup Almond Breeze ($2.39 for a quart, so 1 cup costs ~$0.60) = $0.67 per serving

Reason 4: Healthy dessert has *never* been easier.

Social media has given us an endless stream of easy, high-protein, low-calorie Ninja Creami recipes to try out, so there’s no excuse to *not* make yummy desserts that are actually good for your health. If you’re paradoxical in nature like me (love to eat healthy, but have a serious sweet tooth), it’s time to hop on the Creami bandwagon. The first and foremost reason being this Cosmic Brownie Protein Ice Cream that has 42 grams of protein for only 297 calories. Mind = blown.

Reason 5: It's so customizable.

Image generated via StableDiffusion

Whether your cravings fluctuate from chocolatey to fruity, there’s a Creami recipe out there for you. I found each batch to lend itself to customization with the easy-peasy Mix-In button on the appliance. I added Oreos and cookie dough to my creations, but have plans to experiment with my go-to candies, M&M’s and Reese’s.

What are your most favorite Ninja Creami recipes? Let us know @BritandCo!

Header image via Ninja

Though Black Friday is traditionally the official start of the holiday shopping season, we argue that it’s been kicking since mid-October. We know, we know: it still feels extremely early to start thinking about the holidays, but they’ll be here before you know it! Plus, many brands and retailers are already promoting their holiday goodies with plenty of sales and discounts available right now.

If you’re ready to embark on your holiday shopping journey, but still need answers to questions like ‘when’s the best time to shop?’ and ‘where should I shop for gifts?’ and even ‘how the heck do I save money this season?’, you’ve come to the right place. Consider this your go-to guide for holiday shopping in 2024.

Scroll on for our best guidance on navigating this busy time of year and finding the best gifts possible!

When's the best time to do holiday shopping?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best time to do holiday shopping really all depends on your personal shopping goals. Do you want to get a jump on items you know will sell out soon? Do you want to save the most money possible? Do you want to focus on handmade, personalized gifts? These factors will undoubtedly influence your holiday shopping schedule.

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Shopping early can be advantageous for all of the aforementioned goals. A lot of retailers start promoting their holiday products early on, giving you ample time to snatch up that limited-time lip kit or fancy water bottle you’ve been eyeing way before the holidays.

Plus, some of the best deals for holiday shopping happen ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday – in 2023, Experian observed a surge in early spending in October, thanks to early discounts, a trend likely to continue in 2024.

Finally, shopping early can be especially helpful if your plan is to focus on handmade or personalized gifts, giving the artisan you buy from (or yourself, if you’re DIY-ing your gifts) plenty of time to craft the item with love and care.

Gallup reported in 2023 that one in four shoppers start shopping as early as September, a trend likely to continue in 2024 – so you might already be embarking on your shopping spree!

Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

If right now is just still too darn early for you to start holiday shopping, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the best times to shop since so many retailers offer their largest discounts of the entire year. Plus, the late November-early December timeline can feel a bit more appropriate for the gifting season opposed to late October-early November, when everyone’s still recovering from Halloween.

The only thing to consider during this time is the shipping timelines for the items you purchase – but most retailers will typically advise their specific shipping schedules, so you don’t risk your goodies arriving late.

Where should I shop for gifts?

Ron Lach / PEXELS

You have three main options when it comes to where to shop for holiday gifts: online, in-store, and via our amazing gift guides. Of course, each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Shopping in-store offers a tangible experience: the opportunity to hold specific items in your hands and gauge exactly what they’ll be like when you give them as a gift. The pitfall with shopping in-person is that it typically requires a commute and journeys through potentially very busy malls and shopping strips, which can add to the already-stressful holiday experience.

In-store shopping can be more physically exhausting, but it’s all about preference! Sometimes strolling through the stores that get all dolled up for Christmas is the best part of the season.

Andrea Piacquadio / PEXELS

Per Google, 65% of those planning to shop for the holidays say they will shop online more. Shopping for gifts online can be super helpful since you can centralize your findings in your browser’s bookmark tab or via virtual cart(s). Plus, shopping online can pose more opportunities for saving some money: lots of retailers typically offer discount codes for online users, especially if you sign up for their digital marketing channels (like email and text) and make a purchase.

Shopping online isn’t just shopping, either. The internet can be a stellar research tool to help you vet whether certain products are worth it, where they can be bought, and when they’ll be available. In fact, Google reported that more than half of U.S. holiday shoppers who went into a store last year say they looked up product reviews online and/or located an item in-store by checking it online.

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Last but not least, scrolling gift guides has to be our favorite place to shop for gifts – and not just because we write and publish them.

At their very core, gift guides help streamline the holiday shopping process, alleviating the stress that bubbles up when you’re wondering what the heck to shop for in the first place. Our gift guides are backed by real people, real experiences, and real opinions from our editorial team. We only promote products that we really love and believe in, oftentimes ones we’ve tested and reviewed ourselves.

We have gift guides for just about everyone on your list, with more on the way! Check ‘em out:

What are the best kinds of gifts to give?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best kinds of gifts to give are thoughtful gifts that consider the giftee’s interests, wants, and needs. These gifts can be sentimental, practical, or both simultaneously. What matters most in a gift is that it’ll be meaningful to them past just the holiday season, whether it’s helping them get through daily tasks, reminding them of a memorable trip or event, or giving them small doses of joy.

“Shoppers are increasingly looking for personalized and unique gifts that reflect the recipient's personality and interests,” says Mia Anderson, Owner of ChicSew. “With the rise of online shopping, many consumers are opting for curated gift boxes or experiences that add a special touch.”

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Gift boxes, personalized items, books of interest, self-care goodies, and even gift cards can all be thoughtful gifts depending on the recipient. If you have no clue what your giftee is into, it’s not a bad idea to ask them what they want the most!

“My idea of a great gift is something that is in tandem with the recipient's interest and offers something new to the person, be it learning a new skill, enjoying a calming activity, or simply spending quality time with the family,” says Alfred Christ, Sales Manager & Marketer at Robotime. “This season, we encourage shoppers to shift their focus on quality and the memories their gifts will create and not just merely material aspects.”

When is Black Friday?

Sora Shimazaki / PEXELS

Black Friday is always the Friday after Thanksgiving. This year, Black Friday lands on November 29.

When is Cyber Monday?

Kindel Media / PEXELS

Cyber Monday is typcally the Monday after Thanksgiving. This year, Cyber Monday will land on December 2. Oftentimes, retailers and brands extend their online offers through the week (coined Cyber Week) after the event. Salesforce reported that 67% of shoppers in 2024 plan on shopping during Cyber Week!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on our best 2024 gift guides, shopping advice, and all things holiday!

Unlike Ariel, true techies can never have enough gadgets and gizmos, whozits and whatzits galore. It's like an itch we just have to scratch. Technology continues to surprise us with new and innovative devices that help us live our best life — or just have fun. Looking to turn your home into a smart home? Trying to find the perfect gadget the entire family can benefit from? Need something cool to surprise your kids with that will keep them busy for hours? Well, stop looking! There's sure to be something right here for everyone on your list (including yourself). Check out these techie-loved products to charge up your gift-giving this holiday season.

Lenovo Smart Clock with Google Assistant ($80): Go beyond the traditional alarm clock with this Google assisted smart clock. Control the lights in your home, see the weather, check your calendar and get traffic updates before you leave your bed.

LifeFuels ($179): Get the nutrients you need when you need them with this smart water bottle. Inside the bottle are three pods that dispense vitamins and nutrients throughout the day with the touch of a button or swipe in the app.

Nintendo Switch ($300): Gaming is for all ages and the Nintendo Switch is a great system for hours of family fun.

VTech KidiBuzz G2 ($90): Your little doesn't have to play on your phone anymore, they can play 40+ learning games, listen to music and take photos on this interactive kid-friendly device.

Stash Portable Battery Bank ($30): Don't let the activities of the day drain you. Stay charged with this stylish portable battery bank.

Cinemood ($400): Experience movie magic wherever you go with Cinemood, a portable smart mini-projector. Tiny but mighty, this projector is kid-friendly and an investment in nights of family fun. It's also on Mariah Carey's must-have list so obviously, we must-have, too.

Echo Dot Kids Edition ($70): Designed with kids in mind, children can ask Alexa to call Grandma, tell them a story, play music and other kid-friendly actions.

Lockly Secure Pro ($299-$329): Upgrade your home security with this smart lock. Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa, this lock can be operated by voice, mobile app, access code, fingerprint, or traditional key.

PlayShifu Orboot ($50): Make screen time educational with one of Shifu's interactive toys that mix education and entertainment together like this one that teaches children about different countries and cultures around the world.

Acu Palm ($85): After typing, texting and holding things all day, your hands could use a little TLC. Acu Palm offers a heated compression massage that ranges from your fingers to your wrist to help your hands recover after working them to the bone.

House of Marley Exodus Anc ($250): These eco-friendly noise cancelling headphones carry a 28-hour battery life with active noise cancellation and 80 hours without. You'll be able to enjoy hours of music and entertainment without having to charge.

Luigi's Mansion 3 ($60): Kids will have fun zapping ghosts and beef up their problem-solving skills in the process.

Singing Machine Official Carpool Karaoke ($60): Turn road trips into concert tours with carpool karaoke.

Polaroid Mint Pocket Printer W/ Zink Zero Ink Technology & Built-In Bluetooth ($140): One of the biggest problems with some instant cameras is that the picture never comes out exactly the way you planned. With Polaroid's pocket printer, you can get instant prints of your fave photos from your cell phone; problem solved.

Scuf Vantage 2 ($170): Create your own unique gaming experience by using this fully customizable controller. The Vantage 2 can not only be customized visually by choosing one of the 60 designs available, but you can customize the weight, thumbstick sensitivity, and more.

Moodo Smart Home Fragrance Diffuser Bundle ($100): Load up four scents at a time to mix and match the aroma you need, when you need it, for your bedroom, living room, or office.

Boolean Box ($170): Watch as your child builds their very own computer.

Bluetooth Shower Speaker ($30): Shower karaoke anyone?

Tanoshi 2-in-1 Kids Computer ($190): This child's laptop/tablet combo comes with preloaded educational games and apps and parental controls so kids can have fun and parents don't have to worry about their cyber safety.

LED Fitness Data Smart Rope ($80): Track your jump count, calories burned and workout times with this smart rope. Stay motivated with training sessions and compete with your friends to stay motivated.

Pictionary Air ($20): Game night just got elevated. Pictionary Air is classic game with a tech upgrade. Draw in the air and see it on the TV, your phone, or both.

Indy($85): Zone out in these water-resistant earbuds by Skull Candy that are great for music and calls.

Schatzii Smart Cloth 10pk ($50): May your picture always be pristine with these smart cloths. You can use them on your glasses too.

C by GE Full Color Bulbs ($30): Make daily chores and homework fun by scheduling each with a different color using these smart light bulbs.

Disney Frozen 2 Coding Kit ($80): Use your child's love for Disney to get them started with coding.

Universal Grip Band Metallic Rose Gold ($15): Tired of your phone falling on your face? Use this multi-functional phone grip & stand. It's easy to apply and doesn't leave a sticky residue.

UBTECH JIMU Robot Mythical Series: Firebot Kit ($130): Your little builder will love spending hours building their own robot.

Network Case ($28): Use MyTagalongs' signature pink pouch to keep your chords in one place.

Adjustable Neck Smartphone Mount ($12): Go hands free while catching up on all your latest shows with this phone mount.

Wally Dual USB Wall Charger + Standard AC Outlet ($40): We all know the struggle of too many devices and not enough outlets. Charge all your devices at once with this dual wall charger that comes with two USB ports so you don't have to play the switching game anymore.

Legacybox ($60 and up): Transfer retro to digital with Legacybox. Send in your VHS tapes, film reels and photo prints, and have them digitized for a sentimental gift you can share with the whole family.

Upright GO 2 Posture Trainer ($100): This wearable reminder will train you to have better posture in no time.

GE Lighting 93100352 LED + Speaker ($43): Make your home sing with GE's bluetooth enabled smart bulbs with built in speakers.

Jammy Guitar + Detachable Frame ($450): Rock out wherever you happen to be with this digital guitar.

Lovebox Messenger ($100): Send a digital love note to your S.O. through an app and they display in this beech wood box. Watch your loved one light up when they receive a new message alert.

Hot Wheels id Smart Track Kit ($180): This ain't the same Hot Wheels you once knew. With the smart track, you can build, race, and beat in-app challenges. You can also build and beat more than 20 layout designs with 16 assorted track pieces.

InstaShiatsu Foot Massager with Air Compression & Heat ($200): Your piggies will get a kick out of this foot massager.

Tovala Gen 2 Smart Steam WiFi Countertop Oven ($300): The scan-to-cook technology on this countertop oven not only saves time but takes a lot of guess work out of cooking.

Tap Strap 2 Wearable Keyboard ($200): Control your smart devices with this single-handed all in one wearable keyboard.

Pocketalk ($300): Communicate with anyone with this two-way translator, great for everyday use and travel.

WS1 Immersive Wearable Speaker ($300): This wireless speaker rests on top of your shoulders and packs the same vibrations and full sounds of other bluetooth speakers to make you feel like you're actually inside the movie or front row at the concert.

Smoko Boba Tea AirPods Case ($15): Store your AirPods in a compact reminder of your fave drinks.

Wynd Plus Smart Portable Personal Air Purifier ($200): This compact purifier is great for night stands, desks or your suitcase to carry with you wherever you travel.

Arlo Video Doorbell ($149): Keep track of who comes and goes at your front door with this video doorbell that notifies you when motion is detected in front and receive a call when your doorbell is pressed. You can also keep watch over all of those Amazon packages that are left on your porch during the day.

Sony Digital Paper ($448): Go paperless by taking notes on this low glare screen with a texture that feels just like real paper.

Retractable Stay Positive Charging Cord ($30): Cute keychain + charging cord = winning.

Courant Catch 2 ($80): Charge all your devices at once with this multi-device wireless charging pad.

Adonit Note+ ($70): An alternative to the Apple pen, the Adonit Note+ allows for up to 10 hours of continuous note-taking or artistry along with programmable short cuts.

Sunpak Ultimate Vlogging Kit ($150): For the friend who has always wanted to start a vlog, gift them with a quality filming setup.

Side Trak ($300): Busy bees will appreciate this attachable portable dual screen that works with your laptop.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The holidays at Starbucks are creeping up on us, people! Peppermint Mocha season will return on November 7. If you’re a die-hard Starbucks fan, you know Red Cup Day is a whole holiday in itself – the frenzy for a free reusable cup is truly no joke. There’s even an entire website dedicated to counting down the madness! Even though there’s no official word on when Red Cup Day 2024 will be, there are several clues that cue us into the annual event. Scroll on for details!

What is Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day is Starbucks’ highly-awaited annual event that marks the start of holiday beverage season at the coffee chain. For one day only (and while supplies last), customers who order any of Starbucks’ holiday drinks will receive a reusable red cup that features a bespoke design for the respective year.

Starbucks

Here’s a list of all the drinks rumored to be available on the Starbucks holiday menu starting November 7:

  • Peppermint Mocha
  • Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha
  • Caramel Brûlée Latte
  • Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
  • Chestnut Praline Latte
  • Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew
  • Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

What do the red cups look like for 2024?

Starbucks

Starbucks hasn’t officially announced when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, let alone what the famed red cups will look like this go-around. The one obvious point is that the cups will be red! They’ll also likely feature some festive motifs that echo the holiday season. Last year’s red cups boasted playful white and green stars and ornament-like shapes.

Why should I participate in Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day = freebies, which can feel really rewarding if you’re really into receiving free goodies. Plus, it’s just a fun way to lean into the holiday spirit. The red reusable cup keeps giving beyond Red Cup Day, though! Every time you use the reusable cup for future Starbucks orders, you get a 10-cent discount as well as 25 bonus stars toward your Starbucks Rewards account to save up for more discounts on drinks, food, and merchandise.

When is Starbucks' Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Again, Starbucks hasn’t alerted us on when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, but based on previous Red Cup Days, we can infer it’ll land on the third Thursday of November. In 2022, Red Cup Day happened on November 17, and for 2023, it was November 16. The third Thursday of November in 2024 hits on November 21, so mark your calendars, everyone!

Additionally, check back here for official info as Red Cup Day approaches.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more food news!

This post has been updated.

It seems Thanksgiving is barely a week away by the time we start thinking about the menu. But while ovens all over the country will be working overtime this year, don't forget your secret weapon — the crock pot! Kitchen strategy is key when you're trying to factor various cook and prep times for both oven and stovetop dishes. There just never seems to be enough time (or counter space).

Whether you're already finalizing your menu for the day or are just in charge of a few side dishes, we've scoured the web and found 18 Thanksgiving crock pot recipes that are perfect for any gathering.

Creamed Corn

Damn Delicious

Cornis a standard side dish for most Thanksgiving meals, but this recipe is a total game-changer. Five simple ingredients go in your crock pot, and three hours later you’re greeted by corn that is so creamy and delicious, you’ll never be able to eat the canned stuff again.

Wheat Bread Stuffing

Recipe Runner

Free up some room in your oven and cook the stuffing right on the counter this year. Crusty whole wheat bread, celery, onions and chicken broth will have you going back for seconds. Once it’s cooked, turn the heat to low and it will be ready whenever you are.

Brussels Sprouts

Damn Delicious

These aren’t Grandma’s Brussels sprouts. Covered in a brown sugar balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, these sprouts will have you converted after just one bite.

Sweet Potatoes

The Magical Slow Cooker

This one takes minimal effort, but packs maximum flavor. Wash and dry your sweet potatoes before wrapping them in tinfoil and piling into the crock pot. Cook on high for six hours, and resist the urge to open the lid so the steam doesn’t escape. Serve with butter, brown sugar and mini marshmallows.

Apple Cider

Damn Delicious

Your guests are going to need something to sip on. Made 100% from scratch, this apple cider recipe will definitely steal the show: Combine apples, cinnamon sticks and spices and cover with water, and drink in the delicious smell while it simmers in the slow cooker.

Candied Sweet Potato Casserole

Creme de la Crumb

Okay, so this does require a little oven time, but it’ll be the last thing you heat up before you can dig in (and it’s totally worth it). Peel and chop 5lbs of sweet potatoes and let your slow cooker do all the work for the next four hours. Transfer to a casserole dish, spread a layer of pecans over the sweet potato mixture then bake for 20 minutes to achieve maximum crunch before adding the mini marshmallows. Bake for five more minutes (or until marshmallows are golden brown) and dig in.

Caramel Fondue

Creme de la Crumb

From apple slices to pretzels, there’s no wrong way to dunk with this dip, made from only three ingredients — caramels, heavy cream and marshmallows. Say hello to your new post-Thanksgiving party trick.

Garlic Ranch Potatoes

The Cookie Rookie

Tender red potatoes are a great alternative to the typical mashed variety. Top the wedges with ranch seasoning, chives and garlic for a fresh side dish that no one will believe you made entirely in the crock pot.

Cranberry Sauce Crock Pot Recipe

Gimme Some Oven

This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. Toss in the ingredients and come back in three hours for cranberry sauce that is the perfect combination of tart and sweet. Add a splash of vanilla extract right before serving.

Cinnamon Apples

A Spicy Perspective

The best side dishes double as dessert. Cover thinly sliced apples in brown sugar, cinnamon and bourbon, then simmer for four hours. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is — they’re delicious either way.

Cranberry Meatballs

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Trade out the usual jar of grape jelly in your famous meatball recipe for cranberry sauce to give it a holiday update. The sweet and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more. In fact, you better double the recipe.

Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

Averie Cooks

This tasty party snack is perfect for clearing out your cabinets: cereal, peanuts, pretzels, dried fruit and graham crackers all come together in a salty sweet crunch. Drench the mix in butter, maple syrup and pumpkin pie spices before testing your willpower for the next two hours.

Apple Pie Oatmeal

The Healthy Maven

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day (especially on Thanksgiving), but this oatmeal couldn’t be easier: Toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker before you go to bed and you’ll wake up to the aroma of nutmeg and maple syrup.

Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creme de la Crumb

A pile of fresh herbs, butter and garlic make these mashed potatoes stand out on the buffet table. Use red potatoes and leave the skins on for a rustic flair that not only adds a ton of flavor, it also saves you some work.

Spinach + Artichoke Dip

Damn Delicious

Keep your guests from getting hangry while they wait for dinner: Serve this creamy spinach and artichoke dip with bread, pretzels or pita for a Thanksgiving staple made super easy, thanks to your crock pot.

Butternut Squash Soup

Life Made Sweeter

Combine coconut milk with chunks of butternut squash and sweet potato, then cook in the crockpot for four hours. Once everything is fork tender, break out your immersion blender to make the texture velvety smooth. Top with extra coconut milk and toasted pumpkin seeds before devouring.

Pumpkin Cobbler

The Gunny Sack

Trade in your standard pumpkin pie for a cobbler that is made in the crock pot from start to finish. Pro tip: place a paper towel underneath the lid to keep the condensation off the food and ensure a crispy crust. Top the plated perfection with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel syrup.

Dinner Rolls

Lil Luna

The slow cooker might be the last place you'd think to bake dinner rolls, but trust us on this one. This trick comes in handy year-round, especially on hot summer days when you don't feel like blasting that oven. Genius.

Don't miss out on knocking out a dish or two this year with these Thanksgiving crock pot recipes and if you need more inspiration, join our newsletter or explore our new cooking classes on B+C Classes.