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Generations of Hands Bake Up Holiday Dessert Recipes

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A woman holds out a tray of stacked Rosemary Butter Cookies while a cranberry cake sits in front of it.

Tucked in a corner of Pittsburgh’s Northside, three generations across two families prepare holiday dessert recipes to celebrate together. Donning their Sunday best and kicking the snow off their boots at the doorway, young hands join old to turn flour, sugar, butter, egg, and molasses into a wonderland of sweets that will be stacked atop the dining table – a collage of colors and textures – and enjoyed by all.  

A family and a young girl gather around a table full of holiday dessert recipes.

Generations of Hands Bake Up Holiday Dessert Recipes  

The air outside is cold and a dusting of snow has settled on the windowsills and on the bench just outside of the Second Empire brick beauty where the families gather, but sun pours into the arched windows and catches on a skinny evergreen drenched in tinsel. All is bright. Bringing to mind the family party scene of The Nutcracker, this city dwelling with mansard roof is a just-right setting for holiday hoopla. White paper snowflake garlands kid-crafted from wax paper bags bought at Schorin’s and bowls of orange clementines provide a simple decor.    

A woman rolls out cookie dough as a young girl in green socks sits beside her.

The dessert table menu runs a spectrum of simple comfortable recipes that beg for small assistants in the kitchen -like woodland creature gingerbread cookies and pine bough sugar cookies (made with a few clever icing strokes atop a repurposed oak leaf cookie cutter) – to impressive favorites, like the White Christmas Pie. “Mimi’s mama, Mummum, would make White Christmas Pie only once a year for the family’s Christmas Eve dinner. For that reason, it was an anticipated treat we all looked forward to and there was a bit of magic in that,” says pie-maker and grandmother, Cynthia Hohman. 

A woman dusts powdered sugar over a table full of white holiday cookies.

More Than Just Baking Together  

In the kitchen, the steady hand of Cynthia’s daughter, Lauren, guides her nephew’s rolling pin over some gingerbread cookie dough. For Cynthia, “Baking with kids is timeless.” Picture gnarled, lined hands next to smooth, plump fingers pinching and patting cookie dough. As a grandparent, the baking experience has been one go-to activity that can be shared with no generational boundaries. “I have 11 grandchildren whose hobbies and interests are wide and varied, and none of them, over the years, have refused an invitation to put on an apron, push up their sleeves, and share an afternoon in the kitchen with me. Sure, sometimes it takes six tries cracking an egg to separate the white from the yoke. But, we are laughing and loving the moment.” 

Two adults help a young boy roll out gingerbread dough with a rolling pin on a brown table coated in flour.

Here and in many homes, tradition runs deeper than the food served. Though, it manifests as practices shared, then passed through generations. The kitchen is an optimal setting for common ground and shared goals between generations. A universal language that provides connection to roots, cultural identity, freedom, artistry, self-sufficiency and empowerment.  

A group of people cheers champagne glasses over a table.

 A Little Something for the Adults Too

While shapes expand in the hot oven, Christen Russo pours festive beverages for her parents, Carole and Rich. Out comes a Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail with sugared cranberries to set the mood. For the kids, none can resist hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, mini– marshmallows and peppermint, served in small snow-white creature mugs reserved for just this special occasion, animal tails wrapped into handles. Sisters Lorelei and Una Russo cautiously sip theirs on the back staircase, giddy at the prospect of all those sweets.    

Two young girls sit on steps while their family gathers in the background.

The dining table dons desserts while the smell of ginger and allspice is still heavy in the air. The dimpled chin of Una rests on the table, taking inventory of the sweets. Also on the menu this evening – a dazzling Cream Puff Tower with spun sugar, a powder-sugar-dusted Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake, dainty Meringue Stars, and stacked Rosemary Butter Cookies. 

A woman drizzles glaze over a holiday dessert recipe for cake holes.

First, a toast – champagne is poured into delicate stemware tied with thin black velvet ribbon and the group, buzzing more on good company than sugar, instinctively gathers around the grand piano in the parlor. Gingerbread animals with cinnamon candy noses parade across the keys where Una is seated next to her father. The next best thing to baking with family? A rousing chorus with the ones you love. A Beatles’ classic, Martha, My Dear, rings out with enthusiastic piano accompaniment by Guy Russo. 

A man sits at a piano with a young girl beside him as the rest of his family surround him.

Make These Holiday Dessert Recipes at Home

White Christmas Coconut Pie

A pie with a creamy white coconut filling and toasted coconut top.

Cookie-Jar Sugar Cookies

A close-up of rosemary decorated sugar cookies with green icing and powdered sugar.

Gingerbread Cookies

A pile of gingerbread cookies decorated with white icing and red bulb sprinles.

French Meringue Cookies

A pile of French meringue cookies sit on a brown table dusted in powdered sugar and topped with cherries.

Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake

Half a cranberry cake with cranberries and powdered sugar on top.

Rosemary Butter Cookies

Stacks of Rosemary Butter Cookies sit wrapped in twin while someone sprinkles sugar overtop.

Story and Styling by Leah Hohman / Production by Meg van Dyke, Yinz Getting Married / Photography by Katie Long 

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Using Persimmons in the Winter

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A winter salad of arugula and persimmons sits on a blue plate with whole persimmons, seeds, and a dressing container nearby.

Persimmons ripen in the late fall, just after the colors of the landscape have faded. Jewel-toned fuyu persimmons are a mid-to-late season variety, arriving just in time to dress up the holiday season. They lack the tannins of other persimmons and their candied sweetness makes them a bright spot for both your table and your tastebuds. 

How to Use Persimmons in the Winter

Persimmons grow on trees and are technically berries, originating in China and first harvested over two thousand years ago. Like avocados, mangos, and most certainly bananas- persimmons have their precise moment of perfect, ripe, deliciousness. Catch it quickly, because it’s fleeting. 

Persimmons are also rich in legend and myth. Korean folklore says that dried persimmon can scare away tigers. In Malaysia and Singapore, large persimmons are viewed as a status symbol. Closer to home, folks in the Ozarks say you can tell how severe winter will be by slicing open a persimmon seed and seeing whether it’s shaped like a knife, fork, or spoon (a fork means mild weather; spoon means snow; and a knife means cold that cuts like a – you guessed it – knife).   

One of the traditions surrounding persimmons is hoshigaki, a centuries-old Japanese method of preserving the fruit. It requires peeling persimmons before hanging them on strings and gently massaging the fruit every day for four to six weeks, until it forms a powdery white skin and develops a deep, nuanced sweetness. 

A person mixes a salad of persimmons and arugula in a big brown bowl.

Making a Winter Salad 

If your holiday season is as frenzied as mine is, you don’t have much free time for massaging persimmons. Here’s a better idea. In minutes you can assemble a healthy, eye-candy salad. Start with handfuls of peppery arugula, top with perfectly ripe, thinly sliced persimmons, and finish off with a generous sprinkle of pistachio nuts, and a lemony vinaigrette dressing. 

More Recipes Using Persimmons: 

Persimmon and Makrut Lime Tart 

Brûléed Persimmon and Brie  

And we’re loving… 

James Beard’s Amazing Persimmon Bread recipe from David Lebovitz 

Persimmon Risotto with Pancetta and Goat Cheese from Jul’s Kitchen  

Baked Feta with Persimmons from My Sweet Greek 

Story by Cyndy Tanner / Photography by Tira Howard

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Rosemary Butter Cookies

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Stacks of Rosemary Butter Cookies sit wrapped in twin while someone sprinkles sugar overtop.

Bake up our Rosemary Butter Cookies and take a lesson from us that cookie recipes don’t always have to be so sweet. These delightful treats combine the buttery richness of traditional shortbread cookies with the fragrant aroma of rosemary. The subtle hint of woodsy, almost pine-like flavor from the rosemary adds a unique and sophisticated touch to this classic cookie. Not to mention, who can deny a perfectly golden brown and crunchy cookie with sugar sprinkled on top? Needless to say, your next teatime experience or holiday gathering is covered with a beautiful tray of stacked treats.

A woman holds out a tray of stacked Rosemary Butter Cookies while a cranberry cake sits in front of it.

Can I Substitute the Rosemary for Other Herbs?

Yes! If you want to get a little adventurous with this recipe or if rosemary just isn’t your thing, there are other herbs you can use in these cookies. Try using lavender for a floral, soothing touch with a natural sweetness. Or, you can mix in thyme to offset the richness just as rosemary does in our original recipe. Earl Grey, basil, and sage are other options that produce unique, unforgettable flavors with a crunchy, buttery undertone.

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Stacks of Rosemary Butter Cookies sit on a kitchen towel with twinkly lights behind them.

Rosemary Butter Cookies

  • Author: Leah Hohman, Adapted from Martha Stewart
Print Recipe

Description

You won’t be able to get enough of the buttery, savory crunch of these cookies.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 egg white, beaten
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups sifted all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ cup fine sanding sugar

Instructions

  1. In a stand mixer, use paddle attachment to cream butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. 
  2. Add whole egg and vanilla and beat. 
  3. Add flour, rosemary, and salt, and beat just until combined. 
  4. Cut the dough into two equal portions. Shape each into a log. 
  5. Place each log on a 12-by-16-inch sheet of parchment.  
  6. Roll in parchment to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, pressing a ruler along edge of parchment at each turn to narrow log.  
  7. Place on greased trays and freeze until firm. 
  8. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  
  9. Brush each log with egg white; roll in sanding sugar. Cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds. 
  10. Space slices 1 inch apart on baking sheets lined with parchment or Silpat.  
  11. Bake approximately 20 minutes or until edges are golden.  
  12. Let cool on sheets on wire racks.  
  13. Store in airtight containers. 

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Recipe by Leah Hohman, Adapted from Martha Stewart / Photography by Katie Long

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Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Half a cranberry cake with cranberries and powdered sugar on top.

As the chilly winter days approach, there’s nothing quite like a comforting dessert such as our Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake to warm your soul. Plus, with fresh cranberries and a blend of winter spices, it’s the perfect treat to savor during the holiday season. This decadent cake combines the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the warm aroma of festive spices. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave you craving just one more slice.

A spiced mascarpone cranberry cake with cranberries and powdered sugar on the table around it.

What is Mascarpone?

We’re sure you’ve heard of mascarpone, or even tried it yourself in delectable baked goods. But, do you know what mascarpone is? Mascarpone is a creamy Italian cheese that is made from skimmed milk. It has a rich, buttery flavor and a slightly tangy taste. Mascarpone is often used in desserts, such as tiramisu and cheesecake, combined with another flavor such as vanilla or lemon. In the case of our Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake, we use spices like cinnamon and nutmeg plus orange zest and vanilla to create a decadent, moist cake mix.

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A spiced mascarpone cranberry cake sits below a window sill with a candle on it.

Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake

  • Author: Leah Hohman, adapted from The Original Dish
Print Recipe

Description

Creamy mascarpone and naturally sweet cranberries make a moist, wintery cake.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ lb whole cranberries 
  • 1 ¼ cup and 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt
  • 1 stick (4 oz) butter, softened
  • 2 eggs, at room temperature
  • ½ cup (4 oz) mascarpone cheese
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar with a few pinches of nutmeg and cinnamon added, for dusting 

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine cranberries, ¼ cup plus 2 tbsp of sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon stick.  
  2. Stir over medium-high heat until it boils. Reduce to low and stir until the liquid has evaporated. Let the mixture cool. 
  3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease an 8-inch cake pan. 
  4. In a bowl, whisk together flour, orange zest, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.  
  5. In a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment to cream together butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.  
  6. Add eggs one at a time until incorporated. Scrape the bowl at least once. 
  7. Add mascarpone and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Scrape the bowl at least once. 
  8. Add the dry ingredients and mix only until well combined.  
  9. Transfer the batter to the cake pan and spread into an even layer.  
  10. Spread the cooled cranberry mixture over top.  
  11. Bake for 35 minutes.  
  12. Cover the cake with foil and continue to bake for about 15-20 more minutes. Test  the center of the cake with a toothpick. When it emerges free of batter, remove from oven. 
  13. Let cool in pan for 15 minutes. Run a butter knife around the edges.  
  14. Place a cutting board on top of the cake pan and flip so that the cake releases from the pan.  
  15. Carefully turn the cake upright into a serving platter and allow to cool fully. 
  16. Dust with lots of powdered sugar and cut into slices for serving. 

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Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Recipe by Leah Hohman, Adapted from The Original Dish / Photography by Katie Long

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A Menu for the Zodiac Sign Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

By
Wade Caves
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0
A big orange round tart littered with tomatoes and lime slices surrounded by individual tomatoes and limes and a slice of the tart on a pink plate.

Scorpio, represented by the scorpion with its armored exoskeleton and venomous sting, has long been a symbol that commands respect and caution. In ancient Egypt, the scorpion played a crucial role in religious and protective iconography. The goddess Serket, known as a woman with a scorpion perched atop her head, was invoked as a guardian against venom and a protector of the dead. Travelers would wear amulets bearing her image, not as a threat, but as a warning to potential assailants that the wearer was under her protection.

This dual nature of the scorpion – dangerous yet protective – mirrors the depth and complexity people often experience in Scorpio individuals.

Action and Resilience in Zodiac Sign Scorpio

The sign itself was named after the constellation Scorpius, which used to take up a great deal more of the sky historically than it does today. Its two claws were separated from the scorpion to form the northern and southern balances making up the constellation Libra.

Scorpios tend to be reserved, not prone to unnecessary aggression, but always prepared to defend what they value. This reserved nature, combined with keen perception, allows Scorpios to observe and understand their environment with clarity, bypassing superficial layers distracting others to get to the heart of matters quickly.

Seeing so much of the world’s complexities and human nature’s darker aspects can breed a certain level of cynicism or contempt, and Scorpios frequently find themselves navigating emotionally challenging terrain. Yet, it’s precisely in these difficult landscapes that Scorpios discover tests and ultimately find their strength. Their style of resilience is easy to spot, because it’s filled with strategy and observation, and is often patient.

Scorpio’s Connection to the Seasons

Scorpio, the zodiac sign, was named after the constellation Scorpius but they are not the same thing. Constellations are groups of stars visible in the night sky, all of different shapes and sizes, and zodiac signs are equal divisions of the Sun’s apparent annual path. The signs anchor to the seasons, not the stars after which they were named.

The twelve zodiacal signs can be grouped into three categories based on their relationship to the seasons. The cardinal signs mark the beginning of each season and are associated with change and new beginnings. The fixed signs fall in the middle of each season and are known for their stability, determination, and resolute nature. Lastly, the mutable signs stand between the close of one season and the start of the next. These signs associate with adaptability, flexibility, and the ability to navigate change with ease.

Characteristics of a Fixed Sign

As a fixed sign, Scorpio heralds the middle of autumn, a season characterized by its deepening darkness and intensifying cold. This enduring quality is fundamental to your nature, dear Scorpion. You thrive in environments that allow you to dive into your interests and maintain your chosen course of action with unwavering focus. Setting and pursuing complex, long-term goals is where you truly excel. Your ability to remain committed to your objectives, even in the face of obstacles or distractions, is something you likely admire in yourself, and others in you.

This fixed nature grants you exceptional perseverance and emotional resilience. However, you may find it challenging to adapt to sudden changes or to shift your perspective once you’ve formed a strong opinion. This steadfast quality influences various aspects of your life, from your career pursuits to your personal relationships, where your loyalty and depth of commitment are unmatched. Like the autumn season that prepares the natural world for winter’s challenges, you excel at preparing for and navigating life’s more demanding phases with strategic patience and quiet determination.

New Goals for the Scorpio Zodiac Sign This Year

  • Blend intensity with vulnerability: While your depth of feeling is a strength, it can sometimes create barriers. Challenge yourself to share your softer side with trusted individuals. Start small, perhaps by expressing gratitude or appreciation more openly, and gradually work towards sharing deeper emotions.
  • Channel resilience productively: Your ability to navigate difficult situations sets you apart. How can you use this strength to support others? Consider mentoring someone facing challenges or volunteering for a cause that resonates with your values. This can provide a positive outlet for your emotional intensity and strategic thinking.
  • Practice flexibility in your convictions: While your fixed nature gives you strength of purpose, it can sometimes lead to rigidity. Set a goal to regularly expose yourself to viewpoints that challenge your own. This doesn’t mean changing your mind, but rather expanding your understanding and enhancing your ability to see multiple perspectives. 

What Qualities Does Scorpio Have?

As a water sign, Scorpio aligns with emotional depth, intuition, and a desire for meaningful connection. In addition to this, water signs tend to approach life with an emotional logic, often relying on their gut instincts to navigate complex situations. Scorpio applies this watery nature to all aspects of life, constantly seeking to understand the hidden currents beneath the surface of interactions and experiences.

Among the water signs, Scorpio stands out for its intensity and strategic thinking. While all water signs are intuitive, Scorpios are especially adept at reading between the lines and uncovering hidden truths. This makes them excellent strategists in various life areas, from personal relationships to professional endeavors. However, this tendency to probe deeply can sometimes lead to over-processing information, potentially opening the door to paranoia if not balanced with objective reasoning. The Scorpio fondness for challenge, combined with their emotional resilience, often leads them to thrive in high-pressure situations where others might falter.

More on Scorpio as a Water Sign

Scorpio, as a water sign, often gravitates towards foods that mirror their phlegmatic nature – cool and moist – drawn to refreshing fruits like watermelon and grapes, or crisp vegetables such as cucumbers and lettuce. Dairy products like yogurt and soft cheeses should also appeal to the Scorpio palate. These foods align with the sign’s innate constitution, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity.

An excess of cool, moist foods can sometimes lead to feelings of lethargy or stagnation, particularly during the colder months when your natural tendencies are amplified by the weather. To counteract this, consider incorporating warming and drying elements into your diet. Experiment with aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, or clove in your cooking. Lean proteins such as grilled chicken or baked fish can help provide warmth and structure to your meals. Also, don’t shy away from whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, which can offer a grounding effect.

Remember, Scorpio, your intense nature thrives on seeing things change – let your diet be a tool for balancing and energizing your powerful emotional depths.

Best Foods to Balance Scorpio

For most seasons, these foods are good for supporting the phlegmatic temperament associated with Scorpio:

  • Land: Duck, goose, pork, lamb (in moderation), chicken (roasted).
  • Surf: Salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, trout, cod, oysters, mussels.
  • Grains: Oats, barley, brown rice, quinoa, amaranth.
  • Vegetation: Pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, spinach, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, apples, pears, berries, citrus fruits.
  • Dairy: Aged cheeses, Greek yogurt, kefir, buttermilk.
  • Beverages: Ginger tea, cinnamon tea, green tea, warm water with lemon, vegetable broths.
  • Alcohol: Red wine (in moderation), dark beers, whiskey (in moderation).
  • Spices and Herbs: Ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, turmeric, rosemary, thyme, sage.

In the autumn and winter months, when the phlegmatic temperament may need more warmth and dryness to stay in good health, it’s advisable to emphasize these foods:

  • Land: Beef, venison, bison, turkey (dark meat), chicken (roasted with skin).
  • Surf: Anchovies, swordfish, halibut, octopus, squid, shrimp.
  • Grains: Buckwheat, millet, corn, wild rice, rye.
  • Vegetation: Root vegetables (parsnips, turnips, radishes), bitter greens (arugula, dandelion, endive), chili peppers, ginger, garlic, onions, leeks, mustard greens, dried fruits (figs, dates, prunes).
  • Dairy: Hard aged cheeses (parmesan, pecorino), ghee.
  • Beverages: Chai tea, black coffee, hot toddy, mulled wine, bone broth.
  • Alcohol: Brandy, scotch, spiced rum, full-bodied red wines.
  • Spices and Herbs: Cayenne, black pepper, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, fennel, star anise, horseradish.

The Perfect Menu for Zodiac Sign Scorpio

Starter

Butternut Coconut Soup with Roasted Chickpeas and Pepitas

A meatless butternut soup for when you’re looking to feel lighter and to lighten your eco footprint.

Warming and nourishing, our Butternut Coconut Soup is just what Scorpio needs. It’s full of fresh squash, pepitas, roasted chickpeas, and spices like cloves and ginger. These ingredients make sure to balance out fiery Scorpio with a bit of spice and fresh produce. The best part is you can spend a cool day making this soup with minimal effort at a large payoff.

Main

Muscovy Duck Breast with Blackberry Glaze, Sweet Potato, & Fennel

Slices of duck breast sit on a white plate surrounded by greens and a blackberry sauce.

To help the phlegmatic temperament of Scorpio, cook up a Muscovy Duck Breast. Look to create this winter meal that uses fennel for a cozy bite. Then, make this dish in the springtime with fresh blackberries and sweet potatoes to brighten your palate. Either way, you’ll get your fill of what Scorpio needs to keep moving through the hold and cold days.

Side

Lemon Za’atar Salad

Fresh Lemon Za'atar Salad with Crispy Focaccia Croutons and Colorful Vegetables

Lemon Za’atar Salad is particularly appealing to Scorpios. The intense flavors of lemon and za’atar can resonate with their bold nature, while also supplying what this zodiac sign needs to keep moving. Plus, the salad’s combination of tangy, earthy, and herbaceous elements are a direct reflection of Scorpio’s complex and multifaceted personality.

Drink

Apple Wood-Smoked Manhattan

A short cocktail glass holds a red cocktail with an orange garnish next to a milk glass of smoke.

The smoky spice within our Apple Wood-Smoked Manhattan is perfect for fulfilling the wet heat that Scorpio craves. The base of bourbon whiskey combines with angostura bitters, sweet vermouth, and a brûléed candied apple garnish. Just be careful not to have too many. We also recommend that Scorpios have whiskey in moderation or else their passions may flare.

Dessert

Persimmon and Makrut Lime Tart

A big orange round tart littered with tomatoes and lime slices surrounded by individual tomatoes and limes and a slice of the tart on a pink plate.

The sweet and tart of this indulgent dessert is here to wash over Scorpio with a wave of refreshment. The tart’s rich and creamy texture, combined with the sweet and tangy flavors of persimmon and lime resonate with this water sign. It’s a satisfying way to finish out this menu made up of all the things that make Scorpio the best they can be.

Story by Wade Caves

Wade Caves, based in Brooklyn, NY, is an astrological consultant and educator specializing in problem-solving applications of astrology. He teaches astrological divination and astronomy at the School of Traditional Astrology. Wade also publishes his work on world astrology through Skyscript’s In Mundo publishing desk and hosts the World Astrology Summit, a conference dedicated to the advancement of astrology for global problem-solving. Website: wadecaves.com • skyscript.co.uk/inmundo. Email: hello@wadecaves.com.

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Your 2024 November Full Moon in Taurus Horoscope

By
Wade Caves
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0
A red full moon sits above the water to represent a November horoscope.

This is an electric full Moon, as it forms in tight conjunction to Uranus on November 15, 2024. Undoubtedly, some shockwaves from the US election will be in the air. There’s plenty of reason to suspect the election will come with its fair share of legal challenge, whoever the victor turns out to be. We shall have to wait and see.

Challenges in November’s Full Moon Horoscope

On a personal level, this full Moon is likely to bring out a sense of things hanging in the balance in the world around you. The mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces) will feel this most strongly, as this year has been one punctuated by the awkward dance of Saturn in Pisces and Jupiter in Gemini. Jupiter and Mercury are in opposition this full Moon, but there are themes of finding common ground that should encourage us.

Saturn is finally stationing direct, which is something to celebrate. It will now proceed its dutiful march through the back-half of Pisces, to enter Aries summer of next year. Gemini and Pisces are most advantaged by this change in direction, but all signs will feel the improvement in some way. And this month, the lovely planet of gentle gifts and tender care, Venus, is in great aspect to Saturn – opening up so much opportunity, from romantic to financial to professional.

Your 2024 November Full Moon in Taurus Horoscope

Aries

Aries, your professional life is taking center stage this month. With Saturn stationing direct, workplace chaos should begin to settle, although it may take another few weeks before you can see the tide has truly shifted. Still, it’s an opportune time to ask for that raise or make a significant purchase you’ve been considering. Your financial prospects look promising, especially when you blend them with social activities. Be mindful of your communication, though. The opposition between Jupiter and Mercury in your communication houses could spell trouble if your words don’t align with your actions. Integrity is key now – say what you mean and follow through on your promises. This approach will serve you well in both personal and professional spheres, although this month may bring some vexing complications forward that will take some creative thinking.

Taurus

This full Moon falls in your first house, Taurus, bringing a flurry of activity your way. Uranus, a planet of surprises, is deeply embedded in this full Moon, so I’m afraid I have to share the pithy adage: expect the unexpected. Your ruling planet, Venus, graces your ninth house, making this an excellent time for personal growth. Consider enrolling in a course, learning a new language, or planning that overseas trip you’ve been dreaming about. (Even better if your trip is already planned for this period!) Professional developments look favorable too, thanks to Venus’s aspect with Saturn. Just keep your requests grounded and realistic, as Saturn prefers to deal with things that are measured and thoroughly considered. Watch your spending and avoid erratic investment choices. This month offers mixed opportunities for financial gain, so prudence will be your best ally.

Gemini

Dear Gemini, if you’ve been struggling to connect with a romantic partner or your boss, expect matters to come to a head this month. It seems both parties have been accommodating perceived expectations rather than expressing their own perceptions, and their own hard truths. It’s time for honest communication – let the chips fall where they may. Saturn’s direct station signals relief from recent pressures, though one final test is likely to come near year’s end. Take it easy for now; you’ve weathered a challenging year, and better times are on the horizon. I might suggest you make the most this period and reassess your long-term investment strategy. When was the last time you gave it a thorough review? Are you putting enough away? Are you enjoying the fruits of your labor enough now? These are the things to consider.

Cancer

Cancer, prepare for an enjoyable yet dynamic month ahead. The conjunction of Uranus and your ruling planet, the Moon, infuses this period with erratic energy, and while that can be a bit grating for gentler souls, surprise is one of those spices that adds to life. It’s an ideal time to pursue romantic interests or invest in strengthening existing relationships. Consider that overseas trip you’ve been postponing – with some creativity, you should find a way to make it happen. I would urge a bit of caution this Thanksgiving – you have one of those classic signatures of perhaps indulging a bit beyond what you’d prefer under clearer thinking. Then again, Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time for those of us who love to cook and eat – balance is the key word.

Leo

With Mars in your first house, Leo, you’re brimming with energy during what might otherwise be a slow(er) month. Work might feel like a grind, and you may not feel as appreciated as you deserve. However, senior members are taking notice of your efforts. Don’t hesitate to seek their guidance if needed. Opportunities abroad or in specialized learning look promising – or, if you want something a little less intense, consider reconnecting with the more spiritual side of life. It’s also an excellent time to welcome a pet into your life if you’ve been considering it. Be cautious with speculative activities this month; Mars in your ascendant might prompt hasty decisions. With your income and debt houses at odds, it’s better to hold off on major financial moves until early 2025.

Virgo

Virgo, your ruling planet Mercury’s movements might leave you feeling blocked, especially in work and relationships. I know that’s been difficult, and this has been a bit of a rocky year on those fronts. The good news is that things are shifting, even if movement feels slow. Ride out this storm for a few more weeks – early 2025 promises smoother sailing, with relationship clarity coming even sooner. In the meantime, focus your energy on your home. It’s an ideal time for fall cleaning and winter preparations, and perhaps even a bit of re-decorating. A new paint color can do wonders to lift the mood! If you’ve been considering a loan or need to borrow funds, current conditions favor progressing those negotiations. Remember, this challenging period is temporary – stay focused on your long-term goals.

Libra

It looks like you might’ve taken a little too much on lately, Libra, and are finding yourself managing a bit of the overwhelm. This is a good month for setting some of that straight, as Venus, your planetary ruler, applies to the stabilizing presence of Saturn. Saturn is placed in your sixth house, and so this full Moon it represents where the day-to-day obligations feel heavy. The contact between Venus and Saturn can go a long way toward lifting some of those burdens. The opposition between Mercury and Jupiter, placed in your communication houses, indicates you might be agreeing to more than you can practically manage or sustain. If that sounds possible, start there, and remember – whenever we say ‘yes’ to something, we say ‘no’ to something else.

Discover the Perfect Menu for Zodiac Sign Scorpio

Scorpio

Mars has entered your tenth house this full Moon, Scorpio, and that should indicate you’re feeling more in control, ready to direct, as if you’ve reached an important summit. Next month, Mars will be turning retrograde, so there will be more to discuss then, but for now – consider what you see around you, and where you are instinctually pulled to act and react. That should clue you into the themes likely to be revisited in December and Mars’ retrograde pass. This is a great time for romantic ventures, whether with someone established or someone new. If you’re a writer, or otherwise use messaging for creative purposes, this is due to be a lucky and productive month for you. If that doesn’t describe you, Scorpio, don’t fret – that same luck and satisfaction will show up in reading, signing contracts, and socializing with neighbors and siblings.

Sagittarius 

It might not be a bad idea to go have a read of the Gemini horoscope, Sagittarius, because in some respects, your signs operate as two sides of the same coin. This full Moon chart suggests you’ve been putting too much on your plate for the sake of appeasing others. What happens when they don’t appreciate the sacrifices you’ve made? This is the hard lesson that comes from the opposition of Jupiter and Mercury in Gemini and Sagittarius, respectively. There are good financial prospects for you this month, especially related to fourth house themes like real estate (building, decorating, buying, selling, renovating) and working with the earth (gardening, wells and mining, water infrastructure). If you’re not in these fields, you might consider finding ways to invest in them this month.

Capricorn

Wow, I think you’ve won the good luck award this month, Capricorn. Venus is in your first house, forming a wonderfully supportive aspect to your ruling planet, Saturn. This is great for anywhere you need to drive profit or success. Have a project roll-out you want to see do well? Use this signature. It’s good for making investments (securities or real estate), and for professional advancement. It’s even beneficial for romantic endeavors, whether that means a new face or investing more in the love that’s already present in your life, and for conceiving (if having children is on your mind!). One risk present in this full Moon is the same which afflicted the Cancers – Venus’s impression on your first house, with Jupiter and Mercury opposed in your 6th and 12th houses respectively, could invite overindulgence in the sensual parts of life.

Aquarius

I can see that you’re putting your financial affairs in order, Aquarius, and that there are still a few sacrifices to be made in the final stages of setting a new path. I think you’ll feel quite happy with how things have shifted for you in summer of next year, and you’ll be grateful for all the groundwork you’ve done this year. For the single Aquarians reading, this full Moon beings prospects for some new romantic beginnings, although you may want to be sure who you’re dealing with before pushing the gas pedal to the floor. If you’re already coupled, it may be that your partner is feeling overlooked at the moment. Maybe take the time to bring them front and center, see what that can unlock for you both. The holidays are coming, and Mars is angular for you – go easy on your siblings and cousins, and your in-laws (if you have them).

Pisces

Finally, Pisces, Saturn is stationing direct and is preparing for his final months in your sign. No one enjoys have Saturn pass through their ascendant, but there’s an important maturing that comes along with this transit that you may already be grateful for. Venus in your eleventh house comes to sextile Saturn this month, which should open up some unique and valuable opportunities for you. This could take a romantic tone, but I suspect it’s more likely to be the kind of opportunity that sets you up better for the direction you want your life to take. Your work life is likely to be stacked with a lot of busywork this month. As frustrating as that can be, keep in mind that things like that are typically cyclical, and come and go. I think you’ve got a great month to look forward to.

Story by Wade Caves / Photo Courtesy of Zoltan Tasi

Wade Caves, based in Brooklyn, NY, is an astrological consultant and educator specializing in problem-solving applications of astrology. He teaches astrological divination and astronomy at the School of Traditional Astrology. Wade also publishes his work on world astrology through Skyscript’s In Mundo publishing desk and hosts the World Astrology Summit, a conference dedicated to the advancement of astrology for global problem-solving. Website: wadecaves.com • skyscript.co.uk/inmundo. Email: hello@wadecaves.com.

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Rudolph’s Red-Nose Punch

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A cocktail glass filled with Rudolph's Red-Nose Punch topped with a cranberry and pretzels on the glass.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer had a very shiny nose! Now it can be the sippable centerpiece of your holiday celebration. 

Rudolph’s Red-Nose Punch highlights the the winter cranberry flavor you love. The, it turns it into a deliciously cute cocktail for all party guests. It’s also easy to make this a non-alcoholic drink by leaving out the raspberry vodka and using a pump of raspberry syrup instead. Gather ’round the television with the family to watch this wonderful holiday classic over a glass of sparkly punch.

Where Does Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Come From?

The story of “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” originated in a children’s book from 1939. It’s a tale about being proud to stand out from the crowd and finding your own hidden talent, like Rudolph’s red nose. Other reindeers initially mock him for it, but in the end, he saves the day. Gene Autry’s 1948 song about Rudolph warmed so many hearts that then the classic television film based on it came out of that in 1964. The addition of original songs like “The Island of Misfit Toys” were part of what made the film such memorable holiday staple!

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A cocktail glass filled with Rudolph's Red-Nose Punch topped with a cranberry and pretzels on the glass.

Rudolph’s Red-Nose Punch

  • Author: Kylie Thomas
Print Recipe

Description

Holiday cheer for all!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 32 oz bottle cranberry juice
  • 2 cups ginger ale
  • 2 cups raspberry vodka
  • Cranberries for garnish
  • Broken pretzels for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pour chilled cranberry juice, ginger ale, and raspberry vodka into a punch bowl. 
  2. Mix ingredients until combined.
  3. Make a small slice in the cranberry (but don’t cut all the way through) and place it onto the rim of a glass.
  4. Take two broken pretzels and balance on the back of the cocktail glass.

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Back up a batch of Chai Snickerdoodles for a perfect movie snack accompaniment.

Recipe by Kylie Thomas / Styling by Anna Franklin / Photography by Laura Petrilla

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Red Ryder Punch

By
Justin Matase
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0
Two red rocks glasses with a spring of rosemary garnish, sitting on a snowy surface with a round Christmas ball that. looks like Santa's outfit.

Red Ryder Punch is a gin based cocktail with the flavor of tangy-tart hibiscus, and a hint of blueberry sweetness. Inspired by Ralphie’s iconic “official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200-shot, range model air rifle, with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time,” from A Christmas Story, it is a refreshing cocktail that packs a nice punch of flavor. If you drink it without a straw, there’s thankfully little risk of shooting your eye out.

What Makes this Punch Red?

One of the things that gives this cocktail its color might surprising you. This punch isn’t red from any artificial flavoring. Instead, we’ve used over-steeped Reishi Blueberry Hibiscus tea to get a bright, festive shade of scarlet in your glass. Plus, that tea is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients to balance out the booze.

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Two red rocks glasses with a spring of rosemary garnish, sitting on a snowy surface with a round Christmas ball that. looks like Santa's outfit.

Red Ryder Punch

  • Author: Justin Matase
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cocktail

  • 1.5 oz gin
  • 2  Rishi Blueberry Hibiscus tea bags – Steeped in 1 cup of hot water for 2 hours*
  • 1 oz rosemary simple syrup (recipe below)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice

For the Rosemary Simple Syrup

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 4–6 fresh rosemary springs

Instructions

For the Cocktail

  1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
  2. Pour all ingredients over ice, stir and serve with rosemary garnish.

For the Rosemary Simple Syrup

1. Bring all ingredients to a boil until sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and allow to steep/cool.
3. Strain to remove the rosemary.
This can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Notes

 

*Note: The tea for this cocktail needs to be over-steeped to get the maximum hibiscus and tannin from the tea bag. You’ll want this to sit for about 2 hours until it comes to room temp. This can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

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Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Bake a batch of Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies to enjoy while watching the movie.
Recipe by Justin Matase / Story and Styling by Star Laliberte / Photography by Laura Petrilla
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Sweet Potato Sides to Liven Up Your Holiday Meal

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A delectable brunch dish featuring a savory combination of sweet potato and pork belly hash, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal to start the day.

During holiday dinners, it’s easy for the sweet potatoes to steal the show. In fact, there’s a good chance this delicacy will be the first dish to disappear from the table, whether they’re whipped with brown sugar and butter or sautéed for a more savory take. Shake up your traditional side dishes this year with one of these six recipes that offer you a new way to use sweet potatoes.

Sweet Potato Sides to Liven Up Your Holiday Meal

Smashed Sweet Potatoes 

Smashed Sweet Potatoes served on plate with two forks and a cup of drink

These oven-roasted, smashed Japanese sweet potatoes are decadent and wonderful. Layers of flavors build up from the potato foundation into turmeric and chili, and then the umami of crushed sheets of nori and a drizzle of ghee. They’re simply unforgettable!

Kale and Sweet Potato Soup with Pasta and Poached Eggs

A plate of kale and sweet potato soup with a poached egg

This soup from nationally renowned chef Meike Peters will become a warming fall staple to on those sad, gray, wintery days. The combination of kale and sweet potatoes is extremely healthy, and sometimes a cup of soup as a side at a casual holiday table is lovely.

Sweet Potato Stacks

Sweet potato stacks on in a pan, glistening orange

This recipe only takes a half an hour. It’s a filling side, enjoyable for even the pickiest of eaters, and comforting for cold days. These will go very well with ham, poultry, and turkey, and you’ll be making them long after Thanksgiving.

Sweet Potato Rosettes

Flat-lay image of a muffin tin filled with sweet potato rosettes on a weathered table.

At TABLE, we often say “the camera eats first.” These Sweet Potato Rosettes are as delicious to eat as they are beautiful to look at, and they’re a pretty easy recipe to make at home to impress your guests, too.

Sweet Potato and Corn Fritters

An aerial view of seven Sweet Potato and Corn Fritters on an a white plate, surrounded by herbs. Corn Fritters recipe. Vegetable fritter

The freshness of corn and zucchini combines with the richness of sweet potato to become this fritter. This is a cousin of the latke, a winning holiday side plate with a sprig of fennel and radishes for that extra touch of color.

Bistro Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

A hand slides in from the right of the frame and grabs a scoop of Bistro Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole from a foil serving tray.

The salty, nutty flavor of pecans makes a great accompaniment to sweet potatoes. This casserole will warm you through and through with smooth potatoes, sweet brown sugar, and an irresistible topping. It makes for a perfect side or even an entire meal. 

Spiced Japanese Sweet Potato Pierogi

Spiced Japanese sweet potato pierogi plated with garnish

Spice up your holiday table with pierogis as a new side. You still get the sweet potatoes you know and love but in a new form. Purple Japanese sweet potatoes, red pepper flakes, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger fold in aromatically with gorgeous shiitake and chanterelle mushrooms.

Homemade Sweet Potato and Black Bean Empanadas

Five homemade Empanadas sit on green wax paper. the Empanada in the middle has half of it eaten. homemade Empanadas recipe

Keep the international-inspired sides going with simple Sweet Potato Empanadas. Empanadas may sound like a challenge but this version allows for store-bought pie crust, making this crowd-pleaser as easy-as-pie.

Baby Yams with Maple Chipotle Compound Butter

Tender baby yams with maple-chipotle compound butter, offering a delightful combination of sweet and smoky flavors, perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to your meal.

This traditionally baked sweet potato impresses with an added kick. Baby yams fresh out of the oven go perfectly with sweet and spicy maple-chipotle compound butter. It’s a complimentary holiday side to any main dish. 

Sweet Potato and Pork Belly Hash

A delectable brunch dish featuring a savory combination of sweet potato and pork belly hash, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal to start the day.

This Sweet Potato and Pork Belly Hash is a homey side you may well find yourself serving again and again. The savory fattiness of pork belly infuses its goodness into the perfectly cooked sweet potato, setting the stage for a wonderful feast. Use this simple recipe as a last-minute addition to any meal.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Healthy Beet Soup

By
ZAIN
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0
Healthy Beet Soup in a large steel bowl with a handle

After a season of feasting, it’s time for some self care, and this Healthy Beet Soup is the perfect home remedy for the soul. Soup is often a good way to stay warm and to undo some of our excesses. This delicious beet soup recipe from Kristina Smodila comes directly from Slovenia…where they know their way around a beet and a bowl of soup! 

The Health Benefits of Beet Soup 

Just a clarifying note, the frontrunner in the beet soup game is the Slavic classic borscht, but unlike borscht, this Slovenian beet soup doesn’t use cabbage. That makes it a great alternative for if you want to use ingredients you might already have to make a hearty bowl of beet-red soup. But besides their beautiful color, there’s a lot to love about beets. They contain antioxidants, which help your body fight inflammation and cell damage, as well as a ton of fiber, which can help your digestive function. If that wasn’t enough, they also contain betaine, which the brain uses to create natural antidepressants. For some other beet soup options, try our Chłodnik (Cold Beet Soup)  or Ada’s Cold Beet Soup with Cucumbers, Radishes, and Eggs. 

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Healthy Beet Soup in a large steel bowl with a handle

Healthy Beet Soup Recipe

  • Author: Kristina Smodila
Print Recipe

Description

A Slovenian delight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 3-4 cups fresh beetroot
  • 2 medium potatoes
  • 1 qt vegetable soup stock
  • 4 T parmesan
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Garnish (per portion)
  • 1 tbsp crème fraiche
  • Pinch of black sesame and fresh herbs to garnish

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut onion and garlic.
  2. Peel, wash and dice beets and potatoes.
  3. Preheat oil in a bigger pot. Add onion and fry until golden.
  4. Add garlic and mix with cooking spoon for a few seconds.
  5. Add beets and potatoes and fry for a minute, constantly mixing with cooking spoon.
  6. Add soup stock, parmesan and salt. Cook over medium flame for about 30 minutes.
  7. Use blender to achieve smooth, silky texture.
  8. Serve warm with a spoon of crème fraiche or sour cream.
  9. Garnish with black sesame and fresh herbs.

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Recipe and Photography by Kristina Smodila

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