Tag: recipes

Best Fall Beverages to Enjoy at the Lake

Posted on Camille Smith

Autumn at the lake is the essence of hygge — the Danish concept for comfort and coziness. While fall leaves cover the ground in the crisp air outside, you’re under a blanket on the screened porch with a book in hand. Just thinking about it conjures feelings of warmth and comfort. During this snug season at your lake house, warm beverages add to the essence of fall. Check out our favorite recipes for fall beverages to enjoy at your lake house!

Apple Cider

Photo courtesy of Gimme Some Oven.

A crockpot is not just for chili! If you have one of these popular cooking devices, you can use it to make the perfect homemade apple cider for you and your guests. Who doesn’t love this classic fall beverage? 

Ingredients: 

  • Fresh apples 
  • Sweetener (any kind)
  • Warming spices (cinnamon sticks or cloves)
  • Water 

Directions: Add apples, oranges, and spices to the bowl of a slow cooker and cover with water. Leave 1-2 inches of space at the top. Then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or on high for 3-4 hours) until apples are soft. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, mash all apples and oranges against the side of the cooker (this releases more flavors). Simmer a little longer, then strain all the solids to release the juices. Discard solids and stir in sweetener. Serve warm!

Recipe courtesy of Gimme Some Oven

Chaider

Photo courtesy of Bon Appetit.

A step beyond your traditional apple cider, this fall beverage is half apple cider and half chai. The combination of masala chai spices with a cinnamon apple taste is simply delicious. If you’re not up for DIY, you can also order a Chaider on Starbucks’ “secret menu.” 

Ingredients: 

  • 3 ½ cups apple cider
  • 18 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • One 3” cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
  • One 2” ginger, peeled and thinly sliced 
  • 6 whole cloves 
  • 1 tsp. Black peppercorns 
  • 4 black tea bags 
  • 2 tsp. Ghee, unsalted butter, or virgin coconut oil (optional) 

Directions: In a medium saucepan, bring apple cider, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and peppercorns to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes occasionally stirring until it’s reduced by about half. Remove from heat. Add tea bags and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring glass, pressing on solids. Put Chaider back in the saucepan and reheat until simmering. Divide ghee between mugs and serve hot! 

Recipe courtesy of Bon Appetit

Pumpkin Milkshakes

Photo courtesy of Taste of Home.

Pumpkin is a classic autumn flavor, and when you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, a pumpkin milkshake is perfect. This homemade fall beverage blends ice cream with timeless fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup orange juice 
  • 4 cups vanilla ice cream 
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin 
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar 
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Black licorice twists (optional) 

Directions: Place the first 7 ingredients in a blender and process until smooth (20-30 seconds). Serve immediately and include licorice stirrers as a garnish if you’d like. 

Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home

Mulled Wine

Photo courtesy of A Couple Cooks.

While a bubbly Lambrusco is perfect for late summer and early fall, you’ll want something warmer when the weather gets colder. Enter mulled wine. This warm wine with marinated autumn spices is the perfect fall beverage to enjoy on your screened-in porch. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 orange 
  • 1 bottle of red wine 
  • 12 cloves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks 
  • 1 teaspoon allspice 
  • 2 tablespoons honey 

Directions: Zest the orange, only keeping the peel. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer on low for 20 minutes. Make sure not to boil! Add more honey to taste, and serve warm. 

Recipe courtesy of A Couple Cooks.

Pear and Apple Sangria

Photo courtesy of The Forked Spoon.

For a more fruity flavored alcoholic drink, this pear and apple sangria recipe is perfect. Each glass is filled with sliced fruits, making it festive for the season. Your lake house guests will love this fun, flavorful cocktail. Plus, it’s super simple to make! 

Ingredients: 

  • Fresh pears 
  • Fresh apples 
  • Fresh oranges 
  • White wine 
  • Pear liqueur 
  • Hard apple cider
  • Cinnamon sticks 
  • Fresh rosemary 

Directions: Chop fruit and transfer into a large pitcher. Add alcohol and cinnamon sticks, then stir. Refrigerate for an hour to chill. Fill glasses with ice and use a wooden spoon to scoop fruit from the pitcher. Fill glasses with sangria and garnish with rosemary. 

Recipe courtesy of The Forked Spoon.

We hope you enjoy these classic and delicious fall beverages at your lake house! Which one is your favorite?

5 Trail Mix Recipes for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Chubby Soul.

Whether you’re braving an arduous hiking trail or enjoying a lazy afternoon on the boat dock, trail mix is an unbeatable snack. It’s lightweight yet dense, easily portable, and doesn’t require refrigeration — making it a perfect choice for on-the-go nature enthusiasts. Besides these benefits, one of the best parts is that you can customize your batch. Perhaps you love Archer Farms’ Monster Mix or the classic Planters’ brand, but you wish it didn’t include raisins. Making your own trail mix is guaranteed to be free of pesky ingredients you’re not into. Plus, it’s unbelievably simple to make! In honor of National Trail Mix Day, check out these five trail mix recipes to try for your next outdoor adventure – whatever it may be!

Maple Glazed Trail Mix

Many trail mix recipes are either decadent or health-focused, but this one from Freshoffthegrid.com is the best of both worlds. The combination of sweet coconut flakes and hearty almonds makes for a satisfying Fall-themed snack. Whether you’re hitting the trail or hanging at your lake house, one handful won’t be enough. 

Ingredients: 

  • ½ cup of raw almonds 
  • ½ cup raw pecan halves 
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut chips
  • ¼ cup pepitas 
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup 
  • ⅛ teaspoon sea salt 
  • ¼ cup chocolate chips 
  • ¼ cup dried cherries 

Directions: Preheat oven to 300 degrees. While it’s heating, mix almonds, pecans, coconut chips, pepitas, and maple syrup into a medium bowl. Stir to coat the nuts with syrup evenly. Spread mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Once cooled, transfer to a bowl with chocolate chips and cherries.

Homemade Healthy Trail Mix

Are you looking for a nutrient-dense snack? Blogger and dietician, Carrie Walder, features a health-focused trail mix recipe on her blog, Walder Wellness. Her recipe is simple — dried fruits and raw nuts. However, this particular combination complete with mango slices has a tropical flair perfect for late summertime. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup raw cashews 
  • ½ cup raw almonds 
  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut chips 
  • 2 cups unsweetened dried mangos, chopped 
  • ½ cup banana chips 

Directions: Mix all ingredients into a large glass container. Scoop into plastic bags and bring on your next outdoor adventure! 

Classic Chex Monster Mix

If Chex Mix and trail mix had a child, this recipe would be it. Straight from Chex’s website, this tasty treat combines the light, crunchy texture of Chex squares with salty, filling nuts. To top it off, M&M pieces and chocolate chips add a sweetness that benefits all trail mix recipes. Kids and adults alike will compete for handfuls of this perfect lake snack. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups of Chocolate Chex cereal 
  • 2 cups of Rice Chex cereal 
  • 1 cup raisins 
  • 1 cup candy-coated chocolate candies 
  • 1 cup cocktail peanuts 
  • 1 cup roasted salted almonds 
  • ½ cup milk chocolate chips 

Directions: Combine all ingredients into a large bowl. Mix well and store in a covered container. 

Pumpkin Spice Roasted Chickpea Trail Mix

Calling all chickpea enthusiasts! Essentially the pumpkin spiced latte of trail mix recipes, this creation from the blog Eating Bird Food is a perfect combo of sweet and salty that goes well with a crisp Autumn afternoon at your lake house. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 
  • 5-6 drops of stevia (or 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup)
  • ½ cup unsweetened large flaked coconut flakes 
  • ½ cup almond slices 
  • ¼ cup enjoy life mini chocolate chips 

Directions: The bulk of this recipe involves roasting the chickpeas. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. After rinsing the chickpeas, pat them dry with paper towels and place them in a bowl. Add the pumpkin pie spice and stevia and stir to combine ingredients. Bake chickpeas on a baking sheet for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Once they’re crispy, set aside to cool. Place the remaining ingredients in a bowl and add chickpeas! 

Decadent Trail Mix

We’re saving the sweetest for last. If you’re a chocolate fan looking for a dessert-like snack, this Decadent Trail Mix from The Cole Mines blog is perfect. The combination of salty and sweet is addictive, and the butterscotch and chocolate pairing makes for a delectable, unique treat. Around the holidays, opt for red and green M&Ms for a festive flare. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup salted peanuts 
  • 1 cup raisins 
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 
  • 1 cup butterscotch chips (or peanut butter)
  • 1 cup M&Ms 

Directions: Mix all the ingredients in a Tupperware container or Ziplock bag. Enjoy and share with guests! 

During a long day in the great outdoors, homemade trail mix recipes are a fun, delicious treat. Whether you opt for a healthy or chocolatey snack today, we at Lake Homes wish you a Happy National Trail Mix Day! 

Fun Ice Cream Recipes to Try This Summer

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Fox Island Creamery.

Finally– the holiday we’ve all been waiting for this summer. In honor of National Ice Cream Day on July 19th, we’re taking a look at some delicious homemade ice cream recipes. Whatever your preferred flavor, there’s a frozen treat for you to enjoy at your lake house. 

Hot Cocoa Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of Delish.com.

There’s nothing better than drinking a warm hot chocolate while watching falling snow outside your lake house in winter. This ice cream recipe is simply the colder equivalent of that delicious treat. Add some chocolate drizzle and a candy cane for a little Christmas in July.

Ingredients: 

  • 3 c. heavy cream 
  • 1 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk 
  • 3 hot cocoa packets 
  • 1 c. mini marshmallows, more for garnish 

Directions: Beat heavy cream in a stand mixer with an attached whisk. In the mixture, fold in mini marshmallows and hot cocoa. Move the mixture to a 9” x 5” loaf pan and smooth with a spatula. Top with additional marshmallows and freeze for 5 hours, until firm. When ready to serve, let soften outside the freezer for 10 minutes. 

Check out the full recipe from Delish.com.

Strawberry Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of MarthaStewart.com.

Strawberry ice cream is a classic warm-weathered dessert. Enjoy this light and refreshing fruity flavor from the comfort of your lake home. The chunks of strawberries add a fun texture to this treat.

Ingredients: 

  • 1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved 
  • 8 ounces more strawberries, coarsely chopped 
  • 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice 
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt 
  • 1 cup low-fat milk 
  • 1 cup heavy cream 
  • ⅔ cup sugar, plus ½ cup more for macerating 
  • ½ cup light corn syrup 
  • ¼ cup vodka or silver tequila 

Directions: Puree halved strawberries with lemon juice and salt in a blender. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to create 1 ½ cups of puree. Combine milk, cream, ⅔ cup sugar, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Once you’ve brought to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Strain mixture into a bowl in an ice bath and occasionally stir for five minutes until cold. Stir in strawberry puree, refrigerate covered for at least 2 hours. 

See the full recipe from marthastewart.com. 

Cookies and Cream

Photo courtesy of SouthernLiving.com.

Whether you’re a kid or an adult, cookies and cream is a staple ice cream flavor. The key to getting this beloved ice cream recipe right is in the cookies. Make sure you’re crushing them with consistency, so every bite is delicious. Keep in mind that you need an electric ice cream maker for this one!

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup cold whole milk 
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar 
  • 2 cups cold heavy cream 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
  • 18 Oreos (or other cream filled sandwich cookies)

Directions: Whisk milk and sugar until sugar dissolves. Then, stir in heavy cream and vanilla. Transfer to an electric ice cream maker and freeze according to instructions. Meanwhile, crush cookies in a ziplock bag into a sandy consistency. Add cookie mixture to ice cream as the machine is running. Once it’s done, transfer the ice cream to a 9” x 5” loaf pan. Chop the remaining 8 cookies, sprinkle over the ice cream, and fold. Freeze for 2 hours. 

View the full recipe at Southernliving.com. 

Cannoli Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of Delish.com.

Cannolis and ice cream are delicious separately, but they’re even better together. If you can’t find cannoli shells at the store, try substituting graham crackers or ice cream cone pieces for a similar crunchy texture.

Ingredients: 

  • 2 c. heavy cream 
  • 1 (14.5 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 
  • ½ c. ricotta cheese 
  • ½ tsp. Ground cinnamon 
  • ¼ tsp. Ground nutmeg 
  • 2 c. mini chocolate chips, divided 
  • 1 ½ c. crushed cannoli shells, divided 
  • ½ c. chopped pistachios, divided 
  • Cones for serving 

Directions: Beat heavy cream for five minutes in a large bowl with a whisk or hand mixer. Fold in sweetened condensed milk, ricotta, cinnamon, and nutmeg until it’s thoroughly combined. Then, fold in 1 ¼ cups mini chocolate chips, 1 ¼ cup crushed cannoli shells and all chopped pistachios except two tablespoons. Once it’s combined, transfer to a 9”x 5” pan and top with remaining chocolate chips, cannoli shells, and pistachios. Freeze five hours until solid, then let soften 10 minutes before scooping. 

View the full recipe on Delish.com. 

Vanilla Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of CountryLiving.com.

We’re going back to the basics. Sometimes, nothing beats a simple scoop of vanilla. This vanilla bean recipe is the perfect blank slate, so you can keep it plain or add fun mix-ins like m&ms, chocolate glaze, or sliced almonds. Whatever you prefer on a warm lake day!

Ingredients: 

  • 3 c. whole milk 
  • 2 c. heavy cream 
  • ½ c. sugar 
  • ¼ tsp. Kosher salt 
  • 1 vanilla bean 
  • 5 large egg yolks 

Directions: Whisk all ingredients besides the eggs in a large, heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 4 minutes, stirring until sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot. Gradually whisk 1 cup hot milk mixture into yolks. Whisk yolk mixture into remaining milk mixture and cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, whisking constantly. The mixture will thicken. Then, pour through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a bowl, discarding solids. Cool completely. Chill between 8-24 hours. Pour into an electric ice cream maker and freeze according to instructions. 

See the entire recipe on Countryliving.com.

Vanilla Almond Ice Cream with Cherries and Pistachios

Photo courtesy of FoodandWine.com.

If you have gourmet tastes, this ice cream recipe is for you. The combination of nuts and fruit brings out a refreshing, natural flavor. Keep in mind that this dessert calls for a few more ingredients than your standard homemade ice cream, but the tasty payoff is worth it.

Ingredients: 

  • 6 egg yolks 
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream 
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk 
  • ¾ cup sugar 
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt 
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise with seeds scraped 
  • ½ teaspoon pure almond extract 
  • ¾ cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved 
  • ¼ cup shelled pistachios, chopped 

Directions: Put a medium bowl into a large bowl of ice water. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks for 1-2 minutes. Whisk cream with milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla bean and seeds in a medium saucepan. Simmer until sugar is dissolved. Gradually whisk half of the mixture into the egg yolks, then whisk back into the saucepan. Cook on low heat, constantly stirring for 12 minutes. Strain the custard through a medium-mesh strainer into the ice water bowl. Discard vanilla bean. Let it cool, then stir in almond extract. Seal in a freezer bag and lay flat in the freezer for at least 8 hours. Transfer frozen custard to a food processor and pulse until smooth. Transfer to 9”x4” pan and fold in cherries and pistachios. Cover and freeze for 6 hours. 

Check out all the recipe details at foodandwine.com.

Don’t have the kitchen tools needed for some of these recipes? No sweat! You can always enjoy homemade ice cream at the lake using the tried-and-true ice cream recipe in a bag. It’s an easy and fun science experiment that’s just as tasty.

From us at Lake Homes Realty, Happy National Ice Cream Day! 

Stars, Stripes, and Sips: Recipes for 4th of July Cocktails

Posted on Camille Smith
4th-of-July-cocktails
Photo courtesy of Home Is Where The Boat Is.

What’s your favorite July 4th tradition? Maybe it’s grilling burgers and taking your family on the boat. Or tasting the first bite of homemade apple pie and admiring the fireworks’ reflection in the water. Whatever your routine may be, a lake home is an unbeatable setting for this holiday. To top off the celebration, you can create 4th of July cocktails for you and your guests. After all, there are few excuses throughout the year to serve whimsical, colorful cocktails. Plus, you can skip the alcohol with most of these drinks, so they’re appropriate for kids. This holiday, pick your patriotic poison and enjoy the lake!

Red, White, and Blue Spritzer

Photo courtesy of Pretty Plain Janes.

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, this spritzer is a perfect choice. Add some fresh strawberries and blueberries for the full red, white, and blue effect.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup simple syrup (1 part sugar + 1 part water, boiled until dissolved and cooled) 
  • ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced in halves
  • ½ cup fresh blueberries 
  • 1 bottle dry white wine 
  • Club soda or tonic water 
  • Ice 
  • Fresh mint for garnish 

Directions: Add ice to pitcher until full and top with berries (save some for individual glasses). Pour in simple syrup and wine until the pitcher is ¾ full, then add soda or tonic water. Stir, serve and garnish with mint and extra fruit.

Courtesy of: Pretty Plain Janes

Sugar Cookie Pudding Shots

Photo courtesy of Jelly Shot Test Kitchen.

Confectionery sweetness meets alcohol with these celebratory shots. The bright colors and thick, pudding consistency make for a fun, festive treat. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 box white chocolate flavored instant pudding 
  • 1 cup cold milk (any kind) 
  • ¾ cup vanilla vodka 
  • 2 tbsp amaretto liquor 
  • ½ cup whipped topping (or whipped cream) 
  • Red and blue liquid food coloring 
  • Cookies or sprinkles for garnish

Directions: In a medium bowl, pour pudding mix and add cold milk. Beat for two minutes. Add the vodka, ¼ cup at a time (combine thoroughly before each new ¼ cup addition). Stir in amaretto and whip. Evenly divide the pudding mixture into 3 bowls. Tint the first bowl with red food coloring, the second bowl blue. Leave the last one white. Layer the puddings in shot glasses and top with chosen garnish.

Courtesy of: Jelly Shot Test Kitchen

Firecracker

Photo courtesy of Liquor.com.

This cocktail’s spicy flavors are just as sizzling as the fireworks. For those who enjoy a relatively simple cocktail with a few fun flavors, this is for you. 

Ingredients: 

  • 4 watermelon chunks 
  • 3 oz Flor de Caña Grand Reserve seven-year-old rum
  • 1 oz Triple sec 
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice 
  • 1 oz simple syrup 
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper 
  • Lime wedge for garnish 

Directions: Muddle the watermelon in a mixing glass. Add all other remaining ingredients and ice and stir. Unstrained, pour into a cocktail or margarita glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Courtesy of: Liquor.com

Red, White, and Blue Sangria

Photo courtesy of Certified Pastry Aficionado.

Sangria is a summer staple (alliteration, anyone?). But this time, you don’t have to decide between red and white wine as the base. As long as you add blue, it’s patriotic. 

Ingredients: 

  • ¼ cup of sugar 
  • ¼ cup brandy liquor 
  • 1 750 mL bottle of dry white wine
  • 12 ounces lemon-lime soda 
  • 1 pound strawberries (sliced) 
  • 1 dry pint blueberries 
  • Ice (for serving) 

Directions: In a pitcher, mix sugar and brandy and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add a bottle of chardonnay and lemon-lime soda. Stir, then add strawberries and blueberries. You can let it sit for a few hours ahead of time to absorb all the flavors. When ready to serve, fill glasses halfway with ice, then pour sangria and serve immediately.

Courtesy of: Certified Pastry Aficionado

Red, White, and Boozy Margarita

Photo courtesy of Delish.com.

Nothing says “summertime” like a frozen margarita. But this time, try it with a 4th of July flare. After a day of grilling and relaxing in the sun, cool down with this colorful recipe. 

Ingredients: 

  • 9 cups ice 
  • 6 oz. silver tequila 
  • 3 oz. triple sec 
  • 2 oz. grenadine (for the red layer) 
  • 2 oz. blue curaçao (for the blue layer) 
  • 2 oz. lime juice (for the white layer) 

Directions: Divide ingredients for ice, tequila, and triple sec into thirds, and use ⅓ of each amount for each layer. Make the red layer by blending all ingredients, dividing evenly into glasses, and then repeating them with blue and white layers. Serve immediately.


Courtesy of: Delish.com

Red, White, and Blueberry Mule

Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Crafted.

If Moscow Mules are your cocktail of choice, try this festive twist on your favorite beverage. It has the same classic mix of vodka and ginger beer, with a unique fruity flavor. Don’t let your copper mugs go to waste this holiday! 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 oz. berry vodka (blueberry or raspberry)
  • 6 oz. ginger beer 
  • Blueberries 
  • Blackberries 

Directions: Muddle blueberries and blackberries in a shaker. Add vodka and shake. In a Moscow Mule mug, fill with ice and pour vodka and berries mixture. Fill with ginger beer and garnish with extra blueberries and blackberries.

Courtesy of: Brooklyn Crafted

From all of us at Lake Homes Realty, happy 4th of July!

5 Best Homemade Treats to Keep Cool This Summer

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of SaranacLake.com.

From water sports to sunbathing, summertime represents the essence of lake living. In honor of the first day of summer, we’re celebrating by making delicious frozen treats. Each one of these chilled recipes is easy to make from the comfort of your lake house. Read on for our top picks that will keep you cool in the summer heat! 

Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of foodnetwork.com.

You don’t have to wait in the Ben and Jerry’s line for the perfect ice cream. You probably have most of the ingredients you need at home. As a fun bonus, it’s a science experiment so that you can observe chemistry in action. Toss in toppings like cookie crumbles, fudge, or fresh fruit and enjoy! 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups whole milk 
  • ½ cup granulated sugar 
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 
  • 10 cups ice 
  • 8 tablespoons rock salt 

Directions: In a medium bowl, mix milk, sugar, and vanilla. Pour half of the mixture into a sandwich bag and seal tightly. Place the bag into a larger plastic bag, add the remaining batter, and seal. In a 4 quart Tupperware, add rock salt, ice, and plastic bags. Shake for 5 minutes and voila — you’ve got ice cream! Check out the full recipe here. 

Snow Cones

Photo courtesy of diys.com.

You don’t need a snow cone maker to enjoy this frozen treat at your lake house. As long as you have a blender, you’re all set. Whether you use Kool-Aid packets or another powdered drink mix, you can customize with your favorite flavors like cherry, blueberry, and grape. Pick up some cone-shaped cups and enjoy. 

Ingredients: 

  • 4 cups of water 
  • 4 cups of sugar
  • 4 envelopes powdered drink mix 
  • 4 cups crescent-shaped ice cubes 
  • 1-2 tablespoons water 

Directions: Boil 4 cups of water in a large saucepan on medium-high. Stir in sugar until it’s dissolved. Divide this syrup evenly into 4 medium bowls and add an envelope of powdered drink mix to each. Stir until powder is dissolved, then pour into 4 squeeze bottles. In a blender, pulse ice until it is crushed. Sprinkle water over ice, scoop into balls, and drizzle syrup. View the full recipe here. 

Ice Pops

Photo courtesy of laylita.com.

Simply a classic, ice pops are a favorite among parents and kids alike. They’re also easy to make with a prep time of only 5-10 minutes. Just be sure to factor in the 5 hours of freezing time. You can set them in the freezer in the morning, enjoy an afternoon on the lake, and come back for afternoon ice pops. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups of frozen strawberries or blueberries (thawed)
  • ¼ cup apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey 
  • ½ lemon, juiced 
  • 1 pinch salt 

Directions: Combine all ingredients into a blender until smooth. Pour blended juice into ice pop molds and freeze for 5 hours. If you don’t have molds, pour juice into 3-ounce plastic cups, cover with foil, and insert popsicle sticks through the foil into the cups. Find the recipe here. 

Monkey Tails

Photo courtesy of SimpleRootsWellness.com.

Monkey tails are the chocolate lover’s alternative to fruity ice pops. A refreshing twist on the classic chocolate and banana combination makes these delectable snacks full of rich flavors, creating an ideal summer dessert. Feel free to top with crushed nuts or coconut flakes.

Ingredients: 

  • 6 large bananas 
  • 2 cups dark chocolate chips 
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil 
  • Popsicle sticks 
  • 2 tbsp chopped nuts or coconut flakes (optional)

Directions: Insert a popsicle stick into the ends of each banana and place on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze for 1-2 hours. Meanwhile, mix chocolate chips and vegetable oil and microwave in 30-second intervals until chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove bananas from the freezer, dip in chocolate, then place back in the freezer until chocolate is firm (30 minutes). Check out the recipe here. 

Mocktail Piña Colada

Photo courtesy of delish.com.

If you like piña coladas (as the song goes), this is the perfect summer treat for you and your kids. This fruity, tropical beverage is a great way to wind down while watching the sunset on your boat dock. Include colorful straws and a cocktail umbrella for the full tiki bar effect. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 ripe bananas 
  • 1 cup of freshly diced pineapples 
  • 1 cup of pineapple juice
  • ½ cup of coconut milk 
  • 3 cups of ice cubes 
  • Pineapple wedges for garnish 

Directions: Blend all ingredients except pineapples in a blender, then pour the mixture into glasses and garnish with pineapple wedges. Serve while it’s cold! View the recipe, and other great mocktails, here.

Now enjoy the first day of summer at the lake — and stay cool!

Summer Sips and Spirits – Tasty Lake-Inspired Cocktails

Posted on Staff

Article co-written by LakeHomes.com intern Sam Harvey

Get your sweet summer sip on with these fun and fruity lake-inspired cocktails!

Summer Sangria with Watermelon and Pineapple

This simple, delicious summer sangria is crisp and refreshing, exactly what you need after a relaxing day of sunbathing by the lake. (Serves 4-6.)

Photo Courtesy of What the Fork Food Blog

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of Moscato (750 ml)
  • 1 cup brandy
  • 1 lime, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups fresh watermelon cubes, chilled
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple cubes, chilled
  • Lemon Lime soda, for serving

 Directions:

Prepare your sangria by first combining the wine and brandy in a large pitcher, and stir.

Next add the majority of the lime wheels, watermelon cubes, and fresh pineapple.

Place the remaining fruit pieces in the bottoms of your guests’ drinking glasses, and fill with ice.

Pour your finished sangria over ice, and top with lemon-lime soda for a little extra pop.

Serve!

Courtesy of: What the Fork

Mermaid Lemonade

Mermaids may be the stuff of tall tales, but this lovely, thirst-quenching lemonade definitely measures up to the myths. (Serves 4.)

Photo Courtesy of Ethan Calabrese

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup blue curacao
  • 1 cup white rum
  • Lemonade
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • Maraschino cherries, for garnish

 Directions:

For a fun drink that is as visually refreshing as it is delicious, first fill each of your glasses halfway with ice, then pour in a splash of blue curacao. 

Add 1/4 cup of rum, then top with more ice. 

Add lemonade, then garnish with a lemon slice and two cherries.

Courtesy of: delish.com

Grilled Peach Whiskey Smash

A southern-inspired indulgence, this fancy treat is sure to impress your guests this lake season.

Ingredients:

  • 1 small peach (or ½ of a large peach), pitted and quartered
  • 1/2 lemon
  • 2 fresh basil leaves (or 4 fresh mint leaves)
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 3 oz club soda, chilled

Directions:

For a warm, smoky flavor, place the peach and lemon slices on the grill and cook, covered, until golden brown, turning once. 

Combine the peaches and lemons, basil (or mint) and honey in a cocktail shaker. 

Muddle — crush and stir– the fruits and herbs to release their juices and aromas. 

Pour the bourbon and mixture over ice, cover and shake for 10 to 20 seconds. 

Strain your cocktail over a fresh glass of ice, and top with club soda before serving.  

Courtesy of: Better Homes & Gardens

Meyer Lemon Shandy

Pucker up for this summer classic combination. (Serves 4.)

Photo Courtesy of Lori Yates Photography

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 2 cups cold water
  • 3 Meyer lemons, juiced
  • 4 12-oz bottles of wheat beer

Directions:

Begin by bringing the sugar and the ½-cup of water to boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until dissolved. 

Let the mixture cool, then transfer the sugar-water to a pitcher and place in the refrigerator to chill into a syrup.

Combine this chilled syrup with fresh lemon juice, and add 2 cups of water. 

Stir lemonade into one bottle of beer in a chilled pint glass. 

Courtesy of: Foxes Love Lemons

For more taste bud-approved sips and spirits, check out these “5 Delicious Cocktails to Enjoy All Summer Long.”

5 Delicious Cocktail Recipes to Enjoy All Summer Long

Posted on Staff

various cocktails

Imagine this: the a sun is setting, and the breeze is blowing. The kids are in the water having a blast, and you’re sitting lakeside, sipping a tasty homemade cocktail and soaking it all in. Does it get any better than that?

Enjoying life is what lake lovers do best, and these five unique cocktail recipes are sure to add some flair to any sunny day.

Pink Lemonade Vodka Slush

Pink lemonade is a warm-weather classic. Just add some vodka, and you’ve got yourself a party.

Ingredients:

  • 1 gallon-size ice cream pail
  • 12 oz frozen pink lemonade concentrate (thawed)
  • 2 cups vodka
  • 2-liter bottle of citrus soda (Sprite, Squirt, etc.)

 Directions:

First, combine thawed pink lemonade concentrate, 2 cups of vodka and a 2-liter bottle of citrus soda in the ice cream pail.

Stir and freeze.

After it’s frozen, remove from the freezer an hour or two before you plan to serve it. Once it begins to thaw and melt, you can scrape the slush into a glass.

Now just top your drink with some extra soda, tonic or carbonated water, and sip away!

Courtesy of culinaryhill.com

Blueberry Mint Margarita

The sun’s beaming now, which means the fruits and berries should be in abundance in the produce section. Why not throw a few in your cocktail to make the ultimate sweet treat?

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup lime juice
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 2 Tbsps agave nectar
  • 1 Tbsp fresh mint, roughly chopped
  • 3 oz silver tequila
  • 1 oz triple sec
  • Sugar (for the rim)
  • 2 fresh mint sprigs
  • Splash of seltzer (optional)

Directions:

To begin, put lime juice, blueberries, agave and mint into a blender. Blend until smooth.

Then pour the blueberry mixture through a sieve (a wire or plastic frame used for straining solids from liquids) into a large glass. Press down on the solids to extract juice and then discard.

Next, run a slice of lime around the rim of two glasses. Then place sugar on a plate, and dip the moistened rims in the sugar to coat.

Fill those two glasses with ice.

In a large cocktail shaker, add your blueberry mixture, tequila and triple sec. Shake well.

After that, divide the drink evenly between the two glasses. Top with a splash of seltzer and garnish with mint.

Courtesy of virtuallyhomemade.com

Smashed Cherry Mule

Who doesn’t love a Moscow Mule? Since you’ll already be grabbing blueberries at the farmer’s market for that margarita, go ahead and snag some cherries while you’re at it! This bold drink is refreshing, colorful and full of flavor.

Materials:

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 4 fresh cherries
  • Ginger beer
  • Lime

Directions:

First, cut 4 cherries in half and remove the pits.

Then, in the bottom of your cup, mash the four cherries with the juice from half a lime.

Next, add vodka, ice and then top with ginger beer.

Garnish the drink with a lime slice and a fresh cherry.

P.S.—you can eat the cherries at the bottom of the cup when you’re done!

Courtesy of abeautifulmess.com

Grapefruit Blood Orange Cocktail

It’s the color of sunset and tastes like heaven. Whipping up this delight will only take five minutes of your time, and it’s worth every second.

Materials:

  • 1.5 oz vodka
  • 3 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • 3 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
  • 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lime juice

Directions:

Just pour all the ingredients into an ice-filled cocktail shaker and shake it well.

Then pour the mixture into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with a blood orange wedge.

Courtesy of wearenotmartha.com

Raspberry Lemon Drop Martinis

Last but not least, the ever-popular lemon drop. They simply scream summertime, and this fruity, colorful spin not only makes this cocktail yummy, but pretty.

Materials:

  • ¼ cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
  • 3-4 oz vodka
  • 4 Tbsps fresh lemon juice (plus lemon slices for garnish)
  • ¼ cup lemon lime soda
  • 4 Tbsps sugar

Directions:

First,  muddle your raspberries with sugar to create a raspberry puree. Press the mix through a sieve to remove seeds and release as much juice as possible.

After that, mix the raspberry puree, vodka, soda, lemon juice and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake well.

Garnish with lemon slice and raspberries.

Courtesy of realhousemoms.com

This lake season, stock your fridge with berries and tequila and give these tasty cocktail recipes a shot! They’re a delicious way to enjoy a summer day down by the water. Cheers!

5 Go To Burger Recipes for Summer Grilling

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

What is a barbeque without grilled hamburgers? Listed here are five amazing burger recipes that you can use to kick up the meal for the family and friends. From spicy to classic, these recipes will offer great tasting food that your guests are sure to enjoy.

To make it fun, you can always make it a burger sampler and competition. Reduce the recipes and make each type of burger into sliders, have everyone try each type, then find out which burger is the favorite!

1. Grilled Ketchup with Onions and Yellow Pepper

grilling burgers by the lakeSmoky, spicy and tangy, this great recipe offers a great-tasting burger that has a unique taste. The grilled bell peppers and onions add even more of a charred flavor to any burger.

Ingredients:

  • 3 Pounds of Roma Tomatoes – Cored, Halved
  • ½ Cup of Malt Vinegar
  • 4 tsp. of Salt
  • 2 tsp. of Spicy Pepper Sauce
  • 1 tsp. of Allspice
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick
  • 1 Medium Sized Onion – Cut into ½ inch Rounds, Separate Rings
  • 1 Yellow Bell Pepper – Cored, Seeded, Cut to ½ Inch Strips
  • 2 Tbsp. of Oil
  • 1 ½ pounds of Ground Beef
  • Pepper
  • 4 Buns

Directions:

  1. For the tomato ketchup, heat up the grill pan to a medium-high heat. Grill the tomatoes with the skin side down until it has dark grill lines. It will take about five minutes.
  2. Flip them over and cook for 10 minutes. Chop them to pieces.
  3. Transfer the tomatoes to a sauté pan. Stir in the sugar, vinegar, salt, allspice, bay leaf, spicy pepper sauce, and cinnamon stick.
  4. Sauté it until it is almost dry.
  5. For the burgers, sprinkle the onions and the peppers with ½ teaspoon of salt and toss it with 1 tablespoon of oil.
  6. Grill the onions and the peppers until they are charred and softened. Flip only once. It will take about six minutes.
  7. Cook the burgers and then top it with the ketchup and the onions.

2. Upscale Slider Burgers

These taste amazing and will leave people wanting more. This recipe is very easy to do and you will have an easy recipe that packs a great flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 6 Slices of Pancetta
  • 1 Pound of Ground Beef Sirloin
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 2 Tbsp. of Oil
  • 6 Slices of Gruyere
  • 6 Mini Buns – Toasted
  • 3 Tbsp. of Stone Ground Mustard
  • 6 Cornichons

Directions:

  1. Preheat your grill to 400 degree Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with some parchment paper, and then spread the pancetta slices on it. Bake until crisp. It will take about 10 minutes.
  2. Divide the beef into six portions and then into patties. Sprinkle it with salt and pepper.
  3. Oil the grill, and cook the patties for five to seven minutes on each side until it is done.
  4. Add the Gruyere slices on the patties. Cover them with the lid so that the cheese melts. Remove them from the grill.
  5. Assemble your burgers on the buns with the crisp pancetta.

3. Latin Macho Burger

If you like jalapenos, then you are going to love this burger. From onions and jalapenos to brown sugar and adobo seasoning, this burger offers a punch of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 12 Ounces of Ground Beef
  • 8 Ounces of Chorizo
  • 1 Tbsp. of Adobo Seasoning
  • 3 Large Yellow Onions – 1 Sliced Thin, 1 Grated
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • ½ Cup of Minced Jalapeno
  • ½ Cup of Brown Sugar
  • ¾ Cup of Mayonnaise
  • 2 Red Bell Peppers – Roasted
  • 6 Potato Rolls – Split
  • 6 Slices of Cheese

Directions:

  1. Mix the chorizo, beef, adobo, and the grated onion in a large mixing bowl. Form it into six patties. Refrigerate them for 30 minutes.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pan on medium-high heat. Add in the sliced onions and the salt and pepper. Add in the jalapeno peppers and the brown sugar. Sauté until the onions are completely caramelized. Make sure they are soft.
  3. Puree the mayo and the red peppers in a food processor or a blender until creamy. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat the grill on high. Grill your patties until they are cooked to desired degree.
  5. Spread about one tablespoon of red pepper sauce on both sides of the bread. Lay the burger on the half and then top it with the caramelized onions.

4. The Classic Burger

This is a recipe for those who want a simple, classic, cheeseburger. There is not much seasoning in the recipe so the focal point of the flavor is on the meat, so make sure you buy high quality 80/20 or 70/30 ground beef.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ Pounds of Ground Beef
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 1 ½ Tbsp. of Oil
  • 4 Slices of Cheese
  • 4 Buns – Split, Toasted
  • Burger toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayonnaise, mustard)

Directions:

  1. Divide your meat in 4 equal portions. Form patties from it. Push the middle down to form an indention. Season both of the sides of the burger with some salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the grill on high. Brush your burgers with the oil.
  3. Grill your burgers until it is brown.
  4. Add the cheese to the tops of the burgers on the last minute of them cooking to melt the cheese.

5. Cheese Stuffed Grill Burgers

Because you can never go wrong by adding more cheese to any recipe! This is another recipe in which not a lot of seasoning is needed, but on the inside you will find melty, cheesy, goodness!

Ingredients:

  • 2 Pounds of Ground Beef
  • 1 tsp. of Salt
  • ½ tsp. of Pepper
  • 8 Ounces of Cheese – Your Choice

Directions:

  1. Mix the beef with salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl and form it into 8 balls. Press the cube of cheese into the center of the balls.
  2. Cover the cheese with the meat.
  3. Form the balls into hamburger patties.
  4. Grill the burgers until they are done.

Grilling out and cooking burgers at the lake is an All-American tradition enjoyed by many every summer. Keep in mind that burgers are great blank canvases, so don’t be afraid to have fun and experiment with your own recipes!

Head out to the lake, and light up the grill with your friends and family this weekend! And while you’re at it, give some of these great summer cocktail recipes a try.