Happy 2012! Champagne Cocktails

Good-bye 2011!  Invite over some friends, pop a cork or two, pass around the munchies, and find someone to kiss when the ball drops!

These recipes will help make the last night of this year more memorable. When making Champagne cocktails it isn’t necessary to use the good stuff. Any sparkling wine will do. Chill the champagne flute first. Always pour the mixers in first and then top with the Champagne. These cocktails don’t need to be stirred.

Raspberry Royale:  Add 1 ounce of Chambord to a chilled flute and then top off with Champagne.  Garnish with frozen raspberries.

Mimosa:  Add 1 ounce of orange juice and ½ ounce of triple sec to a chilled flute.  Top off with Champagne and garnish with a twist of orange.

Poinsettia:  Add 1 ounce of cranberry juice and ½ ounce triple sec to a chilled champagne flute.  Top off with champagne and a few frozen cranberries. 

These munchies, much of which can be made ahead, will compliment the cocktails and make your guests very happy! These quick bites also contain protein, which will keep your guests from becoming too happy.

Phyllo Bites

Pecan Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Dip
Baked Egg Rolls with  Sweet & Spicy Hoisin Sauce
Roasted Baby Peppers with Herbed Goat Cheese
Cranberry Bacon Cheese Spread with crackers