Impress your kids and all the guests at your Halloween party with these spooky, delicious, and creative treats

If you’ve already sorted out your crew’s costumes and carved up your pumpkin, and you’ve still got time, how about crafting up a few easy Halloween treats? We’ve got all the goodies (and even Halloween-themed dinners) for kids you could ever want, from healthy(ish) picks to snacks inspired by creepy crawlers.

Cute Halloween Cat Treats

A black cat cookie with candy corn eyes
A Taste of Madness

Whole Wheat Black Cat Cookies. How cute are these kitty cookies from A Taste of Madness? You don’t need special cookie cutters to make them, and the kiddos can help top them off with adorable candy corn eyes. Using wheat flour helps make them a little more wholesome than your average dessert, too. 

Black Cat Oreo Treats.
These treats from Moments with Mandi are sure to impress your little ones—they’re (almost) too cute to eat. We love the wide eyes drawn on the chocolate candies and the chocolate chip “ears.” 

Classic Betty Crocker Black Cat.
Your kittens will go crazy for this delish cake from Betty Crocker. No fancy pans are required for this one—just round cake pans and a bit of clever cutting to make the cat shape. Topped off with licorice whiskers, it’ll be just as tasty as it looks.

Black Cat Cutout Cookies. For an easy but delicious treat, make these cutout cats from Cinnamon Girl. The recipe is pretty straightforward, and you can let your little sous chefs dot on watchful eyes once the cookies have cooled. 

Related: Easy Halloween Decorations You Can Make for About $5

Mummy-Themed Easy Halloween Treats

Madeleine cookies are decorated to look like mummies and Minions for Halloween treats
Sugar Bowl Bakery

Mummy Madeleines. These Madeleine Mummies and Minions look like you slaved away in the kitchen, but they're fuss free. Just put some white frosting in a piping bag with a cross-hatch tip, then make lines or zigzags before popping on some candy eyes and sprinkles. We tend to love these soft and fluffy traditional or pumpkin spice Madeleines from Sugar Bowl Bakery.

Mummified Oreos. How Does She serves up a spooktacular assortment of haunted treats, including to-die-for Mummy Oreo Suckers. And think about it: If you can make Oreos into something cute, what other cookies can you transform?

Halloweeño Jalapeño Popper Mummies
. If you’re a fan of spice, this hot idea from The Hopeless Housewife is sure to startle your taste buds. Terrifyingly simple to bake, these Jalapeño Popper Mummies make a great savory appetizer for your Halloween bash.

Mummy Pretzels. This salty, sweet, and spooky treat is scarily simple to make. The most difficult step according to Simply Being Mommy is waiting for the chocolate to cool and harden before eating!

Witch-Inspired Halloween Treats

Decorated chocolate kisses sit on top of Oreos to create the Halloween treat Witch Hat Cookies
Princess Pinky Girl

Witch Hat Cookies. This super easy recipe from Princess Pinky Girl results in adorable witch hat treats in no time flat. Gather up Oreos and chocolate kisses plus a few other ingredients for this party-ready dessert.  

Witch Guacamole Dip. Bright green guacamole glows from underneath a tortilla chip hat in Spicy Southern Kitchen’s Witch Guacamole.  Mash up some avocados or grab your fave store-bought guac as the base for this healthy Halloween treat. 

Butterscotch Brooms.
Every witch needs her broom, so you’ve got to whip up some cute broomsticks inspired by From Calculus to Cupcakes. They’re super quick to throw together, and they hit the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Deathly Chocolate Graveyard Cakes. We think this spooktastic dessert from Half Baked Harvest is genius. With gravestones made out of brownies and witch legs made out of rolled wafer cookies, decorating them is half the fun. 

Easy Halloween Treats That Aren’t Too Sugary

Low-sugar pumpkin mousse sits in a bowl
Super Healthy Kids

Mousse Made Easy. Looking for a kid-approved party dessert that won’t scare away adults? Like a light, fluffy piece of pumpkin pie without the crust, this pumpkin mousse from Super Healthy Kids uses only six simple ingredients. Prep it in advance and make the most of your time with guests. 

Awesome Apple Cupcakes. Love the taste of old-fashioned Halloween treats? Take a trip down memory lane with luscious fall flavors of apple and cinnamon. These beautiful cupcakes from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free will remind you of the sweet caramel apples of your youth without too much of the sticky stuff.

Not-So-Basic Bark. Turn after-school grumps into giggly ghouls with this super-cute candy bark from Fork and Beans. Vegan and gluten-free with no icky preservatives, you’ll love getting your (somewhat healthy) chocolate fix. It’ll take a few steps to get to the finished product, but we promise this bark will make you want to take a big bite. 

 

(Sort of) Nutritious Halloween Treats

Mini monster sandwiches topped with olive eyes
My Own Road

Monster Sandwiches. What's a monster mash without monster sandwiches? This idea from My Own Road is an easy way to ensure that there's hearty food on your Halloween menu—you know, before the giant sugar rush. Plus, it's a cinch to customize these mini monster sandwiches with your fam's fave deli meat and fillings.

Halloween-Themed Sushi Balls. These adorable Halloween-themed sushi balls from Chopstick Chronicles are fairly easy to make, and you can change up the ingredients according to your little monster's palate. Put a bunch together as a main dish or spread them around as creepy little sides.

Frozen BOO-nana Ghosts. These ghost-shaped boo-nana popsicles are a fun treat the kids will love making as much as eating. Erin Clarke at Well Plated takes the healthy route and dips the banana shapes into vanilla yogurt rather than white chocolate—and you can turn these treats into mummies with a bit of peanut butter, caramel or nut butter, and coconut sugar.

Hooting Owls. Not as spooky as ghosts and gravestones but how can you resist these delicious Halloween owls? Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on crackers and add sliced and whole almonds for this nocturnal nibble from Charity Mathews at Foodlets.

Related: 30 Perfectly Spooky Halloween Books to Read This Year

Creepy, Crawly Treats

Bakerella

Spider Cake Pops. One bite of these creepy crawly cake pops and you might understand why the old lady swallowed the spider. Wriggle over to Bakerella to learn to make these eerily delicious arachnids. Hint: The placement is all about timing.

Dirt and Worms Pudding Cups. We dig this easy-to-make dessert from Like Mother Like Daughter. Great for serving the kids at your Halloween party, they’re also fun for spring and Earth Day, too.

Creepy Corn Dog Centipedes. Hungry Happenings transformed ordinary mini corn dogs into a Halloween centipede, complete with ketchup eyes. If your kids like creepy crawlers and enjoy playing with their food, this might be the snack for you.

Jello Worms. Mel’s Kitchen Cafe used straws and a package of gelatin to make this squirmy Halloween treat. While they might gross out older ghosts, these squiggly creatures are sure to be a hit with your little goblins, and they’re super easy to make.

Kooky Halloween Monster Treats

These Halloween treats are chocolate monster cookies with candy googly eyes, chewy chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate ganache.
Self Proclaimed Foodie

Chocolate Monster Cookies. We’d welcome these monster cookies from Self Proclaimed Foodie to any Halloween party. The secret lies in the edible googly eyes—but don’t forget the perfect chocolate chip cookies and chocolate ganache.

S’more Monsters. What’s better than s’mores? S’mores that look like monsters! You won’t need a campfire to create this delicious Halloween-themed treat from Jodi Levine over at Say Yes, but you will need cookies, marshmallows, and little helping hands.

Dangerous Donuts. Donuts get a monstrous makeover with this snack from A Spicy Perspective that the little ones will go crazy for. Either make ahead for your guests or lay out the supplies and let the kids take creative control. You’ll need some plastic vampire fangs, sprinkles, and you guessed it… candy eyes.

Chocolate Monster Pops. You’ll have plenty of little monsters gathering around a batch of these chocolate Frankensteins from Handmade Charlotte. The supplies include basic baking stuff: chocolate bars, coconut, and icing. We are especially zinging with delight over the Hershey Kiss neck bolts. 

Related: 36 Halloween Movies That Aren’t Too Scary for Kids

Ghost-Inspired Treats

Sugar Bowl Bakery

Brownie Bites with Fondant Ghosts. Need a last-minute Halloween treat? We love these adorable desserts from Sugar Bowl Bakery that use store-bought brownie bites and small pieces of fondant to create the perfect, non-scary ghost friend.

3-Ingredient Easy Ghost Cookies. The only thing scary about these cookies from Butter with a Side of Bread is how easy they are to make. All you need are Milano cookies, white chocolate, and small chocolate chips to whip up these friendly, Casper-style sweets.

Ghosts in the Graveyard Dessert Shooters. Don't worry, these alcohol-free treats from Sugarspun Run are for everyone! Think OREO dirt cup with a marshmallow ghost that is fun and easy to make.

Frightfully Easy Halloween Cupcake Treats

Easy to make RIP cupcakes with chocolate wafers, pumpkin shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers and chocolate frosting.
Christal Yuen

Ghoulish Graveyard. What you'll need: crumbled chocolate wafers, pumpkin-shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers, and chocolate frosting. What to do: After covering the chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting, crush chocolate wafers and sprinkle them over the frosting as "dirt." Set a pumpkin-shaped candy corn on top and write "RIP" on the vanilla wafer before planting it in the "graveyard."

Wicked Witch. What you'll need: green icing, one straw cut in half, and gum drops. What to do: Frost your cupcake in plenty of bright green frosting. Snip your straw in half, and slice a red gum drop down the center, so you have two identical halves (and a pair of ruby slippers). Stick one to each end of the straws and lay the "legs" on your serving platter. Now lay your cupcake house upside down on top of the legs. We can almost hear Dorothy trotting away in glee. 

Not-So-Scary Mummy. What you'll need: Mini M&Ms and white frosting. What to do: Using a piping bag (either store-bought or DIY), place lines across your cupcake to form your mummy's bandages and then two affix candy eyes.

Caught in a Spiderweb. What you'll need: White frosting and black gel icing. What to do: After frosting the cupcake in white, use your gel icing to make three concentric circles on top. Take a toothpick and, starting in the center, drag the toothpick through the icing to the edge (imagine slicing a pizza) to create the spooky spiderweb effect.

Save yourself some major time (and stress!) with these picky eater hacks!

The struggle is real when it comes to the battle of the picky eater. Even if you’ve made sure to follow all the “rules” about starting your little ones out with a variety of foods so that they have a taste for lots of different flavors or not forcing them to eat anything, it’s entirely possible you’ve still ended up with a picky eater. And that’s completely okay! You’re most definitely not alone. The good news is that you don’t have to dread every food interaction with these brilliant picky eater hacks!

There are some fabulous ideas out there to make getting your little ones to eat. Or, at least, to get the nutrition they need if they aren’t willing to eat a balanced diet. We’ve found some of the best supplements, books, tools, and of course snack and meal ideas that make eating not just easier, but also, dare we say, fun? There are lots of solutions available, and we have some of the best right here. And not to worry—lots of kiddos grow out of their picky eater stage eventually, and, quite honestly, as long as they’re actually eating, you can consider that a win, too! These picky eater hacks will just make it so much simpler!

Kabrita Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder

Kabrita is an easy way to get your kids the nutrition they need! It has a mild flavor that little ones love and each glass of their Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder is 6g of gentle A2 protein, along with prebiotics and added probiotics to help support a healthy gut! Kabrita Junior is an ideal nutritional boost for picky eaters—fortified with DHA, and vitamins C, D and E to support their immune system. And keep an eye out for Kabrita at Costo soon!

Kabrita Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder ($42.49)—Buy Now

Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese

One of the many glowing reviews of the Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese from John P. raves that the "These puffs are our son’s favorite; always a hit!". They taste fantastic and are an awesome first finger food! And keep an eye out for Kabrita at Costo soon!

Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese ($9.99)—Buy Now

Zollipops

The "after you eat treat" is smile-friendly, thanks to ingredients that help neutralize the acidity and raise the pH level in your mouth. High acidity contributes to tooth decay, so by reducing acidity, Zollipops can help teeth re-mineralize faster and make them stronger and harder!

Zollipops ($9.95)—Buy Now

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic

Probiotics keep not only your kiddos' bellies happy, they also contribute to boosting their immunity! For kiddos 3+, just add a flavorless, dissolvable packet to food like yogurt or applesauce. How easy is that?

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic ($19.25)—Buy Now

gimme Sea Salt Roasted Seaweed Sheets

Believe it or not, kids love these seaweed sheets! They have a crispy texture that's a lot of fun to snack on for little ones. Don't believe us? Check out this review from Amazon: "My kids love it. My 18 month old baby eats seaweed like candy. My 10 year old also has claimed this as her favorite snack." It's one of almost 22K reviews, too!

gimme Sea Salt Roasted Seaweed Sheets ($16.99)—Buy Now

GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz

No spoon, no fridge, no mess! Each serving of GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz pouch provides 4g of protein and is a great source of calcium and Vitamin D.

GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz ($4.39)—Buy Now

Clif Kid ZBAR Protein Granola Bars

From soccer practice to lunchboxes, these yummy ZBARs taste like a treat and contain 5g of protein per bar!

Clif Kid ZBAR Protein Granola Bars ($26.49)—Buy Now

Hint Kids Water Boxes

hint Kids Water has no calories, sugar, diet sweeteners, calories, preservatives, animal products, dairy, MSG, nuts, or gluten and comes in 4 fruit flavors!

Hint Kids Water Boxes ($20.31)—Buy Now

Simple Mills Sweet Thins Cookies

Coconut sugar and sunflower seed flour make these sweet snacks much healthier than regular cookies, plus they're super yummy!

Simple Mills Sweet Thins Cookies ($32.44 for pack of 6)—Buy Now

Disney Princess Healthy Treats

This kid-friendly cookbook has over 50 Disney Princess-inspired recipes!

Disney Princess Healthy Treats ($14.39)—Buy Now

Mavericks Cookies

Lightning bolt-shaped, plant-based, and with 40% less sugar than other brands? Mavericks Cookies are a total win.

Mavericks Cookies ($6.49)—Buy Now

Easy Peasie Vegetable Powder Blends

Veggie up anything with these veggie sprinkles from Easy Peasie! Simply put, they're non-GMO dried vegetables that have been ground up into shakable sprinkles that you can add to everything from spaghetti to smoothies to sweets. 

Easy Peasie Vegetable Powder Blends ($39.99)—Buy Now

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs is an Amazon #1 Best Seller and a #New York Times Best Seller and IACP Award Winner!

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs ($10.44)—Buy Now

SpinMeal

Designed by a mom with fussy eaters of her own, the SpinMeal lets you add different foods into the fun compartments and let kiddos spin the arrow and eat from the compartment where it lands!

SpinMeal ($19.99)—Buy Now

Match UP Memory Snack Tray

Fuel their minds and their bodies with this awesome memory snack game! Kids get to test their memories and snack away. It also makes sneaking a few new foods into their game much easier!

Match UP Memory Snack Tray ($17.57)—Buy Now

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

The phrase “healthy birthday cake” might sound like an oxymoron, but we’re here to tell you it can be done—and it can taste amazing too. We’ve rounded up a bunch of drool-worthy healthy cake recipes that are still big on flavor. Whether you’re looking for the best healthy chocolate cake recipe, a vanilla cake recipe, or even something vegan, you’ll find it here. Keep reading to get the scoop!

Vegan Funfetti Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

Orchids & Sweet Tea

A vegan birthday cake that doesn’t skimp on fun or flavor: sign us up! This sweet creation by Orchids + Sweet Tea is colorful inside and out, thanks to a healthy dose of rainbow sprinkles.

Carrot Cake Ice Cream Cake

Feasting on Fruit

It’ll be love at first bite with this deceptively healthy cake from Feasting on Fruit. The ice cream is made with frozen bananas, while the cake is sweetened with dates and coconut sugar.

Coconut Flour Cake

Well Plated

This lightened-up cake from Well Plated is a delicious pick for sensitive tummies, and it pairs perfectly with a fluffy coconut frosting. Top it off with sprinkles, and you’ve got a dessert everyone will rave about.

Cinnamon Chocolate Layer Cake

Green Smoothie Gourmet

Take your chocolate cake to the next level with this fabulous recipe from Green Smoothie Gourmet. A dash of cinnamon in the batter adds an extra dimension, and the dark chocolate frosting is a fitting finish. Oh, and it’s vegan and gluten-free!

Vegan Coconut, Orange and Chocolate Cake

Occasionally Eggs

Chocolate lovers, you’re in luck! This vegan treat from Occasionally Eggs is sure to be a hit. The cake is lightly flavored with orange juice and coconut milk, then topped with a heavenly whipped chocolate ganache.

Baby-Friendly Cake

Oh Everything Handmade

Bettina at Oh Everything Handmade whipped up this dessert for her baby’s first birthday—but the delish ingredients can be a hit with kids and adults of all ages. Think applesauce, bananas, cinnamon and nutmeg, with a cream cheese frosting to top everything off.

Chocolate Beet Cake with Chocolate Avocado Frosting

The Pretty Bee

Trust us, you can’t beat a beet cake. With this decadent dessert from The Pretty Bee, you get all of the fiber and antioxidants, but the beet flavor is totally hidden under all that chocolate-y goodness. Add on a super creative (and delicious!) avocado icing and you’re set for any celebration.

Chocolate Quinoa Cupcakes with Naturally Pink Frosting

Making Thyme for Health

How about some quinoa in your birthday cupcakes? Making Thyme for Health gives the traditional chocolate cupcake a healthy twist with quinoa, almond milk, and more. As for that pretty pink frosting? It’s colored using a little beet juice instead of fake dye!

Flourless Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cake

Chelsea’s Messy Apron

We’ve got to give major props to this cake from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. Not only does it showcase our fave fall flavors in a healthy way, but it’s also made in one bowl. That means less cleanup, more birthday party!

Best Gluten Free White Cake Ever

Yammie’s Gluten Freedom

Ahh, white cake. There’s a reason it’s a birthday staple. This version from Yammie’s Gluten Freedom has all the traits of the classic cake except for one update: it’s totally gluten-free.

Dye-Free Rainbow Cake

Itsy Bitsy Foodies

Want to give your kiddo a colorful cake but without all those iffy food dyes? Itsy Bitsy Foodies has come up with a way to do it thanks to veggie and fruit juice. The result? Totally wow-worthy and dye-free.

Healthy Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

HelloBee

Chocolate, banana, and peanut butter are pretty much a dynamic trio when it comes to birthday cake flavors. HelloBee makes this fudgy masterpiece with whole grain flour and a cute five-inch pan. Oh, and did we mention the cake is totally free of refined sugars?

Carrot Cake

Love & Lemons

What’s up, doc? Vegan carrot cake, that’s what! For your birthday kid, Love & Lemons has totally vegan-ized everyone’s favorite carrot-y treat. Special ingredients include applesauce, almond milk and frosting that uses macadamia nuts instead of cream cheese.

Kid-Approved Healthy Cake

Chocolate Covered Katie

This cake from Chocolate Covered Katie has been kid-tested and kid-approved. It’s light and fluffy like any good birthday cake, but it’s also got its fair share of fiber, selenium, manganese and protein. Don’t forget the healthy strawberry frosting!

Fig Newton Cupcakes

Amy’s Healthy Baking

Ready to give a classic cookie a whole new twist? These Fig Newton-inspired cupcakes from Amy's Healthy Baking are 100% whole wheat and made without refined flour or sugar—but they still have the same great flavor you know and love, thanks to a fun figgy filling.

Flowerless Whole Meyer Lemon Cake

The View From Great Island

You will love this delicious Flowerless Whole Meyer Lemon Cake from The View From Great Island. An entire lemon, peel and all, is used in the recipe, so you will not be missing any flavor!

Almond Flour Banana Cake

One Lovely Life

This Almond Flour Banana Cake from One Lovely Life is a tasty way to use up older bananas and make a healthier cake. This recipe is paleo-friendly, healthy and it will make everyone happy!

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Veggie Balance

If the typical birthday cake isn't your thing, then this Gluten Free Angel Food Cake From Veggie Balance is a sweet and light way to celebrate. This recipe is also dairy-free and nut-free!

— Taylor Clifton, Abigail Matsumoto & Susie Foresman

 

RELATED STORIES:

Easy Birthday Cake Decorating Ideas That Look Fancy

15 Vintage Birthday Cakes Like Grandma Used to Make

20 Healthy First Birthday Cakes (and Smash Cakes)

Featured image: Vlada Karpovich via Pexels

Are you ready to say goodbye to summer and hello to fall? To get you in the leaf-crunching spirit, we’ve rounded up some of the tastiest pumpkin spice goodies that are already hitting the shelves.

From festive fall coffee and autumn takes on classic treats, to decadent desserts, keep scrolling to see our favorite pumpkin products of the season.

Bougie Bakes Pumpkin Szn Bundle

Bougie Bakes Pumpkin Szn Bundle checks off all the boxes: soy, gluten, dairy, sugar and GMO free and packed with all the flavors you love. The seasonal bundle comes with pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and pumpkin pecan blondie bites.

Blake's Seed Based Pumpkin Spice Rice Crispy Treat

Fall-ify your rice crispy treats with pumpkin spice! Blake's Seed Based treats are free from tree nuts, peanuts, milk, egg, wheat, soy and sesame so everyone can enjoy.

Ellenos Pumpkin Pie Yogurt

This is hands down our editors fave Pumpkin yogurt of the season! Ellenos uses their own traditional Greek yogurt recipe that is crafted fresh milk sourced directly from a single local farmer. This limited edition flavor comes with a swirl of pumpkin spice filling and a pumpkin crumble for the full pumpkin pie feels!

You can find at your local grocer.

Pumpkin Pie Perfect Bar

Turn that protein-fueled snack break into a fall-inspired treat! Perfect Bar's Pumpkin Pie flavor is back for the season and tastes just like the dessert you know and love.

Tazo Chai Pumpkin Spice Latte Tea Concentrate

Skip the coffee shop line with this festive Tazo concentrate. Black tea is infused with pumpkin-inspired spices that taste great blended with milk.

Pumpkin & Cinnamon Grain Free Puffs with Olive Oil

Don't forget about the littles this fall! Serenity Kids special pumpkin and cinnamon puffs are non-GMO and USDA Organic certified, gluten free, and are packed with organic olive oil, organic dehydrated pumpkin, sweet potato, carrot, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove.

Nestlé Toll House Pumpkin Spice Cookie Dough

Whip up a batch of pumpkin spice in a flash with Nestlé Toll House's new cookie dough! The break and bake dough is made with everyone's fave pumpkin spice flavor and Premier White Morsels. You can find at your local grocer for $2.99.

Halo Top Pumpkin Pie

Run, don't walk to your closest freezer aisle to grab the limited edition Pumpkin Spice Halo top! Each pint comes with pumpkin light ice cream and flaky pie crust pieces––so basically irresistible goodness!

Two Good Good Save Pumpkin Greek Lowfat Yogurt

This isn't your regular pumpkin yogurt: its verified through the Full Harvest Verified Rescued Produce program that uses pumpkins that otherwise would have gone to waste! This limited edition yogurt has only only 2 grams of total sugar and is made with real pumpkin. You can find at Target, Kroger, Lowe’s, Key Foods and other retailers.

KIND's Limited-Edition Caramel Almond Pumpkin Spice Bar

This limited-edition Pumpkin Spice bar is a nice change from your other favorite KIND bars, but be sure to snag them soon because they won't be around forever. It still only has five grams of sugar and includes real pumpkin and whole nuts as ingredients! 

Buy them here, $23.98 for 12.

Little Bites Pumpkin Muffins

Your breakfast called: it wants these Little Bites pumpkin muffins! The tiny treats pack a big flavor, and we love them on-the-go, as a snack or alongside our morning coffee.

Pumpkin Spice Milano Cookies

Pumpkin and chocolate have infiltrated one of Pepperidge Farm's most famous cookies! Take a break from the OG and feast on this crispy cookie that is the very essence of fall.

Nature's Bakery Pumpkin Spice Whole Wheat Fig Bars

With hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, you'll love this snack bar option for the fall season. Real pumpkin is the star of this soft-baked bar that's perfect for school lunches. Get it now as it's only available in limited quantities. 

Get it here, $6. 

Oui by Yoplait Caramel Pumpkin Yogurt

If you already love the creamy version of Oui by Yoplait you'll definitely want to snag some seasonal flavors like Caramel Pumpkin. Made with real spices, it's basically dessert for breakfast!

Pumpkin Spice Cup Noodles

Cup Noodles is releasing a special pumpkin spice flavor to boldly jump into the autumnal game. The verdict is definitely out on this one! It’s made with a “special pumpkin seasoning” that infuses the noodles with the familiar flavor. Like all Cup Noodles products, it’s ready with a bit of water and four minutes in the microwave. 

If you decide to try it, you’ll be able to find Cup Noodles Pumpkin Spice exclusively at Walmart.

Partake Soft Baked Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Just because you have food allergies doesn't mean you have to miss out on the pumpkin spice fun. Partake's soft batch cookies are certified gluten-free and free of the top eight allergens. Enjoy the season with cookies that are made from a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and vanilla and taste as great as any other sweet treat.

Available at partakefoods.com.

Entenmann’s Pumpkin Pop'ems

Just need a little pumpkin to satisfy your cravings? These adorable pop'ems pack all the flavor but just a few does the trick.

DQ Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat & Pumpkin Cookie Butter Shake

Dairy Queen is bringing back the pumpkin! When it comes to The Pumpkin Pie Blizzard, enjoy real pumpkin pie pieces, vanilla soft serve, whipped topping and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Want to up your pumpkin intake? Be sure to grab a Pumpkin Cookie Butter Shake that brings together pumpkin and cookie butter and is made with pumpkin puree, cookie butter made from ground cinnamon spice cookies, vanilla soft serve, milk, whipped topping and ground nutmeg.

Pillsbury Grands! Pumpkin Spice Rolls  

Start your day off sweet with Pillsbury's Pumpkin Spice Rolls. The limited-edition can comes with five rolls and a package of pumpkin spice icing for topping, and is just $5 for two!

Pumpkin Spice Cheerios

Seasonal fave Pumpkin Spice Cheerios deserve a spot at your breakfast table. The gluten-free cereal are packed with seasonal spices that include cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Available wherever Cheerios are sold.

Pumpkin Spice Swirl Bread

Enjoy the perfect hint of pumpkin with Pepperidge Farm's Pumpkin Spice Swirl Bread! The combo of pumpkin and cinnamon is just what your breakfast ordered.

Coffee mate Pumpkin Spice Creamer

Coffee mate's number one pumpkin spice creamer is returning for the fall. Available also in a sugar-free version, you can up your morning coffee with this smooth creamer that warms from the inside out thanks to plenty of pumpkin notes.

Philadelphia Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

Why have plain cream cheese when you can have Philadelphia Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Spread!? Made with real pumpkin and cinnamon, this seasonal sweet has no artificial preservatives, flavors or dyes and makes the perfect addition to your morning bagel or toast. 

RXBAR Pumpkin Spice & RX Pumpkin Spice Peanut Butter

Starting Aug. 16, RXBAR Pumpkin Spice & RX Pumpkin Spice Peanut Butter are back and can't-miss products for the fall. Each bar comes with nine grams of protein C zero grams of added sugar and is gluten-free and Keto-friendly.

Joffrey's Not-So-Scary Pumpkin Brew Flavored Coffee

Can't make it to the Disney parks this fall? No problem! Joffrey's, the official specilaty coffee of the theme parks, is bring back its limited edition Not-So-Scary Pumpkin Brew Flavored Coffee. Each bag is artisan roasted with notes of pumpkin pie and vanilla.

You can purchase a one pound bag for $12.99 at joffreys.com.

Swiss Miss Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

Swiss Miss Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa means you won’t even have to wait that long to get a sip reminiscent of falling leaves and visits to the pumpkin patch. The mix is made from premium imported cocoa and pumpkin spice flavoring with no artificial sweeteners, flavors, preservatives or colors.

You can already find this special Swiss Miss at Target for the fall season.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Now you can have your cake and eat it, too––cheesecake, that is! The seasonal Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies from Pepperidge Farm are a delightful mix of cheesecake and cookie dough, all rolled into a soft-baked cookie. Good luck only eating just one!

siggis Pumpkin 6 Spice Yogurt

siggi's seasonal Pumpkin Spiced yogurt has returned! Each container contains 15g of protein and is so creamy you'll feel like you enjoying a dessert rather than a healthy breakfast or snack.

Bubbies Pumpkin Mochi Ice Cream

Bubbies

Perfectly portioned, Bubbies Pumpkin Mochi Ice Cream is a blend of warm, seasonal spices and surrounded by mochi dough. The cold treat is gluten free, non-GMO and only 90 calories.

Available at bubbiesicecream.com

Starbucks Fall Lineup

Starbucks fans will be happy to see not only tons of returning fall products to the home lineup of goods, but also a few pumpkin-related items, too! New to this year is Pumpkin Spice Flavored Non-Dairy Creamer and Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate

Simple Mills Almond Flour Pumpkin Muffin & Bread Mix

Simple Mills gluten-free pumpkin muffin and bread mix is delicious no matter what your dietary needs are. It's made with almond, coconut flour, naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and can be made into muffins or bread for the perfect fall treat.

Available at simplemills.com and at retailers nationwide.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of retailers

 

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Growing up in an Italian household I was taught to eat everything on my plate at a very young age. My mom made homemade meals everyday. In fact, all meals were always eaten at the table with my entire family, it was our family bonding time. My mom didn’t believe in restrictions; however, the only thing we were not able to eat was sugar. Sugar was a staple product in our pantry however it was only used for special occasions. 

I never believed in cutting sugar or food completely out of my diet. I enjoy food too much to enforce restrictions. In fact, the more I feel restricted the more I rebel and its the same when it comes to food. 

As a health coach, the first thing I teach my clients is to create a healthy lifestyle. That’s right, I said a lifestyle, not diet. I think what we need to do is stop telling ourselves that we are “going on a diet” but rather help ourselves understand the importance of creating a long last healthy relationship with food.

Secondly, I work with clients to understand how stress affects them. We are all affected by stress differently. I realized after all my hardships that I am an emotional eater and when under extreme amounts of stress, I seek comfort in food. Once I became aware that I was actually doing this I was able to change and develop tools to cope.

If you are an emotional eater, then you need to go within yourself and take time to become aware of and understand your triggers, only then you can learn how to control them. Once you do, you will be able to still enjoy your favorite treats in moderation. If you don’t feel you can do this on your own, work with a certified health coach could make a world of a difference.

The key is portion control, not restriction or elimination. It’s about eating foods that nourish your body—which in fact will help you crave less sugar. A craving towards sugar is your body telling you its missing something maybe you are lacking certain vitamins. From an emotional standpoint, we are searching for a quick fix, but often after we have it, we end up feeling guilty or not well.

Today I look at my meals in a mindful way, I called it mindful eating. Each person’s body is unique, we all react differently to foods and so our lifestyle should focus on eating foods that give us energy rather than take it away. Having excessive” amounts of sugar can cause negative effects on our bodies such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, cholesterol, allergies, tooth decay, and cardiovascular disease.

This is why it’s important to understand how sugar reacts in our bodies and become aware and mindful of eating foods that nourish and provide us energy in healthy ways.

Understanding the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates’ can go a long way in mindful eating. For instance, simple carbohydrates are digested and absorbed quickly and they provide a quick burst of energy followed by a crash.

Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, are sugars that take the body longer to breakdown and are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.  Some examples of complex carbohydrates are millet, quinoa, brown rice, and veggies. These are great because they do not spike your blood sugar levels quite so drastically as simple carbohydrates and help provide you the energy to sustain throughout the day.

Here are 3 quick tips for eating sugar in a healthier way:

1. Eat more fruits and vegetables containing natural sugar throughout the day this will help control your sugar cravings. Fruits that are naturally lower in sugar are raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, kiwi, grapefruit, watermelon, oranges, peaches, and cantaloupe.

2. Switch soda for filtered water—get a little crazy, add raspberries, lemon or any fruit if you desire this will help you boost your metabolism. Tip: Try drinking a cup of lemon water on an empty stomach in the morning help flush toxins and boost your metabolism.

3. Switch from processed sugar to natural sugars and use organic honey, organic maple syrup brown sugar or coconut sugar. If this change is too drastic, I recommend cutting down first, so if you use usually use two sugars then move to use only one at first to slowly ween yourself away from it. And you should stay away from any artificial sweeteners.

If you want a fun and easy way to explain sugar to your children considering purchasing my book called “Mommy, Can I Eat This?” I wrote it to help parents and children understand the importance of watching your daily intake of sugar. 

 

Maria Sofia’s life mission—inspired by her personal struggles with weight loss —is to educate parents and teachers on the importance of teaching nutrition to young children. Maria is a certified Health, Life and Trauma Coach. She is currently working toward her PhD in holistic health and lives in Toronto.

 

Whether you take your coffee black or pumpkin spiced, we can all agree that fueling up at a spot that welcomes kids puts the pep in our step as parents. We’ve got a list of San Diego’s best coffee shops for families that have turned brewing your perfect cup of joe into an art form. One shop on our list even offers a music, story and snack time for kids so you can get your fix while the littles have fun. Read on for where to order up your new favorite cup of joe.

Parakeet Cafe

Michael B. via Yelp

A little birdie told us to fly straight to Parakeet Cafe for delicious coffee and delectable eats, and we're so glad we did! The cheery space features vibrant, neon and hand-painted parakeet print wallpaper that will instantly bring a smile to your face. But that's just the beginning of all there is to chirp about. Parakeet Cafe's coffee drinks, comprised of ethically sourced beans, house-made syrups and alternative milks, pair beautifully with their healthy, creative menu. They believe "indulging in your health should be just that: indulgent. Every item on the menu is full of lush, organic ingredients, bright flavor, interesting textures and beautiful color."

We love the turmeric latte, an enticing blend of turmeric, ginger, vanilla, cardamom, honey and almond milk, paired with their cacao waffle served with coconut yogurt, organic fresh berries, banana, chia, cinnamon and coconut sugar. Additionally, you'll find something for everyone's taste from their extensive menu of savory and sweet breakfast and lunch items ranging from decadently topped toasts and robust salads to comforting soups and hearty breakfast entrees served all day. Their pastry case is straight out of heaven, with plenty of vegan and gluten free options to choose from.

Four locations:

3745 Paseo Pl. Suite 820
San Diego, CA 92130
858-345-1688

927 Silverado St.
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-412-5627

1680 India St.,
San Diego, CA 92101
619-255-1442

1134 Orange Ave.,
Coronado, CA 92118
619-675-0104
Online: parakeetcafe.com

Communal Coffee

Communal Coffee

Located in hip and trendy North Park, Communal Coffee offers coffee, flowers, gifts and a community-minded, inclusive atmosphere. A true coffee-junkie’s haven, this unique bean house proudly serves up San Francisco’s acclaimed Sight Glass Coffee as well as breakfast and lunch favorites. The onsite flower shop by Wyld Blooms will bring a little sunshine to your day. Snag a bouquet of wild blooms for home or snap a few photos for your Instagram feed. Because let’s face it: Coffee + Flowers = Instagram love. Check out Communal Kids by Seed & Song offering music, dance, stories, snacks and drinks for wee ones. Click here for info on Communal Kids events. Communal Coffee also has an outdoor location in South Park.

Insider’s Tip: We recommend the Lavender Honey Latte. For the littles, try the Iced Creamsicle drink.

2335 University Ave.
San Diego, CA 92104
619-363-7737

South Park:
2221 Fern St.
San Diego, CA 92104

Online: communalcoffee.com

Mostra Coffee

Andy B. via Yelp

The aptly named Mostra Coffee ('mostra' is Italian for show, exhibition, or performance) lives up to its name by offering innovative brewing experiences and flavors that elevate grabbing a cup of joe to an art form. Additionally, Mostra was just named 2020 Roaster of the Year by Roast Magazine. 

This elegant yet cozy neighborhood coffee shop features 'English Industiral' inspired design and has the first three-head, Mavam espresso machine in San Diego. The machine was built into a low bar-top so customers can witness the brewing process themselves. Mostra invites the community to warm up in their friendly, relaxing environment to make connections and enjoy great coffee. We love their impressive list of signature drinks including the Campfire Latte: oozing with flavors of mocha, graham cracker crumble and honey and the Bibingka Crème Brûlée Latte: inspired by a Filipino dessert, a Crème Brûlée Latte made with
coconut-infused whole milk, topped with coconut powder as well as their Choconana: house-made banana milk mixed with Brazil Cold Brew.

12045 Carmel Mountain Rd.
San Diego, CA 92128
858-304-0061
Online: mostracoffee.com

Cat & Craft Cafe

Jessica Z. via Yelp

For a truly unique coffee-going experience, add canoodling with cats to the mix! Cat & Craft is North County's first cat café, and it boasts “Purr-over” coffees from Manzanita Roasting Company alongside “Catprese” toast and Hazel & Jade pastries. You'll get to cuddle adoptable kitties from rescue organization Love Your Feral Felines during your visit. (Married owners Andrew and Caroline Vaught hope to rehome 500 cats in the café’s first year.) If you'd rather admire the kitties from a sneeze-free zone, a glass viewing wall separates the café and the cage-free cat lounge. Visit during Kiddie Cat Hour, where you can reserve a one-hour session to pet and play with the kitties.

3211 Business Park Dr.
Vista, CA  92081
760-295-1181
Online: catandcraftcafe.com

Caffe' Calabria

Michael B. via Yelp

That's amore! Italy meets San Diego at this charming coffee caffe' that serves up award-winning espresso, tea and Italian sodas. You can also come in at lunchtime to enjoy a panini or Neapolitan pizza (served Weds.-Sun. from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.) with your fave coffee drink. Additionally, Bread and Cie delivers fresh pastries daily as an added sweet touch to your fuel-up! An enticing ambiance and the aromas of coffee brewing and pizza baking? Sounds like heaven!

3933 30th St.
San Diego, CA 92104
619-683-7787
Online: caffecalabria.com

Hawthorn Coffee

Hawthorn Coffee

Hawthorn Coffee is as family-minded as a coffee house can get. Owned by a father/son duo, Kevin and Dylan, Dylan's young sons often frequent the shop. The clientele consists of many parents with kids as well as expecting parents. Kevin says, "Part of the reason why is that we believe in welcoming everyone, and that means everyone. Our philosophy is that kids can do no wrong, so we let them have the run of the shop. And since kids generally make noise, we let them do that, too. And that, in turn, makes parents very relaxed." In addition to this fantastic, inclusive atmosphere, Hawthorn Coffee means business when it comes to the perfect cup of joe. They serve Cat & Cloud of Santa Cruz, CA, Dapper&Wise Coffee Roasters of Beaverton, WA and Arcade Coffee Roasters of Riverside, CA, in their shop because of their "commitment to that sweet balance, blend, and consistency of deliciousness." Save us a seat!

3019 Adams Ave.
San Diego, CA
619-501-4882
Online: hawthorncoffee.com

Old California Coffee House & Eatery

Patrick D. via Yelp

Officially named the oldest coffee shop in San Marcos, Old California Coffee House & Eatery is a local favorite. This charming coffee shop features lots of well-loved sofas and chairs, an eclectic collection of instruments, funky décor and free WiFi. The fire pits on the patio are lit nightly to make for a cozy place to gather. Play games with the fam, listen to music, or simply chill. The coffee and food menu are expansive and reasonably priced. We recommend the Snickerdoodle specialty drink for the munchkins or the kid-at-heart. Don’t forget your four-legged furry friends. They are welcome on the patio!

1080 W. San Marcos Blvd. #176
San Marcos, CA 92078
760-744-2112
Online: oldcalcoffee.com

The King’s Craft Coffee Co.

Elizabeth Silva

Tucked away in east Poway, The King’s Craft Coffee (TKC), was founded by local dad and former defensive lineman for the San Diego Chargers, Cory Withrow. Poway’s first specialty coffee shop, these guys serve up single origin brews sourced from small holder organic farms. TKC features an outdoor seating area for kiddos to burn off some energy and plenty of seating for tired parents. In true Poway fashion, this coffee shop has a small town vibe that your whole “brewed” can get hip to. A portion of TKC’s sales are donated to non-profits and they've partnered with regional organizations like Rady’s Children’s Hospital and Poway Pop Warner. Grab your cup of java then head over to North County Soccer Park, where the pee wee league plays (ages 4-11) or spend the afternoon a short distance away at the scenic Old Poway Park.

14530 Espola Rd.
Poway, CA 92065
858-842-3717
Online: thekingscraft.com

Brew Coffee Spot

Janie H. via Yelp

In the heart of La Mesa, the family-owned Brew Coffee Spot has gained the attention of local families. This coffee house uses award-winning coffee beans that are 100% certified organic and responsibly sourced. And Brew Coffee Spot sees roasting beans as a science. Since coffee and tea are 98% water, they take their water purity very seriously. To ensure great tasting drinks, they use a configurable water system that delivers reverse osmosis and blended filtered water. Brew Coffee Spot offers a wide variety of food—including vegetarian and vegan options—a pretty extensive coffee and tea selection, and hello, free WiFi! Need we say more? Join in on the fun with family game night, a painting workshop, live music, or a fair trade jewelry show. We promise, Brew Coffee Spot will be your new fave.

6101 Lake Murray Blvd.
La Mesa, CA 91942
619-713-6698
Online: brewcoffeespot.com

Copa Vida

Vivian H. via Yelp

City dwellers take heart! Copa Vida, nestled in East Village, has it all: location, chill vibes, great coffee and tea and food. Whether you’re new to the coffee life or a caffeine connoisseur, Copa Vida’s take on coffee and tea is approachable and welcoming to all. Copa Vida offers hot and cold espresso pressure drinks—including single origin brews—an extensive tea list and breakfast, brunch and lunch. Copa Vida has an open concept with giant windows that open to the street. Perfect for people watching! And add to all that, Copa Vida is walking distance to Petco Park at the Park which offers a kid’s play area, little league field, picnic area and more. If the littles are up for it, end your day at the nearby San Diego Central Library, where you can join a guided tour.

Insider’s Tip: For parents on the go who can’t spare a moment waiting in line, Copa Vida offers a self-service honor bar until 10 a.m. on weekdays. Simply help yourself to a cup of java, leave some cash, and off you go!

905 J. St.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-501-7529
Online copa-vida.com

Nutmeg Bakery & Cafe

Nutmeg Bakery and Cafe

Two words: pastry case. But Nutmeg Bakery and Cafe also offers so much more. This artisan bakery serves up delicious coffee drinks and a mouthwatering breakfast, brunch and lunch made using sustainable, organic, local ingredients. Nutmeg is also a dream come true for those on alternative diets, as you'll find vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian and dairy-free menu items to enjoy––even from the pastry case. High chairs, a laid-back ambiance and an open floor plan make it easy to bring the kids along for your fix.

Nutmeg just opened a second location in Scripps Ranch as well!

12640 Sabre Springs Pkwy.
Ste. 107
San Diego, CA
858-486-8863

New Scripps Ranch location:
10755 Scripps Poway Pkwy.
Ste 107
San Diego, CA 92131

Online: nutmegsd.com

––Elizabeth Silva & Beth Shea

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It’s easy to find treats to celebrate Halloween, a little harder to persuade the kids to eat something healthy before they set off to trick-or-treat the neighborhood. That’s why we’ve rounded up creative and nutritious snacks that are just as tasty as the sweet stuff! Scroll on to discover bites that will be a hit with ghouls of all ages.

Halloween-Themed Sushi Balls

Chopstick Chronicles

How adorable are these Halloween-themed sushi balls from Chopstick Chronicles? They are fairly easy to make, and you can change up the ingredients according to your little monster's palate. Find out to make your own set here

Monster Sandwiches

My Own Road

What's a monster mash without monster sandwiches? This idea from My Own Road is an easy way to ensure that there's hearty food on your Halloween menu—you know, before the giant sugar rush. Plus, it's a cinch to customize these mini monster sandwiches with your fam's fave deli meat and fillings.

Halloween Cheese and Crackers

Peas and Crayons

Good news! Your Halloween cookie cutters can do double duty if you make these genius Halloween cheese and crackers. Use your kiddos' favorite cheese and have them help with the assembly. Learn more (and find other Halloween recipes!) over at Peas and Crayons.

Halloween Yogurt Bark

Fork & Beans

We love this healthy Halloween yogurt bark for oh-so-many reasons: it's a non-dairy snack, is full of fresh fruit, has no added sugar, and can be made in a snap. And then there's this: homemade googly eyes. Trust us, this is the Halloween snack (or breakfast) of champions. Get the recipe over at Fork & Beans.

Cheesy Graveyard Bones

Just a Taste

Pizza dough is the headliner for these cheesy breadstick bones from Kelly Senyei at Just A Taste. The recipe couldn't be easier—especially if you use store-bought dough. For more of a meal try these bone shaped sausage rolls from Tonya Staab. Complete the bone-shaking Halloween look with ketchup or marinara "blood" for dipping!

Spooky Apple Slices

Peas and Crayons

Need some help convincing your little ghouls that fruit is the real sweet treat of Halloween? Just get creative with apple slices! This idea is a snap to pull of, fiendishly clever, and healthy to boot! Learn how to make your own from Peas and Crayons.

Witchy Guacamole

Fork & Beans

Let's just say that this dip idea is downright magical. Kids will love that it's the perfect excuse to play with food—and you'll love that it's a super simple appetizer or snack. Bonus: use veggies to dunk instead of chips for an extra healthy kick. Get the recipe from Fork & Beans.

Frozen BOO-nana Ghosts

Erin Clarke of Well Plated

These ghost-shaped boo-nana popsicles are a fun treat the kids will love making as much as eating. Erin Clarke at Well Plated takes the healthy route and dips the banana shapes into vanilla yogurt rather than white chocolate--and you can turn these treats into mummies with a bit of peanut butter, caramel or nut butter and coconut sugar!

Hooting Owls

Foodlets

Not as spooky as ghosts and gravestones but whoooo can resist these delicious Halloween owls? Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on crackers and add sliced and whole almonds for this nocturnal nibble from Charity Mathews at Foodlets.

Fruity Candy Corn

Kitchen Fun with My Three Sons

The iconic Halloween candy corn gets a healthy makeover with the help of some appropriately colored fruit! Jill at Kitchen Fun with My Three Sons has the how-to using banana, cantaloupe and pineapple.

Spider Sandwiches

Foodlets

These pretzel-legged spiders from Charity Mathews at Foodlets will wriggle and jiggle and tickle your little one's insides! They are a cinch to make and sure to be gobbled up in no time. Sandwich the body with your kid's favorite filler, add legs and raisin eyes and you are all set for a spooky feast.

Pumpkin Clementines

Grounded

Orange you glad it's Halloween! These clementines disguised as pumpkins are the perfect healthy snack for little ones, peeled and ready to go. They are also super cute and decorative. No cooking's needed but you can find the how-to at Grounded.

Wicked Witch Fingers

Cook Nourish Bliss

Made from pizza dough with almonds as nails, these breadsticks from Cook Nourish Bliss are the perfect spooky finger-pointing snack for Halloween. The knobbly knuckles are cleverly made with a knot in the dough! (Psst! Cheese and carrots make good fingers too!). Add a suitably colored dip —tomato or pesto—and you're good to go.

Kooky Cut Outs

It's Always Autumn

Sliced cheese and Halloween cookie cutters—it really can't get easier than this. The little ones will grab at a platter of different bread or cheese shapes. Alternatively, add themed cheese slices to an open sandwich like this from It’s Always Autumn and serve with spider-web tomato soup.

The Walking Watermelon

Life Love & Hiccups

We are huge fans of this idea from Life Love & Hiccups, and it's about that time to say goodbye to our favorite summer fruit. Ask your zombies-in-training to lay out the fruity brains before this one hits the table!

Tombstone Toasty

Blush and Basil

Grilled cheese gets gruesome with this Halloween makeover from Brittney at Blush and Basil. As easy as it is tasty, just add RIP in ketchup and serve with tomato soup. It's a dead cert the kids will love it.

Cheesy Broomstick Bites

Foodlets

Send those little taste buds flying with these crafty broomstick bites. Making them couldn't be easier—get tips from Charity at Foodlets. Keep it light with fat-free string cheese, or tie in some matchstick carrots for a spellbinding boost of energy before your tiny monsters get swept away in the fun.

Apple Monsters

Grounded

Here's a tasty bite for the little monsters in your life! You'll need six ingredients to create these scary looking critters with their frozen yogurt and mini chocolate chip eyes, apple mouths and jagged almond teeth. A monster never tasted so good! Get the instructions from nutrition coach Emily Fitzgerald at Grounded. 

Carrot Rice Jack O’Lantern

Tara's Multicultural Table

These rice ball Jack O'Lanterns, courtesy of Tara's Multicultural Table, are super healthy and easy to prepare. Carrot juice colors the rice and sheets of nori provide the scary faces. Adapted from a version at Apron Strings, you can make these rice balls big or small and serve 'em as snacks or sides for your hungry hoard.

Spook-tacular Spider Eggs

Weelicious

We've got your new favorite deviled egg recipe, thanks to Weelicious! This idea is a fun way to turn creepy crawlies into delicious eats that are packed with protein. It's the perfect last-minute addition to a Halloween potluck!

Freaky Potato Fries

Cheeky Kitchen via Tablespoon

We know that the sweet tooth comes out with the full moon, so we have something for your wee howlers. Sweet potatoes, pumpkin spice, and fun shapes, oh my! Head on over to Cheeky Kitchen via Tablespoon for the know-how.

— Abigail Matsumoto & Emily Meyers & Stacy Liu
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Even though these days you’re more likely to find yourself at a Music Together session instead of a jam session, don’t say goodbye to the days of summer music extravaganzas. To make it easier to find your happy place, we’ve rounded up the most awesome festivals that don’t just let kids in—they welcome them with open arms. Scroll down to see when and where.

Summerfest: June 26-30 & July 2-7, Milwaukee, Wi

Summerfest

It’s like a rock & roll day camp for the whole family. The coolest part about the world’s largest music festival isn’t just about singing your heart out at diverse musical acts like Billie Eilish, Death Cab for Cutie, Willie Nelson and more,  but also a chance to experience kiddie-rock performances, live theater, water fun with splash pads and paddle boats, fireworks, robot building and even a bacon eating contest!

Parents, you’ll need to head to the Northwestern Mutual Children's Theater and Playzone featuring not only jungle gyms and slides, but that’s where you’ll spot the children’s theater and interactive activities. From the Captivation Station and color labs to Comedy Sportz, the Milwaukee Art Museum and even spatula sizzles at the Mad Scientist lab—it’s an exciting extravaganza!

Don't miss the Summerfest Parade: Wed., June 26–Fri., June 28; Tues., July 2 & Wed., July 2 at 3 p.m.

Online: summerfest.com

High Sierra Music Festival: July 4-7, Quincy, CA

The ultimate in jam-band festivals, High Sierra is like a big warm hug for families. The Family Village scene is always hoppin’, from the Living Folklore puppet shows, family breakfasts and water games to the family talent show, shady chill zone for breastfeeding mothers, and the High Sierra KIDS parade. The Village Greens is always open for play, play and more play, and the Sing Along hut is perfect for...you guessed it, sing-alongs. There’s even the Rockin’ Nannies group of qualified caregivers who host a sleepover each night for parents wanting a little late night music action.

You can pack in food to the festival but be sure to sample the wide array of food trucks, gourmet eats and microbrews that will be available throughout the festival days.

Insider Tip: Head for Shady Grove campground; that’s where you’ll find quiet spots for camping.

Lollapalooza: Aug. 1-4, Chicago, IL

Katrina Barber/Lollapalooza 2018

Lollapalooza's lineup this summer is packed with diverse acts, from Twenty One Pilots to Ariana Grande. Kidzapalooza, which is its own kiddie concert event within the rock festival and located in a separate area of Grant Park.

The family-fest within a fest includes a stellar line up of kindie-rock groups, plus there’s music stations with drums and guitars, breakdancers, a mural wall for painting and tons of amazing Chicago-style food.

Insider Tip: You can take turns watching the main stage and the kid-stage. Kidzapalooza is open each day from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., kids 10 and under are free!

Online: Lollapalooza.com

Pickathon Independent Music Festival: Aug. 2-4, Happy Valley, OR

iStock

If you’re looking for a chance to give your tiny ones a lesson in sustainability while enjoying groovy bluegrass tunes, the Pickathon is where you need to be. No plastic to be found; bring in your own utensils or participate in an exchange program when sampling the organic fare.

Pitch a tent at the family camping zone, where lights are out early and it’s up and at em’ at the crack of dawn. The constant flow of activities for kids is pretty unreal. From basket making to foam arrow target shooting, circus camp, fairy wand making and the grand dragon parade, there’s something for everyone. Even the tiny tots can get in on the fun with their very own movement and games.

Outside Lands: Aug. 9-11, San Francisco, CA

It's the Bay Area’s most epic music event and this year's headliners include Twenty One Pilots, Paul Simon and KC Musgraves. If the fam is looking for a quiet place to chill, head for less crowded spots early on. The picnic tables just past the windmill at the Lands End Stage, or up on the hill next to the Sutro Stage are best bets.

The gourmet grub at Outside Lands is legendary but no worries—even the pickiest eater will find nosh. There’s fancy grilled cheese, pizza, satay and chicken and waffles for the kids; and parents can savor kale salad, smoked-coconut sugar brisket and Maine lobster rolls.

Direct the crew towards Eco Lands and head straight for the Rock & Roll Family Zone, where taking a moment to chill is encouraged! Feed worms at the Garden for the Environment booth, contribute to the Solar Habitat Microbuild at the AT&T sponsored booth, and find the Surf for Life and Urban Sprouts Photo Booths for post-worthy shots.

Online: OutsideLands.com

Bumbershoot: Aug. 30-Sep. 2, Seattle, WA

iStock

Seattle’s long-running Bumbershoot was a celebration way back before music festivals were on everyone’s summer bucket list. Held every year over Labor Day Weekend, you'll find big name headliners along side budding new acts. Besides the diverse lineup, attendees can find cool dance performances, visual arts, film and comedy.

Families with kids 10 and under can head straight for Youngershoot. Curated by the Seattle Children’s Museum, the list of activities for tiny rockers is endless. While there isn’t any child-care available, we know parents will enjoy themselves as much as budding musicians. The intro to architecture—inspired by Seattle’s famous skyline—is an especially popular station.

Insider Tip: The complete list of fun at Youngershoot hasn’t been announced yet. Check back here to get updates before the show starts in Sept.

Online: bumbershoot.com

Pilgrimage Music Festival: Sep. 21-23, Franklin, TN

VisitFranklin.com

Franklin, Tennessee is a beautiful little hamlet outside of Nashville and once a year it goes off the hook with this family-friendly all-star lineup of music from across genres. Held at the beautiful Harlinsdale Farm, fans young and old can enjoy this two-day festival that also attracts some of the best food in the region along with art and artisans. This year's lineup includes the Foo Fighters, Keith Urban, The Killers, Leon Bridges and more. Kiddos will love the Art Barn and the kid-specific stage (the Vanderbilt Health Lil' Pilgrims Family Stage) and Mare Barn Theater where they'll find activities and performances geared toward the pint-sized set.  

Learn more at visitfranklin.com and pilgrimagefestival.com

 

Austin City Limits: Oct. 4-6 & 11-13, Austin, TX

Sara Marjorie Strick/ACL 2018

If your dreams of attending SXSW have been waylaid by bringing kids along, don't fret. Turns out, Austin is home to another major music festival and this one is as kid-friendly as they come. The Austin City Limits music festival takes place over two different weekends and the lineup includes the stellar, the up-and-coming and indie stars. This year you'll find Billie Eilish, Mumford & Sons, Thom Yorke (of Radiohead) and The Cure, among others.

The littles will make a beeline for Austin Kiddie Limits. This mini-version offers up a ton of awesome entertainment for budding musicians, including a drum zone, hip hop workshops, hands-on art and more. There's also necessities like baby changing stations and a family-friendly entrance. 

Insider Tip: Kids 10 and under are free. Look for the Kidz Beach Area to beat the heat. It’s a shady spot perfect for making sand castles while listening to your favorite acts.

Online: aclfestival.com

Joshua Tree Music Festival: Oct. 10-13, Joshua Tree, CA

If you don’t feel like taking petite burners to the playa this year, consider another desert music-fest promoting community vibes and art. The Joshua Tree Musical Festival is super family oriented and besides the amazing scenery, there’s cosmic creations, painting parasols, puppet making and improv.

Within the festival grounds, the one acre lake is surrounded by Kidsville, the world market and organic food purveyors. The best spot to pitch a tent is in Family Camp on the North West side of the campground, but if you want to be out of the wind and dirt, there are trailers for rent, too. Kids 10 and under are free and be prepared for lots and lots of hula hoopers!

Insider Tip: You and the littles can beat the desert heat (and dust) with shade cloths that are draped over viewing areas and a quick visit to the free cool down shower stations.

Online: joshuatreemusicfestival.com

— Amber Guetebier & Gabby Cullen

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As they say, food made with love tastes better. This could not be any truer than at Aina, the newly opened family-friendly Hawaiian brunch spot in San Francisco’s hip Dogpatch neighborhood. Read on to see why brunching at Aina is like visiting a good friend on the islands, all without having to get on a plane with stroller and diaper bag in tow, let alone having to leave the 415. Trust us, your tummy—and soul—will thank you.

Photo: Aina

Aina, which in Hawaiian means “the land which feeds us,” is where you and your little ones will indulge in Aina’s feel-good eats, from their modern take on Hawaiian fare, such as homemade spam musubi, chicken katsu, taro french toast, or their decadent Portuguese-style doughnuts, known as malasadas. Even more impressive is how the folks at Aina make you feel, with each member of their staff welcoming you and your family with their attentive service and hospitality.

A Tropical Treat In The Dogpatch
Hugging the corner spot in the heart of San Francisco’s Dogpatch quiet residential neighborhood on 22nd Street, near 3rd, is where you’ll find Aina. Neighboring boutiques and cafes are mere steps away, and just across the street is also the Woods Yard Park, a great place for crawlers and toddlers. As soon as you walk in, you’ll be enveloped with island vibes and good eats. You will first be greeted by very warm and friendly staff, and then the yumminess begins.

Eat Like an Islander
Gone are plates of traditional brunch combos like bacon, eggs, and pancakes. Instead you and your family will dive into plates of Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. For something savory, try their Spam Musubi “Ssam Style,” a modern twist with Stone Valley Farms whole hog homemade spam, or their take on Kalbi Loco Moco, with slow braised kalbi short rib and sunny side eggs, or their – say no more – Kalua Pork Belly dish. For the kiddies, they will enjoy Aina’s Kids Bento dish, a cute ‘lil box with compartments of scrambled eggs, chicken katsu over rice, Portuguese sweet rolls, and seasonal fruit.


Photo: Aina

Sweets for the whole family include their Taro French Toast, using bread from Hawaii’s Punalu’u Bake Shop with macadamia nut crumble and coconut caramel. And save room for their signature malasadas, a Portuguese-style doughnut of goodness oozing with guava custard, and covered with coconut sugar.

Photo: Aina

Scoring a Seat
Brunching at Aina is a treat, so word to the wise: reservations are necessary! As a small neighborhood restaurant, Aina recommends making reservations two weeks in advance, especially for the weekends. For you stay-at-home moms and dads, you’re in luck as weekdays are a bit easier to snag a table without resos. However, if you do need a high chair or booster, Aina does recommend placing a reservation for these requests.

Make a Day-Cation Out of It
When you’re done at Aina, explore the other parts of this 22nd Street stretch of the Dogpatch. From the kiddie park across the way, to all the neighboring shops, boutiques – and if you still have room – cafes that are all walking distance to Aina, make a day out of it. Aina in San Francisco’s Dogpatch is the new must-brunch for you and your family. You’ll thank us. Better yet, just say Mahalo.

Good to Know: Parking around Dogpatch can be tricky, as it’s street parking only. Remember patience is a virtue, and good example for your kiddies.

Aina
900 22nd Street
San Francisco, CA
415-814-3815
Online: http://www.ainasf.com

Brunch Only
Wed.–Fri. 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Sat.–Sun. 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Where’s your favorite spot in the Bay Area to get a taste of Hawaii?

–Yannina Pacis

Bring a bit of tropical summer into your holiday dessert this year with FoodNetwork.com’s Chocolate Dipped Pineapple-Coconut Macaroons. With the mix between homemade pineapple jam and bittersweet chocolate these delectable bites are sweet, tart, chocolatey and chewy. Bonus: they’re gluten-free.

Yield: 2 dozen macaroons
Total Time: 1 hr 15 min
Prep: 10 min
Inactive: 20 min
Cook: 45 min

Ingredients:

Pineapple Filling:
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (about 12 ounces)
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)

Macaroons:
Nonstick cooking spray
3 large egg whites
One 14-ounce bag sweetened and shredded coconut
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fine salt
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Method:
1. For the pineapple filling: Puree the pineapple in a food processor and transfer to a medium skillet along with the sugar and 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium-low and bring to a low simmer. Use a rubber spatula to stir and move the mixture around as it reduces and thickens to the consistency of very thick jam, 18 to 20 minutes (you should have about a heaping 1/2 cup). Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let cool completely in the skillet. The pineapple filling can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance.

2. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment and coat lightly with nonstick spray.

3. For the macaroons: Whisk the egg whites in a large bowl until frothy. Toss the coconut, sugar, vanilla and 1/4 teaspoon salt together with your hands in another large bowl. Add the coconut mixture to the egg whites and combine with your hands; the mixture should pack together tightly when squeezed. Divide the mixture into 24 slightly heaping tablespoons and roll each into a smooth ball (slightly wet hands can help with rolling). Hold a ball in the palm of your hand and use your thumb to make a slight indentation in the middle. Reshape the edges of the macaroon back into a round if it cracks. Arrange about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, rotating the tray as needed for even browning, 20 to 24 minutes. Let cool completely on the tray.

4. Set up a cooling rack over a baking sheet. Combine the chocolate and butter in a small bowl and microwave for 30 seconds; stir. Repeat until all of the chocolate is melted and smooth. Dip the bottom of each macaroon into the chocolate and press into the chocolate about halfway up the macaroon. Use a fork to help lift it out of the chocolate. Transfer to the cooling rack and allow to sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens and sets up, about 20 minutes.

5. Fill each macaroon with about 1 teaspoon of the pineapple filling. Store and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Will you make these macaroons this holiday season?

FOOD NETWORK (www.foodnetwork.com) is a unique lifestyle network, website and magazine that connects viewers to the power and joy of food. The network strives to be viewers’ best friend in food and is committed to leading by teaching, inspiring, empowering and entertaining through its talent and expertise. Food Network is distributed to more than 100 million U.S. households and up to 35 million unique web users monthly. Since launching in 2009, Food Network Magazine’s rate base has grown tenfold and is now the second largest monthly magazine on the newsstand, with over 11.6 million readers.