14 Best Christmas Cocktails

The holiday season calls for cocktails that are as festive as your decorations. These 14 best Christmas cocktails combine rich flavors and seasonal spices to make your parties shine. Check out these recipes to create holiday cocktails that’ll bring joy to your gatherings.

Eggnog

Eggnog is a classic holiday treat. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for festive gatherings. If you’re looking to create some delightful eggnog cocktails for your Christmas celebration, here are a few recipes to try.

Classic Eggnog Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups milk
• 5 whole cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 12 egg yolks
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 1/2 cups light rum
• 4 cups light cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Combine milk, cloves, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Heat over lowest setting for 5 minutes. Slowly bring to a boil.
2. In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Whisk until fluffy. Add milk mixture slowly to eggs, whisking constantly. Pour back into saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thick. Do not boil.
3. Strain to remove cloves. Let cool for about an hour.
4. Stir in rum, cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla, and nutmeg. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Peppermint Eggnog

Ingredients:

• 4 cups store-bought eggnog
• 1 cup peppermint schnapps
• Crushed peppermint candies (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix eggnog and peppermint schnapps in a large pitcher.
2. Serve chilled in glasses. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies if desired.

Get creative with your eggnog cocktails this season. Adding flavors like peppermint or chocolate can offer a fresh twist on this timeless favorite.

Tom & Jerry

The Tom & Jerry is a classic Christmas cocktail known for its comforting warmth. This drink is similar to eggnog but served hot. You create it with a batter that incorporates warm spices and is mixed with rum and brandy.

Ingredients for Tom & Jerry Batter

• 3 eggs, separated
• ½ cup of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon of allspice
• ½ teaspoon of cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg

Instructions

1. Beat the egg yolks until they are frothy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth.
3. Mix in the vanilla, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
5. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture.

Directions for Cocktail

• 1 tablespoon of Tom & Jerry batter
• 1 ounce of dark rum
• 1 ounce of brandy
• Hot milk to fill the mug

1. Add a tablespoon of the batter into a mug.
2. Pour in dark rum and brandy.
3. Top with hot milk, filling the mug.
4. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5. Sprinkle extra nutmeg for garnish if desired.

Enjoy the Tom & Jerry during the winter months. This cocktail offers a nostalgic taste perfect for your holiday gatherings.

Cranberry Mimosa

Looking for a festive touch to your holiday gatherings? Try a Cranberry Mimosa. This cocktail is both simple and enjoyable for any holiday brunch or party.

Ingredients

• 3 ounces cranberry juice
• 3 ounces sparkling wine or champagne
• Fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for garnish

Instructions

• Begin by pouring the cranberry juice into a champagne flute.
• Slowly add the sparkling wine, leaving some room for foam.
• Garnish with fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig to enhance the presentation.

For a refreshing variation, consider adding pomegranate juice or a splash of orange liqueur. A sugared rim adds a sweet twist that contrasts beautifully with the tartness. Tailor the sparkling wine to your taste, whether dry or sweet.

Poinsettia

The Poinsettia cocktail is a festive and vibrant drink. It beautifully combines the flavors of cranberry and sparkling wine. Perfect for holiday celebrations.

To make a classic Poinsettia cocktail, you will need:

• 2 oz cranberry juice
• 0.5 oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
• Champagne or sparkling wine

Begin by pouring cranberry juice and orange liqueur into a Champagne flute.

Top it off with your choice of Champagne or sparkling wine. No need to chill or shake beforehand if the juices are cold.

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute nonalcoholic sparkling grape juice for Champagne. Garnish with a twist of orange peel or fresh cranberries to add visual appeal.

Christmas Negroni

The Christmas Negroni is a festive twist on the classic cocktail. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings. Rich flavors and seasonal spices make it unique.

Here’s a simple recipe to make your own Christmas Negroni:

• 1 fl oz Gin
• 1 fl oz Sweet Vermouth
• 1 fl oz Campari

Mix the ingredients with ice in a shaker. Pour into a glass over ice. Add garnishes such as an orange twist or a cinnamon stick for a seasonal touch.

To enhance the flavor, you can infuse your gin with holiday spices:

• Add star anise, cinnamon sticks, and orange peel to your gin
• Let it infuse for 24-36 hours
• Strain before use

Create a festive syrup to elevate your cocktail:

• Combine palm sugar and water in a pan
• Add star anise and cinnamon sticks
• Simmer and reduce until syrupy
• Cool before adding to your cocktail

Glögg (Scandinavian Mulled Wine)

Glögg is a popular Scandinavian mulled wine enjoyed during the Christmas season. It is a warm, spiced beverage that has a rich and comforting flavor. You can easily make it at home with a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1 1/2 cups bourbon (or vodka)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 tablespoon green cardamom pods
• 2 tablespoons ginger root, sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 8 whole cloves

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
2. Heat gently to 175°F (77°C). Avoid boiling.
3. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally.
4. Strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve.
5. Serve hot in glass cups.

Enjoy Glögg as a festive treat with friends and family. You can customize it by adding almonds or more spices.

Snowball

The Snowball cocktail is a classic holiday favorite. It’s a delightful mix of rich flavors with a refreshing twist. This drink became popular in the 1940s in the UK.

To make a Snowball cocktail, you’ll need just a few ingredients. It’s delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• Advocaat: 50 ml
• Sparkling lemonade: 100 ml
• Lime juice: 10 ml
• Ice: A handful
• Cocktail cherries: For garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare a glass: Use a highball glass. Fill it with ice.
2. Mix ingredients: Add advocaat and lime juice. Stir well.
3. Add lemonade: Pour in most of the sparkling lemonade gently. It will foam slightly.
4. Garnish: Thread cherries on a stick and place on top.

You can enjoy your Snowball cocktail immediately. The combination of advocaat, lime, and lemonade provides a rich yet refreshing taste. This drink adds festive spirit to any gathering.

Christmas Punch

Christmas punch is a festive treat that brightens any holiday gathering. With its colorful presentation and delightful taste, it appeals to both kids and adults.

Festive Fruit Punch

Create a non-alcoholic option the whole family can enjoy with this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cranberry juice
• 2 cups of orange juice
• 1 cup of ginger ale
• Lime slices and fresh cranberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine cranberry juice and orange juice in a large bowl.
2. Add ginger ale just before serving.
3. Garnish with lime slices and cranberries.

Sparkling Wine Punch

For a bubbly twist, embrace the festive season with this sparkling wine punch.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of sparkling wine
• 2 cups of pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup of orange liqueur
• Pomegranate seeds and orange slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Mix pomegranate juice and orange liqueur in a punch bowl.
2. Slowly add the sparkling wine.
3. Add pomegranate seeds and orange slices for garnish.

These punch recipes add a joyful spirit to your holiday parties. You can easily adjust the recipes to your liking.

Wassail

Wassail is a traditional holiday drink perfect for Christmas gatherings. Its warm, spiced flavor brings comfort in the winter months.

To make your own wassail, gather these ingredients:

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 clove-studded orange
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 2 star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
2. Bring to a low simmer. Allow it to simmer for an hour.
3. Strain and serve warm.

Wassail can be served with or without alcohol. Add bourbon or brandy to taste. Adding fresh cranberries and apple slices enhances the presentation. This festive drink not only warms your body but also adds a cozy, aromatic touch to your holiday celebrations.

Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander is a classic cocktail perfect for the holiday season. This creamy drink combines rich flavors that will delight your guests. With just a few ingredients, you can create a well-loved dessert cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz brandy
• 1 oz crème de cacao
• 1 oz cream or heavy cream
• Ice cubes
• Freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions:

• Add brandy, crème de cacao, and cream to a cocktail shaker.
• Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
• Shake vigorously for 30 seconds until chilled.
• Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass.
• Garnish with grated nutmeg on top.

Using quality brandy can enhance the taste, though most brands will work. The Brandy Alexander’s smooth texture pairs well with festive meals. It’s not only easy to make but also adds a touch of elegance to gatherings.

Coquito

Coquito is a festive Puerto Rican cocktail. It’s perfect for Christmas celebrations. Think of it as a tropical twist on eggnog. It’s rich and creamy with a delightful coconut flavor. You’ll enjoy its sweet and spicy notes.

To make Coquito, gather these ingredients:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup white rum
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

You might prefer a non-alcoholic version. You can substitute coconut milk for the rum. Add a few drops of rum extract to taste. This will maintain the cocktail’s classic flavor.

If stored in an airtight container, Coquito lasts for months in the fridge. Coconut fat might solidify; let it sit to reach room temperature before shaking and serving.

Serve Coquito chilled. Use small glass cups. Add a cinnamon stick for decoration.

Peppermint Martini

A peppermint martini is a delightful holiday cocktail. This festive drink combines the flavors of mint and chocolate, making it perfect for your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Vodka
• 1 oz Peppermint liqueur
• 0.5 oz Crème de Cacao
• 0.5 oz Half and half
• Crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Rim the Glass: Dip the rim of your martini glass in chocolate syrup. Then dip into crushed candy canes.
2. Prepare the Drink: Fill a shaker with ice. Add vodka, peppermint liqueur, crème de cacao, and half and half.
3. Shake and Strain: Shake the mixture well. Strain into the prepared glass.

Add a candy cane for garnish. This adds an extra peppermint touch and a festive look.

Peppermint martinis are sweet, creamy, and have a pop of holiday color. Perfect for your Christmas parties. Prepare them in just a few minutes.

Classic Manhattan

The Classic Manhattan is a timeless cocktail. Known for its simple yet elegant mix of flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 cocktail cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds until the mix is cold.
4. Strain into a chilled glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.

Hot Toddy

The hot toddy is a classic winter cocktail. It’s perfect for warming you up during chilly Christmas nights. The drink combines whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water. This creates a comforting and soothing beverage.

Classic Hot Toddy Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup hot water
• 1 ½ ounces whiskey
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• Optional: Lemon slice and cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat the water until it simmers.
• Pour the water into a mug.
• Add whisky, honey, and lemon juice.
• Stir until the honey dissolves.
• Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon to your preference.
• Garnish with a lemon slice or cinnamon stick.

For a fruity twist, substitute the water with hot apple cider. Pair this with bourbon or apple brandy for an extra kick. If desired, garnish with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick. This variation offers a flavorful, festive option for your holiday drinks list.