Nine Favorite Things.
Thanks for joining me for another Nine Favorite Things post.
Hey, hi, and welcome to the very last Sunday of October. This time next week marks November 1st and the start of the crazy, but wonderful holiday season. Honestly? I can’t really wrap my head around the fact that we’re entering the final week of October, that Halloween is this coming Saturday, and that we have only two short months left of 2020. I’m excited for all that’s to come, but also just wondering where time is going. It feels like just yesterday that I was getting ready to head to NYC for the release of the HBH Super Simple Cookbook and make my first national live TV appearance on Good Morning America. It was such a fun and exciting time, and as I’ve said, I miss it a little!
Everything that has followed since the book’s release has been truly amazing. I can’t believe it’s been a year and I really, really can’t believe all that’s happened in a year. It’s fun to look back on!! I’m so thankful for all of you guys, your support, and the fact that even though I ramble on daily, you still come back to hang. I know I say this a lot, but you guys feel like family!
Anyway!! This week! It was quite a week, to say the least. It threw us some very major, but very exciting (and happy) curveballs on the family front (more on that next Sunday). There’s also some fun and exciting work stuff ahead. It’s been all over the place and busy. What’s new right?
My family has been in town this week, so per usual when everyone is in Colorado, it’s really just chaos. That said, I love having them around and it’s been especially helpful this week. My parents ended up having to take a last-minute trip to Texas. They couldn’t take Asher with them, so she is being bounced around between my siblings and me. And you know something? She misses my mom and dad, but she’s having the time of her life.
She spent the weekend in Denver with my brothers and sister-in-law, Lynds, but tonight she’s stuck with me. My plan is to get everything checked off my Sunday to-do list during the day so that I can surprise her with that Halloween movie night she’s been begging me to put on my to-do list all month long. That poor girl wants nothing more than a night of spooky movies and time with her sister. It the absolute sweetest thing I’ve ever seen. She even spent Thursday night with me helping me clean the studio kitchen after cooking all day. What twelve year does that? She said, “Tieg I just want to spend time with you, so I’m gonna help you clean”.
I mean? She’s just the cutest and I love her. So, I’m going to make sure that Halloween movie night happens tonight. My dad should be back home tomorrow night, so tonight is the perfect night. Any suggestions for movies? She already has a full list and will be demanding a mocktail pomegranate ginger paloma (aka pomegranate juice with lots of lime and topped off with ginger beer) with a side of popcorn.
So that’s my Sunday for you! It’s going to be busy, but will end in the sweetest best way possible. How about all of you? What are you up to today? Is anyone making a batch of my cider pumpkin waffles this morning?
Coming up this week on HBH, we’ll have lots of fall comfort foods! Monday is a new one pot pasta. Tuesday is all about a new game day appetizer that will also be great for the upcoming holidays. Hoping to share a warming vegetarian soup on Wednesday. Then, a quick dinner on Thursday with an Asian Twist. And for Friday? Jumping ahead a little and sharing something sweet that will be great for the chilly months of November and December. Saturday’s cocktail is a wildcard…I haven’t got a clue what it is yet, but it will be good…my autumn/holiday cocktail list is a mile long.
In addition, if you’re catching up on blog posts from the week, be sure to sign up for our daily newsletters. They’ll help you to stay up to date with everything that’s happening here, as well as fun content you’ll only get via email. If you’re meal planning today, don’t forget to check out my menu below (it’s # 9 on the favorite’s list). You can grab the full grocery list for this week’s menu in our special Sunday newsletter.
1. A few favorite questions for you…
I have questions for you! I did one these way back in April and thought it was so much fun. So I’m doing it again, but the fall version! Excited to hear what you’re up to, how you’re doing, and what you’re looking forward to!!
- Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
- What’s making you the happiest this month?
- What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
- Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
- What do you love most about fall?
- What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
- Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Bonus Question: Is there anything you need from me this coming month? Tell me everything you want, I am open ears!
My answers…
1. Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you are excited to travel to soon(ish)?
I am home in Colorado! But very excited for a trip to LA just before Thanksgiving. I’m filming some fun things and can’t wait!
2. What’s making you the happiest this month?
So many things! You know I love this time of year. I love Halloween, the crisp cool fall air, the colors on the trees, and the coziest recipes. But the thing that’s making me the happiest is my special bond with my little sister, Asher. I feel really lucky that even though we’re fifteen years apart, we have the closest relationship. She’s my best little friend!
3. What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
Hard to pick only two, but off the top of my head, I love this Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup and my Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Frosting
4. Name one product or service you’re loving the most this month?
I have a lot, but narrowing it down to three. I LOVE this candle so much. It’s the biggest splurge, but to me, a candle is worth it. Don’t judge, I have a candle obsession. Then, Violet Grey! They are my go-to source for beauty products. I love the Dewy Skin Cream and the Dewy Skin Night Concentrate by Tatcha. I use this essence, and this oil from Vintner’s Daughter, and then the Dewy Skin Cream. My skin has never looked healthier…even though it’s very tired. And lastly, I am still obsessed with this cozy knit sweater, I can’t stop wearing it.
5. What do you love most about fall?
Wearing cozy sweaters, the leaves, pumpkins, apples, crisp weather, burning candles, and the excitement for the upcoming holidays.
6. What are you looking forward to most for the upcoming holidays?
Decorating, cooking, and spending time with my family. And finding my mom’s gifts. I love gift giving!
7. Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
It’s just my siblings and cousins this year. So the normal group. We don’t usually have extended family out to Colorado for the holidays, but we do always have stray friends! We keep it close-knit and I love it so much!
2. Nine favorite fall recipes to bake today.
Cinnamon Swirl Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Butter Bread
Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Frosting
Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze
Glazed Brown Sugar Maple Cookies
Pumpkin Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Honey Butter
Milk Chocolate Stuffed Jack-O’-Lantern Cookies
Pumpkin Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cinnamon Spiced Apple Fritters with Vanilla Coffee Glaze
Bonus: Spiced Pumpkin Maple Latte
Bonus: 6 Ingredient Spiced Pumpkin Butter
Question: so what are you baking then?
3. For The November Home…
4. Favorite question of the week…
q: Do you wear an apron over those luscious sweaters when you cook?
a: The truth? I only put my sweater on when I am in front of the camera. When I am really cooking, I am in one of my favorite hoodies. I LOVE my sweaters, but I am a messy cook and I don’t want to ruin them. That said I’ve started to wear an apron ever since our aprons launched on Etsy this month.
5. It’s snowing today sooo…
Cozying up to my Boll & Branch sheets. I switched to these in early September and I am obsessed with them now. They’re the softest, and I love knowing that the sheets are made with 100% organic cotton and are free of chemicals. The knit blanket I got is perfect for our frigid cold Colorado nights!
I shared this on Instagram, but not yet with you guys! If you use the code 20HALFBAKED you’ll get 20% off your order. The code is valid until November 1st! Perfect for holiday gifts too! The next items on my to-try list are their bath linens. They look so soft!
PS. while I did work with Boll & Branch this past month on Instagram, this is not sponsored. I’m just sharing because I really do love these sheets. I want you all to be able to use the discount while I’ve still got it!!
6. A few photos from the week.
Asher…and all her animals.
Bren and Lynds, dropping off my new surfaces.
Our neighbor’s horses.
Asher and her camel…just a normal father-daughter outing.
New wallpaper in our kitchen cabinet.
7. Favorite links i’m loving…
How To Make a Haunted Cookie House for Halloween…oh my gosh. I have to make this with Asher today.
Finished Binge Watching Emily in Paris…here’s what to stream next. I’m watching Gossip Girl yet again.
How to Determine the Right Foundation Shade Every Time…this is so helpful. I never know how to pick my shade.
Monique Gibson’s New York City Home Is a Live-Work Dream…I love this space and never would have guessed it’s in the city.
Plan a Greenhouse Wedding in 7 Weeks? No Problem…this would be my ideal wedding. Small and cozy.
Cameron Diaz Takes AD Into Her Kitchen, Wine in Hand…loved this interview and am excited to try her new brand of wine, Avaline.
7 Chef-Approved Jarred Pasta Sauces to Keep in Your Pantry at All Times…Raos Homemade is my favorite sauce.
Look Inside This Eclectic English Countryside Escape…
Shop Madewell’s Black Friday Sale This Weekend…love this cozy cardigan and crewneck sweatshirt.
How Jennifer Garner Keeps Her Spirits Up at Home While Navigating 2020…fun Sunday read. Also the “Pretend Cooking Show” is a must-watch.
What’s The Most Charming Thing Someone’s Ever Done For You…love this post. So many sweet notes.
Inside Supermodel Elsa Hosk’s Vintage-Filled SoHo Loft…such a fun open floor plan. I love the loft bedroom.
8 Facts You Need to Know About Immune Health…always good to know.
A Surreal New Bookstore Has Just Opened in China…wow. That’s a serious bookstore.
12 Things I Wish I Could Tell My Single Self…if you’re struggling with being single, read this.
6 Items at the Grocery Store with the Biggest Markups…and what to get instead.
8. Cozy and Affordable finds from H&M…
9. this week’s favorite dinners…
Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday (breakfast for dinner):
Thursday:
Friday:
Saturday: Ginger Apple Moscow Mule
Sunday:
Finally, check out all the past Nine Favorite Things posts here.
Hi Tieghan! Another lovely Sunday post – I enjoy reading your blog every day! Here in the U.K. a lot of families are likely going to have to spend Christmas apart from the loved ones they usually celebrate with so would be great to see some 2 person meal or holiday ideas to reflect those that can’t gather and celebrate? Thanks so much! Maryann
That is such a great idea! Thank you Maryann! xTieghan
Love the Sunday posts-they are my Sunday treat to myself with a cup of coffee, in bed, after the creatures have been fed! So thanks for doing this & in to your questions.
1. We are on MD’s Lower Eastern Shore, 5 minutes from Ocean City MD. We’ve lived here 2 years, after building our dream home. We LOVE being here, especially after tourist season! However, once we are comfortable traveling we’d like to go to Australia, see all of the MLB ball parks on the West Coast (combined with visits to family & friends) & go up to see my sister & her family in New England.
2. Happiest-our 8 month old orange tabby kittens. They are better than TV with their antics. We also have 2 more cats-17 & 12 years old plus our nearly 19 year old rescued yellow lab.
Also, my art quilting studio. It’s a small-ish Office space behind a local church, right in the heart of Berlin, MD. I can be as messy or as neat as I want & I can produce some cool stuff to satisfy my inner artist!
Finally, my part time work as Sussex County Coordinator for Literacy Delaware. Sussex County has chicken processing plants & landscaping businesses so a high proportion of immigrants who want to learn English. Although we also do Adult Basic Education, my particular specialty is English as a Second Language. Our learners are amazing!
3. Fall recipes-savoury: crispy toasted Brussels Sprouts; sweet: salted caramel anything
4. Self-care-still searching!
5. Holidays will certainly be different this year! Usually I travel to New England to see my family but opted not to go this year. It was a tough decision but the combination of COVID & flu season has me VERY nervous. My wife is immmuno compromised so we are careful without being maniacs. However, this year it will probably be just the two of use with all of the critters. I think the kittens (aka the Beastie Boyz) are too heavy to try to climb the tree although I would not put it past our oldest cat to teach them how to “undecorate” the lower tree branches. The ornament box has a special bag for unbreakables, which are hung in the lowest branches of the tree.
Again, thanks for all you do-you are amazing!
Hi Dale! Wow this was amazing to read! I am really glad you are living in a place that you love and you have a space to be creative nearby! Also, I think its amazing that you are helping immigrants learn English! Wow! I hope you and your wife are staying safe and have a wonderful week! Thank you for sharing! xTieghan
Halloween Movie: Fun Size – it was filmed in Cleveland, so you may even recognize some of the scenery. Fun fact, I was the on set edible food stylist – I made the ‘candy bacon’ and the candy studded pancakes.
Ok that is so cool!! Is that what you do for work full time? Sounds pretty awesome haha! I will check it out! Thanks Tamara! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
We are on the seacoast in New Hampshire! Really want to get to Netherlands to visit family, but for now enjoying fall in New England,
What’s making you the happiest this month?
Definitely some cozier fall meals and tall boots!
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
Your salsa verde chicken enchiladas are probably my favorite dish of all time. Also, those pumpkin butter chocolate chip cookies were out of this world. I think I shared that cookie recipe with 20 people.
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
Product: My hair stylist used evo hair products on me this week and I want to get my hands on that collection. Service-hired myself a house cleaner this month—-AMAZING.
What do you love most about fall?
The invitation to come outside and see the beauty, but also the cozy vibes it creates inside with lots of fall baking and cooking and harry potter marathons.
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Looking forward to enjoying it all with my 2 year old kiddo and seeing the joy it brings her.
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Entertaining, but on the small side !
Hi Emilie! I am so happy you have been loving my recipes and I hope you continue to! So kind of you to share them as well! Also yes the HP marathons when it gets chilly.. thats the best!! I hope you have an amazing week and holiday season! Thank you! xTieghan
1. Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
I live in Minnesota, I am actually taking a little road trip to Illinois in a few weeks to meet up with a friend.
2. What’s making you the happiest this month?
The beautiful fall weather & beautiful colors from earlier this month. We now have snow 😂
3. What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
Any chili or soup right now and homemade pumpkin lattes.
4. Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
Loving Cultivate What Matters Powersheets for goal setting & planning. They help to bring such intention to my life and have helped me cultivate habits and make projects happen.
5. What do you love most about fall?
I don’t think I can name just one! Probably the leaves changing beautiful colors!
6. What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Hopefully making new memories and seeing family.
7. Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
It is so hard to tell, we may entertain a small group of family if a larger family gathering does not happen.
I adore your photos above and love seeing Asher with all of her animals! You two have such a special bond.
Hi Becca! I am so happy you are enjoying fall and its snowing! Same with where I live haha. Pumpkin spice lattes from home definitely help with the cold! I hope you are able to see your family this year and enjoy the holidays! Thank you for sharing! xTieghan
OK, so I have two teenagers (15 and 13) and we have recently watched Hubie Halloween with Adam Sandler which was funny, and one that caught me by surprise… Fun Size. It’s got some sexual talk but not content in it, and it was HILARIOUS! Our whole family was laughing!!!
As for a product I love… I’ve been using this skincare set and my 42 year old skin has never looked better. I had been breaking out on my forehead and for the first time in a while I have clear skin there. Plus, it’s clean and natural: https://somecallmecrunchy.com/collections/face/products/facial-care-set
Making me the happiest: my toddler started going back to preschool this week and I feel like I can actually get things done again!!! Also love my late afternoon/early evening golden hour walks with him. It’s so fun to see the world through his eyes.
I love everything about fall and can’t choose a favorite, but I suppose the warm glow that surrounds everything might be it. Everything just feels more magical.
I am in NC and we just went to the mountains last weekend for 3 days of hiking and relaxing sans kids and it was a beautiful, perfect fall weekend.
Our holidays will just be us… small and simple.
Gonna finish reading then it’s off to start your slow cooker bean chili!
Oh thank you so much for sharing, I will check them out! I am so happy it is making you feel confident.. YES! Also, it really is the best to see the world through childrens eyes. They have such a beautiful outlook on life! I hope you have an amazing week, Cassie! Thank you! xTieghan
Wondering why you are talking about traveling and family gatherings when the covid virus is up ticking in so many states. Drs. and scientists say it’s time to be more cautious. You have such a large following it could be a platform telling people to not gather. But you must practice what you preach.
I made your butternut squash carbonara this week and it was a big hit. My husband said “it’s a keeper” – words not commonly uttered by him. I love seeing all your amazing fall-inspired desserts!
Wow that is so amazing! I am really glad this turned out so well for you, Heather! xTieghan
Good morning. I have tried to sign up for emails since last spring.. I get the message that I am already in the system. However, I never receive emails. I checked the blocked file and trash and they are not there. Please advise. I really enjoy your blog and have your latest cookbook.
Hi Cheryl! Thank you for letting me know! Could you please send me an email? [email protected] xTieghan
Iam in New Zealand we,re heading into summer just love all your recipes and blog.
Thank you so much Helen! I am really glad you enjoyed this recipe! xTieghan
Good morning, Tieghan! I look forward to Sunday mornings and Nine Favorite Things. Thanks for posting this every week. Loving Asher’s boots. Are they Blundstone’s? Have a great week, Linda
Thank you Linda! I am really glad you like my nine favorite things! Asher’s boots are actually Dr. Martens! xTieghan
Watch Hubie Halloween on Netflix! It’s great and new this year which is always fun.
Thank you Kristin! xTieghan
And it looks like there’s a remake of Roald Dahls “ The Witches” streaming on HBOmax starring Anne Hathaway! I loved the Angelica Huston version when I was a kid.
Thank you! xTieghan
1. Enjoying coffee and morning quite from my couch in Tennessee, and dreaming about cross-country drives to see my son’s on the west coast.
2.I am happiest with three big creative projects which, if I can pull them off, will take me through 2022. Big dreams + hard work = happy me!
3. Any recipe about soup or one sheet meals has me excited to be in the kitchen. As for sweet – its always a chocolate chip cookie for me.
4. Not a big product/service girl so I’m passing on this one.
5. As a visual artist Its all about the colors
6. Creating new traditions while honoring the old. With my parents passed on and my 2 children unable to come home this season it’s the first time my holidays will be different. Less family, less people to share stories with, less laughter. Its time to transition to a very small tree, less baking, and creating wrapped gifts which become as special as the gift within – all opened virtually of course. virtual gift opening.
7. Its just the hubs and the pets so we’ll do what we do most days: make a delicious meal, enjoy a fire, read, and then watch some tube. Currently hooked on Britannia and Fargo – who knows what our guilty watch will be come the holidays.
Thanks for posting these questions, and for being one of my Sunday morning routines.
Hi Kimberli! I love that you are dreaming big and working hard!! YES! Also, hopefully you are able to see your sons soon and enjoy some quality time. I know its not the same being alone during the holidays, but new traditions always help! Thank you so much for sharing with me. I hope you have a wonderful week! xTieghan
I would love to see a recipe on a new take on a pork roast with some type of apple dressing…
Hmm sounds so good! I will try to get one together for you! xTieghan
I just love your posts and your recipes. I try to make one a week but would love to see more vegetarian recipes, lower fat and less ingredients. I am disabled with permanent severe nerve pain and my husband just broke his hip. I’ve gone from him doing most things to me doing everything. So, I’m keeping things simple!
I’m so impressed with you and you inspire me to do more cooking. Wishing you the best of luck in the future!
Hi Tara! I am so sorry to hear that! I hope you are both doing well and he is recovering quickly! I will try to get more simpler recipes for you both! Have you tried any of the recipes in my Super Simple cookbook? I feel like you may enjoy some of those! Thank you and have an amazing week! xTieghan
Super cool/random – I love that your sister has a camel!
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
I just stumbled upon home brand EQ3 (Canadian) – I am decorating a new place and will be placing an order there but especially excited about a trio of little vases to display year-round with buds and branches, Pebble and Posey are my favorites:
https://www.eq3.com/us/en/category/accessories/accents/decoration?page=1&sort=price-asc&count=24
Hi! Oh, it is not ours, my dad and little sister went for a trip to see them! I love that you are decorating a new place.. SO exciting! I hope it all turns out amazing for you! xTieghan
1.Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)? I live in Portland, Oregon! We travel home to Southern California a lot and are hoping to go back once it is safe to do so
2. What’s making you the happiest this month? Cool weather and long walks!
3. What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!! Savory- lentil soup. Sweet- apple pie
4. Name one product or service you’re loving most this month? I just bought snapware tupperware and am loving it
5. What do you love most about fall? Cool walks and hot chocolate in the evenings
6. What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays? Family time
7. Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller? Much smaller. Hoping we can travel home.. but everything is so fluid!
Hi Becky! I am defitely loving the weather and long walks lately too. It is so needed to clear my head! Also, snapware tupperware is the best and so underrated! So happy you got some haha! I hope you are able to see your family this year and have an amazing holiday season! Thank you for sharing! xTieghan
Hello,
I’d love to have a traditional peanut butter cookie with choco chips recipe, made with milk and no frills. Just a basic go-to that has nice height and makes a great apres ski treat.
Thank you!
Love the apres ski treat idea! Thank you Nilli! Also, I am not sure if you will have any interest in one of these cookie recipes, but I just have so many chocolate + PB options, I thought I’d share! xTieghan
https://dev.halfbakedharvest.com/chocolate-chip-peanut-butter-swirled-cookie-bars/
https://dev.halfbakedharvest.com/slice-n-bake-chocolate-covered-peanut-butter-cookies/
https://dev.halfbakedharvest.com/giant-chocolate-chip-cookie-cookie-dough-peanut-butter-cups/
1. Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you are excited to travel to soon(ish)?
I live in Reykjavík, Iceland. I can’t wait to start traveling again but that won’t be happening until covid is over.
2. What’s making you the happiest this month?
My 27th birthday is in the upcoming week and that’s always exciting.
3. What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
I love to make soup or chili when the weather gets colder and it starts to get dark outside in the afternoon. I think apple pies are a must to make in the fall but right now I’m loving everything with chai spice.
4. Name one product or service you’re loving the most this month?
Not really a product or service but warm and cozy sweaters.
5. What do you love most about fall?
I love the long and bright days of summer but I secretly like when it gets darker with all the candlelight, warmer clothes, soups and chili, warm tea and so on 🙂
6. What are you looking forward to most for the upcoming holidays?
I love everything about the holidays! Baking, decorating (all the Christmas lights light up the darkness and it’s so pretty), buying gifts, watching movies (Harry Potter marathon is a must each year), spending time with family, taking walks in the snow and eat and drink something warm afterwards.
7. Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Depends on how things develop but it’ll probably be small with only the closest family.
Hi Berglind! Wow that is super cool you live in Iceland.. I definitely want to go there sometime! Also, SO exciting your birthday is coming up.. Happy Birthday in advance haha! I am definitely loving some cozy sweaters this year as well! Especially with everything not fully back to normal and spending a lot of time at home.. give me the coziest sweater please haha! I hope you have an amazing week and holiday season! xTieghan
HI Tiegan
I live in the Philadelphia suburbs. I can’t wait to travel to Sydney, AU to visit our son who has lived there for the past 11 years. We had to cancel our trip there in the spring.
I’m loving the beautiful colors this fall. COVID has certainly made me slow down and appreciate all the beauty surrounding me.
I’m enjoying your fall salad recipes with kale, Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, apples, and other autumnal ingredients.
For self-care, I’m lucky enough to have a trainer come to our home and supervise workouts for me and my husband on our “pandemic, outside gym”. Pretty nice to do crunches while looking at the sky and seeing leaves fall.
This holiday season hubby and I will be in Minneapolis to help our daughter and her husband with their soon to be born twin boys. We will do lots of cooking for them and your recipes will be frequently featured. I can’t wait to make your pretzel chicken finger recipe with our 4 yo granddaughter. It will be fun to decorate and prepare for Christmas with a 4-year-old.
I love your Sunday post. Can’t wait to see what you have coming this week..
Ooo that is so nice that you are able to have your trainer come over. I am sure it is way more motivating than trying to do home workouts on your own! Also, wow! How does he like living there? That is so far, but its amazing you get to go visit at least once a year! I hope you have a fun and amazing week! xTieghan
I always look forward to your Sunday posts! Thanks for another inspiring and fun read. Loved seeing Asher and her camel is the cutest thing!
Thank you so much Megan! I am really glad you enjoyed this post! xTieghan
Oh my.
Just a girl with her 🐫..lol.
Where do you find an camel and what do they eat?
Amazing
I would definitely have to ask my dad or Asher how they found this one… But I think they just eat hay and tree leaves.. stuff like that! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)? i’m in South Florida! Excited to come home to Colorado for a visit at the end of January – hopefully! We are planning to snowboard in Wolf Creek!
What’s making you the happiest this month? My best friend and her husband moving back to Florida!
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!! Apple Butter and Sage Pork Chops – so easy and so delicious!! I haven’t made any sweet recipes yet – but all of the recipes you’ve posted lately look amazing! Hopefully I will have time to make one for a Halloween party this weekend!
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month? I’m loving my local Farmer’s Market this month – they have had the most amazing vendors with homemade pasta, fresh greens, tomatoes, mushrooms, pasta sauce, granola, and creamed honey!
What do you love most about fall? In Florida I love when we get our first cold front and I can open up the windows and air the house out. But as far as a traditional fall – I love the beauty of the changing leaves.
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays? Seeing my mom & step-dad, graduating college (at 42 years young 🙂 , and just having some good old fashioned cheer after a tough year.
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller? Small gatherings
Bonus Question: Is there anything you need from me this coming month? Tell me everything you want, I am open ears! You always surpass my needs/wants/expectations! Thank you for sharing your talent with us!!
Hi Rachel! Aw that is so fun that you are headed to Colorado! Are you driving or flying? Also, yes to enjoying your local farmers markets! I have been as well. They are the best and it supports small business which I love! Thank you so much for sharing with me, I hope you continue to enjoy my recipes and posts! xTieghan
I forgot to add that I seriously love the pictures of Asher with her camel! She is one blessed girl and so so sweet. I love that she just wants to hang with her big sister!
Thank you so much Rachel! I am really glad this recipe turned out so well for you! xTieghan
Oh my goodness I just found you! I bought your Half Baked Harvest Simple Dinners cookbook. I had a delightful time reading it as I did drooling over every recipe. I’m in Colorado as well, not native, but claim to be. Thrilled to find your blog. Although I could never eat everything you post about or I would be as big as a barn, literally! I love that the variety will allow me to feed friends and family. I travel for a living so your blog will allow me to live vicariously through your world while I’m
Away from beautiful Colorado. I’ll be sharing this with everyone. I have a daughter who is what I call a Bohemian Baker, she gets literally lost in her world as she creates. She and her son live with my husband and myself. She fills our house with so much energy and spice that I cannot imagine not having them. She is thrilled to have a new blog to follow and I’m sure her delight is the recipes she’s already concocting. What a delight to delve into your corner of the world! Thank you for sharing your talents!
Hi Ashley! I am so happy you found my blog and have been enjoying my cookbook! I love that your daughter can find a little freedom with baking.. it sounds like she really enjoys it! Thank you so much for sharing and I hope you have a wonderful week! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
– in NYC working from our tiny apartment, and excited to travel to Charlotte NC over thanksgiving to check it out as a potential place to move in a couple years!
What’s making you the happiest this month?
The peak season leaves and beautiful hikes in the nyc area
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
Pork chops with sage and brown butter; pumpkin bread
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
Williams Sonoma handsoaps – almost time for Winter Forest
What do you love most about fall?
Energising walks in the morning or at golden hour followed by a well deserved hot meal
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Time for lots of rest
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Small – just immediate family but excited to have plenty of time together without distraction
Oh wow that is exciting! Have you been there before? I love that you are enjoying hikes lately, they have been one of the bests for me as well! Also, I hope you have an amazing week full of everything that makes you happy! Thank you Kelsey! xTieghan
Hey, Tieghan! Thanks for another great 9FT post – the highlight of my Sunday! I had no idea camels were so huge…never seen one in person! Beautiful horses too.
1.) Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
I live in Stockholm Sweden, and am looking forward to (hopefully) traveling to visit family in California, and exploring some places in Eastern Europe that are on my bucket list when things “normalize”.
2.) What’s making you the happiest this month?
The beautiful change of seasons in this part of the world, cooking with seasonal fall ingredients like apples, butternut squash, sweet potatoes.
3.) What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
I love anything taco for savory. I experiment with taco varieties all year round and for fall, I recently made black bean, chorizo, and sweet potato tacos with avocado crema, whipped feta, and jalapeno kale slaw. Wasn’t too shabby for an “on the fly” meal. I don’t have much of a sweet tooth, but recent sweet creations have been to perfect my chocolate chip cookies, and my Mexican chocolate skillet cake.
4.) Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
Matrix Biolage fiberstrong shampoo and conditioner – ideal for hair that gets irritable and frizzy in extreme climates.
5.) What do you love most about fall?
Apple, vanilla, cinnamon, pumpkin, nutmeg, clove, ANYTHING. The fall colors on the trees, the crisp, cool air, using the slow cooker more often, and putting on pajamas early because it gets dark in Scandinavia at 4 PM now…perfect excuse!
6.) What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Christmas markets, glögg (hot spiced wine), traveling to the countryside to enjoy the snow, decorating for Christmas, and having holiday dinner with my partner and family over here.
7.) Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Entertaining, but on a small scale. A few close friends and family over for dinner, holiday gatherings, and drinks at home.
Best wishes, Tieghan! Looking forward to more great stuff from HBH, and still praying that there is someday a “Half-Baked Holidays” special cookbook produced. 😉
Hi Aline! I love that you are experimenting with tacos.. They are the best and those sound amazing as well! Also, you can never go wrong with chocolate chip cookies! Thank you for sharing all of this with me! But please tell me more about this hot spiced wine.. YUM! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
Nashville, TN. Hopefully traveling to Canada to see my childhood best friend when the borders open up!
What’s making you the happiest this month?
Oh gosh….my pumpkin decorations in my house, hot cider, fall weather, sweaters.
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
Love making coq au vin this time of year and I want to try a pot roast. Sweet wise, love pumpkin bread and pie. Excited to make your vanilla chai pumpkin muffins next weekend for my in-laws 🙂
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
My kitchenaid mixer because fall baking is a must!
What do you love most about fall?
I dress way better in the fall/winter than I do in the spring/summer. Sweaters and jackets are my favorite.
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Decorating our new home and hopefully visiting Terrain in November!
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Probably keeping things a little smaller this year. My parents are older so we want to make sure it’s safe to be with them at Thanksgiving.
I love that you are enjoying the weather and the fall smells! They are the best! Also, I feel like I dress way better too.. I love sweaters haha! Good luck decorating the new home! That is so exciting! Thank you Margaret! xTieghan
Love your posts. Think of you every evening during nightly news, reporting of fires in Colorado. Hope they are not near your home!
No, fortunately we are safe where we are! But it is really scary hearing about them! Hoping everyone is staying safe! xTieghan
I’ve been following for more than a year now, and really enjoy you posts, recipes and always your Nine fav. Things! Thanks for a great site 😁
I’ve got to ask, you guys have a camel?! I love camels, may be slightly obsessed. You need to do some camel cookie cutter cookies for little Asher! Xx
Haha no, we do not have a camel! It was just a trip my sister and dad took to see one! But maybe we need one…? Lol! Thank you so much Kelly! I hope you continue to enjoy my blog and recipes! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
Arlington, Virginia…..nothing planned….but would love to try a trip to Ireland….a weekend at the beach would be fabulous
What’s making you the happiest this month?
apple picking, pumpkin patches and fall festivals
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
anything pumpkin…..pumpkin cheesecake and pumpkin soup
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?’
instacart….extremely busy at work and can’t get to the store – can either bake or meal plan on the weekend thanks to this service.
What do you love most about fall?
college football and hoodies
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
traditions…wreath making day with family, making holiday centerpieces with my bff…and holiday baking for giving
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
keeping it small….immediate family only
Hi Sandi! I love that you are enjoying all of the fall things, especially the foods! I have heard instacart is great, but unfortunately we don’t have it where I am at! Oh well! I hope you have an amazing week! xTieghan
1- Portland,OR. No travel plans for the foreseeable future but really looking forward to the day Broadway reopens.
2-I’m loving working from home, seeing my yard transition to fall and all the apple and pumpkin recipes I’m finally finding time to try out this year.
3-A variation of your veggie chili but made with ancho, and I Loved making your Apple butter (so many cocktails have been made with) and those Apple blondies. Next up want to make those coffee apple fritters and the pumpkin coffee cake muffins.
4-Warm spices, cozy layers and seeing the Street lights glow red and gold in the fall trees at night.
5-I am in love with the Jcrew cloud fleece sweatpants. I mean, cloud fleece? Yes please! And the Anthropologie Silvana tumblers make having a glass of water feel special! As for services I love all the grocery/food/ delivery services, Instacart, Whole Foods, Shipt for Target and Grubhub. I just need Trader Joe’s and the liquor store to deliver and My life will be complete!
6-I’m looking forward to to being home, holiday baking, holiday movies, warm cocktails and a long winters nap;)
7- We have a big family with too much risk to get everyone together. So will just be my husband, daughter, doggie and I at home this year. I’m actually really looking forward to a low key holiday!
Love all your amazing recipes, inspiring food styling and fun stories. Would love More pics of Colorado landscape… snow! and your moms Christmas Eve Death By Chocolate recipe please:)
Hi Ames! Ok wait… cloud fleece? What is that? I think I may need to get some haha! I love that you are enjoying all of the fall things! And I am glad you are looking forward to a low key holiday! I am sure it will be amazing with your daughter and husband! Thank you for sharing! xTieghan
1) Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
We’re in Minnesota, where it seems to have jumped from October to December overnight! We’re not planning on traveling anywhere soon, but once things clear up on the pandemic front, we’re hoping to visit my sister-in-law and her husband, who are currently living/working in London.
2) What’s making you the happiest this month?
Scented candles! Our house is mid-remodel (I mean, it has been for 10 years, but that doesn’t make it less stressful!) so it’s all about little things. 🙂
3) What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
I busted out all of my fall/ recipes lately – I was really tired of all my summer ones and needed something new! The most recent was chicken and dumplings, and a giant (and I MEAN giant) apple pie from the recipe in Smitten Kitchen’s first cookbook.
4) Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
My new Hydrow rower! I’ve always hated workout videos at home, but the rower is a whole different thing. I used to do Orangetheory, but of course the pandemic turned everything on its head, so I haven’t been able to get there with any regularity. So we invested in a Hydrow, because I prefer rowing to spinning/running, and I’m so glad we did.
5) What do you love most about fall?
Autumn is my favorite time. Its the way the light changes, and the colors, and that subtle bonfirey scent on the wind. Plus sweaters! It’s just the best.
6) What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Honestly, I still don’t know what the holidays are going to look like. I would say it’s the Christmas tree. I love waking up and coming upstairs to a dark house with a lit-up tree. It’s so magical.
7) Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
Not a clue. I expect it will be much smaller, but it’s hard to figure things out lately, you know?
These were fun to answer on a Monday – thanks Tieghan! I really enjoy your Nine Things posts every week. <3
Hi Monica! Aw that will be such a treat when you are finally able to visit your sister in law! Hopefully you are able to soon! Also, the hydrorow sounds super cool, I am glad you are able to have it at home to enjoy! Thank you so much for sharing, I hope you have an amazing week! xTieghan
Hi Tieghan, loved your Sunday post this week. In answer to your questions,
1) I am at home in Hampshire in the UK and am happy to stay put until it is safe to travel again.
2) At this time of year I love walking and seeing all the leaves on the trees changing colour. I am also enjoying cooking and baking quite a few of your recipes which both my partner and I love and I am also enjoying an online sugarcraft class where I am currently learning to make 18 different sugar flowers and foliage.
3) Favourite savoury recipe right now is the Brown butter Brussels sprouts and bacon fettuccine Alredo and favourite sweet recipe is the Glazed brown sugar maple cookies.
4) I have a couple of autumnal OPI nail varnishes that I love wearing at this time of year – Deutsch you want me baby and Black cherry chutney.
5) I am loving wearing fluffy socks again and snuggling up in cozy knits and fleece sweaters, as well as scented candles and cozy mugs of hot chocolate with marshmallows.
6) For the holidays I enjoy baking and decorating the annual Christmas cakes, as well as relaxing and spending time with friends and family.
7) We usually keep things small. My partner’s father joins us for a few days over the holidays and his cousin also comes over for a day. It’s great to catch up whilst enjoying some good food and playing board games.
An idea for one of your holiday blog posts, I would love some different ideas for table centre pieces / decorations please.
And finally I have a question for you. What is your favourite holiday decoration theme (i.e. winter wonderland, traditional red and green, etc.,)?
Hi Colleen! I am really glad you enjoyed this post! Ok so cool that you are doing an online sugarcraft class! I love that you are taking this time to learn some new skills! Also, the black cherry chutney color is so cute.. I may just have to get that one! I have also been into kind of a dark green this season! I hope you have an amazing week and an amazing holiday season, Colleen! If you do any cool cakes with the new skills I would love to see them! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
I am in snowy Colorado too! I am looking forward to a family road trip to Sedona though. I love it there, so pretty and relaxing.
What’s making you the happiest this month?
The pretty colored leaves! We missed them last fall due to an early snowstorm so I am soaking them up this year! Spending time with my family always makes me happy but I am just enjoying them so much.
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
I love cozy comfort food when it starts getting colder! I love your recipe for Coq au Vin Meatballs and so do my boys! A new favorite this year were the Pumpkin Butter Chocolate Chip cookies! And ALL the soups for me!
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
The Fall Farmhouse candle from Bath and Body Works. It smells SO delicious.
What do you love most about fall?
The cooler weather that allows me to snuggle up and wear ALL the fun boots! Cooking more warming and cozy foods. The smells and sights. And finally ALL the fun anticipatory holiday things!! It is truly my favorite time of year.
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
Making special treats for all my friends and family. Christmas music and decorating!
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
It is usually just my small, immediate family and will not change this year. We have so much fun though so I don’t feel like we miss out on anything!
Aw that sounds so amazing! And I am glad you are able to enjoy the leaves this year! It is so chilly though! I am loving all of the fall boots right now as well! What ones are you looking at? I hope you have a great week, Dannell! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
-I’m currently at home in Austin, Texas! In December I’ll actually be heading up your way to Colorado for a bachelorette party, the first plane ride I’ve taken since the start of this pandemic…taking all precautions and the bach party is a private cabin-in-the-woods affair, so I feel more comfortable and excited about it!
What’s making you the happiest this month?
-For some reason, so many people I love were born in October…so I’m loving celebrating them and recognizing how blessed I am by each of them!
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
-I made your gingery sweet potato stew the other night and it was perfect…and as for sweet, my mom sent me a batch of my favorite chocolate chip pecan cookies <3
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
-Trader Joes has surprisingly good candle scents, especially the Honeycrisp Apple which I've been burning constantly this time of year!
What do you love most about fall?
-It finallyyyyy gets cool enough to wear a sweater in Texas! (Or at least…think about the possibility of wearing a sweater without overheating, lol).
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
-My whole (immediate) family being together! My sister lives in Chicago and we don't get to see her as much, but we'll all be home for Thanksgiving!
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
-Smaller, just immediate family + significant others at my parent's house in San Antonio, Texas.
Hi Emily! Aw I love that you are able to get together and are being super safe about it! That will be really fun! I heard that Trader Joes has really good candles.. maybe I will have to go get some! Also, that is so nice that you will all be home for Thanksgiving! I hope you have an amazing week, Emily! xTieghan
These posts always make me so happy!
1. I’m in Maryland, just on the DC border. My husband is an airline pilot and we usually travel overseas a few times a year so it’s been hard not being able to travel! We aren’t going anywhere anytime soon but if I could, I’d go back to London (I lived there for a bit) and up to the English countryside or Portugal for at least a month!
2. Making me happiest – we’re in the middle of a kitchen renovation and my new range comes today!
3. Your apple butter blondies were phenomenal! When we finished them, my 2-year-old told me to “go blondie store RIGHT NOW” for more! Savory…potato leek soup!
4. I’m really loving Hello Fresh. Cooking 21 meals/week has been so hard while balancing work and childcare at home. The subscription service has helped eliminate some of my decision fatigue and gotten me to enjoy cooking and meal planning for the other days of the week again!
5. Fall is actually my least favorite season but I do love fall cooking and baking!
6. I’m looking forward to our first Christmas in our new home with our little girl who is just old enough, I think, to really enjoy Christmas morning! Christmas will be very quiet without family or travel this season but we’re hoping to make the most of it!
From you, I would love Thanksgiving ideas that are for a very small crowd (like 4 people small!)
Oh wow yes, those places both sound amazing! Also, so fun that you are redoing your kitchen! I hope everything goes just the way you imagined it!! Have the most amazing week, Christy! Thank you for sharing! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
I live in St. Louis, Missouri! I’m going to Nashville, TN in November for my birthday and I’m SO excited. I love Nashville and hope to go to Vanderbilt for college so I can live in my favorite city 🙂
What’s making you the happiest this month?
The weather and fall baking!! Nothing is better than pretty leaves, crisp fall air, and pumpkin everything.
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
Speaking of fall baking, YOUR CINNAMON SWIRL PUMPKIN BREAD. Oh my word. My family demolished it within three days, it was AMAZING! I’m also currently in love with your apple prosciutto chicken with cider pan sauce. I make it with homemade mashed potatoes. Yum!
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
My giant Sherpa jacket from Express… it is the coziest jacket I own and is sooo cozy for the chilly Missouri weather!
What do you love most about fall?
Everything ahh! It’s my absolute favorite season; my birthday is in November, I love all of the holidays and gatherings, the gorgeous weather and scenery, the delicious comfort food, cute fall fashion, just everything about it!
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
I’m so excited for Thanksgiving and Christmas, as always. I hope that the holiday season will bring back that sense of normalcy I think we’ve all missed out on a bit this year with COVID. We can all set aside the stress and tension and just enjoy family time, good food, and amazing tradition!
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
My family and I are keeping the same traditions we’ve always had for holidays… Family time is so important to us and we decided we aren’t going to sacrifice the joy and memories made in fear of COVID. I’m so happy we’re still going to have a holiday season!
Hi Sarah! Aw I am so glad you are getting to celebrate your birthday there! I hope you have an amazing time and stay safe!! Also Happy Birthday!! Have an amazing week and holiday season! xTieghan
We got a new kitten who is a bit of a teen kitten actually. Looking forward to attempting any or all of these recipes in my lifetime or to keep the apartment warm and cozy. Those maple cookies sound amazing. Maybe I can make some and ship them out of state or to everyone on my “list”…hmmm
Thank you so much Beth! I am really glad this recipe turned out so well for you! xTieghan
I’ve never written a comment on here before, but here goes!
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)? I’m in the UK – to be honest we’re hoping to go away somewhere in Europe during Easter, but trying not to get too excited just in case. The real plans are for next summer!
What’s making you the happiest this month? I’ve started working in paediatrics in the hospital, and it’s been absolutely wonderful. I’m really starting to think this might be the specialty for me.
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!! Savoury – a nice ramen or soup! Sweet – japanese cheescake – fluffy but filling 🙂
What do you love most about fall? I like the cosy weather, meaning we can all cover up in cosy jumpers and blankets.
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays? Cosy evenings inside with warm food and friends. We’ve been doing some
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller? Probably keeping things smaller, but we’ll make the most of seeing who we can 🙂
Hi Laura! First, thank you so much for answering and sharing with me! I hope you are able to travel somewhere close, safely of course! And Japanese cheesecake… should I make this?! Sounds so cool! Have an amazing week full of cozy sweaters and warm food! xTieghan
I know it’s late but I don’t care cos I LOVE Q&A’s
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)? I’m in Poland….and T-38 hours I FLY BACK TO CALIFORNIA FOR THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS <33333333
What’s making you the happiest this month? autumn, and the perspective of being so positively set on realising some old/overdue dreams back in the Bay
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!! sweet I just recently have done snickerdoodles sans cinnamon (not a fan) and savory idk…also just made fettucine alfredo with broccoli ? i love anything apple and hate pumpkin, soooo, much more on the sweet side 😛
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month? KLM AIRLINES FOR TAKING ME HOME SOON
What do you love most about fall? besides everything 😀 ? weather (i know, call me crazy) colours for sure, overall vibes
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays? living life to the fullest honestly
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller? probably small or (forgive my blasphemy) not at all…honestly contemplated blowing off to Mexico and never returning xD
Bonus Question: Is there anything you need from me this coming month? Tell me everything you want, I am open ears! I wanna meet you but let's be realistic 😀 if you're in Lake Tahoe tho….HMU <3
Hi Natala! Haha you’re definitely not too late! That is exciting you are going home! Do you live in California or Poland? Either way, super cool! And Mexico.. yes please! I would love to go there right now.. if it was safe haha! Thank you so much for sharing all of this with me, I hope you have an amazing week and safe trip home! xTieghan
Hi Tieghan! For some reason my browser doesn’t allow me to reply to your posts.
Since you asked about glögg after my comment, (and I love talking about it!): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gl%C3%B6gg
Everything you ever wanted to know about this delicious winter beverage.
It is often sold in the liquor shops in Scandinavia ready-made, and can be VERY sweet. It’s delicious, but I like a little less sugar, so I make my own by choosing a red wine base – now here’s where it gets interesting. The mulling spices do the talking so it’s actually ok to use a less bold wine, maybe even a rather insipid one…like a Merlot that’s not something you’d serve with a fancy dinner, but you can use for this purpose. If you have a “cheap” wine laying around that isn’t the best in your collection, it works great here, because it gets a makeover when being made into glögg.
You heat the wine on medium/low heat, but do not allow it to boil. Steep some spices in a tea ball, like cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, star anise, whole nutmeg and dried or candied ginger. Other common ingredients can include dried citrus peel from oranges or lemons. Just fill that tea ball with whatever seasonal spices you have on hand, or even dried currants and such. Once heated just below boiling, remove from heat and drink in a mug or tumbler made for hot cocktails. I like to give mine an extra kick by adding two shots of Cointreau per bottle of wine used – poured into the pot at the very end before serving. This adds a little sweetness, and an orange kick. In Sweden, we drop a few blanched almonds with some raisins into the mug and eat at the end of the drink. This is optional. I also like to use dried cranberry here as well.
Here in Sweden we typically start off the winter holiday or “jultid” with a “first advent glögg” normally at the beginning of December, when the glögg season starts. What’s not to love about that! It’s fun to have a small party with seasonal finger foods and appetizers and of course – glögg. My birthday falls at this time, so I look forward to it with childish enthusiasm starting in….oh…September. 😉 https://sweden.se/culture-traditions/advent/ There are also non alcohol varieties for kids or people who do not consume alcohol, but still like mulled wine.
If you google “homemade glögg” you will find a lot of fun ways to make your own. Would LOVE to see your twist on this either in the Saturday cocktail post, or some of your holiday posts… 😀
Wow that sounds so awesome! Thank you for sharing with me, Aline! Ill check out all of the links haha! xTieghan
Where are you currently at in the world? Anywhere you’re excited to travel to…soon(ish)?
I live in Pittsburgh, PA. I’m excited to book a vacation – next trip will be Portugal!
What’s making you the happiest this month?
I love boots and sweaters. I also love soup season.
What fall recipes are you loving most right now? Tell me one savory and one sweet!!
African Spice Lentil Soup and Apple Crisp
Name one product or service you’re loving most this month?
Hearth and Hand with Magnolia’s Harvest Candle – it smells like fall!
What do you love most about fall?
I love when the leaves are changing and going for a long drive with good conversation and/or great music.
What are you looking forward to the most for the upcoming holidays?
I love decorating for the holidays and finding special gifts for family and friends.
Are you going to be entertaining this holiday season or keeping things much smaller?
I am entertaining onThanksgiving for my family. Looking forward to putting together the menu – I want to make it different from last year’s.
Hi Nell! I love that you are going to Portugal! Do you already have the trip booked or are you holding off? Also, love that you are hosting this Thanksgiving, I hope it goes amazing for you! Have an amazing rest of your week! xTieghan
1. I am currently in the suburbs of Chicago, where I live. I’m super excited for my one and only trip of the year to Portland, Oregon to visit friends in November!
2. October is my favorite month (not only cause it’s birthday month), but like you, I am obsessed with all things fall/Halloween. The happiest thing for me is to drive down streets with lots of color changed leaves!
3. My favorite savory recipe right now is soup, super excited to try your tortellini soup. Sweet would likely be apple cider donuts — made my first batch this year!
4. To be honest, Spotify has been keeping me going with all the great playlists when stuck working from home.
5. EVERYTHING! Colors changing, crisp air, pumpkin patches, apple orchards, donuts, cider, baking, Hallmark fall movies, and getting cozy with throws, sweaters, and candles.
6. Spending more time with my newborn nephew.
7. This one hits hard — we’ve had a tradition for several years with seven families that get together for all the holidays. But too many people, so doing a smaller gathering for these holidays. Hoping to make the most of it.
I hope your holidays are great too!
Hi Aayushi! I am glad you are excited to visit your friends soon! I hope you have an amazing trip and stay safe traveling! I love that you love fall as well and are excited for all of the things! YES! Thank you so much for sharing! xTieghan
I’m asking for new cookware for Christmas. Do you have any recommendations?
I already have cast iron.
Thanks!
Hi Kathy! I would definitely go with anything Staub haha. What kinds do you already have? I have a bunch of my favorite kitchen items linked under the kitchen shop page on my site as well! I will leave it below! xTieghan
https://dev.halfbakedharvest.com/shop/kitchen/