With the arrival of autumn’s crisp, cool temperatures comes an air of excitement and anticipation for fall activities and the coming holiday months. We’ve traded in the tart and citrusy tastes of summer for the warmth and comfort of more savory spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove.

As the days begin to get shorter, nothing is more appealing at this time of year than cozying up inside with family and friends to share a warm meal. And as Oct. 31 gets closer, planning out the perfect Halloween get-together is high on the agendas of many.

Use these four autumn-inspired recipes to capture the celebratory essence of fall and bring everyone together around the dinner or snack table.

Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Lattes

These days, fall is 100 percent synonymous with the now infamous PSL. This beloved beverage will be a raving hit at any group gathering (especially where the female head-count is high), like a book club meeting, baby shower, or girl’s night in.

Harry Potter-Inspired Pumpkin Cheddar Pasties

Every Harry Potter fan knows that pumpkin pasties are a savory staple of the wizarding world, especially on the train ride to Hogwarts at the beginning of the fall semester. Bake these beauties for a Harry Potter-themed Halloween party and prepare to seriously impress your party guests.

Decadent Salted Caramel Sauce

Did you know making your own thick, store-quality salted caramel sauce is super easy and only requires four ingredients? Up your fall game with this amazing recipe, and drizzle homemade caramel sauce over those crockpot pumpkin spice lattes, cupcakes, brownies … anything you want, really!

Pasta with Butternut-Sage Sauce

The smell of this sauce as it’s simmering is pure autumn heaven; fill your home with the scent of fall and prepare to go back for seconds — maybe even thirds.