
When you’re browsing the farmer’s market this fall, you might not be thinking of your liquor cabinet, but some of the freshest produce of fall also makes some of the tastiest cocktails. Whether you use fruits like figs, cranberries, apples and pears to flavor your liquor or add a vitamin-filled punch, your tastebuds will be thrilled with these drinks.
You can buy flavored vodka, but this usually has more sugar than plain. Instead, infuse your own vodka with pears by adding fresh fruit to about four cups of plain vodka. Seal these together in a jar for two weeks and you’ll be able to taste the natural pear flavor! Mix this vodka with pear nectar, rosemary and sparkling water for a truly festive cocktail – perfect for Thanksgiving or a cozy fall dinner party.
Of course, cranberries are a classic fall flavor. But don’t settle for cranberry juice, which is usually loaded with sugar, when you can use the real thing. Muddle fresh cranberries with sugar, two dashes of Angostura bitters, orange zest and bourbon for a distinctly fall cocktail.
Apple cider and brandy are classic pairings, and are especially festive when served hot with a cinnamon stick for stirring.