Whether you're hosting your own ghoulish gathering or taking something along to a friend's spooky soiree, these two recipes are just what you need to add some fiendish fun!
Spooky Spider Cupcakes
18-1/2 oz. chocolate cake mix
chocolate frosting
red cinnamon candies
red string licorice
orange & chocolate jimmies
Bake cupcakes as directed; allow to cool.Frost. Add red cinnamon candies for eyes and red string licorice for legs. Sprinkle on oranges and chocolate jimmies for additional features. Makes about one dozen. Passed out to special trick-or-treaters, these cupcakes are sure to make 'em smile!
Spiced Pear Cider
If warm weather is predicted, prepare it a day in advance and chill before serving it over crushed ice.
16 whole allspice berries
8 whole cloves
4 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks
6 c. unsweetened pear juice
2 c. pear nectar
Place allspice, cloves and cinnamon sticks in the center of a coffee filter or an 8-inch square of cheesecloth. Gather edges and tie with a small piece of kitchen string. Combine spice bag, pear juice and pear nectar in a 3-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low setting 3 hours. Remove and discard spice bag. Serve hot. Makes 8 cups.
Have little ones who want to help? Tell them the spices are secret ingredients from the witch's pantry and let them stir the brew before turning on the slow cooker.
