This is the time of year people are getting together and having a great time–spending time getting to know each other better, and slowing down enough to appreciate the company they keep. If you are the one throwing the party, you will most definitely be expected to provide refreshments.

These days you can very easily find all sorts of flavored liquors and mixers to create your own festive cocktails. This week I want to share three classic recipes for you to try out at your holiday party: Hot buttered Rum, Egg Nog, and Minty Hot Chocolate. The recipes I am sharing with you this week are mostly for adults, but can easily be made with out liquor for those of us that don’t drink.

Please be safe and drink responsibly this holiday season. Enjoy!

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Minty Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup white sugar

5 cups whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup hot water

3 oz peppermint schnapps (Or to taste, I like Rumplemintz)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

In a sauce pan with a thick bottom, bring water up to a simmer, add cocoa powder and sugar. Cook at a simmer for 1-2 minutes or until cocoa and sugar are dissolved. Reduce heat to low and add the milk, cream and vanilla and heat thoroughly while stirring. Do not allow it to simmer. Add in your chocolate chips a few at a time, stirring constantly. Once everything is melted and smooth allow mixture to cool for about 2 minutes then add your liquor. This would be a good time to separate the non-alcoholic portions if desired. You can always adjust the amount of liquor as desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Egg Nog

Ingredients:

4 extremely fresh eggs separated (I use farm fresh eggs)
1/3 cup sugar
3 cups whole milk
3/4 cups heavy cream
3 ounces bourbon or rum
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk egg whites and 1 tablespoon of sugar until the the egg white form a stiff peak. Set aside in the refrigerator. In another mixing bowl, add the egg yolks and remaining sugar. Whisk this mixture together thoroughly then add milk, cream, vanilla, liquor, and nutmeg. Whisk prepared egg white into mixture. Store in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours. Serve chilled and garnish with fresh nutmeg.

Hot Buttered Rum

Ingredients:

4 cups water
1 stick unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup spiced or dark rum (apple cider for non-alcoholic)

Directions:

In a large thick bottomed sauce pan over medium heat, add water, sugar, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, salt, and butter. Cook until butter is melted, whisking continuously. Once the butter is melted bring mixture to a simmer and cook while whisking for about 10 minutes. You can cool this mixture and use it later at this point or stir in the rum and serve immediately.

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In case you aren’t hosting a holiday party and are looking for one to attend I have found some right here on Brown Paper Tickets.

Saturday, December 15th
Brazilian Holiday Party – Washington, DC

Saturday, December 15th
Northwest Folklife Winter Celebration – Seattle, Washington

Thursday December 20th
Holiday Blackout Party – San Diego, California

Sunday December 23rd
Twas The Night Before, The Night Before Christmas – Portland, Oregon

Friday December 28th
Blitz Holiday Party (Roast of Tony Scarpone) – Romeoville, Illinois