Drinks to Bring Comfort and Joy to Your Holiday Party

Now that you’ve got a bar cart, your party is half way there. Having an assortment of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages ensures every guest is happy. Nothing is easier than this recipe for Slow-Cooker Mulled Wine. It takes just 30 minutes to make and will be warm and ready to go throughout your party. 

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1 c. apple cider
• 1 c. cranberry juice
• 1/3 c. sugar
• 1 c. fresh cranberries
• 2 oranges, peels and juice
• 2 whole cinnamon sticks
• 1 tbsp. whole cloves
• 1 tbsp. star anise

Directions

Step 1

Combine wine, cider, cranberry juice, sugar, cranberries, the peel from 1 orange, the juice of 1 orange, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise in a slow cooker. Stir to combine. Cook on high until warm, about 30 minutes. 

Step 2

Serve warm and garnish each glass with a piece of orange peel.

For those not partaking in Holiday spirits but wanting to enjoy the spirt of the Holiday here is a delicious non-alcoholic drink sure to be a crowd pleaser. The Cranberry-Basil Spritzer is easy to make and is served in a carafe making it easy for guests can serve themselves.  

Ingredients

Directions 

Step 1 - Basil Syrup

Make Basil Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring water and sugar to a boil. Stir to dissolve sugar. Add basil leaves, remove pan from heat, and let steep for 20 minutes.Strain syrup and let cool for at least 1 hour.

Step 2 - Spritzer

Make Spritzer: In a large pitcher, combine syrup, unsweetened cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice. Fill pitcher with chilled club soda, then add lime slices, fresh cranberries, and basil leaves. To serve, pour spritzers over ice, top each with a splash more club soda, and garnish with basil.

These drinks are great starts to stress-free holiday party. The best part is you’ll be able to sit down and enjoy the festivities and drinks along with your friends.