Cheers to the Season | Favorite Holiday Cocktails to Sip & Savor
Hi friends, Megan K. here with your guide to all your festive favorite holiday cocktails, cheers!
The holidays bring a special kind of magic, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with festive cocktails that capture the season's spirit. This is a time for gathering, sharing, and celebrating—and what better way to toast the season than with a lineup of festive cocktails? Whether you're hosting a cozy get-together or simply relaxing by the fire, these seasonal staples will warm your spirits and impress your guests.
Holiday Punch
A holiday party isn’t complete without a bowl of festive punch. A party favorite, holiday punch is versatile, easy to prepare, and brimming with festive cheer. Start with a base of cranberry or pomegranate juice for a vibrant hue, add sparkling water or ginger ale for fizz and bubbly fun, and spike it with rum, vodka, or prosecco for a spirited twist. Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and sprigs of rosemary for a festive flourish. Bonus: it doubles as a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Eggnog
No holiday cocktail list is complete without eggnog. Rich, creamy, and quintessentially holiday, eggnog is a tradition that dates back centuries. This indulgent drink combines milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and a splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the spirits but don't skimp on the freshly grated nutmeg. Serve it chilled or warm, topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a luscious finish with a dash of extra decadence.
Glühwein
This winter classic hailing from Europe’s Christmas markets, glühwein, also known as mulled wine, is the ultimate winter warmer. This spiced red wine is simmered with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a touch of honey or sugar. Serve it in heatproof glasses or a festive mug, and don’t forget the aromatic steam that adds to its allure. For an extra kick, spike it with a splash of brandy or amaretto. The scent alone will make your home feel festive.
Champagne Cocktails
Nothing says "celebration" like a flute of champagne, bubbly is a must for any holiday celebration. Elevate this classic with a splash of orange liqueur and a sugar cube for a simple champagne cocktail, or experiment with seasonal flavors like cranberry, blood orange, or pomegranate juice. For a chic touch, garnish with a twist of citrus peel, a rosemary sprig or a few floating pomegranate seeds to truly polish your cocktails appeal.
Blood Orange Shrub
For a refreshing and sophisticated cocktail, try a blood orange shrub. A shrub is a tangy drink made by combining fruit, sugar, and vinegar to create a bright, zesty syrup. Mix the blood orange shrub with vodka or gin, top with soda water, and garnish with a slice of blood orange, fresh thyme or rosemary. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the spirits and simply add to sparkling water. The beauty of a shrub is the balance of sweet, tart, and herbal notes making both the alcoholic and non-alcoholic seasonal drink a standout at any soirée.
Hot Toddy
Perfect for chilly nights, the hot toddy is a cozy classic that’s easy to customize. Start with hot water, add honey, lemon juice, and your spirit of choice—whiskey, brandy, or rum all work beautifully. Spice it up with a cinnamon stick or star anise, and you’ve got a drink that soothes and satisfies. Perfect for sipping by the fire or battling the winter chill, the hot toddy is a go-to holiday favorite. Bonus: it’s also a go-to remedy for winter colds.
Peppermintini
Peppermint lovers, this one’s for you! The peppermintini is a fun, festive cocktail that brings boozy candy cane magic to your glass. Mix vodka, peppermint schnapps with crème de cacao and a splash of cream for a dessert-like indulgence, you can also use Bailey’s instead of cream for an extra creamy holiday kick. Serve in a martini glass with a crushed candy cane rim for the essential holiday flair. The result is a sweet, minty cocktail that’s perfect for holiday toasts—or as a decadent dessert drink.
Raise your Glass to the Season & Mix, Sip, Repeat
Whether you’re a fan of warm, spiced drinks or crisp, sparkling cocktails, there’s a holiday drink for every occasion. Holiday cocktails are more than just beverages—they’re a way to share joy, create memories, and embrace the season’s spirit. Also, these favorites are sure to keep your celebrations merry and bright.
So, shake, stir, or simmer your favorite recipe, gather your loved ones, grab your favorite glass, raise it high, and toast to good company, great cocktails, and the most wonderful time of the year. Cheers!
