Beverage

Fudgy Hot Chocolate prepared in a glass cup beside a small Hot Chocolate Kit and several utensils on a "Love" tea towel.

Fudgy Hot Chocolate

Aunt Noni’s Christmas Fudge makes a great base for a steamy cup of Fudgy Hot Chocolate. Just add hot milk, and marshmallows if you like. You can even add a shot of espresso for an invigorating mocha flavor.

Peanut Butter Fudge Steamer in a clear glass cup

Shop Talk – Peanut Butter Fudge Latte

Where were you this time last year? A year ago I was sitting in a coffee shop in Peachtree Corners, drinking a latte from a thick ceramic cup. Comfortably seated at a small table, I worked at my computer, occasionally sitting back to take a sip. While there alone, I felt a sense of harmony with the activity around me; the barista preparing drinks, the children playing in the park outside the window, the customers coming and going. I had a pleasant afternoon, though I didn’t give it much thought at the time…

Gingerbread Smoothies in glasses with pumpkin background

Zoom Break – Gingerbread Smoothie

Later I had the question stuck in my head. What is my favorite autumn beverage? Which flavors do I look forward to in the fall? Then my mind drifted toward Gingerbread. Now I remembered a Gingerbread Smoothie I made some time ago, before Zoom calls, back in Atlanta. It was more like a Gingerbread Latte, with a deep forward note of molasses, an appealing splash of vanilla and a creamy frappé texture…

Whipped Dalgona Coffee

Instant coffee, a little sugar, hot water and cold milk. Four simple ingredients are all it takes to create this beautiful cup of Whipped Dalgona Coffee, a fun and refreshing alternative to the average Iced Latte…

Pear Ginger Shrub in a glass with straw and spoon on a vintage apron.

Pear Ginger Shrub

Pear Ginger Shrub incorporates seasonal flavors in an interesting drink mix without getting too complicated. The ginger gives this beverage a nice bite while the flavor of ripe pear adds soft sophistication. Try it with club soda over ice or experiment with a cocktail recipe of your own.

Champagne over Wild Hibiscus Flowers in Syrup makes a delicious champagne cocktail that is uniquely memorable.

The Charm of Wild Hibiscus

Embellish a glass of champagne with a single syrup-drenched wild hibiscus flower to make this Wild Hibiscus Champagne Cocktail. The subtle essence of red fruit layers the champagne with scarlet sweetness as the blossom sparkles and unfolds in response to the bubbles. 

Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream in a cup and saucer with a chocolate heart on the side

Hot Chocolate

It is a gorgeous Valentine’s Day here in Memphis! It is bright and sunny and the temperature is in the neighborhood of 60F. It is the perfect atmosphere for sunny smiles and red high heels.  Out for lunch at Houston’s it was great to see folks of all ages dressed […]

Spanish Hot Chocolate – For Sipping or Dipping

A Taste of History Following our snow day last Thursday, it got cold. Cold for Portland, that is. The roads cleared and life got back to normal but snow lingered in the back yard and the air stayed fresh and chilly. My craving for Hot Chocolate lingered too. I have […]

Frothy Spiced Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream is served in a stoneware mug.

Spiced Hot Chocolate -A Late Taste of Winter

There is nothing quite like a cup of Spiced Hot Chocolate sipped beside a warm fire. This recipe is rich and delicious while still frothy and fun. Dress it with a spoon of marshmallow crème or whipped cream sprinkled with cinnamon or chili pepper.

Radish Eyeballs in clear beverage served in a martini glass.

Cocktail Radish Eyeballs and Sakétinis

While simple to prepare, Radish Eyeballs look impressively ghoulish. From their green olive irises to their taproot optic nerves, these bloodshot eyeball appetizers are deliciously spooky. They are sure to earn a smile, or a grimace, as they garnish your favorite Halloween beverage. Or just serve them on their own. Arranged on an olive tray and drizzled with a red sauce, they’ll make a remarkably eye-catching addition to your Halloween table.

A pitcher of Lavender Lemonade and two full glasses on an antique floral cloth.

Lavender Lemonade

It is the surprise of the lavender that makes this lemonade particularly inviting. Lavender blossoms add a flavor note that is unique, and also quite refreshing. They also add an enchanting depth of color to this lovely Lavender Lemonade.