20 Of Our Favorite Takes On Traditional Hanukkah Recipes

hanukkah recipeshanukkah recipes

The eight nights of Hanukkah, AKA the Festival of Lights, begins on December 18 this year, and we say bring on the feast! While potato latkes are seemingly everyone's go-to among Hanukkah recipes, there's more than one way to skin a potato, so to speak. Whether you want to substitute sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, or just get super creative with the sauces (Sriracha, kimchi, or anchovy aioli anyone?), we have a recipe for you.

And that's only the beginning. Are you a noodle or a tater kugel gal? Brisket or short ribs? Vegetarian? Gluten-free? Whatever your answer, we've got a dish that will please your palate. Here are 20 creative takes on everyone's favorite Hanukkah foods.


Hanukkah Baked Veggie Tots

These little bites of goodness are just like the tater tots you loved as a kid, but dressed up with Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. It's a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have on hand. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potato Kale Latkes With Lemon Green Onion Parsley Sauce

This sweet potato-kale version of everyone's favorite fried potato cake is spiced with smoked paprika, making the taste out-of-this-world delicious. The dipping sauce provides the needed creaminess that always complements latkes so well. (via Further Food)

Manischewitz Braised Short Ribs With Horseradish Gremolata

Sweet boozy, grapey Manischewitz is balanced by salty beef broth, tomato paste, and herbs and transformed into the tastiest sauce a beef bone ever saw. Make sure you grab a latke (or two) to soak up every last drop of this delicious juice. (via What Jew Wanna Eat)

Challah 

This recipe should come with a warning. Soft and chewy, salty and slightly sweet, it's so delicious that once you taste it, there will be no going back to store-bought ever again. Prepared for a lifetime of holiday baking? Go ahead, then, and take a bite! (viaDelicious Shots)

Sweet Potato and Carrot Latke-Linis With Whipped Goat Cheese and Smoked Salmon

Carrots in your latkes? Topped with smoked salmon and chives, these babies are clearly not the usual fare. Everyone will be SO impressed with this rustic and creative interpretation of their traditional holiday fave. (via A Clean Bake)

Chocolate Chili Rugelach

What's not to love about a rich cream cheese dough that's filled with goodness and rolled up like a little croissant? Traditionally, rugelach are filled with nuts and jam, but this recipe calls for chocolate with just a pinch of cayenne that takes them to next-level amazing. (via What Jew Wanna Eat)

Jelly Doughnuts (Sufganiyot)

If deep-fried yeasty dough is essential to your holiday lighting ritual, you're going to love this recipe. While these are filled the customary way, with jam, you can sub any filling you like, including Nutella, butterscotch, caramel, pastry cream, lemon curd, and so on. (via Pretty Simple Sweet)

Potato and Beet Latkes With Kimchi and Sriracha Aioli

The kimchi in these latkes packs such a hit of pungent flavor — sweet, spicy, and salty — that you won't need to do much more to season them. But it's that final dollop of Sriracha aioli that's simply irresistible; don't even think of leaving it out. (via Little Kitchen, Big World)

How to Make a Savory Kugel Without a Recipe

If you grew up loving your bubbe's kugel but didn't inherit the recipe, this holiday-friendly casserole is easy peasy and oh-so-good. While some kugels are made with potatoes, this one's dense and rich with egg noodles. One bite and you'll be in cheesy-noodle heaven. (via Food52)

Homemade Hanukkah Gelt

These gold-dipped chocolate coins are super simple to make, and look (almost) too pretty to eat. The secret is edible gold luster dust that you brush right on top of the cooled chocolate. (via Oh Nuts)

Taro Latkes With Sriracha Lime Cream Sauce

Starchy taro makes latkes that are even crisper than the potato originals. The Sriracha and lime cream sauce is so tangy and delicious, you'd better make a double batch, because everyone will want to nosh. (viaBuilicious)

Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

Brisket is one of those seriously underrated cuts of beef that's cheap enough to feed a crowd and perfect for slow cooking in the oven or crock pot. This recipe is served on a bed of mashed potatoes and kale, but feel free to serve it up with latkes. (via My Fussy Eater)

Strawberry Challah Bread Pudding

Soft, buttery challah smothered in vanilla custard and strawberry sauce is the ultimate sweet finish to your Hanukkah dinner. Better put on some stretchy pants, because the leftovers the next day are twice as good. (via Mitzy at Home)

Savory Sufganiyot With Swiss Chard and Raisins

Stuffed with freshly sautéed veggies, sharp feta cheese, and herbs, this savory doughnut recipe is so delicious, you'll be starting a new tradition. (via The Little Ferraro Kitchen)

Gluten-Free Vegan Noodle Kugel Dessert

If you thought a good noodle kugel is basically gluten, eggs, sugar, and dairy in a serving dish, you're in for a sweet surprise. This modern take on the traditional dish is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and refined sugar-free — so it's something everyone at your table can enjoy. (via Unconventional Baker)

Challah Bread Pudding + Vanilla Creme Anglaise

You're already making the challah, so bread pudding is the natural progression. Just add walnuts, pecans, and raisins (or better yet, bourbon-soaked raisins) and it's ALL good. (via Hey Modest Marce)

Grandma's Noodle Kugel Makeover

Cheese, noodles, graham crackers, and cinnamon — does that sound like your bubbe's kugel? This version swaps out full-fat cheeses for low-fat, nonfat Greek yogurt for sour cream, and coconut oil for the stick of butter, but it tastes so cinnamon-y good that no one will ever know the difference. (via Healthy Recipe Ecstasy)

Zengoula (Iraqi Funnel Cakes)

These squiggles of deep fried dough known in the Middle East as zengoula (or jalabi), celebrate the oil-light miracle of Hanukkah. The out-of-the-ordinary shape makes a fun change from traditional jelly doughnuts, and the tart lemon syrup is out of this world. (via Food52)

Gluten-Free Brussels Sprout Latkes With Anchovy Aioli

Move over, potatoes; these gluten-free latkes feature a new vegetable star: grated Brussels sprouts! Brussels are a much dryer vegetable, and as any yenta knows, the less moisture in the batter, the crispier the latkes. (via Feed Me Phoebe)

Potato Kugel Cups

These kugels in a cup just make so much sense. Now every piece is a crusty corner, and no one has to compete to get a *crunchy* slice. (viaJoy of Kosher)

If you just love a clever take on a traditional Hanukkah dish, follow us on Pinterest for more!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Some families get together for Easter brunch, while others sit down for dinner. Then there are those who may find themselves eating all day on Easter Sunday. Whatever your plans this year include, find inspiration in this collection of dinner recipes for quiches, vibrant salads, savory tarts, and more. They will hit the spot any time of day and offer up ideas for all season long.

Half Baked Harvest

Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Prosciutto

Here's a twist on an Easter ham: make this classic comfort food with warm, crisp prosciutto, Italian-style chicken with basil pesto and bright asparagus. (via Half Baked Harvest)

GastroPlant

Easy Lentil and Sweet Potato Chili

Easter dinner ideas should be light, yet flavorful. For this dish, use cumin and garlic to accent the chili powder in this comforting and brunch-friendly vegan chili. (via GastroPlant)

This Wife Cooks

Black Bean Meatloaf

Whip up old-school-style meatloaf made with protein-packed black beans and quinoa. Serve with your favorite Easter sides. (via This Wife Cooks)

Brit + Co

Spring Vegetable Galette

You don’t need to be a pastry expert to make a beautifully cheesy, crispy galette. Don't worry if this doesn't come out looking perfect — the more crags and “rustic” bits there are in the crust, the better it looks. (via Brit + Co)

Forks & Foliage

Asparagus Puff Pastry Tart With Eggs And Feta

Pair this lemony and cheesy tart with your favorite mimosa recipe for a savory brunch (or dinner!) (via Forks & Foliage)

Feel Good Foodie

Rosemary Roasted Whole Chicken

Prepare to graze all day over this roasted chicken with fresh rosemary, lemon, garlic, and shallots. It's sure to become one of your family's favorite Easter dinner ideas. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Veggie Society)

Vegan Split Pea Soup

Blend creamy split green peas and golden potatoes for a meat- and dairy-free soup that's so delicious.(via Veggie Society)

A Spicy Perspective

Baked Ham With Honey Mustard And Apples

Slather your baked ham with honey mustard glaze, stuff it with apples and bake to perfection! Ham sandwiches for days!(via A Spicy Perspective)

Takes Two Eggs

Vietnamese Cajun Shrimp Boil

Break out some Easter bibs for this crowd-pleasing cajun shrimp boil made with juicy shrimp, corn, baby potatoes, and smoked sausages.(via Takes Two Eggs)

Culinary Hill

Pork Tenderloin with Figs And Balsamic Glaze

A delicious balsamic glaze flavored with seasonal figs make an amazing sauce over pork tenderloin. (via Culinary Hill)

Barley & Sage

Chicken Pastina Soup

Pastina, or "little pasta," refers to any type of tiny pasta and makes for a kid-friendly Easter or anytime meal. (via Barley & Sage)

Salt & Lavender

Creamy Dijon Rosemary Chicken

Made with just a few ingredients, this creamy chicken dish should be at the top of your Easter dinner ideas list. (via Salt & Lavender)

Sesame Peanut Soba Noodle Salad

We love this colorful twist on an Easter pasta salad made with crunchy purple cabbage, sweet carrots, edamame and noodles tossed together in a sweet and spicy peanut dressing. (via Munching With Mariyah)

RachL Mansfield

Lemony Spring Pasta Salad

The lemon dijon dressing is the clincher in this delightful healthy dish made with gluten-free pasta. (via RachL Mansfield)

The Endless Meal

Brussel Sprouts Pizza With Blue Cheese

Why not pizza for Easter brunch or dinner? Roasted Brussel sprouts, caramelized onions, and blue cheese is a cozy twist and ready in under an hour! (via The Endless Meal)

Cozy Cravings

Baked Chicken And Leeks

Creamy potatoes, lemony leeks, and juicy marinated chicken served with a garlicky greek yogurt sauce is a meal we'd make any time. Just add a glass of wine! (via Cozy Cravings)

Two Spoons

Spring Mix Salad With Lemon-Baked Tofu

This colorful spring salad is packed with lemon tofu, edamame, creamy avocado, crunchy radish, fresh mint, and citrus, and will look stunning on your Easter table. (via Two Spoons)

Live Eat Learn

Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie

Carrots, celery, mushrooms, peas and corn are topped with fluffy mashed potatoes made with Greek yogurt in this easy-to-prepare dish that's also so satisfying. It's one of our healthier Easter dinner ideas. (viaLive Eat Learn)

Brit + Co

Cauliflower Rice Casserole

Ooey, gooey, and filling, this casserole is enough of a showstopper to take centerstage at your Easter dinner, but is also laidback enough to make for an amazing breakfast. We added zucchini, kale, and mushrooms, but feel free to jazz it up with your favorite veggies. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Bruléed Grapefruit Tart

Ok so this tart couldn't exactly stand on its own as an entrée (unless you're having a ton of desserts for dinner, which we're on board with) but it will definitely make for a colorful and fruity addition to any Easter table. (via Brit + Co)

Cilantro Parsley

Chicken Piccata With Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This chicken piccata made with paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and artichokes is keto and gluten-free. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Brit + Co

Gluten-Free Avocado Fries

For a healthier take on a fan-favorite finger food (wow, what a mouthful), bake some avocados. This recipe calls for a dash of salt and a spicy aioli, but you can swap for something sweeter. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Blueberry Lavender Fizz

You can't have Easter dinner without some cute Easter cocktails! Whether you sip during dinner or wait until the kids have gone to bed, these blueberry lavender drinks have spring written all over them. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Maple and Pear-Glazed Easter Ham

Ham in and of itself might seem like a pretty simple dish, but in addition to how flavorful this recipe is on its own, there are so many different ways to eat it! Pair it with pineapple, put it on a salad, or have it on top of a biscuit. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pressure-Cooker Ramekin Eggs

Your favorite veg, eggs, and cream go into individual ramekins, get pressure-cooked, and come out ever-so slightly soft so you can spread the whole thing over toast. It works just as well for dinner as it does brunch. (via Brit + Co)

What’s Gaby Cooking?

Spring Pea Salad

This stunning salad will have your guests’ jaws on the floor. Bonus points if you flourish it with edible spring flowers. (via What’s Gaby Cooking?)

Brit + Co

Fettuccine Carbonara

This eggs-and-bacon pasta transitions seamlessly from a mimosa-filled brunch to an Italian-themed dinner, and satisfices any time of day. (viaBrit + Co)

Drizzle and Dip

Shaved Asparagus and Pea Frittata With Mint and Parma Ham

Breakfast for dinner is always a treat, especially when it comes in the form of a frittata that's packed with veggies and garnished with salty, dry-cured ham. (via Drizzle and Dip)

Brit + Co

Sweet Crepes

Round out your dinner (or start your brunch) with some delicious crepes that will satisfy your sweet tooth without leaving you overstuffed. Some classic fillings are strawberries and creme, chocolate, or even cheese and jam. (via Brit + Co)

Dinner at the Zoo

Easy Chicken Spaghetti

Your entire family will fall madly in love with this easy-peasy pasta dish. Tossed with crisp asparagus and tender chicken strips, the spaghetti is fancy enough for Easter dinner, yet quick enough to throw together for a last-minute brunch. (via Dinner at the Zoo)

Potato-Crust Quiche Lorraine

You’ll forget pastry crust ever existed when you bite into this hashbrown-crusted quiche, which is filled with a silky mixture of eggs, half and half, and shredded Gruyère. Our mouths are already watering. (via Brit + Co)

Chef Bai

Cilantro And Calabrian Pasta Salad

This herb and spicy twist on a classic pasta salad recipe is dairy free, egg free, and packed with more than 11 veggies inside for a healthy meal you'll all love. (via Chef Bai)

Brie, Bacon, and Butternut Squash Risotto

This customizable recipe will be delicious no matter what cheese, veggies, and herbs you choose — just don’t leave out the crispy bacon. You won't think twice about adding this to your Easter dinner ideas notebook! (via Brit + Co)

The Original Dish

Spiced Chicken Thighs with Garlic Tahini Yogurt

This tasty easter dinner recipe looks the perfect spring meal. From the tahini yogurt to the pomegranate glazed carrots, it looks like a lightweight, but filling recipe we want to perfect! (via The Original Dish)

Kathryn's Kitchen Blog

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Crispy smashed potatoes are right up our alley because they feel like we're cheating on our usual french fry orders. But we especially love the addition of smoky roasted and garlic parmesan flavors. Each bite feels like a party in your mouth. (via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog)

Vanilla and Bean

Broccoli Rabe Frittata With Pesto Ricotta

Is this a brunch or dinner recipe? According to Traci of Vanilla and Bean, it's up to you! We prefer to make it after a long day at work because it feels like a treat. Plus, it's a great option for anyone who loves vegetarian or gluten-freen meals. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Forks and Foliage

Beef and Lamb Shawarma Wraps

Wherever there's a wrap recipe, you'll find us salivating over it! But this beef and lamb shawarma meal may be the best we've ever tasted. You'll also need a little bit of yogurt, garlic cloves, paprika, and more amazing spices to help it reach it's full glory. (via Forks and Foliage)

Follow us on Pinterest and check out our email newsletter for more Easter dinner ideas!

This post has been updated.

We're only one week away from The White Lotus finale — and finally answering the biggest question of all: who dies in The White Lotus season 3? Here's your official reminder that Mike White never passes up the opportunity for a death to be accidental & ironic (not to mention the character's fault), meaning we probably don't need to be looking for a murderer. And there's one White Lotus theory that suggests the killer's been in front of our faces the whole time: the poisonous pong pong fruit.

Here's a truly genius White Lotus theory about the season 3 finale, Saxon, and that poisonous fruit.

'The White Lotus' season 3 death will probably be another egomaniacal accident.

Theories are running rampant around who dies in The White Lotus season 3 finale — and who's responsible. But @popcultureari points out that, "In previous seasons we've seen how Mike White builds a ridiculous amount of tension between all the characters only to have the loose ends tied up with some ironic twist. And the main deaths aren't about killers lurking in the shadows, they're about people tripping over their own egos."

Remember when Tanya tripped in her heels, hit her head, and then drowned? "So in season 3, the body won't be from some shocking murder, it'll be from another self sabotage masterpiece," she continues. And the leading suspect? That poisonous fruit introduced in the first episode.

And it could cost the Ratliff family Saxon, Harper, and Lochlan.

More than one fan is wondering whether Jason Isaac's Timothy Ratliff will make a smoothie with the poisonous fruit to end his own life (since he doesn't have the gun anymore), and someone else will accidentally drink it. "There's a reason why they specifically mentioned the poison fruit so early on," one user says in the comments, while another points out how the camera always zooms into the blender.

But the most devastating take on this theory to me? That "I also do believe there will be 3 deaths because Chelsea keeps bringing up that bad things happen in 3s," another comment says. "3 siblings, 3 Russians, 3 friends."

More comments applaud @popcultureari for coming up with "such a good theory," but if Timothy makes the smoothie in The White Lotus season 3 finale, and then all three kids somehow end up dead, y'all will need to check on me!

What do you think about this White Lotus theory? Are you excited for the finale? Read up on The Most "Batsh—t" Yellowjackets Theory: "Everything Came Together" before the finale airs.

Easteris over, and now, you have more leftover pastelcandy than you know what to do with! Don't stash it in your cabinet until Halloween (trick or treaters don't deserve that). Instead, give your Easter candy new life with these colorful leftover Easter candy recipes. You'll be surprised at how far Easter M&M's and Cadbury chocolate eggs can go!

Brit + Co

Cadbury Creme Eggs Rocky Road Bar

This rocky road-inspired candy bar made with creme eggs is as colorful, gooey, chocolatey, and creamy as they come. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Easter Chocolate Bark

You can use any Easter candy you want to create this treat. Just make sure it's chocolate on chocolate on chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Peeps S'mores

Turn regular ol' s'mores into brightly-colored dessert sandwiches with chocolate-dipped graham crackers, and a pastel gooey marshmallow center – no campfire necessary. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Caramel Candy-Apple Nachos

Who needs chips and queso when you have leftover Easter candy recipes that include apples, caramel, and Heath bars? Pile on a crumbled Heath Bar and some walnuts over the top of these dessert nachos and instantly ease that sweet tooth. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cadbury Cocktail

After all the Easter festivities, you deserve a drink. This is the perfect libation that uses leftover Easter candy: a smooth and sweet combination of vanilla vodka, milk of your choice, and the best part of a Cadbury Egg (the insides, obviously)! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cadbury Creme Egg Pop Tarts

Creations like these pastries make for the best leftover Easter candy recipes. Stuff these pastry pockets full of Cadbury eggs, and boom, you've got dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Giant Cadbury Creme Egg Cheesecake Dip

This decadent entertaining dessert would also be excellent for an Easter brunch! (via Brit + Co)

A Zesty Bite

Candylicious Junkyard Cookies

This cookie recipe is all about cleaning out your candy jar. Sure, it calls for specific candies like M&M's and Kit Kat bars, but you can throw in whatever chocolate-based candy you have on hand. Trust us: your cookie will come out equally delicious. (via A Zesty Bite)

BRACH's Jelly Bean Pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon white sugar
  • 1 1⁄4 cups milk
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 cups BRACH’S® Classic Jelly Beans plus 1⁄2 cup as toppings
  • Whipped cream, for topping
Directions:
  1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar.
  2. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg and melted butter; mix until smooth.
  3. Mix in BRACH’S® Classic Jelly Beans.
  4. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat.
  5. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1⁄4 cup for each pancake. Flip and brown on both sides.
  6. Once cooked through, remove from griddle. Let cool. Top with whipped cream and extra BRACH’S®Jelly Beans and enjoy!

(via BRACH's)

Melanie Makes

Jelly Bean Donuts

Finally, a socially-acceptable way to eat jelly beans for breakfast! If you don't have a donut pan handy, that's okay. You can also make jelly bean muffins! (via Melanie Makes)

Tastes Better from Scratch

Chocolate Cadbury Egg Cookies

Chocolate lovers will go wild for these Easter-y cookies. For starters, the cookie base is chocolate. What's even better is the Cadbury eggs are five times as big as chocolate chips. That's more chocolate per inch of cookie! (via Tastes Better from Scratch)

Crazy for Crust

Candy Bar Pie

Put your leftover pie crust and leftover Easter candy to good use with this pie. Sure, this is more like a giant cookie in the shape of a pie, but we're still in heaven. (via Crazy for Crust)

A Pumpkin & A Princess

Marbled Jelly Bean Bark

Why should peppermint bark get all the glory? Jelly beans liven up white chocolate bark with spring colors in this delish treat. Bonus: this leftover Easter candy recipe only requires *three* ingredients. (via A Pumpkin & A Princess)

Something Swanky

Bunny Chow

Dress up puppy chow for some bunny in your life. Though this recipe needs only four ingredients, feel free to add more candy or your favorite nuts to this sweet, crunchy snack mix. (via Something Swanky)

The Domestic Rebel

Peeps Candy Bars

It's a fact: food becomes irresistible when it's brightly colored and pretty — also if it's topped with sugar coated marshmallows! Okay, so that might not be a statistic yet, but based on these Peeps candy bars, we can vouch for it. (via The Domestic Rebel)

Dessert Now Dinner Later

Peanut Butter Chocolate Nests

This leftover Easter candy dessert is a work of art, both in your mouth and to the naked eye. It's an adorable bird's nest that you can eat! Chocolate, peanut butter, and pretzels are a dream team that don't get enough credit. (via Dessert Now Dinner Later)

How Sweet Eats

Chocolate Peanut Butter Peeps Skillet S'mores

Need s'more s'mores? We got you with this gooey, chocolatey, peanut buttery dip, topped with golden brown leftover Peeps. Grab a graham cracker, and dig in. (via How Sweet Eats)

Leelalicious

Leftover Candy Stuffed Brownies

This delicious brownie recipe is filled with all your favorite Easter candy (or whatever candy you happen to have on hand). Swap out butter for coconut oil for a slightly healthier twist. By that logic, we'll have two, please. (via Leelalicious)

Deliciously Sprinkled

Cadbury Brownie Bites

You could always hide your leftover Easter candy, or you can just hide them inside these delicious brownie bites! (via Deliciously Sprinkled)

BRACH's Jelly Bean Cinnabunnies

Ingredients:

  • BRACH’S® Classic Jelly Beans
  • Store-bought jumbo-size cinnamon rolls
  • White frosting

Directions:

  1. Unwrap the first layer of dough from the outside of each cinnamon roll. Remove and set aside.
  2. Place the dough that is still rolled on your baking sheet, widely spaced; these will be your bunny heads.
  3. Tear the removed outer layers into two smaller pieces, about 2.5” each.
  4. Loosely fold each 2.5” piece in half and pinch the ends together to form the bunny’s ears.
  5. Take two folded pieces and lightly press the bases together onto a roll to form the full bunny.
  6. Bake according to package instructions. Decorate with frosting and jelly beans once cooled!

(via BRACH's)

Delightful E Made

Spring Krispie Cake With M&M's and Candy Drizzle

This Rice Krispies cake doubles as a colorful center piece for your Easter table spread. Melt down some Peeps and mix with the famed cereal. If you're using Peeps of varying colors, melt each color down separately, and mix cereal in portions for a tie-dye effect. (via Delightful E Made)

Two Sisters Crafting

Easter Candy Popcorn

Put a spin on sweet and salty popcorn with a butter marshmallow sauce. It's like a more indulgent version of kettle corn that coats your popcorn in a sticky, sweet, and buttery sauce. Add Easter M&M's and candy-coated chocolate eggs to make this the perfect post-Easter snack! (via Two Sisters Crafting)

Kirbie's Cravings

Leftover Easter Candy Mug Cake

This single serving of cake is just the emergency sweet treat you keep on-hand when you need a little “me time." Just toss in a handful of Easter M&M's into a mug along with flour, milk, and baking powder. Voila! Your sweet tooth is satisfied in under five minutes using ingredients you already had in your pantry. (via Kirbie's Cravings)

Averie Cooks

Chocolate Peanut Butter Kit Kat Crunch Bars

This leftover Easter candy recipe looks too good to be true! We love these crunchy homemade candy bars topped with our favorite twin chocolate wafer bars. (via Averie Cooks)

Domestic Superhero

Twix Cheesecake Bars

Creamy cheesecake + crunchy Twix Bars = the ultimate Easter dessert. Drizzle the top with chocolate and caramel right before serving to complete this masterpiece. (via Domestic Superhero)

Pink Owl Kitchen

Easter Cookie Cake

If you grew up loving cookie cakes, you'll love using your leftover Easter candy to make your own homemade version! You'll love the warm and tantalizing taste of peanut butter, but it's the mini chocolate eggs that really make this recipe shine. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy + delicious recipe ideas!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Gabi Conti and Meredith Holser.

I love hosting and making my guests feel at home. And living in a tourist destination (Sonoma wine country) means I get a lot of them — especially as the weather warms up. Over time, I’ve learned that creating a warm, welcoming space doesn’t have to mean stress or all-day prep. Guests only seem to notice a few key things, not whether you color-coded your bookshelf or spring cleaned your closets. Whether it’s a casual dinner party or an overnight stay, these simple steps make a big difference before guests arrive.

Here are six things you should always do before guests arrive.

Askar Abayev

Do a Quick Clutter Sweep

You don’t need to deep-clean — just focus on visible clutter. Clear off countertops, coffee tables, and entryways. Short on time? Just toss items into a basket and tuck them away in a closet.

Anna Shvets

Light a Candle Or Diffuse A Favorite Scent

Set the mood with a seasonal or favorite scent, like vanilla, amber, or something citrusy. It instantly makes your space feel warm and inviting. I like to put one in the guest bathroom too for a little surprise.

Have a little time? You can also simmer citrus and your favorite herbs on the stove.

You’ll Need:

  • Citrus slices like oranges, lemons, or limes
  • A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
  • 1–2 cinnamon sticks or whole cloves
  • A splash of vanilla extract

Steps:

  1. Slice your citrus thinly. Try a mix of orange and lemon for a bright, balanced scent.
  2. Fill a pot with water, about ¾ full.
  3. Add your ingredients to the water.
  4. Bring to a simmer over low heat. As the mixture warms, the scent will start to fill your space. (Keep an eye on the water level, and add more as it evaporates.)

Kaboompics.com

Prep the Bathroom

Nothing makes guests feel more "ick" than a dirty or messy bathroom so prioritize this space. Wipe down the sink and toilet, put out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s enough toilet paper.

taylor hernandez on Unsplash

Set the Mood with Music or Lighting

I make sure to switch off all the overheads (not a fan of this harsh lighting) and turn on table lamps for a cozy vibe. Then cue up a Spotify "dinner party" playlist that matches the energy — something mellow and upbeat is usually a safe bet.

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Add Thoughtful Touches

A long-distance friend of mine would always leave me a basket of toiletries for my overnight stays and it's something I always remember fondly. On their bedside table, you can leave them a pitcher of water, their favorite snacks, flowers or herbs, and/or a book or magazine. Little details make people feel instantly loved.

Shutterstock

Take the Garbage Out

Nothing ruins the party vibe like a smelly garbage can. Empty it before anyone arrives, and consider adding a fresh liner with a drop of essential oil or baking soda to keep things smelling fresh and clean.

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The only thing keeping me from being upset about A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show being canceled is how well Hulu handled it's newest thriller, Paradise. Created by screenwriter Dan Fogelman (This Is Us) and starring Sterling K. Brown, it's a murder mystery with dystopian undertones that explores what could happen if states become uninhabitable.

Besides feeling relevant to our current timeline, Paradise has a soundtrack that rivals Strangers Things and leaves viewers wanting more. Fortunately, Hulu got the memo and renewed it for Season 2 — thank goodness!

Here's everything to know about Paradise season 2!

Has 'Paradise' Season 2 began filming? 

I'm pinching myself because Paradise Season 2 has started filming! Dan Fogelman shared the amazing news on his Instagram a few days ago and his comments are buzzing with excitement! "We’re baaaaaaaack. #Paradise#S2," he wrote which means we could see Sterling K. Brown and Julianne Nichols on our screens sooner than anticipated.

This comes after an update Fogelman shared with a hopeful fan on X. In response to a fear viewers would have to wait a long time to see more action from our new favorite characters, Fogelman put all fears aside. "we start shooting in just a few weeks. It won’t be 2 years I promise! #Paradise," he said.

When does 'Paradise' season 2 premiere?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Filming just started for Paradise Season 2, so a premiere date for it hasn't been shared yet. But at the rate Fogelman's going, we could possibly see the thriller series on Hulu towards the end of the year or at the beginning of 2026!

For now, fans can rewatch Season 1 on Hulu or when it appears on ABC April 7 at 10:00 p.m. (via The Hollywood Reporter).

What is 'Paradise' about?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise begins in an idyllic community where homes are picturesque, streets are clean, and everyone lives in perfect harmony. However, it doesn't take long for the peace to be disturbed when the President is discovered murdered by his trusted Secret Service agent Xavier Collins.

Before long, he begins questioning the world he and his children live in while also searching for clues about his missing wife.

Who's in the 'Paradise' cast?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise Season 1 has a stacked cast! Besides Sterling K. Brown, there's other familiar faces who help with the show's equilibrium.

  • Sterling K. Brown as Xavier Collins
  • James Marsden as President Cal Bradford
  • Julianne Nicholson as "Sinatra"
  • Krys Marshall as Robinson
  • Sarah Shahi as Dr. Gabriela Torabi
  • Jon Beavers as Billy Pace
  • Nicole Brydon Bloom as Jane Driscoll
  • Aliyah Mastin as Presley Collins
  • Percy Daggs IV as James Collins
  • Charlie Evans as Jeremy Bradford
  • Richard Robichaux as Carl

What's happened in 'Paradise' so far?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Wow, where do I begin?!

After it was revealed that the community he and everyone else lives in has been artificially created due to a disaster, the brief moments of unease Collins shows begins making sense. It's clear he and President Cal ended on bad terms before his death, but it doesn't seem like he was responsible for murdering the man he was sworn to protect.

What's odd is that Sinatra, the mastermind behind the beautiful community they live in, has been playing puppet master. She ordered the deaths of scientists sent to the surface to test the air quality AND she made sure Agent Billy was blindsided by his love interest's manipulation. Upsettingly, his murderer is none other than seemingly docile and clueless Agent Jane.

Viewers were also introduced to President Cal's father and were able to see how much he never wanted to be the face of the country. Though his father appears to have dementia, it's clear he feels guilty about something and may have seen who killed his son.

When did the season finale of 'Paradise' season air?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise left off on several cliffhangers on Hulu March 4!

How many seasons of 'Paradise' will there be?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Dan Fogelman already knows what he wants to do with Paradise! He said, "I have a plan for three seasons of the show. Without giving away too much, each season of the show is a slightly different show, within the same show with the same characters," (via The Hollywood Reporter).

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This post has been updated.