Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Radio Our Haunted Podcast! Witches' Brew, The Candy Store Ghost, and The Secret History of Jack-o'-Lanterns
Oct 24, 2025
In this spooktacular discussion, pastry chef Stella Parks shares baking tips and Halloween candy preferences, while candy historian Susan Benjamin dives into the ghostly tales from her candy shop. They explore the mischievous origins of jack-o'-lanterns, the eerie transition of candy from medicine to kid culture, and the marketing tricks behind iconic sweets. Listeners also get insights into Day of the Dead celebrations from Oaxacan tour guide Gabriel Sánchez, making it a hauntingly sweet treat!
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Jack-o'-Lanterns' Unexpected Origins
- The jack-o'-lantern evolved from marsh lights and a prank tradition, not directly from Stingy Jack or Halloween.
- Carved pumpkins became Halloween decor only after 19th-century party culture brought outdoor harvest items indoors.
Use Yogurt Or Neutral Bases For Savory Breads
- Replace banana puree with Greek yogurt to retain structure and reduce sweetness when exploring savory quick breads.
- Or build a neutral soda-bread or cornbread base to accept olives, cheese, or bacon without heavy sugar.
Dry The Dough And Stabilize Apple Fillings
- To crisp a dense cookie-like dough, cut back sugar and remove one egg to reduce retained moisture.
- Cook or pre-treat apple filling and use instant tapioca or flour to absorb extra liquid.
