Cocktail Hour-Holiday Cocktail Recipe Roundup

In honor of the anniversary of the repeal of the Volstead Act on December 5, 1933...and The Fat Chick's Holiday Shindig last night, this issue of Cocktail Hour brings you all the holiday party beverages you could want! (Until we find more we deem worthy of excitement.)

1-Spice Cider

This cider recipe from SpoonForkBacon combines my favorite apple cider with amazing spices and a splash of bourbon for a grown up twist on an old classic. 

2-Whiskey Punch

Looking for another mass alcohol delivery for a crowd?  Try this Citrus Whiskey Punch from Bon Appetit. Try Power's Irish Whiskey for a smooth taste. 

3-Mimosas

Ah, mimosas.  As we say, they're the classy way to drink before noon.  Think beyond the OJ with these six holiday versions from Delish. 

4-Sangria

While I typically view sangria as a summer drink, this winter version looks absolutely delicious. Check out this Apple Cinnamon Sangria from Better Homes and Gardens  

5-Mulled Wine

Now here is my favorite way to drink wine in the winter-mulled.  Food and Wine has all the tips and tricks you need to make your own.

So there you have it!  But what about hot toddies and buttered rum and wassail and egg nog and all those others?  Check out this article from Real Simple for 9 more classic Christmas cocktails. Heh.  In mutual hangover,  ~K

Cocktail Hour-Cider Apple Mimosa

The First Official Fat Chicks Joint Thanksgiving (trademark pending) has ended, and it was a great success. That said, Holly and I set a very low bar when it comes to accomplishing anything major while we're together, and we didn't eat until almost 9.  (I should also mention, I wound up in the ER two days before, with dehydration (like a Hilton) in the middle an icky stomach bug.)

The one thing that got us through?  These amazing Cider Apple Mimosas.  Check it out.

Technically, it's not actually a mimosa since there's no citrus juice, but it makes it sound pretty and it's rather tasty, so no one will mind.  If someone does, show them the door.  We don't need that kind of negativity.  Here's what you'll need-

Just because it's called a mimosa doesn't mean your kids should miss out!  You can make this with sparkling white grape juice in place of champagne for a kid friendly version.

We used a Moscato champagne, but any other variety will work.  Next time, I'll probably try a Brut, as the Moscato was a bit sweet, especially when paired with cider. 

Our cinnamon and sugar is a pretty even blend, but feel free to add less.  The rim garnish hardens to a lovely crystal crust which was absolutely delicious!  

Look at that!  Doesn't it look tasty?  That garnish looks down right professional! While these were amazing for fall, I was pleased that the favor would work so well for the coming holidays, too!  What an easy, quick, impressive drink to show off, just in time for the party season, and celebrating with friends and familes.  Or by yourself.  On a Tuesday.  In sweats.   Without judgement,  ~K