The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a delicious and merry cocktail? As the snowflakes start to fall and the fireplace crackles to life, gather ’round with friends and family to toast to the joy and cheer of the season. From classic eggnog recipes to modern twists on holiday favorites, we’ve got 20 festive Christmas cocktails to keep you cozy and merry all season long.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a selection of our favorite holiday cocktail recipes that are sure to become new traditions in your household. Whether you’re looking for something warm and spicy or refreshing and fruity, we have a recipe to suit every taste. So grab your mixing glass, get creative with some festive garnishes, and let the holiday cheer begin!
Spiced Eggnog with Bourbon
Elevate your holiday season with this rich and creamy Spiced Eggnog infused with the smoothness of bourbon. This indulgent drink is perfect for sipping by the fireplace or serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine eggnog, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until warm and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon.
4. Strain into cups or a large pitcher to serve. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cranberry Mule Martini
This refreshing cocktail combines the flavors of cranberries and lime with the spicy kick of ginger beer, all wrapped up in a smooth vodka base.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz cranberry juice
– 1/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 3 oz ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh mint sprig, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint (if desired).
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Peppermint White Russian
Combine the classic White Russian cocktail with the invigorating flavor of peppermint for a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 oz peppermint syrup (or to taste)
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Add peppermint syrup to taste.
4. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.
Cooking Time: None (prepare in under 1 minute)
Gingerbread Old Fashioned
This unique cocktail combines the spices of gingerbread with the classic flavors of an old fashioned, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– 1/4 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (about 6-8 cookies)
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, ginger liqueur, simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Add the crushed gingerbread cookies to the mixture and muddle gently with a spoon or muddler.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, curled into a spiral shape.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Old Fashioned!
Holiday Sangria with Pomegranate
This festive sangria recipe combines the flavors of pomegranate, cranberry, and orange to create a delicious and refreshing holiday drink. Perfect for gatherings and parties, this sangria is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/2 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/4 cup triple sec
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and triple sec.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Add slices of orange, lemon, and lime to the pitcher.
4. Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Frosty Candy Cane Martini
A refreshing twist on the classic martini, this festive cocktail combines sweet and tart flavors with a hint of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 oz peppermint schnapps
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, white chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a splash of peppermint schnapps.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 1
Enjoy your Frosty Candy Cane Martini!
Warm Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail
Warm Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe
As the seasons change, warm up with a cozy and inviting cocktail that combines the flavors of apple cider, spices, and bourbon. This Warm Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 4 oz apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until warm and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the spices from the cider into a preheated mug or glass.
4. Add bourbon to the cider, stirring gently to combine.
5. Taste and add honey if desired for a touch of sweetness.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your Warm Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail on its own or paired with a favorite fall treat!
Cinnamon Roll Hot Chocolate Martini
Combine the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the richness of hot chocolate and the sophistication of a martini for a unique holiday treat. This sweet and indulgent drink is perfect for cold winter nights or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of vodka
– 1/2 cup hot chocolate mix (or 1/4 cup high-quality cocoa powder)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and additional cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine hot chocolate mix and butter. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
3. In a martini glass, combine vodka and hot chocolate mixture.
4. Top with heavy cream and garnish with whipped cream and additional cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (mostly just heating the hot chocolate)
Eggnog Espresso Martini
Combine the festive flavors of eggnog with the richness of espresso in this unique and delicious martini. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee (espresso)
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Simple syrup (optional, to taste)
– Nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, vodka, heavy cream, eggnog, and vanilla extract.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. If desired, add a splash of simple syrup to balance sweetness.
6. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Cooking Time: None! This martini is ready in just a few minutes.
Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves
As the winter nights draw in, a warm and spicy mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This recipe adds a twist with the addition of citrus and cloves, creating a rich and aromatic drink that’s perfect for cold weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 slices orange
– 2 slices lemon
– 4 whole cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, orange and lemon slices, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and fragrant (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Add the brown sugar and water to the pot, stirring until dissolved.
4. Simmer the mulled wine for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature.
5. Remove from heat and strain into cups or mugs. Serve hot, garnished with a slice of orange if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Champagne Punch
A refreshing and bubbly drink perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this Cranberry Champagne Punch combines the tartness of cranberries with the effervescence of champagne.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup champagne (or sparkling wine)
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of orange, lime, and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add fresh lime juice and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, pour in the champagne and stir gently.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with slices of orange, lime, and lemon.
Cooking Time: None
Spiked Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this spiked and minty treat, perfect for a chilly evening or a festive gathering. With the addition of peppermint schnapps, you’ll be sipping like it’s the holidays in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint schnapps
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and peppermint schnapps.
4. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Serves: 2-4 people
Orange-Clove Bourbon Fizz
This Orange-Clove Bourbon Fizz is a unique and flavorful take on the classic bourbon cocktail. The combination of citrusy orange, warm clove, and smooth bourbon creates a delightful taste experience that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 3 dashes of clove bitters
– Splash of club soda
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, orange juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add 3 dashes of clove bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Top with a splash of club soda.
7. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Spiced Pear and Gin Cocktail
Warm up with a Spiced Pear and Gin Cocktail, perfect for chilly fall evenings or cozy winter nights. This unique drink combines the sweetness of pears with the spice of cinnamon and the smoothness of gin.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz pear liqueur (such as Génépy des Alpes)
– 1/2 oz apple cider syrup (or to taste)
– 1/4 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Slice of fresh pear, for garnish
– Cinnamon stick, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, pear liqueur, apple cider syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a slice of fresh pear and a cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix, shake, and serve.
Maple Bourbon Ginger Smash
This refreshing cocktail combines the warmth of bourbon with the spicy kick of ginger, all wrapped up in a sweet and tangy package.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz fresh ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 3-4 oz ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, maple syrup, and ginger liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None needed! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Snow Globe Cocktail with Coconut Rum
Step into a tropical wonderland with this refreshing Snow Globe Cocktail featuring coconut rum. This sweet and creamy drink is perfect for sipping on a warm day or as a unique cocktail for your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz coconut rum
– 1/2 oz blue curaçao
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 oz pineapple juice
– Splash of club soda
– Pineapple wedges and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add coconut rum, blue curaçao, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with pineapple juice and a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cinnamon Vanilla Winter Margarita
As the temperature drops, cozy up with this unique twist on the classic margarita. The combination of cinnamon and vanilla will transport you to a winter wonderland.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce vanilla-flavored liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1/2 ounce cinnamon-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, vanilla-flavored liqueur, cinnamon-infused simple syrup, and lime juice.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Note: To make cinnamon-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1/2 cup sugar and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let cool and strain before using.
Holiday Spritz with Prosecco and Cranberry
Start the holiday season off right with this refreshing and flavorful cocktail, perfect for gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of Prosecco (750ml)
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup triple sec or Cointreau
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice.
2. Pour in the Prosecco and cranberry juice.
3. Add the sparkling water and triple sec.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve over ice in glasses, garnished with orange slices.
Cooking Time: None required!
This festive drink is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy!
Roasted Chestnut Hot Toddy
As the temperatures drop, warm up with this soothing and flavorful hot toddy infused with roasted chestnuts. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cold winter morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chestnuts
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup bourbon or whiskey (optional)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast chestnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until fragrant and tender.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted chestnuts, water, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla extract.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture into mugs. If desired, add bourbon or whiskey and stir well.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gingerbread Manhattan
This Gingerbread Manhattan combines the rich flavors of gingerbread and bourbon with a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Gingerbread cookie crumbs or shaved ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, ginger liqueur, simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the mixture.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain into a coupe or cocktail glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with gingerbread cookie crumbs or shaved ginger.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail, not a dish.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas cocktail recipes! From classic eggnog and mulled wine to creative twists like peppermint white Russian and cinnamon roll hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to cozy up by the fireplace, these recipes will help you create a merry and bright atmosphere. So go ahead, grab your favorite mug and get mixing – it’s time to make some holiday cheer!