The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive cocktail? Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to add some cheer to your daily routine, these 18 delicious and easy-to-make cocktails are sure to bring joy to your gatherings. From classic winter warmers like Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon to creative twists like the Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of our favorite holiday cocktail recipes that are perfect for cozying up by the fire or sipping on while mingling with friends. From classics like Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg to modern concoctions like Pumpkin Spice White Russian, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So grab your favorite mug, don your coziest sweater, and let’s get started! In the next section, we’ll dive into our first cocktail recipe: Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule…
Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule
This refreshing cocktail combines the spicy warmth of cinnamon and cloves with the tartness of cranberries, perfect for the holiday season. Spice up your gatherings with this unique take on the classic Moscow Mule.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Vodka
– 4 oz Cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz Ginger beer
– 1/4 tsp Ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp Ground cloves
– Lime wedges and sprigs of rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and ginger beer.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon and cloves over the top.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prepare and serve)
Peppermint White Russian
A twist on the classic White Russian cocktail, this peppermint variation adds a refreshing and invigorating spin to the original.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces white Russian liqueur (such as Stolichnaya)
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Crushed ice
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add the white Russian liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Add the simple syrup and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg
Perfect for the holiday season, this Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg is a creamy and indulgent twist on the classic martini. With the warm spices of nutmeg and the sweetness of eggnog, you’ll be sipping like it’s Christmas all year round.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz eggnog
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, eggnog, heavy cream, and nutmeg to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the martini into a chilled glass.
5. Drizzle the simple syrup around the rim of the glass.
6. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail recipe that’s ready in just 5 minutes.
Gingerbread Old Fashioned
Experience the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread in a unique take on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 oz gingerbread-flavored syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Gingerbread Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Combine the syrup ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool.
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, gingerbread syrup, and bitters.
2. Fill the glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Express an orange peel over the drink (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon
Escape the chill of winter with this comforting and aromatic cocktail, infused with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cinnamon and stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the rum and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt.
6. Pour into mugs or glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Candy Cane Martini
Get ready to celebrate the festive season with this sweet and refreshing Candy Cane Martini! Made with peppermint schnapps, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and crushed candy canes for garnish, this holiday cocktail is sure to bring cheer to your party.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz peppermint schnapps
– 1 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the peppermint schnapps, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and vodka.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None
Mulled Wine Sangria
Mulled Wine Sangria Recipe: A Warm and Fruity Delight
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Combine the warmth of fall with the sophistication of a classic cocktail by adding pumpkin spice to a White Russian. This unique drink is perfect for crisp autumn evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Cooking Time: None
Cranberry Orange Mimosa
Elevate your brunch game with this refreshing twist on the classic mimosa. The tartness of cranberries and sweetness of orange come together to create a harmonious blend.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup champagne or prosecco
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry juice and orange juice.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the champagne or prosecco and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cranberry Orange Mimosa over the ice.
6. Garnish with a slice of orange and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
Elevate your fall gatherings with this delicious Apple Cider Bourbon Smash, a refreshing twist on the classic bourbon smash.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1 oz lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Slices of apple and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add bourbon, apple cider, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
Cooking Time: None! This is a refreshing cocktail, not a dish that requires cooking time.
Enjoy your Apple Cider Bourbon Smash!
Chocolate Peppermint Martini
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this refreshing twist on the classic martini, combining rich chocolate and invigorating peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1 ounce vodka
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and vodka.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and stir gently.
6. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and enjoy!)
Spiked Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a twist on the classic hot chocolate recipe! This spiked peppermint hot chocolate combines rich chocolate, creamy milk, and the invigorating flavor of peppermint liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint liqueur (such as Crème de Menthe)
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee (optional)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and peppermint liqueur.
4. If using espresso or coffee, stir it in at this point.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Gin Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Cranberry Gin Fizz, perfect for the holiday season or anytime you want to add a touch of festive cheer. This fizzy drink combines tart cranberries, crisp gin, and sweet lime juice for a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup cranberry juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 3-4 oz club soda
• Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Enjoy your Cranberry Gin Fizz!
Holiday Pomegranate Margarita
Holiday Pomegranate Margarita Recipe
A festive twist on a classic cocktail, this Holiday Pomegranate Margarita is perfect for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce pomegranate juice
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh pomegranate seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and pomegranate juice to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Maple Bourbon Eggnog
Warm up with this rich and creamy eggnog infused with the sweet, velvety taste of maple syrup and a hint of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
– Nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 160°F to 170°F.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks until smooth.
4. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in bourbon whiskey, if using.
6. Pour into a large bowl or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with nutmeg before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 2 hours)
Rosemary Pear Prosecco Punch
Rosemary Pear Prosecco Punch Recipe
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and unique punch that combines the flavors of rosemary, pears, and Prosecco.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Prosecco
– 1 cup pear juice (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, bruised
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and sliced
– Ice cubes
– Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine Prosecco, pear juice, and simple syrup. Stir to combine.
2. Add the bruised rosemary leaves and let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
3. Just before serving, add the sliced pears to the pitcher.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a fresh rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None needed! This punch is ready in just 30 minutes or less.
Toasted Coconut Snowball Cocktail
Get ready to transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this creamy and dreamy cocktail!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces coconut rum
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 ounce toasted coconut syrup (see note)
– Splash of pineapple juice
– Ice
– Toasted coconut flakes and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the coconut rum, white chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, and toasted coconut syrup.
3. Shake until well combined and chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of pineapple juice.
6. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Spiced Vanilla Chai Toddy
Warm up with this delightful Spiced Vanilla Chai Toddy recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or chai blend
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup vanilla-flavored milk (or regular milk with 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup water to a simmer.
2. Add tea leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Let steep for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture reaches your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a large mug.
4. Add vanilla-flavored milk and stir well to combine.
5. If desired, add honey to taste.
6. Serve hot and cozy up with this soothing Spiced Vanilla Chai Toddy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to toast the holiday season with these festive and cozy cocktail recipes! From Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mules to Hot Buttered Rums with Cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. Try a Peppermint White Russian or Candy Cane Martini for a sweet treat, or go bold with a Mulled Wine Sangria or Pumpkin Spice White Russian. For a more classic vibe, opt for an Eggnog Martini with Nutmeg or a Gingerbread Old Fashioned. With these 18 recipes, you’ll be well-equipped to host cozy celebrations all season long.
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