Yes, we may enjoy the stress-relieving benefits of an adult beverage, and surely imbibe a few more than is strictly practical on occasion, but at the holidays more than ever, cocktails are about more than the buzz. It’s about the ritual. I enjoy the interesting ingredients, creative recipes and pretty presentation, the celebratory atmosphere and chilling out with friends. Cocktails offer something to do with your hands at a party without the awkwardness that can come from social noshing. This time of year, the nostalgia that comes with having the same drink at the same event every year (Hello, champagne at midnight NYE!) is potent. At the winter holidays, I’m stoked to say cheers!
Be That Girl
You know, the person who makes everyone “cheers” before starting their drinks? Be her! It may get some eye rolls, but the tradition really does make you pause to appreciate the moment, anticipate the merry-making to come, and take note of the individuals in attendance instead of just one seething mass of party.
The other girl you want to be? The one with all the fabulous cocktail recipes up her sleeve. You don’t have to be a professional-level mixologist to create these recipes, nor do you have to spend all your time bartending. There’s plenty that don’t even require a cocktail shaker. Gain a reputation as a cocktail genius and your soirees will be a must-attend! Try out some of these and we dare your guests not to be impressed.
baconandlegs.com
Chocolate Pumpkin Pie Martini
Can you think of more delicious things to combine in one recipe than chocolate, pumpkin pie and martinis? I cannot. The Bacon and Legs blog seems to agree as they are responsible for this alcoholic confection. This drink is best for when you’re just having a few people over for drinks and aren’t trying to cook dinner at the same time or serve drinks to a lot of people at a big party. Unless you’re hiring a bartender. And I hate when articles assume that regular people hire bartenders for parties all the time. Obviously, you don’t have to make all the cute garnishes and that would simplify the recipe a ton, but they seem like half the point to me!
Here are the deets:
- 2 parts pumpkin cream liqueur
- 1 part cookie dough vodka
- 1 part Baileys
- 1 part creme de cacao
- whipped cream, cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice and chocolate shavings to garnish
Dump alcohol and a couple ice cubes into a cocktail shaker. Shake gently. Pour into a martini glass and garnish.
Additional garnish suggestion: chunks of festive fall cookies sandwiched with pumpkin cream cheese, skewered on a cocktail pick.
Via Bacon and Legs.
