Monday, October 15, 2007

now I'm thinking about mocktails!

I've already settled this with the caterer but I have an idea that I like better!

We are serving a drink in champagne flutes throughout the reception (especially for the toast though) and at the moment it's a cran/ras sparkling punch but after my cocktail party this last Friday I'm thinking I might want something a little more unique. Still inexpensive but for sure more unique. I've got a couple ideas rolling around in my head.

Since I cut the spiced cider in leiu of Mikayla's hot cocoa table I thought this might be fun with out whole "ski chalet" kinda feel?

Egg Nog Punch

1 quart dairy eggnog (homemade or store bought)
1 pint vanilla ice cream
1 quart 7-Up

OR

Cold Spiced Sparkling Cider
2 slices seeded lemon cut into halves
4 cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
2 cups Martinell's Cider or Apple Juice
2-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
11 ounces chilled Martinelli's Sparkling Cider

Pierce each of the four lemon segments with a clove. Break cinnamon sticks in half. In a small pot, add all ingredients except the Sparkling Cider; simmer together for 5 to 10 minutes. Chill thoroughly. Pour equal amounts into four glasses, each with a cinnamon stick and lemon slice. Stir equal amounts of Sparkling Cider into each glass. Serves 4.

The other idea is a mock version of a cocktail that I LOVED on Friday night

Cherry Almond Sparkling punch

it's made with Almond extract, dark organic cherry syrup and you could top it with gingerale or something. still working on that. oh, and it had a sugar rim, I don't think my caterer would appreciate that (but it doesn't hurt to ask cause it was GORGEOUS!) but totally impractical for 300 people. with refills.

Anyone feeling creative? C'mon, you ladies rock at this stuff.

1 comments:

An Ordinary Mom said...

The Cold Spiced Sparkling Cider sounds divine.

I grew up with my Grandpa who was the master at mixing up punches for large gatherings. Too bad he doesn't live closer, I would offer his services :) !!

I also like another simple drink: Sprite, Sherbet with a little milk. It serves up nice in a punch bowl.