Go Green: A Rolling Herb Garden with Neon Plant Markers

Spring is right around the corner, and we’re pinning all of our favorite floral DIY projects, springy fashion pieces, and the like. We’re also hoping to turn our thumbs green with a few clever gardening hacks, and this garden on wheels is just one of the goodies on our to-make list!

Made by Audrey at This Little Street, this Rolling Herb Garden and Neon Plant Markers are the perfect thing to inspire a little at-home gardening. The cart is decorated with contact paper and washi tape (two of our favorite materials ever!), and the neon markers get their pops of color from washi as well. See how it all comes together right here.

As Audrey writes: The best thing about a having a garden on wheels is that I can put it outside when the weather is nice, bring it home if it’s too cold and even put it in different rooms in the house depending on when the sun falls over the seasons.

We love that versatility! Especially with a mix of wildflowers, herbs, and succulents.

You survived winter and with spring comes the chance to prep your garden. Whether you’re growing veggies, flowers, or just looking to add some life to your backyard, the possibilities are endless. The best gardening tips for spring are simple: set yourself up for success and do the hard work. With a trusty plan, a willingness to get a little dirty, and — perhaps the hardest part — a little bit of patience, you’ll be surrounded by new life in your outdoor oasis soon enough. Here are a few tips for getting started!

​What should I do first in my garden?

Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

The hardest part of any new venture is getting started. It’s easy to be overwhelmed at the getgo but fear not, breaking down your gardening journey into easy steps can make the process seem less daunting. Let’s get started:

Assess Your Garden: First things first, take a leisurely stroll through your garden space, observing any winter damage, areas of overgrowth, or potential improvements. This initial assessment will guide your planning and help you identify areas that require attention.

Prepare the Soil: Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a thriving garden so survey what you’re working with and prep it for growth.. Begin by clearing away debris and gently turning the soil to aerate it. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or aged manure to enrich the soil with essential nutrients, promoting robust plant growth.

Prune and Trim: Out with the old and in with the new. Trim back any dead or damaged branches from trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. Pruning encourages new growth and enhances the overall appearance of your garden.

Weed Control: Tackle weeds early to prevent them from overtaking your garden beds. Pull weeds by hand or use organic mulch to suppress weed growth while nourishing the soil. Regular weeding sessions throughout the spring will keep your garden looking tidy and vibrant.

Plan Your Plantings: With a clear understanding of your garden's layout and soil conditions, strategize your plantings for the season. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, water requirements, and plant compatibility. Draw a quick sketch and map out how you’ll create your space.

What's the key to a good garden?

Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva / PEXELS

You’ve done the prep work and your seeds or plants are in the ground. Now what? Besides an abundance of patience, the secret to a successful garden is nurturing it regularly.. Here are some key principles to keep in mind as the season goes on:

Water Wisely: Plants need water, especially as the sun comes out and the days get warmer. But there are some ground rules. Water your garden in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize evaporation and ensure optimal absorption. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system for efficient water distribution, focusing on the root zone of plants.

Practice Patience: For me, this is the hardest part. The fact is that gardening takes time. Understand that growth takes time, and not every seed will sprout overnight. Embrace the process and celebrate each milestone, knowing you’re on your way to a harvest.

Encourage Biodiversity: Things thrive in nature thanks to a healthy dose of biodiversity. Create that in your own garden by integrating a variety of plants that will attract insects, pollinators, and birds. Companion planting is a great way to make the most of your garden. In placing companion plants together, they mutually benefit from each other’s nutrients, and can aid in pollination, pest control, and flavor.

Continuous Learning: Gardening is a lifelong experience. With each season, your intuition will grow and you’ll gather nuggets of information to aid in your future gardens. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new plant varieties, techniques, and design concepts.

What's the best garden layout?

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

When it comes to garden layout, the possibilities are as vast as your imagination. Whether you envision a lush English cottage garden or a sleek modern landscape, the key is to design a layout that reflects your personal style and maximizes the potential of your outdoor space. Here are some popular garden layout ideas to inspire your creativity:

Traditional Rows: Ideal for vegetable gardens and formal landscapes, traditional row planting maximizes space efficiency and makes it easy to maintain everything. Arrange plants in straight rows with defined pathways for easy access and visual appeal.

Circular Gardens: Embrace the elegance of curves with a circular garden layout. Plant circular beds with a focal point at the center, such as a fountain or sculpture, to draw the eye and add visual interest. You’ll create your own zen space to go and relax.

Container Gardens: Perfect for small spaces and city livers, container gardens are the way to go. Plant flowers, herbs, and vegetables in decorative pots and containers, arranging them creatively on patios, balconies, or windowsills.

Vertical Gardens: Vertical gardens have gained in popularity in the past years for how versatile and space-saving they can be. Install trellises, arbors, or living walls to support climbing plants and create vertical interest. Vertical gardens are not only space-saving but also add a striking visual dimension to your outdoor oasis.

Naturalistic Landscapes: Embrace the beauty of nature with a naturalistic garden layout inspired by wild landscapes and native plant communities. Incorporate meandering pathways that feel whimsical and natural.

What if I don't have a green thumb?

Photo by cottonbro studio / PEXELS

I wasn't born with a green thumb, but over the years, I’ve picked up tidbits that have helped me with more success each year. Gardening is a journey of learning and a little patience and persistence will lead you to success. Start small, choose low-maintenance plants that suit your climate and soil conditions, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

​How can I attract pollinators to my garden?

Photo by Debadutta / PEXELS

Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds play a crucial role in plant reproduction and ecosystem health. To attract pollinators to your garden, plant a diverse array of nectar-rich flowers, provide shelter and nesting sites, and avoid using pesticides that harm beneficial insects.

​What's the best way to deal with garden pests without using harmful chemicals?

Photo by Raychan on Unsplash

Natural pest control methods are safe and effective alternatives to chemical pesticides. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and birds by providing habitat and food sources. Employ physical barriers, such as row covers or netting, to protect vulnerable plants from pests, and practice crop rotation to deter pest buildup.

You’re ready! Even if you’re nervous, just get started. There’s no better time than now. With a step-by-step plan and a little bit of hard work, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor sooner than you think.

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Last night I realized I was pregnant during the height of the pandemic and the 2020 election cycle, but I didn't have any self-care practices in sight. I was chronically stressed and spent way too much time on social media when I should've been finding ways to ground myself. After a tough four years of navigating everything from motherhood to starting my career, I've finally started utilizing gratitude journaling as a tool to get through tough days.

I don't know how you may be feeling today, but I've created journal prompts you can refer to when you're scared, anxious, unsure of the future, and more. They're not meant to replace meditation or seeking therapy, but they are here for moments you need to check in with yourself.

A Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You're Worried About The Future

Arina Krasnikova

Write Down 5 Things You're Grateful You Can See, Touch, Hear, And Smell

This is actually a practice I picked up in therapy to help redirect my anxious thoughts. It's something I often refer to when I'm fixated on the future and things that might happen. Any time you feel yourself not being present because you're worried about what's next, focus on things that are immediately in front of you or around you.

For example, here's what's reminding me to be present:

  • I can hear one of my favorite gospel songs playing and the subtle humming I'm doing.
  • I can see two lime green books on my desk.
  • I can smell the clean laundry my fiancé took out of the dryer.
  • I'm touching the keys on my keyboard as I type this.
Although they seem small, I'm grateful they're helping to keep me rooted in the present moment. So, what are you grateful you can see, touch, hear, and smell today?

Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You're Experiencing Sadness

Darina Belonogova

Write Down 3 Things You're Grateful For Today

Practicing gratitude when you're sad isn't so you can pretend the sadness doesn't exist. It's a very real emotion that calls for us to be curious about why we're feeling that way. However, if you feel like you're 'stuck' in your sadness, you can try writing down 3 things you're grateful for right now. Again, they don't have to be grandiose. They just have to make sense to you.

You could be grateful for:

  • Eating a delicious meal
  • Having a good night's sleep
  • Hearing your favorite song at the right moment
  • Morning snuggles with your pet or toddler
  • Having access to binge watch your favorite TV show when you need to escape reality for a bit

Antoni Shkraba

Write Down The People You're Grateful You Can Rely On

My hope is that everyone has at least one person they can rely on during difficult moments in life. I know everyone doesn't have huge villages for different reasons, but I'd rather focus on who is there.

This gratitude journaling idea doesn't require you to go in depth about why you're grateful for the people in your corner unless you want to. You can simply write their names down if that's all you have the bandwidth for.

Pavel Danilyuk

Recount A Memory That Always Makes You Smile

When in doubt, think about a moment that was hilarious or filled you with joy. It can be from your childhood, first year in college, or even your wedding day! The one memory that always makes me smile is from an interesting moment I told one of my uncles he looked like Santa Claus. I was around 5 or 6 years old, so it was a super innocent comment, but still it was hilarious nonetheless. No one in my family has let my uncle or me forget that moment. It's small, but it's one of the memories I'm grateful I can remember when I'm feeling sad.

A Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You Feel You're Not Doing Enough

Antoni Shkraba

Write Down 1 Thing You've Grateful You've Accomplished

I know some journal prompts ask you to list multiple things you've recently accomplished, but I've found that makes me a little more anxious that necessary. If this sounds like you, I see you and think it's just as impactful to be grateful for one thing you've done that you're proud of. It could be as simple as:

  • "I had the strength to get out of bed today after wanting to do nothing more than hide under the covers."
  • "I did laundry and put everything away."
  • "I made myself a meal instead of ordering lunch like I usually do."
  • "I stuck to my budget this week."
  • "My presentation at work or school went really well."
  • "I made that scary phone call I've been putting off."
  • "I went for a walk around my neighborhood or local park."

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As soon as the days get longer and the slightest bit of green reappears on the trees, I enter my gardening era. I’m not blessed with a naturally green thumb, but over the years, I've learned a lot through trial and error and managed to grow some yummy vegetables. There’s plenty of guides out there about how to start a vegetable garden, but this one is specifically tailored for beginners. The city apartment porch growers. The new homeowners. The pot-by-the-window gardeners. We all have to start somewhere and a garden of any size is still a garden.

This guide will cover the basics from best places to plant to on-going maintenance, as well as some FAQs I’m sure you have. Activate your cottagecore dreams, let’s grow something!

​How To Plan Your Vegetable Garden

Photo by Greta Hoffman / PEXELS

Before you start planting, take the time to plan your vegetable garden. Consider the following steps:

Choose The Right Location

Select a spot with access to ample sunlight (at least 6 hours per day. For in-ground gardens, make sure the space you’re consideration has well-draining soil. Ensure the chosen area is easily accessible for watering and maintenance. For indoor, place your containers near windows that receive ample sunlight. Leafy greens like lettuce and herbs can thrive with around 4-6 hours of sunlight, while fruiting plants like tomatoes may need more. Also consider weight restrictions and wind exposure. Use lightweight containers, secure taller plants to prevent toppling, and choose wind-resistant vegetables like leafy greens and herbs.

Size Matters

It may be tempting to go all in your first season. But it can be very overwhelming, so don’t be afraid to start small. Begin with a manageable garden plot, perhaps 4x8 feet. As you gain confidence and experience, you can expand your garden.

Prepare The Soil

Test the soil in your chosen area and amend it with compost or organic matter to enhance fertility. Loose, well-aerated soil promotes healthy root growth. For balcony or indoor gardens, you’ll be starting from scratch so pick a quality compost or potting soil that drains easily and is packed with nutrients. Container gardening is the go-to method, but not just any container will do. Select containers with proper drainage holes to prevent overwatering.

Select The Best Vegetables

Consider starting with easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, and herbs. These are forgiving for beginners and fruit on their first season. If you’re in smaller, balcony space or indoors, choose vegetable varieties that are well-suited for container gardening such as bush or dwarf varieties of tomatoes, peppers, and compact herbs. Another option is vertical gardens. Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, and kale, as well as herbs like basil, mint, and chives, thrive in indoor conditions.

Best Practices for Planting

Photo by Greta Hoffman / PEXELS

So you’ve bought your soil and your seeds or plants, now what? Here are my best tips for planting!

Raised Beds vs. In-Ground Gardens

Raised beds provide better drainage and control over soil quality, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Planting directly into your existing ground can certainly be done, but will require you prep and care for the soil before planting.

Companion Planting

Some vegetables thrive when planted together, providing mutual benefits like pest control and nutrient-sharing. For example, plant tomatoes with basil to deter pests and enhance flavor.

Seed Selection And Starting

Opt for high-quality seeds or young seedlings from reputable sources. I’d recommend starting with seedlings for your first go, as they skip the germination stage and provide a head start.

Plant Spacing

Follow the recommended spacing guidelines on seed packets to prevent overcrowding. Proper spacing ensures each plant receives adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients.

​Watering, Feeding, and Maintenance

Photo by Gustavo Fring / PEXELS

Now the fun part — tending to your garden. Once everything has been planted and begins to grow, your job is only beginning. Consider these tips:

Watering

Provide consistent, deep watering to encourage strong root development. Watering early in the day is best and it’s worth it to invest in a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses for efficient water distribution. For your container gardens, use self-watering containers to maintain consistent moisture levels, especially in indoor environments with controlled humidity.

Fertilizing

Think of fertilizer as food for the plants. Use organic fertilizers or compost to nourish your garden. Follow recommended application rates and avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plants.

Weeding

If you see a weed, pull it! It can compete with your growing garden for nutrients. Mulching around plants helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.

Keeping Pests Away

Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases. When you can, Introduce natural predators like ladybugs and encourage biodiversity to maintain a balanced ecosystem in your garden. In small settings, reach for natural pest deterrents like neem oil. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, and address issues promptly to prevent infestations.

​Harvest Time

Photo by Zen Chung / PEXELS

When the wait is over and your plants look ready to eat, there’s no better feeling. Keep these considerations in mind:

Understanding Harvest Times

Each vegetable has a specific harvesting time. Harvest leafy greens, such as lettuce and spinach, when the leaves are young and tender. Root vegetables like carrots and radishes are ready when they reach a desirable size, while tomatoes and peppers should be picked when fully ripe.

Check Often

Regularly inspect your garden for signs of ripeness. Look for vibrant colors, firm textures, and mature sizes. Overripe fruits and vegetables may lose flavor and nutritional value.

Harvesting Tools

Invest in a few basic harvesting tools, such as pruners or scissors for cutting, and a gentle touch for handling delicate produce. Proper tools can make the harvesting process more efficient and minimize damage to plants.

Storing And Enjoying The Harvest

After harvesting, store your produce properly. Some vegetables can be stored in a cool, dark place, while others may need refrigeration. Enjoy the fresh flavors of your harvest by incorporating them into delicious meals, salads, or even preserving them for later use.

Continual Harvest

Many plants, especially those like beans, cucumbers, and zucchini, benefit from continual harvesting. Regularly pick mature fruits to encourage the plant to keep producing.

What is the easiest vegetable garden for beginners?

Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV / PEXELS

For beginners, it's recommended to start with vegetables that are forgiving and relatively easy to grow. Tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, and herbs like basil and mint are excellent choices. These plants typically require minimal care and flourish in a range of environments.

What vegetables grow well together?

Photo by Kampus Production / PEXELS

Try planting these together: tomatoes with basil, carrots with onions, lettuce with radishes, cabbage with dill, rosemary with sage, and beans with corn. These combinations create a symbiotic relationship that benefits both plants.

​How often should I water my vegetable garden?

Photo by Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

This really depends on your climate, soil type, and the specific needs of your plants. As a general rule, water your garden deeply and consistently, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week. Adjust based on weather conditions and the moisture level of the soil.

​Can I use tap water for my garden, or is rainwater better?

Photo by Matteo Badini / PEXELS

Both tap water and rainwater can be fine for your garden. However, if your tap water is high in chlorine or other chemicals, consider letting it sit for a day before using it. Rainwater is ideal as it's naturally free of additives, and plants often respond well to it.

​How do I know if my plants need fertilizer?

Photo by cottonbro studio / PEXELS

Monitor your plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. If your plants show these symptoms, it may be time to fertilize.

​What is the best time of day to harvest vegetables?

Photo by Any Lane / PEXELS

The best time to harvest vegetables is in the morning when temperatures are cooler, and plants are well-hydrated. Harvesting in the morning helps preserve the freshness and flavor of your produce.

​How can I extend the growing season for my vegetables?

Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva / PEXELS

Consider using techniques like mulching to retain soil warmth, row covers to protect plants from frost, and cold frames or greenhouses for temperature control. These methods can help you harvest fresh produce for a more extended period.

How do I know when my vegetables are ready to be harvested?

Photo by Kampus Production / PEXELS

Harvest times vary for different vegetables. Generally, vegetables are ready when they reach a mature size, have vibrant color, and can be easily separated from the plant.

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Header image via Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

In all honestly, all I look forward to during the holidays (other than my fam) is the pie. There's pumpkin pie. Apple pie. Chocolate pie. Sweet potato pie. But more than any other dessert, pecan piejust gets me. I'm salivating as I'm thinking about it!

Anywho... making an entire pecan pie can become a whole ordeal very quickly. That's where these delicious pecan pie bars from Chahinez with Lifestyle of a Foodiestep in. They're simple to make, plus provide the ideal eating experience – pecan pie bars easily qualify under finger foods, and they are downright addictive.

Let's get into the recipe!

Ingredients For Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Lifestyle of a Foodie

For the shortbread crust:

  • ½ cup butter
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoon cornstarch

For the pecan pie filling:

  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 & ½ cup pecans chopped

How To Make Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Lifestyle of a Foodie

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 F, then line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, add in the flour, salt, cornstarch, and mix. Add in the cold butter and work it into the dough with your hand or a pastry cutter until cookie dough forms. Press it onto the prepared baking pan and bake for 20 minutes.
  3. In a separate large bowl, mix the eggs, brown sugar, light corn syrup, heavy cream, salt, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until combined. Stir in the pecan pieces.
  4. Once the crust is done baking, pour the pecan pie filling on top of the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes. The edges will brown a little, and the center will be barely jiggly.
  5. Remove from the oven, and let cool completely before transferring to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Slice the bars and serve.

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Recipe + photography by Lifestyle of a Foodie.

This post has been updated.

The rush of the holidays and planning the perfect holiday feast is no joke — finding the best Thanksgiving cocktails, roasting a delicious turkey and, of course, getting creative with leftovers — it all makes it hard to kick back and relax. We think you should find a moment for yourself (or with a few pals) and celebrate the wonderful flavors we love so much this time of year.

Instead of going for the tired pumpkin spice latte, think more along the lines of a boozyfall cocktail. Picture bourbon cocktails with cinnamon, caramel, apple… you know, all the autumn classics. We don't recommend sampling these Thanksgiving cocktails all in one night, but let's just say it'll be difficult to only choose one. We can't wait to try these Thanksgiving cocktails!

Brit + Co

Nespresso White Russian

Combining booze with coffee makes it somewhat more acceptable to knock one back during that late-morning, gathering-before-dinner time period, no? We love any excuse to get cozy with Nespresso, and this White Russian concoction will have you feeling all the warm, Thanksgiving-y vibes.

Brit + Co

S'moretini

Whether it's too cold to sit outside and snack on some s'mores, or you don't have a fire pit to roast marshmallows (although Gilmore Girlsdid show us how to use our stovetops...), this Thanksgiving cocktail is a great alternative to the sticky dessert. The chocolate andgraham cracker coating on the rim is just the cherry on top!

Brit + Co

Rum Toddy

This cocktail recipe is great because there's a good chance you already have the majority of the ingredients in your kitchen! Just put everything you need in a thermos, stir it up, and you're good to go. Not only will toddies keep you warm on cold days, but they're good for sore throats and fighting the chills if you're feeling a lil' under the weather.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Pear Ginger Fizz

Swap your cranberry sauce for a cranberry cocktail complete with ginger beer, pears, and limes. Make sure you keep some whole cranberries and rosemary sprigs for the finishing touch. Even if you've never made cocktails before, this drink is so easy that anyone can make it!

Brit + Co

Clementine Whiskey Smash

Sweet clementine juice and rich whiskey are the perfect match in this fun Thanksgiving drink, plus you can adjust the amount of whiskey that goes in depending on how strong you'd like the drink. Go easy for a fresh taste or add a bit more if you want something warmer.

Brit + Co

Wild Turkey Cocktails

Now, we know what you're thinking: "there is no way I'm drinking a cocktail that has turkey in it." But you don't have to worry because the 'wild turkey' in this recipe actually comes from Wild Turkey American Honey! Make one for an afternoon apéritif or an evening drink once the kids have gone to bed. Now the only question is, who let the (wild) turkeys out?!

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

We're suckers for all things pumpkin spice, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to indulge in a little PSL-inspired boozy bevvy. This Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate is super easy to make — and even easier to devour.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Is The New Black Cocktail

From cranberry sauce to cranberry garlands, this red berry is definitely a holiday season staple – and now you can add it to yourbar cart! Think of this drink as an upgraded vodka cranberry, with a more sophisticated look. If you're not able to get black vodka, just sub black food coloring to achieve the same finished product.

Brit + Co

Chai Hot Toddy

If you're not a huge pumpkin person, then you have to try this spiced, creamy Thanksgiving cocktail while you wait for eggnog season. Your classic chai gets a makeover with some spiced rum and cinnamon-infused milk (YUM!) that give it a whole new holiday edge. You can also experiment with different spices and adding in a shot of espresso to change things up.

Brit + Co

Apple Cide-car Cocktail

As far as we're concerned, apple cider season should last all winter long. This easy cocktail only has four ingredients (apple cider, brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice) which means there's no excuse to not have this on your Thanksgiving menu! Need a simple alternative for the under-21 crew? Nix the alcohol, but keep the glasses for an upscale apple cider mocktail.

Brit + Co

Convergent Opera Cake Cocktail

This cold brew concoction is perfect for getting you buzzed in more than one way. It's the perfect after-dinner dose of caffeine you need to avoid a food coma, but it'll also give you all the Thanksgiving feels.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Zinger Jam Jar Cocktail

We love jam and we love cocktails, so why not put them together? This cranberry zinger (which is basically the queen of mixed Thanksgiving cocktails) will certainly make you feel all kinds of bubbly. All you gotta do is pour your favorite gin and cranberry juice over ice, and then top with a spoonful of your go-to jam. Top it off with ginger ale, and you're done!

Brit + Co

Pomegranate Ginger Beer Cocktail

Ginger has just the right amount of warmth to keep you toasty during holiday gatherings. This delicious ginger beer concoction will be a total crowd pleaser at all your Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving gatherings.

Wholefully

Two Ingredient Apple Cider Mimosas

If mimosas (especially apple cider mimosas) don't scream fall brunch, we don't know what does. Since it's only two ingredients, you don't have to worry about trying to put together a complex Thanksgiving cocktail recipe while also preparing dinner. Sounds like a win-win.

Dos Hombres Mezcal

Dos Hombres Hot Cider

Add 1 gallon apple cider, 1 tbsp whole allspice, 1 tbsp whole cloves, 1 sliced orange, 1-inch sliced fresh ginger, 3 cinnamon sticks, and 4 star anise to a pot, and simmer for about 30 minutes before adding 1.5 cups of Dos Hombres Mezcal to spike the sip!

Home & Plate

Salted Caramel Apple Martini

Martinis make us feel sophisticated and mysterious, but there's one thing that's no mystery: cocktail hour will never be the same after you serve this sweet, tart drink to your family and friends. All you *really* need is a little caramel vodka and apple cider, and you're good to go. Don't forget to chill your martini glasses beforehand to keep things cool.

JoLynn Shane

Apple Cider Mojito Recipe

Mojitos might usually be a summer drink for you, but the addition of apple cider makes this one of the best Thanksgiving cocktails you could sip on. The cinnamon simple syrup in this recipe is totally worth the extra prep time. This drink is also loaded with fresh mint and cinnamon sticks for a fall flavor combo you can't miss.

Joyful Healthy Eats

Apple Cider Moscow Mule

Everyone knows that what makes a Moscow mule a true mule is the ginger beer. Well, with this easy Thanksgiving cocktail, what makes it is the hard apple cider instead of the regular kind.

Inspired by Charm

Apple Pie Sangria

Apple desserts are a must-have during the holiday season, and this apple pie-inspired sangria might just become our top pick. This is the *perfect* Thanksgiving cocktail to put out in a big pitcher and sip on during dinner, while watching the football game, or even when you're stuck cleaning up dishes.

Baked by Rachel

Apple Cider Whiskey Smash

This is an ahh-mazing seasonal twist on a traditional whiskey drink. With just three quick ingredients (whiskey, lemon juice, and apple cider) you can even make a big batch of this Thanksgiving-y drink *before* the holiday whirlwind begins.

Cookie + Kate

Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

We consider November 1 to be the official start of maple season. Even if whiskey isn't your thing, it might be after sampling this cup of Thanksgiving goodness. A little maple syrup goes a long way when you're working with this recipe!

Dos Hombres Mezcal

Dos Hombres Naughty Toddy

Mix together 1 oz Dos Hombres Mezcal, .5 oz fresh lemon juice, .25 oz honey, 1 oz whiskey, and 2 oz natural apple juice together before heating it up on the stove to make this Thanksgiving cocktail. Garnsih with a lemon wheel, and prepare to be warm AF.

Gimme Some Oven

Cranberry Margaritas

Cranberries might be reminiscent of Christmas, but cranberry sauce is basically a Thanksgiving delicacy… which is why we had to give this seasonal margarita our stamp of approval. The squeeze of lime and the salted rim puts this cocktail over the (very delicious) edge, and if you want to get extra fancy with it, there's also a recipe to make your own homemade cranberry juice.

Holly & Flora

Bourbon + Spiced Pear Cocktail

With herbs like sage and thyme topped off with allspice and cinnamon, we're totally in love with this unique Thanksgiving cocktail. Not only does the ginger liqueur give this drink a little kick, but including agave means that it's totally sugar-free.

Baker by Nature

Cranberry + Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

If you're really craving some sweetness, this is the exact drink you should go for. It calls for two cups of cranberries on top of two cups of sugar to yield four cocktails. It's safe to say you'll be perked up after just a few sips.

The Sweetest Occasion

Salted Caramel White Russian

This cocktail is creamy, sweet, and totally dessert-like, which makes it a great addition to post-dinner conversation. You could literally forget the pies and cobblers (but what's Thanksgiving without some pie?) and just drink this instead. Don't worry if you're dairy-free – just swap the caramel sauce for a coconut-based caramel instead.

Slow Cooker Spiced Wine

Okayyy – this warm drink gives us all the fall feels. Red wine and brandy warmed in a crockpot with spices and orange sounds like total heaven to us. Not to mention that you can leave this to simmer throughout the day, so your guests can help themselves and you don't have to worry about it! (viaWell Plated)

Domesticate Me

Spiced Cider Margaritas

For many, the lime margarita is a staple on Taco Tuesday, but maybe it's time to mix it up? We think YES. Cozy up by the fire with a glass of this spiced cider that's spiked with tequila and garnished with cinnamon sticks and apples. That — and the cinnamon sugar rim — sounds right up our alley.

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