Alcohol

We recommend using a good-quality California or Spanish sparkling wine for this recipe. Both are widely available and less expensive than Champagne.This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Louise Pickerel of Muskogee, Oklahoma, writes: "The hot chocolate with coffee and hazelnut liqueurs here is my version of a restaurant recipe. I call it a "chocolate bar," and it does make a nice, lighter alternative to dessert after a filling meal. It's also something good to curl up with in front of the fire." Warming and full of holiday cheer.

Freezing the watermelon and strawberries before mixing the drink eliminates the need for ice  — and allows the fruit flavors to retain their full intensity.

This drink is also known as a Jamaica Ginger.

Keep the glasses and a pitcher of the vodka in the freezer (for at least six hours before the party) so that you can provide instant gratification to each arriving guest. A medicine dropper is a great vermouth dispenser.

Set up an assembly line to make six or so of these lovely cocktails at a time: Fill each glass with the liqueurs, then top with Champagne. Flutes are elegant but not essential.

For soft and chewy cookies, bake these just a couple of minutes less than the recipe directs.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Red Wine-Braised Beef Tenderloin with Red Pepper and Rosemary

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.