Showing posts sorted by date for query fall. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query fall. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Honey Mustard Magic: Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

 Calling all sandwich lovers! Today, we're taking the classic pulled pork sandwich to a whole new level of flavor with the help of your trusty Instant Pot. This recipe features a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that infuses the tender pork with deliciousness in no time.

Instant Pot Advantage:



The Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy cooks. It allows you to achieve fall-off-the-bone pulled pork in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Plus, the pressure cooker helps lock in all the juices, resulting in incredibly flavorful and moist meat.

Honey Mustard Harmony:

The honey mustard sauce is the star of the show. The perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavor profile that complements the richness of the pork beautifully. It's a flavor combination that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.



Building the Perfect Bite:

Now, let's talk about the sandwich itself. Pile that juicy pulled pork onto your favorite toasted buns. Add a creamy slaw for a touch of coolness and crunch. Don't forget a drizzle of extra honey mustard sauce for good measure.

Recipe:

Here's what you'll need to create these mouthwatering Honey Mustard Pulled Pork Sandwiches:

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Hamburger buns
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Extra honey mustard sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
  2. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. Place it in the Instant Pot on top of the liquid mixture.
  3. Close the lid and seal the pressure valve. Cook on high pressure for 70 minutes.
  4. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
  5. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it with two forks. Discard any excess fat.
  6. Return the shredded pork to the pot with the remaining cooking liquid. Stir to coat the pork in the sauce.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Toast your hamburger buns. Pile the pulled pork onto the buns and top with coleslaw and extra honey mustard sauce (if desired).



Tips:

  • For a thicker sauce, remove some of the shredded pork and set it aside. Bring the remaining sauce in the Instant Pot to a boil and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, stir the shredded pork back in.
  • Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

The Takeaway:


This Instant Pot Honey Mustard Pulled Pork Sandwich recipe is a flavor explosion waiting to happen. It's the perfect combination of easy, delicious, and satisfying. So, fire up your Instant Pot, whip up this recipe, and prepare to be amazed!


Find more favorite recipes here:

Foolproof Biscuits

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Instant Pot Peanut Butter Noodles

Spooky Snacks and Sips for Halloween

Halloween night chills the air with anticipation, but it doesn't have to chill your taste buds! This year, conjure up a cauldron of culinary delights that are both wickedly fun and frightfully flavorful. From creepy crawly cocktails to spine-tingling snacks, let's transform your Halloween spread into a haunted haven for the senses.

Set the Stage:

Drape your table in cobweb-like cheesecloth, scatter plastic spiders amongst the treats, and dim the lights for an eerie ambiance. Flickering candles or orange string lights add an extra touch of spooky charm. Don't forget the spooky tunes! A playlist of monster mash-ups and Halloween classics will set the mood for a fang-tastic feast.

Be sure to click through the links to view the full recipes.




 Beetlejuice Buttercream Board by Fork to Spoon

This buttercream board is perfect for Halloween parties. Add cookies, pretzels, or whatever you would like to dip in buttercream to the border for a snack that packs a lot of variety into each bite.


Poison Apple Cocktails by Three Olives Branch

This apple cocktail is ghoulishly green but the fun doesn't stop there! It includes a test tube of cinnamon flavored ‘poison’ to add a dark kick. Who will be brave enough to add a poison shot to this drink on Halloween night?


Mexican Chocolate Skull Cakes by My Bueno Cookbook

These skull cakes are loaded with tasty Mexican chocolate for a snack to share that is spooky yet so sweet. Top them with blood red icing if you like or some berry jam!


Alien Brain Hemorrhage Shots by The Littlest Crumb

These shots are so much fun to assemble and slam with your friends. These are freaky, taste fantastic and are sure to make your guests feel just a little apprehensive about drinking them.



Death by Chocolate Cupcakes by Live to Sweet

These look like an average cupcake, so what is so scary about them? They are so good that you will be nothing short of horrified after the last cupcake has been enjoyed!


Bloody Bellinis by Garlic and Zest 

This recipe makes the best bellinis! Use a good champagne and fresh cherry juice to get a gorgeous, bloody effect that adds so much flavor to each sip.


Skull Pizzas by Kitchen at Hoskins

This recipe is a total scream! Slice this up for a spooky snack that is so easy to make and always gets a great reaction.


Incredible Hulk Cocktails by A Nerd Cooks

This drink is so much fun for Halloween, it is perfect for the Hulk to sip, but your friends will also love it! It is destined to be a smash at your party





Spooky Spider Dip by Two Healthy Kitchens

Use a favorite dip that always turns out thick, then dress it up with this idea. Pepper slices make the ultimate spider and this is one healthy snack no one can resist!


Elegant Yet Spooky Halloween Charcuterie by Sugar and Charm

This spread of snacks is perfect for a party. It is easy to assemble and with a few skeleton hands placed strategically, this is sure to send a shiver up your spine as you grab a nibble.


Smoking Halloween Punch by A Full Living

Add dry ice to this boozy punch for a fabulous smoking effect. This punch has rum, cranberry juice and apple cider to make a flavorful fall option that everyone will love.


Jack Skellington Dessert Board by A Country Girls Life

This dessert board has a great variety of treats to dip into Jack’s cute frosting face. Add an assortment of cookies, wafers and sweets that pair well with frosting.


Spiderweb Cocktails by Amanda’s Cooking

This spiderweb cocktail recipe is perfect for a Halloween party. It is not only tasty but it has the best web decoration on top of each drink.


Mummy Shortbread Cookies by Pass Me a Spoon

This mummy shortbread cookie is easy and perfect for a party. It is lightly sweet, so buttery and all dressed up in tasty frosting wrappings.





Purple People Eater Cocktails by Everyday Shortcuts

This vibrant purple cocktail is just the thing to make and serve your ghouls, goblins and guests on  Halloween night. Garnish with candy eyes for the complete effect.


Skull Charcuterie by Everyday Shortcuts

This idea makes the spookiest snack platter yet. Form a skull shape and add plenty of prosciutto for a meaty main offering that everyone will want to take a crack at.


Black Mojito by The Healthful Ideas

Give your next mojito night a freaky effect with this recipe. It has all of the flavor you crave with a creepy black look to it. Use activated charcoal for an easy way to spooky up your sips.


Remember, the key to a spooktacular Halloween spread is to have fun and unleash your creativity! With a little imagination, you can transform everyday ingredients into hauntingly delicious treats that will have your guests shrieking with delight (and maybe a little bit of fear). So gather your ingredients, put on your spookiest grin, and get ready to whip up a Halloween feast that will be remembered long after the last ghost has flown home.

Find more great Halloween ideas here:

Favorite Fall Cocktails

 As the leaves change color and the air gets crisp, there's something undeniably magical about fall. It's a season that begs for cozy nights in, warm blankets, and, of course, delicious comfort food and drinks. And what better way to embrace the autumnal spirit than with a selection of handcrafted cocktails that capture the essence of the season?

Forget the store-bought pumpkin spice lattes (although, there's no shame in those either!). This blog post is all about elevating your fall experience with a variety of cocktail recipes, each bursting with the rich flavors of the season. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, we have something for everyone.

Dive into Deliciousness:
We're not just talking about the classic pumpkin spice concoction. These recipes offer a spectrum of flavors, from the warm and comforting to the refreshingly tart. Make sure you click through the links to get the full recipes.

Fall Gin and Tonic by Gastronom 
Whiskey Blood Orange Smash by Saporito Kitchen
Honeycrisp Apple Cocktail by Mooshu Jenne
Fall Sangria by The Forked Spoon
S’mores Shots by Spabettie
Tootsie Roll Shots by The Short Order Cook
Autumn Harvest Sangria by Ann’s Entitled Life
Apple Cider Mimosa by Crayons and Cravings
Amaretto Apple Cider Cocktail by Who Needs a Cape
Ginger Peach Whiskey Cocktail by Snacks and Sips

While you are here, check out a few of my other favorite cocktail recipes.

Sour Apple Margaritas are just right for those unseasonably warm fall afternoons.
Hillbilly Moonshine Apple Cider is always a favorite! This is a must try this fall.


Essential Home Upgrades for a Better Night's Sleep



boy in gray hoodie lying on black leather couch

source

A good night's sleep is essential for maintaining both your health and well-being. In urban cities, achieving quality rest can sometimes be even more challenging due to factors such as noise, lighting, and even your mattress. 

By making thoughtful upgrades to your home, you can significantly enhance the quality of your sleep, allowing you to wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day. 

Whether you’ve rented out an apartment in a bustling city or live in a two-story home in a quiet town, here are some essential home improvements to consider for a better night's sleep.

Upgrade Your Mattress for Comfort and Support

One of the most critical elements in ensuring a good night's sleep is having the right mattress. Over time, a mattress can lose its shape and support, which may lead to restless nights and discomfort, particularly in your neck and back. 

Many people overlook the importance of their mattress in achieving proper rest, but if yours is no longer offering adequate support, it may be time to invest in a new one.

A mattress suited to your specific needs—whether it's firmer or softer—can dramatically improve your sleep quality. Factors like mattress material, size, and firmness all contribute to how well it supports your body. 

Memory foam mattresses, for instance, are known for their ability to mould to your body's shape, while hybrid mattresses combine springs and foam to offer a balanced level of support.

It's crucial to know when to change your mattress, and in our fast-paced lives, being mindful of this can make all the difference. Generally, mattresses should be replaced every 7 to 10 years, but this can depend on your usage and personal comfort. Signs like sagging, lumpiness, or waking up with aches are key indicators that it's time for an upgrade.

Improve Your Bedroom's Lighting

Lighting is a significant factor in creating a sleep-friendly environment. Exposure to bright or blue-toned lights in the evening can throw off your natural body clock, making it difficult to wind down. Upgrading your lighting system is a simple but highly effective way to foster better sleep.

Consider installing dimmable lights or smart lighting that allows you to adjust brightness throughout the day. In the evenings, softer, warm lighting can help signal to your body that it's time to relax. Avoid using harsh lighting that mimics daylight, as it can disrupt melatonin production. 

Smart bulbs, which can be controlled via mobile apps, are an excellent option for gradually dimming the lights as bedtime approaches.

Blackout curtains are another great investment as they help block out external light from street lamps, taxis, or early morning sunshine, creating a darker, more peaceful environment to promote better sleep. 

Upgrade Your Bedding and Pillows

Beyond your mattress, your bedding and pillows also play a vital role in your sleep quality. If you wake up with neck or shoulder discomfort, it may be time to reconsider your pillow choices. Your pillow should support your head and neck in a way that aligns with your spine, reducing tension and improving overall comfort.

Different sleep positions require different types of pillows. For example, side sleepers might benefit from a firmer, loftier pillow, while back sleepers often find that a flatter pillow provides better support. 

Memory foam pillows have become increasingly popular due to their ability to contour to your sleeping position, offering a personalised sleep experience.

When it comes to bedding, fabrics like cotton or bamboo are ideal for regulating body temperature, ensuring that you stay comfortable throughout the night. Opting for high-thread-count sheets feels luxurious and prevents overheating, a common sleep disruptor. 

Control the Temperature in Your Bedroom

Maintaining a cool room temperature is key to a restful night's sleep. Most sleep experts agree that the ideal bedroom temperature is between 16 and 19 degrees Celsius. In cities with varying climates, controlling the temperature of your room can sometimes be tricky, but there are upgrades that can help.

Smart thermostats are an excellent way to regulate the temperature in your home, especially for people living in modern flats with central heating systems. These thermostats can be controlled via apps, allowing you to set the ideal temperature before bedtime. 

Additionally, devices like fans or portable air conditioners can be useful during summer months when temperatures rise.

In the winter, electric blankets or heated mattress pads can provide warmth without making the room stuffy. By keeping your bedroom temperature consistent, you'll find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Upgrade Your Noise Control

Noise can be one of the biggest disruptors of sleep. Whether it's the hum of traffic, the sound of people out late at night, or even your neighbours, unwanted noise can make it difficult to settle into sleep.

To tackle noise issues, you could invest in soundproofing for your bedroom walls or installing double-glazed windows, which can significantly reduce external sound. If that's not an option, a simpler solution might be to use a white noise machine or sound-absorbing curtains, which help drown out disruptive noises.

For those living in more bustling areas, earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones designed for sleep can also be effective solutions. These gadgets provide peace and quiet, allowing you to relax in a tranquil environment.

Incorporate Aromatherapy for Better Sleep

Aromatherapy can enhance your bedroom environment and promote better sleep. Scents like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood are known for their calming properties and can help create a relaxing atmosphere before bed. Integrating these scents into your routine is easy with essential oils, linen sprays, or scented candles.

Diffusers are a popular option, allowing you to fill your bedroom with your favourite calming scents while you prepare for sleep. The aromatherapy experience can mimic the soothing feel of a spa, helping you unwind and prepare for rest.

Incorporating these scents into your nightly routine can be especially beneficial for those dealing with the fast pace of city life. As you transition from a busy day in the city to a quiet evening, the power of scent can help create a peaceful sanctuary in your home.

All in all, upgrading your home for better sleep is a worthwhile investment, especially for those who live in urban cities and lead busy and sometimes stressful lives. From changing your mattress to incorporating smart lighting and noise control, these essential home upgrades can transform your bedroom into a restful oasis. By making these small but impactful changes, you can achieve deeper, more restorative sleep and wake up ready to take on another day.


Apple Process Art

It's that time of year again - leaves are changing, pumpkins are popping up everywhere, and what better way to celebrate than with a fun fall craft project? This activity is perfect for keeping little hands busy and creating some adorable apple artwork!




What you'll need:

  • Construction paper
  • Red, green, and brown paint
  • Shallow dishes or trays for paint
  • Wine corks
  • Baby wipes or paper towels (for clean-up!)
  • Optional: Glitter, markers, googly eyes for decorating



    Let's get stamping!

    Prepare your canvas: Unfold a large piece of construction paper. This will be the background for your giant apple!

    Cork transformation: Pour a small amount of red paint into one of your shallow dishes. Now comes the fun part! Press the flat end of the wine cork into the red paint, making sure it gets a nice, even coat.


Stamping time! Carefully, guide your child's hand as they press the painted end of the cork onto the construction paper. This will be the body of the apple. Repeat this process, creating multiple red circles close together to form a large apple.




Stem and Leaf: Use a paintbrush and green paint to add a long, curvy stem coming out of the top of the apple. For the leaf, dip a corner of the paintbrush in green paint and make a few small teardrop shapes next to the stem




Browning time (optional): Fall apples often have brown speckles on the skin. Use a brown paintbrush to gently dab small dots around the red apple to create this effect

Decoration Extravaganza! Now comes the fun part - decorating! Let your child unleash their creativity. They can add glitter for a sparkly apple, use markers to draw stripes or a cute face, or even stick on googly eyes for a silly apple friend.



    Pro-Tips:

    • Safety first! Cover your work surface with newspaper or a tablecloth to avoid paint splatters.
    • Little artists, big messes: For younger children, use washable paint and have plenty of baby wipes or paper towels on hand for clean-up.
    • Get creative! Don't limit yourselves to red apples. Experiment with other fall colors for a variety of apple creations!



    This easy and engaging craft is a fantastic way to spend quality time with your kids this fall. It allows them to explore their creativity, practice hand-eye coordination, and celebrate the beauty of the season. Plus, you'll end up with some adorable apple artwork to proudly display! So grab those wine corks, unleash the paint, and get stamping!

Find all of my favorite fall crafts here:

Unique and Tasty Jello Shots

 Life needs a little jiggle sometimes, wouldn't you agree? And what better way to add a playful bounce to your step (or your party!) than with a vibrant, delicious jello shot? These sweet treats are the perfect blend of fun and refreshment, guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone's face.

Whether you're a seasoned party host or a jello shot newbie, this post is your one-stop shop for inspiration. We've got recipes to tantalize every taste bud, from classic favorites to boozy twists that will knock your socks off (metaphorically, of course!).

Be sure to click through the links to find the recipes you want to try.



Strawberry Cream Jello Shots by Fun Money Mom

These boozy little jello shots are just the thing for a summer party.


Easy Vegan Jello Shots by Cooking on Caffeine

This recipe makes for vegan jello shots so everyone can join in on the fun!


Pina Colada Jello Shots by Fun Money Mom

Give your tastebuds a tropical trip with these pretty pina colada jello shots.


Green Apple Jello Shots by Easy Party Cocktails

These jello shots have so much green apple flavor! These are awesome for a fall bonfire party.


Lemonade Jello Shots by Kimspired DIY

Give summer vibes with these incredibly flavorful lemonade shots!


Butterbeer Jello Shots by Simplistically Living

Adult fans of Harry Potter are going to want to cast a spell on you to get this recipe for butterbeer jello shots.


Peach Jello Shots by Organized Island

Pack a whole lot of peachy flavors into one tiny little cup with this recipe!


Champagne Jello Shots by Sugar+Soul

These champagne jello shots are just the thing for a celebration or New Years Eve.


Caramel Apple Jello Shots by Persnickety Plates

Having a fall gathering? Then you need to make a double batch of these caramel apple shots!


Cotton Candy Jello Shots by Princess Pinky Girl

These cotton candy jello shots are just so much boozy fun that you pretty much have to share them with your pals!


Strawberry Cheesecake Jello Shots by Cheesecake It Is

If you love cheesecake, then save this recipe for a boozy treat that feels so indulgent.


Creamsicle Jello Shots by Centsless Meals

These jello shots taste just like a summer staple with a kick! You will love these!


Rainbow Jello Shots by Balancing Motherhood

Layers of color make for a rainbow jello shot that is just the thing to brighten up  a rainy evening!


Layered Jello Shots by Surf and Sunshine

Layer these jello shots for a fun and pretty effect! These are going to be a hit at your next party.


Keto Jello Shots by Mom Foodie

This recipe makes for keto jello shots that are a guilt free way to let loose!


  • Always use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Clearly label your jello shots, especially if you're serving them to guests who may not be familiar with their contents.
  • Enjoy responsibly! Pace yourself and know your limits.

So grab your blender, dust off your shot glasses, and get ready to jiggle your way to jello shot fun! With these recipes as inspiration, you're sure to create sweet memories that will last a lifetime (or at least until the last shot is gone!).


Find more tasty cocktail recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Hill Billy Cider Cocktails

Bomb Pop Cocktails