HOLIDAY COCKTAILS
Whether it’s around your dinner table or toasting to 2011, the holiday season comes with many cocktails. CafeMom has come up with this year’s hottest and most festive with some special help from our moms and experts!

Candy Cane Martini: Combine 1 1/2 oz. vodka with 1 tsp. peppermint schnapps, and shake with ice. Dip a martini glass into broken up candy cane pieces for a festive (and tasty) garnish.

The Grinch: Channel your inner Seuss with this Midori-based martini. Combine 2 oz. Midori, 1/2 oz. lemon juice, and 1 tsp sugar syrup. Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass, garnish with a cherry.

White Christmas: So many holiday favorites in one place! Combine 4 oz. of your favorite eggnog, 1/2 oz. white chocolate liqueur, and 1 oz. Southern Comfort in a snifter glass. Garnish with some white chocolate flakes.

Peppermint Patties: Hot cocoa and peppermint schnapps. Warm and delicious!

Snowball:– Rum mixed with white chocolate liquor. Dip the rim of the glass into chocolate syrup and then into shredded coconut. Yum!

Seasoned hostesses know that the secret to a fabulous party is great food and drinks — edibles that will keep your guests satisfied and entertained and maybe even a little impressed that you are such a whiz in the kitchen. Finger foods are one of the best choices for a party menu: They’re simple to put together, won’t break the bank, are easy to eat, and even look cute and festive. Here are a few of CafeMom’s favorite finger foods to serve at a party:

Sliders-Everyone always goes bananas over little burgers or other mini sandwiches. You can go the traditional route (ground beef, cheese, etc.) or kick it upscale using fancy ingredients like ground lamb or meatballs. For inspiration, check CafeMom’s list of 9 creative slider variations.


Pigs in a Blanket -This retro mini appetizer never ever goes out of style. The simple combo of mini hot dogs wrapped in refrigerated pastry dough gets the job done; or add gourmet ingredients like sausage and Dijon mustard.

Skewers-The best way to get fruits and veggies into your guests is to thread them on a stick. Fun combos include cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese; berries and cubed pineapple with yogurt dipping sauce; or olives and artichoke hearts.

Cupcakes –A traditional favorite with potential for lots of creative decorating. Or consider other mini desserts like cream puffs or fresh-baked cookies.

Hope you enjoyed these Last Minute Cocktail and Party Food Ideas, HAPPY HOLIDAYS!