The Ultimate B+C Girl’s Guide to Black Friday

Marisa Dalpiaz
Nov 27, 2014

One day after being thankful for what we already have, many of us will meet on the Black Friday battlefield to fight it out for what we want. (For friends and fam, of course!) While shopping online may be more convenient, think of the calories you’ll burn from your turkey dinner by putting yourself in the retail trenches. It will not be easy. There will be long lines, stampedes of hangry shoppers, frigid weather and deals that may or may not be the best. But don’t freak. We’ve got your Black Friday boot camp right here at Brit + Co HQ.

As far as what to wear goes, Style Editor Kate Puhala has some great ideas here. Comfort is everything when you’re doing a major haul day like Black Friday. And it’s no secret that colors affect our mood; wearing bright colors and patterns will give you more energy. Unless you prefer to go for the stealthy, deal-snatching, ninja look.

Where to Shop

Whether you’re looking to FINALLY pick up that iPhone 6 or you need to focus more on the extensive “nice” list on your phone, we have the best Apple deals to scout out and the 30 best Black Friday deals actually WORTH setting your alarm for. Godspeed.

Sustenance

Obviously we know that we eat to obtain energy, but not all foods will give you the most energy possible. To make it through this high-energy day, you’ll need more than a pair of printed holiday socks. Choose snacks that you can easily carry, or perhaps pack a meal to take with you on the go. Here are five ideas:

1. KIND Bars: These healthy snacks are low in sugar, high in fiber and easy to pack and take with you for your Black Friday adventures. Plus, most of them use dark chocolate chips as an ingredient. Can you say, “Yum”? We can’t… our mouths are full.

2. Chocolate Milk: Believe it or not, a glass of chocolate milk in the afternoon may give you more energy than coffee. You might be fading because you’re dehydrated. Chocolate milk can satisfy the same craving as your mocha, and you will probably feel more energized, too. (via Daily Trojan)

3. Oatmeal Smoothie: 1/2 cup of soy milk, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, 1 whole banana, 1/4 cup old fashioned oats… and blend. This is a great supplementary meal if you’re too busy door-busting to grab a bite. (via Chef Saavy)

4. Almonds: These little guys are a great way to make sure you get healthy fats, build muscle and sustain your energy level. They are the easiest things to pack for a snack. (via Grappler Gourmet)

5. Ginger Tea: This cozy drink helps improve circulation more than coffee does. You’ feel more energized, because it gets your blood pumping. (via Whole Foods Explorer)

Line Tactics

Dealing with long lines at checkout is the most frustrating part of Black Friday. After fighting other shoppers for that last thing on your list, you’re exhausted and in need of another chocolate milk. Here are five tips to help you get your line tactics straight.

1. Look for Fewer People:Rather than hopping into that long express line, go for the shortest line possible, regardless of how heaping those carts are. It’s not the time it takes to ring individual items up that sucks up the most seconds; rather, it’s the time it takes a cashier to deal with payment… that will be the thing that puts you 20 minutes behind schedule.

2. Cyber Friday:Use your phone to snatch up online deals while you wait to check out in the store. Why just stand there when you could be shopping?

3. Keep Friends Close… and the Lady in Front of You in Line Closer: Make friends with the gal in front of you. Maybe she has an extra coupon she doesn’t need.

4. Buddy System: Bring someone with you for the sole purpose of holding your place in line. As you begin to wrap up your shopping, send your placeholder to scope out the shortest line.

5. Check, Please:Ask the cashier if there are any further discounts. You never know… all you may have to do to get another 15% off is give the store your email address.

Help from Your Phone

Even keeping all these line tactics in mind, it may be difficult to pass the time while you wait if you’re shopping a major department store with no crowd control. Managing your time on a day like Black Friday can be overwhelming. Instead of getting caught up in the chaos, make sure you’ve got these apps on your phone to make your life easier.

1. Podcast Playlist: Need something to listen to while waiting in line? Have one — or a few — podcasts downloaded, or catch up on the latest episodes of Serial.

2. Pocket: Use this app to catch up on reading all those online articles you’ve been meaning to get to. Maybe add this one to your list. (Free on iOS and Android)

3. Brit + Co on the Go: What’s better than adding our articles to your Pocket? Downloading our app direct.

4. Any.do: This app organizes your to-do list and sends you reminders when you need to get things done. If you enter all the deals you wanted to hit, when the sale starts and where they are located into this app, your Black Friday could be the most productive day you’ve had all year. (Free on iOS and Android)

5. Punkpost: Send your holiday cards before you even have a chance to procrastinate. Choose your card from the website, type in your message and hit send. Punkpost handwrites your greeting and sends it out for you.

How are you feeling after your Black Friday boot camp? Let us know what deals these tips helped you score in the comments below!

13 Educational Podcasts To Learn And Grow From

We may have left mountains of homework and questionable cafeteria food behind years ago, but that doesn't mean we can't learn anything from educational podcasts. From online classes to language apps, we’re all about expanding our knowledge, especially if it’s fun.

When your commute turns into a bore or you’re up for picking up a new skill, these educational podcasts will drop some serious knowledge on you, no backpack required.

Good Job, Brain!

What began as a Kickstarter project has now become an extremely popular trivia podcast. Half quiz show and half offbeat news, Good Job, Brain! will have you laughing and dominating your next trivia night.

Curiosity Daily

Curiosity Daily is an award-winning podcast that allows you to learn a little bit more about the world around you. It takes listeners through research-based life hacks and the latest science and technology news, allowing you to walk out into the world more knowledgable.

Hidden Brain

Hidden Brain explores something we all strive to understand better - our thoughts! Each episode teaches about social psychology and the neuroscience behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. What I love about this podcast is how practical and applicable the information shared truly is.

Ologies

Ologies is designed to be a crash course on all things science. It talks about everything from dinosaurs to space to the human body, giving you all sorts of information you never knew you needed or wanted. The host is able to interview experts in the field, giving you a really comprehensive look on the subjects tackled.

Stuff Mom Never Told You

This podcast is filled with valuable information that is going to make your life better. Its two female hosts talk about everything from sex and relationships to health and career. They break down really complex topics in a way that feels accessible, educational, and engaging.

The History Chicks

This podcast dials you into the "herstory" you never learned. It tells the tories of girl bosses from queens to warriors to scientists and artists.

The Gist

Radio journalist Mike Pesca leads this Slate podcast, which covers three hot, political topics a week. From JFK to debates, The Gist will keep you in the know.

Stuff You Should Know

HowStuffWorks writers Josh and Chuck educate listeners on everything from the ecosystem to Jack the Ripper and sharks. What stuff should you know? Take a listen to how sushi works or the science behind3D printing.

Planet Money

Mo’ money, mo’ problems, right? Not if you’re Planet Money. They’ll teach you how to handle your money, check your finances and work with the economy, all without being a bore. Where to start? Learn more about homeowners insurance policies or free money.

TED Radio Hour 

TED talks are known for their thought-provoking topics and speakers. This podcast is a coproduction of powerhouses NPR and TED to bring ideas, creations and problem-solving tips to the table. Listen as individuals share their ideas each week, like singer-songwriter Megan Washington, who talks about how singing achieves stillness.

The School of Greatness 

Former pro-athlete Lewis Howes takes business, leadership and personal development to the next level. The School of Greatness features top professionals who aim to inspire and encourage growth in their listeners. Ready for change? Find out the 10 essential truths needed to upgrade your life or discover simple ways to overcome stress.

No Stupid Questions

Angela Duckworth, a research psychologist, partners up with tech and sports executive, Mike Maughan, to answer all of your science questions. They answer them in a knowledgable and non-condescending way, no matter how silly the question may seem.

Science Vs

We all know sometimes the internet can bombard us with info, and it's hard to decipher what's true and what's not. Science Vs explores the science behind popular claims and trends, interviewing experts and conducting in-depth research to help you decide what's worth following.

Which educational podcasts have you listened to recently?

Lead image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels

This post has been updated.

educationmoney managementneurosciencepodcastsnsfwlifestyle

Jennifer Lawrence & Dakota Johnson Just Went On A Cozy BFF Date

Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson are two of my favorite people in Hollywood because of the fact they do literally whatever they want, and they don’t care what you think about it. I aspire to be this confident and unbothered!! They've both had pretty big years — Dakota led both Madame Web and Daddio, while Jennifer announced she's pregnant with her second child at the end of October, and when I saw they hung out together, I knew this was one celebrity friendship I'd LOVE.

Are Jennifer Lawrence & Dakota Johnson friends?

Yes, Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson are friends! The actresses were recently spotted on a stroll in Los Angeles, beverages in hand. Jennifer wore a tee and blue hoodie that showed off her growing baby bump while Dakota kept things chic with a black-on-black coat and v-neck sweater over a white tee shirt. They both looked super cozy! And, let's face it, beverages are basically an accessory at this point, and their drinks of choice prove they love little treats as much as we do!

And this isn't the first moment Jennifer Lawrence BFF moment that's made us fangirl this year! At the Oscars in March, Jennifer introduced Emma Stone, who ended up winning Best Actress for her role as Bella in Poor Things. Emma cried, Jennifer couldn't stop smiling, and it was an adorable moment for girls' girls everywhere.

Did Jennifer Lawrence date Chris Martin?

Not only are they two of Hollywood's "It" girls, but they also share an overlap in their dating history. Jennifer Lawrence (who's now married to Cooke Maroney) dated Dakota Johnson’s current beau Chris Martin between 2014 and 2015. Dakota started dating him just two years later.

Rumors started circulating in August that Dakota and Chris had called it quits, but thankfully, Dakota proved they were just rumors when her rep told Page Sixthe couple is still "happily together." The Social Network actress also told Bustle that when it comes to Chris' kids (whom he shares with ex Gwyneth Paltrow), she loves them "like my life depends on it. With all my heart." I'm simply obsessed.

Stay tuned for all the best Jennifer Lawrence & Dakota Johnson friendship moments, and read up on why Dakota Johnson's Book Club Isn't Your Average Celebrity Reading List.

dakota johnsonfriendshipjennifer lawrencepop culturecelebrity

14 Money Podcasts To Help You Bolster Your Bank Account

Cashing in our first adult paycheck, buying our first car — becoming an adult means it's time to put away our adorable childhood piggy banks and make the switch to an actual bank-approved savings plan. But just because we know we should be managing our finances better (and resist those 2am Amazon splurges), it doesn't mean we know exactly where to start. Luckily for us, these millennial-focused, women-hosted money podcasts will help us understand our finances, make a budget and adult like a boss.

Women in Finance with Andrea Radulescu

Image via Women in Finance

You don't want to take money advice from just anyone. It's extremely important that they have the right credibility to back up what they're saying. The Women in Finance podcast is led by female professionals in the finance industry who know exactly what they're talking about. They share advice and insights from their career that help you feel more confident in your finances.

Her Money with Jean Chatzky

Image via Her Money

Hilarious, heartfelt and deeply interesting, this cool women-focused financial podcast should definitely be on your commuting playlist. Tackling everything from investing to retirement funds, it's a practical guide that isn't a struggle to listen to.

So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

Image via So Money

Named a Best Podcast by The New York Times, So Money with Farnoosh Torabi provides listeners with candid conversations about money. Torabi covers everything from budgeting and saving to how to invest and retire. She is an award-winning financial strategist, allowing listeners to feel confident in knowing that they are getting sound advice.

Brown Ambition with Mandi and Tiffany

Image via Brown Ambition

Far too often women of color are left out of the all-too-important conversation around personal finance. Mandi and Tiffany, the hosts of Brown Ambition, have created a space at the table to have these conversations and provide meaningful advice on topics like budgeting, investing, and career development. Their suggestions never feel judgmental, which is something that some money podcasts veer into, allowing listeners to feel supported.

Afford Anything with Paula Pant

Image via Afford Anything

If your money goals include complete financial independence, Afford Anything is the podcast for you. It is centered around the idea that, yes, you can afford anything, but you can't afford everything. The host, Paula Pant, interviews people who have had success with their money and points out what you can learn and implement into your own life.

Women & Money

Hosted by financial advisor, Suze Orman, Women & Money features engaging and informational interviews with successful women. I love this podcast because it really does have a "no gatekeeping" policy, as powerful women come on and are more than happy to share their tips and strategies on all things money management and investment.

Clever Girls Know!

Image by Clever Girl Finance

Created by Clever Girl Finance, a leading personal finance platform, this podcast is designed to help women learn about their finances and build wealth independently. Hosts Bola Sokunbi and Kara Perez are extremely knowledgable and touch upon a number of important subjects, including budgeting and investing. The best part is the podcast feels fast-paced, engaging, and fun which allows for you to learn while enjoying yourself.

Money Girl

Image via Money Girl

Savings and spreadsheets aren't really the most exhilarating subjects, which is why this to-the-point podcast is perfect for a daily dose of financial wisdom. The host, Laura, Adams, takes listeners through credit, taxes, retirement,and insurance to help us all make better and smarter decisions!

The Fairer Cents 

Image via Fairer Cents

If the pay gap is something that makes your blood boil (as it should), you'll want to listen to Fairer Cents. The podcast dives into actionable ways to challenge the status quo and get ahead when it comes to money in a male-dominated world.

Yo Quiero Dinero with Janesse Torrez-Rodriguez

Image via Jannese Torres

Like the title suggests, don't we all want to make money? This podcast is hosted by Jannese Torres who walks listeners through her journey of being fired and turning it into financial freedom. Her story and the advice she provides are inspirational and will have you feeling confident you can take your dinero to the next level.

Financial Feminist 

Image via Financial Feminist

If you're looking to fully take control of your finances and work to achieve your goals and beyond, it's time to give Financial Feminist a listen. The show covers topics like budgeting, investing, and saving in a way that feels both relatable and empowering.

Side Hustle Pro with Nacaila Matthews Okome

Image via Side Hustle Pro

For those looking to pick up something on the side to make some extra cash, Side Hustle Pro walks you through just how to do it. The host, Nicaila Matthews Okome, interviews successful Black women entrepreneurs who have been able to take their side hustles to profitable businesses that support them and their families.

The Money Nerds With Whitney Hansen

Image via The Money Nerds

The Money Nerds provides relatable stories that make you feel a little less alone in your financial woes. The podcast covers things like debt, savings, and how to just stress less about whats in your pocket.

The Financial Confessions

Image via The Financial Confessions

For some reason, there can be a lot of shame surrounding financial journeys and the inevitable struggles that come along the way. The Financial Confessions podcast works to destigmatize money conversations and talks about everything involving earning, spending, and losing money. It is hosted by the CEO of The Financial Diet, Chelsea Fagan, so you know you're getting quality advice.

What's your all-time favorite podcast? Let us know in the comments!

podcastscareermoney

Bye, PSL! The Starbucks Holiday Menu For 2024 Returns Next Week

So long, pumpkin spice season: Starbucks’ holiday menu is on the way, and per menu leaks, it reportedly brings back a ton of seasonal favorites starting next week.

From a classic Peppermint Mocha to the beloved Caramel Brûlée Latte, the recent menu rumors say a new Refresher flavor, 6 unique cold foams, and 4 new bakery items are on the way as the holidays draw near – including many items we predicted! The speculated lineup is honestly wild. Starbucks teased that the holiday menu will hit stores on November 7.

If you just can’t wait to order off the Starbucks holiday menu, here’s every offering reportedly coming to your closest cafe!

When will the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2024 come out?

Starbucks

According to an Instagram post from Starbucks, new holiday drinks and snacks will come out on November 7, 2024.

Will there be holiday cups?

Starbucks

We do anticipate that the Starbucks holiday menu will include some new holiday cup designs! Though we don't know what they'll look like just yet, previous holiday menus over the years have featured vibrant reds, greens, and pinks, plus stars, sparkles, Christmas trees, swirls, and stripes. Typically, Starbucks' holiday cups span across hot and iced drinks. Additionally, a new lineup of reusable cups and mugs should become available!

What's missing from this year's rumored Starbucks holiday menu?

Starbucks

Per rumors around the Starbucks holiday menu, the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread Loaf won't be returning to cafes for 2024. We're especially sad to see the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha not included, though the official menu lineup has yet to be released!

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Though there's no official word out about Red Cup Day for 2024, our best guess – based on the Red Cup Days of years past – is it'll return mid-November. In 2023, Red Cup Day fell on November 16. In 2022, the coffee chain held the event on November 17. Both dates landed on the third Thursday of November, so we predict it to hit on November 21 for 2024. Red Cup Day is when Starbucks customers can get a free reusable red cup when they order a seasonal drink off the holiday menu.

Drinks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Cran-Merry Orange Refresher

The Starbucks holiday menu leak reported that this brand-new Refresher is packed with sweet orange, tart cranberry and warm spice. It also has cranberry inclusions and is order-able mixed with water, lemonade or coconut milk.

Starbucks

Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

Chai is a totally underrated holiday flavor in our opinion. This iced drink is crafted with warm chai spices and creamy oat milk, then gets topped with even more frothed oat milk infused with gingerbread-flavored syrup and a sprinkling of spice.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha

You know it, and you love it! The Peppermint Mocha has hit Starbucks menus year after year, making it a total statement sip for the holiday season. This drink (available hot or iced) combines peppermint syrup, mocha sauce, and your milk of choice with espresso for a festive feel. It's traditionally topped with whipped cream and tasty chocolate curls.

Starbucks

Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha

Similar to the classic Peppermint Mocha, this bev swaps chocolate for white chocolate sauce.

Starbucks

Caramel Brûlée Latte

This rumored Starbucks holiday menu drink is very rich. The sweet caramel brûlée sauce totally completes the sip, along with plenty of whipped cream and crunchy lil' brûlée bits for textural variety.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Literally like a sugar cookie in liquid form, this super-sweet latte is handcrafted with blonde espresso (it's sweeter and lighter than Starbucks' traditional espresso shots), sugar cookie syrup, and almond milk for a little bit of a lighter effect. It's finished off with red and green sprinkles to up the seasonal vibes even more!

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte

This nutty latte – rumored to return for 2024 – brings on notes of chestnut and praline, which is a nice, flavorful departure from the very expected peppermint you'll see everywhere come holiday time.

Starbucks

Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew

Initially introduced for fall 2024, it appears as though the Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew will stay on the Starbucks menu well into winter. The salted, pecan-flavored cold foam offers that classic sweet n' salty twist you'd enjoy on fall snacks like trail mix or dipped pretzels. The best part is you can now also order the cold foam in non-dairy form!

Starbucks

Holiday Cold Foams

Per the menu leak, Starbs will be bringing back four beloved holiday-flavored cold foamsand two new options for 2024. They're the perfect drink customization to add to your iced coffees and cold brews if you don't want to order an all-out holiday drink. See all the predicted flavors below:

  • NEW! Gingerbread
  • NEW! Salted Pecan
  • Peppermint Chocolate
  • Sugar Cookie
  • Chestnut Praline
  • Caramel Brûlée

Snacks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Dark Toffee Bundt

Per the menu leak, this sweet toffee-flavored bundt will be topped with holly- and berry-shaped sprinkles. How perfect for the holiday season!

@markie_devo

NEW! Turkey Sage Danish

This savory snack reportedly includes "turkey sausage with creamy béchamel sauce in a pastry." It sounds like Thanksgiving in a single treat, and we can't wait to try it!

@markie_devo

NEW! Penguin Cookie

This cutie sugar cookie is decorated like a lil' penguin bundled up for the cold.

Starbucks

Snowman Cake Pop

Starbucks' classic vanilla cake pop gets a wintry twist with an adorable snowman face – this sweet really makes us crave the holiday season!

Starbucks

Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

This cream cheese-filled danish is topped with a slightly-spiced sugar plum jam. It's been one of our go-to's over the past few holiday seasons at Starbucks!

Starbucks

Cranberry Bliss Bar

The Cranberry Bliss Bar has become an absolute staple on the Starbucks holiday menu, and for good reason! This blondie treat is smothered in a delicious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with orange zest and dried cranberries for added seasonal enjoyment.

What People Are Saying About The Leaked Starbucks Holiday Menu

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Markie_devo (@markie_devo)

Though most commenters on @markie_devo's Starbucks holiday menu leak post seemed to be excited for the upcoming rumored menu items, some Starbs fans noticed a few things missing from the leaked lineup.

"Still missing eggnog 😢," someone noted.

"Where is the toasted white chocolate mocha 😢😢😢😢," another questioned.

"ALLLLLL these cold foams, and not the one people want: Irish Cream," one more commenter said.

"Ugh still no gingerbread loaf 😭," a disappointed user wrote. "Everything else looks bomb though!"

Despite the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread loaf not being part of this year's menu predictions, the holiday season is our favorite time of year at Starbucks. Many more users shared the same sentiment:

"So excited for all chestnut praline shaken espressos & cranberry bliss bars 🎄🎄🎄🎄," someone wrote.

"Oh hell yess all the chestnut praline offerings," another rejoiced.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay posted on the latest Starbucks news, including when the official holiday menu lineup drops!

This post has been updated.

food newsstarbucksmenu leakholidaycoffeensfwfood

18 Thanksgiving Crock Pot Recipes You Can Make This Year

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.

holiday recipesslow cooker recipesfriendsgiving ideas