Holiday Hooch Cocktail Recipe

The Holiday Hooch is a festive concoction that's become a favorite in my bar during the winter season. It's a delightful blend that warms the soul and brings cheer to those chilly evenings.

• Origins: This cocktail was born out of a desire to combine the warming notes of coffee with the sweet and spicy flavors of the holiday season.
• Popularity: It quickly became a hit among patrons looking for something to sip on while they unwind by the fireplace.
• Audience: It's particularly popular among those who appreciate a sweet, dessert-like cocktail with a kick.

The Holiday Hooch is a rich and indulgent treat. It's sweet with a prominent gingerbread flavor that's perfectly complemented by the robustness of the coffee. The moonshine adds a smooth, yet potent kick, making it a strong and warming beverage.

• The use of moonshine gives this cocktail a nod to the Prohibition era, adding a bit of historical intrigue.
• Gingerbread liqueur is a seasonal favorite, often associated with winter holidays and festive gatherings.
• Despite its dessert-like qualities, the Holiday Hooch has a caffeine kick thanks to the inclusion of coffee.

1. Pour 3/4 oz of Underground moonshine into an Irish Coffee mug.
2. Add 3 oz of Mr. Stacks gingerbread liqueur.
3. Follow with 3 oz of Illy coffee.
4. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
5. Garnish with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.

• For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream.
• Serve immediately after preparation to enjoy the contrast of hot coffee with the cool whipped cream.
• Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor and to ensure the drink stays hot.

Food Pairings

• Desserts: Given the sweet profile of this cocktail, it would go splendidly with desserts such as chocolate lava cake, cinnamon rolls, or a pecan pie.
• Cheese Boards: A rich and varied cheese board featuring cheeses like aged cheddar, brie, or gouda would complement the spicy and sweet notes of the cocktail.
• Savory Items: For a bit of contrast, consider pairing with savory items like roasted nuts or smoked meats. The bold flavors can stand up to the strength of the moonshine.

Drink Pairings

• Coffee: Additional servings of Illy coffee, possibly decaffeinated to prevent over-caffeination, can further enhance the warm coffee notes.
• Milk or Cream-based drinks: A cold glass of eggnog or a milk punch can harmonize with the creamy texture of whipped cream on the cocktail.

• If Underground moonshine isn't available, any high-quality white whiskey or moonshine can be used as a substitute.
• In place of Mr. Stacks gingerbread liqueur, you could use another brand of gingerbread liqueur or even a homemade gingerbread syrup mixed with a bit of vodka.
• Any premium espresso or strong brewed coffee can take the place of Illy coffee if needed.

Smoky Holiday Hooch

Introduce a smoky element by using a peat-heavy scotch instead of moonshine. Your new recipe might look something like this:

1. Use 3/4 oz of peaty scotch instead of moonshine.
2. Keep the Mr. Stacks gingerbread liqueur and Illy coffee as is.
3. Add a pinch of cinnamon on top of the whipped cream.

By adding the smoky scotch, it will feel like you've just kissed a fireplace. It's sultry, mysterious, and Santa's favorite after a long night.

Spiked Peppermint Mocha Hooch

Transform your concoction into a minty, chocolate delight:

1. Use 1/2 oz moonshine and 1/4 oz peppermint schnapps.
2. Add 1/2 oz chocolate syrup before the coffee.
3. Proceed with gingerbread liqueur and coffee.
4. Garnish with whipped cream and a candy cane.

You'll think you're drinking a candy cane that's been dipped in moonshine - it's festive with a peppermint twist.

Boozy Pumpkin Spice Hooch

Let's go full autumn on this and add some pumpkin spice vibes:

1. Replace gingerbread liqueur with 3 oz pumpkin spice liqueur.
2. Brew the coffee with a cinnamon stick for added spice.
3. Use the same amount of moonshine and whipped cream.

It's like Thanksgiving and Christmas had a baby, and it's delicious. The pumpkin spice brings warmth and joy, the coffee injects life, and the moonshine ties it all together like a big family hug.