Easy Christmas Cocktail Party - Start with a Cocktail
The cranberry simple syrup add a bit of sweetness that isn’t overpowering.
This holiday season I am looking forward to catching up with friends at home over festive cocktails and satisfying appetizers. I love to entertain but I don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen, so my Easy Christmas Cocktail Party features do-ahead hearty appetizers, sweet two-bite desserts and a self-serve bar. I hope you can use some of these ideas to enjoy the season with family and friends. Let’s start with a signature cocktail.
Cranberry Old Fashion
Servings: 1 - multiply for number of servings required
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 5 minutes, plus cooling time
Total: 25 minutes
INGREDIENTS
3 ounces quality bourbon whiskey
1 ounce cranberry simple syrup
3 shakes Angostura bitters
Garnish with orange peel, Ocean Spray Fresh Cranberries, and rosemary
INSTRUCTIONS
To make ahead, combine the bourbon, cranberry simple syrup, and bitters in a crystal pitcher Note: this recipe is for one cocktail, so multiply by the number of servings you require.
To serve, add ice to a cocktail glass and fill with cocktail mixture.
Garnish with orange peel, fresh cranberries, and rosemary (make several of these ahead and arrange on a small platter.
RECIPE
For Cranberry Simple Syrup :In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water, 1 cup of sugar, and one cup of fresh cranberries to a boil. Once boiling, cook for 4-5 minutes. Strain with a fine mesh sieve. Cool before serving.
Recipe adapted by Inspired by Charm