Best Winter Cocktails With Vodka

 Winter may be the coldest time of year, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your love of cocktails. In fact, there are many delicious and warming winter cocktails that are perfect for enjoying on a cold night. This blog post features a collection of the best winter cocktails made with vodka, from martinis to more creative concoctions. So gather your ingredients and get ready to toast to the winter season!

This collection has something for everyone included. Be sure to click through the links to view the full recipe and to pin the recipes for later.

Sparkling Pomegranate Martini by Burrata and Bubbles

Cranberry Moscow Mule by Spoonful of Flavor

Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini by Thrifty Jinxy

Winterberry Spiced Cocktail by Served From Scratch

Pumpkin Spice Martini by The Art of Food and Wine

Easy Peppermint Schnapps Cocktail by Natural Deets

Pomegranate  Ginger Beer Cocktails by Vindulge

Apple Cider Martini by Easy Party Cocktails

Pear Tree Cocktails by Three Olives Branch

Pumpkin Spice Latte by Cocktails with Class

Sparkling Cranberry Vodka by Sugar + Soul

Dirty Martini by Splash of Taste

Vegan White Russians by Home Cooked Roots

Caramel Apple Cider Mimosa by Gastronom

Apple Pie a la Mode Cocktail by xoxo Bella

Here are some tips for making the best cocktails with vodka.

• Use fresh ingredients. This is especially important for the citrus juices and herbs that are often used in vodka cocktails. Fresh ingredients will give your cocktails a brighter flavor and make them more appealing visually.
• Chill your glasses. This will help to keep your cocktails cold and refreshing. You can chill your glasses in the refrigerator or freezer for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Use high-quality vodka. This will make a big difference in the taste of your cocktails. Look for a vodka that is made from wheat or rye, as these vodkas tend to have a cleaner flavor.
• Don't over-mix your cocktails. Over-mixing can dilute the flavor of your cocktails and make them watery. Give your cocktails a gentle stir until the ingredients are combined.
• Garnish your cocktails. Garnishes can add flavor, visual appeal, and aroma to your cocktails. Some popular garnishes for vodka cocktails include citrus slices, herbs, and edible flowers.

I would love to hear which of these recipes you want to try first. I think I would love the apple pie a la mode cocktail.

You can find some of my other favorite drink recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Hillbilly Cider Cocktails

Bomb Pop Cocktails

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: Panera Copycat

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes hold as much sway as a hearty bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. The creamy, cheesy concoction is a soothing balm for the soul, especially during the chilly months of winter. While traditional methods of preparing broccoli cheddar soup can be time-consuming, the Instant Pot offers a quick and convenient solution, allowing you to whip up this beloved dish in a fraction of the time.

The Instant Pot Advantage

The Instant Pot, is a versatile multi-cooker which has revolutionized home cooking, particularly for those seeking convenience and efficiency. Its pressure cooking function significantly reduces cooking time, making it ideal for preparing dishes that would otherwise require hours of simmering. In the case of broccoli cheddar soup, the Instant Pot can transform raw ingredients into a delectable soup in a matter of minutes.

A Symphony of Flavors

The essence of broccoli cheddar soup lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The sweetness of broccoli, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the subtle aromatics of onions and garlic come together to create a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and invigorating. The Instant Pot method preserves these delicate flavors, ensuring that every spoonful delivers a burst of culinary delight.

A Culinary Adventure

Making broccoli cheddar soup in the Instant Pot is an effortless culinary adventure. Simply sauté some onions and garlic, add chopped broccoli, vegetable broth, and your favorite seasonings, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. Once the cooking cycle is complete, you'll be greeted with a pot of perfectly cooked broccoli and fragrant broth.

A Touch of Indulgence

The final step in creating this culinary masterpiece involves the addition of cheese. Shredded cheddar cheese is the traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with different varieties, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a unique twist on flavor. The cheese melts into the soup, creating a rich and creamy texture that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

A Versatile Delight

Broccoli cheddar soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, and even a dollop of sour cream can elevate the soup experience. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight meal or a cozy indulgence on a chilly day, Instant Pot broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect solution.

So, embrace the convenience and culinary magic of the Instant Pot and embark on a journey to create this comforting classic. With its symphony of flavors, effortless preparation, and endless versatility, Instant Pot broccoli cheddar soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

1 cup of broccoli florets

1 cup of carrots, chopped

1 small  white onion, diced

1 package of cream cheese

2 cups of chicken broth

2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Chop broccoli, carrots and onions into smaller chunks and add them to the instant pot.

Add chicken broth.

Add the block of cream cheese.

Place the lid on the instant pot and seal.

Use the manual setting, and set the timer for 4 minutes.

It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.

When the timer sounds, use the quick release valve.

Remove lid, add cheddar cheese and stir.

Turn the instant pot to saute.

Allow the soup to cook for about 3 minutes, but keep an eye on it and do not let it boil!

Turn the instant pot off, serve immediately.

Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before stirring in an airtight container in the fridge.

Serves 6

I love to serve this on a cold winter day as it delivers stick to the ribs comfort in just a few minutes of time. 

While this is not an exact copy of the always popular Panera option, it is very close, and maybe even better than the original!

You might also want to try my copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe.

This copycat crumbl cinnamon toast crunch cookie recipe is perfect for dessert tonight.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches : A Classic American Comfort Food

 Grilled cheese sandwiches are the best because they are:

• Delicious. The combination of melted cheese and toasted bread is simply irresistible.
• Comforting. Grilled cheese sandwiches are the perfect comfort food. They are warm and gooey, and they always seem to make everything better.
• Easy to make. Grilled cheese sandwiches are one of the easiest things to make. All you need is some bread, cheese, and butter or mayonnaise.
• Versatile. Grilled cheese sandwiches can be customized to your liking. You can add different types of cheese, bread, or toppings.
• Affordable. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a relatively affordable meal. The ingredients are all relatively inexpensive, and you can make a large batch for a crowd.

If you are looking to upgrade your grilled cheese game here are some of my favorite recipes to try in your home kitchen.

Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese by Simply Stacie

Blueberry Grilled Cheese by Surf and Sunshine

Crab Grilled Cheese by Housewives of Frederick County

Caprese Grilled Cheese by Salt + Lavender

Shallots and White Cheddar Grilled Cheese by The Spice Train

Mushroom and Gruyere Grilled Cheese by Mission Food

Cheese and Mushroom Toasties by A Mummy Too

Mayo Grilled Cheese by Julie Blanner

If you are looking for a delicious, comforting, easy, versatile, and affordable meal, grilled cheese sandwiches are the perfect choice. So gather your ingredients and get ready to make a delicious grilled cheese sandwich today!

Here are some additional tips for making grilled cheese sandwiches:

• Use good quality ingredients. The quality of the ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of the grilled cheese sandwich.
• Use real butter or mayonnaise. Margarine will not give you the same flavor or texture.
• Cook the sandwich over medium heat. Cooking the sandwich over too high of heat will burn the bread without melting the cheese.
• Flip the sandwich only once. Flipping the sandwich multiple times will make it soggy.
• Serve immediately. Grilled cheese sandwiches are best served hot and fresh.

Want more cheesy recipes?

Brown sugar cream cheese dip

Jalapeno Popper Spread

Squash Casserole

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies

This is the best cookie recipe yet! It has juicy, sweet cherries baked into double chocolate chip cookie dough. Make these for the winter holidays like Christmas or Valentine's day. They are decadent, delicious and so easy! Let the kids help, or whip up a batch this afternoon to share with someone special.

I love everything about this recipe. It brings decadent chocolate cookie dough together with chocolate chips and juicy cherries! Drizzle chocolate over the top to set this cookie over the top!

Ingredients:

1 1⁄2 c all purpose flour

1⁄2 tsp baking soda

1⁄2 tsp baking powder

1⁄2 c sweetened condensed milk

1⁄2 c of granulated sugar

1 cup of mini chocolate chips

3⁄4 c softened butter

1⁄2 c cocoa powder

A pinch of salt

1 cup of maraschino cherries, chopped

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper, or a baking mat.

Drain the maraschino cherries and allow them to dry on a paper towel.

Slice the maraschino cherries in halves or quarters, your choice.

Mix butter and sugar until fluffy.

Add sweetened condensed milk and blend until creamy.

Add baking powder, baking soda and pinch of salt, mix until combined.

Add flour and blend until fully incorporated.

Add chocolate chips, chopped cherries and cocoa powder.

Mix for 30 seconds on medium speed until the cocoa is incorporated.

Use a cookie scoop to form balls of dough, and drop them 2” apart on the cookie sheet.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The tops should no longer look glossy.

Allow the cookies to rest on the cookie sheet for 15 minutes.

Drizzle with chocolate glaze when completely cool.

Remove and store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

This recipe makes about 18 cookies.

Chocolate Glaze

1 cup of milk chocolate chips

3 tablespoons of milk

2 cups of powdered sugar

Melt the chocolate chips over medium heat, using the double boiler method, or pop them in the

microwave for 30 second intervals, stirring frequently, until the chocolate stirs smooth.

Add the milk and stir.

Add the powdered sugar and whisk until smooth.

Drizzle over cookies and allow to cool and harden for 15 minutes.

Find more favorite cookie recipes here:

Brown Sugar Sugar Cookies

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Golden Graham Cookies

Holiday Breakfast Recipes: Start Your Day off Right

 The holidays are a time for family, friends, and good food. And what better way to start your day off right than with a delicious holiday breakfast?

Here are a few of our favorite holiday breakfast recipes:

Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole by Dish In the Kitchen

Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls by Julie’s Eats and Treats 

Easy Breakfast Bake by Where is My Spoon

Chicken Pot Pie Buns by Dancing Through the Rain

Taco Crescent Ring by Frugal Fun Times

Sausage and Egg Crescents by Viral Recipes

Ham, Cheese and Broccoli Crescents by xoxo Bella 

Jalapeno Popper Crescent Cups by Spend with Pennies

Meatball Bites by Knife and Paddles

Ham and Cheese Crescent Ring by Feast for a Fraction

Crab and Cream Cheese Cups by Centsless Meals

Gyro Pockets by 365 Days of Baking

Chicken Crescents by Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons 

Sausage and Cheese Crescent Squares by Grits and Gouda

Cream Cheese Veggie Pizza by I Heart Vegetables

These are just a few of the many delicious holiday breakfast recipes out there. So next time you're looking for a way to start your day off right, reach for one of these recipes and enjoy!

Here are some additional tips for making the perfect holiday breakfast:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh ingredients will give your breakfast a bright and flavorful taste.
• Don't be afraid to get creative. There are endless possibilities when it comes to holiday breakfasts, so have fun and experiment with different flavors and combinations.
• Garnish your breakfast with festive toppings. A little bit of garnish can go a long way in making your breakfast look and taste more festive.

With these tips in mind, you're sure to make a delicious holiday breakfast that everyone will love. Here are some additional tips for making Christmas breakfast a breeze:

• Plan ahead. The night before Christmas, take some time to gather your ingredients and prepare any necessary dishes. This will save you time in the morning and help you relax and enjoy your breakfast with your family and friends.
• Delegate tasks. If you have children, get them involved in the preparation of Christmas breakfast. This is a great way to start their day off on the right foot and teach them about the importance of family and tradition.
• Don't forget the coffee! Coffee is a must-have for any Christmas breakfast. Make sure to have plenty on hand for everyone to enjoy.

With a little planning and preparation, Christmas breakfast can be a delicious and festive way to start your holiday. So gather your family and friends, enjoy a delicious meal, and make some wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Check out these easy recipe ideas:

Unique Nachos

3 Ingredient Biscuits

Snickerdoodle Cake