No Vegas holiday season would be complete without hearty doses of fabulous cocktail parties and stiff drinks. Satisfying both, Rhumbar bartender Marissa Carbaugh presents the Spiced Apple Jack Mojito ($49)—best served by the punch bowl.

Carbaugh was inspired to create a libation for festive get-togethers where most of the work is done ahead of time, ensuring fuss-free entertaining. The Spiced Apple Jack Mojito unfolds in layers of belly-warming Montecristo rum and Applejack brandy, with gorgeous seasonal notes of apple cider, cinnamon and star anise. Mix up a batch the night before your next bash. Then just grab a ladle and start celebrating.

Ingredients:

6 oz. Montecristo Spiced Rum

2 oz. Applejack brandy

3 oz. lime juice

4 oz. apple cider

4 cinnamon sticks

4 star anises

soda water

5 dried apple crisps (garnish)

8-10 mint leaves (garnish)

Method: Combine first six ingredients in a pitcher and let the cocktail infuse for 6-8 hours. k When ready to serve, mix the cocktail, add a splash of soda and pour over ice in a punch bowl. Garnish with dried apple crisps and mint leaves.