Christmas is that magical time of year when everything seems a bit brighter, the air is crisper, and everyone is in the mood to celebrate.
And what better way to raise holiday spirits than with a festive Christmas cocktail in hand?
Whether you’re hosting an epic holiday bash or having a cozy family get-together, there’s always room for a splash of creativity when it comes to the drinks you serve.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into Christmas Cocktails Recipes that are sure to jingle your bells.
From whimsical punches that will have Santa coming back for seconds, to delightful drinks that even the Grinch wouldn’t refuse, we’ve got you covered.
So, dust off your cocktail shaker, grab your garnish, and let’s get into the real spirit of the season—because no one wants a boring old glass of eggnog when you could be sipping on something like the “Mistletoe Martini.”
51 Amazingly Delicious Christmas Cocktail Recipes
Let’s kick off with the crown jewel of this article—51 brilliantly festive and unique Christmas cocktails that will have your guests talking until New Year’s.
These drinks aren’t just seasonal; they’re fun, flavorful, and filled with the kind of Christmas cheer that’ll make even a snowman feel warm.
1. Santa’s Sleigh Ride Punch
- Description: This punch is as jolly as Santa himself! With a blend of cranberry juice, vodka, and triple sec, it’s perfect for large gatherings or family Christmas Eve parties.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup vodka
- ½ cup triple sec
- Fresh mint and cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine the cranberry juice, vodka, and triple sec in a large punch bowl.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and mint leaves before serving.
- Recipe Notes: Serve this punch in a festive bowl with a giant candy cane stirrer for added fun!
2. Mistletoe Martini
- Description: Bright and tangy, this cranberry-based martini is a kiss under the mistletoe in a glass. Perfect for a romantic holiday evening or to toast with friends.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint for garnish
- Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine gin, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with cranberries and a mint sprig.
- Recipe Notes: If you’re feeling extra festive, rim the glass with crushed candy cane!
3. Eggnog Espresso Delight
- Description: For those who love both coffee and Christmas, this eggnog twist is sure to keep you going all through the holiday season.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 oz bourbon
- A dash of nutmeg
- Instructions:
- In a glass, combine the eggnog and espresso. Stir in the bourbon.
- Serve hot or cold, depending on your preference.
- Top with a dash of nutmeg.
- Recipe Notes: For a cold version, add ice and use a chilled glass. For hot, use a mug and serve with whipped cream!
4. Candy Cane Cooler
- Description: A cool and minty delight, this peppermint-infused cocktail will have you feeling festive with every sip.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz vodka
- ½ oz grenadine
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix the schnapps, vodka, and grenadine in a shaker with ice.
- Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes around the rim.
- Recipe Notes: This one’s a real crowd-pleaser—crunching the candy cane as you sip adds a fun twist!
5. Gingerbread Old Fashioned
- Description: A holiday twist on a classic, this cocktail combines the rich, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the smoothness of bourbon.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz gingerbread syrup (you can make it by mixing molasses, sugar, and spices)
- 2 dashes bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
- Instructions:
- In a glass, stir together bourbon, gingerbread syrup, and bitters over ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel.
- Recipe Notes: Pair this cocktail with gingerbread cookies for a delightful experience.
6. Rudolph’s Red Nose Fizz
- Description: This vibrant and bubbly cocktail, with its striking red hue, pays homage to everyone’s favorite reindeer.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz club soda
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix the cranberry juice and vodka in a shaker with ice.
- Strain into a glass and top with club soda.
- Garnish with a few cranberries floating on top.
- Recipe Notes: For extra fun, freeze cranberries before using them as garnish.
7. Frosty’s White Christmas Margarita
- Description: A snowy, white twist on the classic margarita. Think tropical vibes with a wintery makeover.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz coconut milk
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz triple sec
- Shredded coconut for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a margarita glass.
- Rim the glass with shredded coconut for a snowy effect.
- Recipe Notes: Perfect for those dreaming of a white Christmas—beach style!
8. The Grinch Sour
- Description: A sour cocktail that’s as green as the Grinch but much sweeter in taste!
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz Midori (melon liqueur)
- 1 oz vodka
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Lime slice for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake Midori, vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with a lime slice.
- Recipe Notes: Add a dash of club soda for a little extra fizz.
9. Sleigh Bell Sangria
- Description: A rich and fruity Christmas sangria perfect for sipping by the fire.
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup brandy
- Sliced apples, oranges, and cranberries
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve over ice with a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Recipe Notes: Make this the night before to let the flavors really meld together.
10. North Pole Nog
- Description: Creamy, smooth, and packed with Christmas spirit, this nog will warm even the coldest night.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz rum
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 oz vanilla syrup
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix rum, eggnog, and vanilla syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Strain into a glass and sprinkle nutmeg on top.
- Recipe Notes: Serve chilled or warm it up for a cozy treat by the fireplace.
11. Snowy Day Martini
- Description: A frosty, sweet martini that’s as cold as a December morning, but warms your heart.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
- 1 oz cream
- White sugar for rimming
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a sugar-rimmed martini glass.
- Recipe Notes: Rim the glass with a little frosting and dip it in white sugar for an icy look.
12. Cinnamon Cranberry Old Fashioned
- Description: A festive twist on the classic Old Fashioned with cranberry and cinnamon notes.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon syrup
- Orange peel for garnish
- Instructions:
- Stir bourbon, cranberry juice, and cinnamon syrup with ice.
- Serve over a large ice cube and garnish with an orange peel.
- Recipe Notes: This drink pairs beautifully with Christmas cookies!
13. Elf’s Delight
- Description: Sweet, minty, and totally fun, this cocktail will transport you straight to the North Pole.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 1 oz milk
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes.
- Recipe Notes: Serve with a mini candy cane on the side to keep the elf spirit alive!
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14. Spiced Apple Mule
- Description: A festive twist on the classic mule with hints of apple cider and cinnamon.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz apple cider
- ½ oz lime juice
- Ginger beer for topping
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine vodka, cider, and lime juice in a mug filled with ice.
- Top with ginger beer and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Recipe Notes: Serve this in a classic copper mule mug for the full experience.
15. Winter Wonderland Spritz
- Description: Light, bubbly, and fresh, this spritz is perfect for those who love a hint of sweetness in their drink.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- 1 oz vodka
- Sparkling wine
- Frozen cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Pour elderflower liqueur and vodka into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with sparkling wine and garnish with frozen cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: This is a great make-ahead drink for holiday parties.
16. Jolly Holly Julep
- Description: A mint julep gets a holly jolly makeover with cranberries and mint.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Instructions:
- Muddle mint leaves with cranberry juice and simple syrup in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice.
- Stir and garnish with fresh mint and cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: You can add a splash of club soda for a fizzy twist.
17. Christmas Cookie Shooter
- Description: This sweet shooter tastes just like a Christmas cookie in liquid form!
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz Irish cream
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- ½ oz vanilla vodka
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a shot glass.
- Recipe Notes: Rim the glass with red and green sprinkles for extra flair.
18. Jack Frost Margarita
- Description: This icy blue margarita is a wintery twist on the classic, bringing tropical flavors to the cold season.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- ½ oz lime juice
- Coconut flakes for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass rimmed with coconut flakes.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Recipe Notes: The color of this drink makes it an eye-catching addition to your holiday table!
19. Holiday Spiced Old Fashioned
- Description: A traditional Old Fashioned gets a holiday upgrade with winter spices and maple syrup.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz maple syrup
- 2 dashes of bitters
- Cinnamon stick and orange peel for garnish
- Instructions:
- Stir bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters in a glass with ice.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange peel.
- Recipe Notes: The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, making this drink extra cozy.
20. Reindeer Rum Punch
- Description: This punch is fruity, fun, and full of Christmas spirit—perfect for a crowd!
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark rum
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup orange juice
- Sliced oranges and cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a large punch bowl.
- Add ice and garnish with sliced oranges and cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: Serve in festive glasses with candy cane stirrers for extra holiday flair!
21. Holly Jolly Gin Fizz
- Description: Light, refreshing, and full of holiday sparkle, this gin fizz is as festive as they come.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass and top with club soda.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds.
- Recipe Notes: The fizz adds a festive sparkle to this refreshing drink.
22. Gingerbread Man Martini
- Description: This dessert-like martini tastes just like a gingerbread cookie in a glass.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz gingerbread syrup
- Crushed gingerbread cookies for rimming
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass rimmed with crushed gingerbread cookies.
- Recipe Notes: Serve this drink as a holiday dessert cocktail to really impress your guests.
23. Santa’s Spiked Hot Chocolate
- Description: Hot chocolate with a boozy twist, this drink is a winter warmer that’ll bring joy to any holiday gathering.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot chocolate
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps and Baileys.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Recipe Notes: Perfect for sipping while watching Christmas movies by the fire.
24. Nutcracker Negroni
- Description: A holiday spin on the classic Negroni, with warming winter spices and a hint of orange.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish
- Instructions:
- Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
- Recipe Notes: This is a bold and bittersweet drink that’s great for sophisticated holiday gatherings.
25. Sleigh Ride Sangria
- Description: A festive white wine sangria with winter fruits and a splash of holiday cheer.
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle white wine
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup brandy
- Sliced apples, pears, and cranberries
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve over ice and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Recipe Notes: This is an easy make-ahead drink that’s perfect for holiday parties.
26. Jingle Juice
- Description: A fruity, fizzy cocktail that’s just as fun to make as it is to drink. Perfect for holiday parties.
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle Prosecco
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup vodka
- Fresh cranberries and lime slices for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix Prosecco, cranberry juice, and vodka in a large pitcher.
- Serve over ice and garnish with cranberries and lime slices.
- Recipe Notes: Add a splash of club soda for extra fizz!
27. Winter Spice Mule
- Description: A wintery twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this cocktail is spiced with ginger and cinnamon.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine vodka and lime juice in a glass filled with ice.
- Top with ginger beer and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Recipe Notes: Serve in a classic copper mule mug for the full effect.
28. Silent Night Sour
- Description: A beautifully balanced whiskey sour with a festive twist, thanks to cranberry and rosemary.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz cranberry juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Rosemary sprig for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake bourbon, lemon juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with a rosemary sprig.
- Recipe Notes: The rosemary adds a subtle, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry.
29. Polar Bear Punch
- Description: This punch is bright, bubbly, and perfect for any holiday celebration with its refreshing citrus and bubbly Prosecco.
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle Prosecco
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda
- ½ cup orange juice
- Fresh mint and orange slices for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine Prosecco, soda, and orange juice in a punch bowl.
- Add ice and garnish with fresh mint and orange slices.
- Recipe Notes: Light and refreshing, this punch is perfect for holiday brunches.
30. Twinkling Lights Spritzer
- Description: This bright and fizzy spritzer brings a touch of sparkle to your holiday table.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- 1 oz gin
- Club soda
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix elderflower liqueur and gin in a glass with ice.
- Top with club soda and garnish with pomegranate seeds.
- Recipe Notes: The pomegranate seeds add a festive pop of color, making this a perfect drink for Christmas dinner.
31. Ginger Snap Gin Fizz
- Description: This cocktail brings the spicy sweetness of gingerbread cookies into a refreshing gin fizz. It’s like a liquid ginger snap with bubbles!
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz ginger syrup
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Club soda
- Gingerbread cookie for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake the gin, ginger syrup, and lemon juice with ice.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
- Garnish with a gingerbread cookie for a fun holiday touch.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra festive kick, rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookies.
32. Peppermint Patty
- Description: This chocolatey, minty cocktail is like drinking a Peppermint Patty! Rich, smooth, and perfect for sipping by the Christmas tree.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz crème de menthe
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- 1 oz vodka
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings.
- Recipe Notes: Serve this with a candy cane stirrer for extra holiday fun.
33. Hot Buttered Rum
- Description: A cozy, warming drink that’s perfect for curling up by the fire. Hot Buttered Rum is a true Christmas classic, with a buttery richness that’s hard to resist.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz dark rum
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 pinch cinnamon and nutmeg
- Hot water
- Instructions:
- In a mug, combine the butter, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Pour hot water over the mixture and stir until melted.
- Add the rum and stir again before serving.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra indulgent touch, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
34. Mulled Wine
- Description: A classic winter drink, mulled wine is fragrant, spicy, and warm—just the thing to sip while wrapping presents or hosting a holiday party.
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 orange, sliced
- ¼ cup brandy
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 2 tbsp honey
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat on low for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve warm with a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Recipe Notes: Do not let the wine boil—it should only be gently simmering to keep the flavors mellow and rich.
35. Winter Citrus Martini
- Description: Bright and zesty, this martini brings together winter citrus flavors like grapefruit and orange for a refreshing cocktail that still feels seasonal.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- ½ oz orange liqueur
- Grapefruit twist for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
- Recipe Notes: Add a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant holiday garnish.
36. Snowball Martini
- Description: This snowy white martini is as pretty as freshly fallen snow, with a creamy, sweet taste that’s perfect for Christmas parties.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz coconut cream
- ½ oz white chocolate liqueur
- Coconut flakes for rimming
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass rimmed with coconut flakes.
- Recipe Notes: This drink looks beautiful in frosted glasses—chill them ahead of time for extra effect!
37. Christmas Cranberry Mojito
- Description: A festive twist on the classic mojito, this drink features tart cranberries and a hint of mint to keep things fresh and fun.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 tbsp simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Club soda
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a glass.
- Add rum and cranberry juice, then fill the glass with ice.
- Top with club soda and garnish with cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra festive flair, freeze cranberries ahead of time and use them as garnish.
38. Merry Margarita
- Description: This Christmas margarita is both festive and flavorful, with a burst of cranberry and a limey twist. It’s like Christmas in a glass!
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- ½ oz triple sec
- Lime wedge and cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a few cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: Swap the salt rim for a sugar rim if you prefer your margaritas sweet!
39. Cinnamon Toast Punch
- Description: A cozy punch with cinnamon, rum, and a hint of vanilla that’ll remind you of cinnamon toast on a cold winter morning.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark rum
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup vanilla almond milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat on low until warm.
- Serve in mugs with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top.
- Recipe Notes: This punch is best served warm, making it perfect for those cold winter nights.
40. Christmas Cheer Spritzer
- Description: Light, fruity, and oh-so-festive, this spritzer combines prosecco with cranberry and lime for a bubbly treat.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- Prosecco
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Pour cranberry and lime juice into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with prosecco and garnish with fresh cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: Serve this in tall, elegant glasses to add an extra touch of class to your holiday gatherings.
41. Cozy Cocoa Rum
- Description: This warm cocktail combines hot chocolate with spiced rum for a decadent winter treat.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot chocolate
- 2 oz spiced rum
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix hot chocolate and rum in a mug.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Recipe Notes: Serve this after a long day of Christmas shopping for a warm and cozy treat.
42. Caramel Apple Cider Martini
- Description: This sweet and tart martini tastes just like caramel apples, with a boozy kick to warm you up on cold nights.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz caramel syrup
- 1 oz apple cider
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake vodka, caramel syrup, and apple cider with ice.
- Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Recipe Notes: Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch.
43. Santa’s Nightcap
- Description: This rich and creamy cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fire before settling in for a long winter’s nap.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz heavy cream
- ½ oz maple syrup
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Sprinkle nutmeg on top.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra indulgent drink, swap the heavy cream for eggnog!
44. Polar Express Punch
- Description: This fruity punch will transport you to a winter wonderland with every sip. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for holiday brunches.
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle sparkling wine
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup orange juice
- Fresh cranberries and mint leaves for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large punch bowl.
- Serve over ice and garnish with cranberries and mint.
- Recipe Notes: This punch pairs beautifully with breakfast pastries for a holiday
45. Fireside Old Fashioned
- Description: A warm, smoky twist on the classic Old Fashioned with a hint of orange and spice, perfect for sipping by a roaring fire.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish
- Instructions:
- Stir bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with ice in a glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra warming kick, try using a smoked glass for that fireside flavor.
46. Frostbite Fizz
- Description: This icy blue cocktail is sweet, tart, and topped with a splash of sparkling wine for a refreshing twist.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 1 oz vodka
- ½ oz lime juice
- Sparkling wine for topping
- Lime slice for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake blue curaçao, vodka, and lime juice with ice.
- Strain into a glass and top with sparkling wine.
- Garnish with a lime slice.
- Recipe Notes: Serve in tall glasses for a beautiful layered effect.
47. Santa’s Little Helper
- Description: This rich, dessert-like cocktail combines coffee liqueur and vanilla vodka, making it perfect for after dinner or late-night gift wrapping!
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Top with chocolate shavings.
- Recipe Notes: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a splash of caramel syrup.
48. Christmas Cosmo
- Description: A holiday twist on the classic Cosmopolitan, this cocktail is bright, tart, and oh-so-festive with a splash of cranberry.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz triple sec
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- ½ oz lime juice
- Lime twist and cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice with ice.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a lime twist and cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: Add a dash of orange bitters for an extra flavor punch.
49. Cinnamon Candy Cane
- Description: This peppermint and cinnamon-flavored cocktail tastes just like Christmas candy in a glass. It’s sweet, spicy, and oh-so-merry!
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz cinnamon whiskey
- 1 oz cream
- Crushed candy cane for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Garnish with crushed candy cane.
- Recipe Notes: Serve with a candy cane stirrer for an extra festive touch.
50. Holly Berry Punch
- Description: A fruity, bubbly punch that’s perfect for serving at Christmas brunch or a holiday party. Light, refreshing, and full of berry goodness!
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle Prosecco
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- ½ cup orange juice
- Fresh pomegranate seeds and mint leaves for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large punch bowl.
- Serve over ice and garnish with pomegranate seeds and mint leaves.
- Recipe Notes: You can substitute sparkling water for Prosecco to make a refreshing mocktail version.
51. Christmas Morning Mimosa
- Description: A festive take on the classic mimosa, this cocktail is perfect for Christmas morning or brunch gatherings. With a mix of cranberry and orange, it’s a holiday hit!
- Ingredients:
- 1 bottle sparkling wine
- ½ cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup orange juice
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprig for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix cranberry and orange juice in a large pitcher.
- Pour sparkling wine into glasses and top with the juice mixture.
- Garnish with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
- Recipe Notes: The cranberry and rosemary garnish adds a festive pop to this classic drink.
RELATED READING: Easy and Delicious Christmas Vodka Cocktails
Classic Christmas Cocktails With a Twist
Let’s talk about the classic Christmas cocktails we all know and love—only we’re giving them a little festive makeover. These drinks are the old favorites, but with just enough holiday magic to make them feel new again. Perfect for anyone who loves tradition but doesn’t mind shaking things up a bit.
1. Spiced Rum Hot Toddy
- Description: A cozy drink that warms you from the inside out, the Hot Toddy is a Christmas classic. This version has a little something extra—spiced rum!
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz spiced rum
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 lemon slice
- Hot water
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
- Instructions:
- In a mug, mix the spiced rum, honey, and lemon.
- Top with hot water and stir.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for extra warmth.
- Twist: You can add a dash of ginger syrup for an extra kick!
2. Gingerbread Eggnog
- Description: Nothing says Christmas like eggnog, but why stop at the usual? Add a little gingerbread syrup to your favorite eggnog recipe and watch the flavor explode.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 oz gingerbread syrup
- 1 oz rum (optional)
- Whipped cream and cinnamon for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine the eggnog, gingerbread syrup, and rum in a glass.
- Stir well and top with whipped cream and cinnamon.
- Twist: Serve in a mug with a gingerbread cookie on the side—because why not?
3. White Christmas Mule
- Description: This twist on the classic Moscow Mule replaces ginger beer with a creamy coconut flavor, giving it a snowy, tropical vibe perfect for the holidays.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz lime juice
- ½ oz coconut cream
- Ginger beer for topping
- Mint leaves and coconut flakes for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake the vodka, lime juice, and coconut cream with ice.
- Strain into a copper mule mug filled with ice and top with ginger beer.
- Garnish with mint leaves and a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
- Twist: Add frozen cranberries for a festive, colorful touch.
4. Hot Chocolate Peppermint Martini
- Description: Turn your cozy hot chocolate into an elegant martini with the addition of peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka. Perfect for a post-dinner dessert drink.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot chocolate
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz vanilla vodka
- Whipped cream and crushed candy cane for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix hot chocolate with schnapps and vodka.
- Pour into a martini glass and top with whipped cream and crushed candy cane.
- Twist: Serve it in a chilled glass for a contrast of temperatures.
5. Rosemary Gin & Tonic
- Description: A fragrant and herbal twist on the classic gin and tonic, this cocktail gets a festive makeover with fresh rosemary and a splash of cranberry juice.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- Tonic water for topping
- Fresh rosemary sprig and cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine gin and cranberry juice in a glass filled with ice.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and cranberries.
- Twist: Light the rosemary briefly with a match to release its aroma and enhance the flavor of the drink.
Non-Alcoholic Christmas Mocktails
Not everyone is looking for a boozy holiday drink, and that’s perfectly okay! Here are a few Non-Alcoholic Christmas Mocktails that will keep the festive spirit alive without the alcohol.
Whether you’re serving guests who prefer not to drink or looking for something the kids can enjoy, these mocktails are sure to be crowd-pleasers.
1. Frosty’s Hot Cocoa (Non-Alcoholic)
- Description: A rich, creamy hot chocolate with a twist of peppermint—perfect for warming up after a chilly day of snowball fights or sledding.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot chocolate
- 1 tbsp peppermint syrup
- Whipped cream and mini marshmallows for garnish
- Instructions:
- Prepare hot chocolate and stir in peppermint syrup.
- Top with whipped cream and mini marshmallows.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra festive touch, drizzle chocolate syrup on top and add a candy cane stirrer.
2. Candy Cane Fizz
- Description: A sweet and sparkling drink that combines the flavors of peppermint and cranberry for a festive burst of flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz peppermint syrup
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- Club soda for topping
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix peppermint syrup and cranberry juice in a glass with ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes around the rim.
- Recipe Notes: You can substitute sparkling water for a lighter fizz if preferred.
3. Winter Wonderland Spritzer
- Description: Light, fruity, and refreshing, this spritzer has the perfect balance of sweetness and sparkle for any holiday party.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz elderflower syrup
- 1 oz apple juice
- Sparkling water for topping
- Frozen berries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine elderflower syrup and apple juice in a glass.
- Top with sparkling water and frozen berries.
- Recipe Notes: For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of lime juice.
4. Rudolph’s Red Nose Mocktail
- Description: A colorful and refreshing cranberry-lime mocktail that’s sweet and tart, just like Rudolph’s nose!
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 tbsp simple syrup
- Club soda for topping
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Instructions:
- Mix cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in a glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and top with club soda.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries.
- Recipe Notes: Serve in clear glasses to show off the beautiful red color.
5. Gingerbread Milkshake
- Description: This creamy, indulgent milkshake is full of holiday spices and flavors, perfect for kids and adults alike who want to enjoy the festive season without alcohol.
- Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp molasses
- ½ tsp ground ginger and cinnamon
- Whipped cream and gingerbread cookie for garnish
- Instructions:
- Blend ice cream, milk, molasses, ginger, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream and a gingerbread cookie.
- Recipe Notes: Add a dash of nutmeg for extra holiday flavor!
Christmas Cocktail Party Tips
Hosting a holiday party? Whether you’re planning a small family gathering or a big festive bash, serving Christmas cocktails is a surefire way to impress your guests.
Here are some top tips to make your cocktail party sparkle like the Christmas tree!
1. Set the Scene with Festive Glassware
- Presentation is everything! Use festive glasses—think gold-rimmed martini glasses or cozy mugs with holiday patterns—to serve your cocktails. You can also tie small bows around the stems of your glasses or use holiday-themed straws.
2. Garnish Like a Pro
- The key to a great cocktail is in the garnish. Add fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, candy canes, or cinnamon sticks to give your drinks that extra holiday flair. Rim your glasses with colored sugar or crushed candy canes for added visual appeal.
3. Keep It Simple
- Don’t overcomplicate things. Focus on a few signature Christmas cocktails that you can batch ahead of time. Punches and sangrias are great options for serving a crowd without spending the whole night at the bar.
4. Create a Festive Atmosphere
- Set the mood with holiday music, twinkling lights, and a beautifully decorated drink station. Encourage guests to get creative with their drinks by setting up a “garnish bar” where they can add their own personal touch.
5. Don’t Forget the Mocktails
- It’s always thoughtful to have a few non-alcoholic options for guests who prefer not to drink. Serve Christmas mocktails in the same festive glassware as your cocktails to make everyone feel included in the fun.
Christmas Cocktails Pairings
Christmas cocktails aren’t just about the drinks—they’re about the whole experience! To really take your holiday party to the next level, consider pairing your festive drinks with delicious appetizers, desserts, and even main courses.
Here are some great food and drink pairings to keep the holiday spirit flowing.
1. Eggnog and Gingerbread Cookies
- The creamy richness of eggnog pairs perfectly with the spicy sweetness of gingerbread cookies. Serve them together for a nostalgic holiday treat that will bring back memories of childhood Christmases.
2. Mulled Wine and Roasted Chestnuts
- Mulled wine, with its warm spices and fruity flavors, pairs beautifully with roasted chestnuts. The nutty, smoky flavor of the chestnuts complements the richness of the wine, making this the perfect pairing for a cozy night by the fire.
3. Cranberry Margaritas and Turkey Sliders
- The tart, refreshing flavor of a cranberry margarita cuts through the richness of a turkey slider. Serve these together for a fun and festive holiday snack that’s perfect for mingling at a cocktail party.
4. Spiced Rum Punch and Ham
- The sweet and spicy notes of a spiced rum punch pair wonderfully with the savory, salty flavors of a Christmas ham. This pairing is ideal for a full holiday dinner, balancing the richness of the meat with the warmth of the punch.
5. Peppermint Martini and Chocolate Cake
- A peppermint martini, with its cool, minty flavor, is the perfect complement to a rich chocolate dessert. Serve this duo at the end of your holiday meal to leave your guests feeling festive and satisfied.
By pairing your Christmas cocktails with the right foods, you’ll create an unforgettable holiday experience for your guests. Cheers!
Holiday Cocktail Trends for 2024
As we prepare for the festive season, it’s time to take a look at the holiday cocktail trends that are set to make a splash in 2024. This year, it’s all about creativity, sustainability, and infusing global flavors into your holiday drinks.
1. Eco-Friendly Ingredients
- More and more people are becoming eco-conscious, and this trend is making its way into the world of cocktails. Expect to see a focus on using sustainable, organic ingredients like locally sourced fruits, herbs, and spirits. Zero-waste cocktails are all the rage, with bartenders finding creative ways to use every part of the ingredients.
2. Low-Alcohol & Low-Sugar Cocktails
- Health-conscious consumers are looking for low-alcohol and low-sugar options, even during the indulgent holiday season. Light spritzers, infused sparkling waters, and cocktails with natural sweeteners like honey or agave are becoming more popular, giving you festive flavors without the guilt.
3. Global Flavors
- Bring the world to your glass! In 2024, cocktails are embracing flavors from around the globe. Think chai-spiced cocktails, pomegranate molasses, or hibiscus-infused drinks. These flavors add a unique twist to your Christmas cocktails, offering something fresh and exciting.
4. Festive Garnishes
- This year, cocktail garnishes are bigger, brighter, and bolder. From edible glitter to dramatic fruit and herb displays, cocktails in 2024 are just as much about presentation as they are about flavor. Garnishes will take center stage, adding a whimsical, festive element to your drinks.
Conclusion
Whether you’re shaking up a classic cocktail with a twist or trying out one of the 51 new, festive creations, this guide to Christmas Cocktails Recipes has something for every kind of holiday gathering.
From cozy nights by the fire with a spiced hot toddy to lively holiday parties with punch bowls and spritzers, these drinks will spread plenty of cheer this season.
So raise a glass, gather your loved ones, and toast to a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious cocktails!
Cheers to a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!
