The Benoit Blanc, a Cocktail for Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

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November 14, 2025

A cocktail for benoit blanc in knives out with a in a glass in a pale yellow color with a red float on top, lemon twist and knife through it all.

Who doesn’t love Benoit Blanc from the Knives Out series of movies? In honor of Netflix’s release of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, The Benoit Blanc is a sophisticated, multi-layered cocktail that mirrors the brilliant detective himself. Think of a Whiskey Sour, traditional, complex, resilient. We’re using smooth bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and a frothy egg white to provide a plush, velvety texture. It’s a feeling similar to Blanc’s luxurious and unforgettable wares. The “clue” here is the dramatic float of Cabernet Sauvignon. We pour it gently over a spoon to create a bloody, crimson layer. It sits on top of the pale yellow cocktail. Talk about a mystery in a cocktail!

**What is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery About?**

The third installment of Netflix’s hit series, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, follows our favorite quirky detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) to a secluded Catholic parish in upstate New York. The mystery revolves around the murder of the controversial Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin). When the newly assigned Father Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) comes into the parish, he becomes a key suspect. Now, it’s up to Blanc to solve this mystery set in a gothic paradise.

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The Benoit Blanc, a Cocktial for Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

Author: Sarah Cascone
Yield: Makes 1

Print Recipe

Description

An ode to our favorite detective in classic cocktail form.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz bourbon
1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice
¾ oz simple syrup
½ – 1 oz Cabernet Sauvignon
1 egg white

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, lemon, simple, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. Do this without ice to emulsify the egg. This is called a dry shake.
Then add ice and shake for another 15 seconds.
Strain pour into a rocks glass (with or without ice). Float the cabernet by pouring it over the back of a spoon into the glass. This creates a layered effect.
Garnish with a lemon twist.

Recipe by Sarah Cascone
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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The Upside Down Cocktail for Stranger Things Season 5

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 14, 2025

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Two glasses of an orange cocktail with cherry and pineapple wedge garnishes.

The world has been waiting in anticipation since 2022 for the last and final season of Stranger Things and finally the time has come. Dive into season five of this global phenomenon with The Upside Down cocktail. This haunting cocktail channels the otherworldly dimension of Stranger Things as well as the flavor of a pineapple upside down cake. We’re blending the comforting taste of vanilla vodka with tropical pineapple juice. Then we layer a striking red splash of grenadine, reminding us that few come back from the Upside Down. As you settle in for the release of part one on November 26, part two on Christmas, and the final episode on New Year’s Eve, mix up this cocktail to savor every last moment (and cross your fingers your fav makes it out alive).

**What Happens in Stranger Things Season 5?**

The epic finale of Stranger Things is not to be missed. In the fall of 1987 the entire town of Hawkins is under military quarantine as the Upside Down merges with the real world. This last season’s core plot will come full circle as Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) faces his villain again, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) heads back into hiding while preparing for the final confrontation, and new character, Dr. Kay (Linda Hamilton) chases after Eleven throughout it all.

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The Upside Down Cocktail for Stranger Things Season 5

Author: Sarah Cascone

Print Recipe

Description

One final goodbye to one of our favorite series.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 oz Faber Vanilla Vodka
3 oz pineapple juice
Splash of grenadine syrup
Maraschino cherry
Pineapple wedge

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add a splash of grenadine over the ice.
Pour in the pineapple juice and vanilla vodka.
You can stir to blend or leave with a slight layered effect.
Garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry.

Recipe by Sarah Cascone
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Recipes Using Espresso for National Espresso Day

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 14, 2025

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A cocktail glass is filled with a Espresso Spritz, garnished with an orange and sitting on a blue table surrounded by Nespresso pods.

Get ready for a caffeine high as we celebrate National Espresso Day on November 23 with delicious espresso recipes. This day is a tribute to the rich, bold essence of highly concentrated coffee that often gets us through our days. Whether you’re enhancing the chocolate notes in a fudgey brownie, adding a layer of depth to a creamy filling, or simply elevating your traditional cocktail, espresso is the perfect secret for sophistication and fun. We’re featuring recipes that take you beyond your morning mug of coffee, showcasing how this mighty innovation can go a long way

Recipes Using Espresso for National Coffee Day

Espresso Swirl Cheesecake

A cheecake with espresso swirl and chocolate feather garnishes sits on a wood table beside two plates with slices and nespresso pods.

Imagine one of your favorite desserts combined with the flavors of rich, decadent espresso. Our Espresso Swirl Cheesecake is made simple with the use of leftover Nespresso pod grounds. Bite into a homemade graham cracker crust and creamy, pillowy filling with a kick. We even include cheesecake baking tips so you can create a successful product regardless of your skill level.

Halloween Espresso Brownies

A Halloween brownie in a sheet pan drizzled to look like a spider web.

While it isn’t quite October, we think September 29 is close enough so why not celebrate National Coffee Day and spooky season at the same time? Plus, you don’t have to decorate these Espresso Brownies in spider webs. Instead, customize them for any event, the rich flavor is enough to keep you coming back.

Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini

When the evening has settled and the guests have gone, break out this Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini for a relaxing, nostalgia trip in a glass. We’re upgrading the classic espresso martini to include a toasted marshmallow simple syrup that you can use in other drinks as well. Top it all off with an actual roasted marshmallow and let yourself slip into the mindset of sitting by a campfire.

Espresso Martini, A Cocktail for Sagittarius

A espresso martini cocktail for Sagittarius sits in a glass, topped with espresso powder with a crystal gem to the left.

An Espresso Martini is not just for Sagittarius but it does help if you have their expressive energy. This classic recipe uses coffee liqueur, vodka, and espresso to make the cocktail of your dreams. It’s strong, sweet, and a bit bitter all at once.

Nespresso Affogato

Italy’s espresso, dessert infusion is getting made even simpler with our Nespresso Affogato. All it takes is a scoop of your favorite ice cream and quick brewing by Nespresso to have the perfect affogato in mere seconds. No more complicated instructions to receive that indulgence of hot and cold, bitter and sweet. Plus you can customize your recipe with different varieties of Nespresso pods.

Espresso Negroni

We won’t be leaving the Negroni lovers out of National Coffee Day. This aperitif or after-dinner drink gets you buzzing with a dose of espresso followed by the classic taste of a Negroni. The Espresso Negroni is like the Espresso Martini and Negroni had the perfect child!

Espresso Spritz

When relaxing on a hot day, cool yourself down with our Espresso Spritz. This refreshing mixture of espresso and tonic can help you kickstart your day or give you an evening pick-me-up. Plus, the splash of fresh orange juice adds a citrusy touch that brings the espresso and tonic together. Or, you can experiment with your own favorite cocktail additions to modify the flavor.

Espresso Whiskey Martini

If you are not a martini or vodka fan, mix up an Espresso Whiskey Martini for an extra kick. This cocktail hits harder than a regular Espresso Martini. Plus, you’ll find the addition of sweet, hazelnut-y Frangelico as a happy welcome.

Mocha Truffles

Did you know Mocha Truffles can be a tasty, sugar-free treat to serve at your next gathering? The recipe engages simplicity too with just five ingredients being all your need and easy instructions. They’re also sure to relieve your sweet tooth when rolled in topping of unsweetened cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or freeze dried fruit.

Cardamom and Clove Oat Milk Latte

A latte in a yellow cup sits amongst various ingredients and a nespresso machine brewing a shot of espresso.

Let the spices of fall and winter join your morning coffee routine. This Cardamom and Clove Oat Milk Latte helps you wake up with warming flavors and a creamy finish. The best part is learning to make a Cardamom and Clove Simple Syrup that you can use in cocktails as well.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini

an overhead shot of two cocktails in martini glasses. down in color, with shaved chocolate on the rim, the pumpkin spice cocktails are garnished with a cinnamon stick

We couldn’t have an ode to National Coffee Day without the number one drink, the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Our martini version is perfect for those hard days after work where you need a little pick me up and a little comfort.

Shakerato Iced Caffè Corretto

An iced caffè coretto with a garnish of anise.

You have the choice to customize your own Shakerato with either limoncello, Sambuca, or Amaretto. Depending on the flavor profile you prefer then this simple mix of espresso and simple syrup either takes on citrusy, anise, or nutty notes.

Espresso Chocolate Spoons

On a grey table sits various spoons coated in chocolate and toppings with a red bow around each as a cup of espresso and a latte sit to the left of the spoons.

A little DIY project can turn into a coffee day or week gift for your friends and family. A couple of spoons from Dollar Tree, melted chocolate, and instant espresso powder can take your morning cup of coffee to the next level. Simply let your spoon rest in a cup of hot milk and voila!

Chocolate Espresso Martini

Take your Espresso Martini up a notch by using freshly brewed espresso and Dirty Chocolate Cream Liqueur. Don’t forget the extra shavings on top for a smooth, chocolatey finish.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Dessert Recipes to Fill the Thanksgiving Table

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 14, 2025

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A plate of Halloween cookies on a black background

Thanksgiving is a time of sharing, especially when it comes to the dessert table. While pumpkin pie is essential to Thanksgiving, there are plenty of other dessert recipes you can make instead. Or, you can even make these recipes in addition to your holiday favorites just to add a little something new to the table. Whether it’s a batch of sweet, decadent pumpkin cookies or a cake full of spice and tart cranberries, we’re sure your guests will enjoy a delectable treat to end the feast. Just be sure not to eat too much during dinner, you’ll want to save room for dessert.

Dessert Recipes to Fill the Thanksgiving Table

Spiced Cranberry Tart

If you don’t have a tart on your dessert table then this recipe is the perfect addition. Cranberry season is a gift to our taste buds and we’re taking full advantage of this time. Our Spiced Cranberry Tart takes this winter staple ingredient and blankets it in a crunchy, oat-based crust and cinnamon.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Can’t decide between cheesecake and pumpkin pie? Turns out you don’t have to if you make our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies. These flavorful cookies have a smooth and luxurious cheesecake center that leaves you needing more than one. Plus when you decorate these cookies with pumpkins on top, it makes for a festive centerpiece to any table.

Apple Crisp

If you choose to go more traditional this holiday season, make up an Apple Crisp that’s warm and gooey, fresh out of the oven. Here, fresh orchard-picked apples join a medley of brown sugar, pecans, and cinnamon for a bite of fall in every spoonful. If you really want to treat your guests, you can add a scoop of ice cream on the side.

Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake

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

Store bought cakes or box mix just won’t work for this special gathering of friends and family. Bake up a Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake that truly infuses all the essential ingredients of the transition to winter. Think cinnamon, orange zest, nutmeg, mascarpone cheese, and of course, plenty of cranberries. Not to mention, the presentation of this dessert is simply gorgeous.

Sweet Potato Cheesecake

Rather than sweet potato pie, try a Sweet Potato Cheesecake instead. It’s got a combination of sweet potato and pumpkin pie spice along with cream cheese to make a mouthwatering filling. The crust is also made of gingersnap cookies to add a little extra spice and some crunch to each bite you take.

Dutch Apple Pie with a Twist

A slice of Dutch Apple Pie sits on a white plate. Dutch Apple Pie recipe

Pie and the holidays go together like peanut butter and jelly. This Dutch Apple Pie with a Twist uses sour cream to create a creamy, tangy apple filling unlike any pie you’ve had before. Though, we have to say, the crumbly, crispy topping may be our favorite part of this warm slice of deliciousness.

Dark Rum Blondies

These Dark Rum Blondies offer a rich and sophisticated twist on the classic dessert bar, making them an ideal, grown-up treat for Thanksgiving. The chewy, buttery blondies are infused with dark rum, which deepens the sweetness of this treat.

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

Three slices of pumpkin cheesecake on brown plates are arranged on a multicolored surface, each slice topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Forget the pie this year, our Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is the elegant, spiced centerpiece your holiday table needs. A velvety, pumpkin cream cheese filling cushions the warm, aromatic embrace of classic fall spices and a buttery crust made of gingersnaps.

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

A green plate full of Martha Stewart cookies in chocolate chip and white chocolate strawberry varieties.

Inspired by Martha Stewart, these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are a quintessential holiday dessert. After all, who doesn’t love a chocolate chip cookie? But in case you want to switch things up there’s also a recipe here for a white chocolate strawberry version.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Next Level Thanksgiving Recipes from Chef Cory Hughes

By

Abdul Rafay

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November 14, 2025

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A visually stunning and next level Thanksgiving feast, featuring a beautifully arranged plate with a centerpiece of roasted figs and ash-covered delicacies, showcasing the creativity and elevated flavors of a modern holiday celebration. — Cory Hughes in the kitchen at Fig & Ash.

For some, the best part of Thanksgiving is the food. Others put family, whether found or biological, at the heart of the holiday. Others, like chef Cory Hughes of Fig & Ash, choose a combination of both as long as the holiday ends with a nap.

“Thanksgiving is our first cold-weather holiday,” the chef says, “and I want warm, nourishing, stick-to-your-ribs kind of food… warm comfort food that is going to give me a nap afterward.”

Warm, earthy, delicious food is exactly what you’ll find in the Thanksgiving recipes Cory shares with TABLE readers. His menu of favorites includes classic dishes elevated by sporting twists like the turkey breast that takes a dip in the sous vide or the savory, earthy addition of squash to his turnover riff on apple pie. The chef’s layered flavors shine in delicious, creamy risotto and Brussels sprouts studded with salty, savory bites of venison jerky. A spicy hint of maple-chipotle butter adds a new level of taste to oven-roasted sweet potatoes.

And, Cory says, this menu makes the perfect post-Thanksgiving sandwich. “A little tiny turkey sandwich on a biscuit with gravy and a little cranberry sauce? That’s a dream.”

Next Level Thanksgiving Recipes with Chef Cory Hughes

Turkey Breast Sous Vide

An elevated take on the Thanksgiving classic, using the French “sous vide” technique to get maximum flavor from the meat.

Turkey Sausage Gravy and Flaky Biscuit

A comforting and savory dish featuring homemade flaky biscuits smothered in a rich and flavorful turkey sausage gravy, offering a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.

Gravy often gets pushed to the side, literally, on the plate. But in this recipe, paired with homemade biscuits, it gets to be the main event.

Baby Yams with Maple-Chipotle Compound Butter

Maple-chipotle butter is the star of the show in these tender yams from Cory Hughes. These yams prove that a little seasoning goes a long way.

Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Seeds and Venison Jerky

Roasted to perfection, these tender and flavorful Brussels sprouts make a delightful side dish, featuring a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and a hint of sweetness, complemented by a subtle smoky undertone.

Farro Risotto with Mushrooms and Taleggio

A wholesome and farro risotto made with earthy mushrooms, and indulgent Taleggio cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying dish with a rustic and comforting appeal.

Still prepping your Thanksgiving feast? Check out our other recipes to make this holiday the best yet.

Sweet Potato Sides

Stuffing Recipes

Dessert Recipes

Thanksgiving Drinks

Story by Maggie Weaver
Recipes by Cory Hughes
Photography by Dave Bryce

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9 Recipes Utilizing Apple Cider

By

Jordan Snowden

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November 14, 2025

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Sliced apples surrounded by liquid sit in two mason jars with handles — Photo by Alexander Mils

Maybe you can’t drink any more apple cider this season. Or maybe you’re simply looking for recipes to incorporate that wonderful spiced autumn flavor. From a mouthwatering chocolate cake to a somewhat healthy cocktail with kombucha, we’ve selected a few recipes for you to make use of the season’s abundance of apple cider. Plus, on November 18, you’ll want to make sure you have a jug of cider on hand for National Apple Cider Day. Any of the recipes below make for a delicious celebration.

Recipes for Celebrating National Apple Cider Day

Vegan Apple Cider Muffins

These Vegan Apple Cider Muffins are soft, fluffy, oil-free, and full of chunky apples and cinnamon spice. Delicious fresh out of the oven and even better finished with a streusel topping!

Cider-Glazed Pork Loin with Roasted Apples and Potatoes

A simple glaze makes this Cider-Glazed Pork Loin recipe a perfect weeknight dinner… but it’s also good enough for a special Sunday meal, too.

Cranberry Kombucha Apple Cider Rum Punch

A splendid winter sunset gifts us with a dose of color to liven up the somewhat gray tapestry of our dimmest season. This fruity punch does the same work with layers of color and fresh, lively flavors. Plus… kombucha, so it must be healthy too?

Gluten-Free Whole Grain Apple Cider Layer Cake

An Whole Grain Apple Cider Layer Cake covered in chocolate frosting and white decor like pinecone and cinnamon sticks.

Classic holiday spices and a hint of whiskey combine in this moist apple cake with a dark chocolate frosting. It’s gluten-free to please a holiday crowd. The cake in the photo was really festive with the garnishes, but it stands on its own if you’re not feeling so ornate.

Savory Stuffed Apples with Apple Cider Reduction

Savory Stuffed Apples served in small plates with four forks on the side

This allergy-free savory stuffed apple recipe works as a side dish for your holiday dinner or a festive standalone meal for one or two guests. With traditional Thanksgiving ingredients such as apples, turkey, wild rice, and lots of fresh herbs, it’s nostalgic and whimsical and will make your guests feel like they’re getting extra-special treatment.

Apple Cider Negroni

Three Orchard Negroni cocktails with blood orange wedges, garnished with red currants and surrounded by cookies.

This recipe is a cozy, bourbon-infused twist on the classic Negroni, swapping the traditional gin for bourbon and incorporating apple cider. The result is a smooth, pleasantly sweet, and slightly smoky cocktail that is perfect for sipping on chilly nights.

Apple Cider Pumpkin Bread

This quick bread combines the flavors of fresh pumpkin and sweet apple cider. Plus, we’re keeping you warm with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. A topping of sliced Gala apples, brown sugar, ginger, and chopped almonds crusts perfectly on top.

Apple Cider Manhattan Game Day Cocktail

2 identical whisky cocktails in rocks glasses, garnished with lemon peel with a black background

The traditional Manhattan gets a new face by adding fresh apple cider, which balances the bourbon and winter spices. Sip on a lovely combination of whiskey, red vermouth, apple cider, fresh lemon juice, and Angostura bitters. It’s a little less potent and a lot more delicious.

Apple Cider Margarita

A refreshing tang of lime and citrus notes of Cointreau are the perfect match for sweet apple cider. Whenever you finish our Apple Cider Margarita off with tequila, orange juice, and mulling spices, you get the fall season in a glass.

Story by Jordan Snowden

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Thanksgiving Drinks to Inspire Gratitude This Year

By

Emma Riva

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November 14, 2025

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Thanksgiving has its worries: stressful travel, too-familiar foods, and maybe a few contentious relatives. It’s not quite the full blast of Christmas, and the fun of Halloween has run its course. And if you don’t like turkey…you’re out of luck. But for your next Thanksgiving gathering, consider putting a new spin on the holiday by making one of these Thanksgiving drinks. Both cocktails and mocktails abound, so everyone can enjoy. Making a creative seasonal drink, prepared with care, is one way to show your guests you’re thankful for their presence at your table.

Thanksgiving Drinks for Your Holiday Table

Thyming is Everything

A Thanksgiving cocktail with apple and thyme

We designed this Thanksgiving cocktail with apple, thyme, vodka, and sparkling apple cider specifically for a fall gathering. It’s easy to make and uses ingredients you most likely already have in your kitchen!

Apple Cider Manhattan

Indulge in autumnal flavors with this delicious Manhattan. You can sub out the Dubliner whiskey we used for any whiskey of your choosing. Also, one benefit is that the dilution of apple cider in this Manhattan means that guests can have more than one of these at a dinner party and not feel guilty!

Bloody Beet Red Mocktail

A blood beet red mocktail sits in a tall glass with black salt on the rim and a skull sitting in the background.

This was originally imagined as a Halloween recipe, but its ruby color works just as well to celebrate the fall season. A beautiful drink that everyone can enjoy!

Aperol Spritz

A cocktail for Leo with red liquid in a wine glass topped with an orange slice and surrounded by crystals on the table.

Nothing says appreciating the little things in life like sipping on an aperol spritz any time of year. Aperitivos encourage you to slow down and enjoy your food. A plate of olives, cheese, prosciutto, and some spritzes is a great way to start off a more upscale Thanksgiving dinner.

Smokin’ Apple Mocktail

A Thankgiving dinner table set with a mocktail garnished with apple

If you want to lose the booze this Thanksgiving, it doesn’t mean giving up quality gathering time around the Thanksgiving table. A non-alcoholic twist on the Thanksgiving drink menu, this Smokin’ Apple will be a crowd-pleaser among kids and adults like.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini

A martini is a great cocktail for any gathering, but making this fall-inspired version of it can show off your home bartending skills. Maybe pair it with a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert!

Hot Honey Toddy

This hot honey toddy makes for a cozy way to end a night with friends and family, especially if the night has gotten cold.

Spice is Nice Sangria, A Batch Cocktail

A pitcher filled with a dark red sangria cocktail garnished with cinnamon sticks and star anise pods, as described in the recipe for the "Spice is Nice Sangria" batch cocktail.

Need a cocktail that you can batch easily for your giant family gathering? This Spice is Nice Sangria comes together with Cabernet wine, chai tea, Giffard vanilla, and star anise. Choose to make it by single serving ingredients or batched to handle 40 guests at once.

Kid’s Choice Mocktail

A tall glass of an orange and yellow kid's choice cocktail, garnished with a lime slice and mint, sits on a dark surface.

Don’t leave the kiddos out of the Thanksgiving celebration! this Kid’s Choice Mocktail puts the flavors of fall into a spirit-free refreshment. Simply mix together brown sugar, water, cinnamon, apple cider, lemon juice, and lemon soda. Plus you can make this a cocktail for the adults with the addition of your favorite vodka, whiskey, or rum.

Try our Dessert Recipes to Fill the Thanksgiving Table

Story by Emma Riva

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Mac and Cheese Recipes for a Cozy Kitchen

By

Emma Riva

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November 11, 2025

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Mac and cheese is a classic for a reason. From the boxed mac and cheese you ate in college to the baked mac and cheese you bring to potlucks, mac and cheese is one of the best-loved comfort foods with the most longevity out there. It’s easy, adaptable, and a crowd-pleaser for picky eaters. If you’re looking for some mac and cheese recipes to try out, we’ve compiled some of our favorites for a cozy comfort food kitchen.

Mac and Cheese Recipes for a Cozy Kitchen

Easy Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies

This recipe uses bone broth to pack some protein into the otherwise carb-forward mac and cheese. The veggies might be hidden, but they still bring some delicious flavors into the mixture. Maybe a good strategy for getting kids to eat their vegetables on the down-low?

Baked Mac and Cheese by Aunt Cheryl

A white baking dish holds a baked Mac and Cheese with a small white plate of the mac and cheese nearby.

People had better come hungry for this recipe. It will make you the most popular person at any gathering, serving a crowd of at least ten people depending on how you proportion it out. You can customize it with spices and different recipes.

Juneteenth Mac and Cheese

An aerial shot of mac and cheese, orange in color, sitting in a blue casserole dish. — The Netflix series ‘High on the Hog’ made us look at this classic dish with new eyes.

One interesting fact about mac and cheese is that James Hemings, an enslaved man on Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello plantation, may have been the chef who originally popularized it in America. Hemings’s technique was to cook the mac and cheese in half-milk half-water, which TABLE tried, to a delicious result.

Mac and Cheese with Green Chile

Baked mac and cheese in a pan on a dark green background

Try a Southwestern spin on mac and cheese! This recipe from James Beard-nominated chef Cheryl Alters Jamison uses three different cheeses, a top layer of bread crumbs, and New Mexico green chile to give it a kick.

Go-To Cheddar Mac and Cheese

A blue pot of cheddar shell mac and cheese in a yellow color with a wooden spoon stuck inside it.

If you need a classic cheddar mac and cheese then this recipe is for you. We think shells are the best pasta for making mac and cheese since the shape lets the cheesy sauce seep inside. Plus, feel free to top this traditional recipe with pulled pork, mushrooms, or bacon.

Homemade Mac and Cheese with Five Cheeses

A delicious casserole dish of macaroni and cheese, made with a variety of cheeses and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni.

Mac and cheese is best whenever you load is up with a variety of cheese that each bring a different flavor profile. For this Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe we’re using sharp cheddar, pepper jack, mozzarella, Gruyere, and Gouda.

Story by Emma Riva

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Stay Busy with These Pittsburgh Thanksgiving Events

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 9, 2025

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A man in a grey windbreaker jacket with a turkey hat running in a race.

While November has just begun, it’s never too early to start celebrating the holidays. Spend the festive season doing some good for a local nonprofit, going out with friends and family, or just picking out what you’re grateful for this year with these Thanksgiving events in Pittsburgh.

Stay Busy with These Pittsburgh Thanksgiving Events

Flight Night at Kingfly Spirits – Thanksgiving Edition

Kingfly Spirits, November 19

The ever-popular monthly themed “flight night” that allows guests to taste four mini bites with four spirit pairings returns for a Thanksgiving edition. This fall, taste savory seasonal flavors along with selected liquors from Kingfly.

Thanksgiving Dinner Wines

PA Market, November 19

Need help deciding what wines to serve at your Thanksgiving table? PA Market invites you to sample various types of wine to pair with your turkey and even your favorite side dishes. All bottles are available to purchase at PA Market making your grocery trip an easy one.

It’s Giving… “Thanks”

The Library on Carson, November 21

Anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community or allys beyond can come together to feast and gather with others. Not only does your ticket include a full Thanksgiving feast but you’ll also party along to a live DJ and drag show, meet others through friendship icebreakers, and just simply be who you are in a judgement-free zone for the holidays.

Gather & Give: Friendsgiving Potluck

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Mt. Washington, November 22

Connect with those from all walks of life this Thanksgiving. PGH Women’s Sip & Support invites you to bring a favorite potluck dish, share the story behind your recipe, and reflect on the Indigenous traditions that make Thanksgiving what it is. Most importantly, the event collects non-perishable food donations for the Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center Food Bank to support Native Pittsburgh families in need.

Highmark Light up Night

Downtown, November 22

Celebrate the transition from Thanksgiving to the holiday season with Pittsburgh’s Light Up Night. It’s an evening filled with tree and building lightings throughout the city. Plus, enjoy holiday markets, ice skating, live entertainment, and more fireworks than ever before.

Thanksgiving Blooms Workshop

A&N Garden and Greenhouse, November 23

Do you need a flower arrangement to adorn your dining table or living room area? Why not create your arrangement yourself and ensure it’s exactly how you like it? You’ll turn a regular pumpkin into a masterpiece with burgundy, yellow, and orange blooms. Plus you can bring along your favorite snacks and beverage to enjoy during your class.

Harvest Centerpiece Floral Design With Soren Soto of Galleria Botanica

Contemporary Craft, November 25

Nothing will make your feel better than telling guests your centerpiece was made by yours truly. Unleash your inner florist in this engaging, three-hour class where you’ll design a luscious fall centerpiece perfect for any holiday table. Soto, an FDI certified floral designer, will guide attendees through the fundamentals of floral design, element placement, and flower care. No matter your skill level, everyone leaves with a beautiful, custom arrangement and new floristry talents.

Ditch Day Pittsburgh “Thanksgiving Eve” Edition

Velum Fermentation, November 26

Kick off the holiday season early at a Thanksgiving Eve celebration full of music and fun. Hosted at Velum Fermentation, this daytime party invites guests to relax, sip, and enjoy good company before the holiday rush begins. With craft drinks and festive vibes, it’s the perfect way to start the long weekend. We recommend taking this time to bring together all your friends who are home for the holidays to warm things up.

YMCA Turkey Trot

Downtown and North Side, November 27

Every year, members of the Pittsburgh community race through the city to help fight food insecurity. Participants are encouraged to bring needed non-perishable food donations to the event, which are given to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. This year, races include a 1-mile family fun race, a 5k race, a 5-mile race, and a Double Gobble 5K plus 5-mile race.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with These 8 Pittsburgh Chocolate Makers

By

Keith Recker

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November 9, 2025

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Pittsburgh’s family-owned chocolate makers satisfy our cravings with sugar and spice and everything nice. Perfect for holiday gifts, birthday presents, or just a sweet treat for yourself!

Pittsburgh Chocolate Makers

Sinful Sweets

Making their gourmet handmade chocolates since 2011, Sinful Sweets is a go-to for classics like truffles and pretzels but breaks the mold with funky bars like their viral “Angel Hair” which marries white chocolate with delicate cotton candy strands. “My family owns a traditional chocolate-making business in Chicago, and I’m always breaking the rules a little bit. I love making candy for kids and families, and supporting Pittsburghers with this business,” says founder Chris Wreck. Sinful Sweets has a primary location in Beaver Falls and secondary locations at both Ross Park Mall and South Hills Village Mall.

Tabbara Artisan Chocolate

Ever try a banana caramel or a matcha bonbon? Comforting indulgence meets a sense of wonder with Nancy Tabbara reviving three generations of family tradition. Her exquisitely crafted chocolates blend the sophistication of mid-century Beirut with contemporary flavor and design. Classics like chocolate-covered macadamia clusters and candied orange peel join modern fantasies like beautiful-to-behold chocolate bonbons filled with passion fruit or raspberry jelly and vanilla ganache. Check them out for seasonal and holiday themed assortments, too. Think tiny ghosts for Halloween and autumn leaf-inspired color palettes for fall.

Sarris Candies

Founded by Frank Sarris about 60 years ago, and now run by his son, Bill, and other family members, Sarris Candies is all about quality and generosity. Well-known for their philanthropy and for empowering the fundraising efforts of schools and organizations around the country, the company is also a source of a vast variety of delicious sweets. Their chocolate-covered pretzels and potato chips are popular salty-and-sweet crowd-pleasers. A true “all-occassion” shop, find themed BashCakes® or browse their yearly editorial-level holiday catalog. But the big picture is much broader, and best experienced with a visit to the flagship Sarris store in Canonsburg.

Toffee Taboo

Toffee lovers, this one’s for you. All in Good Taste Productions founder and award-winning chef Bob Sendall started this chocolate line in 2004 with his signature Toffee Taboo. The recipe? Start with toffee-encrusted almonds and cashews in dark Belgian chocolate. Top with kosher salt and drizzles of white and dark chocolate. Infuse the combo with Sendall’s always upbeat, always sunny energy, and you have one of Pittsburgh’s most delectable sweet treats. Handmade to order, you might even find seasonal variety available around the holidays for a limited time.

Milkshake Factory

Run by Pittsburgh natives since 1914, The Milkshake Factory, a modern twist on the old-fashioned soda shop, features flavors including Peanut Butter Brownie, Bananas Foster, and Chocolate Raspberry Truffle. Limited edition items appear every season, including creamy Hot Chocolate and festive shakes. They even have dairy-free options and note a commitment to sustainable cocoa sourcing. At locations in and around Pittsburgh, enjoy a selection of hand-dipped strawberries, chocolate barks, cake pops, and more. The company went national in 2023, offering its delicious chocolate treats to sweets lovers across the U.S.

Lux Artisan Chocolates

Shelby Ortz began her exploration of tempting flavors and beautiful food compositions in the pastry kitchens of Eleven and Soba. She struck out on her own in 2013 with Lux Artisan Chocolates, her all-handmade, all-natural line of chocolate bars, bonbons, and more. Her bonbons truly look like a work of modern art and you get in on the creativity yourself by designing your own chocolate bar with a selection of ingredients ranging from sesame brittle to dried mission figs. We’re big fans of her bars ourselves, and there are several hidden in drawers around the office. Our favorites? Dark chocolate with macadamia, almond, and coconut.

Pollak’s Candies

Run by third generation chocolatier Dick Pollak, Pollak’s Candies recently took home a gold spot on the Trib Live’s Best of the Best list. Boasting an impressive mix of traditional and timely treats, Pollaks offers a selection that can meet any craving or occasion. Explore classic meltaways, cordials, creams, and truffles or get a little adventurous by trying their Dubai chocolate cups. Perfect for gifting or hosting, these candymakers are always offering beautifully decorated seasonal barks, brittles, caramels, and more. They even have a stunning 48-piece truffle assortment that we’d be absolutely tickled to receive ourselves.

Peter’s Chocolate Shoppe

If you find yourself north of the city, stop into downtown Butler to grab a treat from Peter’s Chocolate Shoppe, winner of the Butler Eagle’s 2025 Best Candy Shop. Unique to Peter’s is their generous selection of sugar-free chocolates that they offer alongside their sugary classics. Started by the Meliotis family in 1938 and bought by the Steinheiser family in 1999, this still-family-run shop (or should we say “shoppe”) maintains small-batch production with the finest ingredients and has even maintained some vintage equipment. Find an assortment of creams, meltaways, turtles, nougat, and holiday selections like molded chocolate bunnies and advent calendars.

Story and Styling by Keith Recker
Photography by Dave Bryce

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