This October, instead of being bummed about Summer's departure, I've decided to get excited for Fall. I've changed the background on my phone to an image of autumnal flowers, I've searched FabSugar for Fall-look inspiration, I've decorated my house with white pumpkins, and most importantly, I've starting sipping this apple cocktail.

Apples are a quintessential ingredient at this time of year, thus a stimulating concoction made with apple cider and dark rum seems seasonally appropriate. Although the recipe is very easy, the resulting drink is complex, refreshing, and delicious. I recommend using a dark, rich rum like Jamaica's Appleton; it adds a welcoming depth of flavor. To embrace Fall, mix this cocktail!

This isn't a trick readers, so get excited, I've got a treat for you: For the month of October we're going macaroni and cheese crazy! There's nothing quite as comforting as a plate full of gooey, cheesy macaroni with a crispy topping, which is why we'll be featuring our favorite mac and cheese recipes for the next four weeks.

To kick things off, I made this savory and somewhat classic macaroni and three cheeses. Parmesan, white cheddar, and Gorgonzola are combined with a onion-infused béchamel. The addition of Worcestershire sauce may seem odd, but I assure you, it gives a subtle tang to the sauce and mellows out the pungency of the blue cheese.

There's only one problem with this mac and cheese. It's incredibly delicious and if you aren't careful, you may end up eating too much of it at once! Yes, I'm speaking from experience. To check out the recipe, read more

When planning a tailgate, start by checking out your team's online shop. You can find all sorts of fun stuff like folding chairs and snack helmets, which are ideal for holding shrimp artichoke dip. Then head to a local party store to pick up color-coordinated supplies: paper plates, napkins, plastic cups, and balloons.

Pack a folding table and tablecloth in your trunk and ask a guest to bring a bouquet of flowers. To ensure that they don't get crushed, store the oatmeal cookies in tupperware. Don't forget a knife and cutting board so you can slice the sandwiches and quesadillas.

What do you bring when tailgating?

Pizza is my ultimate comfort food. I can't get enough crispy crust and melted cheese. I also enjoy making pizza at home. With the help of a store-bought dough, it can be quick and uncomplicated to throw together.

This recipe is for mushroom lovers. It tops the dough with caramelized onions and tons of sauteed mushrooms. To start your weekend by chowing down on this pizza, check out the recipe and read more

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• An inside look at the ultimate New York City pop-up event. — The Epi-Log
• Who knew Tom Colicchio had so many lookalikes? — Eater
• Madonna is "not a cheese person." — Grub Street
• Alton Brown disses his fellow Food Network chefs. — Food Network Humor