Get ready to deck the halls and warm up your spirits with these 20 festive holiday cocktail recipes! The holiday season is a time for cozy celebrations, and what better way to gather around the fire or at the dinner table than with a delicious drink in hand?
From classic winter flavors like peppermint and gingerbread to more unique twists on old favorites, our list of holiday cocktails has something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a special treat to enjoy by the tree, these recipes are sure to bring some joy and cheer to your holiday season.
So grab your favorite mug, don your coziest sweater, and let’s get started on this festive journey through the world of holiday cocktails!
Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule
Elevate your holiday cocktail game with this refreshing Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule. A twist on the classic, this recipe combines the warm spices of winter with the tartness of cranberries and the crispness of ginger beer.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with cinnamon sticks and cloves)
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of rosemary or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Muddle in the cranberries to release their flavor and color.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of rosemary or thyme.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve!)
Peppermint White Russian
The classic White Russian cocktail gets a cool and creamy makeover with the addition of peppermint syrup, creating a unique and invigorating drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 oz peppermint syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– Ice
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Add the peppermint syrup and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (ready in minutes!)
Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg
Start your holiday celebrations with a twist on the classic martini, featuring creamy eggnog and a hint of warm nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz eggnog
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 oz heavy cream
– Pinch of ground nutmeg
– Martini glass
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, eggnog, simple syrup, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg on top.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg, a creamy and indulgent treat perfect for the holiday season!
Gingerbread Old Fashioned
Warm up with a twist on the classic cocktail, combining the spices of gingerbread with the richness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Gingerbread Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, gingerbread syrup, honey syrup, and bitters.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 10-12 seconds.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with an orange peel, twisted to release its oils.
Cooking Time: None
Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon
This classic winter warmer is a staple of cozy nights by the fire. With its rich, buttery flavor and hint of cinnamon, this drink is sure to become your new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces dark rum
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the cinnamon, milk, brown sugar, and nutmeg to the melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in the rum and whisk until well combined.
4. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and frothy (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Candy Cane Martini
Get ready to jingle your bells with this festive Candy Cane Martini, perfect for the holiday season. This sweet and fizzy treat combines peppermint vodka, candy cane-infused simple syrup, and sparkling water for a refreshing twist on traditional martini.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces peppermint vodka
– 1/2 ounce candy cane-infused simple syrup (see below)
– 3-4 ounces sparkling water
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Candy Cane Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 6-8 crushed candy canes
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring until dissolved. Add crushed candy canes and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain syrup before using.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add peppermint vodka and candy cane simple syrup.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your Candy Cane Martini!
Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves
Warm Up with Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves
As the seasons change, there’s no better way to cozy up than with a warm cup of mulled wine. This recipe combines the rich flavors of red wine with the brightness of citrus and the warmth of cloves for a perfect winter drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, sliced citrus fruits, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let mulled wine cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in brown sugar and water until dissolved.
5. Strain mulled wine into cups or mugs and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pomegranate Champagne Punch
Elevate your social gatherings with this refreshing Pomegranate Champagne Punch, perfect for holiday parties and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups champagne or sparkling wine
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of fresh orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine champagne, pomegranate juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add slices of fresh citrus fruits and mint leaves as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 8-10
Enjoy your Pomegranate Champagne Punch at your next gathering!
Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
Elevate your cocktail game with this autumnal twist on the classic bourbon smash. The combination of warm apple cider and bourbon creates a cozy, comforting drink perfect for crisp fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 3-4 dashes of cinnamon bitters
– Ice
– Apple slice or cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Add cinnamon bitters to taste.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None (ready in minutes!)
Chocolate Peppermint Espresso Martini
Combine the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint with a shot of espresso to create a decadent cocktail perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce crème de menthe
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 shot of espresso (about 1 ounce)
– Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white chocolate liqueur, crème de menthe, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and peppermint extract.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Add a shot of espresso to the mixture.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prep time includes shaking the cocktail)
Cranberry Orange Sangria
This refreshing sangria is perfect for the holiday season, combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange and a hint of spice. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it on your own.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– Sliced orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberries and sugar. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the cranberries to release their flavor.
2. Add the white wine, orange juice, and triple sec to the pitcher. Stir to combine.
3. Add the cinnamon stick pieces to the pitcher.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, stir in some sparkling water (optional).
6. Serve the sangria over ice in glasses and garnish with sliced orange.
Cooking Time: None needed! Let the flavors meld together while you’re busy preparing for your gathering.
Spiked Eggnog Latte
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this rich and creamy Spiked Eggnog Latte, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 ounce dark rum (or to taste)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brew or make your espresso, then pour into a large mug.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Add the eggnog mixture to the coffee, stirring gently to combine.
4. Add the dark rum (to taste), stirring again to distribute evenly.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for garnish.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Holiday Spiced Margarita
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive twist on a classic margarita! Warm spices and bright citrus come together to create a deliciously seasonal cocktail perfect for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 ounce triple sec
• 1/2 ounce agave syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
• Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, agave syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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 and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to drink in just a few minutes.
Vanilla Bean White Christmas Margarita
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this unique and refreshing take on the classic margarita. The subtle hint of vanilla bean and sweetness will transport you to a winter wonderland.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce vanilla-flavored simple syrup (see note)
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves and edible gold dust, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, vanilla simple syrup, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and edible gold dust, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make vanilla-flavored simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 1/2 vanilla bean in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool before using.
Fireside Hot Toddy with Honey
As the temperature drops, cozy up with this soothing hot toddy made with honey and spices. Perfect for a chilly evening by the fire or as a comforting drink on a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed tea (black or green)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– Whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the brewed tea, honey, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
3. Pour in the boiling water and stir to combine.
4. Serve hot, with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick garnish if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Baileys
Warm up on a chilly day with this decadent and creamy hot chocolate infused with the spices of gingerbread and a hint of Baileys Irish Cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Baileys Irish Cream.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Winter Spritz with Prosecco and Cranberry
Brighten up your winter gatherings with this refreshing and fruity twist on the classic spritz cocktail. This delightful drink combines the crispness of Prosecco with the tartness of cranberry for a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Prosecco
– 1 oz cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– Splash of sparkling water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Prosecco and cranberry juice.
3. Add the triple sec and stir gently.
4. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve as soon as you’ve assembled the ingredients.
Enjoy your Winter Spritz!
Maple Bourbon Smash with Rosemary
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing twist on the classic smash. The combination of sweet maple syrup, rich bourbon, and fragrant rosemary creates a complex and delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
– 4-6 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– Ice
– Lime wheel (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the rosemary sprigs with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and maple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and additional rosemary sprig, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Snowflake Martini with Coconut Rum
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Snowflake Martini, featuring coconut rum and a hint of citrus. This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz coconut rum
– 1 oz vodka
– 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– Splash of blue curaçao
– Edible gold dust (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add coconut rum, vodka, simple syrup, and lime juice.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a splash of blue curaçao for a pop of color.
6. Garnish with edible gold dust, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Enjoy your Snowflake Martini!
Caramel Apple Cider Mimosa
Elevate your brunch game with this unique take on the traditional mimosa: Caramel Apple Cider Mimosa! The perfect blend of sweet and tart, this drink combines the warmth of apple cider with the richness of caramel syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup champagne or prosecco
– 2 tablespoons caramel syrup (or to taste)
– Slice of apple for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the apple cider, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Top the cider with champagne or prosecco.
4. Add 1-2 tablespoons of caramel syrup, depending on your desired level of sweetness.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a slice of apple and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy the perfect blend of autumnal flavors at your next brunch or gathering!
Summary
Get ready to toast the holiday season with these 20 festive cocktail recipes! From classics like the Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves to modern twists like the Peppermint White Russian, there’s something for everyone. Try a Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule or an Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg for a seasonal twist on old favorites. Or, go bold with a Gingerbread Old Fashioned or Candy Cane Martini. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to cozy up at home, these recipes are sure to bring cheer and warmth to your winter celebrations.
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