The Happiest Hour {Spiked Apple Cider}

There are few things that make me happier in the fall than a glass full of warm bourbon spiked apple cider on a cool day. Combine that with a trip to the pumpkin patch and I may actually be in fall decorated Heaven. The combination of spices with the sweetness of the cider and the burn of the bourbon is quite perfect. My college roommate always made the most delicious cider when we were in school. We would drink by the gallon and everyone we knew was asking for a glass. But now that she has moved away, I have had to concoct my own equally delicious libation. After sifting through numerous recipes, I think I have finally found the winner. To make it even better, it made my whole house smell of autumn goodness the entire day. Although I prefer to enjoy mine with a shot of bourbon, you don't need one to enjoy it. It is just as delicious when served virgin as it was spiked. Here's the recipe...

:: Ingredients ::
1 Gallon Apple Cider
3 Cinnamon Sticks
10 Whole Cloves
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
Bourbon to Taste

:: Directions ::
1. Bring the cider to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, add the brown sugar stirring to dissolve completely.
3. Reduce to a simmer and add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves and lemon juice. Cover and simmer for a minimum of an hour and a half. For a more intense flavor, simmer longer.
4. Add Bourbon and serve immediately.

The Happiest Hour {Peach Pear Fizz}

Sometimes you find inspiration hiding in the strangest places. Sometimes it's sitting right in front of you and you don't even know it. That's my favorite kind. When you see the same thing day in and day out and one day something clicks and it inspires you. That's how this cocktail came to be. I'm a huge fan of La Croix sparkling water. If you've never had it, I suggest you finish reading this post and head to the store to pick up a case. My flavor obsession is their peach pear. It smells amazing and is light on the flavor. After about my third can one day, I wondered why someone didn't make a peach pear cocktail. The flavor combination is a bit off the beaten path but tastes amazing. So, with peach season coming to an end, this libation makes a perfect end of summer (or beginning of fall) sipper for your next gathering.  Whether it be brunch or an afternoon cheering on your favorite team, mix up a pitcher and enjoy this fruity spritzer. Here's the recipe...

:: Ingredients ::
1.5 oz Pear Nectar
1.5 oz Peach Nectar
1 oz Peach Pear La Croix
5 oz Champagne or Sparkling White Wine
Fresh Peach and Pear slices for Garnish

:: Directions ::
Over ice, combine all ingredients. Garnish with a slice of peach and a slice of pear. Sip and enjoy!

The Happiest Hour {Hot Apple Cider}

Besides the s'mores cupcakes I showed you yesterday, I think hot apple cider may be one of my favorite fall treats. It is definitely my favorite fall cocktail. When served hot with a splash of bourbon or rum, it's sure to warm you up on a cool evening. While you can simply buy a gallon of cider from the store, I prefer to spice mine up. Here's my recipe for the perfect cup of hot apple cider!

:: Ingredients ::
1 Gallon Apple Cider
1 Orange, sliced
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
2 teaspoons Whole Cloves
1/2 teaspoon Ground Allspice
4 tablespoons Brown Sugar

:: Directions ::
1. Combine ingredients in a medium sauce pan. Over medium high heat stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Serve with a splash of bourbon or rum.

Happy Weekend!

The Happiest Hour {The Singer}

I must be honest with you. This post is a bit of a teaser. For the next issue of LPF Mag, I did an article on DIY gifts. One of the things I made, is the secret (for now) ingredient in this cocktail, but recipe I will be sharing to with the unique flavored vodka was too good to keep to myself. It's festive color will make it perfect for the holidays or any fall gathering. Not to mention, with only three ingredients, it's beyond simple to make! Here's the recipe and be sure to look out for issue 2 of LPF Mag on the how to for the secret ingredient!

:: Ingredients ::
1 part Red Zinger Vodka
2 parts Sweet & Sour Mix
1 part Club Soda

:: Directions ::
In a tall glass, combine ingredients over ice and stir. Serve with a straw and enjoy!