Is your slow cooker safe to use?

It's time to get cooking. No Images? Click here       Have you ever wondered if it's safe to leave your slow cooker on all day while you're out of the house? Or at night while you sleep? A recent episode of NBC's ugly cry drama "This Is Us" has heightened those fears, so we gathered all the tips you need to put your mind at ease. On a lighter note, we've got some insanely delicious weekend baking inspiration for you, from towering layer cakes to gluten-free goodies. Have a restful, safe and delicious weekend! XO, Kristen   The best birthday cake recipes ever Is a birthday without a cake really a birthday at all? Nothing says “I love you,” or “I love you but I’m afraid to tell you because I fear rejection,” or maybe just “I can tolerate sitting next to you at work pretty well, at least on most days” better than a cake. So take a look through our 75 favorite cake recipes, and make one for someone in your life who has a birthday. Or just make one for yourself. GET THE 75 RECIPES   How safe is your slow cooker? Not sure if and when it's safe to use your slow-cooking appliance? Follow these guidelines from the New York Fire Department. Rough news: The FDNY suggests never leaving your slow cooker unattended. “Someone should always have eyes on the appliance.” If you insist on leaving your slow cooker unattended, you should be certain to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or UL guidelines.  Check your cords regularly. Frayed cords expose electrical wires and create sparks. Stop using older models, especially if the insert is attached to the heating element, rather than being a removable insert.  Unplug your slow cooker when it's not in use, even if it's turned off. This also goes for your toaster ovens and coffee pots. Now go forth safely and make these incredible slow cooker recipes. READ THE FULL STORY FOR MORE DETAILS   Gluten-free desserts you actually want to eat   Trying to cut back on gluten? You'll need dessert recipes designed specifically for gluten-free ingredients. We've got 33 such recipes, and we were extra picky in our selection. No one wants to bite into a gluten-free brownie that tastes like it’s made of paper towels. These picks are nothing but delicious. GET THE RECIPES   Eat on: This Is The World's Best Cake, According To Norway After seeing this, how could anyone disagree? The Greatest Cake America Has Ever Made It comes from Pittsburgh and it gives Norway a run for its money. The Devil's Food Cake Recipe That Everyone Should Have "It's a good thing."    .     No moon dust. No B.S. Just a completely essential daily guide to achieving the good life. Subscribe here. Like what you see? Share it. Can't get enough? You'll also love: HuffPost Must Reads. ©2018 HuffPost | 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 You are receiving this email because you signed up for updates from HuffPost Feedback | Privacy Policy | Unsubscribe    . - - Preferences  |  Unsubscribe