Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1-1/2 ounces elderflower liqueur (St-Germain)
• 3 ounces Prosecco or sparkling wine
• 2 ounces soda water
• Lime slices

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 ounces Scotch
• 1 ounce amaretto
• Orange peel strip

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 1-1/2 ounces vodka
• 3 ounces lemonade
• 1/2 ounce raspberry liqueur
• 3 honeydew melon balls

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces gin
• 1/4 ounce dry vermouth
• 2 ounces tomato water
• Kosher salt, for rim
• Lemon twist or cherry tomato, for garnish (optional)

How to Make a Spritz

The secret to a standout spritz is quality ingredients, which boils down to a great bottle of dry Prosecco and an excellent liqueur. The two should marry a touch of bitterness with complex botanicals.

Ratio-wise, it couldn’t be simpler. Third-generation chef Joe Isidori of New York City’s hotspot Arthur & Sons goes by a 3-2-1 rule. “I go classic: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts liqueur, 1 part soda. That’s your sweet spot,” he says. “You want the bubbles and booze to play nice together but never let one overpower the other.” Temperature matters too. Joe recommends building your spritz over ice, gently stirring and keeping the drink cold.

Let’s talk garnishes. Fresh is typically best—this goes for both fruit and herbs, although dried citrus wheels make a gorgeous addition to these vibrant tipples (and a great excuse to use your dehydrator). “They’re not just for the ‘gram,” says Joe. “They all add aromatics that hit you before the first sip. A good garnish should complement the ingredients and enhance the experience.” Pick up on flavors in the liqueur like we see with orange and Aperol, or go with complementary flavors à la fresh mint leaves in a Hugo spritz.

50 Spritzes for 50 States

Below, I’ve created some basic formulas for making a spritz cocktail based on special liqueurs or flavors from each state. Choose your favorite stemmed cocktail glass, use your prettiest ice cube molds, and spritz away!

West

Alaska Spritz: Prosecco + Pacific Rim Salmonberry Liqueur + Soda + Berries

Arizona Spritz: Prosecco + 505 Spirits Purple People Eater Prickly Pear Liqueur + Soda + Lemon

California Spritz: Prosecco + Greenbar Distillery California Poppy Amaro + Soda

Colorado Spritz: Prosecco + Leopold Bros. Three Chamber Peach Liqueur + Soda + Rosemary sprigs

Hawaii Spritz: Prosecco + Heirloom Liqueurs Pineapple Amaro + Soda + Pineapple wedge + Mint leaves

Idaho Spritz: Prosecco + 44 North Huckleberry Cream Liqueur + Soda + Berries

Montana Spritz: Prosecco + Glacier Distilling Co. Huckleberry Liqueur + Soda + Berries

Nevada Spritz: Prosecco + Ferino Amer + Soda + Orange

New Mexico Spritz: Prosecco + Grove Street Hatch Chile Liqueur + Soda + Lime

Oregon Spritz: Prosecco + Clear Creek Marionberry Liqueur + Soda + Blackberries

Utah Spritz: Prosecco + Ogden’s Own Underground Liqueur + Soda + Orange

Washington Spritz: Prosecco + Whidbey Blackberry Liqueur + Soda + Blackberries + Mint leaves

Wyoming Spritz: Prosecco + Mt. Defiance Cassis Liqueur + Soda + Mint leaves

Midwest

Illinois Spritz: Prosecco + Jeppson’s Malört + Soda + Red grapefruit

Indiana Spritz: Prosecco + Apologue Persimmon Liqueur + Soda + Orange

Iowa Spritz: Prosecco + Revelton Mulberry Flavored Gin + Soda + Berries + Mint leaves

Kansas Spritz: Prosecco + Wood Hat Black Walnut Liqueur + Soda + Apple

Michigan Spritz: Prosecco + Long Road Distillers Michigan Cherry Liqueur + Soda + Red cherries + Thyme sprigs

Minnesota Spritz: Prosecco + Vikre Apertivo Classico + Soda + Orange

Missouri Spritz: Prosecco + J. Rieger Caffe Amaro + Soda + Lemon

Nebraska Spritz: Prosecco + Sweet Blondie’s Butter Brickle Liqueur + Soda

North Dakota Spritz: Prosecco + Willie’s Distillery Choke Cherry Liqueur + Soda

Ohio Spritz: Prosecco + Munyon’s Paw Paw + Soda + Lemon

South Dakota Spritz: Prosecco + Apologue Aronia Liqueur + Soda + Berries

Wisconsin Spritz: Prosecco + Great Lakes Distillery Good Land Cranberry Liqueur + Cranberries + Rosemary sprigs

Northeast

Connecticut Spritz: Prosecco + Wild Moon Birch Liqueur + Soda + Cranberries

Maine Spritz: Prosecco + Blueshine Blueberry Liquor + Soda + Blueberries

Massachusetts Spritz: Prosecco + GrandTen Craneberry Liqueur + Soda + Cranberries + Lavender

New Hampshire Spritz: Prosecco + Devil’s Footprint Apple Liqueur + Soda + Apples + Thyme sprigs

New Jersey Spritz: Prosecco + Blue Rascal Blueberry Liqueur + Soda + Blueberries + Mint leaves

New York Spritz: Prosecco + Empire Apple Liqueur + Soda + Apple + Cinnamon stick

Pennsylvania Spritz: Prosecco + Dr. McGillicuddy’s Root Beer Liqueur + Soda + Mint leaves

Rhode Island Spritz: Prosecco + Boston Harbor Distillery Coffee Liqueur + Soda + Lemon

Vermont Spritz: Prosecco + Snow Farm Distillery Maple Liqueur + Soda + Rosemary sprigs

South

Alabama Spritz: Prosecco + Praline Pecan Liqueur + Soda + Lemon

Arkansas Spritz: Prosecco + Cazottes Liqueur de Tomates + Soda + Basil leaves

Delaware Spritz: Prosecco + Daytrip Peach Amaro + Soda + Peach + Mint leaves

Florida Spritz: Prosecco + J. F. Hayden’s Orange Liqueur + Soda + Orange

Georgia Spritz: Prosecco + Blended Family Peach No. 4 Liqueur + Soda + Peach + Rosemary sprigs

Kentucky Spritz: Prosecco + Five Springs Honey Sage Bourbon + Soda + Mint leaves

Louisiana Spritz: Prosecco + Southern Comfort + Soda + Lime

Maryland Spritz: Prosecco + Don Ciccio & Figli Cinque Aperitivo Bianco + Soda + Lemon

Mississippi Spritz: Prosecco + Cathead Distillery Hoodoo Chicory Liqueur + Soda + Apple + Lemon

North Carolina Spritz: Prosecco + Corbin Cash Sweet Potato Liqueur + Soda + Lemon + Rosemary sprigs

Oklahoma Spritz: Prosecco + American Fruits Strawberry Liqueur + Soda + Strawberries + Mint leaves

South Carolina Spritz: Prosecco + High Wire Distilling Co. Southern Amaro Liqueur + Soda + Tangerine + Mint leaves

Tennessee Spritz: Prosecco + Liba Spirits Terrativo Bourbon Liqueur + Soda + Blood orange

Texas Spritz: Prosecco + Rio Grande Grapefruit Liqueur + Soda + Red grapefruit

Virginia Spritz: Prosecco + Phantom V Apple Orchard Liqueur + Soda + Sage leaves

West Virginia Spritz: Prosecco + Eda Rhyne Amaro Flora Herbal Mountain Bitter + Soda + Orange + Thyme sprigs

The post Spritzing Across America: 50 Spritz Cocktail Recipes Inspired by the States appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 3 ounces brewed espresso or brewed coffee
• 2 ounces Licor 43
• Orange peel strip

Most people gravitate to the classic margarita when it comes to tequila drinks, but I’ve long opted for the citrusy paloma instead. I love the punch of grapefruit, the bubbles and the fact that it doesn’t contain a drop of commercial sour mix (just say no to sour mix!). A traditional paloma is a simple concoction of tequila, grapefruit soda and lime, but I prefer fresh grapefruit juice and club soda with a smidge of sweetener. To me, it’s the pinnacle of refreshing poolside sipping. Only one thing can improve this classic Mexican drink: turning it into a slushie. Because a frozen paloma is as good as a frozen margarita, and maybe even better.

How to Make Matthew McConaughey’s Frozen Paloma

This recipe is based on the Pantalones Frozen Pantaloma. Blanco is the best tequila for margaritas and palomas; it’s uncomplicated and lets the other flavors shine through. But there’s nothing wrong with using a slightly aged reposado, which is what I used. (Save the more heavily aged añejo for spirit-forward cocktails or sipping neat.) This recipe makes one cocktail, but trust me: You’ll want to make a batch. It’s an easy recipe to scale up. Just remember that frozen drinks melt quickly; make only as many as you intend to serve immediately.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 ounces blanco or reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 2 ounces grapefruit juice
• 1/2 ounce light agave syrup
• Pinch of salt
• Ice
• Grapefruit, sliced for garnish

Directions

In a blender, combine the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave and a pinch of salt with 1 cup of ice. Blend until smooth, about 15 to 20 seconds. Pour the frozen paloma into a chilled glass and garnish it with a slice of grapefruit.

My Honest Review of the Matthew McConaughey Frozen Paloma

It’s such a McConaughey cliche (McConacliche?), but this frozen paloma is definitely “alright, alright, alright!” It’s hard not to love a frozen cocktail, and this one made with smooth tequila and real grapefruit juice is a winner. I used bottled juice because, at the end of the day, it’s getting blended into a boozy drink. But using freshly squeezed juice would make it even better. The agave added just enough sweetness (honey would also work well), and that pinch of salt brought some balance. A Tajin rim would be pretty stellar, too.

I don’t know if the McConaugheys regularly drink frozen palomas, but I can imagine tossing some back with the couple around their movie-star pool in a breezy, beautifully designed backyard. OK, maybe I was daydreaming with each sip—blame the tequila!—but even the official recipe mentions floating on a lazy river, so I’m not far off. This slushie cocktail is for pool days so hot, you never want to get out of the water (or, if you’re like me and don’t have a pool, the sprinkler). Either way, get the blender ready, find some cute inflatables and enjoy the dog days of summer, McConaughey-style.

Related:

• I Made Ina Garten’s Limoncello Spritz, and It’s the Only Drink I Need This Summer
• Drinks to Welcome Patio Season
• I Made Dolly Parton’s Dirt Road Martini, and Tea Drinkers Are Going to Love It

The post I Tried Matthew McConaughey’s Frozen Paloma—It’s As Cool As He Is appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 ounces vodka or citrus-flavored vodka
• 3 ounces lemon sorbet
• 3 ounces prosecco or cava
• Lemon peel and fresh basil leaf, for garnish

While it may not be enshrined in the classic cocktail canon, the kryptonite is a fun nod to the iconic superhero—and the glowing green mineral that brings him to his knees.

How to Make a Kryptonite Cocktail

The kryptonite cocktail is a vibrant, summery drink with a stunning green hue. It’s easy to shake up and just as simple to scale into a batch cocktail—perfect for a newsroom happy hour at the Daily Planet.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 ounces white rum or coconut rum
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 ounce Midori
• Large square ice cubes, for serving

Directions

Step 1: Shake the ingredients

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add rum, lime juice, pineapple juice and a pinch of salt. Secure the lid, and shake vigorously to chill.

Step 2: Strain the cocktail

Strain the cocktail over a large ice cube set in a rocks glass. Or, break the large ice cube into shards so it resembles kryptonite! See tips below.

Step 3: Top with Midori

Add Midori to the cocktail shaker with ice, stir to chill, then strain it over the cocktail.

Editor’s Tip: This step is optional; if you’d rather shake everything together, go ahead and add the Midori to the shaker with all of the other cocktail ingredients. I like to pour the Midori over top because it makes the cocktail look even more like kryptonite since it slowly spreads throughout the drink.

What’s the best glass to use?

The best cocktail glass for this drink is a rocks glass because large square ice cubes fit nicely in them. And their short stature allows the large ice cubes to peak out above the cocktail, looking like the dangerous green mineral.

What garnishes can I use?

I think it’s best to keep the garnishes to a minimum for this drink. However, in addition to large ice cubes or shards of ice, you can garnish this cocktail with a lime wheel, pineapple wedge or even a pineapple frond.

Tips for Making a Kryptonite Cocktail

Choose Your Rum

This cocktail is best with white rum, but for a more tropical cocktail you can use coconut rum like Malibu. I don’t recommend using a dark rum as that will change the color of this kryptonite cocktail to something more akin to brown kryptonite.

Use Large Square Ice Cube Molds

This drink looks particularly like kryptonite when served over a large ice cube with jagged edges. To achieve this, use a large square ice cube tray to freeze large cubes. You can use the ice as-is, or you can take it a step further and break it into jagged shards. Be careful doing this! Place the ice cube on a clean kitchen towel and use a cocktail ice pick (for those with a fancy bar set-up) or pairing knife. Carefully pick at the ice until it breaks apart into large shards.

The post Here’s How to Make a Kryptonite Cocktail for the New Superman Movie appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces grapefruit juice
• 1 ounce tequila
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Splash tonic water

Ingredients

• Cherry juice or maple syrup, for the rim
• 1 whole graham cracker, crushed, for the rim
• 1-1/2 ounces RumChata liqueur
• 1/2 ounce maple syrup
• 1-1/2 ounces tart cherry juice
• 1-1/2 ounces McGillicuddy’s cherry liqueur
• Ice cubes
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 1-1/2 ounces blanco tequila
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 2 ounces sparkling rosé wine
• Lemon wheel, for garnish

Ingredients

• Crushed ice
• Ice cubes
• 12 ounces rye whiskey
• 1 jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced, for infusing
• 1-1/2 ounces unsweetened pineapple juice
• 1/2 ounce coconut milk or cream of coconut
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 1 jalapeno pepper round, for garnish

Ingredients

• 1 ounce Galliano L’autentico Italian liqueur
• 1 ounce white creme de cacao
• 1 ounce heavy whipping cream or half-and-half
• ice cubes
• Chocolate shavings, optional

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 1-1/2 ounces blanco tequila
• 3/4 ounce peach schnapps liqueur
• 1-1/2 ounces orange juice
• 1-1/2 ounces peach nectar or juice
• 1/4 ounce creme de cassis
• Prosecco or dry sparkling wine, for topping
• Peach or orange slice, for garnish

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups sugar
• RHUBARB MARGARITA:
• Kosher salt, for the rim
• Lime wedge, for the rim
• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces tequila
• 3/4 ounce orange liqueur, such as triple sec or Cointreau
• 3/4 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce rhubarb simple syrup

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces double-strength brewed iced tea
• 1-1/2 ounces blanco tequila
• 3/4 ounce peach schnapps liqueur
• 1/2 ounce freshly-squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• Lime wheel, for garnish

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2-1/2 ounces unsweetened pineapple juice, divided
• 1-1/2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce cream of coconut
• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• Ice cubes
• Fresh strawberry and pineapple wedge, for garnish

Ingredients

• 1 mini seedless watermelon
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup soju
• 1/4 cup Sprite
• Ice cubes

Hosting get-togethers in the backyard with close family and friends is one of the highlights of summer. Depending on the reason for the gathering and the size of the group, you’ll likely be serving a meal (or snacks) and summer drinks, which both require a little planning—especially if you’re serving the refreshments outside. However, with a little guidance, an outdoor drink station doesn’t have to translate to setting up a full bar in the summer sun.

While we at Taste of Home have plenty of cumulative experience setting up drink stations for our own gatherings, we spoke with Melissa Darpino, owner of Truly, Madly Detailed, who has 25 years of experience planning events both big and small, to provide even more helpful tips.

Melissa recommends starting the planning process by thinking about what would make your guests’ time with you more special; bigger isn’t always better. “It’s what allows you to spend quality time with the company you’ve brought together,” says Melissa. Here’s how to get started.

Start by Determining Serving Sizes & Recipes

The first thing to consider when putting together an outdoor drinks station is what to serve and how much to make. Luckily, deciding what to make (or what to bring to the potluck, if you’re not the host) is the most fun part of planning!

Decide how much to serve

Wondering how much food to make for a party is always a mind-boggling question for new hosts. When it comes to drinks, typical serving sizes depend on the type of gathering you’re hosting. (For example, guests would drink more at a backyard wedding than a backyard barbecue.) For a casual get-together with friends, it’s a pretty safe bet that guests won’t have more than two drinks over a few hours in the afternoon.

Consider a few signature drinks vs. a full bar

We recommend keeping it simple and making one alcoholic batched cocktail and one nonalcoholic batched mocktail. (Bonus points if you put out a hard liquor that guests can splash into the mocktail option, if they wish.) Compared to setting up a full bar, filling pitchers or dispensers with a couple of big-batch drinks ahead of time makes it easier for you as the host and the guests for several reasons:

1. Batched cocktails prevent you from whipping up a separate drink order for every guest. You could simply let your guests mix up drinks themselves, but having endless options is overwhelming. After all, not everyone knows cocktail recipes off the top of their head! Providing a few prepared options makes it easy for guests to spend less time focusing on what to drink and more on interacting with other guests.
2. Pre-made drinks make you seem more put together than the potentially chaotic array of liquors, mixers and glasses that are necessary for a full bar.

Don’t skip the mocktail

While it might feel easy to skip the mocktail and make two batched cocktails instead, making an intentional beverage for guests who aren’t drinking alcohol makes them feel less like an afterthought. Plus, the mocktail will be a delicious decision even for people who do prefer hard drinks as an in-between-cocktails sipper that’s not water.

Choose your batched recipes

Now comes the fun part—picking the drink recipes! Melissa suggests that you should consider the types of drinks you see your friends and family enjoying on other occasions, and level it up slightly from there. After all, you don’t want to make something so out there that people are afraid to try it. “It’s not necessarily the time to expand your guests’ horizons…Think about your guests and what they would enjoy, and then ever so slightly, bump it up a notch,” says Melissa.

Incorporate seasonal ingredients

Melissa recommends using seasonal ingredients and summer produce. “I think about what is fresh and abundant. I feel like there is a palate expectation. If you’re showing up at someone’s backyard barbecue in July, you’re not expecting to have an eggnog. There is an expectation that is being set by the time of year and the environment in which we’re celebrating.” For a warm-weather potluck, summery, seasonal ingredients are the way to go.

Include different liquors

It’s a good idea to use different types of alcohol in each drink, so guests have more than one choice of hard alcohol. (Read: Avoid making two vodka-based cocktails or two tequila drinks and instead, make one with vodka and one with tequila.)

Melissa also chooses recipes that look nice next to each other, yet have contrasting hues to create visual interest. An easy white sangria full of fresh fruit and a complementary strawberry mocktail with ginger ale would make a lovely duo. Melissa suggests a paloma with tequila or mezcal to hit on light pink hues, a spicy cucumber and cilantro vodka or gin cocktail to showcase fresh-picked summer greens, and a mocktail flavored with watermelon and lime or strawberry and rosemary.

Choose additional canned and bottled drinks

In addition to the batched cocktail and mocktail, serve a few beers, canned wines and hard seltzers for guests who prefer to keep it simple and enjoy something they already know they like. If your guests love a particular brand, make sure it’s a choice for them; otherwise, have fun picking out things you’d drink yourself, since you’ll likely have extras after guests go home.

Melissa also sometimes chooses cans and bottles based on how they complement the rest of the spread. “I have chosen cocktails and wine in cans according to the color scheme of a party…and I have done it that way more than once,” admits Melissa.

Don’t forget water

Water is so important for outdoor get-togethers (especially if you’re serving alcohol). Making it readily accessible guarantees that no one gets dehydrated on a hot summer day. Put out water bottles and canned sparkling waters, or fill up a pitcher with infused water for something more elevated.

Gather Your Serveware

The following items are essential for an at-home drink station setup.

• Bar cart or table: Pull out a sturdy table. Consider adding a disposable tablecloth for a pop of color that will also protect your table from spills.
• Pitchers, dispensers or punch bowls: These are non-negotiables when you’re serving batched cocktails. Beautiful serveware, such as pretty punch bowls, is always a flex, and parties are the perfect time to show it off!
• Coolers: Pick up one of our choices for the best coolers to chill any canned cocktails, bottles of beer or sparkling waters and seltzers.
• Ice bucket + tongs: You’ll need an ice bucket and tongs in order to serve refreshing homemade cocktails and mocktails. Melissa recommends picking up four pounds of ice per person. (You’ll need to refill the ice bucket a few times throughout the gathering.)
• Disposable glasses: Melissa recommends putting out two glasses per person for most gatherings. “The type of party you have will dictate how many glasses you need. It depends on the length of time the guests are there for and what kinds of activities they are doing that would take them away from their drink of choice. The more opportunities they have to put it down, the more glasses you will need to replenish,” says Melissa.
• Drink labels: A little chalkboard in front of each dispenser or pitcher can let guests know what their options are.
• Drink markers: If all of your glasses are the same, you’ll need a way to distinguish whose glass is whose if anyone sets it down for a moment, whether it’s to play cornhole or Bocce ball. There are plenty of cute ones online if you’d rather not set out a Sharpie for clear plastic cups.

After you’ve secured the essentials, consider putting out a shot glass or jigger for people who want to make the mocktail boozy, especially if you already have a bar kit as a part of your home bar setup.

In addition, Melissa recommends putting a bowl or cup underneath spigots to catch any spare drips that would otherwise leak onto the table. She says that a mini ramekin with some berries in it would look pretty and seasonal, while keeping your drink station much neater.

Prepare Thoughtful Garnishes

“When it comes to a pre-planned bar, you may want to make it simple for guests and pre-garnish some of the glasses,” says Melissa. This is an easy task that you can do right before guests arrive, whether it’s a slivered strawberry on the rim of the cup, cucumber ribbons wound around the inner edges of a glass or skewered fruit propped over the top.

Ice cubes can also be part of the cocktail garnish if you make big spheres or cubes of ice with edible flowers, fruits or herbs embedded in them. You could also freeze juice into ice cubes so you don’t dilute the drink.

Cocktail napkins are a thoughtful addition to an outdoor drinks station. If you have a stack outside, put a cute stone on top so they don’t fly away in the wind.

Tips for Setting Up an Outdoor Drinks Station

Where should you set up the drinks station?

Since you want the drinks to stay as cold as possible (for as long as possible), set up your station in a shady spot that’s sheltered from wind. If you don’t have any shade, set up an umbrella over the table so that the ice, drinks and garnishes don’t wilt or melt in the warm sunlight.

This may go without saying, but make sure you’re on a completely flat surface so the table or bar cart doesn’t rock or sit at an angle, causing drinks to slide ever so slowly slide to the other side of the spread. It seems like it would be easy to pick a flat surface, but some grassy backyards are a little uneven!

When should you start setting up?

Set up 15 to 30 minutes before people arrive. You don’t want those disposable cups flying away!

Do you need to add any decor to your outdoor drinks station?

An inexpensive bouquet of flowers will add a little flair to the drink station. Additionally, Melissa states, “I firmly believe in showcasing the ingredients you’re serving. So I would have a really pretty fruit bowl, which ends up being backup garnishes if needed.” Pretty and practical!

What should you do after setting up the outdoor drinks station?

Don’t forget to take photos! They’ll be fun to look back on. Plus, photos will help you remember the setup for the next time you host an outdoor gathering.

And finally, don’t fret too much about what people will think. At the end of the day, Melissa says: “Guests will enjoy whatever it is that you have put together and are just happy to be there among friends.” So, don’t get too caught up in trying to make everything perfect and instead, focus on having fun!

The post How to Set Up an Outdoor Drink Station appeared first on Taste of Home.

Peach Sangria

The scent of summer is a bushel of fresh peaches. Between peach schnapps and loads of fresh peaches (and an entire bottle of white wine), this gorgeous sangria is like sunshine in a glass.

Watermelon Mojito

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time5 min

Servings1 serving

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From the Recipe Creator:We added watermelon to the classic mojito recipe for an extra sweet (and pink!) spin on the classic Cuban cocktail. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Nutrition Facts:1 serving: 171 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 29mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Watermelon cubes are freshly muddled for the truest watermelon flavor possible. If you don’t like the sediments sitting at the bottom of the glass, blend the watermelon cubes, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve and only use the watermelon juice instead. Turn the recipe into a batch cocktail by multiplying the ingredients based on how many servings you’ll need, then build everything in a pitcher instead of a glass.

Cucumber Margarita

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time10 min

Servings1 serving

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From the Recipe Creator:A cool and refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this cucumber margarita combines the bright flavors of lime and triple sec with the crisp and earthy flavors of cucumbers. The cucumbers provide enough sweetness that you can skip the simple syrup for this beverage! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nutrition Facts:1 serving: 238 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

As if margaritas weren’t refreshing enough, cucumber juice lends its cooling, vegetal flavor to this iconic drink. It relies on the natural sugar found in tequila and lime to sweeten it ever so gently, but it’s more earthy than anything. Pair this tipple with grilled steak recipes and savory barbecue side dishes. For a batch cocktail version, multiply the ingredients based on how many servings you’re going to need, then build the recipe in a pitcher instead of in a cocktail shaker.

Spiked Lemonade

5 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time15 min

Servings8 servings (about 2 quarts)

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From the Recipe Creator:Rum gives a tropical addition to this fabulous homemade lemonade. If you have vodka on hand, try that instead of the rum. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin

Nutrition Facts:1 cup: 296 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 61g carbohydrate (56g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

A pitcher of lemonade evokes happy childhood memories. Add a splash of rum or vodka, and this nostalgic drink turns into a refreshing boozy sipper.

Strawberry Drink Mocktail

3 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time10 min

Servings8 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:During the dog days of summer, my family looks for a cold, thirst-quenching drink. I like this strawberry cooler because it's sparkling, refreshing and fast and easy to make.

Nutrition Facts:1 cup: 116 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.

While this strawberry drink is a mocktail at heart, you can easily add a smooth vodka, light rum or gin to this easy batch cocktail. The extra strawberry garnish is non-negotiable, though.

Margarita Sangria

2 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time15 min

Servings8 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:This sangria is reminiscent of a margarita with its tequila and agave kick! —Andrea Rivera, Westbury, New York

Nutrition Facts:3/4 cup: 204 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.

My two favorite words! Margarita’s tequila and limes come together with sangria’s white wine and fruit to create this batched beverage.

Summertime Tea Mocktail

8 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time15 min

Servings18 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:You can’t have a summer gathering around here without this sweet tea to cool you down. It’s wonderful for sipping while basking by the pool. —Angela Lively, Baxter, Tennessee

Nutrition Facts:3/4 cup (calculated without tequila): 102 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

This nonalcoholic summertime tea makes 18 servings. It’s perfect for a get-together with the extended family, hosting a graduation party or any other excuse you can come up with to throw a backyard barbecue in the summer sun.

Cranberry Mimosa

6 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time10 min

Servings12 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:Mimosas are just so elegant for Sunday brunch. My recipe uses tart cranberries to balance the sweetness of champagne and orange juice. —Shannon Stephens, Lake in the Hills, Illinois

Nutrition Facts:1 serving: 163 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.

Mimosas are known for being so easy, they hardly need a recipe. Here, they get an upgrade with tart cranberries, creating a gorgeous sunset in the glass. But this addition still keeps the drink extremely easy. Puree orange juice, lemon juice and cranberries together. When you’re ready to serve, pour the juice into glasses and top with sparkling wine. (These are the best champagnes for mimosas.)

Rum Punch

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time5 min

Servings1 serving

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From the Recipe Creator:Similar to planter's punch, this sweet rum punch also includes orange juice. Add a cherry or pineapple garnish for a festive look. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Nutrition Facts:1 serving: 258 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.

To make this rum punch for a crowd, multiply the recipe by the number of servings you need. Skip the cocktail shaker and ice. Instead, give the ingredients a good stir in a pitcher or punch bowl the night before. When it comes time to serve, pour the rum punch over plenty of ice, and have garnishes at the ready.

Fruit Punch Mocktail

5 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time10 min

Servings5 quarts

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From the Recipe Creator:This pink cooler is deliciously thirst-quenching on a warm day. Seeing its color, folks guess it might be pink lemonade. They're pleasantly surprised to discover the bubbly blend includes cranberry, pineapple, orange and lemon juices. —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon

Nutrition Facts:1 cup: 105 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.

If you haven’t heard, vintage recipes are in. Serve this big batch cocktail in the punch bowl that your grandmother passed down to you ages ago. This mocktail can be spiked if need be, or you can leave out a bottle of vodka nearby for anyone that wants in.

Mint Julep

4 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time30 min

Servings10 servings (2-1/2 cups syrup)

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From the Recipe Creator:It wouldn't be Kentucky Derby Day without this mint julep recipe! But, really, this Kentucky Derby mint julep recipe is good anytime. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Nutrition Facts:1/3 cup: 197 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.

Even if you’re not throwing a Kentucky Derby party, a mint julep highlights all the best flavors and scents of spring and summer with real mint and a fruity bourbon that has notes of cherry and pear.

Kentucky Mule

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time10 min

Servings6 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:Bourbon lovers will love this Kentucky mule recipe. It's the same as a Moscow mule, but replaces the vodka with bourbon. Serve the cocktail in a copper mug to keep it cold. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nutrition Facts:1 cup: 169 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 12mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Kentucky mules one-up a mint julep with the fizzy addition of zippy ginger beer. If you’re batching this cocktail hours ahead of time, then don’t pour in the ginger beer until serving.

Bourbon Slush

1 Review

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelAdvanced

Total Time10 min

Servings24 servings (6 qt.)

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From the Recipe Creator:At our holiday parties, Bourbon Slush is definitely a favorite. Have fun experimenting with different teas when you make it. We like black tea, green tea and orange spice. —Darcene Sigler, Louisville, Ohio

Nutrition Facts:1 cup: 196 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 15mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Bourbon slush is a summertime hero. The ingredients are not blended with ice; that would water it down! Instead, bourbon, frozen orange juice concentrate, lemonade concentrate and brewed tea are blended together and then frozen granita-style. Scoop into cups, pour lemon-lime soda on top and serve this cooling potion.

Tajin Limeade Mocktail

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time20 min

Servings8 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:Tajin is a blend of chili peppers, salt and lime. I sprinkle it on a lot of food, but I've found it's really delicious in limeade. —Amanda Phillips, Portland, Oregon

Nutrition Facts:1 cup: 126 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 749mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Here, Tajin doesn’t just line the glass rim. We added an effortless extra step by making gorgeous ice cubes out of the spice and lime mixture, too. These two Tajin components add the perfect amount of heat without making guests sweat.

Coconut Mojito

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time5 min

Servings1 serving

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From the Recipe Creator:A bubbly coconut mojito is the perfect drink to stir up when you want something light and refreshing. Made with the creaminess of cream of coconut and coconut rum, it gets a tropical spin from lime juice and a hint of freshness from mint. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nutrition Facts:1 serving: 326 calories, 5g fat (4g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 29mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Coconut, mint and lime—is there anything more refreshing than that? To turn this into a batch cocktail, multiply the recipe by how many servings you need, then build it in a pitcher instead of a glass, leaving out the club soda and ice. Cover and refrigerate the pitcher before the party starts. When ready to serve, pour in glasses over ice, then top each one with the club soda.

Mixed Berry Sangria

9 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time10 min

Servings10 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:This is a light, tasty beverage to serve with spoons so everyone can enjoy the fresh berries once the sangria is gone. — Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, Illinois

Nutrition Facts:3/4 cup: 134 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.

Sparkling white wine (like Prosecco or Champagne) mix with white cranberry juice, light rum and a mixture of summer berries in this crisp and refreshing sangria. I like to lightly freeze the berries so they act as extra ice cubes without watering down the drink.

Sparkling Lemonade Mocktail

6 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time15 min

Servings2-1/2 cups

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From the Recipe Creator:Who doesn't love chilled lemonade on a hot summer day? Made with club soda, this version is slightly bubbly and bursting with citrus flavor. —Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah

Nutrition Facts:1-1/4 cups: 313 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 26mg sodium, 83g carbohydrate (77g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

The quick addition of club soda turns ordinary lemonade into a drink that feels extra special. While you can keep this as a mocktail, feel free to add in vodka.

Rose Wine Cocktail

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time35 min

Servings8 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:This is an easy way to dress up wine for a party. Other fruit, like watermelon balls or sliced peaches, can be used in place of the strawberry slices. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California

Nutrition Facts:3/4 cup: 122 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.

When wine is mixed with other ingredients, there’s no need to splurge on a good bottle. Grab the best rose under $15 for this batch cocktail, and mix it with the homemade raspberry-grape syrup and the fresh strawberries.

Easy White Sangria

2 Reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time15 min

Servings8 servings

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From the Recipe Creator:Using white wine makes my version of sangria a little lighter, yet it still has the same wonderful sweetness. Frozen fruit allows me to serve this any time of year. Nothing beats this white sangria recipe. —Sharon Tipton, Orlando, Florida

Nutrition Facts:3/4 cup: 147 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 9mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.

Let’s face it: Sangria recipes make the perfect big batch summer cocktail, especially a light sangria like this. Here, frozen fruit keeps the sangria nice and cool without watering it down as ice would.

Caipirinha

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time5 min

Servings1 serving

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From the Recipe Creator:The essential ingredient in this Brazilian cocktail is Cachaca, a liquor made fresh sugarcane juice. Its distinctive herbal flavors pair perfectly with fresh lime. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Nutrition Facts:1 serving: 165 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Caipirinhas are like mintless mojitos. Think of this popular Brazilian drink as more tart-sweet than earthy-sweet. Paired with a grilled steak, it’s unbeatable.

Summertime Watermelon Punch for a Crowd

1 Review

Contest Winner

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelMedium

Total Time30 min

Servings32 servings (6 quarts)

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From the Recipe Creator:I attended a patio party years ago where the hostess had a clever watermelon bowl with a scalloped edge and filled with this punch. It was the hit of the party, and she was kind enough to share the delicious punch recipe with me. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Nutrition Facts:3/4 cup: 81 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 8mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.

You won’t believe just how well watermelon, white wine, ginger ale and orange juice can work together in a cocktail. You’ll probably need an entire watermelon for this one (that’s around 10 pounds), but it’s easy to halve the recipe if needed.

Citrus & White Grape Juice Party Punch Mocktail

1 Review

Test Kitchen Approved

Skill LevelEasy

Total Time5 min

Servings32 servings (4 quarts)

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From the Recipe Creator:I was looking for a punch that wouldn't stain expensive prom dresses and tuxedos. Everyone loved this! You can mix the first four ingredients ahead of time, refrigerate and add the soda right before serving. —Karen Ballance, Wolf Lake, Illinois

Nutrition Facts:1/2 cup: 119 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 17mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Just look at those colors! It really can’t get any easier than this. The recipe calls for white grape juice, but you can sub in white wine, if desired.

Easy Batch Cocktails FAQ

Can you make sparkling big-batch cocktails ahead of time without the carbonation falling flat?

Yes! Follow the directions all the way through, but don’t add the carbonated drink. Refrigerate the batch cocktail until you’re ready to serve. Come party time, pour the carbonation into the pitcher or simply top off each drink with the carbonation. Leaving out the carbonated portion until the very last moment keeps it fizzy and fresh.

How can you securely transport these picnic drinks?

If your pitcher doesn’t have a secure top, pour the batch cocktail into mason jars with a screw-top lid. Those will contain the liquid well. Once you arrive at the picnic or party, pour the liquid into the pitcher to serve.

How far in advance should you make batch cocktails?

The furthest ahead of time you should make your batch cocktail recipe is the day before serving. However, if the recipe contains fresh fruit or herbs, wait to add those components into the pitcher until a few hours before serving. Otherwise, they will break down, making the drink look cloudy and unappetizing. And as mentioned above, don’t add any carbonated portion until you’re ready to serve.

The post 22 Easy Batch Cocktails to Sip at Your Next Party appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• PEACH PUREE:
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen peach slices
• 1 tablespoon water
• MARGARITA:
• Lime juice, for rimming the glass
• Coarse salt, for rimming the glass
• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce orange liqueur
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 3/4 ounce agave syrup
• 1/2 ounce heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons peach puree
• Peach slice, for garnish
• Ice cubes

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces Campari liqueur
• 3 ounces Prosecco
• 1 ounce club soda
• Orange slices, for garnish

Ingredients

• 8 Cadbury eggs, unwrapped
• 6 ounces brewed coffee, chilled
• 4 ounces Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 2 small bottles or 4 ounces of Mozart chocolate cream liqueur
• Ice cubes
• Optional: Whipped cream, sprinkles

Gift the bartender in your life with a piece of their hometown. This urban map glass features the map of any city they have a special connection to, whether it’s their hometown, college city or where they currently reside. And if they have multiple special cities, buy a set of three cocktail glasses for an extra special gift for bartenders!

Shaker & Spoon Subscription

Shop on Shaker and Spoon

A Shaker & Spoon gift subscription is one of the best gifts for bartenders because they actually get to taste this special treat. Gift a one-month, three-month, six-month or 12-month subscription. Each box is filled with cocktail goodies, including everything they need to mix up 12 cocktails—yes, 12! All they’ll need to add is booze. Pair it with these food of the month clubs.

Serving Board

Shop on Public Goods

Whether they’re cutting up limes or serving a snack to guests, this classic wood serving board does it all—and then some. Made from sustainably grown acacia wood, it’s safe to use as a cutting board. It makes a thoughtful cheese board gift idea, too.

Craftmix Cocktail Powder

Shop on Amazon

This one’s for days when happy hour calls their name, but they’re not in the mood to do all the mixing. Enter Craftmix. These powder craft cocktail mixes come in a variety of flavors, like blood orange mai tai and mint mojito. Just add liquor, water and ice! We’ll drink to that. Have you tried a cocktail kit yet?

Breville Smoking Gun

Shop on Williams Sonoma

What’s the key to a truly over-the-top drink experience? This smoking gun from Breville. Your giftee will delicately smoke their spirits and cocktails for a beverage that tastes just as impressive as it looks. For more options, you can check out the best cocktail smokers of the year, too. Oh, and we bet they’d love a cocktail machine, as well.

Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses

Shop on Uncommon Goods

This one’s for the tequila lovers. These handmade Himalayan salt glasses are truly one of a kind. Plus, they come with a serving board and tray for limes.

Portable Keg

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Make sure the bartender in your life always has a fresh drink for tailgates, outdoor gatherings and parties with the uKeg GO portable growler. It holds 128 ounces of their favorite carbonated brew. It’s one of the best gifts for bartenders and beer lovers alike.

Vintage-Inspired Glassware

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The best at-home bar setups include a variety of glassware. Though thrifting is the best way to acquire an eclectic collection, these vintage-inspired glasses are the next best thing. Choose from three sets (each come with four crystal glasses): Retro gin, vintage cocktail or retro fizz.

Bitters Variety Pack

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An at-home bar setup simply isn’t complete without these assorted bitters. This batch of award-winning bitters are handcrafted in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. It’s one of the best gifts for bartenders because it lets them experiment with cherry, orange, golden and floral flavor profiles.

Mixology Class

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Gift a virtual experience to your loved one with this mixology class. They’ll learn how to make three craft cocktails with one of Brooklyn’s most-beloved mixologists. This gift includes a flavored simple syrup set that will be mailed straight to their door ahead of class.

Whiskey Ice Cubes

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Because whiskey is best served with ball-shaped ice cubes, this round ice sphere mold is the best gift for bartenders who can’t stop making an old-fashioned. They pair well with most other cocktails, too.

Last Call Drinking Game

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Help the mixologist in your life host their next party with this Last Call drinking game. It’s filled with dare cards, roasting cards, whodunnit cards and competition cards. Whether there’s two or 20 people at the gathering, it’s perfect for parties of all sizes.

Personalized Glass Rimming Board

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Whether they’re rimming a margarita glass with salt or a martini glass with chocolate drizzle, this personalized rimming board is guaranteed to put a smile on their face. Customize it with their last name, a phrase or special date.

Mistaken Lyrics Coasters

Shop on Uncommon Goods

How fun are these mistaken lyrics coasters? A functional conversation piece, these coasters will delight anyone the at-home bartender is serving. Everyone will be singing “Don’t call Jason waterfalls” by the end of the night.

The Ultimate Bar Book

Shop on Amazon

The best gifts for bartenders inspire their mixology craft, like this book of 1,000+ cocktail recipes. The Ultimate Bar Book is Mittie Hellmich’s James Beard Award-nominated masterpiece, so you can trust us when we say it’s an essential cocktail book for the at-home bartender.  In addition to recipes, your loved one will learn about the importance of glassware and tools, cocktail history, variations and mixing techniques.

Cocktails on the Go

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If you have a frequent flyer on your gift list, treat them to a premium, on-the-go cocktail with a carry-on craft cocktail kit (TSA-approved!). Available in Moscow mule, old-fashioned, bloody mary, margarita, hot toddy, gin and tonic or Italian spritz, these boxes provide the necessary ingredients, tools and instructions for a fabulous cocktail. All they’ll have to do is order a mini bottle of booze on the flight and they’re ready to mix. Have you tried cocktail bombs yet?

Neon Sign

Shop on Etsy

No home bar is complete without a neon sign. Rather than a branded beer sign, go with this “cheers” sign. As one of the best gifts for bartenders with their own mixing station, it’s customizable from the color to the font and size.

Flavored Simple Syrups

$30 at Uncommon Goods

Help your mixologist loved one spice up their drinks (literally) with these flavored not-so-simple syrups. They’re perfect for experimenting with new flavors, like cherry almond martini or grapefruit basil paloma.

Hair of the Dog Glass

Shop on Uncommon Goods

Encourage your giftee to nurse their holiday or birthday hangover with these hair-of-the-dog cocktails glasses. With an option of pug, greyhound, beagle or dalmatian, these gilded glasses are made of expertly hand-blown glass.

The post 19 Best Gifts for Bartenders appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs
• 1 ounce Key lime juice, plus more for garnishing the rim
• 5 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1-1/2 ounces simple syrup
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce heavy whipping cream
• Ice cubes

How to Serve Drinks in Chocolate Bunnies

Anyone can turn a chocolate bunny into a chocolate bunny cup. Choose a hollow chocolate rabbit, then use a warm knife to carefully slice off the ears. The edible cup will add chocolate flavor to the drink, so it’s important to choose a cocktail that pairs well with it—like one of my favorites, a classic mudslide. The rich Irish cream and coffee liqueur in this drink are perfect to serve in a milk chocolate cup. And there are more sweet and creamy drink ideas below.

Choosing the Right Chocolate Bunny

You’ll want a high-quality chocolate bunny, of course. Our Test Kitchen had the enviable task of tracking down all the best-tasting chocolate bunny brands, and found three that stood above the rest. To turn it into a cup, your chocolate bunny also needs to be structurally sound.

Choose a hollow bunny with chocolate walls thick enough to hold the drink without leaking, and strong enough to slice through without breaking. The bottom of the rabbit needs to be perfectly flat so that it can stand up on its own when filled. Finally, look for a chocolate bunny that has a wide, rather than narrow base, so that it’s less prone to tipping when filled. For my bunny drinks, I chose Russell-Stover’s 6-ounce hollow bunnies, which have plenty of room inside for the cocktail, and are strong and sturdy.

Ingredients

• Chocolate bunny: Choose a hollow chocolate rabbit with upright ears that can stand up on its own. It should be large enough to hold about 6 ounces (3/4 cup) of liquid.
• Irish cream: To make a creamy mudslide cocktail, pick up a bottle of silky-sweet Irish cream. Or, use your own Irish cream made with or without alcohol.
• Kahlua: The sweet coffee flavor of store-bought or homemade Kahlua is delectable with Irish cream and chocolate.
• Vodka: Using the best vodka (like Tito’s) will make your bunny cocktail taste like a true mixologist made it.
• Cream: Give the drink an extra-creamy finish with either cold heavy whipping cream or cold half-and-half.
• Garnishes: Pick up colorful paper straws for sipping your bunny cocktail. Optional decorations include dollops of whipped cream, ribbons in Easter pastel shades or fresh garnishes (try edible flowers or chocolate peppermint leaves).

Directions

Step 1: Cut off the chocolate bunny ears

Lay the chocolate bunny on a cutting board. Run a sharp kitchen knife under very hot water until the blade is warm, then dry it off. Hold the bunny with one hand and use the other to slice off the ears with the hot knife—do this slowly, using very gentle pressure while drawing the blade back and forth through the chocolate until it slices through. Be careful not to press too hard, or the chocolate walls could break and collapse.

Editor’s Tip: Check for potential leaks! Once the ears have been removed, hold the bottom of the rabbit up to the light and look inside—if light shines through any cracks or holes, brush some melted chocolate on the outside to patch them. Allow the chocolate to dry.

Step 2: Prep the cocktail

Pour 1-1/2 ounces each of Irish cream, Kahlua and heavy cream into a cocktail shaker. Add in 1 ounce of vodka. Add ice, cover and shake the ingredients until they’re completely chilled.

Step 3: Fill the bunny and serve

Stand the chocolate bunny up and carefully strain the chilled drink into it.

Add a straw, along with optional garnishes like whipped cream around the top (and on the backside to make a bunny tail!). Ribbons, edible flowers or mint leaves would be cute too. Serve the bunny cocktail immediately.

Chocolate Bunny Cocktail Variations

• Make it a sweet martini: The coffee flavor of an espresso martini is delicious with a chocolate bunny, as is a double chocolate martini made with two chocolate liqueurs. A tiramisu martini adds tropical, creamy RumChata. Or, use Irish cream and amaretto to make a sugar cookie martini.
• Try a brandy Alexander bunny: Pour an old-fashioned but delicious cocktail into your chocolate rabbit. A brandy Alexander is made with crème de cacao, sweet brandy and a little nutmeg.
• Serve a chocolate bunny aperitif: Instead of a cocktail, serve a straight shot of creamy liqueur in a smaller hollow bunny. Try Irish cream, Kahlua, Amarula or bourbon cream.
• Make a nonalcoholic version: For an alcohol-free celebration or to make the recipe kid-friendly, serve drinks like chocolate milk or coffee milk inside a chocolate bunny. Or, fill a bunny with a frosty treat—like a strawberry milkshake, thin mint milkshake or peanut butter milkshake. (Blend extra milk into the shakes to make them pourable.)
• Go with white chocolate: For an even sweeter cocktail, use a hollow white chocolate rabbit.

Tips for Making Chocolate Bunny Cocktails

Can chocolate bunny cocktails be made in advance?

Yes, the components of chocolate bunny cocktails can be prepped ahead of time. Slice the ears off the chocolate rabbits, then place the bunny cups inside a sealed container or food storage bag to keep them fresh. Store them at room temperature. You can also mix the cocktail ingredients together and store the mixture in the fridge for up to three days. Wait to add the cocktail to the chocolate bunny until just before serving it.

What’s the best way to cut a chocolate bunny for chocolate bunny cocktails?

For the easiest cut, your chocolate rabbit should have ears pointing straight up. I like to slice the ears off just above the head, but you can also slice further up to leave some of the ears intact. Finally, a slightly angled cut looks better than cutting straight across. Just remember to use a hot, dry knife and take your time so the chocolate doesn’t break. And if cutting the ears off chocolate bunnies seems like too much work, try a cottontail margarita instead!

How do you make a chocolate bunny cocktail without making a mess?

Depending on the hollow chocolate bunny you use, the opening to pour in the cocktail may be generous or narrow. To avoid spills or drips down the outside, use a funnel to pour the drink into the chocolate rabbit. Also, before adding the drink, remember to check the chocolate bunny for holes or cracks, and patch them with melted chocolate. Keep a napkin handy, as the chocolate may melt a little from the warmth of your hands as you hold it.

The post How to Make Chocolate Bunny Cocktails for a Sweet Easter Drink appeared first on Taste of Home.

Over the years, I have tried countless variations on the classic martini, but this drink never secured a place in my rotation of regular orders. Now, a tip from the late, great Julia Child has me rethinking everything I thought I knew about how to order a martini.

I recently learned that Julia’s favorite cocktail was something called an “upside-down martini,” a more vermouth-forward variation on the classic recipe. According to Culinary Historians of Chicago, Julia once said it was her favorite cocktail because it was so light “you could have two of them.”

What is an ‘upside-down martini’?

The upside-down martini, aka the reverse martini, calls for five parts of extra-dry vermouth (Noilly Prat preferred) to one part gin. This cocktail reverses the recipe for a classic martini.

Garnished with a lemon peel twist, the upside-down martini is a refreshing sipper worthy of a summer happy hour spent gossiping with friends. And Julia is correct: The surprisingly complex but not overbearing flavor will have you asking for another. No wonder this drink had culinary royalty ordering another round!

How do you order an ‘upside-down martini’?

If you’re ordering Julia’s drink from your regular bartender, you’ll want to share a couple of things that make this drink so unique. First, the martini calls for gin, not vodka. In place of sweet vermouth, be sure they use dry vermouth. And if you’re looking to be a purist, the drink needs a lemon peel garnish.

The bartender should also do plenty of shaking to get the martini nice and cold—this one wouldn’t hit the same if it was anything close to room temperature.

With my curiosity piqued, I knew I needed a taste of Julia’s drink myself. My neighborhood bar did not have any vermouth (dry or otherwise) on hand, so I picked up a bottle of Noilly Prat from the store and fixed the drink up at home.

The result lived up to the hype—and with barely three ingredients to it, this is an easy one to whip up at home using the gin of your choice. And, yes, you’ll want to have two.

The post This Was Julia Child’s Favorite Cocktail and I Totally See Why appeared first on Taste of Home.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons marshmallow creme
• 2 tablespoons sweetened shredded coconut
• Ice cubes
• 1/3 cup cream of coconut
• 4 ounces silver tequila
• 2 ounces lime juice
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar
• 1 ounce triple sec
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 4-in. cocktail skewers
• 2 Peeps rabbits

Ingredients

• BLUEBERRY SIMPLE SYRUP:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• COCKTAIL:
• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces gin
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 1 ounce blueberry simple syrup
• 4 ounces tonic water
• Garnishes: blueberries, lime wedge, fresh mint sprig