Cocktails

Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail #PumpkinWeek

September 19, 2018

Pumpkin isn’t just for sweet and savory recipes, it’s great in cocktails too, like my Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail. Autumn spices are infused in homemade pumpkin pie simple syrup which blends deliciously with smooth bourbon. Whether it’s happy hour at home or cocktails for a crowd, Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail will be your go-to drink this Fall!

This post is sponsored in conjunction with #PumpkinWeek. All opinions are my own.

Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek #sponsored

I know it’s only Wednesday and I’m sharing a cocktail, but this needs to be on your to-do list ASAP! Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect drink to help ring in the Fall season. It’s day 3 of #PumpkinWeek and I would love to share this cocktail in person with my lovely co-hostess, Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures! Don’t forget to enter the #PumpkinWeek giveaway here!

I am definitely a sucker for seasonal drinks. I love being able to celebrate the season with beverages, as well as food, and cocktails are always fun to create. Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup is the base of this drink, and let me tell you, you’ll want to keep this in your refrigerator for not only cocktails, but also coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc. It is delicious and I will probably make a double batch for my next round of cocktails.

I recommend investing in a good fine sieve and/or cheesecloth. You want the flavor of the pumpkin and spices, but a clearer liquid is preferred. But don’t discard the solids left behind. You can use it in place of the puree in my Whipped Pumpkin Pie Honey Butter, add it into the ingredients for Semi-Homemade Pumpkin Butter, or even mix it into a smoothie or ice cream.

We are definitely a bourbon loving household. Mr. L&C was especially excited to be my taste-tester for this round. Make sure you have a good bourbon on hand. A flavored bourbon like vanilla or apple would definitely be okay in this recipe too.

The Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail is topped with club soda. I like that bit of effervescence and how the flavors all blend together. Make sure your simple syrup is completely chilled before making this cocktail.

Here are some items I used for this recipe:

Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

2 ounces Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup
2 ounces bourbon
2-3 ounces club soda
Ice
Maple Syrup
Cinnamon Sugar

Instructions

Place maple syrup and cinnamon sugar each in shallow dishes. Dip a rocks glass into maple syrup, letting excess fall off, then dip into cinnamon sugar.
Fill glass with ice. Combine simple syrup and bourbon in glass and top with club soda.

Yield: 1 serving

Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup

Ingredients

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
pinch salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine water, sugar, pumpkin, spice and salt in medium pan. Heat, stirring consistently, until sugars are dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Place fine mesh sieve over heat-safe container (optionally line with cheesecloth also) and strain the syrup. Refrigerate for up to one week.
*see post for ideas on how to use leftover solids.

Here are today’s #PumpkinWeek Recipes:

Beverages:

Pumpkin Juice- Harry Potter Style from Jonesin’ For Taste
Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail from Love and Confections

Savory:

Creamy Pumpkin Fiesta Chicken Soup from Amy’s Cooking Adventures
One Pot Creamy Pumpkin Bacon Pasta from 4 Sons ‘R’ Us
Pumpkin Chili from It Bakes Me Happy
Pumpkin Chorizo Tamales with Pumpkin Mole from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Pumpkin Grilled Cheese Paninis from Eat Move Make
Pumpkin Hummus from Sweet Beginnings
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese from Everyday Eileen
Pumpkin Pizza from Platter Talk
Savory Loaded Pumpkin Cornbread from Who Needs A Cape?
Savory Pumpkin & Pepper Goat Cheese Tart from Hardly A Goddess

Baked Goods & Desserts:

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread from House of Nash Eats
Fluffy Pumpkin Buttermilk Pancakes from The Redhead Baker
Fluffy Pumpkin Pie Dip from The Beard and The Baker
Mom’s Classic Pumpkin Pie with Vanilla Whipped Cream from Family Around the Table
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake from Cooking with Carlee
Pumpkin Banana Bread from A Day in the Life on the Farm
Pumpkin Cheddar Skillet Corn Bread from Tip Garden
Pumpkin Creme Brulee from Cookaholic Wife
Pumpkin Ginger Donuts from Daily Dish Recipes
Pumpkin Kolaches from The Spiffy Cookie
Pumpkin Maple Bark from Seduction In The Kitchen
Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins from The Bitter Side of Sweet
Pumpkin Pie Crescents from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Pumpkin Pie with Toasted Meringue from The Crumby Kitchen
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Pumpkin Souffle from Caroline’s Cooking
Pumpkin Spice Cake Roll from Grumpy’s Honeybunch
Pumpkin Spiced Cookies from April Golightly

This year is even bigger and better than ever with a giveaway! Thirty nine bloggers from around the country are showcasing their best pumpkin dishes. Get ready for Fall with over 130 pumpkin recipes throughout the week including cocktails, main courses, pizzas, pastas, pastries, breads, muffins, and plenty of desserts! Our PumpkinWeek Sponsors are helping us give away some great prizes. Thank you so much, Sponsors, for your generosity. We have an incredible giveaway below and we’d love if you would take a moment to read about it and what you can win!

Enter the #PumpkinWeek Giveaway here!

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for those 21 & up. Please drink responsibly. Thank you PumpkinWeek Sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, and Eggland’s Best for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for PumpkinWeek recipes. All opinions are my own. The PumpkinWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Three (3) winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The PumpkinWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or any other social channel mentioned in the PumpkinWeek posts or entry.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Simple Southern Pineapple Lemonade

July 30, 2018

When the weather heats up, cool down with an easy homemade pineapple lemonade. This recipe can easily be doubled for your Summer parties and barbecues. Grab your cocktail umbrellas, because you can also enhance the recipe with vodka for an adults-only twist.

This post is sponsored by Dixie Crystals. All opinions are my own.

Simple Summer Pineapple Lemonade from LoveandConfections.com #sponsored by Dixie Crystals

Simple Southern Pineapple Lemonade is the ultimate Summer beverage! Aside from sweet tea, lemonade is one of my favorite drinks. There are so many delicious flavor combinations and sweet pineapple pairs perfectly with the tart lemons. This is the drink I grab when the afternoon showers roll in.

The warm weather we have been having lately has been almost miserable. Our only reprieve is the afternoon storms. I have to run my errands earlier in the day, because we will inevitably get rained on later. Running around with a 4 year old in stormy weather is not on the top of my to-do list, so I pay close attention to the radar.

Pineapple lemonade is great to have on hand while watching the rain clouds roll in. Here, when it rains, the temperature usually drops 10 or more degrees. Since I am in one of the higher parts of Florida, we also get a good breeze, especially when a storm hits. Sitting on the patio sipping a glass of lemonade is also a great way to end a warm day and watch the sun set.

I love making a big pitcher of Pineapple Lemonade. My little one and Mr. L&C both love lemonade and pineapple, so it comes as no surprise that they both love this combination too. I use a classic lemonade recipe then add pineapple juice and pineapple chunks for garnish.

Visit Dixie Crystals for the full recipe:

SIMPLE SOUTHERN PINEAPPLE LEMONADE

Here are some items I used in this recipe:

Until next time,

LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Easy Strawberry Frosé #BrunchWeek

April 30, 2018

Easy Strawberry Frosé is a tasty boozy beverage that is sure to get any brunch, party or celebration started!

This post is sponsored in conjunction with #BrunchWeek. I received product samples from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the #Brunchweek recipes. All opinions are mine alone.

Easy Strawberry Frosé from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Easy Strawberry Frosé combine a few of my favorite things: wine, the color pink, berries, and fun straws. I will totally admit that I love frozen cocktails, and this one could not be easier to make.

Strawberry Frosés are perfect for any brunch, holiday, or girls’ night! I know my girlfriends would love to have appetizers and frosé during our next night out. I love pink party drinks, and these would also be the perfect cocktail for Mother’s Day – especially with a pretty pink tablescape!

You can’t forget the fun straws – I never do. I have so many straws it’s embarrassing, but I love them so much! You never know when you might have a spontaneous get-together and need some cute napkins or straws for cocktails. ‘Always be prepared and ready to party’ is my motto!

When choosing a wine, take into account who will be drinking it. Do your friends tend to favor more dry or sweet wines. I chose a bottle that wasn’t too sweet, so I could add in my own strawberry simple syrup and adjust the sweetness. It helped make the drink perfectly pink, because the rosé lightens when it is frozen and blended.

You will probably need to use 3 ice cube trays when freezing the wine. If necessary, the ice cubes can be made in batches the day before and kept in a freezer plastic bag until blending.

It’s BrunchWeek – my favorite event of the year! I am so excited to be working with this year’s group of bloggers. We have over 150 amazing recipes over the next few days, as well as a big giveaway > enter here! I hope you enjoy all the fabulous recipes this week! Happy brunching!

Easy Strawberry Frosé

By Love and Confections
Published 04/30/2018

Ingredients

1 750ml bottle of rosé
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
2 cups strawberries, washed, hulled and quartered

Instructions

Freeze rosé in ice cube trays overnight.
Place water, sugar and strawberries into a small/medium pot. Stir together and heat until the mixture boils. Cook on low for 10 minutes. Strain syrup into heatproof container, but do not push the berries through. Let it drain naturally for 10 minutes. Cover and refrigerate overnight
In blender, combine ice cubes and 1/2 cup strawberry syrup. Add more to taste. Serve immediately

Take a look at what the #BrunchWeek Bloggers are creating today!

BrunchWeek Beverages:
Cà Phê Trứng (Vietnamese Egg Coffee) from Tara’s Multicultural Table.
Cold Brew with Hazelnut Simple Syrup from The Barbee Housewife.
Hazelnut Milk Punch from Culinary Adventures with Camilla.
Irish Coffee from My Catholic Kitchen.
Strawberry Frosé from Love and Confections.

BrunchWeek Appetizers:
Everything Bagel Dip from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen.

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:
Bacon, Asparagus and Spinach Frittata from Eat Move Make.
Cauliflower Waffles from Caroline’s Cooking.
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole from Karen’s Kitchen Stories.
Deviled Eggs with Capers, Cucumber and Red Onion from Family Around the Table.
Farmers Casserole from A Day in the Life on the Farm.
Ham & Artichoke Strata from The Chef Next Door.

Ham, Asparagus and Gruyere Quiche from The Redhead Baker.

Hash Brown Waffles with Bacon & Eggs from Amy’s Cooking Adventures.

Mom’s Egg Salad Sandwich from Girl Abroad.

Spicy Pimento Cheese Omelet from For the Love of Food.

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains, and Pastries:
Bacon and Cheese Twists from Big Bear’s Wife.
Caramel Apple Dutch Baby from The Bitter Side of Sweet.
Carrot Cake Muffins from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures.
Chocolate Chip Pecan Cinnamon Rolls from Pass the Sushi.

Coconut Cream Pie Donuts from 4 Sons ‘R’ Us.

Coconut Raspberry Skillet Pancake from Books n’ Cooks.
Danish Twists with Cream Cheese Filling from That Skinny Chick Can Bake.
French Toast Muffin Bites from Daily Dish Recipes
Make Ahead Mocha Granola from Wholistic Woman.
Snickerdoodle Pancakes from Mildly Meandering.
Toasted Coconut Granola from Cooking With Carlee.

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:
Antipasto Pizza from Strawberry Blondie Kitchen.
Asparagus & Crab Cake Benedict from The Crumby Kitchen
Breakfast Pizza from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks.
Corned Beef Hash Benedict from Sweet Beginnings.
Mini Breakfast Pot Pies from Forking Up.

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:
I Dream of Hawaii Smoothie Bowl from Brunch-n-Bites.
Prosciutto Wrapped Pineapple Spears from Kudos Kitchen by Renee.
Refrigerator Pickled Asparagus from Shockingly Delicious.

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Breakfast Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies from The Spiffy Cookie.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Coffeecake from It Bakes Me Happy.
Chocolate Coffee Maple Cupcakes from The PinterTest Kitchen.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

This recipe is intended for individuals ages 21 & up. Please drink responsibly. Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, LorAnn Oils and Flavors, Cento Fine Foods, Michigan Asparagus, Cal-Organic and Eggland’s Best for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek recipes. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Seven (7) winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, or any other social channel mentioned in the #Brunchweek posts or entry.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule

May 11, 2017

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic, with 3 different Wish Farms berries – blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. The addition of basil makes it wonderfully herbaceous and refreshing.

This recipe was created for the #BerryDelish contest in conjunction with the Food Wine Conference. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions are mine alone.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #FWCon #BerryDelish

I’m heading to the Food Wine Conference next weekend and cannot wait! One of the conference sponsors, Wish Farms is hosting a #BerryDelish contest, where bloggers were tasked with creating a cocktail or mocktail using their fresh berries. With so many berry good (see what I did there?) cocktail options, like sangrias, mojitos, punches, and spritzers, I knew I wanted to create a show-stopping and delicious variation of a favorite – the Moscow Mule.

Moscow Mules traditionally have mint, vodka and ginger beer. While I do have a beautiful burgeoning mint plant, I wanted to use a different herb for this special drink. My mom is growing an enormous and beautiful basil plant, and I love basil in cocktails, so it was a no-brainer.

How could I choose between all the gorgeous Wish Farms berries? Well, I didn’t. That’s why I made it with three – blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. They come together with a bit of sugar and basil and create a delicious berry syrup as the base of the cocktail.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule

By Love and Confections
Published 05/11/2017

Ingredients

1 cup Wish Farms blueberries
1 cup Wish Farms strawberries
1 cup Wish Farms blackberries
2 tablespoons sugar
1/3 cup water
8-10 large basil leaves, plus more for garnish
5 limes
8 ounces vodka
Ginger beer

Instructions

Place blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, sugar, water and basil leaves in a medium pot and stir together. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then simmer on low for 5-8 minutes, or until all berries have burst or released their juices. Turn off heat and let cool for another 5 minutes.
Using a potato masher, or a large spoon, mash the berries to make sure they have released all the juice. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a heat-proof measuring cup and refrigerate mixture until cold.
Place crushed ice in copper mule glasses. Divide the berry mixture between them, squeeze half a lime into each glass. Add 2 ounces vodka to each glass and top with with ginger beer.
Slice the remaining lime for garnish. Garnish with berries and basil.

Yield: 4 cocktails
Prep Time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.

Cook time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.
Total time: 20 mins.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS

Learn more about Wish Farms and their beautiful berries by visiting their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube.

This post was created for the #BerryDelish contest in conjunction with the Food Wine Conference. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions are mine alone.

Mimosa Bar #BrunchWeek

May 8, 2017

Mimosas are my requirement for brunch and my homemade mimosa bar is sure to steal the show!

This post is sponsored in conjunction with #BrunchWeek. I received product samples from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the #Brunchweek recipes. All opinions are mine alone.

Mimosa Bar from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #sponsored

When I brunch, I love having mimosas. Endless mimosas are great when I brunch out, but mimosa bars at home are even better. I love having options to pair with champagne, and mimosa bars are the best way to please everybody.

Welcome to the fifth annual #BrunchWeek hosted by Me – Love and Confections and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures. We are so excited to have you join us this year as we celebrate Brunch and prepare for Mother’s Day. Forty Bloggers from around the North America will showcase their best brunch dishes, from cocktails to cakes, danish, tarts, and pizzas – with 170 recipes, there is something for everyone! Our amazing Sponsors have donated some great prizes for the #BrunchWeek giveaway.

My favorite flavors are “Flamingo” – orange juice, cranberry juice and champagne, pineapple juice and champagne, or peach juice and champagne. A variety of juices is key, as are a variety of fruit garnishes. I almost always have orange slices, berries, and peach slices. Any combination of fruit is guaranteed to look gorgeous.

Whether you like champagne, prosecco, or any other variety of sparkling wine, make sure it is nicely chilled and you have enough on hand. I usually keep a few in a large ice bucket once my brunches start, and guests can help themselves.

Glassware is important. I love champagne flutes, and prefer stemless for parties – I think it’s just easier both for display, ease of use and in cleaning. You can use real glass or nowadays get some pretty real looking plastic ones too. I always have fun straws on hand to add to my mimosa bar. Straws are a great way to tie in your theme or color scheme. Whichever you prefer, always keep it classy, and have fun!

Mimosa Bar

By Love and Confections
Published 05/08/2017

Mimosas are my requirement for brunch and my homemade mimosa bar is sure to steal the show!

Ingredients

Orange Juice, no pulp
Cranberry Juice
Peach Juice
Champagne, Prosecco, or other Sparkling Wine
Cut up fresh fruit (berries, oranges, peaches, etc)

Instructions

Place juices in easy to serve carafes. Chill bubbly and place in ice buckets. Arrange fruit in pretty bowls.

Prep Time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.

Total time: 10 mins.

Until next time,

LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Take a look at what the #BrunchWeek Bloggers are creating today!
BrunchWeek Beverages:
Homemade Orange Julius from A Day in the Life on the Farm
Kimchi Bloody Mary from kimchi MOM
Mimosa Bar from Love and Confections

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:
Asparagus & Pancetta Frittata from The Chef Next Door
Breakfast Burritos from Books n’ Cooks
Chilaquiles from The Redhead Baker
Coddled Eggs with Bacon and Cheddar from Family Around the Table
Eggs Benedict Breakfast Tacos from The Spiffy Cookie
Parmesan Polenta Brunch Bowl with Asparagus and Sausage from Cooking with Carlee
Put an Egg on it Mac and Cheese from Sew You Think You Can Cook
Smashed Sweet Potato Rosti with Butter Poached Egg from Nik Snacks
Smoked Eggs over Asparagus from Cindy’s Recipes and Writings
Spinach Baked Eggs with Habanero Cheddar from Sweet Beginnings

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:
Apple Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread from Pink Cake Plate
Apple Crumble Bread from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Apple, Sausage & Cheddar Oven Pancake from Wholistic Woman
Cheddar Asparagus Breakfast Tarts from It Bakes Me Happy
Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal from Big Bear’s Wife
Cinnamon Roll Pizza from Palatable Pastime
Best Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
English Raisin Scones with Apple Jam from The Crumby Cupcake
Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls from Gluten Free Crumbley
Strawberry Lemonade Muffins from An Edible Mosaic
Strawberry Rolls with Orange Icing from The Nifty Foodie
Tiramisu French Toast from Brunch-n-Bites
Twisted Star Cinnamon Rolls from Amy’s Cooking Adventures

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:
Biscuits and Gravy Bubble Up from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Cheesy Bacon Chile Rellenos from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Country Fried Steak & Eggs with Habanero Cheddar Gravy from Forking Up
Homemade Chicken Sausage & Egg Stromboli from Hardly a Goddess
Spinach, Artichoke and Asparagus Strata from Cooking in Stilettos
Ultimate Cheddar Grits Bowl from The Barbee Housewife
Veggie Loaded Breakfast Enchiladas from Sarcastic Cooking

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:
Apple and Creamy Ricotta Crepes from From Gate to Plate
Apple Cheddar Bites with Honey and Pepper from Feeding Big
Spring Asparagus Salad from Girl Abroad
Sweet Pea Sipper from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Thai Asparagus Slaw from Jane’s Adventures in Dinner

BrunchWeek Desserts:
Baltimore Peach Cake from Cookaholic Wife
Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake from My Catholic Kitchen

This recipe is intended for individuals ages 21 & up. Please drink responsibly. Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Nielsen-Massey, Rainier Fruit, and Michigan Asparagus for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek recipes. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Six winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, or any other social channel mentioned in the #Brunchweek posts or entry.

Blackberry Lemon Bramble

May 2, 2017

A refreshing cocktail with a berry-licious twist: blackberries, lemons, simple syrup, gin and ginger ale combine into a refreshing drink, perfect for happy hour or evening cocktail. It easily turns from a cocktail to a mocktail too!

Blackberry Lemon Bramble from LoveandConfections.com

I love creating fun cocktails and this Bramble is one of my favorites so far. It has the perfect amount of sweet and tart, and incredibly easy to make. Blackberries are in season right now. The gorgeous, plump, and juicy berries are absolutely delicious and perfect for a Spring or Summer cocktail.

My one pet-peeve about these gorgeous purple fruits are the seeds. I dislike any cocktail that has muddled blackberries and keeps the seeds in. To fix that, I used my food processor then strained the mixture so I had the wonderful blackberry flavor, without all the seeds.

I can definitely imagine myself sitting on my patio, enjoying the Spring sunset, with a Blackberry Lemon Bramble in hand. Don’t forget some fun garnishes – because we eat with our eyes first. I am growing mint in my container garden at the moment and am loving the pop of color it gives. I also have an alternative if you or someone you know is not imbibing. The mocktail tastes just as delicious!

Visit Dixie Crystals for the FULL RECIPE:

BLACKBERRY LEMON BRAMBLE

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

I have an ongoing relationship with Dixie Crystals as a recipe developer and brand ambassador. I receive product, coupons and/or compensation for posts featuring their products. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Love and Confections possible. As always, all opinions are my own.

Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer

January 24, 2017

Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer is sweet, tart, and a great non-alcoholic party drink. Make it extra pretty with some fresh mint and cute straws for someone special!

Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer from LoveandConfections.com

It’s strawberry season in Florida and I am loving it. I have been posting quite a few strawberry photos recently on Instagram, and can’t wait to get in the fields to pick. Until then, I decided to create a refreshing drink, perfect for any occasion – Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer.

Most people associate spritzers with being an alcoholic drink, but my mocktail is just as good. Sweet strawberries blended with lemon-lime soda are mixed with pink lemonade concentrate and more lemon-lime soda. Garnish with some fresh mint, strawberries and a cute straw, and you are ready to party!

I love being surprised with little gifts and treats, so I surprised my Sister for National Compliment Day. In addition to enjoying these Strawberry Lemonade Spritzers with her, we also indulged in some Hand-Dipped Champagne Strawberries and Cake Truffles, compliments of Shari’s Berries. She works really hard as a Physician Assistant, and nothing says “I love you” like some chocolate covered strawberries. I know these definitely brightened her day.

Go ahead and compliment someone today. Say or do something nice to someone – you never know how much they might need it. Hope you have a great day and enjoy a Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer!

Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer

By Adapted from Taste of Home
Published 01/24/2017

Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer is sweet, tart, and a great non-alcoholic party drink. Make it extra pretty with some fresh mint and cute straws for someone special!

Ingredients

10 ounces strawberries, fresh or thawed from frozen
2-liter lemon-lime soda
1 – 12 ounce can frozen pink lemonade, thawed
mint and strawberries for garnish

Instructions

In a blender, process strawberries and 1 cup lemon-lime soda until pureed. Combine pureed strawberries, remaining lemon-lime soda, and pink lemonade in pitcher. Distribute between glasses. Garnish with mint and strawberries.

Yield: 8 drinks
Prep Time: 00 hrs. 05 mins.

Total time: 5 mins.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. I received a complimentary box of strawberries and truffles for both myself and a friend. All opinions are my own.

Spiced Apple Cider Sangria

October 27, 2016

Whip up a batch of Spiced Apple Cider Sangria and be the hit of any Fall gathering. Crisp apple cider and warm spices combine with your favorite Riesling and apple liqueur for the perfect Autumn beverage.

Spiced Apple Cider Sangria from LoveandConfections.com

We have finally gotten some cooler Fall weather and I have been enjoying it immensely. The moment it dips below 70 degrees, everyone brings out the boots and sweaters. Hopefully everyone up North is already enjoying some cool, crisp weather and changing leaves. This Sangria is the perfect Fall cocktail, especially enjoying it by the fire with friends.

The base of this sangria is a cider from Dixie Crystals. The spices make it unbelievably delicious and my house smelled amazing while I created it. No sangria is complete without some good wine and liqueur. I chose a Riesling with apple notes and a spiced apple liqueur. You can also use an apple brandy too.

The changing of the seasons is one thing we don’t experience in Florida. I haven’t seen changing leaves since my parents left North Carolina and I miss it so much. I love when the leaves turn to various shades of red, orange and gold. The crisp, cool weather, beautiful colors and Autumn decorations make Fall my favorite season.

This is the perfect cocktail for Halloween parties and would be great for your Thanksgiving gathering too. Don’t forget to garnish with some apple slices or chunks and fun straws.

Visit Dixie Crystals for the full recipe

SPICED APPLE CIDER SANGRIA!

Until next time,

LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito

May 6, 2016

Sparkling Raspberry Mojitos adds glitz and glam to your brunch with this refreshing cocktail. Substitute Prosecco instead of the traditional club soda to make it extra special.

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito by LoveandConfections.com

It’s Mother’s Day weekend, and I am celebrating in a big way. This is the first time my Mom and I are living in the same city in 12 years. I think we have spent a few Mother’s Days together in that time, but I honestly can’t remember, since it isn’t one of the major holidays. This year is special because not only do I get to spend it with my Mom, but #ToddlerLnC gets to spend it with her grandma!

We have loved having my mom near us the past few months. Especially now that I am a mom, I am appreciative of everything that she has done for me. I am grateful that she is guiding me and helping me raise my little girl, and I can only hope to be as good of a mother to #ToddlerLnC as she has been to me.

If you are hosting a brunch or luncheon, this is the perfect cocktail to treat any special lady in your life. For all those moms-to-be, you could easily make this into a mocktail with club soda and raspberry puree. If you’re going out to eat, I recommend having one of these ready for mom when you get home. Hope you enjoy!

Visit Dixie Crystals to get the FULL RECIPE:

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito

Green Tea Mojitos #BrunchWeek

May 2, 2016

Green Tea Mojitos are a refreshing twist on the classic sweet tea and traditional mojito. Mint, simple syrup, and lime juice blend perfectly with the green tea for a fabulous cocktail, or mocktail

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Welcome to day 1 of #BrunchWeek! My co-hostess, A Kitchen Hoor, and I are so excited for all the Brunch recipes this week. We have a great group of bloggers, amazing sponsors, and fabulous prize packages! all 37 bloggers are sharing delicious recipes today, and you can see them all at the end of the post. Apparently it has become tradition for me to start of #BrunchWeek with a cocktail, so I created these Green Tea Mojitos for the occasion.

I love mojitos, and it’s always fun to put a twist on the classic and glam it up a bit. I was inspired to create this recipe from a little Cuban food truck at my local farmer’s market. They serve the best Cuban Sandwiches and Tea Mojitos. I searched and searched for a recipe so I could re-create it at home, but had no luck; so I created my own.

This mojito is very easy to make and perfect for a warm day. During the Spring and Summer, I have a small herb garden on my patio, and using fresh mint is the key. There is so much flavor and brightness that fresh mint adds to any dish or drink. This would be the perfect drink for a beverage dispenser at a party, just keep the rum on the side as an option, in case there are kids or party-goers who don’t want it.

Visit Dixie Crystals for the FULL RECIPE:
Green Tea Mojitos

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BrunchWeek Beverages:

Green Tea Mojito by Love & Confections.

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

Apple Bacon Cheddar Flatbread by Wholistic Woman.
Apple Cheddar Scones by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks.
Apple Pie Pastry Braid by {i love} my disorganized life.
Bacon, Cheddar & Chive Scones by Books n’ Cooks.
Caramelized Onion Apple Galette by Forking Up.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Sweet Rolls by From Gate to Plate.
Chocolate Zucchini Donuts by My Catholic Kitchen.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread by Making Miracles.
Cornmeal Biscuits with Chorizo Gravy and Scallions by Sweet Beginnings.
{Gluten-Free} Galette Perougienne avec Chamomile by Culinary Adventures with Camilla.
Gluten Free Orange Rolls by Gluten Free Crumbley.
Italian Sweet Rolls by A Day in the Life on the Farm.
Mini Brioche by The Redhead Baker.
Orange Creamsicle Donuts by The Crumby Cupcake.
Peach Cobbler Cinnamon Rolls by The Suburban Soapbox.
Saffron Bread by Jane’s Adventures in Dinner.
Savory Ham & Cheese Waffles by The Chef Next Door.
White Cheddar & Black Pepper Gougéres by The Barbee Housewife.

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

Breakfast Potatoes by Big Bear’s Wife
Cheesy Hash Browns by Cindy’s Recipes and Writings.
Slow Cooker Apple Butter by Casa de Crews.

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

Akuri Scrambled Eggs by Palatable Pastime.
Bubble Up Denver Breakfast Bake by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures.
Carnitas Eggs Benedict with Chipotle Crema in Avocado Halves by Sarcastic Cooking.
Cheesy Breakfast Nachos by Rants From My Crazy Kitchen.
Croque Madame Bread Pudding by Cooking In Stilettos.
Macaroni and Cheese Soufflé by Tara’s Multicultural Table.

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

Apple Cornbread & Ham Roll-Ups by Nik Snacks.
Breakfast Mac & Cheese by The Spiffy Cookie.
Italian Sausage Strata by Feeding Big and more.
Pizza Loaf by The Healthy Fit Foodie.
Shrimp and Andouille Cheddar Grits with Hot Pepper Cream Sauce by The Texan New Yorker.

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Chocolate-dipped Orange Cookies by Family Around the Table.
Jelly Donut Cake by Pink Cake Plate
Raspberry Coffeecake by That Skinny Chick Can Bake.
Strawberry French Toast Cupcakes by Brunch-n-Bites.

Until next time,

LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for individuals ages 21 & up. Please drink responsibly. Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up only. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Eight winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.