Christmas Cocktails & Canapes – the Ultimate Guide 

If you’re in search of a stress-free way to entertain festive guests this Christmas, then a glamorous cocktail party will always deliver. Forgo the feasting and keep things simple with sensational cocktail and canape pairings. Liz Taylor of the event planners,  Taylor Lynn Corporation, shares her top three combinations for a stylish Christmas with zero pressure. 

Anything in Blankets with Tangerine Martini

Pigs in blankets are a festive staple enjoyed by all, and you can easily elevate this family favourite. Swap out bacon for prosciutto and you’re halfway there.  Prawns with lemon, monkfish or halloumi and honey make upscaled substitutes for sausage. If you really can’t do without the pigs, try bringing in another classic – devils on horseback. Combine sausage meat, prunes with fragrant rosemary and sage, wrap and bake.  

You’ll need something fruity and slightly acidic to cut through all that saltiness. A tangerine martini keeps the festive theme. Garnish with a twist of tangerine peel for a fruity flourish. 

Goat’s Cheese with Cranberry G&T

Whether with beetroot and rocket in a mini taco, or wrapped with figs in filo pastry, Goats Cheese is a seasonal crowd-pleaser that makes a menu feel instantly festive. It’s a rich and powerful flavour so you need something bright and full of personality to pair it with. A classic gin and tonic would be an ideal choice, even more suited to the season when spruced up with cranberry and lime juice. 

Bloody Mary King Prawns

Why serve separate cocktails and canapes when you can combine the two for a showstopping platter. A shot glass of tangy, spicy Bloody Mary garnished with capers, lemon, and a jumbo king prawn. Dip the rim of the glass in celery salt and black pepper for a further taste contrast.  

About Liz Taylor Consulting

Liz Taylor is founder and CEO of the event planners, the Taylor Lynn Corporation, and has been at the forefront of the UK event scene for over thirty years. She also runs her own luxury hospitality consultancy helping aspiring brands to break into the luxury market.  Find out more at Liz Taylor Consulting https://www.liz-taylor-consulting.co.uk/  

For more party ideas and enquiries visit www.tlc-ltd.co.uk │ Twitter: @taylorlynncorp │ Instagram: @taylorlynncorp │Facebook: @taylorlynncorporation 

Read about Liz Taylor’s memoirs Taylor Made