Spiced Apple Cider
Spiced apple cider is a warm, festive beverage perfect for cozy fall gatherings and chilly evenings. This comforting drink combines the sweetness of apples with fragrant spices, creating a delightful and aromatic experience. It can be prepared in about 30 minutes and is simple enough for beginner chefs to master.
Ingredients:
- 2 quarts apple cider
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 6 whole allspice berries
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 star anise (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and brown sugar.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
- Once steaming, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in vanilla extract and optionally, the star anise, then remove from heat.
- Strain the cider to remove the spices and orange slices before serving.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a unique twist, you can substitute apple cider with pear cider or a mixture of both for different flavor profiles. Honey can replace brown sugar for a more natural sweetener, or you can use maple syrup for a rich taste. Fresh ginger slices can also be added for an extra kick.
Variations:
You can customize this spiced apple cider by adding different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom. For a boozier version, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon once the cider is finished cooking.
Another fun twist is to serve the cider chilled over ice for a rejuvenating take on the traditional warm drink.
Cooking Tips:
To enhance the flavor, you can let the cider simmer longer, even up to an hour, on very low heat. Be cautious about letting it boil since that can evaporate the aromatic oils that contribute to the drink’s richness.
For added depth, consider using fresh or dried fruit slices like cranberries or pears in addition to the orange.
Drinks to Pair With:
Spiced apple cider pairs beautifully with snacks like cinnamon sugar donuts or cheddar cheese. It can also complement seasonal cocktails, such as a caramel apple martini or a spiked hot chocolate, making it a versatile beverage for all occasions during the fall.
Enjoy it alongside hearty meals like roasted pork or Thanksgiving turkey for a cohesive flavor experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte
Pumpkin spice latte is a beloved seasonal beverage that captures the essence of fall with its warming spices and creamy texture. Perfect for chilly mornings or a cozy afternoon treat, this delicious drink can be made in about 15 minutes and is suitable for all skill levels in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or espresso
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat.
- Whisk the mixture until it’s hot and frothy, but do not let it boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- In a coffee mug, pour the brewed coffee or espresso, followed by the pumpkin milk mixture.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a dairy-free version, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
If you prefer a healthier sweetener, consider using maple syrup or honey instead of sugar.
You can also use homemade pumpkin spice blend if you have your own mix on hand.
Variations:
To add a twist to your pumpkin spice latte, try incorporating flavored syrups such as caramel or hazelnut for a unique taste.
You can also use cold brew coffee instead of hot coffee for an iced version, perfect for those who enjoy their drinks chilled.
For an extra indulgent treat, add a dash of chocolate or espresso for a mocha pumpkin spice latte.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure to use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor, or canned puree if you’re short on time.
Whisking the milk mixture well helps to create that creamy foam characteristic of a café-style latte.
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can easily make your own by blending cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice.
Drinks to Pair With:
Pumpkin spice latte pairs well with seasonal snacks like pumpkin muffins, biscotti, or gingerbread cookies.
For a complete fall experience, consider enjoying it alongside a slice of warm apple pie or a classic cranberry scone.
It also complements savory dishes such as quiche or a hearty breakfast sandwich, making it a delightful addition to any autumn meal.
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Warm Caramel Apple Cider
Warm caramel apple cider is a delightful fall beverage that combines the sweetness of caramel with the classic flavor of apple cider, making it a perfect companion for cold autumn days.
With just 10 minutes of preparation time and a simple process, this drink is suitable for all skill levels and is certain to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Optional: apple slices for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the apple cider over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Stir in the caramel sauce, ground cinnamon, and the cinnamon stick. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and pour the warm cider into mugs.
- Top each mug with whipped cream and drizzle additional caramel sauce on top. Add apple slices for garnish, if desired.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a healthier twist, consider using unsweetened apple juice or cider instead of regular apple cider, and opt for sugar-free caramel sauce.
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute whipped cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping.
Variations:
You can enhance your warm caramel apple cider by adding a splash of spiced rum for an adult version.
Additionally, experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or cloves will give it a unique flair. For an extra touch of sweetness, try adding caramel-flavored vodka.
Cooking Tips:
To guarantee the best flavor, use fresh apple cider from local markets if available.
Stirring the drink while it simmers helps to fully integrate the caramel and spices. For added texture, consider blending your cider with a frother before serving for a frothy finish.
Drinks to Pair With:
Warm caramel apple cider pairs wonderfully with seasonal snacks such as apple crisp, pumpkin pie, or caramel popcorn.
It also complements savory dishes like a warm brie cheese with crackers or a classic grilled cheese sandwich, making it an excellent addition to cozy fall gatherings.
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Maple Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
Maple cinnamon hot chocolate is a warm and cozy beverage that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This rich and creamy chocolate drink is enhanced with the sweetness of maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon, providing a delightful twist on the classic hot chocolate.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and an easy difficulty level, this recipe is perfect for any skill level, making it a great treat for chilly days or festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Optional: maple syrup for drizzling
Cooking Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Continue to heat the mixture, whisking occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until it is hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream and drizzle with additional maple syrup if desired.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of maple syrup or use a sugar-free syrup alternative. Additionally, for a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of unsweetened.
Variations:
For a little extra warmth, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
You can also experiment by incorporating flavored extracts such as almond or peppermint for a seasonal twist. For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or whiskey can be added to enhance the flavors.
Cooking Tips:
To guarantee your hot chocolate is perfectly smooth, whisk vigorously to combine all ingredients, especially the cocoa powder, which can clump if not mixed well.
Be careful not to let the milk boil, as it can scorch or create an undesirable texture. If you’d like, blend the mixture briefly with an immersion blender for a frothy final product.
Drinks to Pair With:
Maple cinnamon hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with sweet treats like chocolate chip cookies or gingerbread cookies.
It also complements savory snacks such as toasted nuts or a warm cheese platter featuring Brie and crackers for a delightful afternoon or evening snack.
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Chai Tea With a Twist
Chai Tea with a Twist is a fragrant and comforting beverage that warms the soul during the fall season. This inventive take on traditional chai tea combines aromatic spices with an unexpected ingredient to create a deliciously unique drink. With a preparation time of 20 minutes and a difficulty level of easy, it’s an excellent choice for both novice and experienced home cooks looking to add a bit of flair to their autumn drink repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 2 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4-6 green cardamom pods, slightly crushed
- 4-6 whole cloves
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (to taste)
- 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Optional: whipped cream or frothed milk for topping
Cooking Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the black tea bags, cinnamon stick, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, and sliced ginger to the boiling water.
- Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the brown sugar and continue stirring until dissolved.
- Add milk and vanilla extract to the mixture, and heat until warmed through but not boiling.
- Strain the chai into mugs and top with whipped cream or frothed milk if desired.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a dairy-free version, substitute cows’ milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. You can adjust the sweetness of the chai by using honey or agave syrup instead of brown sugar.
For a caffeine-free option, consider using a herbal tea blend instead of black tea.
Variations:
To enhance the flavor, try adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of almond or hazelnut extract. For an adult twist, a shot of spiced rum or bourbon can complement the spices beautifully, making it perfect for an evening gathering.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure to let the spices steep long enough to infuse their flavors into the tea, but be careful not to let the mixture come to a boil after adding the milk to prevent scorching.
Using an immersion blender can also create a lovely frothy texture that adds an indulgent touch to your chai.
Drinks to Pair With:
Chai Tea with a Twist pairs wonderfully with baked goods such as chai-spiced cookies, pumpkin bread, or scones.
Additionally, it complements savory snacks like savory pastries, making it a well-rounded beverage for a cozy gathering or afternoon treat.
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Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine
Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine is a warm, festive beverage that captures the essence of fall and holiday gatherings. This delightful drink combines the tartness of cranberries with the brightness of orange and the warmth of spices, creating a cozy experience perfect for chilly evenings.
With a preparation time of 15 minutes and an easy difficulty level, it’s an accessible choice for anyone looking to elevate their autumn drink offerings.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar (to taste)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4-6 whole cloves
- Optional: fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, cranberry juice, sliced orange, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
- Slowly heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it is warm, but do not allow it to boil.
- Once heated, reduce the heat to low and let the mulled wine simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Strain the mixture into mugs, discarding the orange slices and spices, and garnish with fresh cranberries and orange slices if desired.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
You can customize your mulled wine by using different types of wine, such as a sweet Riesling or even a fruity sparkling wine for a different flavor profile.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the red wine with grape juice or non-alcoholic red wine.
Variations:
For a spicier version, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a sprig of fresh rosemary.
You can also experiment with different fruits such as apple slices or pomegranate seeds to add variety to the flavor.
For an adult twist, you might float a shot of brandy in each mug.
Cooking Tips:
Be careful not to let the wine boil, as this can cook off the alcohol and change the flavor profile.
If you’re looking for added depth, allow the mulled wine to simmer longer, and consider preparing it in advance; the flavors deepen over time.
Drinks to Pair With:
Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine pairs beautifully with holiday appetizers such as cheese platters, charcuterie, or savory pastries.
It also complements traditional holiday sweets like gingerbread cookies, pumpkin pie, or spiced nuts, enhancing the festive atmosphere of any gathering.
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Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum is a classic warm cocktail that embodies the cozy, indulgent spirit of autumn and winter. This rich and flavorful drink combines spiced rum with a buttery, sweet mixture, delivering a comforting experience that’s perfect for chilly nights.
With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and an easy difficulty level, it’s a simple yet luxurious treat to savor after a long day.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz spiced rum
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Hot water
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
- Optional: cinnamon stick for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In a mug, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Pour in the spiced rum, and stir to combine with the butter mixture.
- Fill the mug with hot water, leaving some space at the top, and stir well until everything is melted and incorporated.
- If desired, top with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
Feel free to substitute the spiced rum with regular rum if you prefer a milder flavor. For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
Additionally, you can use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweet profile.
Variations:
Experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist or a splash of apple cider for a fruitier rendition.
You can also make it a frozen drink by blending the ingredients with ice for a rejuvenating twist on a classic hot drink.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure the water is hot but not boiling when you add it to the mug to guarantee a smooth mixing of the ingredients without making the drink too watery.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the sugar according to your preference, and confirm all butter is melted for a silky texture.
Drinks to Pair With:
Hot Buttered Rum pairs wonderfully with cozy snacks such as baked goods, including muffins, scones, or spiced cookies.
It also complements savory appetizers like roasted nuts or cheese, enhancing the comforting atmosphere during gatherings or quiet evenings by the fireplace.
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Gingerbread Latte
Gingerbread Latte is a warm and inviting beverage that captures the essence of the holiday season with its spicy and sweet flavors. This delightful drink combines coffee, steamed milk, and gingerbread spices, creating a comforting cup that’s perfect for chilly days. With a preparation time of approximately 15 minutes and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, it’s a wonderful treat to enjoy at home or impress your guests with.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tbsp molasses
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp sugar (to taste)
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
- Optional: crushed gingerbread cookies for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Brew your espresso or strong coffee and set it aside.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming, without letting it boil.
- Stir in the molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk, if desired, to create a creamy texture.
- In a large mug, pour the brewed coffee and then add the spiced milk mixture on top, stirring gently to combine.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with crushed gingerbread cookies, if using.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a dairy-free version, use oat milk, almond milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice. You can also adjust the molasses amount or substitute it with maple syrup for a lighter flavor.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar or skip it altogether.
Variations:
To switch up your Gingerbread Latte, try adding a splash of vanilla extract for an extra dimension of flavor or a bit of cocoa powder for a mocha twist.
For those looking for a fun twist, consider making it iced by allowing the coffee to cool, then mixing it with chilled milk over ice.
Cooking Tips:
Make certain to froth the milk just until it is warm and creamy instead of boiling, as overheating can affect the texture and taste.
Taste test your mixture before serving to confirm it’s sweetened to your liking, and feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preference.
Drinks to Pair With:
Gingerbread Latte pairs beautifully with holiday treats such as gingerbread cookies, biscotti, or a slice of spiced cake.
It also enhances the experience of cozying up with a good book or enjoying a festive gathering with friends and family.
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Vanilla Bean Hot Toddy
Vanilla Bean Hot Toddy is a soothing and aromatic beverage perfect for chilly evenings. Infused with the warm notes of vanilla and a touch of honey, this comforting drink is ideal for relaxation and unwinding after a long day.
With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, it’s a delightful option to enjoy on your own or serve to guests during gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 oz whiskey (or bourbon)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or 1 inch fresh vanilla bean
- Squeeze of lemon juice
- Optional: cinnamon stick for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Boil water and let it cool slightly before pouring it into a mug.
- Add the whiskey, honey, and vanilla extract (or the scraped seeds from the fresh vanilla bean) to the hot water.
- Stir the mixture well until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Squeeze in lemon juice to taste.
- If desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a non-alcoholic version, you can simply replace whiskey with an extra cup of hot water or herbal tea of your choice.
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to add more honey or use maple syrup as an alternative sweetener.
Variations:
To customize your Vanilla Bean Hot Toddy, you could experiment with flavored teas instead of plain hot water, such as chamomile or ginger tea for added warmth.
Additionally, try adding a few cloves or a slice of fresh ginger for a spicier kick.
Cooking Tips:
Ensure the water is hot but not boiling, as overly hot water can burn off some of the delicate flavors.
Adjust the sweetness by tasting as you go, adding honey gradually until you achieve your desired level of sweetness.
Drinks to Pair With:
This Vanilla Bean Hot Toddy pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm apple pie, a cozy blanket, or a good book.
It’s also ideal alongside a cheese platter or even spiced nuts for a delightful snack experience on a cold night.
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Butternut Squash Soup Smoothie
Butternut Squash Soup Smoothie is a delicious and nutritious drink that brings the comforting flavors of fall into a rejuvenating and creamy blend. This unique smoothie is perfect for a healthy breakfast or a quick snack option. With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and an easy difficulty level, it’s accessible for anyone looking to indulge in seasonal flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked butternut squash (cooled)
- 1 banana
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
- Ice cubes (to taste)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the cooked butternut squash, banana, almond milk, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, and chia seeds.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if you prefer a colder and thicker consistency.
- Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup, if desired.
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a creamier texture, you can swap almond milk with coconut milk or yogurt. If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup would be sweet alternatives.
Adding other fruits like apples or pears can also enhance the flavor profile.
Variations:
To switch up the flavor, try adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder for added nutrition or a handful of spinach for a greens boost without altering the taste too much.
You can also sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch.
Cooking Tips:
Ensure that the butternut squash is fully cooked and cooled before adding it to the blender for a smooth consistency.
Blend the ingredients thoroughly to avoid any lumps and keep the smoothie creamy. Adjust the spices according to your preference for either a more pronounced flavor or a subtle hint.
Drinks to Pair With:
This Butternut Squash Soup Smoothie pairs beautifully with a warm spiced chai latte or apple cider, creating the perfect cozy drink combination for a fall brunch.
It’s also delightful alongside a slice of whole grain toast or a pumpkin muffin for a wholesome breakfast experience.
Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate
Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate is a decadent, creamy drink that captures the essence of fall with its rich flavors and warm, comforting texture. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this indulgent treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare and is simple enough for anyone to whip up in their kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (whole, almond, or any preferred milk)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Stir in the white chocolate chips and caramel sauce, whisking until completely melted and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, mixing well.
- Reduce heat to low and keep the mixture warm for a minute or two.
- Pour into mugs and top generously with whipped cream and a drizzle of additional salted caramel sauce.
Ingredient Suggestions & Replacements:
For a lighter version, you can use skim milk or a non-dairy substitute like oat milk.
If you don’t have white chocolate chips, you could replace them with a white chocolate bar chopped into pieces. Adding a touch of brown sugar can also enhance the caramel flavor if you don’t have caramel sauce on hand.
Variations:
To give your salted caramel white hot chocolate a little extra flair, you can mix in a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced twist.
Alternatively, consider adding a shot of espresso or coffee for a delightful caffeinated version, or infuse peppermint extract for a festive holiday vibe.
Cooking Tips:
Always keep an eye on the milk while heating to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or scalding.
Stirring continuously while adding the white chocolate and caramel sauce helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Adjust the amount of caramel sauce and salt to suit your taste preference.
Drinks to Pair With:
This Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate is delightful when paired with a slice of pumpkin spice bread or a warm apple turnover.
It also complements a spiced chai latte perfectly, offering a sweet and warming contrast that embodies the flavors of fall all in one cozy gathering.
