THREE CHEERS TO NEW YEAR'S!

Invite friends and family over for an evening of appetizers, bubbly and festive cocktails, perfect to ring in 2025

- CHARLES GRAYAUSKIE

Chocolate Espresso Martinis

Active time: 15 min.

Total time: 15 min.

Serves: 6

This sweet after-dinner pick-me-up is perfect for sipping by the fire

• 3 cane sugar cubes Ice cubes

• 6 oz. vanilla flavored vodka

• 3 oz. coffee liqueur

• 1½ oz. chocolate liqueur

• 6 oz. espresso or strong coffee, chilled

• Dark chocolate shavings

• Lemon wedges (optional)

1 In bowl, combine sugar cubes and 3 Tbs. hot tap water; stir until sugar is dissolved.

2 In ice-filled cocktail shaker, combine half each of vodka, liqueurs, espresso or coffee and sugar syrup. Cover; shake until well chilled, about 30 sec. Divide evenly between 3 coupe glasses. Repeat once. Sprinkle drinks with chocolate shavings. If desired, serve with lemon wedges.

Per serving: 140 cal. Og pro. 9g carb. Og fiber 8g sug. Omg chol. Omg sod. 2g total fat 1g sat. fat

Peppermint Twists

Active time: 20 min.

Total time: 20 min.

Serves: 6

Crushed candy canes plus minty schnapps make this pretty-in-pink creamy sip cool and festive

• 12 oz. vodka

• 3 Tbs. finely crushed candy cane

• ½ tsp. mint extract

• 12 oz. peppermint schnapps

• 3 cups ice cubes

• 6 oz. heavy cream

• Red liquid food coloring

• Candy canes and mint sprigs

1 In cocktail shaker, combine half each of vodka, crushed candy cane and extract; muddle until candy cane dissolves and flavors blend.