Feeling like Fall: The Pumpkin Monk Cocktail

Now that November is here, we can set our sights on the next holiday: Thanksgiving. It will honestly be here before we know it. This month on the blog, I've decided to do a series: Everything but the Turkey. I've rounded-up a few of my favorite recipes and entertaining tips for one of my favorite events of the season.Using these recipes and entertaining ideas, you'll be armed with everything you need to throw a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner - minus the bird of course. But don't worry, I've got a great recipe for that too. I wouldn't leave you stranded.Today, I'm kicking it off with a fabulous cocktail, the pumpkin monk.I have always loved Frangelico; it is a hazelnut liqueur that is traditionally served as an after dinner digestivo. There is a legend that Frangelico was made by Friars in the Piedmont region of Italy where hazelnuts are abundant, it has a beautiful, nutty flavor profile.Every year I try to come up with our signature Thanksgiving cocktail, and this one is a palette pleaser and crowd favorite. It's not too sweet because the citrus notes take care of the sweetness. Plus it has a lovely mouth feel.Grab a coupe and enjoy the flavors of the season.xx Annette

The Pumpkin Monk

You will need:

- 1 oz. Frangelico- 1 oz. Appleton Reserve Rum- ¾ oz. lemon juice- ½ oz. pumpkin spice syrup

To prepare:Shake all ingredients and either pour over ice in a rocks glass or serve up in a coupe. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

*Optional Note: run it through a strainer before adding the cinnamon stick and serving.

For the Pumpkin Spice Syrup*this makes 1 cup which is 16 servings

You will need:- 4 teaspoons cinnamon- 2 teaspoons ginger- 1 teaspoon nutmeg- 1 teaspoon allspice- 1 cup water- 1 cup sugar

To prepare:Place in a pot, then bring to a boil and reduce about 10 minutes, set aside to cool.

Photo Credit: Dane Sponberg