A Twist on Breakfast: Baked Oatmeal Apple Cups

Oatmeal. It’s the perfect winter breakfast. Something about its warmth and spices just calls out to us during these brisk winter days. While we love how convenient instant oatmeal is, sometimes it can get a little plain. To solve that problem, we tried to think of ways to jazz up all the instant oatmeal packets we have left. As a result, we created a fun, extra warm treat that’s as perfect for those “work from home” weekdays or a special weekend brunch. These baked oatmeal apple cups will definitely take you out of your oatmeal slump, and you know what they say about an apple a day!

Ingredients:

– two packs instant oatmeal, any flavor (we used maple brown sugar)

– 4 tbsp egg whites (2 egg whites)

– 3 tbsp milk

– 4 honey crisp apples

First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

While the oven’s warming up, make some apple cups. Cut off the top of the apples and then core the inside. You can core however you like depending on how much oatmeal you want in the apple.

To create the oatmeal filling, mix together oatmeal, egg whites, milk and stir.

To keep the shape of the apple, we used a muffin tin for baking. Grease your muffin tin and then put the cored and cut apples in. Pour in the oatmeal filling. Bake for 25 minutes. If you like softer apples, bake longer. We like ’em extra brown and crispy so we broiled it for a few minutes right at the end.

Done! For a brunch party, we recommend serving them in cupcake wrappers. So cute!

What kind of breakfasts do you eat on the go? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter.

In case it's not abundantly clear by now, it's the season of canned pumpkin recipes, and we're all for putting it in just about everything we eat and drink! But if you thought you had to use fresh pumpkin puree for all those fall recipes, think again. These canned recipes are delicious and perfect for Thanksgiving, whether you're making an appetizer for the fam or whipping up your famous pumpkin pie. Here are 47 recipes – including canned pumpkin dessert recipes – that use pumpkin from a can.

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

Whoever first decided to put pumpkin and brownies together needs some sort of reward. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie

For your next all-Saturday Netflix session, surprise your binge TV-watching buddy with a pumpkin pie that tastes of pecans, cloves and Biscoff spread. It's the perfect thing to accompany your go-to comfort show. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Spiked Pumpkin Hot Chocolate

Everything about this drink sounds like a good idea. Pumpkin? The perfect seasonal ingredient. Hot cocoa? Our favorite cold weather drink. Rum? A tasty (and optional) part of the recipe. Make this hot chocolate for your Halloween party, Friendsgiving, and beyond. (via Brit + Co)

Lifestyle of a Foodie

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

It's a pie. It's a cookie. It's a pumpkin pie cookie! This loaded canned pumpkin dessert recipe is the perfect thing to make and bring to a party. (via Lifestyle of a Foodie for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

DIY Pumpkin Curry Recipe

If you like to warm up your evenings with curry, swap your usual ingredients for pumpkin puree to make it even more autumnal. This recipe is full of your usual veggies, plus some avocado and coconut milk. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Double Chocolate Banana Pumpkin Bread

Banana bread is already a tasty idea for fall baking, but add in pumpkin *and* chocolate for something that is too good to pass up. Swap the chocolate ganache for chocolate chips if you want, or just add in both. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe is like your favorite cookies, just a little bit healthier. These cute cookies even look like pumpkins! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Chocolate Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats

Upgrade this childhood Rice Krispie Treat with a dab of chocolate and a pinch of pumpkin to turn them into something fall-approved. Colorful sprinkles are non-negotiable. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

The Pumpkin Trifecta

One can, three delicious pumpkin desserts? It's not magic. It's just the great pumpkin. Try one at a time over the next month or make all three for your next fall dinner party. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pie Frozen Yogurt

It's never too cold for fro-yo. With some canned pumpkin and spices, this recipe is only 100 calories and promises to satisfy your October cravings. Count us in! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Let's not forget our pooches. They deserve to gorge on gourd, too. Bonus points if you can find cute, dog-approved cookie cutters for this canned pumpkin recipie. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

French Toast Waffles Canned Pumpkin Recipe

Whoa. Pumpkin, French toast and waffles? This recipe is almost too good to be true. Talk about the ultimate Saturday morning breakfast! (via Brit + Co)

Kezia Lynn / PEXELS

Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread

This easy banana bread is the yummiest excuse to use up ripe bananas and that can of pumpkin puree that's been sitting ini your cabinet for months. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Apple Pumpkin Curry Soup

Get ready for a big spoonful of coziness. All of our favorite fall flavors are floating around this savory and sweet soup that makes for a great dinner anytime you're feeling cold. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkintini

Who would've thought that you could make a PSL into a cocktail? Genius! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Eating pie for breakfast is not a wise choice. Making your breakfasttaste like pie is. You won't want to go back to normal oatmeal after you try this recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

Fall-ify your morning smoothie with a little pumpkin and a little spice. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

One Pot Cheesy Pumpkin Pecan Pasta

If you thought pumpkin couldn't be added to a cheesy pasta, this is proof that it definitely can. Pecans add a little bit of crunch, and while this recipe is already meatless, you can make it with dairy-free cheese to turn it into something magically vegan. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pie Cobbler

Forget apple cobbler this fall. Try this pumpkin cobbler that's baked… inside a pumpkin. Mind = blown. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse With Spiked Whipped Cream

Thanksgiving Day already has your oven working overtime. Give it a break by serving up this delicious pumpkin-y no-bake dessert. Not only will it allow your kitchen to take it easy but you also won't be sweating over the stovetop. (via Brit + Co)

Betty Crocker

Pumpkin Donuts

These sugar-covered donuts are made from cake mix and canned pumpkin. Trust us: you do have time to make them. They're just that good. (via Betty Crocker)

Cookin' Canuck

Spiced Pumpkin Yogurt Parfaits

If you're looking for a way to add pumpkin to your morning routine, you found it. Use Greek yogurt and honey granola to make yourself a healthy breakfast. (via Cookin' Canuck)

Cookie and Kate

Pumpkin, Pineapple and Rum Cocktail

At your next soirée, warm everyone up with this sweet and sour cocktail. (via Cookie and Kate)

Willowbird Baking

Pumpkin Cheesecake Pillow Popovers

These pillow popovers will melt in your mouth, filling it with flavors of pumpkin and cheesecake. Our mouths are already watering for this canned pumpkin dessert. (via Willowbird Baking)

Chocolate Covered Katie

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Sometimes, you just need a PSL. Don't want to get out of your PJs to make that happen? This recipe = problem solved. You can make it right in the comfort of you own kitchen, especially if you have your own at-home coffee bar. (via Chocolate Covered Katie)

Life, Love and Sugar

Pumpkin Pie In A Jar

We're sure that everyone has wished for their own personal-sized pumpkin pie at some point in their life. Make that dream come true with these no-bake pies in a jar! (via Life, Love and Sugar)

The Tart Tart

Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches

There isn't much in this world that compares to homemade ice cream. Except maybe homemade pumpkin ice cream sandwiches between homemade chocolate chip cookies. (via The Tart Tart)

Chocolate-Covered Katie

Pumpkin Reeses

While Reeses are delicious all by themselves, replacing peanut butterwith pumpkin is the best idea we've heard all month. You can add a pinch of salt to round out the flavor. (via Chocolate-Covered Katie)

Diethood

Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Wake up to deliciousness and pumpkin pie with these cinnamon rolls. We'll take two… pans. (via Diethood)

Sally's Baking Addiction

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

If variety is the spice of life, then these cookies are everything. You can easily alter the flavor by using chocolate chips or cranberries or… wait for it… pumpkin seeds! (via Sally's Baking Addiction)

Call Me PMC

Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Do you have a strict morning routine? Make these Pop Tarts ahead of time for some pumpkin on the go if you don't have time to make a huge breakfast. (via Call Me PMC)

Averie Cooks

Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie

Realice cream plus canned pumpkin equals a super scrumptious twist on classic pumpkin pie. (via Averie Cooks)

Eva Bakes

Pumpkin and Peach Muffins

Who'd have thought these two orange ingredients would go so well together? You better be snatching up those peaches while you can. (via Eva Bakes)

Delightfule Made

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts

These donuts will pair perfectly with your steaming cuppa. Pair with pumpkin spice tea or a PSL for the ultimate pumpkin experience. (via Delightfule Made)

Desserts With Benefits

Pumpkin-Spiced Walnut Butter

Alright, stop, collaborate and listen. Spice is back with a brand new invention. You've just gotta try this butter on your next bagel. (via Desserts With Benefits)

Bakerita

Pumpkin Crumb Cake

With the crazy baking season, who has hours and hours to spend baking? This cake may look complicated, but it's actually incredibly easy, which automatically gets a thumbs-up from us. Plus, who can resist a crumb topping like that? (Not us.) (via Bakerita)

The Chic Life

Autumn Granola Canned Pumpkin Recipe

This pumpkin-y granola combines lots of flavors to create a breakfast you'll be craving all season long. Swap out some of the ingredients come winter to keep things seasonal. (via The Chic Life)

The Sweet Chick

Maple Fudge Canned Pumpkin Recipe

Hand this fudge out to all of your trick or treaters, and don't be surprised when word on the street gets out that you've got the best treats on the block. (via The Sweet Chick)

Country Cleaver

Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Cones

'Tis the season for bonfires, and ice cream cones make the ideal vehicle for a delectable cheesecake treat that can be eaten (quickly!) around the fire. (via Country Cleaver)

Daily Burn

Healthy Pumpkin Pancakes

These pancakes are a fabulous healthy way to refuel after a morning workout. Just go lighter on the syrup, or get your sweetness by adding some semi-sweet chocolate chips in each cake. (via Daily Burn)

Baking a Moment

Pumpkin Creme Brulee

Crusty top, creamy middle, pumpkin taste — now that's a dessert worth breaking a diet for. (via Baking a Moment)

Woman Scribbles

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

This warm, gooey and chocolatey take on a delicious pumpkin loaf bread is a heaven sent option for those who love combining their favorite fall flavors together. (via Woman Scribbles)

Vanilla and Bean

Pumpkin Maple Pecan Granola With Cranberries

Add a different texture to your pumpkin maple pecan granola with cranberries. Its sweet and crunchy flavor will pair well with morning cereal or yogurt bowls. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Averie Cooks

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake is one of those classic desserts that will probably never go away – not that we want it to. To spice things up, try baking these sweet pumpkin cheesecake bars. (via Averie Cooks)

Bowl of Delicious

Instant Pot Pumpkin Chili

A warm bowl of chili on a crisp fall day is enough to bring a smile to anyone's face, but did you know you could add pumpkin to it? For something that's a little spicy yet savory, make this Instant Pot pumpkin chili for the family this weekend! (via Bowl of Delicious)

Where Is My Spoon?

Chicken and Pumpkin Risotto

We live for comfort foods like this chicken and pumpkin risotto. It's light and flavorful, making every spoonful a delight to taste. (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Barley & Sage

Pumpkin Spice Macarons

Macarons are another fan favorite that deserve their chance to be baked this fall. Bake this pumpkin spice recipe for your upcoming Halloween party! (via Barley & Sage)

Check out our Pinterest and online baking + cooking classes for more canned pumpkin recipe inspiration!

This post has been updated.

Gwyneth Paltrow's kids were destined to be in the spotlight the moment she announced the name "Apple." Unique name choices aside, we've watched Gwyneth's kids grow up over the past couple decades. Given all this time, I shouldn't be so surprised to find out these "little ones" are in college now, but WOW — I guess this means we're all officially old now.

Wondering what Apple and Moses are up to these days? Here's everything you need to know about them — including how Gwyneth's processing the "empty nest" life.

How many kids does Gwyneth Paltrow have?

MJ Kim/Getty Images

Gwyneth has two children — Apple and Moses Martin — with her ex-husband Chris Martin. She's been very vocal about them throughout the years, so it's totally bittersweet to see how fast they've grown.

How old are Gwyneth Paltrow's kids?

Harry How/Getty Images

Apple is currently 20 while Moses is — gulp! — 18 years old. I told you time flew by fast!

Why did Gwyneth name her daughter Apple?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

How gorgeous is Apple? She's the perfect blend of Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin, giving her a stunning visage that channels Tyra Banks' 'smize.' But many people have wondered why Gwyneth decided to name her Apple. In 2004, she sat down with Oprah Winfrey to dish about the inspiration behind her daughter's name, and we can't help but fully stan the meaning.

"When we were first pregnant, her daddy said, ‘If it’s a girl I think her name should be Apple.' It sounded so sweet, and it conjured such a lovely picture for me," she said. "Apples are so sweet and they're wholesome, and it's biblical."

Gwyneth went on to explain that even though the name sparked "international outrage," she'd actually heard of a few other Apples out in the world since then! Still, we know this Apple's been one-of-a-kind since day one. Gwyneth said, "The first morning we woke up together in the hospital bed, and we were facing each other, and I opened my eyes, and she's got these huge blue eyes...She was just staring at me with this unbelievable intensity."

Name aside, it's clear Apple Martin was destined to be unique!

How has Gwyneth Paltrow approached motherhood over the years?

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Last year, Gwyneth talked about what made her put acting on the back burner — and it was probably the realest thing she could've said as a mom. "Well, it's kind of ironic because I really stepped away from acting when Apple was born," she admitted to PEOPLE. "When I had her, it just, everything felt redefined for me, and I thought, 'I'm not sure that I want to do this so much as a career. I definitely don't want to...I'm not going to go away for months on end,'" she remembers thinking.

In 2021, the Goop founder also opened up about becoming a stepmom to her husband Brad Falchuk's two children — Isabella and Brody. Talking to actress Gabrielle Union — who's also been vocal about her own parenting journey — on The Goop Podcast, Gwyneth said, "When I became a stepmother, when I knew I was going to become a stepmother, I was like, 'S–t, I have no idea how to do this." However, she added that stepping into that role was an "interesting challenge" and that she's "learned so much" about herself.

Where do Gwyneth Paltrow's kids go to college?

Getty Images

Apple has been at Vanderbilt University for the past two years (The Zoe Report). Located in Nashville, Tennessee, it's well over 2,000 miles away from where Gwyneth lives in California (via US Weekly). On the other hand, Moses goes to college at Brown University (via News Week) which is even further away — as in a little over 3,000 miles far.

As a first-time mom, I can only imagine how it feels to know the babies you've raised are so far away!

How does Gwyneth Paltrow feel about having an empty nest?

Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Being a mom is a wild ride of emotions whether you're a celebrity like Gwyneth Paltrow or not. Gwyneth revealed her feelings about her kids no longer living at home during a Q&A session she had on her Instagram stories Tuesday. Someone asked, "How's life as a free bird?" according to PEOPLE, and it made Gwyneth reflect about her outlook. After she thanked the person for their question, she said, "It's very different. I have waves of grief and sadness."

From pregnancy to the newborn stage to the land of unruly teenagers, there's never a time where things like mom guilt cease to exist. But more often than not, moms have an overwhelming amount of love for their kids and experience a new pang of hurt when they leave home and leave an "empty nest". It's something Gwyneth Paltrow's finding herself dealing with now that her babies are now adults and don't live with her anymore.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

But it's not all doom and gloom! Now that Gwyneth Paltrow's kids are finding their way in the world as young adults, she's entering a season where she's learning more about herself. "I am kind of getting back in touch with this part of myself that I haven't felt like since I was in my 20s before I had kids," Gwyneth shared. "Like, a little more space and imagination, maybe. A little more inner space for what I might want to do that day, stuff like that. So, it's evolving. It's interesting."

How do you feel about Gwyneth Paltrow's comments about having an empty nest? Let us know on Facebook!

We have more than a month before Halloween arrives so it's time to start perfecting your Halloween desserts for the frightful night. If you're looking to bake up your first scary-good treat, check out these amazing Halloween cake recipes! These are the creepy confections that will keep the Halloween party going all night long. Make sure to serve these sweets alongside Halloween cocktails and some last-minute snacks, if you dare.

Brit + Co

If you're not of trick-or-treating age anymore, and also don't have little ones of your own yet to rack up a pumpkin full of candy for the whole family, you might be wondering how to get your sweet tooth fix this holiday season. We've curated some truly next-level Halloween cake recipes you can create to get your spooky season off to a chilling start.

The best part about the Halloween cakes ahead? They are the *perfect* conversation starter for any parties you might attend, plus you can also leverage these ideas for October birthdays or for your friends who embody spooky vibes all year long.

Keep scrolling for all of the iconic Halloween themes in edible form, from Jack-o'-lanterns and graveyard dirt cakes, to desserts with spiderwebs, bats, creepy eyeballs, blood, gore, and more! And don't worry – we have some picture-perfect holiday cake recipes in the mix as well for the scaredy cats out there. Bon appetit!

Butternut Bakery

Moist Black Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake is a staple during birthdays and holidays, but have you ever tried its darker sister? She still has the same moist feel and taste you love, but the black cocoa, buttercream, and white food coloring add to her appearance. Top it off with flying bats and your guests will love staring at it at your party.

Barley & Sage

Bloody Broken Glass Cupcakes

Someone wasn't careful while baking and ended up cutting their fingers on the broken glass sticking out of these cupcakes. The horror!

All jokes aside, this dessert is perfectly spooky and edible because it features ganache, sugar glass, and 'blood' you can feast on. It'll be a good idea to dress up as a sexy vampire who has fangs to really spook your guests!

Brit + Co

Effortless No-Bake Mummy Sponge Cake

Sponge cakes aren't usually this spooky, but there's no reason they can't be! Between us, mummies aren't always talked about during Halloween so this dessert gives you a reason to celebrate them.

You'll need ingredients like powdered sugar, baking powder, vanilla extract, salted butter, and flour to create the cake. Next, you'll combine white vanilla frosting and large candy eyeballs for the mummy design. Put it all together and you have the spongiest Halloween cake ever!

Brit + Co

Meringue Bone Palace Halloween Cake

Not to be attempted by the faint of heart (meringue is known to be one of the trickiest substances to work with), this creative cake is completely inspired by skeleton bones. Oh, and by the way, underneath all those bones, you'll find a decadent (and equally visually stunning) bright red velvet cake.

Brit + Co

Neon Confetti Cake

Light up any darkened room with a *shockingly* bright Halloween dessert. Treat guests to this neon cake, and throw in some other glow-in-the-dark decorations to really make it shine.

Brit + Co

Spooky Cake Balls

Here's an easy cake recipe to whip up in a hot minute when you don't feel like making an entire cake. Your guests won't be able to resist the spooky eyeballs and mini mummies.

Culinary Hill

Oreo Brownie Trifle

Turn this simple trifle into something spooky: layer brownies, chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and crushed Oreo cookies in a cake pan. Top the stack with *extra* crushed Oreos and write on the Milano cookie “tombstones” with homemade icing. Add some gummy worms to amp up the creep factor!

Half Baked Harvest

Forbidden Forest Chocolate Butterbeer Cake

Pretend it's the Halloween feast at Hogwarts and serve up a cake that's inspired by the intriguing and terrifying Forbidden Forest. After an adventure in there, you definitely deserve chocolate.

Barley & Sage

Black Cocoa Halloween Layer Cake

Wow your guests with this black cocoa Halloween cake that's covered in black cocoa buttercream, marshmallow spiderwebs, and ghost meringues! It's delicious *and* spectacular looking.

SugarHero

Stenciled Halloween Sprinkle Cake

What better way to incorporate a fun gradient into your Halloween cake than with this absolutely stunning dessert? It features ombre-toned buttercream frosting and a delicious vanilla yellow cake. You can *also* easily repurpose this recipe throughout the year by switching out the stencil design color theme.

Domestic Gothess

Monochrome Cake

Channel your inner Beetlejuice when you decorate this monochrome black-and-white cake – just don't look too long at those spirals, or you might find yourself hypnotized! This elegant Halloween cake uses melted dark chocolate and vanilla for contrasting colors, plus an extra black gel food coloring to provide the rich dark shade.

Best Friends for Frosting

Pink and Gold Pumpkin Cakes

If you've got a bright, pastel aesthetic to uphold, these pumpkin spice cakes draped with pastel-colored fondant and edible gold offer a fancy fall treat.

The Baking Fairy

Halloween Cookies and Cream Cake

Oreo-filled vanilla cake, cookies and cream frosting, dark chocolate ganache, and a heap of seasonal candies make this one decadent dessert you simply can't pass on making. To decorate the layers, you'll make a chocolate ganache with heavy cream, chocolate chips, and corn syrup. Then, add some Oreo pieces, sprinkles, candy corn, Peeps, and the whole she-bang.

Jane's Patisserie

No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

Pumpkin-flavored cheesecakes are one of the main dessert staples of the fall season. The best part about this recipe? It's no-bake! Plus, with a prep time and cook time of 10 minutes each, you can have a delicious treat ready to set in the fridge in 20 minutes. This pumpkin spice cheesecake features all the classic fall flavors like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and ground cloves.

Half Baked Harvest

Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake

This is one of our favorite Halloween cakes to bake and serve with a side of apple-bobbing games and spiked apple cider. It's perfected with applesauce to make it *sort of* healthy... but you'll still you dump some ooey-gooey salted caramel sauce all over the cake and apples.

The Cookie Writer

Nightmare Before Christmas Cake

If you're a Tim Burton fan, you *have* to try this. What better way to celebrate one of the coolest movies ever than by showcasing your fandom with this artsy and spooky Halloween cake idea? And best of all, it'll only take you 45 minutes to tackle this spook-tacular sweet.

Best Friends for Frosting

Unicorn Halloween Jack-o'-Lantern Cake

If you have younger kids, rockin' with traditional Halloween cake themes can be pretty scary. Shake things up by offering this sweet unicorn instead of the usual creepy fare. Bonus points if you match your Halloween unicorn costume to this treat!

Sprinkle Bakes

Candy Corn Tuxedo Cake

The creepy exterior of this cake cuts away to a whimsically colorful surprise on the inside. Inspired by s'mores-flavored candy corn, this Halloween cake is one no one can turn down. The harvest colors definitely bring an autumn feel to the recipe that you can break out long past Halloween, and this one reads more cute-spooky instead of scary-spooky, if that's your preferred vibe.

Liv for Cake

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Halloween doesn't have to just be about darkness and ghouls. It's also perfectly fine to celebrate with a bright autumnal vibe, as with this beautiful pumpkin spice cake!

I Am Baker

Slime Cake

This dark chocolate cake has a shocking contrast in color, thanks to its lime green buttercream frosting. Here's the secret to the dramatic combo: the chocolate is made extra-dark with black food coloring. On the inside, there's layered neon green pudding to provide an ooey-gooey texture that makes perfect sense for the slime factor.

Sprinkle Bakes

Skeleton Piñata Cake

Fill your Halloween cake with almond bark-based bones for a scary (and delicious) surprise. Start with a succulent red velvet cake base for the inside, then use ready-made fondant for the skeleton design on top.

Foxes Love Lemons

Orange Cream Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Layer cakes always feel special, especially when they're made with bright orange and dark black cake and frosting for Halloween! Cutting that first slice is bound to make you smile.

The First Year

Melted Witch Cake

Uh-oh — it looks like Dorothy came to visit this melting witch! The secret to the dripping look is whipping up some dark chocolate ganache. (via The First Year)

Kirbie's Cravings

Halloween Candy Mug Cake

Once your kids go to bed, sneak some of their Halloween candy for yourself. You'll be on your way to whipping up a fast and tasty mug cake for one!

I Am Baker

Boo Surprise Inside Cake

Surprise your guests with a secret message inside their dessert. It sounds complicated, but this one is actually quite easy to make when you follow the notes.

Amanda Wilens

Black Velvet Cake

This ghoulish Halloween cake gets topped with little white chocolate ghosties that can be equally creepy or cute, depending how you make them at home.

Growing Up Gabel

Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cake

How adorable is this? Create your very own pumpkin patch with instant pudding, Oreo crumbs, and mini pumpkin candies.

Host the Toast

Salted Caramel Upside Down Cake

Caramel apples may no longer be acceptable as a trick-or-treating sweet, but you can enjoy the flavors of this classic autumnal treat in cake form instead.

Kathryn's Kitchen

Halloween Witch Hat Cupcakes

Though these individual treats don't make a full cake, they are perfect for serving a crowd at your Halloween get-togethers.

Host the Toast

Spiderweb S'mores Cheesecake Brownies

Repeat after us: there is no such thing as too much of a good thing. Smash together all of your favorite desserts and you get an elaborate concoction that is alone worth celebrating during Halloween.

The Edgy Veg

Vegan Zombie Cupcakes

These freaky bites will turn out so impressive, you won't want to sink your teeth into them.

Follow us on Pinterest for more spooky-good Halloween ideas, and pin the Halloween cake ideas you're excited to try this season!

This article has been updated.

As much as I adore coffee, you could not convince me to drink it black. I like my drinks sweet (but not too sweet) and creamy (but not too creamy), with plenty of flavor that doesn’t drown out the actual coffee notes. But sometimes, the classic coffee-creamer combo gets old and I need a way to spice up my morning joe. Luckily, there are endless ways to upgrade coffee that take your brew from boring to beautiful.

I polled my inner circle (we’re all coffee snobs to a degree) about their #1 favorite add-in that truly makes their coffee shine. These 6 simple coffee upgrades are all affordable, easy, and compatible with all kinds of brewing methods. Next time your pick-me-up needs a pick-me-up, try out one of these hacks!

Brigitte Tohm / PEXELS

1. Lavender

Lavender in a latte is sheer heaven. I’ve DIY’ed my own lavender syrup before (it’s too easy), but you can also buy it ready-made! Any sort of syrup makes for an easy coffee upgrade, really. Brands like Jordan's Skinny Mixes and Torani are my go-to’s, and they sell a vast array of flavors to suit any taste!

Lisa Fotios / PEXELS

2. Cinnamon

I’m convinced cinnamon belongs in everything. I put it in my protein pancakes, yogurt bowls, and cookies, but it’s also a supreme add-in for coffee and even matcha lattes! The warm flavor notes of cinnamon are also perfect for cozying up in the fall and winter.

Julissa Helmuth / PEXELS

3. Honey

Cinnamon in coffee gets even better when you put honey in the mix with cinnamon. It’s one of my pal’s absolute go-to’s in lattes (hot or iced), but it also works just as well in hot drip coffees or cold brews.

Andrea Davis / PEXELS

4. Oat milk

Oat milk (or milk of any kind) is a perfect coffee hack for those who can’t stand black coffee. It helps cut the sharpness and acidity of the brew, adding some creaminess and color to each sip. I find that oat milk is the best pairing for breakfast time!

Amazon

5. Protein shake

In place of milk, I also really like adding a splash of a protein shake to my coffee for a dose of creaminess and flavor. The protein is just an added bonus!

I really love Koia’s protein shakes since they sell a lot of different flavors, from Cinnamon Cereal to Pumpkin Spice.

JaYoung Choi / PEXELS

6. Brown sugar

I’ve used brown sugar many times to make a Starbucks copycat brown sugar shaken espresso right at home. I’ll simply add equal parts instant coffee and brown sugar to a mason jar with ice, shake it up, and top it off with cinnamon and milk.

If you prefer sipping on something a little less fancy, adding a spoonful to a plain hot coffee could be really delightful, too!

Target

7. Cold foam

The final (and tastiest) coffee hack I drink on the regular is cold foam! Target sells a good range of cold foam cans in various flavors, but I’ve really come to love the salted caramel iteration. It’s perfect for topping of iced coffees for a nice mid-day treat!

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Jack-o'-lanterns are great for Halloween decorations, but the humble pumpkin certainly has a lot to offer once the holiday's over. In the U.S. alone, 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins are thrown away after Halloween every year. Once trashed, wasted pumpkins end up occupying a lot of space in landfills and producing harmful amounts of the greenhouse gas, methane.

Because of this, it's important to consider making some more sustainable moves after spooky season ends. Turns out, many varieties of pumpkins you'll find in stores this fall are actually bred for carving, and aren't safe for consumption – each pumpkin will often be marked if they're inedible. Try looking out for pumpkins that *can* be eaten so you can make the most out of the pumpkin guts: Cherokee Bush, Casper, Cinderella, and Fairy Tale pumpkins are all great choices.

Consider composting your pumpkins after Halloween, too. If you don't do at-home compost, there are likely to be community compost pick-ups or drop-offs near you.

The most sustainable (and delicious) way to use leftover pumpkin is to make some recipes with it! We've gone far beyond pumpkin pie and roasting pumpkin seeds (although we'll happily do that, too) to bring you some creative ways to make use of the insides of yourjack-o'-lanterns after their flames have burned out. We're scooping out over a dozen creative ways to use the whole thing, guts and all.

Recipes To Make With Pumpkin Guts

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Spiced Pumpkin Cider

Swap out the pumpkin puree with your own pumpkin goodness to make this luscious Halloween drink.

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Pumpkin Rolls

These luscious pumpkin rolls make for the ultimate cozy weekend breakfast! To make use of your pumpkin leftovers, swap the canned pumpkin puree for your own homemade version.

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Pumpkin Pasta

Get us a spoon! Nothing says comfort food like mac and cheese, but this pasta takes things up a notch. Fall is no better time than fall to nosh on homey eats that carry *all* the fall flavors.

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Pumpkin Curry

Make this pumpkin-packed curry however spicy you'd like it for a *totally* warming bite when it's chilly out!

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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These paleo-friendly baked bites scream fall, especially when you decorate them in jack-o'-lantern fashion.

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Pumpkin Juice

Whip up your very own pumpkin puree to dress up this seasonal drink!

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Chocolate Pumpkin Banana Bread

Freshly-baked banana bread is made for the fall season, so why not doctor things up with some pumpkin? Leverage your leftovers for a sweet little treat!

The Pioneer Woman

Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Grab your pumpkin and get to work, because the good stuff is on the inside. Slice, scoop and de-seed your way to homemade pumpkin puree that'll knock *any* canned pumpkin product out of the patch.

Oh She Glows

The Perfect Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Once you've spilled the guts, work on gathering all of those pumpkin seeds. Not only do pumpkin seeds have nutritive value, they're excellent for munching on their own.

Taste & Tell

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

So, yeah… pumpkin, cinnamon and maple cream cheese all infused into a warm, sticky bun. We'll take two, please.

A Beautiful Mess

Overnight Pumpkin Butter

Once you've had the sweet and spicy taste of warm pumpkin butter hit your taste buds, you'll never look at a pumpkin the same way again. Grab a pumpkin and get digging, because these guts make something quite grand.

Modern Farmer

Hard Squash Hummus

Creamy chickpeas and raw pumpkin (instead of squash) combine for a flavorful spin on the classic dip. Reap the rewards of the pumpkin and score some 'oohs' and 'ahhs' by roasting the seeds for a crunchy garnish.

Ambitious Kitchen

Honey Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins

If you're a pumpkin lover, get on this recipe! They're perfect for dunking into chilis and stews, or if you like your cornbread on the sweet side, add a drizzle of melted butter and warm honey. (via Ambitious Kitchen)

Pizzazzerie

Pumpkin Bisque

Learn how to use a pumpkin as a serving vessel and flavor enhancer for superb dishes like this crisp fall bisque.

Martha Stewart

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling

Martha knows a thing or two about pumpkin… like how excellent it is when you bake it into pillowy cookies sandwiched around sweetened cream cheese.

Skinnytaste

Pumpkin Ice Cream

It's October, and that means pumpkin-flavored everything hits supermarket shelves. If you live in a warmer area, you can forget the fuzzy sweaters and hot apple cider. Get your fall fix with this creamy sherbet that's perfectly spiced, made with milk, pumpkin puree, and spices.

She Wears Many Hats

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

You're drooling, right? This pumpkin dessert just might make it into your regular rotation.

Purely Twins

Pumpkin Pie Fudge Truffles

For the love of pumpkin and chocolate! These bite-sized truffles are basically magic in the mouth. Bibbity-bobbity-boo, do spread the love for a treat, and share this recipe with your friends.

The Girl On Bloor

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccinos

Starbucks is life, but if you want to save some money this week, whip up this delicious pumpkin spice Frappuccino recipe at home! Mash up your leftover pumpkin guts to make a puree that'll serve as the base for this fall drink.

The First Mess

Black Bean Dip with Roasted Squash, Garlic, Pumpkin Seeds and Chipotles

Your nachos are waiting for you to dip them into this delectable black bean dip with roasted squash, garlic, pumpkin seeds and chipotle peppers.

Half Baked Harvest

6-Ingredient Spiced Pumpkin Butter

Step up your pumpkin butter game with this recipe. It's a perfect alternative if you want to have a spiced buttery spread to top your breakfast toast or croissant.

The First Mess

Vegan Pumpkin Smoothie with Ginger and Cardamom

This vegan pumpkin smoothie with ginger and cardamom is the fall drink you didn't know you needed to make.

Barley & Sage

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Let your pumpkin's guts help you create the creamy puree that gives this stuffed shell recipe a burst of fall flavor.

Salt & Lavender

Pumpkin and Cauliflower Soup with Ginger

This pumpkin and cauliflower soup with ginger is great comfort meal on the cold, rainy fall days. (via Salt & Lavender)

Fancy Peasant

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Let your kids help you scoop out out the guts of your pumpkins so you can bake this sweet treat. They'll love eating this yummy twist on a traditional dessert.

Rachel Mansfield

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Crumb Cheesecake

Bake this gluten-free pumpkin crumb cheesecake for Thanksgiving, and watch as it slowly becomes your family's favorite dessert.

Takes Two Eggs

Dog Birthday Cake

It's time to celebrate your fur baby's birthday with this delicious cake. It's filled with yummy and safe ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter and apple sauce!

Recipes For Your Dog, Made With Leftover Pumpkin

White on Rice Couple

Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ifyour dog is as sweet as pumpkin pie, why not give him a bone that's packed with the flavor and nutrients of pumpkin?

DIY Self-Care With Pumpkin Guts

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Pumpkin-Honey Baking Soda Scrub

Welcome the fall season and brighten your skin without the aid of sunshine with this pumpkin body scrub. Rich in vitamins A and C and various enzymes, raw pumpkin is the secret ingredient to radiant skin.

Freutcake

Pumpkin Sugar Body Scrub

Want to try something magical on your skin? DIY thisbody scrub packed with natural enzymes that fight free radicals, slough away dead skin, and leave you feeling rejuvenated. Get to the kitchen and begin mixing nutrient rich, raw pumpkin with coarse sugar or salt, a bit of honey and sweet almond oil for a body scrub that packs a punch.

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This post has been updated.