SMASHING PUMPKIN MARTINI

MY FAVORITE ALL TIME BAND...gotta love this drink!

This spicy, pumpkin-infused cocktail would make a delightful aperitif from Halloween through Christmas. It was created by Felix Albano, manager of the bar at Fifty Seven Fifty Seven in New York City.

3 ounces spiced pumpkin vodka
1 ounce Amaretto
Garnish: toasted pumpkin seeds
For pumpkin seeds: Heat a large heavy skillet over moderate heat until hot. Toast pumpkin seeds, stirring constantly, until they expand and begin to pop, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer seeds to a plate to cool.

For Martini: In a shaker filled with ice, stir spiced pumpkin vodka and Amaretto. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Serves 1.

SPICED PUMPKIN VODKA

Try this pumpkin-infused vodka in the Smashing Pumpkin Martini, or use it to invent a holiday cocktail of your own.

The bar at Fifty Seven Fifty Seven in New York City, where it was created, uses a liter-sized bottle to hold the vodka-pumpkin mixture while it steeps.

1/2 cups (350 ml) cinnamon vodka
3/4 cup (175 ml) vanilla vodka
3/4 cup (175 ml) vodka
2 whole vanilla beans
2 cups raw pumpkin meat, cut into 1/4-inch slices
Combine vodkas in bottle or other glass container. Add pumpkin meat and vanilla beans and let sit for 1 week. If necessary, when mixing cocktails strain the vodka as you pour it into the shaker. Consider using toasted pumpkin seeds or some of the vodka-soaked pumpkin as garnish.

Fills a one-liter bottle (a scant quart).