Test Kitchen Approved

“It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with this pumpkin spice espresso martini! Sipping on this pumpkin martini while watching a scary movie on a rainy afternoon was truly an elite fall experience. I’m a big fan of trying seasonal drinks at bars, but I think I’ll save a lot of money by making this pumpkin martini recipe at home.” — Haley, busy mom of two and passionate home cook and baker.

Learn more about our Test Kitchen ➔

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Pumpkin Espresso Martini

Pumpkin Espresso Martini – three magic words to make your Halloween and Thanksgiving so much more fun! Creamy, boozy, and pumpkin spiced to perfection, this dessert martini has it all.

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword pumpkin espresso martini, pumpkin martini, pumpkin martini recipe, pumpkin pie martini​, pumpkin spice espresso martini

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 martini

Calories 229kcal

Author Jessica

Ingredients

• ice cubes
• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz RumChata
• 1 oz espresso or cold brew – chilled or room temperature
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon half & half
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup more or less to taste
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of pumpkin pie spice plus more for garnish
• whipped cream optional garnish

Instructions

• Add ice (about 5 ice cubes) to a cocktail shaker. Then add the vodka, RumChata, espresso, pumpkin puree, half & half, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice.
• Close the lid of the cocktail shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 20 to 30 seconds. Shake the cocktail hard to achieve a frothy top.
• Strain into a chilled martini glass (or a coupe glass). Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 martini | Calories: 229kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 17mg | Potassium: 166mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 4722IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Pumpkin Espresso Martini appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Test Kitchen Approved

“This drink should be way more popular than it is. I live in Florida, where it’s perpetually summer, and I’m so sad that it took me this long to discover the transfusion cocktail! It’s sweet (but not too sweet) and SO refreshing. Also, I love that there aren’t any crazy ingredients or complicated steps. No frills!” — Haley, busy mom of two and passionate home cook and baker.

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Tips For Making This Transfusion Drink Recipe

Honestly, this Transfusion cocktail wins just for how stress-free it is. No fancy tools, no long prep – just build it over ice in the glass, stir, garnish, and serve. And the result? A fizzy, fruity sip that feels like you really took your time. Below are a few helpful tips – visit the printable recipe card for the full directions!

To keep your drink crisp and refreshing without watering it down, chill the vodka, grape juice, and ginger ale ahead of time. Using cold ingredients means your ice won’t melt as quickly, so your cocktail will stay full of flavor.

I like to use a highball or tall glass to give the bubbles from the ginger ale room to rise and stay fizzy longer. Be sure to stir gently once everything is in the glass.

Over-stirring can flatten the ginger ale, and the fizz is part of what makes this drink so refreshing. A quick mix with a bar spoon or even a straw is enough to bring everything together. 

Make Ahead or Make A Pitcher

To make a big batch of this Transfusion drink recipe for a party, mix the vodka, Concord grape juice, and fresh lime juice in a pitcher or drink dispenser ahead of time, then chill it in the fridge. Leave out the ginger ale until right before serving to keep the bubbles fresh.

When it’s time to serve, just top each glass with chilled ginger ale and a few ice cubes. For easy garnishing, slice limes and prep edible flowers or frozen grapes in advance. You can even set up a little cocktail station so guests can build their own drink, perfect for entertaining!

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Transfusion Drink Recipe

This classic Transfusion Drink is refreshing, sweet, citrusy, and spiked with the perfect amount of vodka. Whether you're at the golf course or dipping your feet in the pool, you'll love this refreshing and summery cocktail.

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword transfusion cocktail, transfusion drink, Transfusion Drink Recipe, transfusions drink

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 195kcal

Author Jessica

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 3 oz grape juice concord grape juice is recommended
• 1 oz ginger ale
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• ice cubes

Optional Garnishes

• edible flowers for garnish such as pansies or violas
• lime wheel or wedge for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice cubes to chill the glass.
• In the chilled glass, add vodka. Pour in grape juice over the vodka. Add ginger ale to the mix. Squeeze the juice of half a lime (approximately 1/2 oz) into the glass.
• Use a bar spoon or stirring stick to gently mix the ingredients. Be careful not to over-stir to maintain the effervescence from the ginger ale. Garnish and serve!

Make A Pitcher

• To make a pitcher for a party, mix the vodka, Concord grape juice, and fresh lime juice in a pitcher or drink dispenser ahead of time. Leave out the ginger ale until right before serving to keep the bubbles fresh. Chill it in the fridge, until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 cocktail | Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 106mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 0.3mg

The post Transfusion Drink appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Why I Love This Classic Cocktail

Growing up, the classic old fashioned was my mom’s drink of choice, and I remember the rich, complex aroma filling the room. Now, it’s my go-to cocktail when I want something sophisticated and refined. This recipe captures those cherished memories in a glass, blending bourbon, bitters, and a hint of citrus perfectly. Here’s why I love this old fashioned recipe:

• Timeless Classic: A sophisticated and elegant cocktail that never goes out of style.
• Fancy, But Easy: Ready in just 2 minutes, you don’t need to be a cocktail master to make this impressive and sophisticated drink.
• Party Of One: This old fashioned recipe is perfect for a single serving. Double or triple it as needed!
• Aromatic: Angostura bitters, toasty bourbon, and an orange peel give each sip a lovely aroma.

Looking for more simple cocktail recipes? Try my favorite mint mojito, fresh grapefruit paloma, or light and fruity coconut margarita!

Old Fashioned Ingredients

Sweet bourbon, aromatic bitters, and a tart cherry give this old fashioned cocktail its sophisticated flavor profile. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact ingredient amounts.

• Granulated Sugar: You can use regular granulated sugar or a single sugar cube to look like a fancy bartender while preparing the cocktail. Feel free to use light brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor.
• Angostura Bitters: For the most classic taste, use the original angostura bitters. However, I personally love the orange bitters, and some enjoy the cocoa bitters. Try them all to see which makes your favorite old fashioned cocktail.
• Ice: Old fashioned cocktails are meant to be sipped slowly. Using a large ice cube ensures the ice melts slowly so your cocktail does not become watered down. You can usually find them for sale at the liquor store or make your own with square molds or sphere molds.
• Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: Use your favorite. The barrel it was kept in will give it a toasty oak or sweet vanilla flavor.
• Orange Peel: Dried peels work too, but a fresh orange peel adds the most flavor and aromatics.
• Cherry: Go for a maraschino cherry or fresh cherries, or use fancy cocktail cherries to elevate your cocktail to another level.

What’s The Best Liquor For An Old Fashioned?

Bourbon and rye whiskey are the best types of liquor for old fashioned cocktails. Bourbon is mellow and sweeter, whereas rye whiskey is spicier and has a drier kick to it. When made with bourbon, the drink will have a smooth finish. With whiskey, it’ll feel sharper.

How To Make An Old Fashioned Cocktail

A single, large ice cube allows a slow melt, preventing this old fashioned from becoming watered down too quickly. Below is a quick recipe overview, but please scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for full instructions.

• Muddle: Muddle the sugar and bitters in a short rocks glass to combine the flavors. Add the ice and pour in the bourbon.
• Garnish and serve: Use your fingers to twist the orange peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it into the cocktail and add a cherry. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Top shelf: Since the old fashioned is a simple cocktail with just a few ingredients, the quality really matters. Opt for top-shelf bourbon or rye whiskey for the best flavor.
• Chill the glass: I always like to pre-chill the glass for an extra cold cocktail!
• More aroma: Rub the rim of the glass with the orange peel, gently squeezing as you move it along, to release its oils and aroma.
• Change the sweetener: Use dark brown sugar, raw honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead of sugar.
• Don’t shake it: Old fashioned cocktails shouldn’t be shaken because the drink would dilute too much. You only need to stir it for about 20 seconds, giving it just enough time to chill.
• Make it fruity: Muddle 1-2 slices canned peaches, apricots, fresh blackberries, or pitted cherries with the sugar and bitters for a naturally sweeter and fruity drink.
• Swap the garnishes: Lemon and grapefruit peels, candied ginger, dehydrated orange slices, and a rosemary sprig can switch things up.

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Old Fashioned Recipe

This classic old fashioned recipe with caramelized bourbon, spiced Angostura bitters, and fruity garnishes is an easy cocktail for one.

Course Cocktails

Cuisine American

Keyword how to make an old fashioned, old fashioned, old fashioned cocktail, old fashioned recipe

Cook Time 2 minutes minutes

Total Time 2 minutes minutes

Servings 1 Cocktail

Calories 161kcal

Author Jorge

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or 1 sugar cube
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters or orange bitters for more orange flavor
• 1 large ice cube
• 2 oz Bourbon or rye whiskey
• orange peel for garnish
• fresh or maraschino cherry on stem or fancy cocktail cherries, for garnish

Instructions

• In a short rocks glass, add the sugar and Angostura bitters and then muddle together. You can also just stir the two together until the sugar melts.
• Add a single large ice cube to the glass and pour the Bourbon over the top. Stir for 20 seconds.
• Twist the fresh orange peel over the top of the glass to release the oils and aromatics, then drop it into the cocktail. You can also rub the rim of the glass with the orange peel, gently squeezing as you move it along.
• Add a maraschino cherry for garnish, and serve. Cheers!

Notes

Large Ice Cube: I prefer to use a single large ice cube. You can usually find them for sale at the liquor store or make your own with square molds or sphere molds. Old fashioned cocktails are meant to be sipped slowly. Using a large ice cube ensures the ice melts slowly so your cocktail does not become watered down.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 cocktail | Calories: 161kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 1mg | Sugar: 4g | Calcium: 0.5mg | Iron: 0.02mg

More Easy Cocktail Recipes To Try

Dragon Fruit Pink Martini

Pineapple Coconut Mojito

Frozen Mango Margarita

White Peach Sangria

The post Old Fashioned Recipe appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Test Kitchen Approved

“I made these fruity mojitos for a dinner party and they were a hit! Very refreshing and perfect for a hot day. A few guests prefer their drinks a little sweeter, so I added extra simple syrup to theirs and it worked perfectly. You can even add more to taste when serving if needed.” — Brittany, busy mom, chicken wrangler, and homesteader.

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Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Coconut Mojito Recipe

The traditional mojito gets a tropical upgrade with fresh pineapple and coconut juice. It truly puts the “happy” in happy hour!

• So Fresh: The bright fresh flavors from the pineapple, coconut, lime and mint really shine through and compliment each other wonderfully.
• Festive: Garnish cocktail glasses with golden, toasted coconut around a honey-rimmed top. With pineapple chunks and bright green mint leaves on top, this rum cocktail is stunning!
• Party Ready: Quadruple the recipe and serve in a pitcher, your friends and neighbors will definitely thank you. You can even prepare it ahead of time!

Looking for more refreshing and fruity cocktails? Check out my refreshing peach bellini, frozen mango margarita and fresh grapefruit paloma!

Ingredients Needed

Only a few ingredients are needed for these refreshing coconut mojito with pineapple. You will also need a tall highball glass, I love these tall ribbed glasses. Scroll down to the recipe card for exact amounts.

• Honey: For rimming the cocktail glass.
• Toasted Coconut: Shredded coconut is tasty and festive for the rim. Toast your shredded coconut by cooking it in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until golden brown. Cool before using.
• Mint: Fresh mint leaves are available in the produce section of most grocery stores year-round.
• Ice
• Limes: You will need both lime wedges and fresh lime juice.
• Rum: Choose a good quality, white rum. Coconut rum would be delicious to add even more coconut flavor.
• Coconut Pineapple Juice: Find a coconut and pineapple juice in the jarred juice section of most big grocery stores. (See tips section below for substitutions, if needed.)

How to Make Pineapple Mojitos with Coconut

This delightfully refreshing pineapple mojito recipe requires no cocktail shaker or special bartender knowledge to whip up. A little elbow grease for muddling is all you need! Scroll to the recipe card at bottom of the post for full detailed instructions.

• Coconut Rim: Coat the top of a tall glass with honey and press it into toasted coconut.
• Muddle: Add the mint leaves and a lime wedge into the garnished glass. Use the end of a wooden spoon, or a muddler, to press the mint and lime to release the oils.
• Fill: Add ice till glass is about 3/4 full and then pour in the lime and rum. Top with pineapple and coconut juice and stir to combine.
• Garnish: Add a fresh garnish of pineapple chunks, lime and mint leaves to make it extra festive. Serve immediately!

Chef’s Tips and Variations

• Make it Sweeter: Pineapple coconut juice is naturally sweet, but you could add a splash of simple syrup if preferred. Too sweet? Add club soda or coconut water for part of the pineapple coconut juice.
• Non-Alcoholic: Eliminate the rum and top the juices with a little lemon-lime or pineapple soda.
• Coconut Pineapple Juice: If you can’t find it locally, make your own by mixing 50% pineapple juice and 50% coconut water.
• Creamy: While mojitos are not traditionally creamy, I have added a splash of coconut cream (from the top of a can of coconut milk) to add a creaminess.

Make a Large Batch for Parties

Want to make these fruity mojitos for a party? You can even make them ahead! Here’s how:

• Muddle: Use a large pitcher and muddle the mint and lime together for 6 to 8 mojitos.
• Combine: Do not add ice, instead add all other ingredients and give the pitcher a good stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, up to 24 hours.
• Serve: When ready to serve, give everything a good stir and pour into glasses filled with ice.

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Pineapple Coconut Mojito Recipe

Pineapple Coconut Mojitos are a tropical remix of the classic mint mojito mixed with a piña colada. This simple mojito recipe is easy to make, so refreshing and perfect for summer!

Course Cocktails

Cuisine American, Cuban

Keyword coconut mojito, coconut mojito recipe, pineapple coconut mojito, pineapple mojito, pineapple mojito recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 205kcal

Author Jessica

Ingredients

• honey or agave
• toasted shredded coconut
• 8 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime wedge
• 1 cup ice
• 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
• 2 oz white rum
• 4 oz pineapple coconut juice

Instructions

• Place toasted coconut on a small plate. Rim the lip of a tall cocktail glass with honey and press into the toasted coconut.
• Place mint leaves and 1 lime wedge into glass. Use a muddler (or bottom of a wooden spoon) to crush the mint and lime to release the mint oils and lime juice.
• Fill the glass 3/4ths of the way full with ice. Pour the lime juice and rum over the ice. Top it off with pineapple coconut juice. Gently stir.
• Garnish with extra lime, pineapple, and mint on a skewer if you’re feeling fancy! Serve immediately.

Video

Notes

Make a Large Batch in a Pitcher: 

• Muddle: Use a large pitcher and muddle the mint and lime together for 6 to 8 mojitos.
• Combine: Do not add ice, instead add all other ingredients and give the pitcher a good stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, up to 24 hours.
• Serve: When ready to serve, give everything a good stir and pour into glasses filled with ice.

Make it Sweeter: Pineapple coconut juice is naturally sweet, but you could add a splash of simple syrup if preferred. Too sweet? Add club soda or coconut water for part of the pineapple coconut juice.

Non-Alcoholic: Eliminate the rum and top the juices with a little lemon-lime or pineapple soda.

Coconut Pineapple Juice: If you can’t find it locally, make your own by mixing 50% pineapple juice and 50% coconut water.

Creamy: While mojitos are not traditionally creamy, I have added a splash of coconut cream (from the top of a can of coconut milk) to add a creaminess.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cocktail | Calories: 205kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 224mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 360IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 1mg

More Must-Make Mojito Recipes

Blueberry Mojito

Coconut Mojito

Strawberry Mojito Recipe

The Best Mojito Recipe

The post Pineapple Coconut Mojito appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Why You’ll Love This Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

This quick, sweet cocktail that doubles as a mocktail is sure to be your new autumn favorite. Here’s why:

• Crisp and Cozy: Spiked apple cider is the perfect drink for autumn, with the seasonal taste of real apple cider and Kentucky bourbon.
• Customizable: Spiked apple cider is so easy to tweak. Adjust it to your liking by changing the type and amount of alcohol you add. Or experiment with different spices and garnishes, such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, or orange slices.
• Easy to Make: No bartender skills needed! Spiked apple cider is incredibly easy to prepare. And you can make it in large batches for a crowd, or in single servings for smaller get-togethers. 

(For apple cider goodness, be sure to check out this rum-laced, whipped-cream-topped apple cider cocktail and this instant pot pumpkin apple cider!)

What Is Spiked Cider Made Of?

To make this simple cocktail, you will need some good apple cider (not hard cider) and a few cocktail basics. For full ingredient amounts and directions, scroll to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Apple Cider: I used some homemade cider that I picked up locally, but any good apple cider or unfiltered apple juice will work!
• Ginger Beer: You can also use ginger ale, however ginger beer has a much stronger and spicier ginger taste.
• Bourbon: Smoky bourbon is perfect to take this drink from mocktail to cocktail. If you don’t have bourbon, any whiskey is fine. You could also use brandy.
• Ice: I like crushed ice here.
• Optional Garnishes: Candied ginger and cubed apples make great garnishes, or use a sprig of fresh rosemary!

What Alcohol Is Good with Apple Cider?

Apple cider pairs well with lots of different liquors, including bourbon, whiskey, rum, brandy, and cinnamon or apple-flavored liqueurs. You can definitely experiment to find your favorite combination!

How to Make Spiked Apple Cider

Nothing fancy here – just mix and pour. The apple cider and bourbon should be mixed first. When you’re ready to serve, pour the cider-bourbon mixture over crushed ice, and then top it off with ginger beer for a fizzy finish. Garnishes go on top for a nice presentation, and you’re done!

Tips for Success

These simple tips will help you create the perfect spiked apple cider cocktail. Your fall and winter just got a lot more festive!

• Quality Apple Cider: The tastiest apple ciders are fresh-pressed. Look for cider without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.
• Alcohol Content: If you want to adjust the strength of your cocktail, start with a smaller amount of bourbon, and then add more if desired. Be careful not to overpower the natural apple cider flavor.
• Sweeten as Needed: If your drink is a little too sharp, you can add a touch of sweetness with some honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup. 
• Garnish Options: Garnishes like citrus slices, apples, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary) can really elevate your drink experience.

Variations For This Apple Cider Cocktail

There are so many ways to change up a spiked apple cider, and each one is so delicious. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Hot Toddy Apple Cider: Gently warm the apple cider on the stove, and then add the bourbon. A little bit of honey and lemon, with a cinnamon stick for stirring/garnish, makes this warm drink that much more festive.
• Maple Bourbon Apple Cider: Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup and a sprig of rosemary to your spiked apple cider. This one is good hot or cold. 
• Pear and Ginger Apple Cider: Substitute a bit of pear brandy for the bourbon, and garnish the cocktail with slices of fresh pear.
• Cinnamon Sugar Rim: Another fun option is to rim your glass with cinnamon sugar. Place a mixture of granulated sugar or raw sugar and a pinch of cinnamon on a shallow plate. Use a lemon, orange or honey to wet the rim of your glass and press it into the cinnamon sugar.

Storing Spiked Apple Cider

Spiked apple cider can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. However, the ginger beer will definitely go flat long before that time, so I really recommend making and serving this drink fresh! Thankfully it only takes a couple of minutes to prepare!

More Festive Cocktail Recipes

• Cranberry Halloween Punch
• Pumpkin Coquito
• White Peach Sangria
• Mulled Wine
• Pomegranate Margarita
• Puerto Rican Coquito
• Homemade Eggnog

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Spiked Apple Cider

This easy Spiked Apple Cider is a sweet, refreshing fall cocktail with real apple cider, spicy ginger beer, and smoky bourbon. It can also be made as a sweet apple cider mocktail for the kiddos!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword apple cider cocktail, mocktail, spiked apple cider, spiked cider

Prep Time 2 minutes minutes

Total Time 2 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Calories 124kcal

Author Jessica – The Novice Chef

Ingredients

• 3 oz apple cider
• 2 oz ginger beer or ginger ale
• 1 oz bourbon whiskey or rum
• crushed ice
• candied ginger and sliced fresh apple optional garnish

Instructions

• Mix apple cider and bourbon and pour over crushed ice. Add ginger beer and garnish with candied ginger and apple. Serve immediately.

Notes

Quality Apple Cider: The tastiest apple ciders are fresh-pressed. Look for cider without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.

Alcohol Content: If you want to adjust the strength of your cocktail, start with a smaller amount of bourbon, and then add more if desired. Be careful not to overpower the natural apple cider flavor.

Sweeten as Needed: If your drink is a little too sharp, you can add a touch of sweetness with some honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup. 

Garnish Options: Garnishes like citrus slices, apples, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary) can really elevate your drink experience.

Cinnamon Sugar Rim: Another fun option is to rim your glass with cinnamon sugar. Place a mixture of granulated sugar or raw sugar and a pinch of cinnamon on a shallow plate. Use a lemon, orange or honey to wet the rim of your glass and press it into the cinnamon sugar.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 124kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 87mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.2mg

The post Spiked Apple Cider appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Why You’ll Love This Festive Apple Cider Punch Recipe

Here are a few reasons your guests will rave about this sparkling apple cider punch:

• Easy to Make: This is so easy to make! Just mix everything together, wait a while for the flavors to meld together, and then enjoy. 
• Festive: This punch combines the crisp flavor of sweet apple cider with fragrant orange, cinnamon, maple, and rosemary – it’s just so good and looks beautiful as well.
• Customizable: The addition of maple syrup or simple syrup is optional, allowing you to adjust the sweetness to your preference. You can adjust the other ingredients as well, to create the perfect flavor combo.
• Sophisticated: There’s nothing boring about this punch! Kids and grownups alike will appreciate the simple, but sophisticated taste and gorgeous appearance.
• Alcoholic Option: There are a few different ways to spike this punch. Keep reading for all kinds of tips and tricks!
• Make Ahead: The punch can be made in advance and stored for up to three days. This makes it an extra-practical choice for parties or get-togethers.

Ingredients Needed

With all of the big, bold flavors going on here, you might think this would be a complicated recipe… if so, think again! Apple cider punch might just be the easiest thing you make for your party. For full ingredient amounts and directions, scroll to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Apple Cider: A quality apple cider makes a big difference, so splurge on a good one! This is sweet, non-alcoholic cider, not hard cider.
• Lemonade: Make your own, or use your favorite store-bought lemonade for extra convenience. 
• Orange Juice: Juice with no pulp will make this drink smoother, while orange juice with pulp will add a bit of texture. Use whichever you like! 
• Maple Syrup: Adding maple syrup, or simple syrup is optional, but if your juice and cider are on the tart side, it can make the punch taste more balanced.
• Apples: Cored and sliced.
• Orange: Washed but not peeled, and cut into slices.
• Cinnamon Sticks 
• Rosemary
• Sparkling Water: Sparkling water gives the punch a lovely bubbliness. Sparkling white wine would also be great.
• Ice: For serving.

Is Apple Cider Just Apple Juice and Cinnamon?

Apple cider and apple juice are similar, but they aren’t quite the same. So what’s the difference? You might think it’s cinnamon, but a lot of fresh apple ciders don’t actually contain spices.

Apple cider is basically made by pressing fresh apple ciders, including the pulp, skin, and core. This makes a super-flavorful juice that’s cloudy and rich. Apple juice is made similarly, but it’s filtered to remove all of the solids, giving you a clear juice. 

How to Make Apple Cider Punch

Making this apple cider punch is so easy, and you can even do it ahead of time if you like! Here’s how:

• Mix the liquids: In a large pitcher, combine the apple cider, lemonade, orange juice and maple syrup. Stir these until they’re well-combined.
• Add the fruit: Add the apple slices, orange slices, rosemary sprigs, and cinnamon sticks. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to infuse the flavors (or overnight).
• Finish: Combine the infused cider mixture with the sparkling water (or sparkling wine!) and ice before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Here are some helpful tips for making this punch. Read on, and enjoy your perfect autumn party drink!

• Ice: Since this recipe serves a crowd, I recommend using large cubes of ice to chill it. Larger cubes melt more slowly. You can also add a block of dry ice to make your punch smoke for a spooky halloween twist.
• Make It Boozy: Adding sparkling wine instead of water is a good way to make this drink alcoholic. However, if you’d rather have a hard liquor taste, simply pour a cup or so of your favorite bourbon, brandy, vodka, or rum into your punch before serving. You can also allow guests to add a shot to their individual glass before adding the punch.
• Consider Separating Batches: For kids, designated drivers, and other guests who might be avoiding alcohol, you might want to separate this punch into two bowls – one alcoholic, and one not. Then clearly label them (individual chalkboards are cute for this), and enjoy.

Yummy Variations

Want some more ideas for serving this refreshing apple cider punch? I’ve got you covered! Here are just a few ideas for starters.

• Spiced Apple Sangria: Turn this simple punch into a gorgeous sangria by using white wine (sparkling or not) instead of water, and adding sliced pears and cranberries for even more fruit. You could also add more whole spices, like cloves and star anise, if you like.
• Caramel Apple Mocktail: Replace the maple syrup with caramel syrup for a bolder taste. You could even consider drizzling caramel sauce inside the glasses before pouring the drinks for extra caramel flavor.
• Cranberry Apple Fizz: Cranberries are another beautiful fall and winter ingredient, so you might want to try jazzing up this punch by replacing the lemonade with cranberry juice (or cranberry juice cocktail) for a tart, complex taste. Throw some fresh cranberries in, too!

How to Store Apple Cider Punch

You can store this punch for up to three days in the fridge, tightly covered. If you’re planning on storing it for a while, you might want to consider straining out the garnishes. If you’re making it ahead, you can wait to add the garnishes until about 2 to 12 hours before you plan to serve it.

Can I Freeze This?

You can freeze any leftover punch, but you’ll want to strain out the garnishes first. Also, keep in mind that the sparkling water or wine will not stay fizzy once frozen and thawed. Still, it will stay safe to drink for a long time, as long as six months or a year, if frozen. You can serve it again by thawing it out, or by making a slushie.

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Apple Cider Punch

An autumn favorite, this sparkling Apple Cider Punch is full of fall flavors, and looks gorgeous for a party! Serve it as-is for the whole family, or add some alcohol to make a boozy version for the adults.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword apple cider drinks, apple cider punch, party punch, punch

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 14

Calories 122kcal

Author Jessica – The Novice Chef

Ingredients

• 5 cups apple cider
• 2 cups lemonade
• 2 cups orange juice
• ¼ cup maple syrup or simple syrup, optional
• 4 apples cored and sliced
• 1 orange sliced with rind on
• 5-6 cinnamon sticks
• 5 rosemary sprigs
• 5 cups sparkling water
• Ice for serving

Instructions

• In a large pitcher, mix together the apple cider, lemonade, orange juice and maple syrup until well combined.
• Add the apple, orange, rosemary sprigs and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to infuse the flavors, or overnight.
• Combine the infused cider mixture with the sparkling water (or wine) and ice before serving, enjoy!

Notes

Storing/Make Ahead: You can store this punch for up to three days in the fridge, tightly covered. If you’re planning on storing it for a while, you might want to consider straining out the garnishes. If you’re making it ahead, you can wait to add the garnishes until about 2 to 12 hours before you plan to serve it.

Ice: Since this recipe serves a crowd, I recommend using large cubes of ice to chill it. Larger cubes melt more slowly. You can also add a block of dry ice to make your punch smoke for a spooky halloween twist.

Make It Boozy: Adding sparkling wine instead of water is a good way to make this drink alcoholic. However, if you’d rather have a hard liquor taste, simply pour a cup or so of your favorite bourbon, brandy, vodka, or rum into your punch before serving. You can also allow guests to add a shot to their individual glass before adding the punch.

Consider Separating Batches: For kids, designated drivers, and other guests who might be avoiding alcohol, you might want to separate this punch into two bowls – one alcoholic, and one not. Then clearly label them (individual chalkboards are cute for this), and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 122kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 25mg | Potassium: 251mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 135IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 0.4mg

The post Apple Cider Punch appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Why You’ll Love This Boozy Cranberry Halloween Punch

Get into the Halloween spirit with this enchanting Halloween punch for adults, or leave out the booze for the kiddos to enjoy it as well! It’s an irresistible blend of real fruit juices, vodka, and sparkling soda water. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Festive and Fun: This punch is perfect for Halloween gatherings and parties. The deep red color and frozen cranberries create a striking and spooky effect.
• Balanced Flavor: Tart cranberry and deep, sweet grape juices are so flavorful together. The addition of vodka adds plenty of kick, while soda water makes it all refreshingly fizzy.
• Customizable: Tweak this one to suit your taste! For example, you can make a batch with the full amount of vodka, or reduce the amount for a milder option. You can also use different types of alcohol or juices to fit your tastes. You can also use sugar free, or low sugar, fruit juices.
• Easy to Make: This punch comes together quickly in just a few simple steps. Minimal effort means more time for partying!
• Festive: The optional garnishes of rosemary and dehydrated orange slices bring a touch of elegance to the punch bowl. For a spooky twist, create a smoke cloud pooling off the top of your punch by adding a block of dry ice.

Looking for more Halloween recipes? These Halloween cocoa bombs are always a hit with my kids, as well as these adorable Halloween spider cinnamon rolls. If you are looking for another festive cocktail to serve, try this creepy glow-in-the-dark re-animator serum served in test tubes.

What You’ll Need

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this drink, that’s as delicious as it is striking to look at. For full ingredient amounts and directions, scroll to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Punch

• Grape Juice and Cranberry Juice: Look for quality, 100% juices.
• Vodka: The clean taste of vodka allows you to “spike” this punch without overwhelming the taste of the juices.
• Frozen Cranberries: You can use store-bought frozen cranberries, or wash and freeze your own. These help to keep your punch cold!
• Soda Water: For a fizzy finish that won’t add too much sweetness.

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
• Dehydrated Orange Slices

How to Make Cranberry Halloween Punch

This easy, cranberry Halloween punch is even more when you garnish it with rosemary twigs and dehydrated orange slices, this punch is a bewitching centerpiece. And making it is so simple.

• Chill the Juices: Fill a pitcher with the cranberry juice, grape juice, and vodka. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Add Cranberries. When ready to serve, add frozen cranberries to the pitcher.
• Add Soda Water. Then you can either top each individual glass with soda water to taste, or you can stir the soda water into the pitcher and serve immediately. (If I think the punch will sit for a while, I add the soda water to the glasses as I serve them. That way, each glass is bubbly and fresh.)
• Enjoy! Pour into serving glasses filled with ice, and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and dehydrated orange slices, if desired.

Helpful Tips

Overall, this cranberry Halloween punch recipe is refreshing, easy, and will totally wow your guests. These tips and tricks will make it that much better:

• Ingredients: Opt for 100% cranberry juice and grape juice. without added sugars or artificial flavors. This will ensure a more authentic, flavorful punch. However, you can swap them for sugar free juice if need be.
• Chill: Before making the punch, make sure the cranberry juice, grape juice, soda water, and vodka are chilled. This will help keep the punch cold and refreshing. 
• Cranberries: By adding the frozen cranberries to the pitcher filled with ice, you can help keep the punch chilled without diluting it too quickly. The cranberries also make a gorgeous decoration, of course!
• Garnishing: While the garnishes are definitely optional, fresh rosemary and dehydrated orange slices add an unexpectedly beautiful color and fragrance. I highly recommend using them!
• Punch Cups: For even more flair, serve the cranberry Halloween punch in eerie, festive, Halloween-themed cups or glasses. I love how spooky these skull cocktail glasses look filled with this blood red punch!
• Spooky Smoke: Want to add a spooky smoke finish to your halloween punch? Skip the regular ice and add a bag of dry ice! Just be careful not to touch the dry ice with your bare hands.

Easy Variations

There are also a number of interesting ways to spin this recipe. Want to change things up? Just try one of these easy, delicious variations: 

• Flavored Vodka: To add an extra layer of flavor to your punch, try using flavored vodka such as cranberry or orange.
• Other Types of Alcohol: Gin, a smooth tequila, or even a light rum could be added to this punch! You can use any alcohol you prefer.
• Sweet-Tart: Taste the punch after combining all the ingredients, and if desired, adjust the sweetness or tartness. You can add a bit of honey or simple syrup to sweeten it up, or a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to enhance the tartness. 
• Non-Alcoholic: If you have guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the vodka. Increase the amount of cranberry juice or grape juice, or even add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for extra fizz. This option also works to allow the adults to be able to add their preferred alcohol to their individual punch glass.

How to Store This Cranberry Halloween Punch

Once the soda water is added, this punch is best served immediately – you want people to enjoy it while it is bubbly. Before the soda water is added, the punch can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week!

Can I Freeze Alcoholic Punch?

Actually, yes! It may not totally freeze, because of the alcohol content, but leftover punch with alcohol can be frozen for months at a time! Just portion it into freezer containers or bags, leaving a small amount of room for expansion, and freeze. Thaw it in your fridge before serving, or throw it in the blender for a more slushie-like experience. 

More Fun Halloween Recipes

• Pumpkin Pie Pops
• DIY Pretzel & Chocolate Spiders
• Easy Pumpkin Cupcakes
• Pumpkin Cheese Ball
• Mummy Hot Dogs
• Pumpkin Coquito
• Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

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Cranberry Halloween Punch

A super easy Cranberry Halloween Punch recipe made with cranberry juice, vodka, grape juice and soda water to create a spooky, sparkling, blood-red batched cocktail! You can also prep this punch ahead, making it perfect for a Halloween party.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic punch for halloween, cranberry punch, halloween drink ideas, halloween punch

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 324kcal

Author Jessica – The Novice Chef

Ingredients

• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 2 cups grape juice
• 2 cups vodka
• 2 cups frozen cranberries
• 4 cups soda water

Optional Garnishes:

• Rosemary Sprigs
• Dehydrated Orange Slices

Instructions

• Fill a pitcher with the cranberry juice, grape juice and vodka. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
• When ready to serve, add frozen cranberries to the pitcher.
• Then you can either top each individual glass with soda water to taste, or you can stir in the soda water into the pitcher and serve immediately. (If I think the punch will sit for a while, I like to add the soda water to each glass as it’s served to keep it fresh and bubbly for each person.)
• Pour into serving glasses, like these spooky skull cocktail glasses, filled with ice and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and dehydrated orange slices, if desired.

Notes

Storage: Once the soda water is added, this punch is best served immediately – you want people to enjoy it while it is bubbly. Before the soda water is added, the punch can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week!

Spooky Smoke: Want to add a spooky smoke finish to your halloween punch? Skip the regular ice and add a bag of dry ice! Just be careful not to touch the dry ice with your bare hands.

Flavored Vodka: To add an extra layer of flavor to your punch, try using flavored vodka such as cranberry or orange.

Other Types of Alcohol: Gin, a smooth tequila, or even a light rum could be added to this punch! You can use any alcohol you prefer.

Sweet-Tart: Taste the punch after combining all the ingredients, and if desired, adjust the sweetness or tartness. You can add a bit of honey or simple syrup to sweeten it up, or a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to enhance the tartness. 

Non-Alcoholic: If you have guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the vodka. Increase the amount of cranberry juice or grape juice, or even add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for extra fizz. This option also works to allow the adults to be able to add their preferred alcohol to their individual punch glass.

Nutrition

Calories: 324kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 144mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 54IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.5mg

The post Cranberry Halloween Punch appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Mojito Recipe

You’ll be turning your kitchen into an at-home bar with this creamy coconut mojito recipe!

• Easy. Since you don’t even need a cocktail shaker, this recipe is perfect even for beginners.
• Quick. It only takes 5 minutes. Everyone’s got that kind of time. No prep is needed!
• Tropical. Aren’t coconuts the definition of tropical? This recipe has coconut rum, coconut cream, and you can even add a shredded coconut rim.
• Great for the summer. Topped with fresh mint and served with lots of ice, this mojito is a refreshing summer cocktail.

Watch How To Make It

Want to see how to make this easy coconut mojito recipe from start to finish? Here’s a step-by-step video:

Love a refreshing mint mojito? Me too! Here are a few more favorites you should try: pineapple coconut mojito, strawberry mojito, blueberry mojito, and the best classic mojito that can be easily made for a crowd.

What You’ll Need

Fortunately you won’t have to climb up a palm tree to find all the coconut goodness in your drink. For full ingredient amounts and directions, scroll to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Simple Syrup: I have a great easy recipe, but feel free to use your favorite.
• Fresh Mint Leaves
• Lime: Lemon will work in a pinch, but you really want that fresh zingy lime flavor.
• Coconut Rum: You can use any rum you prefer, but coconut rum will help to give you a great boost in coconut flavor.
• Coconut Cream: The thick coconut cream from the top of a can of coconut milk. They also sell cans of straight canned coconut cream.
• Club Soda: You can also use tonic water or sparkling mineral water.

Optional Garnishes

• Shredded Coconut: You get bonus points if it’s toasted!
• Mint Leaves
• Lime Wedges
• Sugar Cane Swizzle Stick

What’s The Best Rum for a Mojito?

I used coconut rum for more flavor in the recipe, but generally speaking, white or silver rum are best for making mojitos. They’ve got a clean, sharp taste that allows the rest of the ingredients to shine through.

How to Make a Coconut Mojito

Muddling is a technique used to gently mash herbs and/or fruit to release the essence or juices. Now that you know this, you’ll feel like a true bartender whipping up this coconut mojito.

• Muddle the mint. Add the simple syrup, mint, and limes to the glass. Muddle them together with a muddler or with the back of a wooden spoon.
• Top it off. Stir in the rum and coconut cream. Fill the glass with ice and top it off with club soda. Garnish and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Follow these tips to increase the burst of flavor you get in every sip!

• Up the coconut. You can use coconut sparkling water in place of the club soda for maximum coconut goodness. La Croix makes a good one, but you can use your favorite.
• Get coconut milk. If you can’t find canned coconut cream by itself, buy a can of coconut milk and scrape the thickened coconut cream off the top. Make sure not to shake your can of coconut milk before opening. If you shake the can, it will make the thick coconut cream separate.
• Make it fruitier. Adding 2 to 3 tablespoons of diced coconut flesh into the drink will give it lots of texture and added fruitiness. You can also add a hearty splash of pineapple juice to give more fruity flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This coconut mojito recipe is perfect with easy appetizers like my chipotle chicken empanadas. You can also serve along side bowls of restaurant style salsa, authentic guacamole or mango salsa with tortilla chips for snacking. Keep it nice and simple for an effortless night of drinks!

Can Mojitos Be Prepared In Advance?

This coconut mojito is best served immediately, but you can prep part of the recipe up to a day in advance. Don’t add the coconut cream, club soda, or ice until right before serving so it doesn’t separate.

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Coconut Mojito

This creamy coconut mojito with fresh mint is the tropical 5-minute cocktail you'll be sipping on all summer. 

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American, Cuban

Keyword coconut mojito, coconut mojito recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 305kcal

Ingredients

• 1 oz simple syrup
• 6 fresh mint leaves
• Half of 1 lime quartered
• 2 oz coconut rum
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 4 oz club soda

Instructions

• In a large highball glass (16 oz), muddle together the simple syrup, mint leaves and quartered limes. (Muddling is a technique used to gently mash herbs and/or fruit to release the essence or juices. I recommend using a muddler for best results, however the back of a wooden spoon can be used in a pinch.)
• Stir in the rum and coconut cream. Top with ice (to the top of the glass) and then top with club soda. Garnish as desired and serve!

Video

Notes

Storage: Mojitos are best made and served fresh. 

Rum: I use coconut rum for more flavor in the recipe, but generally speaking, white or silver rum are best for making mojitos. They’ve got a clean, sharp taste that allows the rest of the ingredients to shine through.

Make it fruitier. Adding 2 to 3 tablespoons of diced coconut flesh into the drink will give it lots of texture and added fruitiness. You can also add a hearty splash of pineapple juice to give more fruity flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cocktail | Calories: 305kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Sodium: 44mg | Potassium: 148mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 255IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 2mg

More Summer Cocktails To Try

• If you’ve never tried a transfusion drink, you’re really missing out! It’s sweet, citrusy, and so refreshing.
• My dragon fruit pink martini recipe is so pink – I call it my Barbie drink!
• For a truly tropical cocktail experience, shake up a coconut margarita.
• White peach sangria is one of my most popular cocktails. Once you try it, you’ll see why!

The post Coconut Mojito appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Why You’ll Love Making This Simple Vanilla Syrup

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, vanilla simple syrup should definitely be in your recipe box. Here’s why:

• Flavor: Instantly add the dessert-like goodness of vanilla to anything – coffee, tea, sauces, cakes, you name it!
• All-Natural: If you love adding a flavorful shot to your drinks, but you don’t like using artificial flavors or colors, this vanilla syrup is the answer.
• Simple to Make: It is literally a very “simple” syrup – if you can boil water, you can make this!

(For unflavored syrup, check out this easy Simple Syrup recipe. It’s the classic simple syrup used for cocktails and more!)

What Is Vanilla Simple Syrup?

Vanilla simple syrup is a sweet, sticky syrup that is made with sugar and water, rather than maple syrup or corn syrup. It also includes vanilla, to make it not only a great sweetener but also a flavor boost. You may be familiar with adding vanilla simple syrup to your morning coffee, brushing it over cakes to seal in moisture, or adding it to your favorite cocktail.

What Is Vanilla Syrup Made Of?

To make this easy vanilla syrup, you’ll need just a handful of basic ingredients. You probably already have them on hand! Vanilla syrup is made of…

• Sugar: Plain granulated sugar gives the syrup the perfect sweetness, without any additional flavors. I highly recommend it.
• Water: The amount will vary depending on how thick you want the syrup to be. (See the Helpful Tips section for more on this!)
• Vanilla: While some recipes recommend extract, I prefer using a vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise.

How to Make Vanilla Syrup

Making this recipe is as easy as can be – all you have to do is simmer the ingredients and then cool them down. With ten minutes and a little know-how, you’ll have this smooth, luscious sweetener ready to go.

• Heat the Water and Sugar. Combine the water and sugar in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
• Add the Vanilla Bean. Drop the vanilla bean into the saucepan, and let it cook for two minutes.

• Cool. Take the saucepan off of the heat, and let it cool for an hour.
• Store. Take out the vanilla bean (or strain the syrup if there are broken pieces of the vanilla bean in it). Pour into a clean glass jar with a lid, and store in the fridge.
• Enjoy! Use your simple syrup for whatever you like!

What Is the Difference Between Vanilla and Vanilla Syrup?

When you see “vanilla” listed in a recipe, you might wonder if you can just use your vanilla syrup instead. Are they the same? Not exactly – but you can sometimes swap them for each other. Here’s the deal:

• Vanilla: This almost always means vanilla extract. Vanilla extract is made by soaking vanilla beans in a liquid, usually some sort of alcohol, like vodka. This turns the alcohol into a vanilla-flavored liquid that can be used in baking and cooking.
• Vanilla Syrup: Also known as vanilla simple syrup, this is a vanilla-flavored liquid, but with one important difference: it’s sweetened! With the addition of sugar, this turns into a sticky, syrupy liquid that adds vanilla flavor and sweetness.

You can substitute these ingredients for each other sometimes. If you have a recipe that calls for vanilla and sugar, but you want to use vanilla syrup, that’s fine. Just add the vanilla syrup to taste, and reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe as needed since the vanilla syrup already includes sugar.

If you need vanilla syrup, but you only have vanilla extract, that can work – just add a small amount of the extract, since it’s very strong, and then add a sweetener for that sugary taste. Agave nectar, honey, or maple syrup can all be used with vanilla extract to mimic the taste of vanilla syrup.

Helpful Tips

To ensure that your experience is a breeze, check out these helpful tips. Each one will help ensure that your simple syrup turns out perfectly.

• High-Quality Ingredients: Using the best ingredients you have goes a long way toward making a fragrant, flavorful syrup that you’ll really enjoy.
• Vanilla Bean vs. Vanilla Extract vs. Vanilla Bean Paste: If you don’t have whole vanilla beans, you can use extract or paste instead. Vanilla bean paste will give the final product those pretty flecks, but it’s not as easy to find as pure vanilla extract. If you use these, aim for one tablespoon per cup of sugar.
• Simmering and Boiling: To dissolve the sugar and thicken the syrup, you need to simmer/boil the ingredients. If you’re using a vanilla bean, you can boil that, too. If you’re using paste or extract, stir them in at the end – don’t boil them. Boiling and simmering can reduce the freshness of the flavor.
• Rich Syrup: The recipe as written is a 1:1 ratio (meaning equal parts water and sugar). For a thicker, sweeter syrup, also known as a rich syrup, double the amount of sugar. Rich simple syrup adds a pleasant mouthfeel to cocktails!
• Spoiled Syrup: You will need a clean, dry jar with a lid to store the syrup. Any moisture in the jar can help bacteria to grow. Make sure to check the syrup each time you use it – if it seems cloudy or has a strange smell, it is probably spoiled and should be thrown away! Good syrup has a pleasant fragrance and should be nice and clear.

How to Use Vanilla Syrup

Now for the fun part – putting your homemade vanilla simple syrup to use! You can add it just as it is to coffee, tea, cocktails, lemonade… the possibilities are endless. I like to add it to iced coffee.

In addition, simple syrups like this are great for baking. A great baker’s trick is brushing simple syrup over a freshly baked cake to seal in moisture and softness. Yum! You can also brush it over pastries, donuts, or French toast for a light “glaze.”

Storing and Freezing

Vanilla syrup is so easy to store! All you have to do is make sure that you use a clean, dry, sealable container – a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid is perfect. Wash it well, and let it air dry. Moisture is the enemy here, since it can cause bacteria to grow.

Once your jar and lid are washed and air-dried, pour in the cooled syrup. Store in your refrigerator for up to one month, or in your freezer for up to one year. If at any point the syrup seems cloudy or bad-smelling, discard it.

More Essential Recipes

• Easy Lemon Curd
• Homemade Elderberry Syrup
• Dulce de Leche
• Homemade Ricotta Cheese
• Homemade Chamoy
• Homemade Nutella
• Salted Caramel Sauce

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Vanilla Syrup

Made with just 3 simple ingredients and 10 minutes of work, this fragrant Vanilla Simple Syrup is the perfect homemade sweetener for your favorite drinks from coffee to cocktails.

Course Condiments & Sauces

Cuisine American

Keyword homemade simple syrup, how to make vanilla syrup, vanilla simple syrup, vanilla syrup

Prep Time 2 minutes minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 1 and 1/3 cups

Calories 782kcal

Author Jessica

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean split lengthwise

Instructions

• Add water and sugar to a medium sized saucepan over medium high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar has dissolved.
• Add the vanilla bean and cook for 2 minutes more, then remove from the heat. Allow the syrup to cool for at least 1 hour with the vanilla bean steeping in the syrup.
• Remove the vanilla bean from the saucepan and discard. (If there are any large bits from the vanilla bean, you can strain the simple syrup through a fine mesh sieve or cheese cloth.)
• Use immediately or transfer to a clean glass jar with a lid for storage. Store vanilla simple syrup in jar, tightly sealed, in the fridge for up to a month.

Notes

Storage: Store the vanilla simple syrup in a clean, dry glass jar with a clean, dry, tight-fitting lid. Moisture can cause syrup to spoil. Refrigerate for up to 1 month, or freeze for up to 1 year.

Spoilage: Cloudy or bad-smelling vanilla syrup is spoiled and should be discarded. 

Nutrition

Calories: 782kcal | Carbohydrates: 200g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 14mg | Potassium: 4mg | Sugar: 200g | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.1mg

The post Vanilla Syrup appeared first on The Novice Chef.

Perfectly Pink Martini

If you are looking for a bright pink martini, look no further than this refreshing Dragon Fruit Martini! It strikes a perfect balance of sweet and fruity, without being overwhelming. No matter if you are throwing a barbie party, summer pool party, or just hanging out on a hot summer night, this pretty pink martini will fit right in. Each sip is somehow better than the last!

Using simple ingredients like dragon fruit syrup, a floral-y gin, a sprig of fresh mint and a little freshly squeezed lemon juice, this cocktail is quick and easy to whip together. Poured into a martini glass with an adorable pink sugar rim, this pink martini is party ready!

Watch How To Make It

Want to see how to make this easy dragon fruit martini from start to finish? Here’s a step-by-step video:

Ingredients Needed

You only need a few ingredients, most can be found at your local liquor store. For the full ingredient amounts and directions, scroll down to the bottom of this post for to the printable recipe card.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give your drink just the right zing. Save the lemon rind to use to rim your glass.
• Dragon Fruit Syrup: If you can’t find dragon fruit syrup, any other pink/red syrup will do. I suggest strawberry syrup, raspberry syrup or even rosé syrup.
• Pink Love Gin: You can use any kind of gin you prefer, but I love this Pink Love Gin because it is both fruity and floral gin, without being overpowering. It gives your cocktail a unique flavor!
• Fresh Mint: A sprig of fresh mint.
• Pink Sanding Sugar: This is optional, but it makes a great pink rim on your martini glass.

Where To Buy Fruit Syrup

I purchased my dragon fruit syrup on amazon (linked above), as I was unable to find it locally. If you are in a time crunch, you may have more luck using another more commonly used fruit syrup like strawberry or raspberry.

You can often find fruit syrups in large liquor stores like Total Wine or Specs. Occasionally you will find them in large grocery stores near the coffee syrups. World Market also sells a large variety of Torani brand syrups in store.

How To Make A Pink Martini

Just a few quick steps and you will be sipping away:

• Chilled Glass: This first step is optional, but I like to start with a chilled martini glass to keep my drink extra chilled. 30 minutes before you are ready to serve your cocktail, pop your martini glass into the freezer.
• Muddle The Mint: Place a fresh mint sprig in your cocktail shaker and muddle it with a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon. This will release the oils from the mint.

• Shake: Add ice, lemon juice, dragon fruit simple syrup and gin to shaker. Shake your cocktail shaker for 30 seconds, until your hand is freezing.
• Pink Rim: Use your lemon rind and wipe it around the rim of your martini glass and then dip and roll your glass in the pink sprinkle sugar.
• Serve: Strain cocktail from shaker into your martini glass and enjoy immediately!

Tips and Variations

This pink martini is super easy, but here are a few variations and tips to guarantee success:

• Vodka: Not a gin fan? No worries! You can easily swap out the gin for vodka. I have even seen dragon fruit flavored vodka recently if you wanted to really punch up the flavor.
• Kid Friendly: Have kids that want their own pink drink? You can also use fruit syrups in lemonade for the kids! Just add half an ounce to a glass of lemonade.
• Dragon Fruit Garnish: Dragon fruit is a very pretty fruit and makes a great garnish for your cocktail as well. Slice it into rounds like you would a lemon and place it on the edge of your martini glass.
• Make It Sparkle: Feeling festive? Add some edible glitter to your cocktail! Add it into your cocktail shaker before you shake your cocktail. It will make your martini truly shimmer in the glass!
• Chilled: This martini is best served chilled. Make sure you shake your martini glass for at least 30 seconds before straining into a glass. To keep your martini from warming up quickly, I highly suggest using a chilled martini glass.

Can I Make This Dragon Fruit Martini Ahead?

Sadly martinis are best served freshly shaken over ice, so you can not prepare them fully ahead of time.

However, if you are having a party, you can prepare a large pitcher with the lemon juice, dragon fruit syrup and gin up to 2 days before and store it in the refrigerator. (Check below in the recipe card notes for amounts.)

When ready to serve, make sure to stir up your pre-made martini mix well. Then muddle the mint in the cocktail shaker, add ice, and pour in 4 oz of the pre-made martini mix. Shake well and serve!

More Fruity Cocktail Recipes

Lucky for you, I love refreshing and fruity cocktails! Here are a few more cocktails I think you will love:

• Frozen Mango Margarita
• Blueberry Mojito
• Frozen Peach Bellini
• Strawberry Mojito
• Coconut Margarita
• Mexican Candy Shot
• White Peach Sangria
• Watermelon Margaritas
• Fresh Grapefruit Paloma

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Dragon Fruit Pink Martini

This Dragon Fruit Pink Martini is deliciously fruity and refreshing for summer! Ready in 5 minutes and with just 4 ingredients, you can quickly shake up just one or make a whole batch!

Course Cocktails

Cuisine American

Keyword barbie cocktail, barbie martini, dragon fruit cocktail, dragon fruit martini, pink cocktail, pink martini

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 214kcal

Author Jessica – The Novice Chef

Ingredients

• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice save your lemon rind
• 1 oz Dragon Fruit Syrup
• 2 oz Pink Love Gin
• 1 sprig fresh mint
• pink sanding sugar optional for rim

Instructions

• Optional: Place your martini glass in freezer to chill 30 minutes before you want to serve your cocktail. If you forget, you can wrap your glasses in a wet paper towel and pop them in the freezer for half the time (this trick works with any drink you’re trying to chill).
• While your glass is chilling, take 3 to 4 leaves of mint and muddle it into your cocktail shaker. (If you don’t have a muddler, the handle of a wooden spoon will work perfectly.)
• Add ice, lemon juice, dragon fruit simple syrup and gin to shaker. Shake your cocktail shaker for 30 seconds, until your hand is freezing.
• Place pink sugar sprinkles onto a small plate. Use your lemon rind and wipe it around the rim of your martini glass and then dip and roll your glass in the pink sprinkle sugar until the rim is coated.
• Strain cocktail from shaker into your martini glass and enjoy immediately!

Notes

Dragon Fruit Syrup: If you can’t find dragon fruit syrup, any other pink/red syrup will do. I suggest strawberry syrup, raspberry syrup or even rosé syrup.

Pink Love Gin: You can use any kind of gin you prefer, but I love this Pink Love Gin because it is both fruity and floral gin, without being overpowering. It gives your cocktail a unique flavor!

Vodka: Not a gin fan? No worries! You can easily swap out the gin for vodka. I have even seen dragon fruit flavored vodka recently if you wanted to really punch up the flavor.

Make It Sparkle: Feeling festive? Add some edible glitter to your cocktail! Add it into your cocktail shaker before you shake your cocktail. It will make your martini truly shimmer in the glass!

Large Batch For Party: Prepare a large pitcher with the lemon juice, dragon fruit syrup and gin up to 2 days before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, make sure to stir up your pre-made martini mix well. Then muddle the mint in the cocktail shaker, add ice, and pour in 4 oz of the pre-made martini mix. Shake well and serve! The below amounts will make enough pink martini mix for 12 Martinis: 

• 12 oz lemon juice 
• 12 oz dragon fruit syrup
• 24 oz gin

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 214kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 54mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 44IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg

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