When I think of dairy in cocktails, my mind first goes to 1905’s era treats like Grasshoppers and Pink Squirrels. Although I’m more of a “repo tequila neat” kind of gal in my day-to-day imbibing, I do enjoy tasty little creamy treats on occasion.Obviously, I’m not the only one who likes a sip of decadence because there are a few new products filling that need. And, the best part is that these are not just goopey, sickley sweet swill. Just keep reading to see how cream liqueurs are evolving, and how milk is finding its way into your vodka… images 1) Averna Cream Liqueur: Move over Bailey’s… Averna’s newest incarnation is a unique creamy, sweet bitterness that is incredible on its own (chilled or on the rocks) or mixed in cocktails, and yes, even in coffee. Its everything I like in one bottle and the possibilities are endless. Digestif? Party shots? Dessert drinks? As long as Averna Cream Liqueur is in it, bring ‘em on! 2) Bols Yoghurt Liqueur: Oh my goodness. I first tasted this in Amsterdam at the House of Bols in 2010. It was one of those products that made me swoon because the sweet and creamy qualities are balanced with the tart taste of yogurt. In fact, I liked Bols Yoghurt Liqueur so much that it inspired me to include yogurt cocktails in my latest book Edible Cocktails: Garden To Glass, which in turn, Rachael Ray’s folks liked so much they included the recipe in her magazine. Prediction = hello next big trend. Bonus = this yogurt liqueur just launched in the USA. 3) RumChata: Ok, this isn’t terribly new. Its been out a couple of years by now, and its delicious. Rum + Horchata = yummy. I had a bottle at home. It didn’t last long. I tried to make it last. I really did. It was just that good. I like it on the rocks. Why mess with RumChata deliciousness? 4) Broken Shed Vodka: I blogged about this last fall. It’s a vodka made from milk curds, proving that, yes, vodka can be made from just about anything. And, my inaugural foray into dairy-based spirit was a yummy one. Read more here. 5) Milk Money Vodka: While at the WSWA trade show in Orlando in April, I met a guy from New Mexico (my home state) who is representing another milk-based spirit called Milk Money Vodka. His company is called Leche Spirits and his slogan is “from the titty to the city,” which I can’t help but find somewhat hokey-yet-hilarious. He is just launching this product – I don’t know if he even has distribution yet… but for you trendsetters, this is one to keep an eye out for.