Get ready to jingle all the way with these 18 festive holiday drink recipes that will make your gatherings merry and bright! As the snowflakes fall outside, warm up your spirits with a selection of sweet and savory concoctions that combine the best of winter flavors. From classic eggnog and hot chocolate to more adventurous mulled wine and spiced pear sangria, we’ve got you covered for the holiday season.
Spiced Apple Cider with Rum
This recipe combines the warmth of spiced apple cider with a hint of rum, perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall or winter evening. With its inviting aroma and flavors, this drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 6-8 whole cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it steep for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the cider into mugs or heat-proof glasses.
5. Add 1-2 tablespoons of dark rum to each mug, depending on your desired level of spiciness.
6. If desired, drizzle a spoonful of honey over the top for added sweetness.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Warm up with this refreshing twist on classic hot chocolate! This Peppermint White Hot Chocolate recipe combines rich and creamy white hot chocolate with the invigorating flavor of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming.
2. Remove from heat and add white chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
3. Add peppermint extract and sugar. Whisk until combined.
4. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your Peppermint White Hot Chocolate!
Cranberry Orange Sparkler
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this vibrant and flavorful cocktail that combines the tartness of cranberries with the warmth of orange liqueur. This Cranberry Orange Sparkler is perfect for toasting with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Sliced orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice.
2. Pour in the cranberry juice and orange liqueur.
3. Stir in the lime juice to combine.
4. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice in glasses and garnish with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None needed! This cocktail is ready to serve.
Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg
Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg: A Creamy and Warm Winter Treat
This recipe combines the richness of eggnog with the smoothness of bourbon and the warmth of nutmeg, perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the bourbon whiskey and nutmeg.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves
Warm Up with Mulled Wine
On a chilly winter evening, there’s nothing quite like a rich and spicy mulled wine to cozy up with friends and family. This recipe adds the warmth of cinnamon and cloves to create a deliciously festive drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 sticks cinnamon
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 2 oranges, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Add the sliced oranges and lemons to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and add the brown sugar and water. Stir until dissolved.
6. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or glasses, discarding the solids.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Latte with Whipped Cream
This seasonal drink combines the spices of gingerbread with the richness of whipped cream, perfect for sipping on a chilly winter morning or afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
– Whipped cream and additional ground cinnamon for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat with the cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the brewed coffee or espresso.
4. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, if desired.
5. Sprinkle additional ground cinnamon on top for a festive touch.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla Ice Cream
Warm up with a comforting Hot Buttered Rum paired with creamy Vanilla Ice Cream!
Hot Buttered Rum
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces dark rum
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the brown sugar, whisking until dissolved.
3. Pour in the milk and rum; stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream, milk, and sugar.
2. Add the vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
3. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Assembly
1. Pour the hot buttered rum mixture into a mug or glass.
2. Serve with scoops of cold Vanilla Ice Cream.
Pomegranate Champagne Punch
Add a touch of elegance to your gatherings with this refreshing Pomegranate Champagne Punch. The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this drink is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 cup champagne or sparkling wine
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, champagne or sparkling wine, and lemon-lime soda.
2. Stir in simple syrup until dissolved.
3. Add freshly squeezed lime juice and stir gently.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with slices of orange, lemon, and lime.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Candy Cane Martini
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and tangy Candy Cane Martini recipe. This refreshing drink is perfect for Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, or just a fun treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (for garnish)
– Crushed ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and peppermint schnapps to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 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.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Enjoy your Candy Cane Martini!
Spiked Eggnog Coffee
Elevate your morning coffee routine with this unique and delicious Spiked Eggnog Coffee recipe. Combining the richness of eggnog with a hint of bourbon and a boost of caffeine, this drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 ounce bourbon (optional)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour into a mug.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the eggnog over low heat until steaming hot.
3. Add brown sugar and cinnamon to the warmed eggnog, whisking until dissolved.
4. Pour the eggnog mixture into the coffee, stirring gently to combine.
5. If desired, add 1/2 ounce of bourbon and stir well.
6. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
Warm up with this deliciously sweet and comforting drink, perfect for chilly fall evenings. The combination of caramel, apple, and spices will transport you to a cozy haven.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of bourbon or whiskey (about 1 1/2 oz)
– 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– Sliced apple for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the bourbon or whiskey over low heat.
2. Add the caramel syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
4. Pour in the apple cider and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour into a mug and garnish with sliced apple.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Martini
This decadent cocktail combines rich chocolate and peppermint flavors, perfect for sipping on a chilly evening or as a festive treat during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 ounce vodka
– Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, 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. Add the vodka and gently stir.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Cranberry Mimosas with Rosemary
Elevate your brunch game with this unique and flavorful twist on the classic mimosa. The addition of rosemary and cranberries gives this cocktail a fragrant and tangy taste that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup champagne or sparkling wine
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Orange slices or wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cranberry juice, simple syrup, and chopped rosemary to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into champagne flutes or glasses.
5. Top each glass off with champagne or sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with an orange slice or wedge.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Vanilla Chai Tea Latte
Combine the comforting flavors of chai tea with the sweetness of vanilla and steamed milk, and you’ll have a cozy drink perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Heat over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the brewed tea and vanilla extract to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the milk and sugar (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until steamed and hot.
5. Pour into cups and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bourbon Maple Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a rich and decadent treat: Bourbon Maple Hot Chocolate. This indulgent drink combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the sophistication of bourbon and the sweetness of maple syrup.
Toasted Coconut Eggnog
Toasted Coconut Eggnog Recipe
Elevate your holiday celebrations with this creamy and aromatic Toasted Coconut Eggnog recipe. This unique twist on a classic eggnog is infused with the rich flavor of toasted coconut flakes, making it a perfect addition to your festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, heavy cream, and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in the toasted coconut flakes and salt.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: approximately 10 minutes)
Spiced Pear Sangria
Spiced Pear Sangria: A Twist on a Classic Cocktail
This Spiced Pear Sangria combines the warmth of cinnamon and cloves with the sweetness of pears, perfect for a cozy gathering or holiday party. With only 10 ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (750ml)
– 1 pear, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brandy
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Sliced pears and citrus fruits for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine white wine, brandy, and orange liqueur.
2. Add the chopped pear, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to the pitcher.
3. Stir in the lemon-lime soda and honey until dissolved.
4. Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve cold, garnished with sliced pears and citrus fruits.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (minimum)
Peppermint Mocha Cocktail
This Peppermint Mocha Cocktail is a unique take on the classic mocha, with the added freshness of peppermint. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to indulge in a festive drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint syrup (or to taste)
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and Kahlúa.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Top with heavy cream and drizzle with peppermint syrup (to taste).
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive and irresistible drink recipes! From classic wintertime favorites like spiced apple cider and mulled wine, to creative twists like peppermint white hot chocolate and cranberry orange sparkler, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a warm and cozy treat or a bubbly celebration drink, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab some festive flavors and get mixing – the holiday season is here!
