Autumn Favorites

Fall is my favorite season.  All it takes is seeing one orange or yellow leaf and I start to think about things like fleece-lined tights, wool skirts and cardigans, blustery weather, and apple picking. 

Something else that I love about fall are the flavors: apple, clove, pumpkin pie, maple syrup, nuts and cinnamon.  All those warming, homey smells that remind you of the holidays and pigging out.  This year, I've already made some real seasonal dishes, like these twice-baked, stuffed mini-pumpkins:

I've also been experimenting with seasonal cocktails, leaning toward spirits such as bourbon and brandy.  Royal Rose Cardamom-Clove Syrup is a natural partner to the warm, spicy flavors of fall.  Try this on a cold, windy evening:

1 cup apple cider
3/4 oz. Royal Rose Cardamom-Clove Syrup, or to taste
squeeze of fresh lemon juice
shot of bourbon
freshly grated cinnamon

Heat the apple cider, syrup, and lemon in a small saucepan.  Off heat, add the bourbon and pour into a mug.  Grate cinnamon on top and enjoy.