Thanksgiving Archives - A Season to Smile

Easy Appetizer with Pear, Pomegranate, Goat Cheese and More

by Angela at A Season to Smile | Nov 13, 2023 | Christmas, Fall, Holidays/Occasions, New Years, Recipes, Thanksgiving, Winter

This easy appetizer is perfect for your next party or gathering with juicy pear, pomegranate, creamy goat cheese, sweet honey, and candied nuts.

Prepared easy appetizer with pear slice, topped with goat cheese, pomegranate, candied pecan and honey.

This easy appetizer is absolutely delicious with its sweet and juicy pear and delightful toppings. The pleasant combination of ingredients makes this recipe quite tasty with great texture. It has so much going for it, so come with me and I’ll show you why you’ll love it, what’s in it, how to make it and more!

Why You’ll Love this Pear Appetizer

The tasty flavor of the pear with the mild sharpness of the cheese is a winning combination.
You’ll love the taste and texture of the candied nuts and pomegranate garnish.
It makes a great appetizer for your next festive fall, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s gathering.
This treat is elevated, yet quick and easy to throw together.
It’s the perfect lightweight snack to keep you satisfied between meals.

What’s in this Easy Appetizer Recipe

Pears – I use green Bartlett or D’Anjou pears for this easy appetizer. They’re commonly found at the grocery store in my area and go well with the other ingredients. To pick out a ripe pear, you’ll want a fruit that has slight give when pressed on. Avoid pears that are too hard as they are not yet ripe and bland in flavor. Overly ripe pears are too soft and start to get mushy. Also avoid pears with brown bruised areas that are softer than the rest of the fruit.

Change it up: There are many types of pears that will work in this recipe, so choose your favorite! I think green pears look pretty with the white cheese and red pomegranate during the holidays.

Goat Cheese – This adds a little bit of creamy tartness to the appetizer and cuts the sweetness perfectly.

Change it up: Brie cheese is another great option on this appetizer.

Easy appetizer ingredients - goat cheese, pomegranate, pear, honey, candied pecans

Honey– Just a light drizzle on top of each pear slice will do.

Change it up: Pure maple syrup is another option with this recipe if that’s what you have on hand. Just like with the honey, a light drizzle will do.

Candied Pecans – This adds nice crunch, texture and sweetness to the recipe. I use candied pecan halves.

Change it up: Candied almonds or walnuts also work well with this appetizer.

Pomegranate – Like the cheese, this also cuts the sweet and adds a little tartness to the dish. The texture is great too!

Speed it up: If you are in need of saving time, grocery stores often sell the pomegranate seeds already removed from the fruit.

How to Make this Easy Pear Appetizer

The first thing I do is slice each pear lengthwise into about six “plates” or “discs,” creating a total of 12.

Next, I gently remove the seeds with a knife and try to avoid creating large holes in the pear slices, so the cheese doesn’t seep through the bottom.

Then, I spread a layer of goat cheese out to the edges of each pear slice, using all 4 ounces of goat cheese between the 12 slices. If the cheese is crumbling, I either let it come to room temp or pop it in the microwave for five seconds. It spreads easier this way.

Easy appetizer - sliced pears topped with goat cheese, pomegranate, candied pecan and honey on white plate

Next, I add a pecan half on top of each cheese covered pear slice. I think it’s pretty placed it in the middle.

Then, I sprinkle about ½ tsp of pomegranate (about 5 seeds) to the top of each pear slice.

Lastly, I lightly drizzle honey on the top of each slice, using a quick back and forth motion.

Finally, we serve and enjoy this delightful and easy appetizer!

What to Serve with this Easy Appetizer?

The right beverage served along side this appetizer will add to the experience. Here’s a few options that pair well with this dish:

White Wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay are fantastic alongside this recipe with it’s creamy cheese and lovely fruit.

Sparkling Water – Sparkling water is another option if you’d prefer a non-alcoholic beverage. Serve it with a fresh lemon wedge for added flavor. If you are serving this appetizer at a holiday party, add a few pomegranate seeds and garnish it with a sprig of rosemary for a festive look.

Ginger Ale – The ginger in this fizzy beverage goes very well with the flavors in this appetizer.

Sparkling Cider – Traditional Apple Cider also works well served alongside this recipe. Apple cranberry is a great option too.

Easy appetizer - sliced pears topped with goat cheese, pomegranate, candied pecan and honey on mini cutting board

Making Ahead & Storing Leftovers

Making Ahead

I recommend making this appetizer fresh. You can, however, remove the pomegranate from the fruit ahead of time to slightly speed up this already quick and easy appetizer.

Storing Leftovers

Although I always recommend making and eating this appetizer fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container or baggie. I recommend consuming leftovers within 24 hours.

Thank you for taking the time to check out this easy appetizer with pear and goat cheese. Let me know what you think it the comments below!

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Four slices of the easy pear appetizer with goat cheese, pomegranate, candied pecan and honey on white plate

Easy Appetizer with Pear, Pomegranate, Goat Cheese and More

This easy appetizer is perfect for your next party or gathering with juicy pear, pomegranate, creamy goat cheese, sweet honey, and candied nuts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Course Appetizer, Dessert, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

2 Pears
4 oz Creamy Goat Cheese * Log, not crumbled
2 Tbsp Pomegranate Seeds
12 Candied Pecan Halves
2 - 3 Tbsp Honey

Instructions

Slice each pear into six “plates” or “discs,” creating a total of 12 slices.
Gently remove the seeds with a knife. * Try and avoid creating large holes in pear slices when removing seeds so the cheese does not seep through the bottom.
Spread a layer of goat cheese out to the edges of each slice of pear, using all 4 ounces between the 12 slices. *If cheese is crumbling and not spreading well, bring the cheese to room temperature or microwave it for five seconds.
Place one candied pecan half on top of the cheese and in the center of each pear slice.
Sprinkle ½ tsp (about 5 seeds) of pomegranate to the top of each pear slice.
Lightly drizzle honey on top of each pear slice using a back-and-forth motion.
Serve and enjoy!

Keyword Appetizer, Christmas Appetizer, Easy, Easy Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer, Party Appetizer, Pear and Goat Cheese, Pear Appetizer, Thanksgiving Appetizer

How to Make a Gratitude Bucket Thanksgiving Decoration

by Angela at A Season to Smile | Oct 30, 2023 | At Home, Fall, Holidays/Occasions, Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving decoration is the perfect way to express gratitude this season with the ones you love.

Silver bucket on wooden tray lined with plaid paper surrounded by berries, white pumpkin and small "In all things give thanks" sign.

Let’s take a look at a Thanksgiving decoration with purpose! Sometimes it feels like we go straight from Halloween to Christmas and I say: “Hey, do what makes you happy!” BUT, what about Thanksgiving? Let’s give Thanksgiving the attention it deserves this year by taking a moment to recognize what you are thankful for. So come with me and I’ll tell you about a gratitude bucket is, why you’ll love it, how to make one, and more!

What is a Gratitude Bucket?

Did you know that reflecting on what you are thankful for improves your overall sense of wellbeing? Well, that’s the purpose of a gratitude bucket, which is simply a place for you and loved ones to write down what you are thankful for. For us, it’s also a fun and festive Thanksgiving decoration too!

Why You’ll Love this Thanksgiving Decoration

Gratitude and Thankfulness is proven to lift one’s mood.
You can make this decorative piece fit with fall, Christmas, or everyday home décor.
It’s a fun project to do as an individual, with your kids, your spouse, or Thanksgiving guests.
You may already have much of what you need for this Thanksgiving decoration at home.

How to Make this Thanksgiving Decoration

1. Choose How Long You’d Like to Engage in this Activity.

We like to do the gratitude bucket for the entire month of November and try to add something about once per day.

Another option is to have it out for the week of Thanksgiving. Include out-of-town guests when they arrive.

If you’re only having guests Thanksgiving day, have everyone add a few things when they arrive.

Also, if you’re unable to be with your loved ones this year, consider teaming up with family or friends from afar. Then get on the phone or Facetime Thanksgiving day and read what you’ve come up with.

2. Gather Supplies for this Fun Thanksgiving Decoration

There are endless possibilities for how to set up a gratitude bucket. I use fall/Thanksgiving paper and decorations but use Christmas or any other décor that will match your space. Let’s take a closer look at my example for inspiration.

In this example, I’ve used the following:

A Tray – This is used as a base for the decoration.

Sheets of Paper – I chose a variety of paper in fall and Thanksgiving colors and patterns. Some paper is used to line the base of the tray and some is used for writing what you’re thankful for.

Faux Berry Stems – Gold metallic stems that match the rest of the decoration are used in this example, but any fall leaves, Christmas flowers or other stems can be used to match your creation.

Thanksgiving Decorations for display - silver bucket, gold berries, small pieces of paper, tray, pens, pumpkin, Thanksgiving sign

An Ice Bucket – I chose this pretty silver ice bucket, but any jar or container that you like can be used.

Pens – Fun gold and silver metallic pens are what I chose, but there are endless pen colors and styles to choose from.

Fall Decorations – These are used as paperweights as well as aesthetic. I used a cute little fall sign and a faux pumpkin. Real pumpkins, turkey decorations, or Christmas candles are other options (just don’t light your candle, obviously, or find a battery operated candle).

3. Set up the Gratitude Bucket

The first thing I did was line the bottom of the tray with some of the pretty paper.

Next, I added my bucket in the center of the tray.

Then, I cut the other sheets of paper into 3-inch squares and stacked them on the tray on either side of the bucket.

Next, I added the fall decorations on top of the 3-inch pieces of paper, using them as decorative paper weights.

Then, I placed the faux stems in front of the bucket.

Lastly, I placed the pens inside of the bucket.

Now it’s ready to use. It’s that easy!

4. How to Use the Gratitude Bucket

To use this decoration, everyone writes down what they are thankful on the 3-inch pieces of paper regularly for your chosen amount of time. Have everyone fold them in half and place them in the bucket. You can have everyone write their name on the paper if there are more than two people doing the activity. Then, when Thanksgiving arrives, you can read them aloud. If you have shy family members, you can always leave the names off and do it anonymously.

Silver bucket on wooden tray lined with plaid paper filled with small pieces of folded paper

Where to Display this Thanksgiving Decoration

There are many places to display this Thanksgiving decoration. Place it in a convenient location for everyone to access it. Here are a few ideas:

As a Centerpiece on a Dining Table
On a Coffee Table
On a Console Table
On a Shelf
On a Kitchen Island or Countertop
On a Ottoman

What to be Thankful for – 30+ Ideas

If you’ve been feeling down or you’re just drawing a blank on what to be thankful for, here are some ideas. There is always something to be thankful for!

Your Spouse
Your Children
Your Extended Family
Your Friends
Your Pet/s
God
The Breath in Your Lungs
Your Home
Food to Eat
Others who Help You
Your Church or Place of Worship
A Favorite Book
Your Job/Income
A Game You Love to Play
Your Hobby
Quality Time with Your Favorite Person

small piece of paper with "I'm thankful for... My Family" written on it with silver pen sitting on corner and plaid background

17. Your Health

18. A Vacation

19. Plants You Love

20. Your Favorite Movie

21. The Weather

22. A Therapist

23. Healthcare

24. Your Faith

25. Memories of Time Spent with Those Who’ve Passed

26. A Good Night’s Sleep

27. The Five Senses

28. A Vehicle to Drive

29. Favorite Show

30. A Helpful Medication

31. The Clothes on Your Back

On a final note, consider making gratitude a regular part of your life through journaling or prayer/meditation. Being mindful and spending a few minutes doing so each day can actually change your life for the better. Sometimes we tend to notice and dwell on the bad things that happen in our day, but the practice of gratitude helps us rewire our brains to think more positively. I’ve often started my day praying for peace and joy, then I intentionally look for it, recognize it and thank God for the gifts. I feel like my days are always better when I partake in this practice and am striving to be better at doing it every day! Philippians 4:8

Thank you for coming along to make this Thanksgiving decoration! How will you decorate your gratitude bucket or what are you thankful for? Let me know in the comments below!

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Fantastic Butternut Squash Salad with Apple and Goat Cheese

by Angela at A Season to Smile | Oct 16, 2023 | Fall, Halloween, Holidays/Occasions, Recipes, Thanksgiving

symbols for gluten free, dairy free option and egg free

This tasty butternut squash salad has juicy apple, creamy goat cheese, candied nuts, and a delightful apple dressing.

prepared butternut squash salad with goat cheese, seeds, nuts and apples in white bowl

You’ll love this butternut squash salad this time of year. Apple, pumpkin seeds, and candied nuts add nice crunch, while the sweet squash and light apple cinnamon dressing make this salad perfect for fall. The creamy goat cheese cuts the sweetness of the other salad ingredients perfectly. This is a staple in our home in the fall and pairs well alongside so many dishes. Come with me and we’ll take a look at the ingredients, how to make it, and more!

Why You’ll Love this Butternut Squash Salad

This salad is perfect for fall.
It’s great as a side salad or main dish.
The cinnamon and brown sugar are delicious on the baked butternut squash.
Creamy goat cheese and candied nuts pair well with the butternut squash.
You’ll love the dressing with its tangy apple, sweet honey and cinnamon.

What’s in the Salad?

Butternut Squash – Cut the squash into ½ – ¾ inch cubes and then measure out two cups. You’ll bake it. Chilling the squash before adding it to the salad is optional.

Speed it up: Stores often carry precut cubed butternut squash in their produce section if you are looking to save some time.

Olive Oil – Olive oil is used to coat the squash before baking and is also an ingredient in the dressing.

Change it up: Butter is also a great option for coating the squash before baking.

Spices – Cinnamon and nutmeg and a pinch of salt adorn the squash, while cinnamon, ginger, and a little salt and pepper are ingredients in the dressing.

Brown Sugar – This adds a little sweetness to the squash.

Honey – The honey adds a little sweetness and flavor to the dressing.

individual butternut squash salad ingredients in white bowls with black background

Apple Cider Vinegar – This is a salad dressing ingredient that adds great flavor and tang to the dressing.

Apple Cider – The apple cider is also a dressing ingredient.

Change it up: Apple juice works fine if that’s what you have on hand.

Apple – You’ll need one small apple. My favorite apple for this salad is honey crisp. Gala apples are another option but choose your favorite.

Goat Cheese – Crumble the cheese on top of the salad. The cheese complements the sweetness of the other ingredients nicely.

Change it up: Candied walnuts are another option that work well with this salad.

Pumpkin Seeds – I use roasted, salted pumpkin seeds, but unsalted is fine too.

Candied Pecans – Cinnamon, honey roasted or other candied pecans all work well on the salad.

Change it up: Another option that work well with this salad is candied walnuts.

Salad Greens – I use mixed baby greens for this salad. You’ll use about 4 oz or 8 cups (NOT packed).

How to Make this Butternut Squash Salad

Bake the Squash

First, I preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Then, while the oven is preheating, I add the 2 cups of cubed squash, 1 Tbsp of olive oil, ¼ tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, ¾ tsp brown sugar and a pinch of salt to a mixing bowl. I prefer to use a wooden spoon and mix together until the squash is evenly coated with the ingredients.

Next, I line a baking sheet with foil and add the squash mixture to the baking sheet spreading it out into a single layer.

butternut squash salad instructions - bake squash, make dressing, mix ingredients, serve and enjoy

Then, I add the squash to the oven and bake for around 18 – 22 minutes or until a fork can easily pierce the squash, while it still maintains its structure. The baking time depends on the thickness of the cubes and your oven. I like to check the squash at 15 minutes, just to be safe.

Make the Dressing

While the squash is baking, I like to make the dressing. I add 2 Tbsp of olive oil, 2 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar, 4 Tbsp of apple cider or juice, 2 Tbsp of honey, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ginger, ½ tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp of pepper to a bowl and whisking the ingredients together until well combined.

Next, I remove the squash from the oven when it is finished baking and let cool while making the rest of the salad.

*** Optional – If you’d like your squash served chilled, add the squash to a plate or bowl when baking is complete and place it in the refrigerator for 30+ minutes or until it has cooled to your preference.

Make the Salad

Then, I add the 8 cups (4 oz) of Mixed baby greens to a large serving bowl and top with the wedges of 1 small apple, the 2 cups of baked butternut squash, ½ cup (2 oz) of goat cheese, 1/3 cup candied nuts and ¼ cup of pumpkin seeds.

Finally, I serve the salad with the dressing on the side and enjoy!

What to serve with this Butternut Squash Salad

Cornbread

Whether you’re serving this as a side salad or full meal salad, cornbread with butter and honey pairs very well on the side of this. *** There are a lot of gluten free mixes available for my gf friends out there. Let me know if you have a favorite brand in the comments below!

Chili

When serving this dish as a side salad, chili is a great option! Try this absolutely delicious pumpkin chili recipe that pairs well with this butternut squash salad.

Wine

If you like wine, a chardonnay is great with this meal and pairs well with everything listed.

Ginger Ale or Sparkling Cider

A tasty ginger ale or sparkling cider or sparkling cranberry cider is a great non-alcoholic option to go with this dish.

Prepping, Making Ahead & Storing Leftovers

Making Ahead

The squash is great made ahead of time and chilled. Also, the dressing can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. I recommend making just a much as you will eat immediately and mixing ingredients once you are ready to serve the dish. Also, make sure serve the dressing on the side. Serve all ingredients within three days of preparing.

Storing Leftovers

Although the salad is always best when ingredients are mixed together just before serving, leftovers can safely be stored and taste fine in the fridge for up to three days.

Thank you for checking out this butternut squash salad. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Let me know what you think in the comments below.

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prepared butternut squash salad on white plate with black background

Fantastic Butternut Squash Salad with Apple and Goat Cheese

This tasty butternut squash salad has juicy apple, creamy goat cheese, candied nuts, and a delightful apple dressing.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Course Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

Salad

8 Cups Mixed Baby Greens * Not packed = about 4 ounces
1 Apple, chopped into small wedges * Honey crisp, gala, or your favorite
½ Cup Goat Cheese, crumbled * About 2 ounces * Use vegan goat style cheese or remove cheese for dairy free
⅓ Cup Candied Pecans
¼ Cup Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
2 Cups Butternut Squash, cubed * Cut into 1/2 inch - 3/4 inch cubes
1 Tbsp Olive Oil * Butter is also an option
¼ tsp Cinnamon
⅛ tsp Nutmeg
¾ tsp Brown Sugar
Pinch Salt

Salad Dressing

2 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
¼ Cup Apple Cider * Apple Juice works too
2 Tbsp Honey
¼ tsp Cinnamon
¼ tsp Ginger
½ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
While the oven is preheating, add 2 cups of cubed squash, 1 Tbsp of olive oil, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp of nutmeg, 3/4 tsp brown sugar and a pinch of salt to a mixing bowl. Mix the ingredients together until the squash is evenly coated with the ingredients.
Line a baking sheet with foil and add the squash mixture to the baking sheet spreading it out into a single layer.
Place the squash in the oven and bake for around 18 – 22 minutes or until a fork can easily pierce the squash, while it still maintains its structure. The baking time depends on the thickness of the cubes and your oven.
While the squash is baking, make the dressing. Add 2 Tbsp of olive oil, 2 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar, 4 Tbsp of apple cider or juice, 2 Tbsp of honey, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp of pepper to a bowl and whisk the ingredients until well combined.
Remove the squash from the oven when it is finished baking and let cool while making the rest of the salad. *** Optional – If you’d like your squash served chilled, add the squash to a plate or bowl when baking is complete and place it in the refrigerator for 30+minutes or until it has cooled to your preference.
Add 8 cups (4 oz) of mixed baby greens to a large serving bowl and top with the wedges of 1 small apple, the 2 cups of baked butternut squash, 1/2 cup (2 oz) of goat cheese, 1/3 cup candied pecans, and ¼ cup of pumpkin seeds.
Serve the salad with the dressing on the side and enjoy!

Notes

* This recipe makes eight side salads at 220 calories each or four larger meal salads at 440 calories each.

* Prep time may be longer id you decide to chill the squash

Keyword apple salad, autumn salad, butternut squash, butternut squash recipe, butternut squash salad, butternut squash with cinnamon, dinner salad, fall salad, Gluten Free, harvest salad, healthy salad, Lunch, salad, side salad

15 Easy and Festive Fall Decoration Ideas for a Cozy Home!

by Angela at A Season to Smile | Oct 10, 2023 | At Home, Fall, Halloween, Holidays/Occasions, Thanksgiving

These festive fall decoration ideas are the perfect way to add festive flair to your home this pumpkin season!

Room decorated with pumpkin patch sign, fall decorated lanterns, orange and cream blankets, pumpkins, orange flowers

These fall decoration ideas will have your home extra cozy and ready to deck the halls with “autumn leaves and pumpkins please!” I just love this time of year with pumpkin anything and everything everywhere you turn. I’ve collected almost as much fall décor as Christmas (but not quite, haha). I don’t know what it is, but giving the house a fresh makeover as the seasons change, or as a holiday approaches brings me great joy. There’s something about being surrounded by autumn ambiance while making my pumpkin pancakes or sipping on a hot cider that makes life feel pretty darn great. So, let’s look at a few décor ideas. I hope you find some inspiration here!

Why You’ll Love Decorating Your Home for Fall

It’ll get you and the family into the autumn spirit.
It creates warm ambiance for you and the family to enjoy.
Fall Décor creates a great atmosphere for party or dinner guests.
It makes devouring those tasty fall recipes that much more enjoyable.

Fall Decoration Ideas

1. Fall Wreaths

Pretty wreaths are a great fall decoration idea to add festive flair to your humble abode. This time of year, you’ll find wreaths with fall leaves and stems in various shades of red, orange, yellow, brown, gold, and neutral colors. Some have pumpkins, acorns, sweet little bows and more. Your front door isn’t the only place for a fall wreath. Hang them on the wall or a mirror indoors to add warmth to any room.

cream chair with orange "Thankful" pillow, fall wreath on wall, orange and cream blankets

2. Soft Blankets

Home stores have cozy blankets in various autumn colors to decorate your space for fall. Blanket ladders are one great way to both display and store them. Simply draping your festive fall blankets over a couch, chair or ottoman also makes a space inviting. Fleece, faux fur and other various knits and patterns can be found to suit your taste and fit your space!

3. Festive Pillows

Pillows that fit the season are another great fall decoration idea. Look for soft pillows with warm autumn colors and patterns to add some festive fun to your humble abode. Seasonal pillows are great for cozying up a couch, your favorite chair and even your bed.

4. Fall Tiered Tray

Decorate a (tiered tray for fall). It’s a great way to display all the adorable tiny pumpkins, mini hay bales, cute signs and more in an organized fashion. Click here for a how-to guide and ideas!

5. Autumn Wall Art

Find some decorative wall art with paintings or photographs of fall landscapes like autumn leaves, pumpkin patches, and apple orchards. Display the art above a couch or on a shelf or desk to enjoy all season long.

Orange pillows and pumpkin pillows, tray decorated with fall decor, fall art with golden trees, towels with fall leaves

6. Festive Kitchen Towels

Grab some of those festive fall towels at your local home store to hang in your kitchen. You know drying dishes (after making these (insert link here) delicious pumpkin pancakes) will be so much more enjoyable when using a cute fall towel, haha!

7. Fall Magazines

A lesser thought of fall decoration idea is to grab a couple fall magazines to display on your ottoman, coffee, or side table. You can often find magazines full of fun fall décor or tasty autumn recipes for you and guests to enjoy.

8. Seasonal Coasters

Fall coasters are practical and decorative. Add them to your side table or a tray on your ottoman for that pumpkin spice latte or hot apple cider you plan on enjoying with your favorite Halloween movie!

9. Fall Centerpieces

Make a simple centerpiece this fall! You can use candles, fall leaves, other decorative fall stems, pumpkins, gourds and more to make a fun and festive centerpiece. Display it on a dining table, kitchen island, or coffee table to add ambiance to your space.

10. Autumn Lantern

Why not decorate a fall lantern this pumpkin season? Lanterns add warmth to any room and come in various styles and materials, so it’s easy to find something to match your style. Add fall leaves, a candle, and top it with a fall stem or pretty bow. There’s many places to display your lanterns and you can leave them up all year long by simply changing just a few small details. Check out How to Decorate a Lantern for Fall here.

tray decorated with fall magazine, coasters, orange flowers, centerpiece with fall leaves, lantern with leaves, bouquet and fall sign

11. Fall Bouquets

Add fresh bouquets of mums or daisies in red, orange, and golden yellow to a side or console table for some festive flair. Sunflowers also make beautiful fall bouquets. Look for dried leaves, faux autumn stems, wheat bunches, flowers and more and add them to a vase for your dining room table.

12. Festive Signs

Fall signs with phrases like “Pumpkin Patch” or “Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice” are fun fall decoration ideas. Some have a set of several happy autumn phrases, while other are a single word, phrase or quote.

13. Pumpkins or Gourds

Pumpkins come in all shapes, sizes, and even colors! They are a great addition to a centerpiece or tiered tray décor. Of course, your front porch begs for pumpkins galore to welcome guests or trick-or-treaters. Put them on shelves, windowsills or even on your desk at work for added fall charm.

14. Fall Garland

There are endless options for autumn garlands available. Of course, you’ll find traditional fall leaves and berries, but perhaps little footballs or turkeys are more up your alley. Some have corn, pumpkins, acorns, spooky ghosts for Halloween and more. Hang garland around doorways or place it on a shelf or entertainment center. Add a string of lights for added ambiance.

15. Autumn Scents

Complete your fall décor with a lovely fall scent. Candles, wall plugins, and room sprays are available this time of year in delightful scents of apples or pumpkin with cinnamon and spice.

Thank you for checking out these festive fall decoration ideas! What autumn decor will you put up in your home? Let me know in the comments below.

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How to Decorate a Fall Tiered Tray

by Angela at A Season to Smile | Oct 2, 2023 | At Home, Fall, Halloween, Holidays/Occasions, Thanksgiving

Pumpkin season is here! Get into the spirit of the season and decorate a fall tiered tray. Autumn leaves, mini pumpkins, a candle and more adorn this fun decorative piece. What will you put on yours?

Fall tiered tray with mini hay bales, orange and white pumpkins, fall leaves and berries, candle, and framed verse

Come with me and I’ll show you how to decorate a tiered tray for fall! There are so many fun things you can do to make it your own. It’s a fun project to do solo, with a friend, or with the kiddos. So warm up that hot spiced cider or grab a pumpkin spice latte and let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love a Tiered Tray Decorated for Fall

It’s a festive way to add fall flair to your home or office.
You can easily match it to your home.
It’s a fun project if you want to add your own creative touch, but these instructions make it easy for those who feel creativity is not their strong suit.
There are many places you can display your fall tiered tray.
You can easily change a few items to match the current season or holiday.

How to Make a Fall Tiered Tray Match My Home

It doesn’t matter what style your home is, you can put together a tiered tray that fits with your decor. If you have a lot of color in your home and the traditional fall colors of orange, yellow and red don’t match what you already have, look for neutral or more muted fall décor. There’s a lot out there! You may even be able to find décor items in your home’s colors. You can always grab a faux pumpkin and spray it any color you want, but have you seen the current selection of pumpkin colors available lately?

Another thing to consider is that even if fall colors don’t match your home décor colors exactly, they may complement them. Orange and yellow go well with navy, as one example.

Now if your furniture is a rainbow of colors that won’t match anything fall, why not decorate a small space like a bathroom, your bedroom or an office with neutral base pieces and add that pop of seasonal color. There’s a lot of places where you can put this decorative piece.

Where Can I Put a Tiered Tray?

Kitchen
- Countertop in a corner
- Middle of a kitchen island
- Centered on, and up against, a kitchen wall
Bathroom
- Countertop between double sinks or in a corner to the side of one sink.
- Corner ledge of a large soaking tub
Office
- Desk
- Shelf or cabinet
Living Room/Family Room/Den
- Console table
- Shelf
Bedroom
- Dresser in your bedroom or guest room.

What Can I Put On My Fall Tiered Tray?

Now that we know where to put the tiered tray, let’s look at what to put on it. There are endless items you can put on the tray. If you’re like me and find anything tiny absolutely adorable, then this is the project for you. I’ve found those cute little decorative items look best grouped together with larger items to avoid a space looking cluttery.

Now let me show you what I put on this fun decorative piece and give you some other ideas to ponder.

Foundation Pieces

Your foundation pieces are the pieces that can be used year-round without being changed out. This can simply be the tray, but there’s some other decorative items we can use as well.

The Foundation Pieces I Use Include:

A Tiered Tray

There are so many to choose from, so you won’t have trouble finding one that goes with your home décor style. I chose a neutral, off white, wood tray with a metal handle and two tiers. It’s a bit rustic, but polished and goes with my farmhouse décor. You can get these trays in a variety of neutral colors and finishes (or in various colors if you so desire). They come in wood, metal, ceramic and more. Some are round and some are square. You’ll often find they have two or three tiers. I find the two-tiered tray fits more decorative items because there is more space between the top and bottom tier. Also, the height is just right for fitting on my kitchen counter, under my cabinets.

Foundation Pieces - little pitcher, mini vase, cupcake stand, mini lights

A Miniature Vase

These can be found in various shapes, sizes and colors at craft stores or in small sets online. I use a cute little clear one. You can put seasonal stems or flowers in it.

A Single Cupcake Stand

This is great for elevating smaller items and can also be found at a craft store or in sets at online retailers, but also at a kitchen or home goods store. They come in various colors and materials as well.

A Little Pitcher

I found this at a home store in the kitchen section, and like the little vase, it’s great for holding seasonal stems and flowers.

Miniature Lights

These little lights add ambiance to the tiered tray. You can find them at craft stores, big box stores, or online retailers.

Other Foundation Piece Ideas Include:

A Candle

If you’d like this as a foundational piece, make sure to get a neutral color.

Beaded Garland

This is a versatile decorative piece that can be used almost anywhere, including your fall tiered tray. It can be a foundation piece, or they make colorful fall versions as well.

Tiny Books

You can find and stack actual miniature books (yes, this is a thing and they’re adorable) or you can find miniature decorations that are made to look like a stack of books.

Seasonal Pieces

These are the decorative pieces that you can have fun with and change out each season.

The Seasonal Pieces I Use Include:

Mini Hay Bales

I just love these little bales of hay. They’re great for stacking or elevating other items on your tray.

Little Pumpkins

I’m using a real orange mini pumpkin and a faux white pumpkin, but real white pumpkins have become quite popular and are easy to find as well.

Autumn Leaves

I chose some dark orange and red leaves with little pinecones and an acorn on it. Check out your local craft store. You can find leaves in red, orange, yellow and even neutral colors.

Other Fall Stems

I found some orange stems and creamy fall berries at my local craft store.

Seasonal Candle

Instead of using a candle as a foundation piece, I use a pretty gold, fall seasonal candle on my tiered tray. You can also switch the candle out, getting different seasonal colors or shapes (fall leaf, pumpkin, etc.).

Fall Verse for Picture Frame

I use a Bible verse (Matthew 18:20) as it speaks of gathering, which brings to mind Thanksgiving. You can make your own with a small picture frame and print out a quote, verse or phrase you like to personalize your tray. Check out these ideas below.

What Quote or Phrase Should I Put in My Picture Frame?

Quotes

- - It’s the first day of Autumn! A time of Hot Chocolatey Mornings, and Toasty Marshmallow Evenings, and, Best of All, Leaping into Leaves! – Winnie the Pooh
  - As Long as Autumn Lasts, I Shall Not Have Hands, Canvas and Colors Enough to Paint the Beautiful Things I See. – Vincent Van Gogh
  - Every Leaf Speaks Bliss to Me, Fluttering From the Autumn Tree – Emily Bronte
  - I’m So Glad We Live in a World Where There are Octobers – L.M. Montgomery
  - Autumn is Here! The Soul Stirs with Joy as Glowing Fall Leaves Dance Their Way to the Ground. – Angela Harris

Phrases

- - Autumn Leaves and Pumpkins Please
  - Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice
  - Happy Fall Y’all
  - Gather Together

Other Seasonal Piece Ideas Include:

Sun flowers, other fall-colored flowers or mini wheat stalks
Small gourds
Ornamental corn
Bundled cinnamon sticks
Small figurines like owls, mini scarecrows, little vintage trucks, etc.
Halloween or Thanksgiving items like little ghosts, jack-o-lanterns or turkeys.
Miniature signs with words or short phrases.

How to Decorate the Fall Tiered Tray

On my tray I’ve got some red, orange, gold, beige and white. I like to spread the colors throughout the tray.

You can see I have orange on the bottom left side of the tray (the orange plant stems) and on the top right side of the tray (the mini pumpkin).
Also, I have red leaves on both the upper left and lower right, spreading those brighter colors out.
Then I’ve got beiges spread out like a triangle with the hay bales and the fall berries.
Lastly, I have a little gold on the top and bottom.

Overall, I approach decorating a tiered tray looking for a little balance and cohesion, but with a goal of avoiding an overly orderly and symmetrical look. Following these steps should give it a natural flow.

I had a lot of fun putting together a tiered tray for fall. I hope you enjoy it too!

Click Below to Enjoy More Seasonal Fun!

Button for butternut squash recipe blog post

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BEST Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes Ever!

by Angela at A Season to Smile | Sep 25, 2023 | Fall, Halloween, Holidays/Occasions, Recipes, Thanksgiving

symbols for gluten free, dairy free option and egg free option

These delightful gluten free pumpkin pancakes are full of coziness with their warm autumn spices, sweet molasses, and delicious pumpkin puree.

Gluten free pumpkin pancakes with butter and syrup in front of pumpkin and fall leaves

Growing up in Oregon, I always loved the feeling of that first crisp fall day after enjoying a few months of warm summer air. The leaves would change, kids went back to school and football season began. Let’s just say we were ready to enjoy pumpkin EVERYTHING! Pumpkin patches, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin bread, pumpkin décor, the best pumpkin pancakes ever . . . you name it.

We don’t get those crisp fall days where we live in Arizona, but we make sure to visit a place that does each year and turn our home into an autumn wonderland! Saturday morning pancakes or waffles have become a tradition in our household and we look forward to that first Saturday in September when it’s time to make my pumpkin pancakes. I love the smell, the taste and the coziness it brings to our little family table. I’m guessing you will too!

Why You’ll Love these Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes

They fill the house with a lovely fall frangrance.
The luscious taste and texture are to die for.
They’re perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any cozy fall morning.
No one will have any idea they’re gluten free. They’re that good!
They’re fantastic leftover!

What’s in these Pumpkin Pancakes?

Liquid Ingredients

Egg – This helps hold the ingredients together (it’s a binder) and adds a little fluff.

Change it up: I haven’t had a need to make these without eggs, but there are a lot of options for egg substitutes out there, including pumpkin puree, believe it or not. You can try replacing the egg with an additional ¼ cup of pumpkin puree or if you’re feeling adventurous, try ¼ cup of yogurt, applesauce or even carbonated water.

Pancake ingredients - fall spices, egg, apple cider vinegar, baking soda & powder, gf flour, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, butter, salt

Pumpkin – You can use canned pumpkin puree, but make sure you don’t grab canned pumpkin pie filling by mistake.

Change it up: Try making pumpkin puree from home with fresh pumpkin. I grew up doing this and it’s easy and quite fun (you can even roast the seeds with cinnamon and sugar while you’re at it – yum).

Molasses – Love the distinct flavor and sweetness this adds to the pancakes.

Milk – I most often use a lactose free milk brand called Fairlife that’s super creamy, but regular milk is great too.

Change it up: If you’re dairy free or prefer other types of milk, I often make this with unsweetened vanilla almond milk. These can be made with most alternative milks, so choose your fav!

Oil or Butter – Choose your favorite here. I’ve made them with real butter and vegetable oil and they turn out great.

Apple Cider Vinegar – The flavor of the apple cider vinegar blends well with these other fall flavors.

Dry Ingredients

Flour – You’ll want to use a gluten free 1 to 1 baking flour. I prefer Bob’s Redmill brand.

Spices – These spices along with the pumpkin make the pancake! Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg and a little clove will warm you from head to toe and provide the delightful autumn scent. This is my favorite spice combo in so many fall and winter baked goods.

Brown Sugar – For a little extra touch of sweetness.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda – Combined with the cider vinegar, the other liquid ingredients, and a little heat, these will help fluff up the pancakes.

How to make Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes

Preheat Griddle or Skillet – Heat your non-stick griddle to 350 degrees or warm a non-stick skillet on medium heat.

*** Add a little oil if you are not using a non-stick surface

Pumpkin pancake instructions - mix dry ingredients, mix wet ingredients, combine wet and dry ingredients, make pancakes

Mix Dry Ingredients – Add the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, brown sugar, baking powder and baking soda to a medium bowl and mix until they are well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and white until just combined. Then add the pumpkin puree, molasses, milk, oil OR butter and apple cider vinegar and gently mix together.

Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients – With a whisk, slowly and gently mix in the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients in your large bowl. You’ll see those beautiful bubbles that will fluff those pancakes up, so you don’t want to over mix it.

Make the Pumpkin Pancakes – Spoon enough batter onto the griddle or skillet to make 3–4-inch pancakes. Flip the pancakes after about 3 minutes or once they begin to turn a golden-brown color. Cook a remaining 2-3 minutes on the bottom side.

Add Toppings and Enjoy!

What Toppings Go Well on these Pumpkin Pancakes?

Classic Butter and Syrup – The obvious topping is butter (or non-dairy buttery spread) and syrup. These Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes are so good with pure maple syrup!

Whipped Cream and Candied Nuts – Add a little whipped cream and candied pecans or walnuts and we’ll call these pumpkin pie!

Nut Butter and Chocolate Chips – Spread your favorite nut butter on your pancakes and top with chocolate chips. There’s your classic peanut butter (crunchy or creamy), but almond or hazelnut are tasty options as well!

Ice Cream, Cinnamon Crumble and Nuts– If you want to turn your pancakes into dessert, top them with vanilla ice cream and a simple crumble of butter (or non-dairy spread), cinnamon, brown sugar and gluten free 1 to 1 flour. Top the ice cream with the crumble and pecans or walnuts.

Pumpkin pancakes on white plate with pumpkin and leaves in background

Making Ahead, Storing and Reheating Leftover Pumpkin Pancakes

Mix Dry Ingredients Ahead of Time – Save time by mixing the dry ingredients together ahead of time. I like to do this the night before I make them.

*** Do not mix the wet ingredients ahead of time. Once you make the batter, you’ll want to make the pancakes right away so they fluff up nicely.

Make Pancakes Ahead of Time – These pumpkin pancakes are fantastic leftover, so go ahead and make them ahead of time!

Storing Leftovers – You can store the leftover pancakes in the fridge for up to 3 days or the freezer for up to 3 months. In the fridge, I recommend storing them in a plastic baggie, removing all of the air to keep them moist and fresh. In the freezer, double up the baggies to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Leftovers – The best way to reheat these is in the toaster. I absolutely love the slight crisp it gives to the outside of the pancakes.

Thank you for making these absolutely delicious pumpkin pancakes with me! Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Click Below to Enjoy More Seasonal Fun!

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pumpkin pancakes with butter, syrup on white plate with fork in front of pumpkins and leaves

BEST Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes EVER!

These delightful gluten free pumpkin pancakes are full of coziness with their warm autumn spices, sweet molasses, and delicious pumpkin puree. There’s also an option to make them dairy and/or egg free!

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 185 kcal

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

1 ½ Cups Gluten Free 1 to 1 Flour
1 ½ tsp Cinnamon
½ tsp Ground Ginger
¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
⅛ tsp Ground Cloves
1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
1 tsp Baking Powder
½ tsp Baking Soda

Wet Ingredients

1 Egg For egg free, replace egg with extra 1/4 cup of pumpkin
¾ Cup Pumpkin
¼ Cup Molasses
1 Cup Milk For dairy free, replace with unsweetened vanilla almond milk or your favorite dairy free milk
1 Tbsp Butter For dairy free, replace with 1 Tbsp oil
1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

Instructions

Preheat Griddle or Skillet - Heat your non-stick griddle to 350 degrees or warm a non-stick skillet on medium heat.
*** Add a little oil if you are not using a non-stick surface
Mix Dry Ingredients - Add the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, brown sugar, baking powder and baking soda to a medium bowl and mix until they are well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and white until just combined. Then add the pumpkin puree, molasses, milk, butter OR oil and apple cider vinegar and gently mix together.
Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients - With a whisk, slowly and gently mix in the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients in your large bowl. You’ll see those beautiful bubbles that fluff those pancakes up, so you don’t want to over mix it.
Make the Pumpkin Pancakes– Spoon enough batter onto the griddle or skillet to make 3-inch pancakes. Flip the pancakes after about 3 minutes or once they begin to turn a golden-brown color. Cook a remaining 2-3 minutes on the bottom side.
Add Toppings and Enjoy!
*** Makes approximately 16 three-inch Pancakes

Notes

Pumpkin Pancake Toppings Ideas

Classic Butter and Syrup – The obvious topping is butter (or non-dairy buttery spread) and syrup. These Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes are so good with 100% pure maple syrup!
Whipped Cream and Candied Nuts – Add a little whipped cream (or non-dairy whipped topping) and candied pecans, walnuts or almonds and we’ll call these pumpkin pie Yum!
Nut Butter and Chocolate Chips – Spread your favorite nut butter on your pancakes and top with chocolate chips. Of course, there’s your classic peanut butter (crunchy or creamy), but almond or hazelnut are tasty options as well!
Ice Cream, Cinnamon Crumble and Nuts– If you want to turn your pancakes into dessert, top them with vanilla ice cream and throw together a simple crumble with butter (or non-dairy spread), cinnamon, brown sugar and gluten free 1 to 1 flour. Top the ice cream with the crumble and pecans or walnuts.

Keyword Fall, Gluten Free, Halloween, Pancakes, Pumpkin, Thanksgiving

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