cranberry moscow mule and blackwatch plaid
hello friday, it’s good to see you. and it’s not just any friday. it’s black friday. i’m not certain if that makes a difference these days since retailers have been slashing prices all year. but there are some good sales to shop online. if you missed the Thanksgiving post, check it out as i shared a few of my favorites.
today, oscar and i are decking the Djalali halls. so i pulled on my Blackwatch plaid pants (old, similar here), a traditional holiday pattern in honor of the occasion. plus, i whipped up a cranberry moscow mule that’s perfect for the holidays and sooooo refreshing.
pants (similar here, here, and here) | sweater | shoes | similar belt | similar bracelet
similar Christmas plates | copper mugs | similar gold tray
Cranberry Moscow Mule
one of my favorite cocktails is a moscow mule. if you’re willing to add an extra step by making homemade cranberry syrup, then you’ll have a cocktail that’s sure to please. it’s as refreshing as it is delicious. it’s a must-make seasonal cocktail. but if you’re more interested in a cocktail, i picked up cranberry ginger sparkling water from Trader Joe’s.
the cranberry syrup is easy to make and takes about twenty minutes from start to finish.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Cranberry Moscow Mule
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce cranberry syrup
- 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
- 6 ounces ginger beer
- lime wedge, mint, and cranberries for garnish
Cranberry Syrup
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
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Combine the cranberries, water, and honey in a small saucepan and place over medium high heat. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until the cranberries soften then fall apart.
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Pour the syrup through fine mesh strainer, and press on the cranberries with a spatula to release as much syrup as possible. Set aside to cool. If the syrup thickens too much as it cools, add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the consistency resembles honey.
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To make one cocktail, Combine the vodka, cranberry syrup, and lime juice in a copper mug. Stir to combine. Fill the mug halfway with crushed ice. Pour the ginger beer over the ice and stir one more. Top with additional crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of mint, lime wedge, and fresh cranberries. Serve immediately. See notes for making a large-batch moscow mule cocktail station.
The cranberry syrup makes enough for four cocktails (about half a cup of syrup).
Trader Joe’s is my go-to store that comes to the rescue when i’m short on time. these delicious appetizers are available in the frozen food section. they’re Pastry Bites with Feta Cheese and Caramelized Onions. i also keep on hand Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip, Spanokopita, Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon, and Mini Quiche Duos. these delicious appetizers are true lifesavers and always a big hit!
today’s outfit is festive without going over the top. what’s easier to throw on than a black turtleneck from Talbots and plaid pants (similar here) from J.Crew? the laceless black oxfords add a modern edge, and i brought in a little bling with my belt buckle (similar here) and bracelet (similar here).
all right, ladies, the holidays are here! let’s enjoy every minute. oscar and i wish you a lovely weekend.
Beautiful post. I love the polar bear! Every year I use snowmen but this year I think I will look for a couple of polar bears for my counter. It all looks so festive and inviting.
I still can’t wear pants that short but they look wonderful on you. I think because I’m short, they cut the length of my leg.
I LOVE plaid, especially black watch…this is a great outfit-wish I was brave enough to wear the shorter pants-I will stick with the black watch pants I just bought from Talbots. Also love a Moscow Mule and this variation sounds delicious!
Good morning!
I just LOVE your blog. I LOVE your style. I LOVE your writing. You’re SO ELEGANT.
May you have The Happiest Holiday Season. You’re a lovely person!
Hi Beth, love the out fit and the recipie. The painting behind you of the bird is lovely, is it an Egret?
Wishing you, Oscar and Ollie a lovely weekend x💖
Beth, I have to tell you…..you have inspired me through fashion….I just recently discovered your blogs, but I had saved several of your pins….thank you for being your “fabulous “ self! You’re making me spend $$$$. 🙃
Bellissima, molto English, anzi very Scottish uno dei miei favoriti look. 👍
Beth, owing to a form of liver and blood disease, I’m unable to drink alcohol and I wonder what mixes you might make for me, if I entered your home for an invited occasion at any time of the year.