Recipes 119

As the holiday season approaches, indulging in cocktails can often take a sweet turn. However, with a little guidance, you can integrate chocolate into your drinks without overwhelming their flavor profiles.

Chocolate is renowned for its versatility, bringing rich, complex flavors that can enhance many recipes. Mixologist Lynnette Marrero suggests using high-quality dark chocolate, specifically with 70% cocoa or higher. This variety provides an intense flavor with low sugar, making it an ideal choice for balancing cocktails.

There are numerous ways to incorporate chocolate into drinks. Options include chocolate bitters or crème de cacao, but Marrero also recommends using high-quality chocolate powders or cacao nibs for infusion. To infuse your spirits, simply mix a quarter cup of cacao nibs with several cups of your chosen alcohol, allowing it to steep for a few days to achieve the desired flavor strength.

Whether you’re looking to sweeten a classic cocktail like a mint julep with chocolate-infused bourbon, or exploring unique recipes like a chocolate martini, the key is to maintain a balance. The right amount of chocolate can elevate the drink without overshadowing it, allowing you to enjoy the delightful addition of this rich ingredient.

For those intrigued by the endless possibilities of chocolate in cocktails, trying a straightforward chocolate martini might be the perfect starting point. The mix of vodka and cacao flavors emphasizes chocolate without letting it be too dominant.

For a deeper dive into creating chocolate cocktails, you can refer to recipes and more detailed guidance through various cocktail websites. Happy mixing!

Christmas is a time filled with rituals, where traditions like putting up the tree and baking cookies take center stage. Amidst the festivities, cocktails become essential, with gin standing out as a versatile and botanical spirit that’s perfect for holiday celebrations.

Why gin? Its juniper-forward flavor mirrors the fresh, piney scent of Christmas trees, while its herbal and citrus notes complement seasonal flavors. Gin can be paired with warming spices, bright citrus, and sweet ingredients, providing a refreshingly light alternative to heavier holiday drinks.

Gin cocktails are not only creative but also appealing to a wide range of tastes. A classic Gin and Tonic can be enhanced with pomegranate seeds and rosemary, while a Negroni adds a festive twist with spiced orange liqueur. For those who prefer warm cocktails during the colder months, a hot gin punch infused with spices and citrus offers a comforting option.

Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, there’s a gin cocktail suitable for every occasion. Here are some festive gin cocktail recipes to elevate your holiday celebrations:

Big Sur Sunset

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Gray Whale Gin
• 1 part Lemon juice
• 0.75 parts Raspberry syrup
• 0.5 parts Orgeat
• 1 Egg white (optional)
• Fresh raspberries for garnish

Directions:Shake all ingredients with ice and fine strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with raspberries.

Raspberry Highball

Ingredients:

• 1.25 parts Silent Pool Gin
• 0.5 parts Dry Vermouth
• 0.75 parts Fresh Lemon Juice
• 0.25 parts Simple Syrup
• 1 Egg white
• 1 Tbsp Seedless Raspberry Jam
• 3 parts Ginger Ale

Directions:Shake all ingredients except ginger ale, pour in ginger ale, and gently pour into a glass. Garnish with raspberry powder.

Bramble

Ingredients:

• 1.5 parts Fords Gin
• 1 part Fresh Lemon Juice
• 0.5 parts Chambord
• 0.5 parts Simple Syrup

Directions:Combine ingredients and serve over crushed ice.

Sweet as Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Aviation American Gin
• 0.75 oz Apple Cider
• 0.5 oz Frangelico
• 0.25 oz Baked Apple Syrup

Directions:Stir all ingredients, strain, and garnish with a lemon twist.

Gin Punch

Ingredients:

• 0.2 oz Revivalist Garden Gin
• 0.75 oz Lemon
• 0.75 oz Simple syrup
• 1–2 oz Chamomile tea

Directions:Shake all ingredients and strain into a rocks glass over ice.

California Cornucopia

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Gray Whale Gin
• 1 part Fresh lemon juice
• 1 part Cranberry juice
• 0.75 part Honey syrup
• 1 Egg white
• Cinnamon powder and star anise for garnish

Directions:Shake with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish.

Gin Buck

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Fords Gin
• 1 part Ginger Syrup
• 0.75 parts Lime Juice
• 1.5 parts Club Soda

Directions:Combine in a glass with ice, stir, and enjoy.

As the holiday season approaches, these gin cocktails can add a sparkling touch to your celebrations. From elegant cocktails to warm, comforting drinks, gin truly shines during this festive time.

December is a month brimming with cheer, marked by the warmth of holiday gatherings and the indulgence of festive cocktails. While there’s no official holiday cocktail for events like Easter or Arbor Day, December is a different story, teeming with unique drinks that celebrate the season.

The magic of December invites indulgence, making it the perfect time for cozy cocktails that help us escape the cold. From Mulled Apple Cider to classic Eggnog, holiday drinks serve not just to warm the body but also to enhance the spirit of the season.

Here are nine delightful cocktails to try this December:

Peanut Malt Flip Cocktail

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz. scotch
  • 1 oz. cream
  • 0.75 oz. simple syrup
  • 1 tbsp. peanut butter
  • 1 egg
• Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker, shake without ice to emulsify the egg, add ice, and shake well. Strain into a glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Hot Toddy

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz. whiskey
  • 0.75 oz. lemon juice
  • 0.75 oz. honey/ginger
  • 4-6 oz. boiling water
• Instructions: Pre-warm a mug with boiling water, then add all ingredients, topping with hot water. Garnish with a lemon slice studded with cloves.

Old Cuban

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. aged rum
  • 0.75 oz. lime juice
  • 0.75 oz. simple syrup
  • 6-8 mint leaves
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • 2 oz. sparkling wine
• Instructions: Shake all ingredients except the wine with ice, strain into a glass, and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with mint.

Boozy Hot Chocolate

• Ingredients:
  • 6 oz. milk or cream
  • 45 g semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1.5 oz. reposado or añejo tequila
• Instructions: Warm milk and sugar, add chocolate, and stir until melted. Pour into a pre-warmed mug with tequila and top with marshmallows.

Eggnog

• Ingredients:
  • 12 egg yolks
  • 18 oz. white sugar
  • 36 oz. whole milk
  • 24 oz. heavy cream
  • 12 oz. aged rum
  • 12 oz. Cognac
  • 8 oz. bourbon
  • ½ tsp. salt
• Instructions: Beat yolks and sugar until light. Add milk, cream, liquor, and salt. Store in the fridge; serve chilled with nutmeg.

Mulled Apple Cider

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Irish whiskey
  • 4.5 oz. hot mulled apple cider
  • 1 oz. unsweetened half-whipped heavy cream
• Instructions: Pour whiskey and cider into a mug, layer with cream, and sprinkle with cinnamon.

French 75

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz. gin
  • 0.5 oz. lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz. simple syrup
  • 3 oz. Champagne
• Instructions: Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, strain into a flute, and top with Champagne.

Brandy Alexander

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Cognac
  • 1 oz. cream
  • 1 oz. crème de cacao
• Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a coupe glass, and garnish with nutmeg.

Spiced Tequila Punch

• Ingredients:
  • 6 oz. spiced syrup
  • 18 oz. añejo tequila
  • 6 oz. Amontillado sherry
  • 6 oz. lemon juice
  • 30 oz. chilled cinnamon tea
• Instructions: Combine all ingredients and serve over ice with garnishes.

These drinks not only add delicious flavors to your holiday gatherings but also embody the spirit of togetherness and joy that defines the season. Cheers to a festive December filled with warmth and wonder!

Adding egg whites to cocktails can transform the texture and appearance of your drinks, creating a frothy, velvety profile. While beneficial, using egg whites can present several challenges. Here’s a guide to avoiding common mistakes when crafting cocktails with this unique ingredient.

Avoiding Common Egg White Cocktail Mistakes

1. Not Using Fresh, Pasteurized Eggs

One major concern with using raw egg whites is the risk of salmonella. To eliminate this risk, always use pasteurized eggs, especially if they’re being served raw in cocktails.

2. Using Cold Eggs

Egg whites are more viscous when cold, making it harder to incorporate air when shaken. Allow your eggs to reach room temperature for better results.

3. Neglecting Flavor Balance

A cocktail’s flavor balance is crucial. While egg white has a neutral taste, it can impart an "eggy" flavor if other ingredients aren’t strong enough. Consider using citrus to enhance flavors and emulsification.

4. Using Too Much Egg White

Different sizes of eggs can lead to varying amounts of egg white. Ideally, use about ½ ounce of egg white per cocktail for the perfect texture.

5. Overlooking Dietary Restrictions

Eggs are not suitable for everyone. Always check with your guests about allergies or dietary preferences before serving cocktails that contain egg whites.

6. Adding Egg White Too Early

Adding egg white too soon, especially to acidic ingredients, can start the cooking process. To avoid this, add the egg last when preparing your cocktail.

7. Cracking Eggs Over the Shaker

Separating eggs over your cocktail shaker can lead to accidents, like broken yolks. Separate them over a glass first to maintain control.

8. Forgetting the Dry-Shake Technique

For the best foam, shake your ingredients without ice first. This process helps incorporate air before chilling and diluting the drink with ice.

9. Not Using the Double-Strain Method

To achieve a smooth texture, always double-strain egg white cocktails. This removes any unwanted solids and ensures a silky mouthfeel.

10. Choosing the Wrong Glassware

A wider glass enhances aroma and allows for a better drinking experience. Opt for a double rocks glass for drinks served over ice, or a coupe glass for straight-up cocktails.

11. Failing to Prep Egg Whites in Advance

For busy bartenders, prepping egg whites ahead of time can save crucial minutes. Use a squeezy bottle for easy dispensing.

12. Skipping Aromatic Garnishes

A garnished cocktail adds visual appeal and enhances the overall sensory experience. Fresh citrus peels or herbs can augment the cocktail’s aroma.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you can craft delicious and impressive egg white cocktails that elevate any gathering. Always remember that the balance of flavors and the right techniques can enhance your cocktail skills dramatically. Enjoy mixing!

Winter has arrived in London, bringing with it festive cheer and a fresh array of seasonal cocktails at cocktail bars throughout the city. As Christmas lights shimmer, establishments are unveiling their creative concoctions for holiday gatherings.

Here are five cocktail recipes shared by notable bars to inspire your after-dinner drinks:

Roasted Chestnut Old-Fashioned from Archive & Myth

This modern twist on the classic Old-Fashioned uses roasted chestnut liqueur instead of sugar and incorporates walnut bitters for a unique flavor. The addition of a pinch of salt enhances its complexity.

Ingredients:

• 50ml (1.7oz) Compass Box Nectarosity (blended Scotch whiskey)
• 20ml (0.7oz) roasted chestnut liqueur
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters (black walnut preferred)
• 1 pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Stir with ice until chilled.
2. Strain into a rocks glass with a clove-studded orange peel.

The Nutcracker from Swift Borough

A luxurious flip cocktail featuring vintage port, hazelnut liqueur, cognac, and a whole egg for a creamy texture, finished with grated nutmeg.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole egg
• 20ml (0.7oz) chestnut liqueur
• 30ml (1oz) port
• 50ml (1.7oz) Hennessy or cognac

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
2. Dry shake first, then shake with ice.
3. Strain into a frozen glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Nougat & Vodka from Twice Shy

Reminiscent of eggnog, this light and enjoyable drink combines homemade nougat vodka with Disaronno, lemon juice, honey, and egg white for a fluffy texture.

Ingredients:

• 50ml (1.7oz) nougat-infused vodka
• 5ml (0.18oz) Disaronno amaretto liqueur
• 15ml (0.5oz) lemon juice
• 10ml (0.25oz) honey
• 15ml (0.5oz) egg white

Directions:

1. Build the cocktail in a shaker then dry shake.
2. Add ice and shake again.
3. Double strain into a rocks glass over ice, garnished with grated nutmeg.

Suzette from Sofitel London St James

Inspired by a classic French crepe, this cocktail mimics a whiskey sour with a beautiful orange-flavored finish.

Ingredients:

• 30ml (1oz) Singleton of Dufftown 12-year-old whisky
• 15ml (0.5oz) Grand Marnier Cuvee Alexandre
• 10ml (0.25oz) Aperol
• 5ml (0.18oz) Discarded Sweet Cascara Vermouth
• 25ml (0.75oz) lemon juice
• 15ml (0.5oz) orange syrup

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker.
2. Shake well and strain over large ice cubes in a rocks glass.
3. Finish with an orange peel garnish.

Ho, Ho, Hot Chocolate from Side Hustle, NoMad London

A rich and indulgent hot cocktail combining chocolatey goodness with Green Chartreuse and Fernet-Branca for a unique flavor blend.

Ingredients:

• 15ml (0.5 oz) Green Chartreuse
• 22ml (0.75 oz) Fernet-Branca
• 150ml (5 oz) hot chocolate base

Directions:

1. Mix hot chocolate with Green Chartreuse and Fernet-Branca.
2. Serve in a teacup or coffee mug.

These festive cocktails promise to add warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy responsibly!

Winter has arrived in London, adorned with Christmas lights, and the city’s cocktail bars are unveiling their festive drink menus. These after-dinner cocktails can add charm to your holiday celebrations, whether enjoyed by a cozy fire or paired with traditional Christmas desserts.

Here are five delightful recipes from notable bars:

Roasted Chestnut Old-Fashioned from Archive & Myth

This hidden speakeasy has put a seasonal twist on the classic Old-Fashioned. Instead of sugar, they use chestnut liqueur and walnut bitters for a nutty flair.

Ingredients:

• 50ml (1.7oz) Compass Box Nectarosity (blended Scotch whiskey)
• 20ml (0.7oz) roasted chestnut liqueur
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters (black walnut preferred)
• 1 pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Stir with ice until chilled.
2. Strain into a rocks glass with a clove-studded orange peel.

The Nutcracker from Swift Borough

This cocktail is a luxurious take on the flip cocktail, featuring vintage port, hazelnut liqueur, and cognac, served with a whole egg for creaminess.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole egg
• 20ml (0.7oz) chestnut liqueur
• 30ml (1oz) port
• 50ml (1.7oz) Hennessy or cognac

Directions:

1. Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Dry shake (no ice) first.
2. Then shake with ice and single strain into a frozen glass. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Nougat & Vodka from Twice Shy

This winter favorite is reminiscent of eggnog and features a nougat-infused vodka.

Ingredients:

• 50ml (1.7oz) nougat-infused vodka
• 5ml (0.18oz) Disaronno amaretto liqueur
• 15ml (0.5oz) lemon juice
• 10ml (0.25oz) honey
• 15ml (0.5oz) egg white

Directions:

1. Build the cocktail in the shaker and dry shake.
2. Add ice and shake again. Double strain into a rocks glass over ice and garnish with grated nutmeg.

Suzette from Sofitel London St James

This cocktail, inspired by the classic French crepe, combines orange notes with whiskey for a festive drink.

Ingredients:

• 30ml (1oz) Singleton of Dufftown 12 year old whisky
• 15ml (0.5oz) Grand Marnier Cuvee Alexandre
• 10ml (0.25oz) Aperol
• 5ml (0.18oz) Discarded Sweet Cascara Vermouth
• 25ml (0.75oz) lemon juice
• 15ml (0.5oz) orange syrup

Directions:

1. Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and single strain over large ice cubes. Finish with an orange peel, squeezing the oil over the glass.

Ho, Ho, Hot Chocolate from Side Hustle, NoMad London

This warm, chocolaty treat is perfect for those who want a cozy drink post-dinner.

Ingredients:

• 15ml (0.5oz) Green Chartreuse
• 22ml (0.75oz) Fernet-Branca
• 150ml (5oz) hot chocolate base

Directions:

1. Pour the hot chocolate over the other ingredients, mix until dissolved, and strain the mixture through a fine strainer. Serve in a glass teacup or coffee mug.

By trying these recipes, you can elevate your holiday gatherings with flavors that celebrate the festive season. Enjoy your cocktails responsibly!

Vancouver is set to be transformed into "Taylor Town" as Taylor Swift’s final Eras Tour concert dates approach from December 6 to 8. The city is welcoming her with themed events, including special food and drink offerings, workshops, and karaoke nights to celebrate this major occasion.

Here are some highlights of the Taylor Swift-inspired culinary scene happening in and around Vancouver:

Eras Food Tour

A guided tour at Granville Island Public Market, the Taylor Swift Eras Food tour features creations such as the Lavender Haze macaron and Sparks Fly Bubble Bombs. Each treat symbolizes different phases of Swift’s career, enhanced by trivia and the chance to make friendship bracelets. This tour runs until December 13.

Taylor Swift ‘Happy Meal’

Win Win Chick-N, known for its fusion of Filipino and Americana cuisine, is offering a special Taycouver combo meal featuring chicken tenders or drumsticks, a side of fries or mac n’ cheese, a Swift-themed sugar cookie, plus a sticker. This combo is available until December 15.

Taylor Cookies and Kelce Cupcakes

Vanilla Bean Bakeshop has rolled out an entire menu inspired by Swift, including a box of chai sugar cookies, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, and cupcakes featuring the Kelce brothers’ cereal. Customers can also indulge in a sparkly Milk Bar Birthday Cake and a chai latte. Pre-order these desserts until December 8.

Sparks Fly Cocktail

Minami, a contemporary Japanese restaurant, introduces the Sparks Fly cocktail, made with locally distilled gin, butterfly pea flower, sake, and lychee liquor, garnished with edible gold glitter—a nod to the Speak Now album. Additionally, there are four other unique Swift-inspired cocktails available until December 8.

Tay-Tay Inspired Concert Concessions

Concert-goers at BC Place can look forward to special concessions, including chai cookies and “seemingly ranch” dipping sauce accompanying chicken strips.

For a complete list of “Taylor-made” events surrounding the final Eras Tour dates, find more details here.

Have you discovered any other Taylor Swift-themed food or drinks in Vancouver that should be shared? Let me know in the comments!

As the holiday season approaches, many people dream of enjoying a cozy evening by the fire with festive cocktails. The days leading up to holiday celebrations often involve hectic schedules filled with baking, shopping, and traveling. To help make that cozy dream a reality, here are some delightful and easy-to-make cocktail recipes perfect for the season.

For those who love the classics, there’s the Eggnog, a rich and creamy drink that’s a must-have for any Christmas gathering. If you’re looking for something warming, try a Hot Toddy, a comforting blend of hot water, whiskey, and soothing spices. For a unique twist, the Caramel Snickerdoodle Martini captures the essence of holiday baking in a glass.

Holiday parties call for signature cocktails, and big-batch drinks like Grinch Punch or Jingle Juice are perfect for this. They can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with guests rather than mixing drinks all evening.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Rum Rum Rudolph offers a fun take on the traditional rum and coke, featuring tart cherry juice for a festive color. For a refreshing option, the Cranberry Paloma combines the flavors of tequila with a vibrant cranberry twist.

Looking for non-alcoholic options? The Not-So-Naughty Jack Frosties are a fun and refreshing choice. Meanwhile, the Eggnog Jell-O Shots bring a playful flair to your holiday gatherings.

For those wanting to indulge their sweet tooth, the Peppermint Bark Mimosas and Cranberry Jell-O Shots are sure to delight. And who can resist a warming Hot Buttered Rum or a frosty Jack Frostie?

Don’t forget to pair these cocktails with appetizers to keep the festivities going. Whether you opt for simple bites or more elaborate dishes, savory snacks are ideal when serving cocktails.

This season, embrace the festivities with these exciting cocktail recipes and create lasting memories with family and friends. Happy holidays!

Featured Cocktails:

• Eggnog
• Hot Toddy
• Grinch Punch
• Rum Rum Rudolph
• Peppermint Bark Mimosas
• Cranberry Jell-O Shots

Transforming your cocktails for a New Year’s Eve bash can be simple and fun, especially with the touch of edible glitter. This food-safe decoration is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to match it with your cocktail of choice. Adding glitter elevates your drinks from ordinary to extraordinary, making them perfect for a celebration.

For a crowd-pleasing option, consider making a batch of Ina Garten’s iconic Cosmopolitan enhanced with some pink edible glitter. Other creative ideas include spiking Negronis with red glitter, swirling orange glitter into homemade spiced apple cider, or sprinkling green glitter into your Margarita mix. You can also turn a classic punch into a glittery centerpiece by adding a sprinkle of shimmer.

If you’re not planning to mix cocktails from scratch, use edible glitter to enhance a DIY drink station. Serve store-bought juices like cranberry and lemonade with a touch of sparkle, alongside a selection of liquors and mixers for guests to create their own festive drinks.

Beyond drinks, edible glitter can add flair to garnishes. Brushing glitter onto dehydrated citrus or fresh fruit makes for an elegant presentation. It can also be used on classic cocktails—try adding some glitter to olives for an eye-catching garnish for Martinis or mix it into salt or sugar rims.

An especially charming application of edible glitter is for the midnight toast on New Year’s Eve. Sprinkle some gold or silver glitter into the bottom of your champagne flutes, and watch it dance as you pour the sparkling wine, enhancing the celebratory moment right from the first sip.

For more festive cocktail inspirations, explore this exploration of unusual craft cocktail ingredients to keep your New Year’s gathering exciting.

This Cyber Monday, a notable discount has been spotted on the Bev by Black+Decker, often referred to as the "Keurig of cocktails." With a price drop to $169.99 from its original $300, this cocktail-making machine presents an attractive option for those who enjoy mixing drinks without the complicated steps of muddling or measuring ingredients.

Designed to deliver bar-quality cocktails with ease, the Bev requires nothing more than a drink pod and your choice of spirits. While reviews mention that the cocktail quality can vary, the significant discount makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to elevate their home happy hour experience.

For additional details on the Bev cocktail machine and to grab the deal, check out Amazon’s Cyber Monday page.