Recipes 375

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.

Clemente Bar, a new venture stemming from the acclaimed three Michelin star restaurant Eleven Madison Park, presents a cocktail experience that is both accessible and sophisticated. Emphasizing culinary creativity and sustainability, Clemente Bar merges innovative drink crafting with responsible practices, offering patrons a unique and elevated approach to cocktails.

If you’re in charge of mixing cocktails for Thanksgiving, there’s no reason to feel overwhelmed. The mixologists at First for Women have curated a list of fantastic cocktail recipes to elevate your holiday gathering. Whether you prefer something warm and cozy or a refreshing chilled drink, this selection has you covered. Here are ten cocktails that promise to make your Thanksgiving memorable:

1. Apple Cider Spritz

This cocktail combines the sweetness of apple cider with sparkling fizz, creating a delightful drink to enjoy while preparing the feast.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

2. Spiced Cranberry Punch

Perfect for a large crowd, this punch features warm, fruity flavors and is infused with vodka for an extra kick. Make it ahead of time for convenience.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

3. Buttered Rum and Apple Hot Toddy

When the temperature drops, a warm apple hot toddy with butter and spices can be the perfect remedy, taking just 15 minutes to prepare.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

4. Smirnoff Holiday Cosmo

A festive twist on the classic cosmopolitan, this drink features a candy rim and cranberries, offering a deliciously sweet, tart taste.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

5. Sparkling Elderflower Sip

Make a toast with this light and floral drink combining prosecco and elderflower liqueur. It’s perfect for pre-dinner celebrations.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

6. Lemon Rosemary Refresher

This refreshing cocktail blends lemon juice and rosemary, topped with club soda for a fizzy finish that’s sure to please.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

7. Cinnamon Apple-Tini

Delight in the bold flavors of fall with this spiced apple-tini, featuring a sugar rim to enhance every sip.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

8. Honey Bourbon Cider Cocktail

This cocktail mixes honey, bourbon, and cider for a perfectly sweet and warming beverage, great for celebrating with family.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

9. Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Set it and forget it with this mulled wine that brews cozily in your slow cooker, offering a delicious and aromatic option.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

10. Berry-Orange Sangria

Redefine your idea of sangria with this berry and orange-infused recipe, ensuring a refreshing sip any time of the year.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

For more delightful cocktail ideas, explore options for Christmas or try a flavorful Coquito recipe that’s creamy yet egg-free. Enjoy crafting the perfect drinks for a fantastic Thanksgiving celebration!

Thanksgiving is a celebration filled with delicious food, but the drinks can elevate the experience even further. While turkey and sides are essential, serving festive cocktails can make the holiday meal even more special. Whether you’re an experienced mixologist or a novice, there’s a cocktail to suit every taste and skill level—ranging from simple mixers to intricate creations.

Thanksgiving Cocktails to Try

1. French Fall 75

   • Ingredients: Gray Whale Gin, fresh lemon juice, apple cider, honey syrup, and Prosecco.
   • Method: Shake all ingredients except Prosecco with ice, strain, and top with Prosecco.

2. Sparkling Holiday Punch

   • Ingredients: Empress 1908 Gin, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, lime juice, and Prosecco.
   • Method: Combine ingredients in a pitcher. Serve chilled and top with Prosecco.

3. Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

   • Ingredients: Ketel One Vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin allspice syrup, and coffee concentrate.
   • Method: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with pumpkin spice.

4. Autumn Appletini

   • Ingredients: Ketel One Vodka, fresh lemon juice, cinnamon syrup, and apple cider.
   • Method: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain, and garnish with an apple slice.

5. Hard Apple Toddy

   • Ingredients: Dulce Vida Organic Reposado Tequila, hot apple cider, fresh lime juice, and agave.
   • Method: Combine ingredients in a mug and stir. Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.

6. Mezcal Amarás Bitter Love

   • Ingredients: Mezcal Amarás, basil honey, passion fruit, lemon juice, and orange bitters.
   • Method: Mix ingredients, shake with ice, and serve over ice topped with tonic.

7. Dos Maderes Hot Buttered Rum

   • Ingredients: Dos Maderas Rum, butter, demerara sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • Method: Combine ingredients in a heated glass, add boiling water, and garnish.

8. Aviation Gin Espresso Martini

   • Ingredients: Aviation American Gin, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup.
   • Method: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

9. Proper Apple Pie Martini

   • Ingredients: Proper Irish Apple Whiskey, Irish cream liqueur, and cinnamon.
   • Method: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.

For those who prefer convenience, consider serving pre-made cocktails like the Cutwater Spirits Fireside Variety Pack, which offers flavors perfect for the holiday season. Brands like the Cocktail Collection and Betty Booze also provide ready-to-serve options that can add festive flair without the hassle of mixing drinks.

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these cocktail recipes and help your guests enjoy a spirited celebration!

With the holiday season approaching, eggnog is a beloved drink that can easily be transformed into festive cocktails. However, there are several tips to keep in mind to ensure your eggnog cocktails impress your friends and family.

Maintain Flavor Balance

When using eggnog as a cocktail base, remember that it is rich and sweet. To create balance, pair it with spirits that have a bolder profile. Dark, aged liquors like rum, bourbon, or brandy can complement the sweetness without being overpowered. Use liqueurs in moderation to enhance flavors without adding too much sweetness.

Control Alcohol Content

Eggnog’s creamy texture can mask the strength of alcohol, potentially leading to overserving. Focus on incorporating spirits that elevate flavors rather than just adding more alcohol. Liqueurs with lower alcohol content can add depth without overwhelming the drink.

Consider Temperature

While eggnog is typically enjoyed cold, it can also be served warm. However, be cautious when adding other spirits to warm eggnog. Avoid spirits with botanical flavors like gin, as they can taste unpleasant when heated. Stick to aged spirits for better flavor compatibility.

Use Lighter Dairy

To avoid an overly rich cocktail, consider using lighter dairy options. Swapping regular cream for half-and-half or alternative milks can maintain the delicious texture while allowing for easier mixing with other ingredients.

Avoid Acidic Ingredients

Acidic components like citrus can curdle the dairy in eggnog, creating an unappealing texture. If you want to introduce acidity, it’s best to avoid directly mixing it into your eggnog cocktail.

Dilution May Be Necessary

Without proper dilution, your eggnog cocktail may taste too strong. If you’re not shaking or stirring your drink with ice, consider adding a small amount of water or another mixer to bring the flavors into balance.

Prioritize Safety

To prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with raw eggs, always use pasteurized eggs in your recipes. This simple step can help ensure your cocktails are both delicious and safe.

Vegan Options

For guests who don’t consume animal products, consider a plant-based eggnog. Coconut milk can serve as a fantastic base, and aquafaba (chickpea brine) can replicate the frothiness of egg whites in cocktails.

Achieve the Perfect Texture

For a fluffy mouthfeel, explore shaking cocktails with egg whites or aquafaba. Consider using a technique called dry-shaking—first shaking without ice for maximum froth, then adding ice for chilling before serving.

Enhance with Bitters

Bitters can elevate your eggnog cocktails by adding complexity and enhancing the overall flavor. Classic flavors like orange or aromatic bitters work exceptionally well with the creamy richness of eggnog.

Pre-Batching for Convenience

If hosting a gathering, pre-batching your eggnog cocktails can save time. As long as the alcohol content is high enough (over 20%), the mixture can be safely stored in the refrigerator for longer periods.

Choose the Right Glassware

Serving in suitable glassware enhances the drinking experience. Using smaller glasses allows guests to enjoy their drinks without overindulging, and the right shape can enhance aroma and flavor.

Don’t Forget the Garnish

Garnishes not only beautify cocktails but can also accentuate flavors. Consider using a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon to complement the eggnog’s flavor profile. Creative rim options, like graham cracker crumbs or festive sugars, can add a fun touch to your cocktails.

By following these guidelines, you can create delightful eggnog cocktails that will surely impress at your holiday gatherings.