Christmas and thanksgiving charcuterie cheese and meat table inspiration for holiday parties

After just decorating our house with new winter decor, I thought it would be fun to throw a holiday party for our friends at our house this year. I had the idea of doing the cheese board directly on the table instead of a platter or board after seeing a friend doing it and it looked gorgeous. Although it turned out beautiful, I have to say I probably won’t ever be doing it again myself. ???? We had to buy a ton of food and it was a lot more work than I initially thought. So major props to all of you hostesses who can pull this off and making it look so easy!

As you guys can see, there was plenty of food – meats, cheese, shrimp, fruits, bread, crackers, dips, etc. and other small finger foods. I also made my favorite chili and chicken soup that was a huge hit with everyone. We had 8 couples over with food leftover at the end just for reference.

Christmas and thanksgiving charcuterie cheese and meat table inspiration for holiday partiesChristmas and thanksgiving charcuterie cheese and meat platter inspiration for holiday parties

Festive Cocktail Recipes for Holiday Parties

I also thought it would be fun to make specialty holiday cocktails as well! I went with 2: Peppermint Martinis and Cranberry Moscow Mules. Whenever I make drinks at home, I use this jigger and shaker.

christmas cocktails - Cranberry Moscow mule vodka drink recipe for holiday parties
Copper Moscow Mule Mug // Snowfall Wine Glass

christmas cocktails - Cranberry Moscow mule vodka drink recipe for holiday parties

Cranberry Moscow Mule

This classic moscow mule recipe made with a festive spin is perfect to make for any holiday celebrations.
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Course Drinks

Ingredients
  

  • 1 part vodka
  • 1 part cranberry juice cocktail
  • 2 parts ginger beer
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Lime wedges fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Pour vodka, cranberry juice cocktail, beer and lime juice in a copper mug filled with ice. Gently stir to combine.
  • Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cranberries and a sprig of fresh rosemary.

Festive Christmas cocktails with vodka - peppermint martini recipe for holiday parties

Festive Christmas cocktails with vodka - peppermint martini recipe for holiday parties

Peppermint Martini

Made with peppermint vodka, this sweet cocktail is a guest-favorite and sets the holiday mood at your next gathering.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 1

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 ounce Peppermint Vodka
  • 1 1/2 ounce Vanilla Vodka
  • 1 ounce Creme de Menthe
  • candy canes or peppermints for garnish and rimming the glass

Instructions
 

  • Fill a martini glass with ice.
  • Optional - crush a few candy canes or peppermints in a zip loc bag to use to rim the glass.
  • Add peppermint vodka, vanilla vodka and creme de menthe to a cocktail shaker.
  • Fill shaker 3/4 full of ice. Place on the cap and shake for 15-30 seconds.
  • Dump ice out of the glass and if desired, rub a little of the peppermint vodka on the rim and dip the glass in the crushed peppermint.
  • Strain cocktail into glass. Garnish with a candy cane or a piece of peppermint candy.

xo, Jaime

Credits to Yummly and The Blond Cook for the holiday drink recipes.