Everybody deserves a little treat now and then to get them through ‘til January. Here’s a rundown on what some of the holiday treats that Madison’s coffee shops, bakeries and cocktail lounges are offering this month – both naughty and nice.
Buche Noel – Madison Sourdough
This annual holiday yule log looks almost too good to eat! It’s a chocolate cake with hazelnut and chocolate mousse decorated with white chocolate “mushrooms,” sugared rosemary, and cranberries. Order ahead of time to pick up on Dec. 23.
Gingerbread Cake and Chocolate Peppermint Cake – Bloom Bake Shop
Bloom Bake Shop is rolling out its holiday menu this week, and the many sweet treats on the menu include both a chocolate ganache cake layered and frosted with peppermint buttercream, and a moist gingerbread cake layered with cranberry preserves.
Peppermint Bark – CocoVaa Chocolate
The chocolatier’s seasonal favorite features premium white chocolate infused with natural peppermint and a hint of spearmint, along with crunchy peppermint bits.
Cocoa Nib Cold Brew with Sugar Cookie Cold Foam – Madison Chocolate Company
At the Odana Road location, the year-round cold brew is made festive with sugar cookie cold foam and sprinkles on top. Pair it with a gluten-free gingerbread person or a Christmas tree frosted sugar cookie from the bakery.
Winter Spice AuLait – Barriques
Barriques sweetens up its AuLait with vanilla and a Winter Spice syrup that includes cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and orange zest. Order it with a Holiday Kringle Rice Krispie Treat.
Nutmeg Fig Cappuccino – Wonderstate Coffee
Two favorite flavors of the season combine into one sweet and savory drink to get your morning started.
Egg Nog Old Fashioned – Lola’s Hi/Lo Lounge
Lola’s new holiday menu includes a hot dish-inspired appetizer, but my curiosity is piqued by this twist on a holiday tradition. Instead of putting brandy in your nog, Lola’s puts spiced egg nog in an Old Fashioned, including both bourbon and brandy.
Mulled Wine – Lucille
You can cosplay as Clarence in “It’s A Wonderful Life” and order this hot drink at Lucille’s annual Miracle on King Street, “heavy on the cinnamon and light on the cloves.”
Hot Toddy – Leopold’s
After a day of snowshoeing or ice skating, there’s nothing like getting warmed up with a Hot Toddy. Leopold’s offers three varieties – original, Earl Grey, and Spiced Apple and Pear.
Sally’s Deadly Nightshade – Merchant
Merchant gets into the holiday pop-up game this year with its “Nightmare Before Christmas” event. Sally’s Deadly Nightshade includes rum and sweetened milk, and comes in an N/A version too.
