Homemade Pumpkin Half Moon Cookies

Sunday, September 27, 2026
There’s something extra special about baking with pumpkin when the weather starts to cool down.

These Homemade Pumpkin Half Moon Cookies are soft, tender, wonderfully cakey, and filled with all the warm spices we love about fall.

Every bite has that comforting combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, and pumpkin pie spice.

Then comes the sweet icing spread over half of the cookie, giving these treats their classic half-moon appearance.

They’re a little bit cookie, a little bit cake, and completely delicious!

These pumpkin cookies are wonderful for fall parties, Halloween gatherings, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or perfect with a cup of warm Apple Cider on a chilly afternoon.

This recipe is a copycat based on a fond memory of my hometown bakery in Utica, New York, where I first had this cookie in the fall.


Half Moon Cookie with pumpkin cookie and chocolate and cinnamon frosting


Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Wednesday, September 23, 2026
There is something so comforting about a big pot of homemade chicken soup simmering on the stove, especially when the weather turns chilly, or you need a little extra comfort at the dinner table. This Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup is one of those wonderful meals that brings everyone together with its rich flavor, tender chicken, and delicious little pasta pieces in every spoonful.

Made with simple ingredients like shredded chicken, carrots, celery, sweet onion, garlic, and chicken stock, this soup is full of familiar flavors that remind you of old-fashioned homemade cooking. The addition of orzo pasta makes it hearty and satisfying, while a little milk and flour give the broth a creamy texture without making it overly heavy.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is the Parmesan rind simmered right in the chicken stock. It adds a wonderful savory depth to the broth, making every bite taste like it has been cooking for hours. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving bring everything together beautifully.

This easy chicken orzo soup is perfect for busy weeknights, chilly afternoons, Sunday suppers, or whenever you want a homemade meal that feels extra special. It's also a wonderful way to use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to make dinner easier.

Whether you're serving it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or simply enjoying a warm bowl all by itself, this creamy chicken soup is a comforting recipe you'll want to make again and again.


a delicate creamy chicken with orzo soup


Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Latte

Monday, September 21, 2026
Bring the flavors of fall right into your kitchen with this easy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte!

Made with milk, real pumpkin, vanilla, warm spices, and freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee, this creamy latte is the perfect way to start a chilly morning or enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

The best part? You can make it right in your slow cooker, making it perfect for serving guests, weekend brunch, or whenever you're craving a little pumpkin spice.

It makes two extra-large mugs, so there's plenty to share!

Top it with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and your favorite drizzle of caramel or hot fudge for a coffeehouse-style treat without leaving home.

One taste of the real deal here, and this will be your new favorite fall coffee for sure!



a delicious spiced coffee made with pumpkin in a slow cooker topped with whipped cream cinnamon and sugar called a pumpkin spiced latte