The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Own Marmalade

Have you ever thought that your morning Greek yogurt and toast was missing something? We’ve got just the cure for you — marmalade! We’re bringing you all the basics of marmalade-making, plus three delicious and zesty recipes. *And* we’re pairing this guide with one of our favorite things — free printables! Top off these homemade spreads with our downloadable labels to really seal the deal (canning pun totally intended). Each recipe has an optional boozy twist — a little bit of liqueur to balance out the sweetness. Scroll on for three of our favorite marmalade combos: Meyer Lemon and Limoncello, Blood Orange and Grand Marnier, and Cara Cara Orange and Campari.

What’s the difference between marmalade and jam, you ask? Marmalade uses the peel of the fruit as well as the pulp, so citrus is always involved. Are you ready for this jelly?

Whip up one of these fresh marmalades and your toast will go from flat to fabulous. Now, onto the marmalade-ing!

Tools:
– measuring cup

– cheesecloth

– kitchen twine

– knife

– cutting board

– ladle

– peeler

– large saucepan

– canning tools (you can find a comprehensive list of tools in our Canning 101 tutorial)

Citrus Marmalade Instructions (See More Recipes Below!)

1. Remove the zest from your citrus by peeling in a circle from the top. You’ll want to have large, ribbonlike pieces.

2. Lay out all the peels on the cutting board and slice into even smaller strips. Set the sliced peels aside. These peels are what makes this marmalade instead of jam.

3. Peel the rest of the thick white skin (AKA the albedo) of the citrus off and discard.

4. Separate the slices of the fruit and dice into small, triangular pieces.

5. While you’re dicing the citrus, remove and reserve the seeds. Citrus seeds have pectin, a preserving ingredient, in them.

6. Cut a piece of cheesecloth and fold it in half. Place the seeds in the center and roll the sides of the cheesecloth into a small sack. Tie off and seal with the kitchen twine.

7. Pour the peel slices and the pulp into a large saucepan. Pour the water into the pot and drop the seed sack into the pot as well.

8. Boil on medium heat, stirring occasionally.

9. Check on the saucepan after 30 minutes. The citrus peels should be translucent by now. If not, continue to boil them until they are.

10. Stir in the sugar and pectin with the diced citrus and peels.

11. After about 20 minutes, test the marmalade to see if it has reached the gel set. When marmalade is hot, it’s still a bit runny. The most surefire way to see if it has reached the gel set is to place a small spoonful on some wax paper and put it in the freezer. After a few minutes, take it out and poke the marmalade. If there’s a skin, you’ve reached gel set! If not, add a little more pectin and continue to boil and test periodically.

12. Once gel set has been reached, add alcohol and boil for another 2 minutes.

13. Ladle the finished marmalade into the canning jars.

Meyer Lemon + Limoncello

Ingredients:
– 12 Meyer lemons

– 2 tbsp Limoncello

– 4 cups sugar

– 3 cups water

– 4 tbsp Ball Real Fruit Classic Pectin (or any pectin will do)

– 3 whole clove seeds

Start by gathering your ingredients.

Remove the zest from the lemons by peeling vertically from the top. You’ll want to have large pieces to work with. Chop the zest into even smaller slices. Peel the rest of the thick white skin (AKA the albedo) of the citrus off and discard. Dice the citrus pulp into small triangular pieces and place in a bowl with the citrus peel slices. While you’re dicing the citrus pulp, set aside the seeds. Next, cut a piece of cheesecloth and fold it in half. Place the lemon and clove seeds in the center and roll the sides of the cheesecloth into a small sack. Tie off and seal with the kitchen twine. Dump the lemon peel slices, lemon pulp and seed sack into a large saucepan.

Pour the water into the pan. Boil on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Check on the saucepan with the citrus peels and pulp after 30 minutes. See if the citrus peels are translucent, or keep boiling until they are. Stir in the sugar and the pectin. After about 20 minutes, test the marmalade to see if it has reached the gel set. When marmalade is hot, its still a bit runny. A surefire way to see if it has reached gel set is to place a small spoonful on some wax paper or a small dish and put it in the freezer. After a few minutes, take it out and poke the marmalade. If there’s a skin, you’ve reached gel set! If not, add a little more pectin and continue to boil and test periodically.

Once gel set has been reached, add the Limoncello and boil for another two minutes. Remove from heat and ladle the marmalade into sterilized jars with the aid of a funnel. Leave at least ¼ inch of space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and place them into a hot water bath to seal. Boil in the hot water bath for about 10 minutes, then remove the jars from the bath. (Pssst: Want more info about proper canning techniques? Check out our Canning 101 tutorial.)

Blood Orange + Grand Marnier

Ingredients:
– 9 blood oranges (about 3 lbs)

– 2 tbsp Grand Marnier

– 2 meyer lemons

– 4 cups sugar

– 3 cups water

– 4 tbsp Ball RealFruit Classic Pectin (or any pectin will do)

Even the ingredients make our mouths water.

Remove the zest from the citrus by peeling in a circle from the top. You’ll want to have large, ribbonlike pieces. Chop the zest into even smaller slices. Peel the rest of the thick white skin (remember, this is called the albedo) of the citrus off and discard. Dice the citrus pulp into small triangular pieces and place in a bowl with the citrus peel slices. While you’re dicing the citrus pulp, set aside the seeds.

Cut a piece of cheesecloth and fold it in half. Place the seeds in the center and roll the sides of the cheesecloth into a small sack. Tie off and seal with the kitchen twine. Pour the citrus peel slices and the pulp into a large saucepan. Pour the water into the pot and drop the seed sack into the pot as well. Boil on medium heat and stir occasionally.

Check on the saucepan after 30 minutes. Check the citrus peels to see if they are translucent, or keep boiling until they are. Once the peels are translucent, stir in the sugar and the pectin with the diced citrus and peels. After 20 minutes, test the marmalade to see if it has reached gel set. Once gel set has been reached, add the Grand Marnier and boil for another two minutes. Check out how to properly can your marmalade in our Canning 101 tutorial.

Cara Cara Orange + Campari

Ingredients:
– 4 cara cara oranges (about 1 ½ lbs)

– 1 grapefruit

– 3 meyer lemons

– 2 tbsp Campari

– 4 cups sugar

– 3 cups water

– 4 tbsp Ball RealFruit Classic Pectin (or any pectin will do)

Cara Cara + Campari also sounds like a cocktail we need to make ;)

Remove the zest from the cara cara oranges, lemons and grapefruit. You’ll want to have large, ribbonlike pieces. Chop the zest into even smaller slices. Peel the rest of the thick white skin of the citrus fruits off and discard. Dice the citrus pulp into small triangular pieces and place in a bowl with the citrus peel slices. While you’re dicing the citrus pulp, set aside the seeds. Place the seeds in a makeshift cheesecloth sack, tying the sack off with kitchen twine. Pour the diced pulp, sliced peels and seed sack into the saucepan.

Pour the water into the pot and boil on medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check the peels to see if they’re translucent and add the sugar and pectin. After about 20 minutes, check for gel set. Once gel set is reached, add the Campari and boil for another two minutes. Ladle the finished marmalade into the jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Screw the lids of the jars on tightly and finish the canning process by boiling the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes. (Pssst: Want more info about proper canning techniques? Check out our Canning 101 tutorial.)

Top ‘Em Off With Some Printables!

Want to spread the love and give your marmalade away as gifts, or add a fun label to your jars? We’ve created free printable labels for each recipe. Your marmalade can be stored for up to two years, so be sure to write the canning date on each label.

Print the free printable labels out on a full sheet of sticker paper. Cut the label out using an X-Acto knife on a cutting mat and stick the sides of the label onto the smooth sides of the jar.

Voila! Your family, friends and neighbors will now call you Lady Marmalade! It’s perfect for adding some zest to morning toast or sweetening Greek yogurt. You can also spread some marmalade on shortbread cookies for a delicious tea-time treat.

Will you try out these recipes? If so, we’d love to see the results! Post photos of your marmalade creations with the hashtags #britstagram and #iamcreative so we can take a peek

It’s definitely not too early to start your holiday shopping, and Stanley’s got just the gift for everyone on your list. The brand is debuting their Comfort & Joy holiday collection on October 29, and it’s packed with practical drinkware pieces of all kinds in the coziest colors ever to help ring in the most wonderful time of the year. We’re super stoked about the wine set and rose gold-gilded Quenchers! The Stanley holiday collection is bound to sell out, so acquaint yourself with the entire edit below and scroll on for details on how to snag the pieces for yourself before they’re gone.

Our faves from the Comfort & Joy collection:

What's in the 2024 Stanley holiday collection?

Stanley

There are 16 pieces in Stanley's Comfort & Joy holiday collection, including the famed Quencher tumblers. There's also some fun sets designed for cocktails, wine, and hot beverages!

The main characters in the collection come in three cozy colors: Gilded Sugar (a very light pink), Gilded Pomegranate (deep red), and Gilded Celadon (light teal). Select drinkware is also shoppable in colors like Twilight Gloss (deep navy) and Gilded Marshmallow (stark white).

How do I shop the 2024 Stanley holiday collection?

Stanley

You can shop the Comfort & Joy collection online on Stanley's website starting October 29 at 9am PT. You can also shop it through this post once the collection is live. Sign up to get notified about the drop here!

See The Entire Stanley Holiday Collection Here

Stanley

The Holiday Quencher H2.0 FlowState 40-Ounce Tumbler

The gold and copper details on this classic Quencher make every sip feel super festive!

Stanley

The Holiday Quencher H2.O FlowState 30-Ounce Tumbler

You can also snag the same colorways in a 30-ounce size!

Stanley

The Holiday All Day Wine Set

Pour one out for you and your bestie with this travel-friendly wine set.

Stanley

The Holiday IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler

This tumbler is easy to take to and from all the holiday gatherings you'll be attending this season. No shame if you fill it up with some wine.

Stanley

The Holiday Stay-Hot Camp Mug

Keep that tea, hot chocolate, or warm cocktail warm with this expertly-insulated mug that's prepped and ready for the holidays with three Stanley signature colors.

Stanley

The Holiday Stay-Chill Stacking Pint

This pint keeps its contents cold (or hot) for hours. Party time!

Stanley

The Holiday Stay-Chill Growler Set

Camping in the cold? Pour up a warming cocktail – or better yet, some soup into the growler and enjoy with a buddy using the coordinating Stanley cups.

Stanley

The Holiday Lifted Spirits Prismatic Craft Cocktail Set

Shake things up this holiday season with this easy-to-use trio. This would also make an excellent gift for the mixologist in your life!

Stanley

The Holiday Legendary Classic Bottle with Buddy Cups

This tightly-sealed bottle keeps liquids warm all day long so you can enjoy a comforting sip by the fire, even in the thick of winter.

Stanley

The Holiday IceFlow Bottle with Flip Straw Lid

Keep sippin' with this convenient insulated bottle that can help you tackle your morning commute with zero troubles.

Stanley

The Holiday Stanley Cross Bottle

The crossbody strap on this bottle lets you keep your bev close, no matter what you're drinking.

Stanley

The Holiday Stay Hot Camp Mug Set

The ideal set for outdoorsy couples, this duo of insulated mugs will join them on every single adventure!

Stanley

The Holiday All Day Slim Bottle

The perfect size for a purse or backpack, this slim bottle still has all the features you know and love from Stanley.

Stanley

The Holiday Quencher H2.0 Samesies Sip Set

This set would be so cute as a gift for a mom + daughter duo. The big size holds 40 ounces, while the smaller one holds 14 ounces of their favorite beverage.

Stanley

The Holiday Quencher Straws for 40-Ounce Tumblers

These straws were made to match the Stanley holiday collection perfectly! They're also available for 30-ounce tumblers.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more exciting holiday launches + gift ideas!

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

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

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.

The countdown to the holidays will be here before you know it, which is why we're gearing up to treat ourselves all December long with the best advent calendars for 2024. Whether you're looking to unbox a lil' somethin'-somethin' for yourself or gift the goodness to a friend or family member, these 10 advent calendars span across food, beauty, and pop culture – ensuring you find the perfect fit.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: The Official Advent Calendar

This Rory- and Lorelai-approved advent calendar is packed to the brim with 25 Stars Hollow-themed trinkets, from keychains, and buttons to magnets and stickers so you can flaunt your Gilmore Girls fandom all year long.

Godiva

Godiva 2024 Holiday Classic Chocolate Advent Calendar

Because chocolate always makes the best gift! This Godiva advent calendar comes complete with 24 assorted chocolates that range from milk, dark, and white. Kick off the most delicious time of year by gifting this indulgent set to your local chocolate lover, or yourself – just try not to sneak all the chocolates in one sitting!

Sephora

Sephora Collection Advent Calendar

We'd gladly take a Sephora-themed advent calendar year-round, but this beauty-centric one makes the holidays feel a bit more special. Never say "no" to a treat-yourself moment! With this set, you'll unveil 24 different makeup, skincare, and bath goodies, accessories, plus an advent-exclusive inclusion.

Nordstrom

MAC Cosmetics 24K Holiday Advent Calendar

Unwrap your glowiest glow with this luxurious MAC advent calendar! For 24 whole days (ideally leading up to Christmas, but we understand where you're coming from, early openers), you'll find only the best lip, base, eyes, and skin picks from the beloved brand. Sitting at an original value of $480, you can snag this baby for more than half-off for the holidays!

Typology

Typology Advent Calendar

Typology's 2023 advent calendar sold out in less than 48 hours last year, and it's already waitlisted for 2024 – but it's not to be missed, especially if you're gifting the design- and sustainability-forward beauty-lover in your life. This cal contains 15 full-size and 9 mini-size skincare products for the face, eyes, lips, and hands. It's super sleek yet unique, plus, it's constructed from FSC-certified paper to not only optimize space, but reduce its carbon footprint during transport. Get your name on the waitlist with the link here!

Nordstrom

Sugarfina 24 Tastes Of Christmas Candy Advent Calendar

The holidays are the time to assume the character of Buddy the Elf and go all in on all the Christmas candies. This 24-day advent calendar features everything from creamy chocolates to fruity gummies to satisfy that sweet tooth and bring some very sugary Christmas cheer to the season. P.S. Sharing is caring!

Craftspring

Craftspring Linen Ornaments Advent Calendar

Your Christmas tree will be left looking utterly lush once you've made it through this adorable advent calendar. It's loaded with a mini ornament for every day, each one made from sustainably-harvested merino-blended wool. The hand-embroidered calendar base will truly last a lifetime, so you can use it every year, loading it with candies, teas, and beauty goodies – whatever you please!

Nordstrom

L'Occitane 24 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar

This treasure chest of goodies for your skin, body, hair, and hands is well-worth the investment (a $115 value for just $84) considering you can get some good year-round use out of it. The contents will come in particularly handy for all your dry skin woes once winter is, well, wintering. The best part about this cal is you can keep what you want, then gift more minis to the skincare-obsessed in your life!

Compartés

Compartés Winter Foxes Chocolate Advent Calendar

By far the coolest, most intricate chocolates we've tried, Compartés' offerings make the best holiday gifts. Opt for this 24 day-long advent calendar inspired by a mystical fox named Samson. Like Samson, you'll be able to cleverly venture out on a world of bite-sized chocolate treasures from the likes of Creme Brûlée, Campfire S'mores, and Blackberry Crumble. How yummy.

Lush

Lush Advent Calendar

Holiday prep can be stressful. Wind down and relax a bit each day with each of Lush's advent calendar surprises! From colorful bath bombs and home fragrances to beloved beauty picks from years past, this 24-day box is a total banger. Plus, if you don't see yourself using up each day's offering, you'll have some absolutely delightful gifts on-hand to give to your friends and fam.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more gift ideas!

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

Since cooking a Thanksgiving dinner takes a hot minute, it's not a bad idea to have some appetizerson-hand to serve your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving guests. Of course, you don’t want to have to spend a ton of time making snacks when you’re also preparing a feast – but that’s where these last-minute bites come in! These Thanksgiving appetizers will keep your guests satisfied until dinner, and they’re so easy to make, you won’t have to deal with any extra kitchen drama.

Without further ado, let's dive into these quick and easy Thanksgiving appetizers!

Sarah Anderson

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are such a reliable crowd-pleaser when it comes to Thanksgiving appetizer, or starters for any occasion, really! These 'shrooms in particular take inspiration from Greek cuisine and include tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, feta cheese, and salami. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Plant Provisions

Italian Savory Hand Pies

These hand pies are 100% vegan, so you can confidently serve them to a party of all diets. They're meaty, cheesy, herby, and definitely filling if you need to prep a decent snack ahead of your fancy Thanksgiving feast. (via Plant Provisions for Brit + Co)

Parmigiano Reggiano

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

Chocolate and cheese work surprisingly well together, and these creative dipped bites will certainly have all the foodies at the function buzzing. (via Parmigiano Reggiano for Brit + Co)

Snixy Kitchen

Butternut Squash and Bacon Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are such a classic snack, but they can easily become yummy Thanksgiving appetizers when you add butternut squash and bacon to the centers! (via Snixy Kitchen)

The Pioneer Woman

Perfect Fall Cheese Board

Transform your famous charcuterie board with fall accents to make a Thanksgivingappetizer that'll hit all the right taste buds. (via The Pioneer Woman)

Nutmeg Nanny

Sausage, Spinach and Mushroom Phyllo Cups

Don't you just love a bite-sized snack that's super quick to make? (via Nutmeg Nanny)

The Home Cook's Kitchen

Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Should your guests craves something that's creamy and crunchy, serve them these bready Thanksgiving appetizers. (via The Home Cook's Kitchen)

Half Baked Harvest

Baked French Onion Meatballs

What do you get when you combine the savory flavors of French onion soup and meatballs? We'll give you a hint — it has something to do with being irresistible. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Half Baked Harvest

Cheesy Bacon Holiday Crack

Warning: biting into these sweet, spicy, crispy, and cheesy chips is the point of no return, but it's so worth it. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Savory Tooth

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Two-ingredient appetizers are always a winner in our book, and this one is extra hearty. (via Savory Tooth)

Pizzazzerie

Candied Walnut Bruschetta

Candied walnuts are excellent on their own, so imagine how they taste with pears and goat cheese on toast. (via Pizzazzerie)

The Blond Cook

Crock-Pot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Soy sauce and brown sugar coat these mini hot dogs, and a touch of Sriracha makes them even more spice-tastic. (via The Blond Cook)

Sunkissed Kitchen

Roasted Carrot Hummus

Carrots and cinnamon are blended with classic hummus ingredients for a healthy dip to pair with pita chips. The pomegranate and pumpkin seed garnish really ups the presentation of this Thanksgiving appetizer. (via Sunkissed Kitchen)

Recipe Tin Eats

Caesar Salad Wonton Cups

Keep a package of wonton wrappers in the fridge, and you’ll never have to worry about what snacks to prep next for your party guests! This recipe stuffs the wraps with Caesar salad fixings, but the options are endless. (via Recipe Tin Eats)

The Real Food Dietitians

Chili and Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Even if you don’t have a ton of time, you can easily roast up a batch of these smoky mixed nuts before your guests arrive. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Tara's Multicultural Table

French Onion Soup Toasts

Turn French onion soup into a convenient appetizer with crusty bread, sautéed onions, and smoky cheese! Yummm. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)

The Recipe Critic

Raspberry Baked Brie

Smooth goat cheese and tart raspberry preserves are a match made in snack heaven. The crispy puff pastry layer makes it all worth it. (via The Recipe Critic)

Lavender and Lovage

Smoked Cheese and Onion Straws

If you have cheese lingering in your deli drawer, it’s the beginning of a tasty appetizer. Sprinkle it into some puff pastry for a twisty "straw" you'll reach for again and again. (via Lavender and Lovage)

The Seasoned Mom

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

The combo of chicken, bacon, and barbecue sauce results in a Thanksgiving appetizer that's almost impossible to stop eating. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Savory Tooth

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Bacon and Cheddar

Smokey bacon and salty, nutty cheddar top some earthy mushrooms for a new version of this classic stuffed app. (via Savory Tooth)

The Baking Fairy

Garlic-Stuffed Olives-in-a-Blanket

If you have vegetarian guests coming to your party, you’ll want to have a tasty option for them. These olives in a "blanket" do the trick nicely! As a bonus, most store-bought crescent roll dough is vegan. (via The Baking Fairy)

The Cookie Rookie

Best Cheese Ball

There's a reason why sharp cheddar cheese balls are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. Serve them with buttery Ritz crackers to reach total snack nirvana. (via The Cookie Rookie)

Half Baked Harvest

Whipped Goat Cheese with Warm Candied Bacon and Dates

Sweet and savory, this goat cheese dip is perfect for dipping crostini and vegetables in. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Live Eat Learn

Savory Roasted Cranberry Salsa

Top a cracker with sour cream (or brie or goat cheese) and spread on this cranberry salsa for a light, yet spicy-sweet bite. (via Live Eat Learn)

Amanda Wilens

Pear and Gouda Puff Pastry

Pear really finds its life's purpose when it's tucked into a square of puff pastry and topped with salty gouda cheese. (via Amanda Wilens)

Get more ideas and inspiration for your Thanksgiving appetizers and other festive holiday entertaining tips by following us on Pinterest or joining our newsletter.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Sara Cagle,Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.

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.