Make tonight worth remembering.
Pick one kind of evening, follow the recipe that fits, and leave room to enjoy it. This plan works for an evening to yourself, a night with someone you love, a few friends, or a house full of family.
Choose your evening
Use the recipe page for ingredients, amounts and method.
A quiet night in
A quiet evening, alone or togetherMenu: A drink you want to make, an alcohol-free choice when needed, a small board and an optional warm bite.
- Cocktail night at home connects drink recipes, food, music and preparation.
- Charcuterie planning for quantities and food choices.
- Easy cocktail party bites if you want a warm option.
Shopping notes: Pick your linked recipes, then copy their amounts here. Check the pantry before you shop.
A fall cider gathering
A warm pour and a relaxed tableMenu: Hot cider, a few toppings, a savory bite, and an alcohol-free drink choice. Add a clearly separated adult pour only if it suits your guests.
- Hot apple cider bar for the serving setup.
- Fall mocktails for cozy nights for a measured cold option.
- Cocktail party food ideas for a simple bite.
Shopping notes: Choose the drink and food recipes first. Use their ingredient lists and amounts.
A cocoa evening
A slow afternoon or a winter nightMenu: Hot chocolate, a short row of toppings, and one small sweet or salty bite. The full bar recipe is a large batch; choose a smaller recipe for a quiet evening.
- Hot chocolate bar for a group.
- French hot chocolate for two generous cups.
- French press hot chocolate for one mug.
- Peppermint hot chocolate for a seasonal variation.
Shopping notes: Follow the recipe you chose. Add only the toppings and snack you expect people to enjoy.
Get ready in order
Move the first step earlier when your recipe needs it.
Before shoppingChoose the menu, check what you have, and copy amounts from each recipe.
Earlier that dayFollow the recipe's make-ahead steps. Set out serving pieces and check appliance instructions.
Before pouringArrange cups, drinks, toppings and napkins in order. Put water where everyone can see it.
When people arriveShow them the drink choices, then bring out the food. Take your place at the table.
Keep cold perishables at 40°F or below and hot-held food at 140°F or above. Follow appliance and recipe instructions. See the FDA's buffet food-safety guidance for holding and discard times.