As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to get festive and cozy with a warm cup (or glass) of your favorite Christmas drink. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to unwind after a long day, these boozy treats are sure to spread some cheer. From classic eggnog and hot chocolate to more adventurous cocktails featuring mulled wine and cranberry bourbon punch, we’ve rounded up 20 festive Christmas drink recipes that will keep your spirits bright. In this article, we’ll take you on a merry journey through the world of holiday libations, showcasing unique flavor combinations and clever twists on old favorites.
Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Punch
Warm up with a festive drink that combines the flavors of cranberries, bourbon, and spices. This punch is perfect for holiday gatherings or winter celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cranberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or punch bowl, combine cranberry juice, bourbon whiskey, and honey syrup. Heat over low heat, whisking occasionally, until the honey is dissolved.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and salt to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the spices have infused into the punch.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the punch into a large pitcher or individual glasses. Garnish with fresh cranberries.
5. Serve warm, or chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Peppermint White Russian
Experience the refreshing twist on a classic cocktail with this Peppermint White Russian recipe. A perfect blend of cool mint and rich cream, it’s sure to become your new favorite drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes or mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, peppermint schnapps, and white chocolate liqueur.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients (about 15-20 seconds).
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with crushed candy canes or mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake, strain, and serve.
Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg
Warm up this holiday season with a creamy Eggnog Martini infused with the warmth of nutmeg. This rich and velvety cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fireplace or serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz eggnog
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Pinch of nutmeg, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, eggnog, heavy cream, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg over the top of the martini for garnish.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Mulled Wine with Brandy
Warm Up with a Rich Mulled Wine with Brandy Recipe
This classic wintertime drink is elevated by the addition of brandy, adding depth and complexity to its rich, spiced flavors. Perfect for cozying up on a cold evening or serving at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup brandy (such as Cognac or Armagnac)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in brown sugar and brandy until dissolved.
5. Add sliced orange and lemon.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional citrus slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Holiday Espresso Martini
Get into the holiday spirit with this rich and decadent espresso martini. Perfect for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso, liqueur, and cream to create a truly special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 ounce Kahlúa liqueur
– 1 ounce heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, Kahlúa, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a dash of vanilla extract on top (if using).
6. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick to prepare and serves 1.
Cinnamon Whiskey Hot Chocolate
Escape the chill of winter with this rich and comforting hot chocolate recipe infused with the warmth of cinnamon and whiskey. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or non-fat)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ounces whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in whiskey and remove from heat.
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and cinnamon sticks, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gingerbread Old Fashioned
This twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail combines the spicy warmth of gingerbread with the rich flavors of bourbon and spices. Perfect for the holiday season, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– 1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
– 2-3 whole cloves, for garnish
– Ice
– Orange peel, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, ginger liqueur, simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
3. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and whole cloves.
5. If desired, express a strip of orange peel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a cocktail, not a dish.
Cranberry Prosecco Sparkler
Cranberry Prosecco Sparkler: A Festive Twist on a Classic Cocktail
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of cranberries with the effervescence of Prosecco, making it a perfect drink for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup Prosecco
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the cranberries until smooth.
2. Strain the cranberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, Prosecco, and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add the orange juice and stir again.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve the Cranberry Prosecco Sparkler chilled, garnished with slices of orange.
Cooking Time: None
Salted Caramel Irish Coffee
Elevate your coffee game with this rich and indulgent Salted Caramel Irish Coffee recipe, featuring the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and boozy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1 teaspoon of unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1/4 cup of salted caramel syrup (or homemade caramel)
– 1 ounce of Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– Whipped cream and flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, add the brewed coffee.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and salted caramel syrup. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the Irish whiskey to the mixture and stir gently.
5. Pour the caramel mixture into the coffee mug, holding back any whipped cream if desired.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and flaky sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat any time of the year. With its sweet and tangy flavors, you’ll be sipping in style.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz champagne
– 1 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add pomegranate juice, triple sec, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with champagne and stir gently.
6. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Eggnog Rum Chata
Add a festive twist to your holiday gatherings with this rich and creamy Eggnog Rum Chata. This unique drink combines the warm spices of chai with the velvety texture of eggnog and a hint of rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine eggnog, heavy cream, dark rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and ginger.
2. Whisk until the spices are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add sweetened condensed milk and whisk until combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Spiked Peppermint Hot Cocoa
This spiked hot cocoa recipe combines the warmth of rich chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint and a hint of holiday cheer. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this drink is sure to put you in the festive spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee (optional)
– 1-2 tablespoons vodka or your preferred liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until steaming hot.
2. Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the peppermint and vanilla extracts; whisk to combine.
4. Remove from heat; stir in the espresso or coffee, if using.
5. If desired, add 1-2 tablespoons of vodka or your preferred liqueur for a spiked version.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cherry Bourbon Smash
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing Cherry Bourbon Smash, perfect for sipping on a warm day. This fruity twist on the classic bourbon smash combines the sweetness of cherries with the warmth of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the cherries with a spoon to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, lemon-lime soda, 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. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cherry Bourbon Smash over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 4-6 people
Coconut Snowball Martini
Experience the tropical getaway with this creamy and refreshing Coconut Snowball Martini. This sweet treat is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz coconut-flavored vodka
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1/2 oz white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Splash of lime juice
– Shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the coconut-flavored vodka, coconut cream, and white chocolate liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with a splash of heavy cream and lime juice.
6. Garnish with shredded coconut and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Maple Butter Bourbon Toddy
As the weather cools down, warm up with a rich and comforting Maple Butter Bourbon Toddy. This sweet and savory drink combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup and the richness of buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup hot water
– Lemon slice or cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the bourbon and maple syrup.
2. Add the melted butter to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour in the hot water and stir gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness and temperature as needed.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice or cinnamon stick, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (simply mix and serve)
Gingerbread White Russian
This wintery twist on the classic White Russian combines the spices of gingerbread with the richness of coffee liqueur and cream. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz gingerbread-flavored syrup (see below)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish
Gingerbread Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, grated
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add grated ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
To make the cocktail:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, and gingerbread syrup.
3. Shake until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Top with heavy cream and garnish with whipped cream and nutmeg.
Cranberry Gin Fizz
Combine the tartness of cranberries with the crispness of gin for a delightful holiday cocktail. This Cranberry Gin Fizz is perfect for serving at your next gathering or enjoying by the fireplace.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with cranberry juice and club soda.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel and a few fresh or frozen cranberries.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Combine the warm spices of autumn with the creamy richness of a White Russian, and you’ll be sipping on a Pumpkin Spice White Russian. This unique cocktail is perfect for fall gatherings or as a seasonal treat to spice up your happy hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Shake until chilled and strain into a coupe or rocks glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in seconds!)
Apple Cider Bourbon Punch
Warm up with a delicious and refreshing Apple Cider Bourbon Punch perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties! This flavorful punch combines the sweetness of apple cider, the warmth of bourbon, and the spices of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup ginger ale
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, bourbon whiskey, orange juice, and ginger ale.
2. Add ground cinnamon and nutmeg; stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with sliced apples and cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: None (preparation time: approximately 10-15 minutes)
Candy Cane Vodka Martini
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and refreshing martini, featuring candy cane-infused vodka and peppermint syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces candy cane-infused vodka
– 1/2 ounce peppermint syrup
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the candy cane-infused vodka, peppermint syrup, and heavy cream.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a dash of vanilla extract and garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your Candy Cane Vodka Martini as a sweet treat during the holiday season!
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas drink recipes, featuring boozy holiday spirits like bourbon, brandy, and rum. From Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Punch to Gingerbread Old Fashioned, and from Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg to Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail, there’s something for everyone on this merry list. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to cozy up by the fireplace, these recipes will bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.