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3 Home Bar Brewing Tips For Beginners

You finally have an amazing home bar and have been brushing up on your mixology skills. Now is the time to take it to the next level by brewing your own beer. Before you begin, you will need to stock your bar cabinets with the necessary tools and provisions, and you will need to know a few things that will set you on the right path. Here are a few home bar brewing tips for beginners to help encourage and inspire your journey.

Learn the tools of the trade from the beer making veterans.

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) offers simple steps to help you master the homebrewing process, including tutorials with topics that include small batch brewing and using specialty grains. You’ll also find some great homebrew recipes to try that include the four main ingredients in making beer — malt, hops, yeast and water. Here are the tools they recommend adding to your bar cabinets in order to brew at home:

Fermenter
Airlock & Bung
Brew Pot
Siphon/Tubing
Hydrometer
Unscented Dish Soap
Homebrew Sanitizers

You will also need a large liquid measuring cup, a strainer, spoons, and a calibrated thermometer that can withstand high temperatures. For more details on each of these items, click here.

Do your research before diving in.

According to Popular Mechanics, most people spend around $200 on homebrewing equipment and ingredients. Nothing too fancy, but still quite an investment. In their recent article, How to Make Beer at Home, they go in-depth on the process, from sanitizing everything and creating a starter wort, to making the mash and adding the grain. They also discuss the boil, cooling and pitching, and bottling your brew, as well as what to do if your first batch fails. It’s an insightful resource, but there are others as well. Before diving in head first, take the time to research, and connect with other homebrewers through online forums, groups and conventions.

Be Patient and stick with it.

Even with tried and true recipes, a wealth of research, and all the right equipment, there is always a learning curve when attempting to master a new skill or task. Homebrewing takes practice and mistakes will be made when trying to keep consistent temperatures and the occasional boil over. This is par for the course and even happens to experienced, professional brewers. Don’t get frustrated and don’t give up. Instead, be patient and stick with it. Once you sip your first success, you will be glad you did.

Know that you have some tips to get started, we are sure you will soon be on your way to inventing your own signature craft beer, whether it’s an ale, weizen, IPA, lager, shandy or porter. You may even want to try your hand at hard cider! Why not make the most of your home bar and give it a go? Cheers!

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, closet, TV room or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer all wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free, plus all the accessories needed to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

6 Fruity Boozy Popsicles To Enjoy At Home

With the weather warming up, we’re already thinking of ways to keep cool this summer. And since many of us are spending more hours at home, it’s the perfect time to peruse the bar cabinet, dust off what’s in your wine storage cabinet, and get creative in your home bar by making some boozy popsicles.

Many of your favorite summer cocktails can be transformed into fruity, boozy popsicles with just a few tweaks. Cool and refreshing, these sweet treats are a delicious way to beat the heat and unwind in your backyard or on the patio. Here are a few fabulous ideas.

1.Prosecco Pops

Pop a bottle of Prosecco, and celebrate the first day of summer by whipping up some fizzy popsicles. Sweet and sparkly, this easy recipe from Delish combines Prosecco, freshly squeezed lemonade, and your favorite summer berries. Place strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries in a popsicle mold, and then fill three quarters of the way with prosecco. Top it off with lemonade and freeze for at least six hours before serving.

2. Tinto de Verano Popsicles

Grab your favorite Spanish red from the wine storage cabinet, and make a batch of Tinto de Verano to freeze. Enjoyed during the summer in Spain, Tinto de Verano is a simple mix of red wine and lemon-lime soda. To make this quick cocktail into a palpable popsicle, Tracy of Baking Mischief recommends adding lime simple syrup. You may already keep this flavored syrup in your bar cabinet, but if not, you can make your own by combining sugar, water, and lime juice.

3. Boozy Rocket Pops

The red, white and blue rocket pop was probably a summer staple during your childhood years. Now you can recreate this classic popsicle with a boozy twist. This Boozy Rocket Pop recipe from Delish calls for raspberry sorbet, vanilla ice cream, blue curacao, and white rum. With three delicious layers, it’s a festive and flavorful pop that should definitely be served as part of your 4th of July menu.

4. Tequila + Watermelon Popsicles

No summer is complete without taking a bite into a juicy slice of watermelon. This mouth watering recipe from Love and Olive Oil combines fresh watermelon with tequila for a margarita-like dessert — hold the salt. A little sugar and splash of lime really enhance the flavors, giving this pop a sweet kick and making it the obvious choice for your next pool day.

5. Miami Vice Boozy Popsicles

You’ll imagine yourself serenely sailing along the ocean the second you taste these Miami Vice popsicles. By combining two of the most popular frozen cocktails, piña colada and strawberry daiquiri, the Miami Vice has become synonymous with cruise life. The popsicle version crafted by The Beach House Kitchen is close competition and makes it easy to recreate a relaxing vacation at home. With sweet strawberries, creamy coconut and tangy pineapple, this two layer popsicle is the ultimate fruity and boozy combo.

6. Vodka Gummy Bear Pops

Have you ever tried vodka gummy bears? What about vodka gummy bear pops? This idea from A Spicy Perspective may sound slightly reminiscent of your college days, but who doesn’t love a good throwback? Pour the vodka into a bowl, and then add in the gummy bears. Leave them in the refrigerator overnight, or for a couple of days, so that the vodka is almost entirely absorbed. In popsicle molds, freeze the vodka gummy bears and lemon-lime soda in layers, so that the gummy bears are equally distributed. The finished product is a colorful creation that is the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer all wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free, plus all the accessories needed to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

Impressive Christmas Main Course Ideas That Go Beyond Turkey

With Thanksgiving a near distant memory and a refrigerator full of leftovers, the last thing you want to think about is food — namely turkey. Don’t let Christmas dinner be a second “Turkey Day.” Make your holiday season a little bit brighter with these impressive main course ideas that go beyond turkey. So pour yourself a glass of wine from your home bar or wine storage cabinet, make yourself comfortable, and read on!

Beef Tenderloin

Roast beef is a winter staple, and melt-in-your-mouth whole tenderloin is the perfect choice for special occasions. This Peppercorn Beef Tenderloin from the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen would make a fine centerpiece to any holiday table. It features a rich and savory horseradish cream sauce, with dry vermouth from your home bar cabinets. Pink and green peppercorns and sprigs of rosemary add a festive touch to your holiday gathering. For the full recipe from Good Housekeeping, click here.

Ham

According to Bon Appétit, this Holiday Ham recipe will rival anything under the tree. Basted and baked with whole grain mustard and sweet Riesling from your wine storage cabinet, this seasonal favorite takes your ham game up a few notches. And while it looks and tastes impressive, it’s actually quite simple to make. For the recipe for Holiday Ham with Riesling and Mustard and a list of ingredients from Bon Appétit, click here.

Pork Loin

This cut of pork is lean and has a mild taste. By stuffing your pork loin with a mixture of chopped fresh herbs and garlic, you will not only add flavor from within, but also help to ensure a moist and tender roast (and an impressive main course) for your Christmas dinner. For a simple, east-to-follow recipe for Roasted Pork with Sage, Rosemary, and Garlic from Epicurious, click here.

Lamb

If you think Crown Roast of Lamb sounds fancy — it is! If you’re looking for a challenge and a truly gourmet Christmas dinner, this recipe from Food Network’s Alton Brown is sure to garner “oohs” and “ahhs” around the dining room table, thanks to its succulent blend of flavors and impressive presentation. Rich and savory, lamb is definitely not like turkey — not even close. For the recipe and instructional video from Food Network, click here.

Signature Winter Cocktails For A Spectacular Holiday Party

You’ve built the perfect bar for holiday entertaining, now it’s time to host your first party. Make it an evening to remember by offering a signature winter cocktail along with your standard pairings.

From spicy to sweet, here are a few of our favorite winter cocktails that are sure to make your holiday party spectacular.

Eggnog

Eggnog is synonymous with the holidays, so it seems only appropriate to serve up this classic cocktail. Made by mixing eggs, milk, and sugar with bourbon, this frothy and festive beverage will definitely bring holiday cheer to your home bar.

Eggnog can be a labor of love (you’ll need to pull out your stand mixer), so feel free to opt for a pre-made version if homemade isn’t feasible. Just remember to buy an extra bottle of bourbon for your home bar. Most store bought versions are alcohol free, and you’ll want to spike your eggnog before serving. Top off this festive favorite with a sprinkle of nutmeg and celebrate the season with your guests.

2. Sangria

Empty your wine storage cabinet and whip up a colorful pitcher of this Spanish punch. Holiday sangria has a hint of cinnamon, which makes it a great cocktail to serve during winter months. It’s deep red hue also gives it a festive flair.

To make a classic sangria, you’ll need a good spanish wine (like rioja or tempranillo), brandy, orange juice, sugar, club soda and fresh, seasonal fruit. To give it a holiday twist, add some cinnamon sticks and pomegranate seeds to your recipe. You can make your sangria the night before or morning of a party, so that the flavors can steep for a few hours before serving.

3. Brandy Alexander

Have you had this delicious brandy drink before? It calls for cognac, creme de cacao and cream. Your guests will love it because it’s creamy and slightly sweet. You’ll be a fan because it’s truly one of the easiest drinks to make.

Simply shake brandy, creme de cacao and cream with ice. Then strain into a glass and serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg. It’s a timeless winter cocktail that will give your holiday party a retro feel in the best way possible.

4. Peppermint Martini

There are a few different ways to make a peppermint martini, but all routes lead to a refreshing winter cocktail. This version on Allrecipes, recommends mixing vanilla flavored vodka with peppermint schnapps and creme de menthe. Smirnoff shares an easy recipe that combines their peppermint twist vodka with Baileys Original Irish Cream.

Whichever recipe you go with, always serve with a mini candy cane. It’s the perfect garnish for this cocktail and a fun treat for your guests.

5. Champagne Cocktail

There’s no better way to say cheers than with a glass of bubbly. But rather than just pouring your guests a glass of champagne, put together this easy champagne cocktail at your next holiday party.

This simple drink features champagne, bitters and a sugar cube. For something a little fancier, follow Martha Stewart’s instructions to replace the sugar cube with candied ginger.

And if you have a refrigerated wine storage cabinet in your home bar, keep a few extra bottles chilled. Champagne cocktails are always a crowd pleaser.

5 Thanksgiving Appetizers To Serve Before The Main Course

Dream kitchens are created for holiday hosting. Whether you’re serving a formal sit-down dinner at the dining room table or a casual buffet on your kitchen island, a good host always starts the evening with a few appetizers. The goal is to whet the appetites of your guests without spoiling it. Here are few of our favorite Thanksgiving appetizers to serve before the main course. Light and delicious, these festive party starters will surely leave them wanting more.

Sweet Potato Bites

We found this sweet recipe at Delish, and we can’t think of a better (or sweeter) way to start your Thanksgiving feast. A deconstructed, bite-sized version of the sweet potato casserole, this appetizer consists of sweet potatoes sliced into thick rounds and drizzled with melted butter, maple syrup, and a sprinkling of salt. Topped with one toasty marshmallow and a single pecan, these little morsels are too cute not to love. For the full recipe from Delish, click here.

Cheese Ball Bites

Another bite-sized version of a holiday staple, these mini Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball Bites will be your new dinner party favorite. For this easy to follow recipe from I Am Baker, click here. Fun to make and fun to eat, this poppable appetizer is packed with the savory flavors of cream cheese, Cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning, rolled with crispy bacon, fresh chives and chopped pecans. Serve with crackers or add a pretzel stick as an edible serving tool.

Cranberry Salsa

Chips and dip are a must on any appetizer menu. Salsa is a light and healthy choice when compared to heavy, creamy dips like spinach, crab, or asiago cheese. For Thanksgiving, give your homemade salsa a festive twist by swapping out whole cranberries and orange zest for tomatoes. Sweet and spicy, you’ll also need sugar, fresh cilantro and chopped jalapeno peppers. For the complete recipe from Taste of Home, click here.

Butternut Squash Tartlets

If you have a mini muffin tin and a food processor in your kitchen cabinets, you can make these adorable homemade tartlets that feature an autumn favorite — butternut squash. Topped with crumbled Feta cheese and finely chopped parsley, this appetizer looks impressive but is actually quite easy to make. For the recipe and step-by-step instructions from Good Housekeeping, click here.

Roasted nuts are also a great way to get the holiday dinner party started. Click here for Roasted Nut Recipes For Fall And Winter Snacking from our recent blog, and keep a few bowls on your kitchen island or home bar for holiday guests to enjoy. Happy hosting!

How to Design A Kitchen For Holiday Hosting

The holidays are all about celebrating family, friends and food — which means your kitchen is about to become the center of attention very soon. Get ahead of the last minute hustle and bustle, and start making the changes you need now so that you can focus on being the host with the most when your doorbell rings.

From how to maximize the space you have to the best tricks for organizing a kitchen pantry cabinet, here are some tips for designing a kitchen that can accommodate your guests this holiday season.

Install a kitchen island to create a better traffic flow while also increasing your storage and countertop space.

When your kitchen has only one place to enter and exit, you’re likely to encounter a traffic jam whenever you have company. By installing a kitchen island, you are actually able to create a second entryway and a more organized traffic flow.

Kitchen islands come in all shapes and sizes. There are even beautiful portable options and smaller kitchen carts available. Because of the extensive selection, you can easily find an option that fits perfectly into your kitchen.

The added bonus of a kitchen island is that it also increases your storage and countertop space. This is a lifesaver when your normal dinner party doubles or triples in size. You can use this area to set out food buffet style or allow guests to linger without crowding your prep space.

Create an organization system that cuts down on clutter and simplifies entertaining.

When you think of your dream kitchens, what is the one thing that none of them have?

Clutter.

Having a place for everything is crucial if you want to design a kitchen for entertaining. In other words — storage is king. It’s impossible to host during the holidays when it takes 20 minutes to find your vanilla extract or your countertops are completely covered.

There are so many ways you can set yourself up for organizational success when designing your kitchen. First is by making sure you have the right cabinets for your kitchen. Send your information over to our design team and we’ll create a custom layout for you that will be functional for your space.

From there, utilize inside cabinet accessories so that everything from your trays to your spices are organized and easy to find. When organizing a kitchen pantry cabinet, your best bet is to separate items by category. Some people prefer to organize by color or size, but when you organize by category, it simplifies grocery shopping and makes it much easier to find what you’re looking for. No stress for this host!

Build a home bar where guests can self-serve while you entertain.

A well designed home bar where guests can serve themselves is an amazing asset for any host. Not only does this reduce traffic in the main kitchen area, but it allows guests to truly feel at home.

The last thing a guest wants to do is constantly bother the host. By creating ways for guests to be autonomous and enjoy your offerings independently, there’s no need for you to be a helicopter host.

Most kitchen sizes can accommodate a home bar, and you don’t need a lot of space to build a great drink station. Even the smallest nook can be transformed into a fully functional wet bar that will take your next holiday party to a whole new level.

Entertaining Essentials For A Summer Home Bar

Summer is a prime season for entertaining at home. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or an evening cocktail party on the patio, these are the entertaining essentials for a summer home bar.

Summer Wines

Dream kitchens often include bar cabinets. But if you don’t have the space for a designated home bar, a kitchen island with a simple wine storage cabinet will do. Whether you have a large island in your kitchen or a portable cart, stock up on a lovely variety of crisp whites and smooth reds. Popular summer wines include Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Sangria, Pinot Grigio, and Merlot. Click here for 11 summer wines under $20 from Wine Enthusiast.

Signature Summer Cocktails

In addition to wine (and ice cold beer), you’ll want to make a signature summer cocktail for your get together with friends and neighbors. Summer favorites include margaritas, mojitos, and daiquiris. For frozen mixed drinks, use fresh seasonal fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, peaches, berries, cherries, lemons, and limes. You’ll also need to pull out that blender stored inside your bar cabinets. Other signature cocktails can be served ice cold and on the rocks, like this Limoncello Collins or Raspberry Caipirinha. Garnishing with fresh herbs from the garden, such as mint or basil, adds an additional summery touch.

Entertaining Essentials

Here are the items you’ll want to include in your bar cabinets this summer.

Glassware: Including shatterproof, BPA-free plastic for casual outdoor entertaining, like this set from Pottery Barn.

Juicer / Reamer: Perfect for squeezing the juice out of lemons and limes by hand like a pro.

Zester: Made for zesting said lemons and limes as a garnish.

Cocktail Shaker / Stirrers: A must-have for any home bar when mixing drinks served on the rocks.

Strainer: For smoother drinks that contain fruit and muddled herbs

Corkscrew: For opening bottles of summer wine.

Muddler: A necessity for making mojitos with fresh mint.

Pitchers / Beverage Dispensers: For holding and serving large batches of your signature summer cocktail.

Cocktail Napkins: In a fun and festive summer print.

Straws: Opt for environmentally friendly paper.

Why not make the most of the remaining few weeks of this summer season? Whether you prefer a casual cookout in the backyard on a sunny day or an evening cocktail party by the light of the moon, this handy entertaining guide will help you be the quintessential summer host.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer all wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!