Mid-winter Christmas Party?

Is anyone planning a midwinter Christmas party? We don't get to experience a winter Christmas here in New Zealand - although our summer sometimes feels like winter! So having a mid-winter Christmas party is a bit of a novelty.  I've found some mid-winter party inspiration for anyone planning on celebrating winter.

source: New England fine living

Mulled wine in a must! There are number of recipes out there, I found this one at Taste. Just alter the recipe to suit number of guests

Ingredients (serves 4)

10 cloves

2 cinnamon sticks

1/4 cup caster sugar

1 roughly grated nutmeg

2 cups water

roughly grated rind of 1 orange

1 roughly chopped apple (skin on)

750ml light, fruity red wine (e.g. merlot)

Method

1. Heat cloves, cinnamon, sugar, nutmeg, water, orange rind and apple in a large saucepan over medium heat.  Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add red wine and simmer for another 5 minutes.  Remove from heat. Strain and divide among serving glasses.  Serve immediately. 

My family lovvvvveee EGG NOG!! How about some egg nog cupcakes for dessert?

Check out The nibble for a traditional egg nog recipe or Annies Eats for these a recipe for these cupcakes!

I think these are soooo cute, I'm going to make them for our Christmas dinner this year!

Recipe: snowman cupcakes