Halloween is just around the corner, and if you're hosting a gathering, now’s the time to finalize your festive menu. Halloween parties are all about indulging in deliciously spooky treats that embrace the season’s flavors and add to the ambiance. From savory starters to eerie cocktails, our menu is packed with options that will delight both kids and adults, and add a frightfully fun flair to your celebration.

For dessert, we're keeping it simple yet festive with classic cider doughnuts—a local favorite here in the Hamptons that perfectly captures autumn’s charm. We’re also setting out plenty of Halloween candy, of course, but we encourage you to consider a dessert that celebrates your own area’s flavors and traditions. Whether that’s homemade candy apples, pumpkin-flavored treats, or something with a regional twist, dessert is the perfect opportunity to showcase a bit of local pride and seasonal spirit.

• Pumpkin Patch Cheese note: roll a log of plain goat cheese in pumpkin seeds and then roll in paprika

• Blood Moon Boursin

• Broomstick Bites note: I’ll be sharing a recipe later this week but the link to Southern Living’s recipe is great!

• Deviled Eggs

• Crimson Curse Cheese note: roll a log of goat cheese in lightly toasted almond slivers and chopped dried cranberries

• Ghostly Gratin

• Baba Ghoulnoush

• Black Magic Hummus note: simply substitute the tahini for black tahini

• Pukin’ Pumpkin note: carve a small pumpkin and place the guacamole dip coming out of the pumpkin’s mouth

This “Blood Moon” cocktail combines hibiscus tea, vodka, and a splash of orange liqueur for a rich, ruby-red drink with a hint of citrus. It's easy to make and looks spectacular with some eerie garnish!

Blood Moon Cocktail Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka

• 1 oz hibiscus tea (1 teaspoon of dried hibiscus leaves to 1 cup of hot water)

• 1 teaspoon agave syrup

• 0.5 oz orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)

• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice

• pinch of salt

• Ice

• Garnish: fresh cranberries or a rosemary sprig for a “witchy” look

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add vodka, hibiscus tea, orange liqueur, and lime juice.

2. Shake well until thoroughly chilled (about 15 seconds).

3. Strain into a chilled glass. If you want an extra-spooky effect

4. Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or a rosemary sprig for a touch of eerie flair.

This refreshing, lightly fruity water will keep you hydrated and grounded, even on the spookiest of nights!

Vampire’s Elixir Ingredients

• Large ice cubes with cranberries and pomegranate seeds frozen inside

• 1 pitcher of water

• 1 orange, thinly sliced

• Extra cranberries and pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)

Vampire’s Elixir Instructions

Prepare the Ice Cubes (at least 4 hours in advance):

• Place a few cranberries and pomegranate seeds into each compartment of a large ice cube tray.

• Fill the tray with water and freeze until solid.

Assemble the Elixir:

• Fill your pitcher with the cranberry and pomegranate ice cubes.

• Add additional water to fill the pitcher.

• Place the orange slices in the pitcher, gently stirring them in to infuse.

Serve:

• For an extra touch, add a few extra cranberries and pomegranate seeds directly into each glass.

• Pour and enjoy as your Vampire’s Elixir chills and flavors the water for a subtly sweet, festive drink!

This hydrating mix is perfect for sipping through a candy-laden night!