5 Must-Download Apps This Week for Fun Nights, Smarter Homes + More!

Jul 05, 2014

We know what you’re thinking this AM: Ohhh, too many fireworks, too many haute dawgs and too many (okay, never too many) Likes on that picture of you with the Uncle Sam ‘stache. Make July 5th the second best day of the month with a few downloads for your smart home and your smart self on your smartphone down below. It’s an all-new episode of What’s App-ening, coming at you live, right here, right now. And you can enjoy it all from the comfort of your bed. <3

1. New MakerBot Apps: To compete with the pending army of apps and printers that let you 3D print straight from your phone, MakerBot goes mobile with apps for your iPhone or iPad. Their latest download lets you explore and shop items on Thingiverse, scroll through your MakerBot library and print anything you want straight from either place. Spy on whatever you’re printing so you can monitor the process and how much time you have remaining. And, of course, there are handy share options so you can show off the goods as soon as they’re made.

Cost: Free for iOS

2. Wink: The Internet of Quirky Things is about to get a serious upgrade to its unifying app. Starting July 7, your smart home will have a whole new home on your phone and 60 Wink-enabled products will be shoppable in Home Depot stores across the country to hook you up even further. Using Wink, sync your Aros AC, your Reter energy meter and, someday, Palette, your at-home nail polish maker to monitor and control su casa from su phone. These are home improvements we can approve of.

Cost: Free for Android and iOS

3. Polymo: This photo app turns your camera roll into its own carefully categorized social network for your eyes only to sift and browse through. Tag that photo from last night as Summer, July 4th and Friends and it will hang out in each category and show up whenever you search for each tag. Similar to Overswipe, which we talked about last week, this can even hide some photos in a private, password-protected folder.

Cost: $1.99 for iOS

4. YPlan: You know that friend that you don’t hang out with all the time, but when it’s time to party, you’re like, “Yo, girl, wuz up?” This is that app. But even better. It’s a going out gateway that wants to hook you up in the moment so you have a good tonight, every night. Open it up and it offers ideas and a two-tap purchase system for events nearby, happening that night. A couple coworkers and I used it to nab tickets to an after hours science museum event this week, and right this second, I could go get a flight of beer and apps (the other kind of apps) for only $19 at a brewery in my ‘hood. Uh… brb!

Cost: Free for Android and iOS

5. Facebook Messenger for iPad: If you’re not on a Facebook boycott right now (and you have every right to be) and you chat best with a tablet in your lap, Facebook Messenger now lets you send friends stickers, smiles and yes, plain text on your iPad.

Cost: Free for iPad (and all iOS devices)

BONUS: ICYMI Edition!!

We show you and your phone a good time all week here at Brit + Co, so to help you stay in the loop, I’m going to start rounding up our favorite apps from the ENTIRE week every Saturday in case you missed them the first write up around. Sound good? Thought so ;)

– Digital Detox Apps: Need some tips and downloads to help you chill out this weekend and beyond? Here are nine!

– Ringly: The prettier than the average wearable ring announced eight new apps that it will sync with once it’s on your dainty little finger come fall.

– Keep: This is one tap shopping at its awesomest.

– Passe-Parout: So you think you can choreograph a ballet from your tablet? Yeah, you can with this download.

– FitList: This app turns your phone into a personal trainer, tracking your workouts and helping you piece together new ones. #BikiniSeason

What apps did you download this week? Which app have you downloaded from our lists? Share it with us below!

25 Zany State Fair Food-Inspired Recipes

The season’s just not complete until you’ve seen a sculpture made of butter and stuffed your face full of charred sweet corn, funnel cakes and whatever absurd exotic meat you can find. Fairs are full of memories of candy and petting zoos (essentially every child's favorite things) and it's easier than you think to add some of your favorite state fair foods into your weeknight dinner — without having to leave the comfort of your home.

From the classic to the ridiculously ridiculous, we’ve dug up all sorts of recipes to help you make a feast of state fair-inspired foods at home. Your apartment and hair may forever smell like a deep-fryer afterwards, but it’s a small price to pay.

Image via Brit + Co

Homemade Funnel Cake

If you're a big fan of fried goodies, then you *have* to make this treat. It's the perfect mix of hot, sticky, and sweet, and definitely satisfies those fair food cravings. You can split it among a bunch of people like your friends or your family...or you can eat it all yourself.

Image via Saveur

State Fair Corn Dogs

Even with all the new, hyped-up, experimental foods each year, there’s nothing like a classic corn dog. This recipe calls for a Dutch oven in lieu of a deep fryer.

Image via Fresh Tart

Gluten-Free Fried Cheese Curds

FRIED. CHEESE. CURDS. It’s only fitting that a Minnesota blogger would get this wholly Midwestern indulgence exactly right.

Image via Leite’s Culinaria

Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

This might be the most American thing to ever have happened. We recommend you don’t skip the optional white chocolate ganache topping. U-S-A. U-S-A. U-S-A…

Image via Food.com

Puckerin’ Pickle Popsicles

Half of you are probably gagging right now, half (like us) are pretty excited to try this weird pickle juice pop. Cocktail possibilities, anyone?

Image via James vs. Burger

Krispy Kreme Burger

Apparently, Luther Vandross claimed to have come up with the Krispy Kreme burger while on tour. Because, why not?

Image via Kirbie’s Cravings

Fried Cookie Dough

We’re digging this fried cookie-dough concoction. It’s simple if you buy the store-bought stuff.

Image via Leite’s Culinaria

Frozen Chocolate-Covered Bananas

There’s always money in the banana stand. This recipe — which mixes the peanut coating with pieces of crispy bacon — is MONEY.

Image via Pioneer Woman

Caveman Pops (Roasted Turkey Legs)

Inspired by the behemoth meat drummies of state fairs and Medieval Times alike, a good brine makes this recipe a success.

Image via BS in the Kitchen

Cherry Pie

If you’re looking to take home a blue ribbon, here’s the secret.

Image via The Little Kitchen

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

It is your duty as an American to deep fry everything, including macaroni.

Image via Framed Cooks

Maple Chocolate Bacon Skewers

There’s nothing more fair-friendly than chocolate-covered bacon on a stick.

Image via The Messy Baker

Fried Avocado

Oh, California. You would try to keep healthy with your fair food. Well, not exactly healthy… but it’s no fried Coke.

Image via Serious Eats

Deep-Fried Coca-Cola

This dish involves infusing Bisquick batter with real Coca Cola — don’t you dare try to use diet in this Southern fair recipe.

Image via Bon Appétit

Deep-Fried Spaghetti and Meatballs On-a-Stick

Minnesota is at it again. Do the laws of physics even apply to this?

Image via Food Fire

Grilled Corn Sweet Corn

If you need a break from all the fried fodder, sweet corn is a must!

Image via Created by Diane

Fried Oreos

Anybody can fry a Snickers bar, but we are partial to the creamy, gooey Oreos.

Image via King Arthur Baking

Cream Puffs and Éclairs

This is Wisconsin’s official dessert. At their state fair, it’s served on a large dinner plate.

Image via Dude Foods

Beer and Bacon Battered Deep Fried White Castle Sliders

Get outta here, Orange County. What have you done?!

Image via Half Baked Harvest

Monster Crunchies

Just in time for the back-to-school season, these monster crunchies are a wacky snack the whole family will love.

Image via Tornadough Alli

Kool Aid Pickles

Kool-aid can be great by itself but pairing it with pickles creates a sweet and tangy treat you'll surprisingly want more of.

Image via Pink Owl Kitchen

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Deep fried foods and state fairs seem to go hand-in-hand. We're not complaining though.

Image via Where Is My Spoon

Puff Pastry Plum Tarts

Craving something sweet and sticky? Bake this easy puff pastry plum tarts recipe. You'll love the sweet blend of plums, brown sugar and flaky crust.

Image via Cilantro Parsley

Flamin Hot Cheetos Corn (Elote)

This is grilled sweet corn's spicier sister. With flaming hot cheetos baked on top, this corn on the cob recipe is going to quickly become a guilty food pleasure.

Image via Cozy Cravings

Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies

What happens when you mix chocolate, peanut butter and rice krispies together? You get treats that are sure to give you a sugar rush.

What’s the craziest fair food you’ve ever eaten? Let us know on Instagram!

This post has been updated.

Header image via Kirbie’s Cravings

Your Ultimate Guide To Holiday Shopping In 2024

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!

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What Would A TikTok Ban Mean For Small Businesses?

Amid dire concerns that TikTok threatens U.S. national security, bans against the app have spread like wildfire. Beyond just government devices, some universities initiated bans, with the latest policy talks going as far as to include personal devices as well. Though it’s unlikely that the platform will be completely banned (there are other proposed solutions, like selling the app or amending its data policies) due to free speech, the possibility of a ban raises another concern: the livelihood of small businesses.

TikTok is a central avenue for small businesses to promote their products and services, with special thanks to its algorithm, says Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO at Financer.com.

“The platform's unique algorithm, which prioritizes content discovery and virality, has enabled many small businesses to reach and connect with potential customers in a way that wasn't possible through traditional social media platforms,” says Larsson. “Since its growth has been exponential throughout the years as a key marketing channel, the ban triggered the markets for sure.”

TikTok also masters the art of connection. Your For You Page knows exactly what you like to see. This gives small businesses the ability to get closer to their audience and reach more success that way, says saysLynzee Krohne, Founder of branding agency LEO + LAINE.

"On TikTok, brands have the freedom and space to be more casual and less branded," Krohne said. "Because of the nature of TikTok, it allows brands to let their guard down a bit and create content that may be a little more rough around the edges—which helps them appear to be much more authentic to their audience."

Jessica Tran, founder of @jtmobiledetailing, says 60% of customers choose her car detailing shop because they saw it on TikTok. Jaz and Sam Sears, owners and operators of@aztaco.king, grew their business from a food cart in a parking lot to two restaurants in less than 6 months, due to their success on the app. Megan Gersch, a web designer and brand identity creator, says around half of her client base comes from TikTok, which often turn into 4 to 5-figure contracts.

This positive growth for small biz is commonly attributed to the app’s distinctive features that connect creators with consumers, such as live video streaming, a virality-driven algorithm, and the ability for users to personalize their daily feeds.

“TikTok has been a great tool for allowing me to connect with my audience on a deeper level,” says Gersch. “There's a special magic that happens with video marketing that you can't achieve with a text or static image post. Your audience gets to know your quirks, your mannerisms, and they start to feel like they know you, even though you've never met. Every time you see a new video from one of your favorite creators, it's like a FaceTime call from a trusted friend.”

In its absence, small business TikTokers would have no choice but to adapt and pivot their marketing strategies, which is not always easy when they’re doing it DIY-style, says Larsson.

“While small businesses may be able to find success on other social media channels, the competition for visibility and engagement is often more intense [than on TikTok], making it harder for them to stand out. The time and effort required to establish a new presence and create content tailored to the specific characteristics of other platforms could be a significant burden on small business owners.”

Small businesses pivoting to other platforms might face different struggles for exposure, due to consumers being very platform-specific, according to Krohne.

"If [TikTok] brands begin to focus their content efforts on Instagram, they’re up against multiple types of content, and competing in a more content-saturated world," Krohne told us. "TikTok mostly has one content offering, and that’s why it’s insanely popular. There’s a difference between platforms. Brands must diversify their content and show up in other places to keep a steady stream of touchpoints to remain top of mind and memorable."

Though Gersch is no stranger to restrategizing, a potential TikTok ban would still impact her business as a web designer and brand creator.

“I've been a marketer for 16+ years, and one thing that I have learned along the way is that you need to constantly test, look at your analytics, and create where the attention is,” says Gersch. “If TikTok goes away, there will be a huge gap in the market that will need to be filled.”

TikTok recognizes the work that small business owners take on in order to find success, which is why the platform has committed $1 million each to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to elevate entrepreneurship in the Latin community, and Black Girl Ventures to support Black and Brown women entrepreneurs.

“Five million US businesses turn to TikTok to take us inside their world in a fun, authentic way, and as a result, they are reaching new customers, hiring more employees and growing their business,” says Becca Sawyer, Global Head of SMB for TikTok. “By partnering with HHF and BGV and launching virtual workshops, we're strengthening our commitment to build an inclusive and supportive platform where small business owners and entrepreneurs can share their story, find their audience and drive real business results."

We can’t make a solid prediction for the destiny of the beloved app for now, but we do know that it’ll be dearly missed by small businesses and consumers alike if bans (at any capacity) go through.

“I don't want Tiktok to be banned - not only is it an integral part of my business, but I have also been able to connect with so many incredible people that I wouldn't have met otherwise,” says Gersch. “It's my go-to source for inspiration, learning, and even a good laugh.”

Sign up for our newsletter for more takes on current events. Follow us on TikTok to catch exclusive content!

Illustration by Claire Shadomy

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When Is Starbucks' Red Cup Day?

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.

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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.

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