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Spooky Sips and Snacks
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Spooky Sips and Snacks: Halloween Party Essentials

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re hosting a spooky bash or just want to elevate your family’s trick-or-treat night, this is the perfect time to start planning. You don’t need elaborate decorations or gourmet food to have a fun and memorable event. With a few spooky sips and snacks, you can create a festive atmosphere that’s sure to thrill your guests.

Here’s your guide to some Halloween party essentials that will keep your guests coming back for more. Get ready to make your celebration frightfully fun!

Creepy Cocktails and Festive Drinks

No Halloween party is complete without some spooky beverages. Whether you’re mixing up an adult potion or serving kid-friendly punch, these ideas are sure to be a hit:

  1. Witch’s Brew (Vodka + Lime Soda) For a simple and delicious adult beverage, mix vodka with lime soda. To give it a Halloween twist, add a splash of green food coloring to turn it into a glowing green “witch’s brew.” Serve in clear cups with plastic spiders hanging on the rim, and you’ve got a creepy cocktail perfect for any adult Halloween party.
  2. Blood Orange Punch This punch is a hit for both kids and adults. Mix blood orange juice with sparkling water for a refreshing drink. If you’re serving adults, add a splash of rum or vodka to give it a kick. To make it spooky, freeze plastic spiders or gummy worms in ice cubes and toss them into the punch bowl. The creepy creatures will slowly emerge as the ice melts!

3. Poisoned Apple Cider Apple cider is a fall favorite, and for Halloween, it becomes “poisoned” apple cider. Serve warm with cinnamon sticks or make a cold version by mixing apple cider with ginger ale. For an extra punch, throw in a shot of bourbon for adults. To make it look even spookier, use dry ice to give the drink a misty, witchy vibe.

4. Black Magic Mocktail For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, mix grape juice with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. Add a dash of black food coloring for a “black magic” look. Garnish with gummy eyeballs or a licorice straw, and you’ve got a deliciously eerie drink that everyone can enjoy.

Sinfully Good Snacks

After your guests have their drinks in hand, it’s time to wow them with some spooky snacks. These easy-to-make treats are as festive as they are delicious.

Ghost Pizza
  1. Mummy Dogs Take regular hot dogs and wrap them in crescent roll dough, leaving gaps to make them look like little mummies. Bake them until golden brown and add tiny dots of mustard or ketchup for eyes. These fun finger foods are perfect for kids and adults alike.
  2. Monster Popcorn Mix Make your own Halloween-themed popcorn mix by combining popped popcorn with pretzels, candy corn, and chocolate pieces. Add in gummy worms or eyeball-shaped candies for extra creepiness. This sweet and salty combo is an easy crowd-pleaser.
  3. Ghostly Pizza Make your favorite pizza and use mozzarella cheese cut into ghost shapes for a fun Halloween twist. Top it with black olives for eyes, and you’ve got a spooky pizza that’s easy to make and delicious to eat!
  4. Graveyard Dirt Cups For a dessert that will impress your guests, create “dirt cups” using chocolate pudding topped with crushed Oreos. Add gummy worms, candy bones, or a cookie shaped like a tombstone to create a mini graveyard scene. Not only do they look great, but they’re also irresistibly tasty.
Spooky

Party Tips and Tricks

In addition to your spooky sips and snacks, here are a few extra tips to make your Halloween party a success:

Decorate with simplicity: You don’t need over-the-top decorations to create a spooky vibe. A few string lights, fake spider webs, and plastic spiders can instantly transform your space into a haunted house.

Set up a candy bar: Fill bowls with different types of Halloween candy for guests to snack on or take home. It doubles as a decoration and a treat station.

Create a photo booth: Set up a Halloween-themed photo booth with props like witch hats, vampire teeth, and skeleton masks. Your guests will love taking spooky selfies to remember the night.

Ready to Party?

With these spooky sips, snacks, and simple tricks, your Halloween party will be a hit! From creepy cocktails to sinfully delicious snacks, you’ve got everything you need to keep your guests entertained and full. Just add a dash of Halloween spirit, and let the fun begin!

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Fall Flavors: Irresistible Recipes and Treats for September

As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in and the leaves start to turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, it’s the perfect time to embrace the cozy and comforting flavors of fall. September is the gateway to the season of pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, and hearty comfort foods. Whether you’re looking to update your menu with seasonal recipes or just want to indulge in some fall-themed treats, here’s a roundup of must-try fall flavors and recipes to celebrate the start of the season.

Pumpkin Spice Everything

When it comes to fall flavors, pumpkin spice is the reigning champion. It’s the quintessential autumn flavor that makes everything feel warm and cozy. Start your day with a homemade pumpkin spice latte or add a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice to your morning coffee. For a more substantial treat, try making pumpkin spice muffins or pumpkin bread. These recipes are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Recipe Idea: Pumpkin Spice Muffins

  • Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, ¼ tsp salt, 1 cup canned pumpkin, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  • Instructions: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fill muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Apple Cinnamon Delights

Apple Pie

Apple cinnamon is another fall flavor that’s hard to resist. The combination of tart apples and sweet cinnamon creates a comforting aroma and taste that’s perfect for September. Consider making apple cinnamon pancakes for a delightful breakfast or bake a classic apple pie to share with loved ones. Apple cinnamon rolls are also a fantastic option for a sweet treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee.

Recipe Idea: Classic Apple Pie

  • Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup unsalted butter, 1/3 cup sugar, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, 6 cups peeled and sliced apples, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp lemon juice.
  • Instructions: Preheat oven to 425°F. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Roll out half of the dough and fit it into a pie dish. In another bowl, toss apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Pour filling into the crust. Roll out the remaining dough and place over the filling. Seal edges and cut slits for steam to escape. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.

Hearty Fall Soups

Fall is the ideal time to enjoy hearty soups that warm you from the inside out. Think creamy butternut squash soup, savory beef stew, or a spicy chili. These dishes are not only comforting but also perfect for meal prepping. Serve your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side of homemade cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Recipe Idea: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

  • Ingredients: 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup coconut milk, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp ground cumin, salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add butternut squash and cumin, and cook for a few minutes. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until squash is tender. Blend soup with an immersion blender or in batches until smooth. Stir in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and heat through before serving.

Fall-Themed Snacks

For those moments when you need a quick snack to satisfy your fall cravings, consider making some fall-themed treats. Apple cinnamon chips, pumpkin seeds, or caramel popcorn are easy to prepare and perfect for snacking. They also make great additions to any autumn gathering or as a fun treat for kids after school.

Carmel Popcorn

Recipe Idea: Homemade Caramel Popcorn

  • Ingredients: 12 cups popped popcorn, 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, ¼ cup light corn syrup, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp baking soda, 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  • Instructions: Preheat oven to 250°F. Place popcorn in a large bowl. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt, and bring to a boil. Boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla. Pour caramel over popcorn and mix well. Spread popcorn on a baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.

Cozy Fall Drinks

Embrace the fall season with cozy drinks that warm you up. Besides the classic pumpkin spice latte, consider trying a hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks or a spiced hot chocolate. These beverages are perfect for enjoying on a chilly evening or while snuggled up with a good book.

Recipe Idea: Spiced Hot Chocolate

  • Ingredients: 2 cups milk, ¼ cup cocoa powder, ½ cup sugar, ¼ cup water, ¼ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
  • Instructions: In a saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and heat until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract before serving.

With these delicious recipes and ideas, you’re all set to embrace the flavors of fall and enjoy everything that September has to offer. From comforting soups to sweet treats and cozy drinks, Crossroads knows that with these fall-inspired delights you are sure to make the transition into autumn a tasty one!

Summer Bucket List
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End-of-Summer Bucket List: 8 Must-Do Activities Before Summer Ends

As summer draws to a close, it’s time to squeeze in all the fun you can before the season fades away. Whether you’re looking for new adventures or a way to savor summer nostalgia, this bucket list is packed with unique ideas to make your final days of summer unforgettable. Here are eight of the best activities to end the summer on a high note!

Stargazing Picnic

Combine a love for food and the night sky with a stargazing picnic. Grab a blanket, pillows, and a basket of your favorite snacks, and find a cozy spot away from city lights. As the stars come out, enjoy a peaceful evening under the sky, and see how many constellations you can spot. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the warm summer nights.

Drive-In Movie Night

Take a nostalgic trip to a drive-in movie or create your own outdoor cinema at home. All you need is a projector, some lawn chairs, and a cozy setup. Load up on popcorn, candy, and drinks for the ultimate movie experience under the stars. It’s a simple yet magical way to spend an evening with friends or family.

Kayak or Paddleboard Adventure

Get active and cool off with a kayak or paddleboard adventure! Whether you’re exploring a local lake or river, this activity is a fantastic way to enjoy the water and the sunshine. Plus, it’s a great workout that doesn’t feel like exercise. Pack some waterproof snacks and drinks to keep you energized on your journey

Sunrise Hike

Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise. Set your alarm early and head out on a hike to a scenic viewpoint. Watching the sunrise from a beautiful vantage point is not only refreshing but also a great way to reflect on the summer memories you’ve made. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of coffee or tea to enjoy as the sun comes up!

Backyard Camping

Transform your backyard into a mini campsite for a fun night outdoors. Pitch a tent, string up some fairy lights, and enjoy all the fun of camping without leaving home. Roast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and sleep under the stars—it’s the perfect way to have an adventure right at home.

DIY Ice Cream Sundae Bar

Beat the heat with a DIY ice cream sundae party! Set up a sundae bar with various ice cream flavors, toppings, and sauces, and let everyone create their own sweet masterpiece. This is a fun and delicious way to enjoy one of summer’s best treats while getting creative in the kitchen.

Food Truck Crawl

Take your taste buds on an adventure with a food truck crawl! Explore your local food truck scene by sampling different cuisines, from tacos to ice cream, as you make your way through the city. It’s a fun way to support local businesses and try something new before summer ends.

Sunset Photography Session

Capture the beauty of summer with a sunset photography session. Find a scenic spot, bring your camera or smartphone, and snap away as the sun sets. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or just looking to capture some memories, the golden hour light will make your photos look magical.

There you have it—eight must-do activities to make the most of the final days of summer. Whether you’re exploring new places, enjoying time with loved ones, or simply soaking up the season’s last rays, these ideas will help you create memories that will last long after the summer ends.

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Fun and Easy Summer Picnic Ideas

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors, and what better way to do that than with some delightful picnic ideas? Whether you’re planning a cozy outing for two or a fun gathering with friends and family, a well-prepared picnic can turn an ordinary day into a memorable adventure. Here’s your guide to planning a fun and easy summer picnic with all the essentials.

Picking the Perfect Spot

Choosing the right location sets the tone for your picnic. Look for a local park (Almer Township Darbee Park), a serene beach (Buttercup Beach), or even your backyard. Ensure the spot has some shade to keep cool and a scenic view to enjoy while you munch. If you’re in for a bit of exploration, try finding a new spot you’ve never visited before. The element of discovery adds a dash of adventure to your picnic.

picnic ideas

Picnic Essentials Checklist

Before you head out, make sure you have all the essentials. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything important:

Delicious and Easy Picnic Foods

Food is the star of any picnic. For a simple yet satisfying spread, consider bringing:

  • Sandwiches and wraps: Easy to make and pack, they are picnic staples.
  • Pizza and wings: Grab a pizza or some delicious wings from Crossroads. They’re a hit with everyone and eliminate the need for extensive prep work.
  • Snacks: Load up on chips, pretzels, and nuts. These are easy to transport and can satisfy all your cravings.
  • Candy: Don’t forget to bring some sweet treats. Candy is easy to pack and provides a quick sugar boost for those active picnic games.

Refreshing Beverages

Staying hydrated is key, especially on a hot summer day. Here are some beverage ideas to keep you cool:

  • Soda and pop: Classic choices that are easy to transport.
  • Bottled water: Essential for staying hydrated.
  • Juice boxes: Perfect for kids and those who prefer something fruity.
  • Alcoholic beverages: For the adults, bring a selection of beers or pre-mixed cocktails.

Sweet Treats and Desserts

No picnic is complete without a few sweet treats. Along with candy, consider bringing:

  • Brownies and cookies: Easy to pack and always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Fruit: Fresh fruit like apples, grapes, and berries are refreshing and easy to eat on the go.

Fun Picnic Activities

A picnic isn’t just about the food; it’s also about the fun! Here are a few activity ideas to keep everyone entertained:

  • Frisbee or catch: Simple games that get everyone moving.
  • Card games or board games: Perfect for a bit of friendly competition.
  • Music: Bring a portable speaker to enjoy some tunes while you relax.

Tips for Keeping Food Fresh

To ensure your food stays fresh and safe to eat:

  • Use ice packs: Keep your cooler or insulated bag chilled.
  • Choose non-perishable items: Items that don’t spoil quickly are ideal for picnics.

Final Touches

Add some special touches to make your picnic extra memorable:

  • Flowers: A small bouquet can brighten up your picnic spot.
  • Decor: Fairy lights or a stylish picnic blanket can enhance the ambiance.

Conclusion

With these tips and essentials, you’re ready to plan the perfect summer picnic. Gather your friends and family, pack your favorite foods and drinks, and head out for a day of fun in the sun. Enjoy the warm weather, good company, and delicious treats that make summer picnics so special. Happy picnicking!

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The Ultimate “Going Up North” Packing List

The Ultimate “Going Up North” Packing List

Summer is the perfect time for a trip “up north,” whether you’re heading to a cabin in the woods, a campsite by the lake, or just enjoying the scenic drives and quaint towns along the way. To ensure you have everything you need for the ultimate northern adventure, we’ve put together the ultimate packing list.

Road Trip Essentials

  • Snacks: Keep everyone satisfied with a variety of road trip snacks like chips, granola bars, candy, and trail mix.
  • Drinks: Stay hydrated with bottled water, soda, and energy drinks. Don’t forget a thermos of coffee for those early morning starts!
  • Cooler and Ice: Keep your perishables fresh and your drinks cold with a reliable cooler and plenty of ice.

Camping and Cabin Gear

  • Firewood: Essential for campfires and keeping warm on those chilly northern nights.
  • S’mores Supplies: Grab graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate for the most delicious camping treat.
  • Camping Gear: Don’t forget the tents, sleeping bags, lanterns, and bug spray to keep comfortable and safe.

Lake Day Necessities

  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin with our selection of sunscreens, perfect for long days on the water.
  • Beach Towels and Chairs: Lounge in style with comfy beach towels and portable chairs.
  • Coolers for Drinks and Snacks: Keep your snacks and drinks cool with our portable coolers. Perfect for a picnic by the lake.

Fun and Games

  • Outdoor Games: Bring along frisbees, beach balls, and playing cards to keep everyone entertained.
  • Fishing Gear: If you’re planning on fishing, don’t forget your fishing rods, tackle, and bait.

Evening Enjoyment

  • Beer and Alcohol: Stock up on your favorite beers, including Busch, Bud Light, Sam Adams, and Ultra, plus liquor for cocktails.
  • Bug Spray: Keep those pesky bugs at bay with effective bug spray.
  • Blankets and Pillows: Make sure you have plenty of cozy blankets and pillows for those cool northern nights.
packing

Safety and Comfort

  • First Aid Kit: Always be prepared with a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptics, and pain relievers.
  • Flashlights and Batteries: Make sure you have plenty of light for those nighttime adventures.

Heading up north is all about relaxation, adventure, and creating unforgettable memories. With this ultimate packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for anything your trip throws at you.

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Your Ultimate Summer Night Guide

As the sun stays out longer and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a crackling fire and indulging in the simple pleasures of summer. At Crossroads, we’re here to help you make the most of those warm summer nights with our array of firewood and bonfire essentials.

Get ready to shake things up this summer with our homemade cocktail creations! These refreshing libations are sure to elevate your outdoor gatherings to new heights of enjoyment.

5 Homemade Cocktail Options for a Cookout:

Classic Margarita:

Perfect for sipping by the pool or pairing with spicy barbecue dishes.

    • Tequila 
    • Triple sec
    • Lime Juice
    • Salt for rimming

Watermelon Mint Cooler:

A refreshing and fruity option that’s sure to be a hit on a hot summer day.

    • Watermelon
    • Mint Leaves
    • Vodka
    • Lime Juice
    • Simple Syrup

Berry Mojito:

Bursting with fresh berry flavor and a hint of mint, this cocktail is both vibrant and delicious.

    • Fresh berries of your choice
    • Mint leaves
    • White rum
    • Lime juice
    • Simple syrup
    • Soda

Paloma:

Light, citrusy, and oh-so-refreshing, the Paloma is the ultimate warm-weather sipper.

    • Tequila 
    • Grapefruit juice
    • Lime juice
    • Simple syrup
    • Soda

Peach Bourbon Smash:

Sweet, juicy peaches meet smooth bourbon in this delightful summertime cocktail.

    • Fresh peaches
    • Bourbon
    • Lemon juice
    • Simple syrup 
    • Soda

S'mores!

But what’s a bonfire without the quintessential summer treat – s’mores? Get ready to embark on a gooey, marshmallowy adventure with our delightful selection of s’mores! Perfect for kids of all ages, these classic treats are guaranteed to bring smiles and giggles to your summer evenings. Let your little ones unleash their creativity as they explore different variations of this beloved campfire staple:

  • Classic S’more: A timeless combination of Graham crackers, marshmallow, and milk chocolate.
  • Reese’s S’more: Upgrade your s’more game by swapping out the milk chocolate for a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup.
  • Double Chocolate S’more: Indulge your chocolate cravings with chocolate Graham crackers, chocolate hazelnut spread, and a marshmallow.
  • Minty S’more: Refresh your palate with a layer of mint chocolate in your s’more.
  • Caramel Delight S’more: Get extra gooey with caramel-filled chocolate squares or caramel candies.

As the sun sets and the stars come out to play, there’s no better way to cap off a summer evening than with a crackling bonfire and a plate full of perfectly roasted marshmallows. Whether you’re indulging in a classic s’more or experimenting with new flavor combinations, the joy of gathering around the fire with loved ones is unparalleled.

So, as you plan your summer adventures and cookouts, remember to swing by Crossroads for all your bonfire essentials. From firewood to marshmallows, we’ve got everything you need to make your summer gatherings a roaring success. Here’s to good food, great company, and endless summer nights filled with laughter and memories. Cheers to a summer filled with s’more fun!

pizza
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Embracing Community Spirit with Pizza: A Slice of Crossroads

At Crossroads, we’ve recently introduced something that’s been stirring up quite a buzz: pizza! While it’s still a new addition to our offerings, it’s quickly become a favorite among our customers.

"We have been happy to serve the community good quality pizza. We saw a need for high-quality pizza, and we are thankful we were able to provide that."

Garfield Teddy

From the very beginning, our goal was to offer pizza that stood out in terms of taste and quality. Every ingredient that goes into our pizzas is carefully selected to ensure the best possible flavor and value for our customers.

We’re excited to share that we have personally delivered our pizza to local schools and businesses, where people are really enjoying the new addition. It has been a great way to spread the word about the new addition to Crossroads. Not only have we loved to see our pizza make its way into local events and gatherings, we have also enjoyed serving our customers in store. We’re thrilled to hear the positive feedback from the community and to see familiar faces returning for more.

Adding pizza to our menu wasn’t just about expanding our offerings—it was about providing our customers with a delicious option that they can enjoy time and time again. And with our commitment to quality ingredients and top-notch service, we’re confident that our pizza will continue to be a hit for years to come. So the next time you’re craving a slice of something delicious, stop by Crossroads and taste the difference for yourself!

pizza

Drink Recipes for March​

Welcome to March, where we’re shaking things up with a delightful array of specialty drinks available at Crossroads! Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving a refreshing sip, we’ve got you covered with these tantalizing cocktail recipes made with ingredients you can find right here in our store. Get ready to elevate your drinking experience with these easy-to-make concoctions that are sure to impress!

Irish Coffee Martini Recipe:

Ingredients

Instructions:

  • Fill a shaker with ice and add the Irish whiskey, coffee liqueur, Irish cream liqueur, and chilled brewed coffee.
  • Shake well until chilled.
  • Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
  • Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
  • Enjoy your Irish Coffee Martini!

Winter Bourbon Smash Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz maple syrup
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 4-5 fresh blackberries
  • Ice
  • Club soda (optional)
  • Blackberries and thyme sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions:

  • In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries and thyme sprigs.
  • Add bourbon, maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and ice to the shaker.
  • Shake well until thoroughly chilled.
  • Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  • If desired, top with a splash of club soda for some fizz.
  • Garnish with blackberries and a sprig of thyme.
  • Sip and savor the delicious flavors of your Winter Bourbon Smash!

Spiked Hot Chocolate Recipe:

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  • Prepare hot chocolate according to package instructions and pour it into a mug.
  • Add Irish cream liqueur and chocolate liqueur to the hot chocolate.
  • Stir gently to combine.
  • Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
  • Curl up with your Spiked Hot Chocolate and enjoy the cozy warmth!

Celebrate March with these irresistible specialty drinks from Crossroads! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Irish Coffee Martini, a refreshing Winter Bourbon Smash, or a comforting Spiked Hot Chocolate, we’ve got the ingredients you need to craft the perfect cocktail. Visit us today and let’s shake up some deliciousness together! Cheers to unforgettable sips and memorable moments!