Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie is a delicious fruit smoothie recipe that is packed full of strawberry flavor. It’s great for breakfast or as an afternoon snack for the whole family.
Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie
BEVERAGES
Blueberry Coconut Shake : Dairy Free
Blueberry Coconut Shake is a dairy-free milkshake made with coconut milk ice cream & frozen blueberries. Simple frozen dessert makes eating healthy easy! This shake is seriously one of the best- you would never know it’s dairy free! So good!
Blueberry Coconut Shake
Homemade Blueberry Liqueur
Making homemade liqueurs like this Homemade Blueberry Liqueur is a simple & easy process. The final result is a smooth, mellow flavor that’s delicious & far less expensive than the store version. Plus it makes a fabulous gift!
Homemade Blueberry Liqueur
Chocolate Banana Smoothie
Thank you TruMoo and DairyPure brand milk for sponsoring this post! Start and end your day right with milk and chocolate milk!
Chocolate milk, peanut butter & bananas come together to make this Chocolate Banana Smoothie that is the perfect breakfast or snack recipe! Make one before heading out the door or as an after school treat. Either way, everyone loves this chocolate goodness!
Chocolate Banana Smoothie
Hazelnut Caramel Mocha
Thank you Tate+Lyle® Gourmet Beverage Syrups for sponsoring this post. Take a moment and reward yourself with café-style coffee and beverages at home with Tate+Lyle®!
If you love to re-create your favorite coffee house drinks then you are going to LOVE this recipe. It’s your favorite coffee loaded with caramel, hazelnut & chocolate flavors- YUM. Your morning coffee just got better with this BRILLIANT Hazelnut Caramel Mocha. Definitely my favorite way to start the day & it’s so easy!
Hazelnut Caramel Mocha
Salted Caramel Cream Cola {$100 Target GiftCards™ Giveaway}
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser, Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc. All opinions are my own. #BrighTENtheSeason
This Salted Caramel Cream Cola is a twist on the classic polar bear recipe. RC Ten®, salted caramel simple syrup & heavy cream makes the perfect fall drink.
SALTED CARAMEL CREAM COLA
Frosted Sugar Cookie Liquor
This Frosted Sugar Cookie Liquor is made with Frosted Sugar Cookie coffee creamer, white chocolate & white rum. Makes for a delicious homemade holiday gift.
I like making something special for gift-giving during the holidays. Last year for our gifts to the neighbors, I gave them a jar of our pepper jelly along with the crackers & cream cheese we like to have with it.
It’s a family tradition to have that on Christmas. I think it’s very personal to share something like that with others you care about, which is why I chose that.
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Salty Devil
This delicious Salty Devil is made with cola, Devil’s Cut Whiskey & salted caramel syrup. Makes the perfect hard fall beverage to serve this holiday season.
Salty Devil
Halloween Sangria {Halloween Party Ideas}
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Casillero del Diablo Wines for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.
Looking for some fun adult Halloween party ideas? This Halloween Sangria is the perfect drink to serve in place of punch. It’s dark, spooky & delicious.
Halloween Party Ideas
Pineapple Cooler
This Pineapple Cooler is the perfect beverage for those tropical drink cravings. Creamy pineapple whip up into this slushy goodness- it’s divine!
It’s no secret, I love all things tropical. Pineapple & coconut are my “go-to” flavors. I literally can’t get enough. So it’s no surprise that I have been making a pitcher of these pineapple coolers all summer long. The great taste of pineapple whipped with some creamy goodness & ice makes for a delicious cool down.
I was in tropical heaven with each & every sip. I did make sure to share with the kids. They LOVE it. In fact, it’s time to whip up some more for the week & they have not forgotten to remind me.
It’s so incredibly good. A few times I added coconut milk instead of half & half – made for a great virgin pina colada twist every once in a while. DELICIOUS! Definitely my all time favorite drink.
Pineapple Cooler
Ingredients
- 2 cups chunked pineapple
- 2-½ cups ice
- ½ cup half & half
- ¼ cup confectioners sugar
- Additional pineapple chunks for garnish opt
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in blender & blend on high speed for at least 90-120 seconds or until all ice is crushed & mixture is like a slushie.
- Garnish with additional pineapple chunk if desired
- Enjoy immediately.
Looking for more great drink recipes?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Easy Frozen Strawberry Lemonade
This Easy Frozen Strawberry Lemonade is just the cool down you need right now! With sweet strawberries & crisp lemonade, it’s the perfectly frosty treat for your summer.
What is it about a tall refreshing lemonade that just screams summer? Sometimes I like it by itself & other times it’s great to add some other yummy flavors to it. We are having record heat here in North Idaho (I think we brought a little Death Valley up here with us because we have not had a “normal” year since we moved here) so I wanted to take my usual beverages to a whole new level of cool & refreshing. So I came up with this frozen version of our favorite strawberry lemonade that is out of this world!
I love that it’s not only a refreshment, but in it’s frozen state – feels like a treat too. I’m always up for a treat! How about you?
Frozen Strawberry Lemonade
Ingredients
- 8 ounces lemonade
- 1 cup whole frozen strawberries
- 2 cups ice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in your blender & blend on high for several minutes
- Once slushy it's ready to serve.
- Garnish with lemon wheel if desired
That’s it! Easy right? You will love serving this all summer long. Enjoy!!
Looking for more great drink recipes?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Pomegranate Hard Iced Tea
Boozy Pomegranate Lemonade
This post was sponsored by Heaven Hill Distilleries Heaven Hill Family of Brands. Bardstown, KY © 2015
Boozy Pomegranate Lemonade is the perfect summertime refreshment. Ice cold lemonade, vodka & pomegranate liqueur make for a delicious way to cool down.
Do you like pomegranate? I sure do. I’m always looking for new ways to add a pomegranate twist to my favorite recipes, especially when it comes to my summer entertaining. It’s a great flavor twist when I’m mixing drinks for our friends during backyard bbq’s & parties with the neighbors. So I was playing with some new beverage recipes to serve at an upcoming summer evening party we are planning when I came up with this absolutely delicious Boozy Pomegranate Lemonade. Oh my goodness it was good. I can’t wait to share it with all our friends here soon.
It’s light & refreshing like lemonade usually is, but with that great hint of pomegranate & a little kick too. Perfect for sipping out on the back porch in the warm summer evenings.
Right now PAMA is running a summer contest.
Winners will receive the chance to make their summer party come to life, with some help from PAMA. There will be one grand prize winner and four runners up. The prizes include:
Grand Prize Winner: $500 gift card and PAMA party kit to throw a summer party
Runners Up: $250 gift card and PAMA party kit to throw a summer party
I know I could host a spectacular party with a prize package like that! How about you?
Visit PAMA Liqueur for details on how to enter!
Boozy Pomegranate Lemonade
Ingredients
- 4 oz lemon lime soda
- 1-1/2 oz lemonade
- 1 oz pomegranate liqueur
- 1 oz vodka
- lemon wheel
- ice
Instructions
- Fill rocks glass with ice
- Fill shaker with ice
- Add lemonade, pomegranate liquor & vodka to shaker & shake vigorously for about 30 seconds
- Strain into prepared glass
- Fill remaining with lemon lime soda
- Garnish with lemon wheel
- Enjoy
So what beverage recipe would you twist with PAMA Liqueur?
Stay tuned – I’ll be sharing more about our backyard BBQ soon.
PAMA Celebrate Summer Contest. NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Starts on 6/22/15 at 12:00:00 p.m. ET and ends on 7/20/15 at 11:59:59 a.m. ET. Open to legal residents of 50 United States and D.C., who are at least 21 years of age and older. Void where prohibited. For complete Official Rules, visit PAMALiqueur.com/CelebrateSummer. Sponsor: Heaven Hill Brands, 1064 Loretto Rd., Bardstown, KY 40004
Looking for more great summertime beverages for your party?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Twisted Frozen Cosmo
This Twisted Frozen Cosmo is a great variation of the classic cosmopolitan cocktail. Using Everclear® in place of high proof vodka & adding some homemade cranberry liquor makes for a Cosmopolitan like you have never had before!
I absolutely LOVE taking classics & really changing them up with twists that are outside the box. It’s really what I do best. Because when you have something that’s already a favorite – it makes it so easy to change a couple things & really take it to a whole new level. I was wanting something refreshing, classy & pretty too & I was also wanting to use my martini glasses because they are just so much fun. I started thinking about what I could make & decided on a cosmo. So when I took a look at the classic cosmopolitan cocktail (which I have never shared here before) I knew I could make it even better with just a few small changes. One thing was for sure – aside from some key ingredient changes, I knew I wanted to make this one frozen for a refreshing way to relax in the heat of the summer.
I looked through my bar & thought that using Everclear® in place of high proof vodka would really give this cocktail the twist I was looking for. I also thought that adding some homemade cranberry liquor made with Everclear® would make a great addition & really kick up the cranberry flavor.
It turned out just as I imagined. Fresh & pretty with the perfect blend of flavors. Perfect for a sunny, late afternoon cool down.
So tell me, what would you make with Everclear®?
Be sure to check out Make It Your Own by Everclear® for more info, recipes & inspiration!
Twisted Frozen Cosmo
Ingredients
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1- 1.5 oz Everclear® depending on the proof in your area
- 0.5 homemade cranberry liquor- using Everclear®
- 3/4 oz triple sec
- 1 cup ice
- lime twist for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the lime twist in a high powered blender & blend on high until it forms a slush
- Serve in a martini glass garnished with twist of lime
- Enjoy!
Here are more great recipes to use with Everclear®!
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Everclear® is the perfect ingredient for craft cocktails and home mixology, allowing you to put your own spin on new and old favorites. With its neutral grain composition, Everclear® extracts the optimal flavor to infuse your cocktails — whether you’re making bitters, liqueurs, tinctures or extracts. Visit makeityourown.com for recipe ideas, tips and more!
“This post was brought to you by Everclear®, the “original” grain alcohol, and Luxco. I received compensation to write this post. The opinions and text are all mine.
Planning a White Wine Party
This post brought to you by Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards. The content and opinions expressed below are that of Kleinworth & Co..
It’s that time of year when it’s great to host some friends for a relaxing backyard gathering. Have you ever hosted a wine party? This summer we plan on gathering in our backyard, serving some great food & enjoying some delicious dessert & Sauvignon Blanc in the warmth of the evening. If you are Planning a White Wine Party, here’s some tips to help you make your party a success. From how much you need to what to pair, it’s all here.
So to start – who should you invite?
Invite friends and even new acquaintances. You can use the party to engage in great conversations surrounding wine, including history, cuisine and travel.
How many to invite & how much to serve?
How many people you invite is entirely up to you. However I like to keep it more intimate & invite just a few couples over. That way it keeps the cost down for both wine & food and it allows for more engaging conversation. Plan on serving 2-3 ounces of each wine per guest, one bottle will serve 8-10 guests.
Wines
Be sure to bring your wine to proper temperature before the party so it’s ready to go. (for whites it’s 55 degrees) Also, be sure to have a few extra bottles on hand so your guest can leave with a bottle of their favorite flavor of the evening.
Since white wine pairs so well with citrus &fruit, here are some of my favorite recipes I plan on sharing.
[metaslider id=28138]
So what wines do I suggest you serve?
Sonoma-Cutrer – known for their world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Wines – are introducing an exclusive Winemaker’s Release: Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Blanc is a uniquely special release. This small production offering represents the first-time Sonoma-Cutrer has created a wine outside of the two varietals for which we are known – Chardonnay and Pinot Noir!
This Sauvignon Blanc is classic Russian River Valley. It is crafted in a bright and vibrant style that showcases aromas of passion fruit, lychee, lime and white peach. The palate is sleek and crisp with tropical flavors of guava and passion fruit that mingle with citrus notes of grapefruit and lime! For a bright and clean, citrus laced finish!
Sonoma-Cutrer has been producing the finest quality wines since it opened as a vineyard company in 1973. Its foundation is built in the hillsides and rocky foothills in the region recognized as the Sonoma Coast Appellation – this region experiences long, even growing seasons thanks to the cool, foggy coastal climate. In the 70’s, the company planted several different grape varieties and virtually overnight Sonoma-Cutrer’s Chardonnay grapes had gained a reputation for exceptional quality and were in high demand by many premium wineries.
Did you know that Sonoma-Cutrer has a wine club that offers exclusive wines and 3 shipments/year to members.
Join today and find some of your own new favorite wines.
They also have a Winery Tour and tasting in Sonoma. How exciting is that??
Find out more about Sonoma -Cutrer on Sonoma-Cutrer Facebook , @SonomaCutrer & Sonoma-Cutrer Instagram
So there you go. I hope this helps you plan an amazing white wine party!
Be sure to check back in with me in a couple weeks to see how the party went! I’m so excited!
Cheers!
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Sparkling Blueberry Sangria Mocktail
Sometimes on a hot summer day you just want a refreshing drink without the buzz. This Sparkling Blueberry Sangria Mocktail is a great non-alcoholic beverage idea packed full of gorgeous fruit in a tasty blueberry juice & a little added fizz. It’s so delicious & enjoyable for the whole family.
I just love the colors of all the things that go into a sangria recipe. This one is packed with grapes, apples, lemons & limes. Gorgeous fruits in a beautiful drink. But I really like the mocktail version so everyone can enjoy it. It’s no fun if some are left out – and it’s so easy to make this one. Besides – the cocktail version of this isn’t exactly hydrating. But this, this one is perfect for sipping by the poolside.
I like to make a huge pitcher when I get up in the morning & let it sit in the fridge while we plan out our day. By the time we are ready to hit the pool it’s ready to go. Add some to a frozen mug while you relax in your floatie & it makes it even better.
Sparkling Blueberry Sangria Mocktail
Ingredients
- 1 bottle blueberry juice 32 oz.
- 1 lemon sliced into rounds
- 1 lime sliced into rounds
- 1 large green apple sliced into wedges- seeds removed
- 1 cup green grapes
- 16 ounces ginger ale
Instructions
- Add all the fruit to a large pitcher & top with the blueberry juice
- Place in refrigerator & chill at least 2 -6 hours
- Just before serving add ginger ale
- Garnish with some of the fruit from the pitcher when serving
How about more great mocktail recipes?
What’s your favorite refreshment on hot summer days?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Iced Coffee Protein Shake
Looking for a few moments to yourself? With the rush of life it can be hard to carve out just 10 minutes of peace each day. But today I’m sharing with you one of my favorite ways to start my day with just 10 minutes before the rest of the house awakens. I make this Iced Coffee Protein Shake, made with delicious mocha iced coffee, frozen bananas & protein powder. A great way to start the day.
Moments to myself won’t happen unless I make them happen, which is why I love the simplicity of this shake. I can pack in breakfast along with my morning pick-me-up. It whips together in the blender in about 30 seconds, which leave me about 9.5 minutes to have some quiet all to myself. It’s not long after that the rest of the family starts emerging from their rooms.
In the summer months when the sun is up around 4:30 – I grab my shake in my travel mug & head out to the porch to enjoy the early morning. I love the warmth of the early morning sun for a few minutes to help get me ready for my day before I head up to the studio.
Iced Coffee Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups International Delight Mocha Iced Coffee
- 1 small frozen banana
- 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in blender & blend on high for 30 seconds
- Enjoy!
How do you like your iced coffee??
Find out more about International Delight & sign up for their newsletter.
Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & Pinterest.
Looking for more great recipes with International Delight?
Chocolate Almond Cake Mix Bars
Caramel Macchiato Pudding Pops
This conversation is sponsored by International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Blackberry Fauxjito : Mocktail Monday
This Blackberry Fauxjito is a refreshing non-alcoholic version of the oh so popular mojito. Blackberries, honey & mint make for a tasty mixed mocktail.
Here we are – Mocktail Monday again. This will be the last in the series (for now). I have some fun new ideas I want to bring to you through the summer & there are only so many days in a week to fit it all in. I will still bring you mocktails & of course mix in some regular cocktail recipes too for all of you who have been missing those with this non-alcoholic series. But all those great beverage recipes will be sprinkled throughout until fall.
Since I am bringing the actual series to a close I thought I would end with a non-alcoholic version of the very popular mojito. I have not shared a fauxjito with you in quite a long while & this one seemed like the perfect one this time. Blackberries are the all time favorite in this house & it’s that time of year to enjoy!!
Blackberry Fauxjito : Mocktail Monday
Ingredients
- *Per glass
- 3 blackberries
- 3 mint leaves
- 2 lime wedges
- 1/2 tbsp raw honey
- 4 ounces 7-Up or other lemon lime soda
- Ice
Instructions
- In a low ball glass combine blackberries, mint, lime & honey & muddle until fully mashed & it's a thick dark liquid
- Fill the glass with ice
- Top with 7-Up
- Gently stir with a spoon but not too much- you want that ombre look (dark on bottom & gradually lighter to the top)
- Garnish with mint sprig (& additional blackberries/lime if desired)
- Enjoy
Looking for more from our Mocktail Monday series?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Mint Julep Mocktail : Mocktail Monday
Today Mocktail Monday brings you this easy non-alcoholic version of your favorite Mint Julep cocktail. I’m doing my best to whittle down all the fabulous cocktail recipes out there & working on mocktail versions of them to share here. The hub’s old bartender recipe box is enough to keep me busy that’s for sure. But given the spring like temps & my mind is already in summer mode – I had to make this Mint Julep Mocktail for you all. It will certainly keep you cool & refreshed through the hot months. I’m so drawn to that gorgeous color, the crisp hint of mint & the fact that it’s a mocktail means I can not only have it any time of day – but I can also share with the kiddos if I so choose. Let me show you just how easy it is to make.
Now – I always keep a jar of my simple lemon syrup on hand in the fridge for those moments when I just need a hint of sweet lemon flavor added to my recipes. I strongly encourage you to do the same. It’s great with so many things.
Mint Julep Mocktail : Mocktail Monday
Ingredients
- *Makes 2 low ball glasses
- 2 ounces simple syrup
- 1 ounce lemon juice (or you can make my Simple Lemon Syrup
- 2 sprigs fresh mint + more for garnish
- 8 ounces ginger ale
Instructions
- Pour lemon simple syrup (or lemon juice & simple syrup) in a small glass with the mint sprigs & muddle well
- Refrigerate this muddled mint mixture for 30-60 minutes to infuse the mint flavor into the syrup
- Fill low ball glass with ice
- Pour 1.5 ounces of your mint/lemon mixture into each glass
- Top with ginger ale to fill
- Garnish with additional mint
- *Note- you can strain out the larger pieces of mint when pouring into your glasses - I liked the tiny pieces of green color in my drink - so I wasn't too careful about getting it all out.
You will want this by your side as the temps climb!
What’s your favorite way to cool off?
Did you catch some of the other moctail recipes we are doing here for Mocktail Monday?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Sparkling Black Cherry Limeade
*Disclosure: I have partnered with DASANI to bring you this recipe. I have been compensated for this post either monetarily or with product. All opinions are truthful & my own.
A couple years ago we made the move to relocate the family to North Idaho. You see – the hubs & I are both So Cal natives. I lived there my entire life there until I met him. He was born there & then lived most of his life in Tahoe before we met. Then we had 12 long years in the desert of Nevada before being given the opportunity to live in this incredible place we do now. Why am I telling you this? Well – because after all those years living with summers that lasted 8-10 months – hydration became key. Finding new & creative ways to enjoy water & hydrating beverages was a way of life. It definitely stuck with me even though we have true seasons here. I still look for tasty ways to nourish & this Sparkling Black Cherry Limeade is probably the best tasting & easiest bevies I have made thus far.
I started with these great flavors from DASANI.
Did you know they have sparkling waters in flavors like lime, berry & lemon? Lightly carbonated, unsweetened & ZERO calories!
Then there are the YUMMY flavor enhancing drops!!!
I can keep them in my purse & use them in my regular bottled water while we are out running errands or at the gym.
The family loves using them to come up with their own great flavor combos to keep hydrating fun!
When you can add a little flavor to the water & still keep it light & refreshing – they are more likely to drink more.
Cherry limeade is my “go-to” favorite beverage flavor. So knowing that I can create this so simply when I’m craving that flavor just makes me happy. When I’m looking for hydration I don’t want anything heavy or overly sweet. This definitely makes it easy to drink, drink, drink.
I learned that drinking from a large cup (like the reusable cups with a lid & straw) are the easiest for me to keep track of how much fluid I’m taking in each day. I try to have at least a 24 ounce cup – the larger it is the more likely I am to keep drinking. Something about coming to the bottom of the cup signals in my head that I’m done. So if it takes longer to empty the cup – the longer I will drink before taking a break for a couple hours.
You can pick up DASANI products at your local Target, using Target’s Cartwheel app.
*For a limited time, coupons will be available for both DASANI DROPS Infusions and DASANI Sparkling in Black Cherry (w/in the app)
Sparkling Black Cherry Limeade
Ingredients
- 1 can DASANI Sparkling Black Cherry sparkling water
- 1 tbsp DASANI Drops Infusions flavor enhancer lime
Instructions
- Pour the black cherry sparkling water over ice
- Add flavor enhancer drops & stir
- Enjoy!!! Just that simple.
Want more refreshing recipes
Raspberry-Pineapple Frozen Fruit Pops
Banana Blueberry Smoothie Pops
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Blackberry Vanilla Mocktail : Mocktail Monday
Oh I’m so excited for the season change. Once those taxes are done & the weather is more consistent with the sunshine & warm temps I can’t help but to be HAPPY! I love making cool drinks, getting our grill on & spending the weekends gardening & working on the house. Making (& sharing) beverages here with you is probably my favorite thing to do. If I learned anything living in the desert for all those years – is that staying hydrated is so vitally important – but it doesn’t have to be boring. While we lived there I definitely filled my drink recipe box with all sorts of bevies to share with you all. So I decided to start a Mocktail Monday series here so I could start sharing some of them with you all. This way you will always have something new to try each week through these warmer months!! I’m kicking it off today with this Blackberry Vanilla Mocktail!
Blackberry Vanilla Mocktail is a sweet & sour blackberry drink with lemon, honey & a little fizz!
Blackberry Vanilla Mocktail : Mocktail Monday
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup blackberries
- 1 ounce lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tbsp raw honey
- 1 can ginger ale
Instructions
- Combine blackberries, lemon juice, vanilla & honey with a splash of ginger ale in shaker & muddle
- Pour through a strainer into your glasses filled with ice
- Fill remainder of glass with ginger ale
- You can garnish with additional blackberries or lemon wedge if you like
Looking for more great bevies to cool you down? (note – not all of these below are mocktails)
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Coconut Lime Spritzer : Essential Oils Lime
You probably figured out that I love to share great drink recipes here. As the days get warmer staying hydrated is so important. A great way to do that is with low calorie flavored beverages. Personally I love clean, refreshing water all by itself. I drink that 99% of the time. But when I am looking for something to serve guests it’s nice to offer something new & exciting. So I came up with this Coconut Lime Spritzer that is so perfect for that. It’s refreshing, low calorie & incredibly simple to make using my Essential Oils.
Last month I joined some of my fellow bloggers to bring you great recipes that you can make with Lemon Essential Oils. This month we are sharing some AWESOME recipes for Lime Essential Oils that you don’t want to miss! Be sure to scroll down to see what everyone else is sharing today!
Coconut Lime Spritzer : Essential Oils Lime
Ingredients
- 1 can 12 ounces Coconut Flavored Sparkling Water
- 1-2 drops Lime Essential Oil
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill highball glass with ice
- Fill with your sparkling water
- Add your essential oil
- Stir - enjoy!
- **Not all essential oils are edible. Due to lack of purity, 98% of essential oils sold should NOT be ingested. An edible essential oil will be labeled “therapeutic-grade” and have a “Supplement Facts” box on the label showing the nutritional value – do NOT use just any brand of essential oil for cooking/flavoring foods. Be sure to use pure oils from reliable sources, not synthetic scents or flavorings.
***Not all essential oils are edible. Due to lack of purity, 98% of essential oils sold should NOT be ingested. An edible essential oil will be labeled “therapeutic-grade” and have a “Supplement Facts” box on the label showing the nutritional value – do NOT use just any brand of essential oil for cooking/flavoring foods. Be sure to use pure oils from reliable sources, not synthetic scents or flavorings.
Interested in buying Essential Oils? I have a great FAQ page here that will answer your questions and give you all the info you need to order your own set!
Check out all these great uses for Essential Oils- Lime
Coconut Lime Spritzer // Blackberry Lime Margaritas // Strawberry Limeade
Cherry Lime Chia Energy Bars // Strawberry Margarita Cheesecake // Creamy Lime Pie Bites
Margarita Crepe Cake //Edible Watermelon Bowl // Margarita Cookies
Southwestern Black Bean & Corn Salad // Lime Cheesecake Shooters
Looking for more great ideas for using Essential Oils? Last month we shared Lemon recipes!
Lemon Infused Sugar
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Irish Cream Chai Tea Latte
As many of you know my husband just had surgery & then some complications to that surgery that had us in the hospital for 8 long days. That was hectic trying to keep school & work going while being at the hospital 6-8 hours a day. Now that he’s home recovering it’s a little better. But being on a schedule of managing pain & needs every 2-4 hours has me really needing some relaxation time. So when I can finally break away from the office in the evenings I like to get him comfortable with me on the couch & relax with this Irish Cream Chai Tea Latte. It’s the perfect way to wind down the stress of the day.
I used my homemade Irish Cream which made it all the more fabulous.
Having International Delight Chai Tea latte makes this recipe super easy.
Lately these long days have me spent before I’m even thinking about dinner. So I really welcome the moments when I can pour a drink, curl up on the couch & just chill for a while. No jumping up to fix this or that, no running out the door to pick someone up from somewhere. Just quiet, just relaxing before heading to bed for some much needed rest. So enjoyable.
Irish Cream Chai Tea Latte
Ingredients
- 2 oz Irish Cream
- 0.5 ounce vodka
- 4-5 ounces Chai Tea Latte
Instructions
- Fill rocks glass with ice
- Add in Irish cream & vodka
- Fill rest of the glass with Chai Tea Latte
- enjoy!
Where would you go to sit and relax with your International Delight Chai Tea Latte?
Be sure to sign up for International Delight Newsletter to grab coupons & more great perks!
How about some more great drink recipes?
Creamy Watermelon Lime Chiller
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.
Irish Buck
It wouldn’t be March if I didn’t share at least one Irish whiskey cocktail recipe with you all. Were you wondering when I would finally get around to it? Whiskey is so popular right now – I just had to add one more cocktail to my whiskey list here. I think you will really love this one. It’s the classic Irish Buck. Something about whiskey & sour like lime or lemon. It pairs so well together. I love this drink – perfect for St. Patrick’s Day!
I love this drink because of the addition of ginger ale. It’s one of my favorite drinks- always has been since I was a little girl flying all over the world visiting family all the time. It was my drink of choice. So now I can add a couple more things to it – lime & whiskey- to make it a little more grown up but without losing my favorite drink.
Irish Buck
Ingredients
- **Per glass
- 1.5 ounces Irish whiskey
- .25 ounce fresh lime juice
- 2 ounces ginger ale
Instructions
- Fill Collins glass with ice or small whiskey balls
- add in ingredients & slightly stir
- Optional garnish with lime
How about some more great whiskey cocktails?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Skinny Iced Mocha
Since it’s almost January I thought I would get a jump start on cutting the calories on some of my favorite foods & beverages that I enjoy. I have mentioned before that I like everything in moderation. It works well most of the time. But I always like to see just how close I can get a recipe to the original while shaving off some of the added calories that sometimes aren’t really necessary. Now there are certain things that should never be messed with. But then there are others that are not a NEED to begin with – like my afternoon iced mocha. I like having it – but I don’t like the added calories in my daily intake for something that is just a “nice thing to have”. So I created this Skinny Iced Mocha which is about 50 calories. Not too bad. If I have been good & not indulged on ice cream the night before with the hubs- then I have a little room to accommodate & enjoy.
It doesn’t taste like a “skinny” that’s for sure. The bittersweet mocha sauce is fabulous.
Skinny Iced Mocha
Ingredients
- **Per Glass
- 7 oz non-fat milk
- 1 oz espresso - room temperature
- 1 tbsp Bittersweet Chocolate Mocha Sauce
- ice
Instructions
- Pack glass full of ice
- Add milk, then espresso, then mocha sauce
- Stir & serve immediately.
Want more “skinny” recipes?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Simple Green Smoothie
Have you had enough treats for the season? Are you thinking about what you can do to get back on a better track this New Year? You are in luck. Today I’m going to share with you my “go-to” breakfast recipe that always makes me feel great. This Simple Green Smoothie is just the thing I love to have when I feel I have been overdoing it with all the yummies I share here with you all. I’m a firm believer in an “everything in moderation” approach when it comes to food. So I don’t deprive myself of treats nor do I go heavy on any one thing – be it healthy or not so healthy. So I like to enjoy a healthy little smoothie that keeps me full all day long. Then I don’t feel so bad when I have a nibble of something I created earlier in the day. I have to taste test what I share with you all here – so this green smoothie helps keep me full of the good stuff so I’m not tempted to over-do it.
I love it’s ease when it comes to making it.
With just 3 simple ingredients – I have everything I need on hand most of the time.
Simple Green Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 medium banana
- 8 ounces milk
- 1 scoop 2 tbsp Garden of Life Perfect Food RAW Organic Powder
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in blender & blend on high 30-60 seconds
- Enjoy immediately
- You could also add 1 cup of ice if you want this thicker- like a milkshake.
Want more great smoothie recipes?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Bloody Mary
Well – did you have a wonderful Christmas? I sure hope so. Now to think about New Year’s. Or maybe you over did it a little yesterday?! I have just the thing to either make you feel better today – or a little recipe to keep on hand for New Year’s Day. This Bloody Mary recipe is the perfect thing. When my hubs would tend bar he told me that this is the “go-to” beverage for those trying to cure that hangover. I’m going to take his word for it as I have never tried this remedy myself. But this spicy Bloody Mary ought to help your ails.
I just love the medley of colors. Isn’t it so alluring – all those wonderful oranges, yellows & greens. This would also be great come summer – what do you think? Do you like to have a Bloody Mary in the summer? Maybe while sitting by the water.
This recipe makes enough for 2 glasses – so you & a friend can sip together.
Bloody Mary
Ingredients
- *Makes 2 glasses
- 10 ounces tomato juice
- juice from 1/2 fresh lemon
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1-1/2 tsp horseradish
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp ground pepper
- 1/4 tsp Tobasco sauce
- Unflavored vodka to taste
- Lemon wedge celery stalk, green olive for garnish
- Sprinkle chili powder for garnish
- Ice ball
Instructions
- Combine tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, garlic, pepper & Tobasco in a container with a tight fitting lid. I used a mason jar.
- Tighten lid & & shake vigorously.
- Place ice ball & celery in rocks glass & set aside
- In shaker filled with ice - combine 3 parts Bloody Mary mix with 1 part Vodka - shake well
- Strain into prepared glasses
- Garnish with a lemon wedge & green olive on toothpick & sprinkle with a little chili powder
Want more cocktail recipes?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Gingerbread White Russian
So what do you do after the kids go to sleep on Christmas Eve? I have mentioned before that I am usually in our room (& have been all night) wrapping gifts until the kids wake the next morning. Not this year. I finally started ahead of schedule & didn’t wait to wrap. So this year I plan on taking Christmas Eve to sit & relax with the hubs a little. Maybe we will make a couple of these Gingerbread White Russian cocktails to have before bed. It’s the perfect little Christmas drink with all that wonderful gingerbread flavor. Add some of those cookies we will leave out. Much better than a glass of milk to go with cookies. Perfection I tell you.
Really – I’m so looking forward to setting out the gifts & stockings, curling up on the couch with the hubs & enjoying this with some Christmas sugar cookies. It’s the perfect holiday flavors all in one night.
Gingerbread White Russian
Ingredients
- **2- servings
- 4 ounces whole milk
- 4 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces homemade Kahlua
- 3 tsp molasses
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- cinnamon/sugar mixture for rimming the glasses
- ice ball
Instructions
- Pour a little cinnamon/sugar mixture on shallow plate
- Wet rim of glasses & dip rim in cinnamon & sugar.
- Add ice ball to glasses -or fill with ice
- In an ice filled cocktail shaker - combine milk, vodka & Kahlua & shake
- Add molasses & ginger - shake again
- Strain into prepared glasses
- Enjoy
Want more great holiday beverages?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail
Oh tis’ the season for entertaining. Seems like now more than ever the parties are happening nearly every night. I know we can’t keep up with all the festivities this time of year. I’m actually trying to scale back the things that end up on the calendar for the sake of our sanity. Maybe next year we will host a party – maybe. But I’m sure you all are hosting all sorts of gatherings so that means you could probably use some new drink ideas to serve all your friends & family. So I had to share with you this fabulous Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail. It’s the perfect holiday drink- cranberry, a little fizz & then the ever so popular whiskey. You can’t go wrong.
If we were hosting a party this year – this would be the drink on special for sure. It’s ALL HOLIDAY.
You can serve it on the rocks if you like – however I prefer the Whiskey Ball
Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail
Ingredients
- **Per glass
- 1 ounce Crown Royal Whiskey
- 1 ounce ginger ale
- 1 ounce cranberry juice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in rocks glass over Whiskey Ball
- Garnish with cranberries
Looking for more holiday drink ideas?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Candy Cane Vodka
Happy December all!!! I’m in gift making mode around here. We had a great holiday weekend. When the hubs is home that doesn’t mean down time. We are usually busy working on projects for the house or he’s helping me work. I have been SO BUSY with my one client & helping her get all her images ready for her store’s relaunch – I’m working round the clock these days to keep up. I’m also employing the help of everyone in the house so I can keep it together. So since time is tight – I came up with this SIMPLE & tasty little gift of Candy Cane Vodka you can put together quick.
With just 2 simple ingredients & some adorable bottles – it makes the cutest gift.
Just pour it in, add your candy canes & store away for a short time. Then it’s ready for giving! (or enjoying for yourself)
I think homemade liquors are great as gifts. It’s more special than just picking up something at the corner store & tastes better too.
Candy Cane Vodka
Ingredients
- 8-10 ounces vodka
- 1-2 full size candy canes
Instructions
- Pour vodka into a mason jar
- Add candy canes
- Close lid & let sit about 1 week for the candy canes to completely dissolve.
- Give it a good shake prior to use
- Transfer to gift bottles if desired.
Want more homemade liquors?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Champagne Punch
Looking for a last minute bevie to serve your guests tomorrow? How about a super easy drink to serve at all your holiday gatherings? I have the thing for you & you can serve it through New Year’s. It’s nice to have a punch bowl sitting out for guest to serve themselves instead of having to play bartender all day long. Just have a little cooler of ice next to the table so they can pack their glass & you are free to enjoy your own festivities. This Champagne Punch takes just a couple minutes to prepare, is super pretty when served & adds a touch of sophistication to your gathering.
If you are wondering about the ice ball – It’s FABULOUS. I picked up the smaller version to start. You see – the size & shape of your ice has a huge impact on the taste of your beverage. The larger the ice- the more surface area touching the beverage – making it colder & giving it better flavor. Larger ice also melts slower – so your beverage won’t become watered down before it’s gone. LOVE these. You can pick up this Ice Ball Maker Moldfor this size ball. Or you can pick up Whiskey Ballfor a larger size.
So anyhow- look how gorgeous this drink is!! I think it’s the perfect addition to any party.
Champagne Punch
Ingredients
- 1 750ml bottle dry champagne
- 3 cups cold ginger ale
- 1 ounce triple sec
- cranberries
- ice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except ice in large punch bowl
- Stir to combine
- Serve in lightly packed rocks glass - cocktail style
Looking for more holiday beverage ideas?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
Sour Pom-Cider {Cocktail & Mocktail}
Hello my dear friends!!! Are you looking for a great fall beverage to serve your guests this Thanksgiving?? Have I got the drink for you!! Bourbon is all the rage right now – which is why I dedicated an entire week to bourbon recipes a while back. This Sour Pom-Cider {Cocktail & Mocktail} has that great fall cider flavor but it’s mixed with pomegranate liquor & of course bourbon. WIN WIN!! It’s easy to make & your guests will LOVE it! Oh & I included a non-alcoholic version too. So really you can’t go wrong. This bourbon drink will keep everyone happy during your holiday festivities.
To get the recipe – head on over to see my friend Kelly at Live Laugh Rowe! I’m sharing the details on this tasty bevie over at her place today while she’s touring Rome!! I can’t wait to hear all about her adventures when she returns. I have been following her on Instagram – you should too. She always has something amazing to share – including all her fun she’s having on her trip.
Want more great beverage ideas?
To see where I am linking today- visit HERE
