It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a glass of cheer in hand? In this special edition, we’re counting down our top 20 festive Christmas drink recipes that feature a splash of liquor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a merry little pick-me-up, these boozy concoctions are sure to bring some holiday cheer.
From classic eggnog spiked with bourbon to mulled wine infused with cinnamon and cloves, we’ve got something for everyone on this list. And if you’re feeling extra festive, be sure to try our peppermint white Russian or cranberry Moscow mule – the perfect pairings for a holiday party. But don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about the non-drinkers! Our spiked eggnog coffee and spiced apple cider with rum are delicious alternatives that won’t leave you feeling left out.
Stay tuned to see which festive drinks make our top 20 list!
Classic Eggnog with Bourbon
Classic Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe
A creamy, rich, and indulgent twist on the traditional holiday drink, this Classic Eggnog with Bourbon is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (optional, but highly recommended!)
– 1/4 cup rum extract (or to taste)
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.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until they’re well beaten.
3. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Stir in the ground nutmeg, salt, and bourbon whiskey (if using).
5. Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, stir in the rum extract.
Cooking Time:
– 15 minutes to prepare
– 2 hours to chill
Yield: About 4 cups of deliciously creamy eggnog!
Spiked Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Schnapps
This spiked hot chocolate is a perfect blend of rich, creamy milk and decadent dark chocolate, elevated by the invigorating zing of peppermint schnapps. Perfect for sipping on a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 shot peppermint schnapps (about 1 ounce)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Pour into mugs and add 1 shot of peppermint schnapps per mug.
5. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves
Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves Recipe
Warm up with a classic holiday treat – Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves! This spicy and sweet concoction is perfect for cold winter nights or festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or similar)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6-8 whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it mulled for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot, along with the brown sugar and water.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired temperature.
5. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or glasses before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Peppermint White Russian
Combine the classic White Russian with the invigorating flavor of peppermint and you’ll have a unique cocktail that’s perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add the vodka, peppermint schnapps, and coffee liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with heavy cream and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Enjoy your Peppermint White Russian!
Cranberry Moscow Mule
This seasonal take on the beloved Moscow Mule adds tart cranberries and warm spices to the classic recipe, creating a refreshing and flavorful drink perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges and fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, ginger beer, and cranberry juice.
3. Squeeze in lime juice and add cinnamon to taste.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and sprig of rosemary, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Boozy Gingerbread Latte
Warm up with this sweet and spicy latte perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup of milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons of gingerbread syrup
– 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso or make a strong cup of coffee.
2. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
3. Add the gingerbread syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the warmed milk. Whisk until well combined.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the brewed coffee.
5. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum for an adult twist.
Cooking Time: None! This latte is ready in just a few minutes.
Spiced Apple Cider with Rum
Elevate your fall gatherings with this rich and flavorful Spiced Apple Cider, infused with the warmth of rum. This recipe combines the comfort of apple cider with the spices of the season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– Sliced orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the spices infuse into the cider (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the cider into mugs or a serving pitcher. If desired, add dark rum and stir gently.
5. Serve warm, garnished with sliced orange.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Eggnog Martini with Vanilla Vodka
As winter approaches, warm up with this creamy Eggnog Martini infused with the sweet flavor of vanilla vodka. This festive cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Vanilla Vodka
– 1 oz Eggnog Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Heavy Cream
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Pinch of ground nutmeg, for garnish
– Ice
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a chilled martini glass with freshly grated nutmeg, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine Vanilla Vodka, Eggnog Liqueur, Heavy Cream, and Simple Syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg on top as garnish.
Cooking Time: None (ready in minutes)
Enjoy your Eggnog Martini with Vanilla Vodka!
Chocolate Peppermint Martini
Get ready to deck the halls with this festive holiday cocktail! This rich and refreshing Chocolate Peppermint Martini is a perfect treat for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon crème de menthe
– 1/4 teaspoon chocolate syrup
– Crushed candy canes 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 a dash of crème de menthe and chocolate syrup on top (optional).
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None! This martini is ready in just 5 minutes from start to finish.
Caramel Apple Sangria
Transform your autumn gatherings with this sweet and tangy sangria recipe featuring the flavors of caramel apples. Perfect for a cozy evening with friends or family, this refreshing drink is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Riesling)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/4 cup honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine wine, apple cider, and caramel sauce. Stir until the caramel is fully dissolved.
2. Add chopped apples, granola, and honey to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the sangria over ice in glasses and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned
Elevate your old fashioned game with the rich flavors of bourbon and maple syrup. This recipe combines the complexity of bourbon with the subtle sweetness of maple, creating a unique and delicious twist on the classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and simple syrup.
2. Add bitters and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Cranberry Champagne Punch
Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this Cranberry Champagne Punch is a refreshing and festive drink that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup champagne (or sparkling wine)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup triple sec liqueur
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– Ice cubes
– Fresh cranberries and rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large punch bowl, combine the cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and triple sec liqueur.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, stir in the champagne.
5. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon
This comforting drink is perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings. With the warmth of butter, the sweetness of rum, and the spice of cinnamon, this hot buttered rum recipe will be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) milk or heavy cream
– Optional: brown sugar, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for topping
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the dark rum and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Pour in the milk or heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed (optional: add brown sugar).
7. Ladle into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pomegranate Gin Fizz
This Pomegranate Gin Fizz is a modern take on the classic gin fizz, adding the sweet and tangy flavor of pomegranate to create a unique and refreshing cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– Splash of club soda
– Lime wheel and sprig of rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with pomegranate juice and stir gently.
6. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wheel and sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Peppermint Mocha Baileys Cocktail
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and decadent cocktail that combines the flavors of peppermint, mocha, and Baileys Irish Cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint schnapps
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm.
2. Add the instant coffee powder and whisk until dissolved.
3. Combine the vodka, white chocolate liqueur, Baileys Irish Cream, and peppermint schnapps in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
4. Shake well for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Top with the warm coffee-infused cream and garnish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Spiked Eggnog Coffee
Elevate your morning coffee routine with this decadent Spiked Eggnog Coffee, perfect for the holiday season. With the added warmth of rum and a hint of nutmeg, this creamy concoction is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 shot (1.5 oz) dark rum
– Pinch of ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee and pour into a large mug.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together eggnog, brown sugar, and a pinch of nutmeg until well combined.
3. Add the rum to the eggnog mixture and stir to combine.
4. Pour the eggnog mixture over the coffee, stirring gently to combine.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or rum level as needed.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and additional nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just a quick mix of ingredients and you’re ready to enjoy your Spiked Eggnog Coffee.
White Christmas Margarita
Add a touch of winter wonderland to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing White Christmas Margarita. A twist on the classic margarita, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberry and lime for a festive and delicious cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce white cranberry juice
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Salt for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh cranberries or rosemary sprig, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and optional fresh cranberries or rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Gingerbread White Russian
Gingerbread White Russian Recipe
=============================
Combine the warmth of gingerbread with the creamy richness of a white Russian cocktail for a unique and delicious twist on traditional holiday drinks.
Ingredients:
————
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup (see below)
– Ice
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish
Gingerbread Syrup:
—————–
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
Instructions:
————–
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add chopped ginger and cinnamon stick to the saucepan. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes.
3. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard solids.
To make the cocktail:
————————-
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, heavy cream, and gingerbread syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Cooking Time:
————–
– Steeping time: at least 30 minutes
– Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
Spiced Pear Prosecco Punch
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this warm and bubbly punch, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Prosecco
– 1 cup pear juice
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 1 cinnamon stick, crushed
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Slices of fresh pear, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine Prosecco, pear juice, apple cider, and honey syrup. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add crushed cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Spiced Pear Prosecco Punch over ice in glasses or mugs. Garnish with slices of fresh pear.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemblage only)
Eggnog Irish Coffee
Start your holiday season with a warm and cozy twist on the classic Irish coffee, featuring the rich flavors of eggnog. This unique drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into a warmed glass mug.
2. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Pour the eggnog mixture over the coffee, holding back any foam with a spoon.
6. Top the drink off with the whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Enjoy your Eggnog Irish Coffee while it’s still warm and cozy.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas drink recipes featuring alcohol! From classic eggnog to spiked hot chocolate, mulled wine, and boozy gingerbread latte, there’s something for everyone. Try a Peppermint White Russian or Cranberry Moscow Mule for a refreshing twist, or go bold with a Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned or Spiced Apple Cider with Rum. Whatever your taste, these festive drinks are sure to bring holiday cheer.
