Coming up with New Year’s Eve party ideas is a lot easier than you think
Whether you stay up until midnight (or 9 EST) to watch the ball drop or decide to do a Noon Year’s Eve thing, you can still host a memorable New Year’s Eve Party for kids. From easy appetizers to creating their own countdown and making confetti poppers, there are dozens of ways to make the last day of the year one they’ll never forget. We’ve got the best New Year’s Eve party ideas perfect for celebrating at home.
If your kids won’t make it to midnight, why not host a mock countdown before bedtime? There are dozens of videos available online where they can watch the ball drop (even if it’s last year!) and if you shout “Happy New Year” before the clock strikes 12, it will still be a stand-out celebration for them!
Another good New Year's Eve party idea is to host a good, old-fashioned pajama party with friends or just your family! Pile the living room high with sleeping bags, pillows, and blankets (props if you opt for a fort!), wear your coziest PJs, and camp out to watch the ball drop and the new year begin.
4. Dress to the Nines
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If a PJ party won't do the trick, host a formal affair in honor of the new year and let your littles don old dresses, jackets, gloves, bow ties, boas, and the like. Serve sparkling cider in fancy flutes, petite appetizers, and of course, a New Year’s cake!
5. Have a Cookie Encounter
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Break out the sugar and flour and let your kids pick their favorite cookie recipe to bake. If you want to try something different this year, check out our favorite holiday cookie recipes.
Why watch the big event on TV when you can host your own? Create your own sparkling ball with a balloon or even piñata and lower it at midnight (or at any time of day if your littles can't stay up that late!). Your kids will love counting down in your own home—and bonus if the piñata ball drops prizes or treats!
You wouldn’t believe the amount of glow stick apparel out there! There is everything from necklaces to bracelets and glasses, and they all make a serious statement in the dark or in the backyard when you’re ringing in the new year. Check out our other glowingly good ideas here.
Poppers, pots and pans, confetti-filled balloons, you name it! Put together DIY noise-making machines to set off at midnight (or 8 PM, we won't tell!). These DIY Easy Confetti Poppers made from toilet paper rolls and construction paper are the perfect New Year's Eve party idea for younger kids.
Whether it's just you and the kids or if you're having a gathering, make a trip to the party store to pick out a wig for the big event! Kids will love taking on a new look for the night.
Blow up several balloons with the hours left until the new year written on them (IE. Five Hours to Go, Four Hours to Go) and let your kids take turns popping them as each hour passes.
When the clock strikes 12, we'll be toasting our bubbly flutes, so let the kids join in and put a spin on things! Pour sparkling cider for the petite partiers and get ready to toast—with toast! Let your kids nibble on their favorite toasts, everything from peanut butter and jelly to Nutella or even cheese! They'll have fun putting together these easy snacks and raising a slice to the new year!
A fun and noisy craft for kids, these New Year’s bells from Paging Supermomare pure genius. Pick up silver bells, golden yarn, and cool wrapping paper, and your party guests will be jingle-jangling in no time.
Your revelers will most definitely be tooting their own horns if they're edible! Only a little messy and way tasty, these tasty treats create a real sound machine when you nibble off the end of the cone.
Drum up a little luck for the New Year. Kiddos will love the thumping sounds made by this clever craft. What’s it gonna take to make one? Glitter glue, stamp paint, star, and letter stickers. Don't forget to make a wish. Find out more from No Time for Flashcards.
15. Say Cheese!
Kelly Aiglon
Capture the moment with a DIY photo booth. This is where all those silly wigs and fancy dresses will have their chance to shine!
One of our favorite New Year's Eve party ideas is to make your own confetti to toss when it is time to celebrate! Cut whatever paper you'd like into strips, then cut the strips into squares. Of course, tossing confetti makes a mess, but the kids will love using those paper squares to make art collages later on.
There are plenty of pre-made and themed Advent calendars for everyone. From Harry Potter collectibles and LEGO bricks to spa products and gourmet chocolate, we’ve rounded up the best countdown calendars of the season that will get kids (and parents!) in the spirit in no time.
Best Advent Calendars for LEGO-Lovers
LEGO City Advent Calendar
Santa with his sack of toys and Mrs. Claus on a snowboard are just two of the treasures you’ll find in this Advent calendar for little LEGO lovers.
This fun set includes minifigs of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Draco Malfoy, Aberforth Dumbledore, and Madam Rosmerta, plus iconic items from the Harry Potter movies.
Count down to Christmas with your favorite Star Wars characters. This fun Advent calendar includes LEGO Emperor Palpatine, an Ewok and a Pit Droid in holiday outfits, a Gonk Droid dressed as a reindeer, Omega with a sled, a 212th Clone Trooper, B-1 Battle Droid, and Princess Leia.
Your little builders will love unwrapping this fun set that will let them engineer a winter wonderland complete with lights, a motorized sled hill, and an ice rink.
Calling all animal lovers! This unique set lets your kids make their Advent calendar with stickers, markers, and miniature exotic animals from around the world! The set contains 24 surprise items including wild animals from all the continents. Fill each box per the included instructions or get creative and decide for yourself what to put inside. Then, decorate the set with the included stickers and personalize it with your child’s name.
The fun never ends with this buildable train station calendar. Once opened, kids can put together wooden railway tracks, wooden trains, 3 figures (Station master, Passenger, Santa), a wooden snowman, a wooden Christmas tree, a wooden gift pack, 3 plastic traffic marks, a plastic bridge, a plastic connection, plastic bag, and 1 station master traffic sign. Then just unfold the box, which transforms into a Christmas scene.
This seasonal day-by-day craft kit lets your kids unbox and make 24 seasonal crafts they can use as ornaments to hang on the tree. From beaded candy canes to yarn pom-poms, and cardboard reindeer to no-sew stockings—makers ages nine and up will be able to do all of these projects on their own (and younger artists can do it all with parental supervision).
Each day in this set will bring a new character that you can build from Santa and the reindeer to Frosty and friends. When the holidays are over, take them apart and make new creations!
Car-crazed kids will want to tear through this Advent calendar containing 25 days’ worth of “Vroom Vroom” fun, including 14 Micro Machine mini vehicles and 11 accessories. There’s also a racetrack to put together, so little drivers will have a place to race. The 2″ Micro Machines figures include cars, a plane, trucks, and more.
Sugarfina’s candy is sweet enough for the kids but unique enough in its flavors that grown-ups will want to get a taste, too! The gourmet candy company’s Gingerbread House Advent Calendar offers a 24-day tasting of the candy company’s gourmet candy collection, with a fun array of offerings from holiday presents, Heavenly Sours, Christmas Trees, Snowman Gummies, Walk of Fame Stars, and many more.
If your kids love chocolate, this calendar has 24 days of pre-wrapped melt-in-your-mouth milk chocolate by the Italian confectionery company Ferrero. The only downside? There’s just one piece per day, so an extra calendar may just come in handy.
Mini Brands take all the things kids love—toys and snacks—and make them super-small for collecting and trading! They’ll be delighted to open up mini cans of Pringles and ramen every day during Advent.
You’ll get a number of Elf on the Shefl characters and Elf Pets in this fun set that’s sure to get you in the holiday spirit. There’s even a fun racetrack to get everyone zooming around town.
PLAYMOBIL Magic Bathtime Fun Mermaids Advent Calendar
Perfect for toddlers, this splashtastic Advent calendar makes bath time fun. Once all the doors have been opened, your kids will have tons of mermaids, marine animals, and more to create all sorts of water adventures.
Paw Patrol is on a roll with this adorable Advent calendar filled with collectible dogs from the beloved show. Kids will be able to unbox a different character and accessory each day, with all of their favorite pups represented—plus extras to help with the storytelling, including animal friends and accessories.
Truth: Kids who love Play-Doh can’t get enough of the squishy stuff. This Advent calendar offers a standalone tub plus fun accessories (like tools, cutters, and accessories) for each of the 24 days before Christmas. The box also has tear-off play mats with snowman and gingerbread scenes so kids can use their imaginations to create wintery stories or enhance the scenes.
It’s Happy Christmas with this Funko Pop! calendar. Coming with 24 characters maxing out at 1.87 inches tall, this Harry Potter-themed Advent comes with plenty of Pocket Pops to complete your collection.
National Geographic Rocks, Minerals & Fossils Advent Calendar
Help your kid be a bonafide rock star with this advent calendar that offers a different rock, mineral, or fossil every day. The polished specimens include geode; pyrite, blue and rose quartz; tiger’s eye; brachiopod, and more. The final day’s treasure is a stunning rose quartz specimen that kids will dig out of a brick. Dig tool, brush, magnifying glass, and collector’s bag included, plus an illustrated gallery that identifies and describes each specimen.
Make every night in December Game Night! This Advent calendar lets you unbox a different family game for each of the 24 days leading up to Christmas. The collection includes dice games such as Farkle and Yatzy; party games such as Truth or Dare, Balloon Volleyball, and Tag-in-the-Dark; nostalgic games such as Marbles and Pick-up Sticks; brain teasers such as “Find It” and Tangram; and classics such as Dominoes, Tic-Tac-Toe, and War.
This pocket Advent calendar will quickly become a family tradition. Crafty parents will love filling it with tiny treats, family activities, and holiday toys.
Your family can travel this holiday season with this fun kit that brings you to a new country each day. Kids will love meeting a buddy who lives in that country and learning about holiday traditions all over the world.
Williams-Sonoma 24 Days of Baking Cookies Advent Calendar
This Advent calendar is a fun way to get your family baking this holiday season as it’s full of all the tools you’ll need to craft cookies, cakes, and pies. From cookie cutters to spatulas, piping bags, gift bags, decorating tips, and more, the goodies are guaranteed to inspire.
This set of tiny spreads and honey has a cult following and we can see why. Who doesn’t love tiny jars of jams and jellies to start off your mornings during the holiday season?
Vinebox’s wine advent calendar is back! Choose from two collections or get both for 24 nights of wine. The Cozy Collection features 12 delicious reds curated for fireplace chats and wool blankets. The Chill Collection includes a delightful mix of rich whites, invigorating rosés, and even a few chillable reds.
This year the KORRES Advent calendar is inspired by Greek tradition and features designs from the collection of the Benaki Museum. You’ll get 24 products for your skin, body, and hair.
Choose between 12-day and 24-day Advent calendars and you’ll get a pot of tea to enjoy each day. It’s a great way to kick off the busy mornings. This cute Advent calendar is reusable for next year which we love!
This garden-themed Advent calendar comes with 24 exquisitely handcrafted chocolates, made from ripe succulent flavors from California’s bountiful orchards. They’re almost too pretty to eat!
What dad doesn’t need a nice new pair of funky socks? Papa will be keeping his tootsies toasty all month long with this colorful advent calendar that gifts him a new pair of Happy Socks every day for 24 days. The box comes with a mix of holiday socks, dotted socks, striped socks—and a slew of others that are supposed to be a surprise.
Welcome in the holidays with a warm cup of joe! Bean Box’s Advent calendar comes with 12 limited-edition 2023 Holiday Blends that brew four to six mugs each. Choose from whole bean or blended, and then enjoy specialty coffee the whole season.
If you’d like to have a full holiday season of reds, whites, rosés, and bubblies, the WSJ Wines of the World Advent Calendar is perfect for sharing. Plus, the sweet nostalgic design and beautiful bottles make this one extra-special.
Why should your dog have to watch while you and the kids have all the fun? This adorably-designed Advent calendar comes with 24 treats your pup will love. You’ll get 4 gourmet dog macarons, 12 bone treats, and 8 truffles—all Fido-friendly, of course.
Meow! Treat your fur baby with this fun calendar for the holidays. It comes with 16 3 oz. Fancy Feast Gourmet Wet Cat Food, four Savory Cravings Cat Treat boxes, two broths, and two savory purees.
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Some of the best Amazon products don’t cost an arm and leg
The only thing better than avoiding a shopping trip with kids in tow is scoring an amazing deal. Thanks to Amazon, you can have both. We discovered the best Amazon products and deals right now (most of them are $5 or less!) that will not only make your life easier but will save you money, too. Now that’s a win. And many of them aren’t even discounted for Prime Day, meaning you’ll be able to take advantage of these deals whenever you need to rebuy.
In the market for kitchen supplies? We’ve got them. Budget beauty goodies? Found those, too. Not sure what? Just scroll our list to find some of the best Amazon products that are so wallet-friendly, you won’t even feel guilty for filling your cart (not that you ever should. But just in case.). Plus, there are several products you can set up subscriptions for and they’ll automatically shipped at an even larger discount. Saving time? Check. Saving money? Check. Check out some of the best and most affordable Amazon items we’re filling our carts with.
This viral lip color has a cult following (thanks to it's neutral-pink hue that's universally flattering and non-sticky formula). Get NYX's Vanilla Cream Pie Butter Gloss for less than $5.
Whether it's hot out (hello, sandals) or cold (dry heel skin catching on your socks—shudder), keeping your feet soft and smooth with these pumice stones is really easy.
It's easy to keep your chips, cookies, and any other edibles fresh! All you have to do is heat the sealer and run it across the top of the bag for an airtight seal.
Your partner wants to hit the hay, but you've just gotten to the good part of the book. Simply pull out this clip-on light, and everyone wins. It's also great for traveling!
How's this for a genius cleaning tool? You can use them on baseboards, and the little brush works wonders in door, window and shower tracks, in corners, and much more. Plus, check out the tiny dust pan.
With plastic straw bans steadily growing across the globe, you won't want to leave home without your reusable straws. With these, you can keep a set at home and put a set in your bag for when you're out and about.
These labels can be used on everything from mason jars to wine glasses, and as a bonus, they're reusable! Kitchen organization has never been this easy.
This handy stuff comes in seven colors and immediately bonds to nylon, mesh, vinyl, rubber and plastic, which is ideal for repairing items like tents, jackets, sleeping bags, water bottles and more. Be sure to pack a roll for your next camping trip.
—Shahrzad Warkentin, Karly Wood, & Kate Cartia
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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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!).
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!
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.
Wondering how to make hot chocolate bombs? It’s easier than you think
One of the best things about the colder months is settling in with a cup of hot cocoa. Rather than waste your tastebuds on a packet of instant mix, why not whip up a batch of something sweeter? Hot chocolate bombs can be made into all sorts of shapes, sizes, and all sorts of flavors, and fillings. Basically, it’s the sweetest afternoon activity. If you’d rather go with a traditional cup of hot chocolate, try these unique recipes!
Want to start with your basic, delicious hot chocolate bomb? Here's your recipe! It takes just three ingredients and a silicone mold to get your hot cocoa skills moving.
No need to buy an extra mold when you use this recipe that repurposes that silicone egg mold you have lying around! Grab your hot cocoa powder, marshmallows, and all the fixings you like in your hot chocolate and you have everything you need to make homemade cocoa bombs.
These magical treats are almost too pretty to eat. Using some creative icing decorations, unicorn hot cocoa bombs make the perfect treat at a little girl's party or as a gift!
Candy melts are the key to making your own LEGO man hot cocoa bombs. These sweet-tasting treats can be complimented with any number of fillings, especially tons of marshmallows!
You can stop looking for a Valentine's Dessert recipe! This adorably pink hot cocoa bomb is kid-friendly, doesn't require sealing two halves together, and uses your Instant Pot!
Snickerdoodle lovers: you're gonna want this recipe. White chocolate, cinnamon, and sugar come together that will not only have you gulping down the entire mug but maybe dipping a cookie in, too.
You won't want to let this recipe go. Frozen hot cocoa bombs are beautifully blue from candy melts that make the entire process a breeze. These are definitely Elsa-approved.
Calling all PB lovers! This decadent dessert pairs the world's best creations: peanut butter and chocolate with a simple process using just your microwave.
Need a little extra kick of cocoa? This four-ingredient recipe is easy to whip up and store in the freezer! When you're having a chocolate craving, just pop in your mug!
Impress your kids and all the guests at your Halloween party with these spooky, delicious, and creative treats
If you’ve already sorted out your crew’s costumes and carved up your pumpkin, and you’ve still got time, how about crafting up a few easy Halloween treats? We’ve got all the goodies (and even Halloween-themed dinners) for kids you could ever want, from healthy(ish) picks to snacks inspired by creepy crawlers.
Whole Wheat Black Cat Cookies. How cute are these kitty cookies from A Taste of Madness? You don’t need special cookie cutters to make them, and the kiddos can help top them off with adorable candy corn eyes. Using wheat flour helps make them a little more wholesome than your average dessert, too. Black Cat Oreo Treats. These treats from Moments with Mandi are sure to impress your little ones—they’re (almost) too cute to eat. We love the wide eyes drawn on the chocolate candies and the chocolate chip “ears.” Classic Betty Crocker Black Cat. Your kittens will go crazy for this delish cake from Betty Crocker. No fancy pans are required for this one—just round cake pans and a bit of clever cutting to make the cat shape. Topped off with licorice whiskers, it’ll be just as tasty as it looks.
Black Cat Cutout Cookies. For an easy but delicious treat, make these cutout cats from Cinnamon Girl. The recipe is pretty straightforward, and you can let your little sous chefs dot on watchful eyes once the cookies have cooled.
Mummy Madeleines. These Madeleine Mummies and Minions look like you slaved away in the kitchen, but they're fuss free. Just put some white frosting in a piping bag with a cross-hatch tip, then make lines or zigzags before popping on some candy eyes and sprinkles. We tend to love these soft and fluffy traditional or pumpkin spice Madeleines from Sugar Bowl Bakery.
Mummified Oreos. How Does She serves up a spooktacular assortment of haunted treats, including to-die-for Mummy Oreo Suckers. And think about it: If you can make Oreos into something cute, what other cookies can you transform? Halloweeño Jalapeño Popper Mummies. If you’re a fan of spice, this hot idea from The Hopeless Housewife is sure to startle your taste buds. Terrifyingly simple to bake, these Jalapeño Popper Mummies make a great savory appetizer for your Halloween bash.
Mummy Pretzels. This salty, sweet, and spooky treat is scarily simple to make. The most difficult step according to Simply Being Mommy is waiting for the chocolate to cool and harden before eating!
Witch Hat Cookies. This super easy recipe from Princess Pinky Girl results in adorable witch hat treats in no time flat. Gather up Oreos and chocolate kisses plus a few other ingredients for this party-ready dessert.
Witch Guacamole Dip. Bright green guacamole glows from underneath a tortilla chip hat in Spicy Southern Kitchen’s Witch Guacamole. Mash up some avocados or grab your fave store-bought guac as the base for this healthy Halloween treat. Butterscotch Brooms. Every witch needs her broom, so you’ve got to whip up some cute broomsticks inspired by From Calculus to Cupcakes. They’re super quick to throw together, and they hit the perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Deathly Chocolate Graveyard Cakes. We think this spooktastic dessert from Half Baked Harvest is genius. With gravestones made out of brownies and witch legs made out of rolled wafer cookies, decorating them is half the fun.
Mousse Made Easy. Looking for a kid-approved party dessert that won’t scare away adults? Like a light, fluffy piece of pumpkin pie without the crust, this pumpkin mousse from Super Healthy Kids uses only six simple ingredients. Prep it in advance and make the most of your time with guests.
Awesome Apple Cupcakes. Love the taste of old-fashioned Halloween treats? Take a trip down memory lane with luscious fall flavors of apple and cinnamon. These beautiful cupcakes from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free will remind you of the sweet caramel apples of your youth without too much of the sticky stuff.
Not-So-Basic Bark. Turn after-school grumps into giggly ghouls with this super-cute candy bark from Fork and Beans. Vegan and gluten-free with no icky preservatives, you’ll love getting your (somewhat healthy) chocolate fix. It’ll take a few steps to get to the finished product, but we promise this bark will make you want to take a big bite.
Monster Sandwiches. What's a monster mash without monster sandwiches? This idea from My Own Road is an easy way to ensure that there's hearty food on your Halloween menu—you know, before the giant sugar rush. Plus, it's a cinch to customize these mini monster sandwiches with your fam's fave deli meat and fillings.
Halloween-Themed Sushi Balls. These adorable Halloween-themed sushi balls from Chopstick Chronicles are fairly easy to make, and you can change up the ingredients according to your little monster's palate. Put a bunch together as a main dish or spread them around as creepy little sides.
Frozen BOO-nana Ghosts. These ghost-shaped boo-nana popsicles are a fun treat the kids will love making as much as eating. Erin Clarke at Well Plated takes the healthy route and dips the banana shapes into vanilla yogurt rather than white chocolate—and you can turn these treats into mummies with a bit of peanut butter, caramel or nut butter, and coconut sugar.
Hooting Owls. Not as spooky as ghosts and gravestones but how can you resist these delicious Halloween owls? Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on crackers and add sliced and whole almonds for this nocturnal nibble from Charity Mathews at Foodlets.
Spider Cake Pops. One bite of these creepy crawly cake pops and you might understand why the old lady swallowed the spider. Wriggle over to Bakerella to learn to make these eerily delicious arachnids. Hint: The placement is all about timing.
Dirt and Worms Pudding Cups. We dig this easy-to-make dessert from Like Mother Like Daughter. Great for serving the kids at your Halloween party, they’re also fun for spring and Earth Day, too.
Creepy Corn Dog Centipedes. Hungry Happenings transformed ordinary mini corn dogs into a Halloween centipede, complete with ketchup eyes. If your kids like creepy crawlers and enjoy playing with their food, this might be the snack for you.
Jello Worms. Mel’s Kitchen Cafe used straws and a package of gelatin to make this squirmy Halloween treat. While they might gross out older ghosts, these squiggly creatures are sure to be a hit with your little goblins, and they’re super easy to make.
Chocolate Monster Cookies. We’d welcome these monster cookies from Self Proclaimed Foodie to any Halloween party. The secret lies in the edible googly eyes—but don’t forget the perfect chocolate chip cookies and chocolate ganache.
S’more Monsters. What’s better than s’mores? S’mores that look like monsters! You won’t need a campfire to create this delicious Halloween-themed treat from Jodi Levine over at Say Yes, but you will need cookies, marshmallows, and little helping hands.
Dangerous Donuts. Donuts get a monstrous makeover with this snack from A Spicy Perspective that the little ones will go crazy for. Either make ahead for your guests or lay out the supplies and let the kids take creative control. You’ll need some plastic vampire fangs, sprinkles, and you guessed it… candy eyes.
Chocolate Monster Pops. You’ll have plenty of little monsters gathering around a batch of these chocolate Frankensteins from Handmade Charlotte. The supplies include basic baking stuff: chocolate bars, coconut, and icing. We are especially zinging with delight over the Hershey Kiss neck bolts.
Brownie Bites with Fondant Ghosts. Need a last-minute Halloween treat? We love these adorable desserts from Sugar Bowl Bakery that use store-bought brownie bites and small pieces of fondant to create the perfect, non-scary ghost friend.
3-Ingredient Easy Ghost Cookies. The only thing scary about these cookies from Butter with a Side of Bread is how easy they are to make. All you need are Milano cookies, white chocolate, and small chocolate chips to whip up these friendly, Casper-style sweets.
Ghosts in the Graveyard Dessert Shooters. Don't worry, these alcohol-free treats from Sugarspun Run are for everyone! Think OREO dirt cup with a marshmallow ghost that is fun and easy to make.
Frightfully Easy Halloween Cupcake Treats
Christal Yuen
Ghoulish Graveyard.What you'll need: crumbled chocolate wafers, pumpkin-shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers, and chocolate frosting. What to do: After covering the chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting, crush chocolate wafers and sprinkle them over the frosting as "dirt." Set a pumpkin-shaped candy corn on top and write "RIP" on the vanilla wafer before planting it in the "graveyard."
Wicked Witch.What you'll need: green icing, one straw cut in half, and gum drops. What to do: Frost your cupcake in plenty of bright green frosting. Snip your straw in half, and slice a red gum drop down the center, so you have two identical halves (and a pair of ruby slippers). Stick one to each end of the straws and lay the "legs" on your serving platter. Now lay your cupcake house upside down on top of the legs. We can almost hear Dorothy trotting away in glee.
Not-So-Scary Mummy.What you'll need: Mini M&Ms and white frosting. What to do: Using a piping bag (either store-bought or DIY), place lines across your cupcake to form your mummy's bandages and then two affix candy eyes.
Caught in a Spiderweb. What you'll need: White frosting and black gel icing. What to do: After frosting the cupcake in white, use your gel icing to make three concentric circles on top. Take a toothpick and, starting in the center, drag the toothpick through the icing to the edge (imagine slicing a pizza) to create the spooky spiderweb effect.
Laughter is the best medicine for what ails you—kids
Parenting memes are the antidote for a tough day (or even an average one), and we’re betting there are a few out there you can really relate to. From “Yes! This happened to me five minutes ago!” to out-and-out guffaws because it happens every night, give yourself five minutes (lock yourself in the bathroom if necessary) and give yourself a good laugh over these hysterical mom memes.
Summer sun means ice cream fun! If you want an afternoon of deliciousness, you can’t top an ice cream sundae bar. With creative cones, tasty toppings, and whimsical decorations, it’s enough to make anyone scream for ice cream. We’ve got the scoop on ice cream bar ideas that include homemade sundae cups, creative displays, and even homemade ice cream that you’ll love.
Say goodbye to regular old bowls forever. These are made with classic ingredients and shaped using a muffin tin. Get all the details and the full recipe here!
Mini Ice Cream Sandwich Pops
The Girl Inspired
Store-bought sandwiches never looked so cute! These easy-to-make pops are perfect for little hands, easy to customize with any type of sprinkles, and make a great option for a party for little ones. Get the easy instructions over at The Girl Inspired.
Did you know you can make your own version of this classic ice cream topping right at home? You can, and even better, you can add extra goodies, like Heath Bar. See above!
What’s more fun to eat than ice cream? An ice cream sandwich! Offer a selection of ice cream flavors, a variety of cookies, sprinkles, and mini chocolate chips. Let guests choose their adventure!
If you’ve got one of these collecting dust in your cabinet, bring it out and use it to create more space on your ice cream bar. Plus, it’ll make you look fancy.
Adding a simple sign to your display makes the event a bit sweeter, don’t you think?
Scoop Ahead of Time
Kojo Designs
We’re always on the hunt for hints to make our parties look a little more seamless. This clever tip comes from Kojo Designs. Scoop your ice cream in advance and put it back in the freezer until it’s party time. It makes for a delectable display, and you’ll get to spend time with your guests rather than with the ice cream scoop.
Keep It Simple
Steve Shreve via Unsplash
If you love the whole “ice cream bar” idea, but it seems a tad unrealistic to you, especially on a hot day, try a very simple method. Set out your cones and anything non-perishable in advance, then just before your party peoples are ready for their treats, keep the ice cream in its pints and set it in a bowl of ice. Make tiny labels to make it look chic—they can have the flavors of the ice cream or just simple words, like “celebrate.”
While we don’t recommend quitting your day job and taking these corny jokes on the road (do people still throw rotten tomatoes?), we do promise that if delivered with enough enthusiasm—or by an undeniably cute kid—these cheesy jokes will get some chuckles. And, when you’re done with these, be sure to share our favorite knock-knock jokes, summer jokes, funny dad jokes, and our ultimate list of jokes for kids that are always good for a laugh.
Q: Why did the cookie go to the hospital?
A: Because he felt crummy.
Q: Why did Johnny throw the clock out of the window?
A: Because he wanted to see time fly!
Q: Why was the baby strawberry crying?
A: Because his mom and dad were in a jam.
Knock, knock
Who’s there? Theodore
Theodore who? Theodore wasn’t open so I knocked.
Q: What do lawyers wear to court?
A: Lawsuits
Q: What did one toilet say to the other toilet?
A: You look flushed.
Q: Why is there a gate around cemeteries?
A: Because people are dying to get in!
Knock, knock
Who’s there?
Cows go Cows go who?
No silly, cows go MOO.
Q: Why wouldn’t the shrimp share his treasure?
A: Because he was a little shellfish.
Q: What has one head, one foot, and four legs?
A: A Bed
Q: What do you call an angry carrot?
A: A steamed veggie.
Q: What do you call a fake noodle?
A: An impasta.
Knock, knock
Who’s there? Little old lady
Little old lady who? I didn’t know you could yodel.
Q: Why shouldn’t you write with a broken pencil?
A: Because it’s pointless.
Q: Why did the man put his money in the freezer?
A: He wanted cold hard cash!
Q: What do call cheese that isn’t yours?
A: Nacho Cheese
Step outside the box (of cake mix) and make one of these show-stopping treats for your kiddo’s next big bash
We get it—sometimes cake doesn’t cut it. If you’re looking for the perfect unique birthday dessert, we’ve found 25 show-stopping birthday dessert alternatives that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From ice cream to cookies, there’s something here to make your celebration extra special. Don’t forget the party favors!
They love ice cream and french fries, so it’s not too much of a stretch to say they’ll probably go nuts for fried ice cream. Add a little fudge and whipped cream, and it’s birthday dessert heaven. Get the recipe from Six Sisters Stuff.
We dare you to find a more cheerful cookie than these sugar masterpieces from The View from Great Island. They’re perfectly festive for any birthday soiree, and a cinch to whip up. Use a whole assortment of sprinkles or customize the colors for your tot!
Is there anything better than the cinnamon-sugar goodness of a county fair churro? For those looking to recreate this particular magic at home, we present this recipe from Peanut Butter & Peppers. The secret here is that the churros are baked, not fried—which means they have all the sweet, doughy crunch you expect but you can skip the greasy frying.
Because cones are so ordinary, right? Up the ice cream sundae bar game by opting for a super sweet bowl the gang can eat: these mini brownie bowls from Life Love Liz are perfect because you can serve them warm or cooled down, depending on how much time you have before you need them.
Why do unicorn cake when you can serve up unicorn-themed sundaes? The best part about this amazing treat from Dawn at Cutefetti is her low-cal version that still has all the whimsy and the taste.
These popular French cookies can be made in a variety of colors and flavors and have an extra-festive birthday appeal—plus it's easy to portion control sugar intake for the younger kids. While they can be a bit challenging to make for the novice baker, Sally's Bakings Addiction has a step-by-step tutorial that just might help you win this whimsical dessert. If you're not feeling up to it, patisseries across the country sell these delectables. You can also order up a batch from [ma-ka-rohn] where you'll also find gluten-free varieties. They ship across the US.
Brownies go sophisticated with this fun recipe from The Cookful. Just whip up a batch using your favorite recipe (or a boxed mix), and dip them into a simple ganache to up the fancy factor.
Do not be surprised if these funfetti-filled donuts become a new birthday tradition. They’re simple to make and super colorful. They’re also perfect for a crowd. Don’t forget the glaze! Get the recipe from If You Give a Blonde a Kitchen.
Are you a fan of flan? How about the creamy goodness of cheesecake? You can have ‘em both with this recipe from A Little Yumminess. It’s more firm than flan and lighter than cheesecake—perfect for a birthday cake alternative that’s a little outside the box. Click here for the how-to!
It’s easy to add cannoli to your birthday party lineup with this genius idea from Hungry Gems. Picture it: smooth ricotta, vanilla paste speckles, and fluffy sugar. Don’t forget the colorful sprinkles for that extra special touch!
Nutella Whoopie Pie
When a dessert has “whoopie” right in the title, you know it’s a reason to celebrate. These delish, unique birthday desserts have a hint of orange, a whole lot of Nutella, and are just the thing to amp up a birthday party. (Psst! They also make great gifts!) Score the recipe by clicking here.
Give your usual birthday dessert a flip with this sweet idea from Averie Cooks: pancakes! These phenomenal flapjacks are bursting with sprinkles, topped with strawberries, and the perfect way to begin or end a birthday.
Ice Cream Tacos
A Subtle Revelry
Who says tacos have to be savory? Check out how A Subtle Revelry puts them together (And if you're looking for more dessert taco ideas, we've got them).
We love these adorable pops from Tast-e, and not just because they look like something that belongs in a cotton candy castle. They’re just as easy to whip up as your run-of-the-mill rice krispie treats, and the little ones are sure to gobble them up.
These may look like boardwalk-style chocolate-dipped cones, but don't be fooled—they're cupcakes! The Flair Exchange shows how to bake the cupcakes right into the ice cream cones and dip them in a chocolate shell topping.
Around My Family Table's great idea combines all the best parts of a banana split into a cute mason jar, making it the perfect individual treat for kids. Layer up graham cracker crumbs, different types of ice cream, and fruit toppings for a unique birthday dessert that rocks.
We’re obsessed with these yummy ice cream cake pops from Better Recipes—and they’re easier to make than normal cake pops. Just scoop mini portions of ice cream, then roll them in your favorite cake flavors.
Oreo lovers will go crazy for these ice cream sandwiches with a twist from Frosting and a Smile. You can customize the toppings based on taste or to match the party's theme—either way, your guests will gobble 'em up.
Combine your kid’s two favorite things—pizza and cookies—and you’ll get this insanely delicious dessert from Amuse Your Bouche. This version is topped with marshmallow fluff, Oreos and chocolate, but you can get creative topping it with your favorite sweets and fruits.
These ice cream bars from Half Baked Harvest are a step above your usual picks from the ice cream truck. Customize them with Oreos, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and nuts—the sky's the limit. This unique birthday dessert can be made ahead of time or little chefs can get involved in topping their creations themselves.
For a birthday-appropriate twist on popsicles, try this clever idea from Unusually Lovely. It’s super easy to whip up with the help of cake mix, rainbow sprinkles, and heavy cream.
This unique birthday dessert from Mooshu Jenne is perfect for an outdoor party. Layer chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and crushed chocolate cookies for "dirt" that's sure to be delicious.
Guests of all ages will be wowed by this impressive cake from Lauren's Latest. It's pretty easy to throw together using Oreo cookies, chocolate ice cream, and a seriously delicious peanut butter caramel sauce.
Turn your kid's favorite cookie into this colorful truffle bark from A BaJillian Recipes. This would also work perfectly as a take-home treat for goodie bags.
