As the leaves begin to fall and we feel the first chills in the air, many will look for ways to get in the spirit of autumn. Whether it’s switching up your style, redecorating your room, or rewatching Hocus Pocus, even the simplest things help make the season special. For me, cooking and baking help me get excited for the season. However, we all know college students like things to be quick and easy. So in my reader’s best interest, I’ve compiled some of my favorite recipes that are both simple and delicious.
1. Fall rice krispy treats
Rice Krispies are a classic treat, and so much better when they’re homemade.You can have your very own pan of gooey treats in just a few simple steps.
- Add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter to a medium sauce pan, melting over medium heat.
- Once the butter is fully melted, add in one package of marshmallows. Stir constantly until fully melted.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the marshmallow mixture.
- Add 6 cups of rice cereal to your mixture, stir until fully combined.
- Immediately transfer the mixture to a 9×13 pan that has been greased with cooking spray. Spread the mixture with a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Finally, top the treats with some festive fall sprinkles. Let cool for about ten minutes, slice, and enjoy!
2. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Although muffins are traditionally a breakfast treat, I like to enjoy them any time of the day.
- Grease a 12 count muffin tin, or line with cupcake liners, then preheat the oven to 375 Fahrenheit.
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. 1 3/4 cup of all purpose flower, 1 tsp of baking soda, 2 1/2 tsp of pumpkin pie spice, and a dash of salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix wet ingredients. 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 12oz can of pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, and 1/4 cup of milk.
- Slowly incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stir until fully combined.
- Add 1 cup of chocolate chips, and/or 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
- Scoop batter into the muffin and place in the oven for about 21-25 minutes. To check if the muffins are done, place a toothpick in the middle and if it comes out clean then they are ready!
3. Oreo With hats
These witch hats are the simplest and cutest treat for any halloween party, and best of all, they’re only three ingredients.
- Place Oreos on parchment paper.
- Place green candy melts in a microwave safe bowl. Melt on 50% power in 30 second intervals until fully melted.
- Take a spoon and add about a teaspoon of the green chocolate on top of the Oreos.
- Let the chocolate set for about a minute. It should still be soft to the touch.
- Place a Hershey kiss in the center of the Oreo, and on top of the chocolate.
- Add sprinkles if desired before letting set until chocolate is fully hardened.
4. Brown sugar pumpkin spice espresso
I love coffee, and I love pumpkin spice season even more. However, buying coffee is expensive, which is why I opt to make my coffee at home. This brown sugar pumpkin spice espresso tastes similar to my favorite Starbucks coffee, while also being a whole lot cheaper. This final recipe will help you live out your Gilmore Girls dreams without having to change out of your Pajamas.
- Brew a double shot of espresso (2 tsp instant espresso) over 1 tsp of brown sugar, 1/2 tsp of vanilla bean paste, 1/2 tsp of pumpkin pie spice, and a dash of sea salt. Mix until ingredients are completely incorporated.
- Fill a 16oz cup with your desired amount of ice.
- Pour your espresso over the ice.
- Add 8oz of milk to the cup and mix it with the espresso.
- Top with whipped cream, extra pumpkin pie spice, and enjoy your new favorite coffee!