Rum

This is a Hawaiian drink, and green coconuts may not be available in all regions. If not, an Old-fashioned glass will do very nearly as well.

Flips were originally hot drinks made with egg and a variety of liquors and wines. They were warmed up by means of a loggerhead, an iron tool with a long handle and bulbous end that could be heated and plunged, like a poker, into the drink. Today, however, flips are generally served cold. Historically, they have been most often served in the morning or at bedtime, because of their soothing character.

The classic drink from old Cuba is said to have been concocted by expatriate American miners with time on their hands. These tart, lime-loaded daiquiris were created by recipe developer Jeanne Thiel Kelley's father, when he had time on his hands.

This German drink, called Grossmutters Punsch (Grandmother's Punch), is usually enjoyed warm at midnight on Christmas Eve. It can also be served as a refreshing chilled drink. For a festive touch, add a cinnamon stick to each glass.

The name banoffee plays on the combination of a banana filling and a topping of coffee-flavored whipped cream. This inspired dessert comes from pastry chef Abigail Langlas at Alan Wong’s award-winning restaurant in Honolulu.

(Caramel Walnut Fudge Bars)

Sweet Plantains with Buttered Rum and Coconut Sauce

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The following is an adaptation of a recipe originally appearing in Gourmet, August 1958.