Holiday Cocktails You Should Try This Winter

Winter is the perfect season to cozy up with a festive drink and celebrate the holidays in style. Whether you're hosting a gathering with friends, relaxing by the fire, or simply treating yourself, a well-crafted holiday cocktail can add a touch of seasonal magic to your days. From creamy classics to contemporary creations, the following drinks are sure to warm your spirits and impress your guests.

1. Classic Eggnog

No list of holiday cocktails would be complete without this rich and creamy staple. Eggnog is synonymous with winter festivities and has been enjoyed for centuries. Its combination of creamy texture, warming spices, and a splash of spirit make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (plus 1 tbsp)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup bourbon (or spiced rum)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

1. Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and creamy.
2. Slowly stir in the milk, cream, and bourbon (or rum).
3. Whip the egg whites with the remaining sugar until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the eggnog mixture.
4. Chill for at least an hour before serving.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg, and serve in festive mugs or glasses.

For an extra-festive touch, top it with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick!

2. Peppermint Martini

Looking for something elegant yet packed with holiday flavor? The peppermint martini is a cheerful nod to the season of candy canes and minty treats. Its crisp flavor and striking presentation make it the perfect cocktail for holiday soirées.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz white crème de menthe
• 1 oz heavy cream
• Crushed candy canes (for rimming the glass)

Instructions

1. Dip the rim of a martini glass in water, then coat it with crushed candy canes.
2. Combine the vodka, crème de menthe, and cream in a shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously, then strain into the prepared glass.

For added flair, garnish with a mini candy cane hanging off the side of the glass.

3. Spiced Hot Toddy

The hot toddy has been a winter favorite for centuries, thanks to its soothing warmth and ability to fend off chilly evenings. This version adds a holiday twist with seasonal spices like cinnamon and cloves.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 oz whisky (bourbon or scotch work well)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 1 cup hot water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• Lemon wheel (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Combine the whisky, honey, and lemon juice in a heat-safe mug.
2. Pour in the hot water and stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Add the cinnamon stick and cloves for a spicy infusion.
4. Garnish with a lemon wheel or star anise for a festive touch.

This drink is perfect for quiet nights curled up under a blanket or as a warm welcome for guests returning from the cold.

4. Mulled Wine

Nothing evokes the holidays quite like the aroma of mulled wine filling your home. This traditional European drink is a cozy blend of red wine, spices, and citrus.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of red wine (preferably something dry like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 2 oranges (one sliced, one juiced)
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4 cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise

Instructions

1. Combine the wine, orange juice, sugar, and spices in a large pot over low heat.
2. Add the orange slices and stir.
3. Heat gently (without boiling) for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Stir in the brandy just before serving.

Serve the mulled wine in heatproof glasses with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick as garnish. It’s a surefire way to bring warmth to any gathering.

5. White Christmas Margarita

If you're dreaming of a tropical escape this holiday season, the White Christmas margarita is for you. It’s a wintry twist on a classic summer cocktail, blending creamy coconut flavors with a frosty finish.

Ingredients

• 2 oz silver tequila
• 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1 tbsp sugar (for rimming the glass)
• Lime wedge and cranberries (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rim your glass with sugar by dipping it in lime juice first.
2. Combine the tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, and coconut cream in a shaker with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a few cranberries for a festive pop of color.

This cocktail is perfect for brightening up holiday celebrations with a unique and tropical twist.

6. Cranberry Sparkler

What’s more festive than the tangy, jewel-like flavor of cranberries? The cranberry sparkler delivers seasonal deliciousness topped with a touch of elegance. This cocktail is both easy to make and striking to serve, making it an excellent choice for winter celebrations.

Ingredients

• 2 oz cranberry juice
• 1 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau)
• 1 oz vodka
• Splash of sparkling water or champagne
• Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and vodka. Shake well.
2. Strain into a champagne flute or coupe glass.
3. Top with sparkling water or champagne for a refreshing fizz.
4. Garnish with skewered fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for that wintery look.

This drink’s vibrant red color is perfect for the holiday table, and the tart yet slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with seasonal treats like gingerbread.

Make Your Holiday Cocktails Shine

To elevate your holiday cocktails, presentation is key. Here are some tips for taking your drinks to the next level:

• Garnishes: Use sugared cranberries, citrus twists, cinnamon sticks, or edible flowers to add a festive flair to your drinks.
• Glassware: Choose appropriate glassware for each cocktail, whether it’s elegant martini glasses, cozy mugs, or rustic mason jars.
• Rims: Rimming glasses with crushed candy, sugar, or salt not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the drink’s flavor.

Whether you're a fan of traditional flavors or love experimenting with new combinations, the options are endless. Make these drinks a part of your celebrations, and don’t forget to share the recipes with friends and family to spread the cheer - or rather - Cheers!