This little treat just arrived from City Cosmetics. I have no idea how it made it into my mailbox? But given it is pumpkin – and a martini, I am so doing this!

In case you would like to join me in a little pre-holiday celebrating, here is a recipe for a yummy cocktail, complete with all the rationalizations you could ever want for why it’s good for you.

Pumpkin Pie Martini

• 3 Tbsp vodka
• 2 Tbsp half and half
• 3 Tbsp canned pure pumpkin puree
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1-2 pinches pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for a stronger flavor)

Put all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. (If you don’t have a shaker, two slightly different-sized glasses will do.) Shake vigorously, then strain into a martini glass. Enjoy!

For a non-alcoholic treat, just trade out the vodka for 3 Tbsp low-fat milk.

Now you might be wondering… WHY is this cocktail so good for my skin?

Pumpkin is chock-full of Vitamin A, a well-known anti-aging vitamin that helps rebuild skin and create a healthy glow.

Pumpkin Pie Spice contains nutmeg and cinnamon, which help improve circulation to oxygenate and heal tissues.

Maple Syrup is rich in manganese, a mineral that stimulates healthy collagen production for firmer, more lifted skin.

Vodka may aid in healthy blood flow when consumed in moderation, and contains fewer skin-damaging contaminants than darker liquors. Choosing a higher-end vodka that’s at least triple distilled will ensure that it’s extra pure.

Vanilla is high in the antioxidants that help prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming.

Of course, whenever you’re drinking alcohol, make sure you have a tall glass of water too to stay hydrated (and keep skin from drying out!).

And remember – overdoing it can actually make your skin look WORSE, so enjoy responsibly! 😉

Lead product Formulator “Victoria” instructs us to “stay beautiful.”

Will do Victoria – and THANK YOU!