(NC) The holidays are a time for celebration, packed with parties and intimate gatherings. Make your next party an event to remember by crafting cocktails in tune with the season. Get creative with the warm spices and seasonal flavours in these delicious recipes.

Hot buttered rye. Fight cooler temperatures with warmer drinks. This alternative to traditional hot buttered rum combines whisky with hot water and ginger liqueur in a heat-safe glass or mug. Use your Vitamix machine to create a decadent topping made with heavy cream and a touch of maple syrup. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Gingerbread martini. Gather some friends at your next holiday party to make gingerbread houses while you sip on gingerbread martinis. Prepare the martini glasses by chilling them in the freezer, then dip the rims in ginger liqueur and crushed ginger snaps. In a martini shaker filled with ice, combine ginger liqueur, vanilla citrus liqueur, coffee-flavoured rum, and a little honey and heavy cream. Shake well and pour. Garnish with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Candy cane cocktail. Candy canes are only available on store shelves once a year, so take advantage of every chance you get to indulge in them. Perfect as a dessert cocktail, this sweet treat combines vanilla rum, white chocolate liqueur, and peppermint schnapps. Add a shot of each to a cocktail shaker full of ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a candy cane or crushed candy cane rim.

Sparkling champagne smoothie. Nothing says celebration like champagne. For a fun twist on a holiday toast, whip up a quick sparkling champagne smoothie. Combine your favourite fruit — fresh or frozen strawberries and peaches are yummy options — with yogurt and a pinch of nutmeg in your Vitamix machine and blend. Pour into toasting flutes, top with chilled champagne, and mix gently to combine. Cheers!

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