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As autumn comes to a close and the temperature outside continues to drop, there’s nothing that many of us crave more than warmth and comfort. Classically, the three best places to find that warmth and comfort are through friends, family, and, of course, food. And that’s great timing, because Thanksgiving season is upon us.

When you’re in college, however, the coziness that comes with Thanksgiving season might be a little harder to find. Whether that’s because the days getting shorter, finals are approaching, family lives far away, or even just that you’re cooped up in a boring and uncomfortable dorm room, enjoying Thanksgiving season while in college can be difficult. Thanksgiving is a time to remember what you do have, though — and that’s where Friendsgiving comes in. Friendsgiving is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and practice gratitude for the life you have with the people who are around you. It’s also a great opportunity to eat great food!

Friendsgiving is typically a potluck-style event, so if you’re invited to one, you’re probably on the hook to bring something with you. If you live in a dorm with limited kitchen access, that might seem stressful, but trust me, it’s not impossible. If you’re in need of recipes for your home-away-from-home Friendsgiving celebration, look no further. These dorm-friendly Friendsgiving recipe ideas, inspired by TikTok, might not be as elaborate as a Thanksgiving turkey or your mom’s secret pumpkin pie recipe, but they’re sure to impress all the same.

Garlic Bread 

Garlic bread is a quick and easy recipe you could easily recreate with a microwave or air fryer. Always a crowd pleaser, it’s sure to be a popular dish at whatever Friendsgiving you attend.

Cinnamon Apples 

Such a fun and sweet fall treat! Even if you don’t have an air fryer, coating some apple slices with cinnamon sugar and caramel is a delicious and simple way to contribute to the Friendsgiving table. 

Monkey Bread

With a microwave, some flour, yogurt, cinnamon, a spread of your choosing, and a dream, you can make this delicious monkey bread in under 10 minutes. Duplicate the recipe as many times as you need to for Friendsgiving, or just keep this single-serving recipe for yourself. I wouldn’t judge.

Caramel Apple Grapes 

These are easy, delicious, and, frankly, adorable. They’re sure to impress everyone at the Friendsgiving table.

Tiramisu

If you’re looking for a (seemingly) fancier recipe for a fraction of the effort, look no further. Dorm-friendly tiramisu is a Friendsgiving dream!

Caprese Salad

Though this one is less of a classic fall recipe, it’s sure to be a fan-favorite regardless. Plus, it’s super easy to make.

Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s another classic to make your Friendsgiving feel just as warm and fuzzy as your traditional meal at home. Though this one isn’t necessarily as “homemade” as some of the other options, it’s a recipe that people will certainly love.

Apple Bark

This one is so simple — just thinly slice an apple, cover it with chocolatey, peanut buttery goodness, and slice up some almonds (unless one of your Friendsgiving guests is allergic — send out a poll beforehand). The people will love this festive snack.

Charcuterie Board

Finally, here’s an option to show off not just your great taste, but also your creativity! If you’re not into microwaving, freezing, or air-frying, this one’s for you. Just throw your favorite cheeses, crackers, spreads, and any other snacks onto a plate or cutting board, and arrange them however your heart desires!

Cate Scott

Syracuse '26

Cate Scott is a third-year Syracuse University student pursuing a dual degree in journalism and creative writing. Actively contributing to multiple campus publications and constantly learning about the journalism field in her courses, she is dedicated to expanding her writing skills across various disciplines and formats. She is currently based in Greater Boston and is interested in exploring magazine writing, politics, investigative work, and culture. Cate has been reading and writing poetry and personal essays for years. She hopes to pursue creative writing as well as her journalistic passions in her future career. Beyond her academic pursuits, Cate is a runner and seasoned music nerd. She is on her school's club sailing team and is a proud and active sorority member. The highlights of her weeks include hosting her college radio show, exploring Syracuse, finding time to play her guitar, and doing it all with her roommates and best friends. A native New Englander, Cate spends her summers taking the train into Boston and hiking with her German Shepherd, Maggie.