Nutella Cocoa with Roasted Marshmallows

I've been pretty excited for Fall to usher its way in. I know, I know. I'm one of the crazy people who loves Summer least of all the seasons. Though I love the activity of Summer, I enjoy the newness of Spring, the relief of Fall, and the coziness of Winter just a bit more. There's nothing quite like Fall in my book.

The induction of boots, plaid, and layers. My favorite spices - cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg filling the air with homemade stove simmers. Warm Chai lattes and lighting candles without worrying about them making the house too warm. Orchards and cider and the briskness in the air.

Trying not to get too caught up in wishing the season away, I've been infusing little bits of Fall into my days, while still soaking up Summer. I made this cocoa to sip during a recent bonfire and it was the perfect bridge between seasons - a warm, cozy drink with a staple of Summer.

NUTELLA COCOA WITH ROASTED MARSHMALLOWS

1 cup of milk - regular, almond, soy will work

1 Tablespoon of Nutella

Healthy handful of marshmallows

Summer bonfire

Add a large tablespoon of Nutella to a mug of steamed milk and whisk together until combined. 

Top with bonfire-roasted marshmallow. 

Sip away and savor Summer.

Summer Cocktail: Pimm's Cup

Anyone who knows me knows that I love all things London.

I vacationed there with my mum, studied abroad there during University, and honeymooned there with my strapping young fella.
(That's me pretending to be Bri-ish.)

To say I hold it dear to my heart wouldn't do the city justice. 

This weekend, I decided to make a Pimm's Cup, a cocktail we had and loved on our honeymoon. 

It's really easy, refreshing, and fun. Sort of like a British sangria.

The perfect recipe to add into your summer hosting rolodex. 

For anyone unfamiliar with Pimm's. It's a gin-based liqueur with notes of spice and citrus. 

Kind of bitter on it's own, but made perfect with a bit of citrus and sweet.

Pour 1.5oz of Pimm's liqueur over ice. 

Top off with ginger ale, tonic, lemonade or any sparkling/citrus beverage that you fancy.

Add any assortment of fruit you wish. 

I used frozen berries because that's what we had on hand, but anything works - cucumbers, mint, oranges, or apples. 

Squeeze just a bit of lemon in to highlight the citrus.

Stir and adorn the glass with whatever fruit pieces of your choosing. 

Enjoy!

images: hilaryclair