As the snowflakes start to fall and the holiday season gets underway, many of us find ourselves seeking out new ways to get into the spirit. For some, that means decking the halls with boughs of holly or baking up a storm in the kitchen. But for others, there’s no better way to get merry than with a festive cocktail in hand.
To help you spread some holiday cheer this season, we’ve gathered 20 delightful recipes that are sure to impress your guests and keep them warm and cozy by the fire. From classic eggnog and hot buttered rum to more modern concoctions like peppermint martini with candy cane rim, these festive drinks are perfect for any holiday party or gathering.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered with our selection of sweet and savory holiday cocktails. So grab your favorite glassware, don your favorite holiday sweater, and get ready to raise a toast to the season!
Peppermint Martini with Candy Cane Rim
Get into the holiday spirit with this refreshing Peppermint Martini featuring a festive candy cane rim. Perfect for your next holiday gathering or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz peppermint schnapps
– 1 oz vodka
– 1 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes, for garnish
– Sugar, for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. Rim a martini glass with sugar by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and then dipping it into a shallow dish of sugar.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine peppermint schnapps, vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None!
Cranberry Orange Sparkler
Add a touch of festive flair to your gatherings with this refreshing Cranberry Orange Sparkler! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this sparkling drink is perfect for holiday parties or everyday sipping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup Grand Marnier liqueur (or other orange-flavored liqueur)
– 1 liter sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Orange slices and fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, and Grand Marnier.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cranberry Orange Sparkler over the ice.
6. Garnish with orange slices and fresh cranberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve as soon as you mix the ingredients.
Spiced Apple Cider Mule
Warm up with this fall-inspired twist on the classic Moscow Mule.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon or apple-flavored vodka
– 4 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slice of apple, for garnish
– Sprig of rosemary, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon or apple-flavored vodka, apple cider, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a slice of apple and a sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
This Spiced Apple Cider Mule is perfect for crisp fall evenings. The apple cider adds natural sweetness, while the bourbon or apple-flavored vodka provides a warm and spicy kick. Enjoy!
Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg
This creamy, indulgent eggnog recipe gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of bourbon and nutmeg. Perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract, nutmeg, and bourbon.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Gingerbread White Russian
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic White Russian, infused with warm gingerbread spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur
– 1/2 ounce cream
– 1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– Ice
– Whipped cream and grated nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of gingerbread syrup.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and grated nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Pomegranate Champagne Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and festive Pomegranate Champagne Punch! This fruity and bubbly drink is perfect for toasting the season with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups champagne or sparkling wine
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Slices of fresh lime and orange for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine champagne, pomegranate juice, simple syrup, and lime juice.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, fill glasses with ice and pour the Pomegranate Champagne Punch over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a slice of fresh lime and orange.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve in just a few simple steps.
Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon
Warm up with a rich and comforting Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup hot water
– Optional: brown sugar, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for topping
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg to the melted butter and stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the rum and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to very low (almost off).
5. Stir in the hot water, creating a warm and comforting drink.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed by adding brown sugar.
7. Serve immediately, topped with whipped cream and additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Winter Spice Sangria
As the temperature drops, warm up with a festive and flavorful Winter Spice Sangria that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup of orange juice
– 1/2 cup of apple cider
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 1/4 cup of maple syrup
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 whole cloves
– Sliced oranges and lemons for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, orange juice, apple cider, honey, and maple syrup. Stir until the sweetener is dissolved.
2. Add the cinnamon stick and whole cloves to the mixture. Let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Just before serving, stir the sangria well to redistribute the spices.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced oranges and lemons.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cold-weather drink, perfect for sipping on a cozy night in.
Chestnut Cream Liqueur Cocktail
Warm up with this seasonal twist on the classic liqueur cocktail, featuring the rich flavors of chestnuts and cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz chestnut liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz vanilla extract
– Dash of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add chestnut liqueur, heavy cream, simple syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top (optional).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Rosemary Gin Fizz
This herb-infused cocktail combines the bright flavors of rosemary and gin with a splash of citrus and soda water, creating a delightful drink for warm weather or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup rosemary leaves
– 1/2 cup club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the rosemary leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your refreshing Rosemary Gin Fizz!
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
A rich and complex twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, this recipe combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, if desired, to release its oils.
Cooking Time: None
Notes:
– Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste, depending on how sweet you like your cocktails.
– Use a high-quality bourbon and fresh bitters for optimal flavor.
Spiced Pear Prosecco Cocktail
As the seasons change, warm up with this autumnal twist on a classic cocktail. The combination of spiced pear puree and Prosecco creates a deliciously fragrant and flavorful drink perfect for sipping on chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 bottle Prosecco
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pears, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove spices.
3. Fill glasses with ice. Pour 1-2 tablespoons of the spiced pear puree over the ice.
4. Top each glass off with Prosecco.
5. Stir gently and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of pear, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Chocolate Peppermint Martini
Escape the summer heat with this decadent and invigorating cocktail. Combining rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and creamy vodka, this martini is perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Add peppermint extract and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Vanilla Bean Hot Toddy
Warm up with a soothing and flavorful drink that combines the comfort of hot toddy with the sweetness of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or 1 tea bag
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 ounce bourbon or whiskey (optional)
– Honey, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the tea and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.
3. Strain the tea into a large mug.
4. Add the vanilla extract, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
6. If desired, add the bourbon or whiskey and stir well.
7. Taste and adjust the sweetness with honey if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy your soothing and flavorful Vanilla Bean Hot Toddy!
Caramel Apple Sangria
Elevate your fall gatherings with this sweet and tangy Caramel Apple Sangria. This refreshing drink combines the flavors of crisp apple cider, rich caramel, and velvety red wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup caramel syrup
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
– 1/4 cup sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine, apple cider, caramel syrup, mixed berries, and sliced apples.
2. Stir gently to combine, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in ground cinnamon.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced apples or berries if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly of ingredients.
Toasted Coconut Eggnog
This rich and creamy eggnog recipe is infused with the warm flavors of toasted coconut, perfect for a festive holiday gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent and delicious beverage that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (see note)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Stir in toasted coconut flakes and salt.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: None (prep time only)
Citrus Clove Whiskey Sour
Brighten up your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic whiskey sour. The combination of citrusy freshness and warm spices will leave you feeling revitalized.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz clove-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Egg white
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, orange juice, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the clove-infused simple syrup and egg white.
3. Dry shake (shake without ice) for 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake again for another 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking one.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Pumpkin Spice White Russian Recipe: A Twist on a Classic Cocktail
As the leaves change colors and the temperature drops, warm up with this seasonal take on the classic White Russian. The addition of pumpkin spice and maple syrup gives this cocktail a cozy, autumnal flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Add the pumpkin pie spice and maple syrup.
4. Stir for approximately 20-30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
Cooking Time: None
Holiday Mimosa with Cranberry Juice
Elevate your holiday celebrations with this refreshing twist on the classic mimosa. This sweet and tangy cocktail combines the traditional champagne and orange juice with cranberry juice for a festive touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup champagne
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup cranberry juice
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the champagne, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Add the orange juice and cranberry juice.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. If desired, add a tablespoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
6. Garnish with slices of orange.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Peach and Ginger Sparkling Punch
A refreshing twist on traditional punch, this sweet and tangy drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger juice
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced peaches and sprigs of fresh mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine peach puree and ginger juice.
2. Add pineapple juice and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in sparkling water.
5. Garnish with sliced peaches and sprigs of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None required! This punch is ready to serve straight from the pitcher.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delightful festive cocktail recipes! From classic eggnog to creative twists like peppermint martini and gingerbread white Russian, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add some cheer to your holiday gatherings, these recipes are sure to impress. With ingredients like cranberry juice, bourbon, and nutmeg, you’ll be sipping like Santa in no time. Try the Cranberry Orange Sparkler, Spiced Apple Cider Mule, or Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon for a taste of the season.
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