Liquid Language

Seasonal Sensations in Liquid Form

Add Scotch to your list of favorites.

This time of year is my favorite. My fondest memories of childhood revolve around football season, cool air, and shorter days. This is the kick-off to the stretch of family holiday events, which conjure up funny memories and lots of food and drink.

Since I’m a parent now it's very important to my wife and me that we start building our own traditions. When "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" airs we know that our fall festivities have begun. I love hearing other families share stories about their seasonal practices, especially ones that include drink recipes passed down through generations. Here are a few inspirations.

Dairy companies must love this time of year due to crazed fans like me that go through gallons of egg nog. There are many great recipes and these two web sites are good starting points: www.eggnogrecipe.net and www.epicurious.com. November or December wouldn't be complete without a homemade version for the adults and one for the young ones. The alcoholic versions generally contain a combination of bourbon, brandy, rum or whiskey.

There might not be a cozier comfort beverage than hot chocolate. I have my own recipe that's going on its third year. It was inspired by my first taste of Christopher Elbow chocolates. As you probably know from my articles, I'm a loyal Shatto Milk fan, so my version uses Shatto Chocolate Milk along with heavy cream, cinnamon and chili powder. It's very decadent so I usually serve 6 oz. per person. Feel free to add a marshmallow if you use this recipe.

It took maturing and living in New York City to really appreciate what we have here in the Kansas City area. We are just beginning to tap into and respect our local culinary resources. One of the local jewels that’s a must-do is the Louisburg Cider Mill. This apple heaven is just minutes south of Overland Park on Highway 69. The company produces a delicious apple cider using an early 1900's Hammermill Apple Press. There are no additives or water in the cider, just a wonderful natural taste. The cider can be purchased at the cider mill (which is worth visiting), several local grocers and online at www.louisburgcidermill.com. If you visit be sure to indulge in the additional treats such as cider doughnuts, Lost Trail Sodas and the country store.

As we get closer to Christmas, I find that nothing is stirring except for mom and dad getting into the liquor cabinet. These two cocktails will temporarily send relief from all of the economic woes. The drink I call the Santa's Workshop has a bite that will snap back at a chilly night. Always serve this drink at room temperature and the subtly sweet yet warming tones will create more spark than a fireplace. Bourbon and POM juice make a match in this recipe and it pairs well with shortbread cookies.

Fit For a King is velvety and nutty all at the same time and floats around a bed of ice cream. It's perfect for an evening spent wrapping gifts. The fun part is that if you take your time it melts in harmony and you can ditch the spoon. Enjoy your time with friends and family and create your own new drink recipes and memories.

RECIPES FOR CALLOUT:

• ¼ tsp Chili Powder
• ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 4 oz. Heavy Cream
• 15 oz. Shatto Chocolate Milk (whole)

Pour the heavy cream and milk into a saucepan over high heat. Add spices and whisk for 3-5 minutes. Bring heat to lowest setting and continue to whisk for a few minutes. Be careful not to let the milk burn. Use a ladle to scoop the hot chocolate into glassware. Keep in mind the better the spices, the better the outcome. Makes 2 to 3 servings.

• 1 oz. Frangelico
• 1 oz. Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 2 scoops of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
• Honey
• Sprinkle of Cinnamon Sugar

Shake Frangelico and Bailey's. Scoop two large spoonfuls of vanilla bean ice cream into a wide glass (rocks or old-fashioned). Lightly drizzle honey over ice cream and pour liquor over ice cream. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar mix and serve with a spoon. Makes 1 serving.