Double, double toil and trouble! While witches and goblins are cooking up their devilish brews, you can get your caldron bubbling with some fun concoctions of your own. I’ve collected a few spells-- er, I mean, recipes for some yummy beverages made with fresh ingredients that are perfect for a classy Halloween party or an evening in with your family.

Pumpkin Banana Smoothie

This is a fun and frothy beverage that your whole family will enjoy. If you’re looking to lower the calories, try it with skim milk instead of whole milk.

3 cups cold milk
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
3 sliced bananas
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Blend until thick and frothy. Serve in chilled glasses… or a cleaned out pumpkin!

Bloody Mary

What could be more Halloween-y than a Bloody Mary? Instead of buying a mix, make your own from fresh ingredients. You’ll notice a big difference in taste.

1 jigger of Vodka (1 1/2 ounces)
1/2 cup Tomato juice
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
2 shakes Worcestershire sauce
2 shakes Tabasco
Sea salt & fresh ground pepper to taste
Pinch of celery seeds
Ice cubes
2 lime wedges
Celery stick (with leaves)

Combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt, pepper, celery seed, and 1 cup of ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Shake to mix well. Strain into a glass filled with the ice. Squeeze lime juice over the top of the drink. Garnish with a lime wedge and celery stick.

Warm Apple Cider

Perfect for a brisk autumn evening! Check your local farmer’s market for some freshly made apple cider. Looking for a more adult beverage? Add 1 ½ cups light rum.

1 quart apple cider
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon whole cloves
1 small cinnamon stick
pinch of salt

Simmer the ingredients in a saucepan for 20 to 30 minutes. Serve in a warm mug. If you’d like, add whipped cream and sprinkle cinnamon on top.

Planning your Halloween dinner menu? Check out these freaky food ideas.

Photo Credit - Sami Keinänen