Ah, the holiday season—the time of year when our calendars are filled with festive gatherings, our homes are adorned with twinkling lights, and the aroma of freshly baked pies wafts through the air. But let's be honest: no holiday party is truly complete without a well-crafted cocktail in hand. After all, even Santa needs a little something to keep warm on those chilly nights! This year, elevate your celebrations with some exquisite holiday cocktails that are as delightful to sip as they are to share.
Candy Cane Holiday cocktails
Candy Cane Bliss Martini
Nothing says holiday cheer like the cool, minty sweetness of a candy cane, and this cocktail takes it to the next level. With just the right mix of creamy and peppermint flavors, this festive drink will be the star of any holiday soirée.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz vanilla rum
- 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
Method:
- Shake all ingredients together in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a candy cane for that extra festive touch.
Tis’ the Reason Coquito
If the holidays had a signature cocktail, the Coquito might just be it. This velvety drink, a creation by Tiffanie Barriere of Netflix’s Drink Masters and High on the Hog, takes the traditional Puerto Rican favorite to the next level. Rich, creamy, and undeniably indulgent, this is the drink you didn’t know your holiday party needed.
Ingredients:
- 12 large eggs
- 1 lb sugar
- 1 tsp fresh nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 14 oz coconut cream
- 14 oz condensed milk
- 8 oz Don Q Oak Barrel Spiced Rum
- 8 oz Don Q Gold Rum
- 2 oz Green Chartreuse
- 2 oz rich vanilla syrup
Method:
- Crack eggs into a bowl and add sugar. Beat until the sugar dissolves.
- Slowly whisk in the cream to avoid curdling. Add the rum and chartreuse, stirring until the mixture turns light brown.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, uncovered.
- Whisk 2 egg whites into a meringue, then chill until ready to serve.
- Ladle into stemmed glasses, topping each with meringue and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
This recipe serves 8–12, but be prepared—your guests will definitely come back for seconds!
Cheeky Espresso Martini A Little Buzz for the Busy Elf
Feeling the holiday hustle? This rich, caffeinated cocktail will keep you fueled and fabulous through all those late-night gift wrapping marathons.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz Cheeky Espresso Syrup
- Garnish: three coffee beans
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with three coffee beans for good luck.
Cranberry Sparkle
Cranberry Champagne Holiday Cocktails
This simple yet stunning drink adds the perfect pop of red to your holiday table. Effortless and elegant, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with hors d'oeuvres.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of chilled Prosecco
- Cranberry juice or syrup
Method:
- Pour Prosecco into glasses.
- Add cranberry juice or syrup for a festive splash of color.
San Diego Christmas Ale Cocktail
Christmas Ale San Diego
Ingredients
- 1 shot of vanilla vodka
- 1 shot Kahlúa Liqueur
- 1 glass of Christmas ale
Combine all of the ingredients. Dust the rim of each glass with cinnamon for a flavorful kick!
Mulled Wine Magic
Mulled Wine Holiday Cocktails
Cozy up by the fire with this warm and aromatic holiday classic. Mulled wine is like a hug in a mug, filled with spices and the sweet flavors of the season.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon works beautifully)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 4 cloves and 3 star anise
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve in mugs and garnish with an orange slice.
Kid-Friendly Apple Cider Delight
Apple Cider San Diego
Not everyone at your party will be indulging in spirits, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy something festive. This non-alcoholic cider is perfect for kids (and adults who want a warm, spiced drink without the buzz).
Ingredients:
- 2 quarts apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 cloves and 2 allspice berries
- 1 orange, sliced
Method:
- Simmer all ingredients in a saucepan for 10 minutes.
- Serve warm in mugs for a toasty treat.
The Perfect Holiday Send-Off
Whether you're hosting a glamorous cocktail party or a laid-back family gathering, these festive drinks are sure to bring joy to everyone around you. The beauty of holiday cocktails isn’t just in their flavors but in the way they bring people together, one sip at a time. So, raise your glass to good cheer, great company, and a season filled with sparkle and laughter. Cheers to making the holidays unforgettable—one cocktail at a time!
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