As the winter months approach, our minds turn to cozy nights by the fire, warm gatherings with loved ones, and of course, delicious drinks to get us in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself to a special treat, we’ve got you covered with these 20 festive holiday drink recipes that are sure to delight.
From classic favorites like hot buttered rum and mulled wine, to modern twists on old traditions like peppermint mochas and spiced apple cider, our collection has something for everyone. So grab your favorite mug, gather ’round the tree, and let’s get started on a holiday season filled with cheer and delicious drinks!
[Insert images of festive holiday drinks here]
Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Warm up on a chilly day with this invigorating peppermint hot chocolate, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. The perfect treat to brighten up any winter morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, peppermint extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks
Elevate your fall gatherings with this classic recipe that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices and the coziness of cinnamon sticks. This simple and inviting drink is perfect for crisp autumn evenings.
Ingredients:
– 2 liters apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon stick pieces.
2. Add the whole cloves, nutmeg, and allspice to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the cider into mugs or a serving pitcher to remove the spices.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg
Warm Up with a Rich Eggnog: Bourbon and Nutmeg Edition
Eggnog is a classic holiday treat that gets an extra boost of flavor with the addition of bourbon and nutmeg. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a special drink for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
– Whipped cream and additional nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, heavy cream, bourbon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Add the sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the eggnog chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply chill and serve.
Cranberry Orange Sparkler
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing Cranberry Orange Sparkler. This sparkling cocktail is perfect for sipping on a chilly winter evening or serving at your next holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup triple sec or Cointreau
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry and orange juices.
2. Add the triple sec or Cointreau and stir to combine.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with slices of orange.
Cooking Time: None!
Gingerbread Latte with Molasses
Warm up with a rich and spicy Gingerbread Latte made with molasses!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon molasses
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, butter, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in molasses until dissolved.
3. Strain the latte into mugs to remove any solids.
4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Elevate your cocktail game with this fall-inspired take on the classic White Russian, featuring warm pumpkin spice flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce pumpkin-flavored syrup (or to taste)
– 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, pumpkin syrup, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg on top (optional).
6. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 5 minutes.
Mulled Wine with Cloves and Star Anise
As winter approaches, there’s no better way to warm up than with a rich and spicy mulled wine. This recipe combines the classic flavors of red wine, cloves, and star anise for a perfect winter warmer.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2-3 whole cloves
– 2-3 whole star anise pods
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cloves, and star anise.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired temperature (warm to hot).
4. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot, along with a cinnamon stick if using.
5. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the citrus and spices to infuse into the wine.
6. Strain the mulled wine into individual cups or a serving jug before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla Ice Cream
Escape the chill of winter with this comforting treat that combines the rich flavors of hot buttered rum and creamy vanilla ice cream. This indulgent dessert is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches 120°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in rum, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour into mugs or glasses.
4. Serve immediately with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your cozy and creamy Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla Ice Cream!
Peppermint Mocha Martini
Get ready to warm up with a refreshing twist on the classic martini. This Peppermint Mocha Martini combines the flavors of rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and velvety coffee liqueur for a treat that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/4 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, white chocolate liqueur, Kahlúa, and peppermint schnapps.
3. Shake well 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 or chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: None
Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
Beat the chill with this sweet and spicy drink that combines the flavors of caramel apples and hot toddies. This comforting cocktail is perfect for a crisp autumn evening or a cozy winter night.
Ingredients:
– 1 apple, sliced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup caramel syrup (such as dulce de leche)
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine apple slices and apple cider.
2. Add bourbon whiskey and stir to combine.
3. Drizzle caramel syrup into the mug and stir gently.
4. Add a cinnamon stick to the mug for garnish.
5. If desired, add a drizzle of honey to balance the flavors.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Martini
Get ready to chill out with this refreshing twist on the classic martini. Rich chocolate and invigorating peppermint come together for a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 oz crème de menthe
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, peppermint schnapps, and crème de menthe.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake and serve.
Cranberry Mimosas with Rosemary
Elevate your mimosa game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the herbaceousness of rosemary. Perfect for a brunch or special occasion, these Cranberry Mimosas with Rosemary are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup champagne
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
– Sliced orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice and sugar (if using). Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the sprigs of rosemary to the pitcher and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, pour in the champagne and stir gently.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cranberry Mimosas with Rosemary.
5. Garnish with a slice of orange and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time)
Spiced Chai Tea Latte
This aromatic drink combines the comforting flavors of black tea, spices, and creamy milk to create a perfect pick-me-up on a chilly day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this popular café treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1 shot of espresso (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tea leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
2. Pour in milk and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into a large mug and add sugar to taste.
5. If desired, add a shot of espresso for an extra boost.
6. Enjoy your Spiced Chai Tea Latte!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Martini with Cinnamon Sugar Rim
Warm up with a sweet and creamy twist on the classic martini. This Eggnog Martini is infused with the flavors of the season, topped off with a crunchy cinnamon sugar rim.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz eggnog
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of nutmeg
– Cinnamon sugar (equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon)
Instructions:
1. Rim a martini glass with cinnamon sugar by dipping the rim into a small plate of cinnamon sugar, then tapping off any excess.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, eggnog, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Shake until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top for garnish.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pomegranate Champagne Punch
Pomegranate Champagne Punch Recipe
Celebrate any occasion with a refreshing twist on traditional punch! This Pomegranate Champagne Punch combines the sweetness of pomegranate juice and the effervescence of champagne, perfect for holiday parties or special gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pomegranate juice
– 1 cup champagne (or prosecco)
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– Slices of orange, lime, and grapefruit for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, champagne, lemon-lime soda, and simple syrup.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add fresh lime juice and stir again.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with slices of citrus fruits and a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes, but it’s best served chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Pomegranate Champagne Punch!
White Chocolate Peppermint Cocktail
This festive cocktail combines the creaminess of white chocolate and the invigorating zing of peppermint, perfect for warming up on a chilly winter night.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz white crème de menthe
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz white chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva)
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, white crème de menthe, and heavy cream. Shake until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Pour in the white chocolate liqueur.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Warm up with a delicious and cozy Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup marshmallow creme
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– Whipped cream and extra marshmallows for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add grated ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg; cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in milk or dark chocolate chips; whisk until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
5. Stir in marshmallow creme until well combined.
6. Remove from heat; add mini marshmallows.
7. Stir gently to melt and combine.
8. Pour into mugs; top with whipped cream and extra marshmallows (if desired).
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy
As the winter chill sets in, this Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy recipe will warm your spirits and soothe your senses. With a hint of maple sweetness and a kick of bourbon, this comforting drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of bourbon whiskey (2 oz)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken
– 2 cups hot water
– Honey, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and lemon slice.
2. Add the broken cinnamon stick to the mug.
3. Pour in the hot water, making sure that all ingredients are well-covered.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. If desired, add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (serve warm)
Cranberry Ginger Fizz
This Cranberry Ginger Fizz is a delightful and revitalizing drink that combines the tartness of cranberries with the spicy warmth of ginger. Perfect for a relaxing evening or as a pick-me-up on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Thin slices of fresh ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice and simple syrup. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add freshly squeezed lime juice and stir to combine.
3. Pour in the ginger ale and stir gently to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Cranberry Ginger Fizz over ice in tall glasses, garnished with thin slices of fresh ginger.
Cooking Time: None
Toasted Coconut Eggnog
Toasted coconut flakes add a delightful texture and flavor to this rich and creamy eggnog recipe, perfect for the holiday season. This unique twist on traditional eggnog is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (see notes)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine 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 eggs, vanilla extract, and toasted coconut flakes.
3. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Strain the mixture into a clean container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time: 2 hours or overnight)
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive drink recipes, each one deliciously spiced to warm your senses and fill your home with cheer. From classic wintertime favorites like peppermint hot chocolate and mulled wine, to creative twists like pumpkin spice white Russians and cranberry orange sparklers, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy night in, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your winter celebrations.
Leave a Reply