The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of festive gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, and the joy of indulging in sweet treats. But why stop at just desserts when you can elevate your celebrations with a perfectly crafted cocktail? This year, we’re shaking things up with 18 festive holiday martini recipes that will make your merry moments even more magical.
From classic peppermint candy cane to warm and spicy eggnog, our collection of martinis is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory sipper, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors that will make your holiday party a hit. So grab your martini glass, put on your favorite festive tunes, and get ready to jingle all the way into the holiday season!
Peppermint Candy Cane Martini
Get into the holiday spirit with this refreshing and festive Peppermint Candy Cane Martini! This sweet and tangy cocktail is perfect for Christmas parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon crème de menthe
– Candy cane garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, peppermint schnapps, and white chocolate liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and drizzle with crème de menthe.
6. Garnish with a candy cane.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just minutes!
Spiced Eggnog Martini
As the weather cools down, warm up with a Spiced Eggnog Martini that combines the creamy richness of eggnog with the comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. This seasonal cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz eggnog
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Ice
– Whipped cream and nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, eggnog, heavy cream, simple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Cranberry Orange Martini
A refreshing twist on the classic martini, this Cranberry Orange Martini combines the sweetness of orange and the tartness of cranberries for a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Orange twist or slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add vodka, triple sec, orange juice, cranberry juice, 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. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None
Gingerbread Cookie Martini
Get ready to cozy up with this sweet and spicy martini that combines the flavors of gingerbread cookies with vodka, Baileys Irish Cream, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/2 ounce ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup (or to taste)
– 1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
– Whipped cream and crushed gingersnap cookies, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Baileys Irish Cream, and ginger liqueur.
3. Add gingerbread syrup and shake until chilled.
4. Strain into a martini glass.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and top with whipped cream and crushed gingersnap cookies, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and serve!)
Pumpkin Spice Martini
Elevate your fall celebrations with this warm-weather twist on the classic martini. This Pumpkin Spice Martini combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a crisp vodka base.
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces vodka
• 1/2 ounce pumpkin puree
• 1/2 ounce heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• Dash of pumpkin pie spice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Martini!
Hot Chocolate Martini
Experience the perfect blend of hot chocolate and martini with this decadent drink. Perfect for a cold winter night or a special occasion, this martini is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 1/2 ounces Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, white chocolate liqueur, and Kahlúa to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and sprinkle with cocoa powder, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Apple Cider Martini
As the leaves change colors, cozy up with this autumn-inspired cocktail that combines the richness of apple cider with the sophistication of a martini. This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for sipping on a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– Apple slice or cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add vodka, apple cider, triple sec, simple syrup, and lemon juice 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. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None
Cinnamon Roll Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and delicious Cinnamon Roll Martini, featuring the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for fall or winter gatherings, this sweet treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1/2 ounce butterscotch schnapps
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vanilla-flavored vodka, butterscotch schnapps, and heavy cream.
3. Add ground cinnamon and nutmeg; shake well to combine.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes of shaking and straining.
White Chocolate Peppermint Martini
This refreshing martini combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint, perfect for a holiday party or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed candy canes (optional)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and peppermint schnapps.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply shake, strain, and serve.
Caramel Apple Martini
Start your fall celebrations with this sweet and tangy Caramel Apple Martini! A perfect blend of crisp apple cider, rich caramel, and velvety vodka, this cocktail is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1 oz Apple cider
– 1/2 oz Caramel syrup
– 1/2 oz Heavy cream
– 1/4 oz Lime juice
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Thinly sliced apple, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a martini glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add vodka, apple cider, caramel syrup, heavy cream, and lime juice to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
6. Garnish with a thinly sliced apple.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparing ingredients) + shaking time
Eggnog Chai Martini
Experience the warm, spicy flavors of chai tea infused with creamy eggnog and mixed with vodka for a unique holiday cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz eggnog
– 1/2 oz chai tea syrup (or 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cardamom, and 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add vodka, eggnog, chai tea syrup (or individual spices), 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. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Pomegranate Champagne Martini
A refreshing twist on the classic martini, this Pomegranate Champagne Martini combines the sweetness of pomegranate juice with the effervescence of champagne. Perfect for special occasions or a night out with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz champagne
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with champagne.
6. If desired, add a splash of grenadine for added flavor and color.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None ( cocktail)
Toasted Marshmallow Martini
This sweet and creamy cocktail combines the flavors of toasted marshmallows, vanilla, and chocolate to create a unique and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup toasted marshmallow fluff (see note)
– Splash of vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, White Chocolate Liqueur, heavy cream, and simple syrup.
2. Add toasted marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract to the shaker.
3. Shake until well combined and chilled.
4. Strain into a martini glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs.
Note: To toast marshmallows, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before using.
Chocolate Cherry Martini
This indulgent martini combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate and cherry liqueur, perfect for special occasions or a decadent nightcap. With its velvety texture and sweet-tart flavor profile, this drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Godiva Dark Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 oz Cherry Heering liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz grenadine syrup
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– Fresh cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add the dark chocolate liqueur, cherry liqueur, heavy cream, simple syrup, and grenadine syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the martini into a chilled glass.
5. Garnish with a fresh cherry.
Cooking Time: None! Simply shake and serve.
Spiced Pear Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors, featuring the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pear puree.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz pear puree
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz cinnamon-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/4 oz heavy cream
– Pinch of ground nutmeg
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, pear puree, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add a pinch of cinnamon-infused simple syrup and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine flavors.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Top with heavy cream and sprinkle with ground nutmeg.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make cinnamon-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup and let cool before using.
Coconut Snowball Martini
Coconut Snowball Martini: A tropical twist on the classic martini, this refreshing cocktail combines creamy coconut flavors with a hint of sweetness and a touch of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1/2 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of lime juice
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Squeeze in a splash of lime juice and garnish with a fresh mint leaf.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail to prepare.
Maple Pecan Martini
Experience the sweet and nutty combination of maple syrup and pecans in this unique martini recipe, perfect for a sophisticated cocktail hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 ounce maple syrup
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 ounce pecan liqueur (such as Amaro Abbruzze)
– 1/4 cup crushed pecans
– Ice
– Lemon twist or pecan garnish, optional
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine bourbon whiskey, maple syrup, heavy cream, and pecan liqueur.
2. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Sprinkle crushed pecans around the rim of the glass or use as garnish.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed, just shake and serve!
Rosemary Cranberry Martini
This refreshing martini combines the tartness of cranberries with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for a sophisticated cocktail party or a special occasion. With its elegant blend of flavors and colors, this martini is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/4 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup rosemary simple syrup (see note)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, triple sec, and cranberry juice to the shaker.
3. Add rosemary simple syrup (see note) and shake well for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh or frozen cranberries.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make rosemary simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Summary
Get ready to shake things up this holiday season with these 18 festive martini recipes! From classic peppermint and eggnog to creative cranberry and gingerbread flavors, there’s something for every taste bud. Enjoy warm and cozy drinks like hot chocolate and spiced pear, or try something sweet and fruity like caramel apple and white chocolate peppermint. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a special treat, these merry mixologists are sure to bring cheer to your celebrations.
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