This recipe for a classy winter cocktail came to me from my dear friend Natalie, after she served one to me at a party. Prepare to astound your friends and family with THE EASIEST COCKTAIL RECIPE IN HISTORY!

The hazelnut flavor is from the liqueur Frangelico, which comes in a bottle that’s supposed to look like a monk (complete with a real rope belt), but that my family and friends agree looks more like Aunt Jemima. This liqueur is worth investing in, not only because hazelnut martinis are da bomb, but also because it tastes great in coffee or poured over vanilla ice cream.

(Here’s a link to the Frangelico website: http://www.frangelico.com/)

The only other ingredient in hazelnut martinis is vodka. Seriously, people, you only want to use a top shelf vodka at your house. If the vodka is under $20 a bottle, chances are it has a skunky aftertaste. Ew. I use Kettle One, but Absolut or Grey Goose are two other popular, “good enough” vodkas.

Here’s the hazelnut martini recipe:

In a cocktail shaker half full of ice, add equal parts Frangelico and vodka. 1 1/2 ounces of each is a nice amount that gives you a three ounce drink. Remember, this drink is all alcohol, with no mixers, so a little goes a long way. Because the measurement is so easy, it’s a snap to double or triple the recipe.

Once you add Frangelico and vodka to the ice in the shaker, shake it up for at least 15 seconds, then strain into a martini glass. No garnish necessary. I guarantee this drink will be a hit at your next party. Happy New Year, everyone!