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Christmas at Gaylord Palms: ICE!, Holiday Events, and Festive Things To Do

November 14th, 2018April 2nd, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Planning a holiday visit to Gaylord Palms in Orlando? Discover ICE!, snow tubing, Christmas shows, Santa visits, and festive activities during Christmas at Gaylord Palms.

Christmas at Gaylord Palms: ICE!, Holiday Events, and Festive Things To Do

If you’re looking for one of the most magical holiday experiences in Florida, Christmas at Gaylord Palms in Orlando should absolutely be on your list.

Yes… we may live in Florida where palm trees outnumber pine trees, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a true winter wonderland. Every year, Gaylord Palms Resort transforms into a festive holiday destination filled with sparkling lights, Christmas shows, family activities, and the famous ICE! attraction.

And let me tell you – stepping into ICE! when it’s nine degrees inside while it’s sunny and 75 outside is a pretty unforgettable Florida holiday experience.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a festive overnight stay, here’s everything you need to know about celebrating Christmas at Gaylord Palms Resort.

What Is Christmas at Gaylord Palms?

Each year from mid-November through early January, Gaylord Palms hosts a massive holiday celebration featuring:

The famous ICE! sculpture experience
Snow tubing on real snow
Holiday stage shows
Christmas light displays
Photos with Santa
Gingerbread decorating
Seasonal dining and cocktails
Family-friendly holiday activities throughout the resort

The entire resort – including the beautiful glass atriums – is decorated with millions of lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive displays.

It truly feels like stepping into a Christmas village.

ICE! at Gaylord Palms

The highlight of the holiday celebration is the famous ICE! attraction.

This immersive experience features more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, all created by master artisans from Harbin, China (home of the world’s largest ice festival).

Inside the attraction, temperatures are kept at a chilly 9 degrees Fahrenheit, and guests are provided with cozy blue parkas to stay warm.

Each year the exhibit features a different holiday theme, with massive colorful ice sculptures recreating scenes from beloved Christmas stories and movies. Guests walk through beautifully carved rooms filled with glowing ice displays, tunnels, and larger-than-life characters.

One of the biggest highlights?
The two-story ice slides, where kids and adults can zoom down slides made entirely from ice.

At the end of the experience, guests also pass through a peaceful Nativity scene carved from crystal-clear ice, which is always stunning.

Best Gaylord Palms ICE Event Information

Snow Tubing in Florida (Yes, Really!)

Another favorite activity during Christmas at Gaylord Palms is snow tubing.

Outside in the Alpine Village area, guests can race down a multi-lane tubing hill covered in real snow. It’s fast, fun, and honestly one of those things that makes you laugh because you’re tubing in the middle of Florida.

Both kids and adults can ride, and there are single and double tubes available, making it a great family activity.

Alpine Village Holiday Activities

The festive Alpine Village area is the central hub for holiday fun at Gaylord Palms.

Here you’ll find:

Seasonal food and holiday treats
Photos with Santa
Gingerbread decorating stations
Holiday shopping and souvenirs
Interactive games and family activities

Kids especially love decorating gingerbread houses and cookies – it’s messy, creative, and a perfect holiday memory.

Holiday Shows and Entertainment

Throughout the Christmas season, Gaylord Palms hosts live holiday performances and entertainment.

One of the most popular shows is Cirque-style holiday performances, which combine acrobatics, music, and theatrical storytelling for a festive show the whole family will enjoy.

There are also:

Christmas storytelling events
Interactive holiday performances
Sing-alongs and seasonal music
Special appearances from holiday characters

Check the daily schedule when you arrive because there are usually several performances throughout the day and evening.

Christmas Light Displays at Gaylord Palms

One of my favorite parts of visiting during the holidays is simply walking through the resort’s atriums.

Gaylord Palms has three stunning glass atriums designed to represent Florida landscapes:

St. Augustine
Key West
The Everglades

During the holidays, these spaces are transformed with giant Christmas trees, themed decorations, and synchronized light shows.

At night, the towering Christmas tree becomes the centerpiece of a beautiful holiday light show with music and dancing lights.

It’s the perfect place to stroll, take photos, and soak up the holiday spirit.

Photos With Santa

Of course, no Christmas celebration is complete without a visit with Santa.

Guests can meet Santa Claus in Alpine Village for photos and holiday wishes. Reservations are sometimes recommended during busy weekends, so check availability ahead of time.

Kids love sharing their Christmas lists, and the festive photo setup makes for a great holiday memory.

Dining During Christmas at Gaylord Palms

There are several dining options inside the resort, and many restaurants offer special holiday menus and seasonal dishes during the Christmas celebration.

One of the most popular options is Villa de Flora, which often hosts festive buffet meals and seasonal character breakfasts during the holidays.

You’ll also find holiday snacks, hot cocoa, cocktails, and sweet treats available throughout Alpine Village.

Should You Stay Overnight?

While you can absolutely visit Christmas at Gaylord Palms for the day, staying overnight adds a little extra magic.

Overnight packages often include:

ICE! tickets
Early access to certain attractions
Holiday experiences
Resort amenities

Plus, the resort is absolutely beautiful at night once the crowds thin out and the lights are glowing.

If you’re planning a holiday staycation near Tampa or Orlando, it’s a wonderful option.

Tips for Visiting Christmas at Gaylord Palms

A few helpful tips if you’re planning a visit:

Buy tickets early. ICE! and snow tubing often sell out on weekends.

Dress in layers. It may be warm outside, but it’s truly freezing inside the ICE! attraction.

Arrive early. The resort gets busy, especially in December.

Allow several hours. There’s a lot to see and do throughout the property.

Bring your camera. The decorations and ice sculptures are incredible photo opportunities.

Is Christmas at Gaylord Palms Worth It?

Absolutely.

Christmas at Gaylord Palms is one of the most unique holiday experiences in Florida. Between the ice sculptures, holiday lights, shows, and festive activities, it’s a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit – even when you’re surrounded by palm trees.

It’s fun for kids, adults, and honestly anyone who loves Christmas.

If you’re looking for a magical Florida holiday tradition, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.

FAQ: Christmas at Gaylord Palms

How long does ICE! at Gaylord Palms take?
Most guests spend about 30–45 minutes exploring the ICE! attraction.

Is ICE! cold inside?
Yes! The temperature is kept around 9 degrees Fahrenheit, but guests are provided with warm parkas.

When does Christmas at Gaylord Palms run?
The holiday celebration typically runs from mid-November through early January each year.

Can you visit Gaylord Palms without staying overnight?
Yes! Day tickets are available for ICE! and other holiday attractions.

Learn more about the resort at GaylordPalms.com and stay connected with all the resort happenings by following along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Be sure to check out all my travel tips and follow along on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for more adventures.

An Introduction To Cabernet Franc

November 14th, 2018May 31st, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Cabernet Franc is a black-skinned grape that is principally grown for blending with other red wines. The result is an excellent medium-bodied red wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

An Introduction To Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is a wine black grape variety that is grown throughout the world and is believed to have originated in southwest France. It is clearly overshadowed in terms of area planted and production by the bigger and bolder varietal, Cabernet Sauvignon. This medium-bodied red wine does not figure prominently in recognized great wines.

The wine is known for it’s savory, bell pepper flavors and a medium to high acidity. This black grape is mainly grown for blending, you will typically see it in Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the Bordeaux style.

Cabernet Franc tends to be a slightly lighter colored wine with lower tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon. This varietal of wine tends to be a bit fruitier, you will find the aromas of strawberry and sometimes plum mixed in with an earthy element. It does pair well with a variety of dishes, however perhaps it is better suited to lunch than to a heavy roast dinner.

Cabernet Franc In France

This variety is used in two major areas of France and plays a different role in each of them. In the Bordeaux region, it is used principally as blending material with (mainly) Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Chateau Cheval Blanc at St-Emilion makes the most highly regarded Cabernet Franc dominated wine in the Bordeaux region.

In their middle of the Loire Valley, Cabernet Franc is prominent in two appellations – Chinon and Bourguiel. These wines are often varietal Cabernet Franc, but some may contain up to 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. Wines from both of these regions tend to be light to medium-bodied, and most are better consumed within a few years of vintage. Rose style wines are also produced in the Loire Valley.

Cabernet Franc in Italy

The variety is quite popular in Italy, particularly in the northeastern regions such as Friuli. There are some suggestions that some Italian vineyards previously believed to be Cabernet Franc may, in fact, be Carmenere, another Bordeaux variety. Cabernet Franc is used for varietal wines and for blending in these regions.

Cabernet Franc in the United States

In the US, the variety is grown mainly as blending material. It is often used in Meritage, a Bordeaux style blend made in California, which is gaining popularity.

In cooler regions such as Washington State, New York State, and also in Canada, winemakers are turning to Cabernet Franc because it ripens more reliably in cooler vintages. You can also find Cabernet Franc in several Michigan wineries.

Cabernet Franc in Australia

The variety is generally used as blending material in Australia. The wide variety used to blend with Cabernet Sauvignon in Australia is Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and Malbec sometimes included. Wines made from the two Cabernet varieties are sometimes labeled simply “cabernets.”

Western Australian wineries have had a history of making varietal Cabernet Franc wines. Happs, Redgate, and Woodlands are three wineries in the Margaret River Region who have produced outstanding varietals. Over recent years varietal Cabernet Franc has been growing in popularity in many other regions of Australia, but it is still relatively uncommon. Vinodiversity has a list of Australian wineries making varietal Cabernet Franc.

Cabernet Franc in Other regions

Cabernet Franc is attracting interest in Eastern Europe, South America, and New Zealand.

This lighter style red wine isn’t as popular as Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, but it is still a beautiful medium-bodied red wine that is worth a try.

Have you had Cabernet Franc? Which brand is your favorite?

Be sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more wine tips, cocktails, healthy recipes, and fun things to do.

Tangy Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Wings

November 13th, 2018January 24th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Your friends and family are going to love these Slow Cooker Tangy Cranberry Chicken Wings! This delicious slow cooker chicken wing recipe is easy to prep and loaded with flavor. While this post is sponsored by Silver Spring Foods, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Tangy Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Wings

What’s better than chicken wings when you are entertaining? Chicken wings that are tangy, sweet, delicious and…EASY to make! Bonus points if you can toss them in the slow cooker and forget about them. Wait! That’s exactly what this recipe is 😉 I love Fall, and even though we don’t cool down all that much here in Florida I still love all of the fun stuff that comes with the season. Football. Homegating. Entertaining. Pumpkin Spice. Apples. Cranberries. Gimme all the yummy food and time with friends and family, because that is exactly what fall is all about. Well, that and these Slow Cooker Tangy Cranberry Chicken Wings.

To make these Crockpot Tangy Cranberry Chicken Wings, you only need about 15 minutes of prep time to season the chicken wings and make the tangy sauce. Once the sauce is made, you add the seasoned chicken wings to the slow cooker and top them with your homemade tangy cranberry sauce then let the slow cooker do the rest.

Once your wings are done, you can crisp then up in the oven on broil and top with some of the remaining sauce from the crock pot for a nice sticky glaze.

Once the broiling is done and that extra glaze is on, you will have the best finger-licking chicken wings you have ever tasted! And when your guests ask for them every time you host a gathering or you head to a friend’s house for a party, the good news is that they are pretty easy to make. But you don’t have to tell them that 😉

What gives these chicken wings their tasty “zing” is the Silver Spring Foods … and … I love that they are so versatile, both can be easily used in recipes but also as dips for some of your other favorite game day eats. I can’t wait to try the Cranberry Horseradish with meatballs and the Beer’n Brat Horseradish Mustard on my brother’s homemade brats. It’s no secret that I like adding a bit of heat to my cooking, so Silver Spring Foods products are an obvious find in my refrigerator. Why Silver Spring Foods? Because they are Family-owned and the world’s largest grower and processor of horseradish, so they must know what they are doing 😉

Now, here is my Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Wings recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make them again and again. Because you will want too. Promise.

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Tangy Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Wings

These Tangy Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Wings will be a hit at your next gathering! Grab this easy recipe and enjoy them with friends and family.

Prep Time20

Cook Time4 30

Total Time4 50

Course: Appetizer, Dinner

Keyword: chicken, cranberry, crock pot, slow cooker

Author: Tracy

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Ingredients

4 1/2 - 5 lbs raw chicken wings
Salt and pepper

Sauce Ingredients

1/3 cup Silver Spring Foods Cranberry Horseradish
1 tablespoon Silver Spring Beer'n Brat Horseradish mustard
1 can 14 ounces jellied cranberry sauce
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon minced garlic
4 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water

For Serving

1 tablespoon diced green onion for garnish if desired
Remainder of jar Silver Spring Foods Cranberry Horseradish for dipping

US Customary - Metric

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Instructions

Spray Slow Cooker with cooking spray
Whisk together all the sauce ingredients EXCEPT the cornstarch and water.
For chicken, use a sharp knife to cut through two wing joints, discard wing tips.
Salt and pepper the chicken wings and place them in the prepared slow cooker.
Pour tangy cranberry mixture over top.
Cook on low for 3 - 4 hours.
Before serving, remove wings from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet.
Preheat broiler.
Transfer cooking juices to a skillet, skim any fat.
Bring juices to a boil, cook until mixture is reduced by half, 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mix cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into juices.
Return to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir until thickened, 1-2 minutes.
Broil wings until lightly browned, 2-3 minutes.
Brush with glaze and put back in the oven for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with green onion if desired.
Serve with remaining Cranberry Horseradish for dipping.

I hope you enjoy these Tangy Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Wings as much as we do!

What is one of your favorite game day recipes? Have you ever made chicken wings in the slow cooker?

Looking to add a bit of zing to your cooking? Be sure to follow Silver Spring Foods on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

While you are at it, check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Easy Potatoes au Gratin – Just 5 Ingredients

November 12th, 2018April 9th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Make this Easy Potatoes au Gratin for your next holiday gathering, or on any day! With just 5 ingredients, this easy recipe is the perfect side dish. This post is sponsored by Real California Milk but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Easy Potatoes au Gratin – Just 5 Ingredients

Confession. This is the first time I have ever made homemade potatoes au gratin. WAY back when my husband and I first got married I made him the boxed version a few times, but they were never really that fantastic, so I stopped making them. The slicing of the potatoes and making the sauce and getting the cheese just right was always intimidating to me for some reason. So, I never made it. Until today. With the holidays coming and potatoes are always on the table, I figured it was the perfect time to perfect this cheesy, creamy side dish.

And thanks to Real California Milk products that I picked up at Publix, my Potatoes au Gratin were actually really easy to make and absolutely delicious. In fact, there are only 5 ingredients in my easy potatoes au gratin recipe – making it a must have on your holiday menus. Even your everyday menu 😉

Why use products made with Real California Milk? Because when you buy products with the seal you’re getting real food from real people, kissed by the California sun.

The Real California Milk seal means the product is made with 100 percent milk from California’s 1,300 dairy farm families (California dairies are 99% family owned and operated). I love being able to support dairy families by simply buying the products my family loves.

Be sure to look for the Real California Milk Seal on the products in this recipe and on other dairy products that you love while you are at the store.

Find Real California Milk products near you

Now, here is my Easy Potatoes au Gratin Recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

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Easy Potatoes au Gratin

Enjoy this incredibly delicious Easy Potatoes au Gratin as a side dish to your favorite dinner meal. With just 5 ingredients, this recipe is a must try.

Prep Time10

Cook Time1

Total Time1 10

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: easy recipe, potatoes, side dish

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

15 oz Crema Mexicana made with Real California Milk
6 oz Queso Fresco made with Real California Milk
1 small can diced mild chiles
1/2 medium sized yellow onion - diced
2 - 2 1/2 lbs russet potatoes sliced thin - I used a mandoline - I left the skins on you can peel them though if you prefer
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Spray a 9x13 pan or casserole dish with cooking spray.
Place half of the potatoes in the greased pan.
Cover them with half of the green chiles and onions and half of the crema mexicana.
Place the remaining potatoes in the pan.
Top with the rest of the onions and green chiles and then pour on the remaining sauce.
Cover the pan and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove from the oven, uncover and sprinkle queso fresco over the top
Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top of the potatoes are lightly browned, the cheese is melted and the potatoes are tender.
Serve warm.
Enjoy!

Notes

You can broil the dish for 1 minute or so at the end to get the cheese extra brown if you would like.

I hope you enjoy this deliciously creamy, cheesy and easy Potatoes au Gratin recipe as much as we do!

The Crema Mexicana gave this dish a delicate and buttery fresh milk flavor and the Queso Fresco has a mild, fresh taste making it the perfect topper on this easy potato side dish.

I did add green chiles to my recipe, you can leave them out if you would like but we enjoyed the extra bit of flavor they added.

What is one of your go-to side dishes during the holidays? Have you made homemade potatoes au gratin before?

Be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Christmas Moscow Mule

November 12th, 2018December 21st, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

A festive twist on the traditional Moscow Mule this Christmas cocktail recipe will be a hit at your next holiday party. Cheers to this Christmas Moscow Mule!

Christmas Moscow Mule

You all know how I love a good Moscow Mule, I have created several fun varieties here on the blog, like my Winey Moscow Mule and the Apple Cider Moscow Mule, but since the holidays are quickly approaching I thought I would share a fun Christmas Moscow Mule cocktail.

Moscow Mules are light and refreshing and not as heavy as some cocktails, and that splash of ginger beer adds a bit of bubbles and a bit of tang. When I think of holiday cocktails, I think of chocolate and peppermint. I love peppermint, like in my Peppermint Twistmas Martini, but chocolate makes me think of calories. And if I am having a cocktail, I am probably going to have two cocktails and I don’t want to feel guilty that I did. That’s why I love this Holiday Moscow Mule, I can have two and I don’t feel full and I don’t feel like I just had two chocolate bars. Don’t get me wrong…I L-O-V-E chocolate, but the holidays are filled with delicious eats that are loaded with calories, so I don’t need to drink them as well. There are only so many hours I can spend working out or running 😉

The pomegranate seeds in this cocktail are a cute added holiday addition, but you can leave them out if you like. But, I like them for the presentation! Put them on top of your copper mug with a slice of lime and you have a little green and red giving you a festive Moscow Mule that is perfect for the holidays.

If you are one my readers that don’t have Florida Cane Vodka near you, you can possibly use Peppermint Vodka and a little extra pomegranate juice to substitute the Candy Cane listed in the recipe. I will openly admit that I see peppermint and pomegranate as holiday flavors, but I never really thought of them together until I was at a tasting at the Florida Cane Distillery here in Tampa. The pomegranate cuts the WOW of the peppermint, and the peppermint cuts the tartness of the pomegranate. It works well! Then you add in the vanilla and this Christmas Moscow Mule is complete 🙂

Now, here is how to make my Christmas Pomegranate Moscow Mule. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

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Christmas Moscow Mule

A festive twist on the traditional Moscow Mule this Christmas cocktail recipe will be a hit at your next holiday party. Cheers to this Christmas Moscow Mule!

Prep Time3

Total Time3

Course: Cocktail

Keyword: alcohol, christmas, cocktails, vodka

Servings:

Calories: 200kcal

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1 oz Florida Cane Candy Cane Vodka - this is a Peppermint Pomegranate Flavored Vodka
1 oz Florida Cane Vanilla Vodka
2 oz pomegranate juice
4 oz ginger beer
Juice from one wedge of lime
Pomegranate seeds for garnish
Slice of lime for garnish

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Instructions

Pour the vodkas and the pomegranate juice into your favorite copper mug filled with ice.
Stir well.
Pour in the ginger beer.
Squeeze in the lime juice.
Top with pomegranate seeds and a slice of lime for garnish.
Cheers!

Nutrition

I hope you enjoy this Holiday Moscow Mule as much as we do!

What is one of your favorite Moscow Mule cocktail recipes?

Happy Holidays!

Looking for more cocktail recipes?

Apple Cider Mule

Call Me A Cab Lemonade Vodka Wine Cocktail

Peppermint Twistmas

Be sure to check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Delightful Spanish Wines You Should Try

November 8th, 2018June 12th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Looking for a new wine to try? You may have never heard of Tempranillo or Albarino, but they are delightful Spanish Wines you should definitely try.

Delightful Spanish Wines You Should Try

Tempranillo, a red grape, and Albarino, a white, produce two of Spain’s most popular wines. Now they are producing delicious wines and big fans in the New World.

Spanish wine grapes have been planted in the U.S. for about 100 years, and have produced some exceptionally good wines. But they have been neglected in modern times by winegrowers and producers in favor of the more popular varieties with French and Italian origins. But now more and more wineries are planting those two Spanish grapes, and the wines made from them are finding enthusiastic fans.

Tempranillo

By far, the production leader of the two Spanish grapes is Tempranillo, the grape that produces Spain’s premier Rioja wines. The wine is dark red, fruity, and has minimal tannin, making it easy and delicious to drink young. More than 40 wineries from Texas to Canada, including Arizona, Oregon, Washington, and Ontario, are producing Tempranillo wine. Most of the 40 are in California. Among the leaders is Artesa Vineyards in Napa Valley’s Carneros region. Artesa is owned by a Spanish wine family, Cordoniu, that dates back to the 14th century. Other leading producers are Viader, Goosecross, and Parador.

Fruit flavors are right up front in Tempranillo. Tasting notes list blackberry, cherry, and plum, followed by chocolate and spice.

There is even a Tempranillo fan club, called TAPAS, which stands both for the Spanish small-plate tasty dishes and Tempranillo Advocates Producers and Amigos Society. TAPAS website lists many of the wineries with links to their web sites. TAPAS is headquartered in Phoenix and holds annual tastings in major cities. TAPAS also promotes Albarino wines.

Average prices range from $16 to $30, with more expensive bottles reaching up to $70.

Albarino

Albarino grapes produce Spain’s most popular white wine. The grapes are grown primarily in the Rias Baixos region on Spain’s Northwest Coast. They have been planted only in the past 20 years in the New World. The Albarino pioneer vintner in California is the Verdad Winery in the Santa Inez Valley, Northeast of Santa Barbara. Other producers today, in California, include Artesa, Cambiata, Tangent Winery, and Havens Wine Cellars. It is produced in Oregon by Abacela Winery.

Albarino is a clean, refreshing wine, with a flintiness similar to Chablis, and with a lasting finish. It has been called a cross between a Sauvignon Blanc and a dry Riesling, and to a Gewurztraminer. Tasting notes list flavors of citrus, pineapple, and lemon meringue pie. Albarino has a characteristic aroma of orange blossoms.

Average prices range from $10 to $25.

Because of the growing popularity of Albarino and Tempranillo wine, releases often sell out quickly. Consider joining a wine club at one of the producing wineries to be sure to get in early on the releases. Some, such as Artesa, have included Tempranillo in wine club selections. You can also keep a look out for them at your favorite wine stores, because these varietals are becoming more and more popular you may see them in stores.

Here’s a fun idea; include a Tempranillo and Albarino in a blind tasting or wine and food pairing you put on for your friends or family. I would be curious to hear what your friends and family thought of these Spanish wines…would they be able to guess what they are in a blind tasting?

Have you tried Spanish wines? Which are your favorite?

Be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more wine tips and experiences, healthy recipes, and travel.

Mini Snickerdoodle Apple Pies + Free Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable

November 7th, 2018November 5th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

These Mini Snickerdoodle Apple Pies are perfect to share with friends and family! And don’t forget to attach the Free Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable. While this post is sponsored, all opinions are my own.

Mini Snickerdoodle Apple Pies

+

Free Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable

Two of my husband’s favorite things. Snickerdoodle cookies and apple pie. I mean, if you think about it, they really are a match made in heaven. The cinnamon goodness from the snickerdoodle cookies is the perfect accompaniment to apples. So, I did it. I made these adorable mini snickerdoodle apple pies, and I made them mini so that my family and I wouldn’t sit down and eat a whole pie, but so we would share them with our family and friends this holiday season.

I am actually hoping you will do the same! That’s why I even made a cute Thanksgiving printable that you can attach to the plate before you share these mini apple pies! I mean, who doesn’t like a homemade sweet treat delivered to their door? Complete with a sweet note 🙂

I handmade absolutely everything in this recipe, with a little help from Voortman Bakery on snickerdoodle crust.

The apple pie filling and the cinnamon whipped cream are so easy to make, that you won’t even think about buying pre-made! You can have these adorable individual apple pies ready to share with family and friends in about 30 minutes.

Before you get started baking these beauties, grab my free Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable. Either click the image below and print away, or you can click HERE.

Now, here is how to make these Mini Apple Pies with a Snickerdoodle Crust. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make them again and again.

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5 from 1 vote

Mini Snickerdoodle Apple Pies + Free Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable

These Mini Apple Pies with a simple snickerdoodle crust are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: Dessert

Keyword: apples, desserts, pie, thanksgiving

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients

1 cup finely ground Voortman Bakery Snickerdoodle Cookies - approx. 6 cookies
3 tablespoons butter melted

Apple Pie Filing Ingredients

5 medium apples
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon water + 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Cinnamon Whipped Topping Ingredients

3/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Line a cupcake/muffin tin with cupcake liners

Snickerdoodle Crust Instructions

Mix cookie crumbs and butter
Press equal amounts of cookie mixture into cupcake liners and bake at 375 degrees 7 minutes
Let cool
While the crust is cooking, prep the apple pie filling.

Apple Pie Filling Instructions

Peel, core and slice apples. Once the apples are sliced, cut the slices in half.
Melt butter and cinnamon over medium heat.
Add in apples, sugar and the 3 tablespoons water.
Cover and cook stirring occasionally for 4-6 minutes.
In a small dish combine cornstarch and water.
Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan while stirring and continue to cook until apples are soft and filling is thickened.
Let cool.

Whipped Topping Instructions

Beat cream, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon and vanilla in medium bowl on high speed until stiff peaks form.
Assemble your mini apple by topping your snickerdoodle crusts with the apple pie filling and a dollop of the cinnamon whipped topping.
Share with friends and family and be sure to attach the Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable!
Enjoy!

Notes

If you would like your apple pie filling thicker, combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water. Add a small amount at a time while the mixture is boiling until you reach your desired consistency.

I hope you enjoy these Mini Snickerdoodle Apple Pies as much as we do! And don’t forget to grab your Free Thanksgiving Gift Tag Printable.

Be sure to stay social with Voortman Bakery by following on Instagram and Facebook. And check them out online for all the delicious bakery-goodness.

While you are at it, follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Looking for another adorable dessert worth sharing this Fall?

Light Mini Pumpkin Bundt Cakes

Vanilla Pomtini

November 5th, 2018March 9th, 2021

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A delicious mix of Pomegranate juice and Vanilla Vodka make this Vanilla Pomtini a festive cocktail to serve up at your next happy hour or holiday party.

Vanilla Pomtini

Vanilla Pomegranate Martini

What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a cocktail? I usually only see Pomegranates out around the holidays, so I thought they would be fun in a few holidays cocktails. I mean, the holidays are made for entertaining, and when you are not entertaining you are running around like crazy trying to get ready for the holidays…and those are the times you made need a cocktail for…you 😉

This Vanilla Pomegranate Martini only has 3 simple ingredients and will definitely be a hit at your holiday parties. And if you don’t use all the Pomegranate juice making these festive martinis, be sure to check out my Christmas Moscow Mules.

To make my Vanilla Pomegranate Martinis you just need pomegranate juice, vanilla vodka, fresh lime juice and pomegranate seeds for garnish. If are feeling extra fancy, you can put red sugar on the rims of the glasses. These martinis are light and easy to drink, but they do indeed pack a punch, so be careful 😉

To get the cocktail to layer, you have to pour in the juice first, then slowly pour in the vodka. As you an see, I didn’t use a traditional martini glass, this style let me place the pomegranate seeds right on the glass for a fun effect. Now, the layers look fun, but remind your guest that the first sip will be all vodka! So, maybe after they compliment you on how cool the cocktail looks, you may want to give it a little stir.

Now, here’s how to make these Vanilla Pomtinis, be sure to Print and Pin the recipe so that you can make them again and again.

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Vanilla Pomtinis

This Vanilla Pomtini is a festive martini that will sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Cheers!

Prep Time2

Total Time2

Course: Martini

Keyword: alcohol, christmas, cocktails, drinks, holidays, martini, vodka

Servings:

Calories: 162kcal

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

2 oz COLD Pomegranate juice
2 oz COLD vanilla vodka I used Florida Cane
Squeeze of fresh lime juice
Pomegranate seeds for garnish if desired

US Customary - Metric

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Pour juice into glass
SLOWLY pour the vodka in, if you can pour it onto the side of the glass instead of directly on top of the juice, you should be able to get the layering affect
Add pomegranate seeds for garnish
Cheers!

Notes

If you would like to sugar coat your martini glass rim, rub the lime slice around the rim, pour red (or green of gold!!) sugar on a small plate, place the glass upside down on the plate and twist it lightly to coat the rim, then make your martini.

Nutrition

I hope you enjoy these Festive Vanilla Pomtinis as much as I do!

What is one of your favorite holiday cocktails? Have you made pomtinis before?

Looking for more cocktail recipes?

Apple Cider Mule

Call Me A Cab Lemonade Vodka Wine Cocktail

Peppermint Twistmas

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11 Healthy Holiday Eating Tips

November 2nd, 2018May 8th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This post was sponsored by Optimum Nutrition as part of an Influencer Activation and all opinions expressed in my post are my own. The holidays are a time to be enjoyed, not a time to be stressed about all those delicious eats! Read on to discover 11 healthy holiday eating tips to help you stay on track this holiday season and beyond.

11 Healthy Holiday Eating Tips

The holidays are coming, the holidays are coming! And while it is “the most wonderful time of the year” it is also the time of year where there is the most wonderful food EVERYWHERE. We seem to celebrate the holidays with ALL of our favorite foods. Even though it’s just about impossible to eat everything, I know we all try. So, how do we stay on track? I mean, we still have to enjoy all our favorite foods, but how do we not eat ALL of everything? How do we avoid the guilt of having that slice of apple pie? How do we not dread the holiday meals for fear of all the calories? As the weather changes, so does our eating habits. For many people, colder weather means a richer and heartier fare, while warmer weather means lighter meals with more fresh.

Well, I have a few healthy holiday eating tips to share today that help me, and I hope they help you too. Because, the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, it’s not a time to stress about what we can’t eat. In fact, I hope these Healthy Eating Tips help you all year long!

Here are my 11 Healthy Holiday Eating Tips:

Don’t Skip Meals

Are you getting ready for the huge holiday dinner by thinking that you should skip breakfast and lunch? Thinking that you are saving those calories? Not a good idea! That typically leads to overeating. Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast like a smoothie or grab some Optimum Nutrition Protein Cake Bites or Protein Crisps, they are a perfect on-the-go option and they have 20 grams of protein. I always stock up when I am at Walmart.

Think Before You Eat

Ask yourself, “Are you really hungry?” Maybe you are just thirsty or stressed? Or maybe those holiday cookies just look really good?

Have a Protein Filled Snack Before That Big Meal

It will help fill up your stomach some and assist in the urge to overeat. Grab a handful or two of Optimum Nutrition Protein Almonds. Going to be out of town? Staying with family? Delicious Optimum Nutrition new ready-to-eat protein options are perfect, on-the-go sources of protein to help you reach (and stick to) your goals. Feel free to share your Optimum Nutrition Cake Bites, Protein Almonds and Protein Crisp bars with your friends and family too…you can always restock at the local Walmart for an amazing everyday low price 🙂

Appreciate Your Food

Before you inhale everything on your plate, take a moment to actually inhale. Yes, smell it, appreciate it, relax. Eating is supposed to be enjoyed, just not a way to fill that void in our stomachs.

Slow Down

It’s not a race! The turkey and pie are not going to disappear. Actually chew your food. Put your fork down in between bites, talk with those at the table. Did you know that it takes 20+ minutes for your brain to tell your stomach that you are full? So, slow down….then you may realize you don’t need that 2nd plate.

Eat Your Vegetables

And eat them first. They are good for you and may help you from eating too much of something else. A great winter produce choice is squash. There is a variety of winter squash available – acorn, spaghetti, butternut, pumpkin are just a few. Using winter squash is a low-calorie, low-fat way to add hearty texture and flavor to winter meals. Bake a spaghetti squash (375º for an hour) and top with pesto and pine nuts to create a tasty side dish or roast pumpkin seeds and toss with spices (cinnamon or cumin) to top desserts, salads or add to trail mix.

Stop When You’re Full

I know, you are like…duh! But how many times have you grabbed an extra bite or two..or ten…just because it tasted soooo good. I know I have!

Go Ahead, Have Dessert

I am sure there will be everything from cookies, to cakes, to pies to ice cream and even ice cream pies and cakes! Go ahead, have some! Don’t deprive yourself. Just think about, make it a small slice. Want to try everything? Go ahead. Just have a bite of each one. You can also consider indulging your sweet tooth with some fruit. Now that peaches, watermelon, strawberries, and other summer fruits are out of season, turn to apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries, kiwi, grapefruit, and oranges to satisfy that sweet tooth. Use fall and winter fruits to liven up desserts, salads, grain dishes, breakfast, and snack time.

Drink Water

I know we all may have a cocktail or two this holiday season, but consider alternating with water for two reasons: it will help cut the calories and it will help you from getting dehydrated. Drinking water also helps curb hunger cravings.

Go for a Walk

Stay active. Resist the urge to sit on the couch after you eat and take a quick cat nap. Walking is one of the healthiest habits you can have! There are studies that say you can ease digestion by taking a walk after a meal. Looking for some fitness motivation? Check out these fitness motivation tips.

Don’t Feel Guilty

Trying to stay on track can stress some people out. The holidays are a time to enjoy. Be sure to do the same! If you over-indulge one day, don’t beat yourself up about it! Maybe try to walk a few extra steps the next day. And if you don’t get those extra steps in, that’s okay too! Just don’t totally through all your health goals out the window because of a “bad” day or two. It’s okay to be human! It’s okay to enjoy all the delicious holiday eats and treats! Just think in moderation.

I hope these Healthy Holiday Eating Tips help you stay on track with your goals this holiday season and beyond!

What is one of your Healthy Eating Tips that help you stay on track over the holidays? Or anytime!

Be sure to stay active with Optimum Nutrition by following on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Be sure to check out all my healthy lifestyle recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram for more fitness motivation tips.

Healthy Banana Pumpkin Muffins

October 22nd, 2018September 5th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

These Healthy Banana Pumpkin Muffins are lower in sugar than your traditional muffins but still have all the delicious flavors of fall. Bake up a batch of these pumpkin banana muffins today, they are ready in about 20 minutes!

Healthy Banana Pumpkin Muffins

Mmmmmm…pumpkin! I just love pumpkin season. You all love my low fat pumpkin coffee cake recipe so much that I decided we needed more low calorie baked pumpkin treats. But you don’t have to wait for Fall to make these delicious pumpkin muffins. Not only do I love eating all things pumpkin, but did you know that pumpkin is good for us? Pumpkin loaded with fiber, vitamin A, potassium, anti-oxidants, and healthy fats. So, go ahead…Let Them Eat PUMPKIN! Of course, you have to watch what you add to your pumpkin recipes to keep them on the healthy side, that’s why I love these Pumpkin Banana Muffins, they are moist, delicious and not full of calories. I love baking (and making smoothies) with bananas because they cheap, delicious, and easy to digest. Bananas are high in potassium and can help regulate your blood pressure. So, not only are these muffins delicious, they are good for you!

Of course, these would be great for breakfast, but since you can have a warm pumpkin banana muffin ready and in your hands in about 20 minutes…they would also make for a yummy snack.

You probably have all the ingredients right in the house too! The main ingredients for these banana pumpkin muffins: bananas, pumpkin, eggs, oats, flour and sugar. The rest of the ingredients are your spices and oils…like I said, you probably have all the ingredients for these banana pumpkin muffins on hand right now. So, let’s get baking 🙂

Here is my Healthy Banana Pumpkin Muffins recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

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5 from 1 vote

Healthy Banana Pumpkin Muffins

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Breakfast or Snack

Keyword: banana, easy recipe, healthy, muffins, pumpkin

Servings:

Calories: 101kcal

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

2 bananas
1 cup pumpkin
2 eggs
1/2 cup oats plus additional for sprinkling on top
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon flax seed
4 tablespoon butter melted
1 tablespoon coconut oil melted
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

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Instructions

Combine all wet ingredients in a bowl: Bananas, pumpkin, eggs, butter, coconut, and vanilla.
Using a potato masher or a fork, mash all ingredients together.
Add dry ingredients to the mashed mixture and stir until well combined.
Line cupcake or muffin pan with liners and fill with batter 1/2 way.
Sprinkle with additional oats.
Bake at 350 for 15-18 mins (until toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the middle)
Enjoy!