blog - Host The Toast

Paper Snowflake Decorations

(Day 11 of the 12 Days of Christmas) I'm sure you've noticed by now that Host the Toast's "12 Days of Christmas" are ending the day before Christmas. This is because 1) Christmas advice won't help you much if I post it ON Christmas, and 2) You and I are both going to be...

Peppermint Mocha White Russian Martinis

(Day 9 of the 12 Days of Christmas) A few weeks ago, I saw this recipe for Peppermint White Russians from Pink Parsley. I remember thinking that it sounded like the love child of the seasonal Starbucks drink and a liquor cabinet, which, in case you were confused, meant that I had to try...

Strawberry Basil Spiked Lemonade

Strawberry Basil Spiked Lemonade. This vodka-spiked cocktail is fruity, refreshing, and perfect for summer. The first time I photographed this recipe almost 5 years ago, I placed the glasses on the tile bathroom floor-- yes, bathroom-- because it was my third recipe ever I didn't have a good place to shoot. These are my confessions.

S'mores Martini

S'mores Martini. This creamy, chocolatey cocktail tastes like a boozy version of your favorite campfire treat. I have been so tempted to say "bring the bonfire inside with these martinis" but I feel like I am opening myself up to lawsuits. So instead I'll say that this drink is like your favorite bonfire treat, but with...

Bratwurst Sliders with Beer Cheese and Beer Braised Onions

These Bratwurst Sliders are loaded up little sandwiches that pack a lot of flavor (and beer) into small servings. Don't forget the beer cheese (which is surprisingly easy to make) or the beer braised onions, which are rich and caramelized, if you really want to do it right. Bonus points if you make the pretzel...

Pretzel Rolls

Homemade Pretzel Rolls: soft on the inside, salty and chewy on the outside, and now better than ever! No lye necessary, these fluffy, perfectly browned, slider-sized pretzels are surprisingly easy to make. Fill them with ham and cheese, bratwurst, or even mini burgers. Hot. Tempting. Perfectly tanned. I'm talking about pretzels, ladies and gents. You’ve had...