Is it just me, or did sweater weather arrive in the blink of an eye? Suddenly, the chill is here, and it’s time to embrace all things cozy. While the swift shift in seasons might catch us by surprise, there’s no need to worry! As the temperatures drop, there’s a whole world of spirit-warming cocktails to explore. Let’s revisit a few comforting recipes that are perfect for gatherings with friends and family.

In the following recipes, we’ll be utilizing pears as a key ingredient in tandem with simple baking spices. The two flavors are a match made in heaven when combined. They’re also widely available (if not already in your kitchen)—and more importantly, in season! This means your fruit will be at its most flavorful, and that means fresher, tastier cocktails for you and your friends.

Efficiency is key when mixing for a group of friends. To be a good host, you want to be mingling with your guests. But if you’ve ever picked up the bartending duties, odds are, you’ve probably found yourself stuck behind the stick.

My advice: If you choose to forgo hiring a professional bartender, make a “punch.” One of my favorites is a Winter Sangria. Counterintuitive, I know. But don’t knock it ’til you try it! Most drinkers are accustomed to sangrias during warm weather, but you’ll find that with a thoughtful approach through the addition of alternative ingredients, you can enjoy a wonderful warming sangria in the colder months as well.