It is no secret I love the holiday season. One of my favorite ways to entertain during the holidays is with a gathering of family and friends for brunch. I always serve a variety of Mimosas, (my personal favorite), but I wanted to offer my guests something different. (Check out this blog for tips on how to set up a Mimosa Bar.)
A rich, decadent cocktail, the Brandy Alexander, was just what I was looking for. This cocktail was created at the Hotel Rector in New York City around the turn of the 20th Century. It was originally made with gin, but during prohibition they substituted cognac and it was so popular it is still made with cognac today. So this year, I will offer twice the cheer and serve both Mimosas and Brandy Alexanders. ~~Kay
Brandy Alexander
- 1.5 ounces Cognac (Hennessy is a good choice)
- 1 ounce Dark Creme de Cacao
- 1 ounce heavy cream
Garnish: Grated Nutmeg
Glass: Small Martini
Place all ingredients in a shaker; add ice and shake for 15 or 20 seconds. Strain into the Martini glass and grate fresh nutmeg or ground nutmeg over the top.
And, here’s a sweet treat that won’t disappoint…
Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Caramel Buttercream Frosting
- 1 box Devil’s Food cake mix (any brand will do)
- 1 1/4 cups Guinness or Stout beer
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
In a large mixing bowl add all ingredients and blend on low for 30 seconds. Turn mixer up to high and blend for 2 minutes (do not over blend, your cupcakes will be flat). Pour batter into cupcake tins lined with paper liners.
Bake at 350 degrees for 18 – 23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. This recipe makes 24 cupcakes. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely
Frosting
- 1-1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 6 tablespoons caramel sauce (jarred is fine, the kind you put on ice cream)
In a large mixing bowl cream butter adding in confectioner’s sugar slowly on low speed until combined. Add in cream, vanilla and caramel and mix on high for at least 8 minutes. Frost cooled cupcakes and enjoy. Mine are drizzled with a store bought chocolate syrup (optional).
Enjoy the holidays! ~~Lynda & Kay
Sounds delicious!