Hosting a holiday party? Serve punch! Making a punch saves time and is more affordable than stocking an entire bar. It's also a great way to get the party started: people can mix and mingle while they fill their glasses. A celebratory punch made with sparkling wine is especially festive. Garnish with cranberries or circles of citrus. Don't be afraid to get creative with the recipe; the one suggested here is basic. Substitute a floral liqueur like St. Germain for brandy, and use what ever kind of sparkling wine — Rosé, Cava, Prosecco, etc. — you want. For the easy technique to this simple party punch, keep reading.
Come Party With Me: Holiday Open House — Dessert
It doesn't matter what kind of party you're hosting, be it a brunch, dinner, or cocktail party, you should always offer dessert. Why? Because no soirée is complete, especially during the holidays, without a sweet finish! For a holiday open house where guests will be coming and going at different times, set out a platter of chocolate mint divinity. Divinity is a nougat-like confection that's made with egg whites, corn syrup, and sugar. With the addition of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes, this variation is a Christmasy twist on the classic divinity.
Prepare it up to three days in advance and store at room temperature. To check out the recipe, keep reading.
Come Party With Me: Holiday Open House — Menu
Don't be scared to host a holiday party. With a little planning and creativity, one can easily throw together a fabulous shindig. A holiday open house is ideal because it doesn't involve making a complete meal, and it's less formal than a cocktail party. Begin the open house in the afternoon or late evening. Offer a couple of uncomplicated but classic apps alongside store-bought nuts, olives, and charcuterie. Chicken skewers are always a hit, and they're delicious fresh from the oven or at room temperature. Puff pastry pinwheels are one of my go-to recipes during the holidays. Fill with cheese and herbs in advance, then slice and bake as needed.
Lastly serve an assembled hors d'oeuvre, like bacon wrapped apricots, which requires nothing more than a quick bake in the oven. Interested in these recommended recipes? Keep reading.