The Haunted Hostess: Adult Halloween Party Ideas

Scary-good party ideas and recipes with grown-up twists.

1 of 14

Have Fun Too

Photo: Thayer Allyson Gowdy; Styling: Miranda Jones

Don't let the kids have all the fun this Halloween! Here are 3 party ideas just for grown-ups with wickedly delicious treats and drinks.

2 of 14

Sophisticated Gothic Soiree

Photo: Thayer Allyson Gowdy; Styling: Miranda Jones

Sophisticated Gothic Soiree Recipe
Celebrate Halloween in style this year with a Gothic-inspired soiree. Forget jack-o-lanterns and use candelabras to set an eerie mood. Upgrade orange paper cups with black goblets.

3 of 14

Spiced Lamb Chops with Rosemary Crumbs

Photo: Thayer Allyson Gowdy; Styling: Miranda Jones

Spiced Lamb Chops with Rosemary Crumbs Recipe
It doesn't all have to be sweet on Halloween. Balance the sweet with spice. These lamb chops are great for cocktail parties since you can eat them one-handed.

4 of 14

Mini Caramel Apples

Photo: Thayer Allyson Gowdy; Styling: Miranda Jones

Mini Caramel Apples Recipe
Forget the big candied apples that make a mess. The kids can get away with it but you can’t. These mini caramel apples are cute and you can eat them in one bite. Dip the bottom of apples in nuts or chocolate chips for an extra crunch.

5 of 14

Tricks with Treats: Lightened Recipes

Photo: Romulo Yanes; Styling: Rachel Haas

Tricks with Treats: Lightened Recipes Recipe
Think outside of the candy-stuffed cauldron. These lightened recipes have fun presentations while offering bold grown-up flavors.

6 of 14

Thai Cashew Brittle

Photo: Romulo Yanes; Styling: Rachel Haas

Thai Cashew Brittle Recipe
Chocolate doesn't always have to be the star of Halloween. Crisp Thai Cashew Brittle combines salty cashews and hot chile paste. Spicy is the new spooky.

7 of 14

Chocolate Marshmallows

Photo: Romulo Yanes; Styling: Rachel Haas

Chocolate Marshmallows Recipe
These homemade chocolate marshmallows are drizzled with dark chocolate for an extra bite. Spear with Honey-Orange Marshmallows and skeleton picks for a chic presentation. Yes, marshmallows can be chic.