Wait until you see the chocolate fondue board

Move over salami and cheese, there’s a new charcuterie board in town: the dessert charcuterie board! Packed with cookies, chocolate, candy, and more, this sweet treat ups your dessert game in a big way. Wondering how to make a dessert charcuterie platter? Check out our tips on how to get one just right for Halloween.

One of Everything Board

If you can’t decide on a theme for your dessert board, then… don’t! Pick your favorite sweet treats and present them all to your guests.

Your Favorite Sports Team Dessert Charcuterie Board

While this particular board is all about the Buffalo Bills, you can fashion your own using themed treats and colors to make it personal. There’s no end to possibilities: NHL, MLB, MLS—you can go all out all year long.

Chocolate Charcuterie Board

chocolate dessert charcuterie with stawberries
Modern Honey

Chocoholics unite! This cocoa-inspired dessert board is one for the senses. The rich colors make it a great holiday option, or even for a mom's night out.

Get all the details at Modern Honey.

Movie Night

movie night dessert charcuterie board with popcorn
Simply Made Recipes

Movie night just got a whole lot better. This film-themed board brings your fave cinema treats to your fingertips, with options like popcorn, licorice, and gummy bears, all you have to do is press "play."

Head to Simply Made Recipes to get all the inspiration.

Chocolate Fondue Board

valentines's day dessert charcuterie
The BakerMama

Cookies, rice krispie treats, fruit—oh, my! This chocolate fondue board is full of ooey-gooey deliciousness that is just as fun to eat as it is to put together.

Check out The BakerMama to get the recipe.

Dainty Donut Board

Muted-colored food never looked so gorgeous. This baby shower-worthy dessert board has meringues, donuts, chocolate, and fruit—the perfect combo you want in a jaw-dropping spread.

Get inspired by following The Manchester Platter Company.

Related: 12 Amazing Toddler Charcuterie Boards You’ll Want for Yourself

Rainbow Charcuterie Board

rainbow dessert charcuterie board
Jenny Cookies

You can truly taste the rainbow with this colorful dessert charcuterie board. Sweet circular cookies are paired with coordinating sprinkles and candy for an eye-popping dessert you can't resist. 

Head over to Jenny Cookies for all the details.

Ice Cream Sundae Board

ice cream dessert charcuterie
The Baker Mama

Why have we never thought of this? Prep for a sweet sundae board by stocking it up with ice cream and all the toppings you can dream of.

Head to The Baker Mama to see all the details.

Easter Dessert Board

Hop on into spring with this sweet board packed with bunny-themed treats. Whether you create this for Easter Sunday or for a class party, everyone will want a little bit of this spread.

Valentine's Day Grazing Board

valentine's day dessert charcuterie
Domestikated Life

Who needs a fancy dinner when you can dig into this Valentine's Day Grazing board? Packed with salty and sweet treats, the colorful candies tie in the holiday of love perfectly.

Head to Domestikated Life for all the details.

Birthday Dessert Board

birthday dessert charcuterie
The BakerMama

Goodbye, birthday cake. Hello, birthday dessert charcuterie! Everyone at your party will find something to love with this diverse spread. Pack with the best treats that birthdays have to offer, from cookies and cupcakes to donuts and chocolate-dipped fruit (with sprinkles, of course!).

Check out The BakerMama for easy instructions.

Sweetheart Dessert Board

valentine's day dessert charcuterie
A Pumpkin & A Princess

This dessert charcuterie board is the perfect way to say "I love you." Pack with your fave cookies, and chocolate fruit—and don't forget those conversation hearts!

Head to A Pumpkin & A Princess for all the instructions.

St. Patrick’s Day Dessert Board

With a little luck, you can pull this together in no time. We especially love the candy kebobs and the Lucky Charms on the side!

Related: Cue the Candles: Birthday Charcuterie Boards Are the New Cake

S'mores Charcuterie Board

s'mores dessert charcuterie
Aubrey Swan Blog

This board will have you wanting s'more and s'more! Load up with all the fixin's then head out for a warm summer night around the fire.

Be sure to check out Aubrey Swan Blog for all the instructions.

Armenian New Year’s Dessert Board

Celebrate the New Year with lots of sweet and savory foods found in this Armenian dessert board. There’s something for everyone, including baklava, gata, Greek koorabia, Bird’s milk cake, fruits and nuts.

 

 

Oh, hello hamburger charcuterie board

Ready to amp up your summer soiree? Say hello to the charcuterie board! From dessert and holiday platters to the ever-popular birthday board, these varietal trays make mealtime fun. We’ve rounded up some of the best summer charcuterie board ideas, like a hamburger board, summer fruit platter, and of course, a s’mores board. Keep scrolling!

Simple Summer Charcuterie Board

Diary of a Debutante

Kick the summer off with this simple charcuterie board. It boasts a gorgeous color palette, and easy-to-find ingredients and is the perfect way to embrace the laid-back vibes of the season.

Get the full details at Diary of a Debutante.

Summer Stone Fruit Cheese Platter

summer charcuterie board
Fork in the Road

Summer fruit is featured in all its glory in this stunning board! Grab all the peaches, nectarines, and cherries you can find to arrange with sides like honey and cheese.

Make sure you check out Fork in the Road for even more info!

Summer Grazing Board

summer charcuterie board
Pizzazzerie

There's a little bit of everything on this board. Perfect for backyard gatherings in between meals, pile this charcuterie array with meats, nuts, fruit, and spreads to keep everyone happy until it's BBQ time.

Check out Pizzazzerie for all the instructions.

Grilled Steak Charcuterie

Beautiful Eats & Things

Grab a napkin because this steak charcuterie board is mouth-watering! This BBQ-based platter is easily customizable, packed with steak and your fave veggies.

Head to Beautiful Eats & Things for all the details.

Hot Dog Charcuterie Board

hot dog charcuterie board
Miss in the Kitchen

Dinner is served! This haute hot dog board is going to be the hit at all your backyard BBQs this summer. Cook up some dogs and pack in the toppings!

Check out Miss in the Kitchen to see all the instructions.

Grilled Charcuterie Board with Mini Skewers

skewer charcuterie board
Whitney Bond

A little more on the fancy side, this grilled skewer board still equals charcuterie fun. Toss some kabobs on the barbie then prep some savory sauces for the ultimate meal.

Check out Whitney Bond for the recipes.

Summer Hamburger Board

The Reluctant Entertainer

Step aside hamburger bar—there's a new charcuterie board in town. This enormous hamburger board boasts plenty of toppings and sides to make the most epic and fun dinner.

Head to The Reluctant Entertainer for all the ways to make your own,

Ice Cream Sundae Board

ice cream dessert charcuterie
The Baker Mama

Why have we never thought of this? Prep for a sweet sundae board by stocking it up with ice cream and all the toppings you can dream of.

Head to The Baker Mama to see all the details.

Movie Night

movie night dessert charcuterie board with popcorn
Simply Made Recipes

Movie night just got a whole lot better. This film-themed board brings your fave cinema treats to your fingertips, with options like popcorn, licorice and gummy bears, all you have to do is press "play."

Head to Simply Made Recipes to get all the inspiration.

S'mores Charcuterie Board

s'mores dessert charcuterie
Aubrey Swan Blog

This board will have you wanting s'more and s'more! Load up with all the fixings, then head out for a warm summer night around the fire.

Be sure to check out Aubrey Swan Blog for all the instructions.

Patriotic Charcuterie Board

Whether it’s for Memorial Day or the 4th of July, this fun red, white, and blue charcuterie board will give you plenty of ideas for a festive displays.

Show your grandparents how much they mean to you by treating them to one (or all) of these exciting events in Chicago

Is there anything more special than a grandparent? We’re giving that an emphatic no! And is there anything more exciting than experiencing the city with grandparents? With so many accessible, exciting things to do in Chicago, there are plenty of ways to celebrate a visit from such a beloved relative. Spend precious time with your loved ones and make special memories with these attractions, perfect for all generations.

Comb the Orchards for Apples

It's hard to believe, but apple picking season has arrived. Get the grandparents in on the sweet fun by visiting one of Chicagoland's u-pick apple orchards. Be sure to leave time to have chats over an apple cider donut. We recommend a visit to County Line Orchard. Only 45 miles from the city, it's a far easier commute than many farms hours away. Plus, at County Line, you can experience apple picking, train rides, a corn maze, and a kid's farm. Everyone will have a blast!

200 S. County Line Rd.
Hobart, IN
Online: www.countylineorchard.com

Related: 11 Tips for Grandparents Traveling with Grandkids

Plan a Day Built on Fun at the Morton Arboretum

Sculpture enthusiasts of every age will be dazzled as they search for eight larger-than-life, nature-inspired sculptures throughout the Arboretum's exhibit Human + Nature. Use this map from Morton Arboretum to help you on your hunt and to learn about their names. Be sure to stop by the Children's Garden where kids splash, dig, and play in a kid-safe environment.

4100 Illinois Route 53
Lisle, IL
Online: mortonarb.org

Related: A Heartfelt Salute to Parents from Grandparents

Geek Out on Architecture

grandparents day
Chicago Architecture Center

It might sound completely touristy, but the 90-minute Architectural Boat Tour is by far one of the best activities for visitors to Chicago. All while cruising the Chicago River, attendees can learn the fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings and discover how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities, as told by an expertly trained volunteer docent. If you can hang, we recommend taking one of the tours that will be cruising when the sun sets—it makes the ride extra magical. 

112 E. Wacker Dr.
Chicago, IL
Online: architecture.org

Put Those Pinkies Up for Tea Party

Sincerely Media on Unsplash

Grandparents deserve white glove service! So, make a reservation for Afternoon Tea at Palm Court in the Drake Hotel. Experience delicious tea, finger sandwiches, cakes, and scones. You and the kiddos will feel like royalty, especially if you book a Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea.

140 E. Walton Place
Chicago, IL
Online: thedrakehotel.com

Related: Easy Ways to Stay Connected to Grandparents from a Distance

Take Them to a Show They'll Never Forget

You just can't miss a chance to see a Broadway in Chicago show. You just can't. So, bring Grandma and Grandpa along for a musical theater experience they'll never forget. Anastasia runs Sep. 20-25 and Wicked runs Sep. 28-Dec. 4. 

17 N. State St. Ste. 810
Chicago, IL
Online: broadwayinchicago.com

Spend a Family Sunday with the Sox

White Sox

Got a south-side baseball lover in the mix? Catch the White Sox play the Tigers at the last Family Sunday Baseball Game of the season, on Sep. 25. The ballpark experience will feature special kid-focused activities and it's guaranteed that you'll have a great time!

333 W. 35th St.
Chicago, IL
Online: mlb.com

Related: The Best Movies to Watch with Grandparents

Have Big Top Fun in the Park 

grandparents day
Midnight Circus in the Parks

Chicago’s offbeat and totally entertaining circus, Midnight Circus in the Parks, takes its act on the road, performing in parks in all corners of the city. It’s all for a good cause, too: The tour raises money to improve the city's many public parks and playgrounds.

1140 W. 84th St.
Chicago, IL
Online: midnightcircus.net

Visit an Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor

Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Is there anything better than ice cream?! Take your grandparent to Homer's Gourmet Ice Cream for a delicious treat and special experience at an old-fashioned ice cream parlor. Apparently, Homer's was a favorite of Al Capone!

1237 Green Bay Rd.
Wilmette, IL
Online: homersicecream.com

See the Flourish Exhibit at Chicago Botanic Garden

Experience the delightful sights of huge sculptures that show the connection between art and nature at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Flourish: The Garden. The exhibit features 10 amazing structures created by different artists from Chicago and around the world. The exhibit closes Sep. 25.

1000 Lake Cook Rd.
Glencoe, IL
Online: chicagobotanic.org

Related: 10 Lessons I Learned from My Grandparents

Check Out the Scaumburg Park District

grandparents day
iStock

The Schaumburg Park District is full of great family-friendly events that would be perfect for the grandparents to join in on throughout the fall season. Enjoy a movie in the park on Sep. 16 or Octoberfest on Oct. 8. You'll find the events listed on page 6 of the Fall Program Guide

505 N. Springinsguth Rd.
Schaumburg, IL
Online: parkfun.com

Cruise with Grandma's Pup

Mercury Canine Cruise Chicago

Dogs on boats? Yes! If Grandma has a pooch, bring it along on Mercury's Canine Cruise for quality time cruising on Chicago's waterways. Sit back, relax, and soak in the city as you enjoy a lively narration of Chicago’s rich history and architectural marvels with dog-friendly highlights.

112 E. Wacker Dr.
Chicago, IL
Online: mercurycruises.com

 

 

You can vacation in some pretty sweet homes thanks to Airbnb, but it will be hard to top this booking. Now you can stay in the real life Home Alone house and let your inner child run wild! The overnight stay is up for grabs on Dec. 12 to celebrate the release of the latest movie in the popular franchise.

The McAllisters are headed on their holiday trip and that means four guests have the opportunity to enjoy the stay of a lifetime in Chicago. The home will be perfectly decorated for Christmas and feature plenty of booby trap opportunities. You’ll get to meet the pet tarantula and enjoy plenty of pizza and Kraft Mac n Cheese. At the end of the stay, you’ll get to take home the new LEGO Home Alone set for the perfect souvenir!

Now for the best part: all of this is only $25 if you’re lucky enough to book. Set your reminder for 2 p.m. ET on Dec. 7 and make sure you’re on http://airbnb.com/homealone. The  guests who book are responsible for their own travel, but it’s a small price to pay for these bragging rights.

If you don’t get to claim this trip, Airbnb has plenty of other great options to make your next trip extra special. But if you’re really ready to channel your inner Kevin McAllister, you can also reserve a special package at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, giant sundae and limo ride included!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Sarah Crowley

 

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On the first day of December ALDI brought to me…tons of great finds! We have the inside scoop on what to expect at your local ALDI for the ultimate holiday month. Including a premade charcuterie board kit and gingerbread mulled wine!

Starting Dec. 1, you’ll be able to snag Three Mills Gingerbread Mulled Wine for only $5. You’ll also find some gems in the baking department: Mama Cozzi’s Pizza Kitchen Holiday Tree or Star Pizza ($2.50), Baker’s Corner Jumbo Christmas Cookie Kit ($5) and Elf on the Shelf Baking Kits ($3.50). Don’t forget the Nestle Morsels in Peppermint Hot Cocoa and Funfetti Flavors!

Later on, look for Sundae Shoppe Snowflake Cones, a raspberry and cream flavored treat with chocolate coating and sugar sprinkles ($3.50 on Dec. 8). Grab some cute Gouda Trees the same weekend that are perfect for your holiday boards ($4). And speaking of charcuterie, don’t forget the Specially Selected Charcuterie Board Kit ($10) that’s available on Dec. 15 and makes your board prep a snap.

Finally, we’re super excited about the Sparkling Wine calendar that counts down to the New Year. You’ll have seven bottles to open and it’s available for $30 on Dec. 1. Don’t forget ALDI’s version of the Grouch Tree! At $8 each, you’ll want to buy a few when they release on Dec. 8. ‘Tis the season for shopping merriment at ALDI!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of ALDI

 

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“Here we are, Marv. New York City. The land of opportunity!” ‘Tis the season for Christmas classics, including Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. And if you really want to make the season memorable, you can book a special package through The Plaza Hotel that lets the whole family recreate your favorite movie moments.

Your exclusive stay starts with checking into a luxurious guest room, followed by a private four hour limo ride around New York City. You’ll be treated to a hot cheese pizza and visit all the top sites as you relive Kevin McAllister’s tour. Along the way you’ll see the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Radio City Music Hall and much more!

Once you’re back at the hotel, it’s time to enjoy a giant Home Alone sundae. It’s 16 scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&Ms, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel and raspberry sauce. It’s definitely Kevin approved, just grab a few extra spoons!

You can purchase the “Escape to New York” offer year-round and the hotel website states that you can book up to three days prior to check-in. Blackout dates apply and rates vary depending on room type. If you’re going to the Big Apple, might as well do it big!

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of The Plaza Hotel

 

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It’s National S’mores Day! And we’re happy to report, you can celebrate with the kids, even if you’re not around the campfire in the middle of the forest We’ve got what you need to track down deliciously creative versions of this ooey-gooey treat right here in the city. From s’mores donuts to a molten cake, here’s where to get your s’mores fix today.

Zuri's Donutz

Zuri's Donutz via Instagram

When it comes to donuts as an art form, the folks at Zuri’s Donutz are master artists. Bite into their indulgent Trojan Smorez to taste your favorite campfire flavors (including a torched marshmallow) when your s’mores cravings hit. Wondering about its name? Well it’s totally gluten-free.

Hours: Thurs., 5-10 a.m., Fri.-Sun., 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

7600 196th St. S.W., #850
Lynnwood, WA
425-582-8803
Online: facebook.com/zurisdonutz

KJ’s Cakery Bakery Sweet Shop

KJ’s Cakery Bakery Sweet Shop via Instagram

There’s nothing low cal about the many sweets you’ll find at this south end bake shop. And there’s no limit to the creativity either. For a twist on the typical try a S’mores Thickums, a totally loaded cookie that’s soft on the inside and crisp on the outside. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with a S’mores Sammie—graham cracker buttercream sandwiched between two chocolate marshmallow cookies, rolled in graham cracker crust. Gotta love these kinds of touch choices.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11:20 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Sun. & Mon.

204 Central Ave. N., #101
Kent, WA
253-277-2516
Online: kjscakerybakery.com

New York Cupcakes

New York Cupcakes via Instagram

You may only be able to get this specialty cupcake on Saturdays, but trust us, it’s worth the wait. Baked with only homemade ingredients, New York Cupcakes’ Campfire S’mores includes a graham cracker crust, chocolate ganache-filled chocolate cake and a rim of marshmallow buttercream filled with toasted marshmallow meringue. We'll take two!

Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

15600 N.E. 8th St.
Bellevue, WA
425-283-5445
Online: newyorkcupcakes.com

Hot Cakes

Bobby B. via yelp

If you like your s’mores served hot, you’re in luck! Hot Cakes’ S’mores molten cake is an individual chocolate cake topped with a roasted marshmallow. The ice cream and chocolate sauce are served on the side so your steaming hot cake doesn’t get soggy. Families can order this in gluten- and dairy-free options too, so everyone can enjoy.

Hours: Vary by location

Ballard
5427 Ballard Ave. N.W.
Seattle, WA
206-453-3792

Capitol Hill
1650 E. Olive Way
Seattle, WA
206-258-2591

Online: getyourhotcakes.com

Lady Yum

Mad M. via yelp

For a lighter take on the s’mores experience pick up a pack of Lady Yum’s S’mores macarons. Unlike most of Lady Yum macarons, the s’mores flavor contains gluten, but don’t let that stop you from biting into this flavorful cookie that’s just the right size. Our favorite part? The marshmallow hidden inside.

Locations in Seattle, Bellevue and Kirkland

866-499-1977
Online: ladyyum.com

Shug’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream

Ryan D. via yelp

The fact that they torch the homemade marshmallows after they put them on the top makes this ice cream sundae extra gooey. Celebrate National S’mores Day with Shug’s original S’more Sundae. It’s a hard-to-beat treat on a summer day. Our suggestion? Grab spoons to share!

Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 1-8 p.m.

Pike Place Market
1525 1st Ave.
Seattle, WA
206-602-6420
Online: shugssodafountain.com

Hello Robin

Mohammad E. via yelp

For a s’mores treat that’s as homegrown as Macklemore himself, look no further than the Mackles’more from Hello Robin. Set atop a Graham Cracker, this gooey cookie features chunks of pure Theo Chocolate goodness and melty marshmallows. Order just the cookie or turn it into a sandwich that hugs your favorite Molly Moon ice cream flavor.

Hours: Vary by location

University Village
2570 N.E. University Village St.
Seattle, WA
206-397-3634

Capitol Hill
522 19th Ave. E.
Seattle, WA
206-735-7970

Online: hellorobincookies.com

Indulge Desserts

Indulge Desserts via yelp

Put this cupcake shop on your to-visit list when you visit the island of West Seattle. The s’more cupcake is everything it should be. With a toasted marshmallow frosting piled high on top of the chocolate-y cake, it’s the perfect balance of your favorite summer campfire flavors.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Sun. & Mon.

9003 35th Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA
206-428-8581
Online: indulgedessertsllc.com

—Allison Sutcliffe

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OREOs—and all their variations—are indisputably delicious. Now there’s one more way to enjoy the classic sandwich treat. You might want to add New Jersey to your upcoming trips list, because the first-ever OREO Café has opened!

Located at American Dream, the retail and entertainment complex in East Rutherford, the café is a dream come true for your sugar tooth. It features a treats bar, where visitors can pick from delicious items like a waffle sundae with baked-in OREO pieces or a cookies & cream OREO cheesecake. Or you can customize a treat by choosing a dessert base, then picking from a wide range of OREO-inspired toppings, adding up to more than 200 possible combinations!

Of course, there are plenty of OREO items to buy, including packages of cookies and limited-edition merch. That includes tote bags, branded apparel, home decor and more! We’re fans of the fuzzy slippers and the giant cookie pillows.

If you can’t make it to New Jersey but really need an OREO pillow in your life, you can buy online through oreo.com. But we’re definitely putting this new café on our bucket list!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of OREO

 

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Did you know you can do your weekly grocery shopping and give back at the same time? Thanks to the return of the ALDI and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) partnership, it’s easy!

Like last year, the duo is pairing up to offer limited-time ALDI Finds that will go on sale Wed., Jul. 14. The lemon-themed products will go towards ALDI’s corporate donation to ALSF, an organization that helps fund cancer research, education and support to families with children fighting cancer.

Some of the tasty offerings this year include Moser Roth Lemon Chocolate Truffles ($2.99), MoonPie Lemon Pies ($2.18), Bake Shop Mini Lemon Bites ($3.89), Nature’s Nectar Watermelon Lemonade ($1.29) and Sundae Shoppe Frozen Lemonade Bars ($2.40).

With each purchase, shoppers will help ALSF’s mission of changing the lives of children with cancer. So far, the organization, which was founded by 8-year-old Alex while she was battling cancer, has raised more than $200 million to fight the disease.

Each product will be available for a limited time at your local ALDI store.

—Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of ALDI

 

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