The Red Star Recipes

Steps:

• In a large bowl, cream butter, shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Beat in orange juice concentrate and vanilla. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into creamed mixture., Divide dough in half. Shape each into a disk; wrap in plastic. Refrigerate 2 hours or until firm enough to roll., Preheat oven to 350°. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of dough to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 4-in. star-shaped cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets., Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges are light brown. Cool on pans 5 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely., For icing, in a small bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, warm water, meringue powder and cream of tartar; beat on low speed just until blended. Beat on high 4-5 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Tint red with food coloring. Keep unused icing covered with a damp cloth at all times. If necessary, beat again on high speed to restore texture., Spread icing on cookies; immediately sprinkle with colored sugar. Let stand until set.

Steps:

• Pour the whiskey, hibiscus syrup, pineapple juice, lemon juice and some ice into a mixing tin. Shake passionately. Strain the contents into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Top the cocktail with spiced ginger beer. Garnish with a candied hibiscus flower and sprig of mint. Take gentleman and #gentleladysips. Enjoy!