A taste of fall

During the autumn, the pumpkin reigns supreme. There are pumpkins to carve, pumpkin patches to explore, festive pumpkins and gourds adorning homes and stores, and pumpkin-flavored everything -- lattes, muffins, pies and beer. That sweet, spicy goodness simply tastes like fall.

Many months have passed since I last shared a cocktail recipe in my "In-town Rundown" column. Many of the autumn-themed recipes involved hot cider, but this one is a little different, and too delicious not to divulge. It's tentatively titled, "A taste of fall" -- really, it's just like drinking pumpkin pie. (Credit goes to my friend Eliana for the recipe).

You'll need: Pinnacle's pumpkin pie vodka, chilled apple cider, pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon can be substituted), whipped cream.

Instructions: Pour one shot of pumpkin pie vodka into a wine glass (more or less can be added, depending on taste or plans for the next day). Add apple cider, leaving enough room at the top for a dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top. Enjoy!

If you have a cocktail recipe -- or any culinary creation -- you'd like to share, send it to me at lifestyles@observertoday.com by Nov. 8. Our annual recipe edition is coming out in November and the categories are a bit different this year. See page A8 in today's edition of the OBSERVER for details.