Everyone talks about visiting Cafe de Flore and Les Deux Magots in the rive gauche for the best literary cafe experience in Paris. But what with the growing lines outside just to get in and sit amongst the tourists, I would hardly say that you're going to recreate the days of Sartre and de Beauvoir by visiting those institutions. 

However, let me recommend Les Editeurs by the Odéon metro, just a short walk away, where you can sit amongst those discussing the latest titles on the literary prize shortlist and pick from the 5000 books on display. It's also where I would nurse a Hot Toddy, or the French equivalent of grog au rhum, when feeling a little under the weather in the dark winter evenings.

So, what better drink to create as part of our Winter Soirée collection of French macarons which you can buy online and have delivered in time to gift for Christmas?!

You can discover Hot Toddy macarons along with Bailey's and a Festive Martini flavour in our sparkling and extravagant designs. 

These set the scene nicely for New Year if you're looking to take a foodie gift for the hostess with the mostest. 

If these flavours have you lusting after the drinks themselves, we've come up with a few recipes for you to create the drinks for your winter soirée. 

Bon appétit, 

Rachel   x

Hot Toddy: The Classic Winter Warmer

Nothing beats a classic Hot Toddy when the temperature drops. It’s soothing, aromatic, and ideal for cozy chats by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 45ml of whisky (a single or double shot depending on preferences) 
• 1 tbsp honey
• 15ml fresh lemon juice 
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 200ml hot water
• Optional garnish: lemon wheel, cloves

How to Make It:

1. Add the whisky, honey, and lemon juice into a heatproof glass or mug.
2. Pour in the hot water and stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Add a cinnamon stick for extra flavor and garnish with a lemon wheel studded with cloves.
4. Serve immediately and let guests sip slowly for ultimate cosiness.

Festive Espresso Martini: The Ultimate Party Starter

Ingredients:

• 45ml vodka
• 30ml espresso (freshly brewed and cooled)
• 25ml coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
• 15ml sugar syrup
• Optional festive touch: pinch of cinnamon or grated nutmeg

How to Make It:

1. Add the vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until the shaker feels ice-cold, ensuring a frothy top.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive finish.

Baileys Delight: Creamy and Indulgent Perfection

Ingredients:

• 50ml Baileys Irish Cream
• 25ml vodka
• 25ml chocolate liqueur (optional for extra indulgence)
• Ice cubes
• Optional garnish: whipped cream, cocoa powder, or a mini candy cane

How to Make It:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the Baileys, vodka, and chocolate liqueur.
2. Shake gently and strain into a tumbler glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a candy cane for a festive touch.