27+ Best Holiday Cocktail Recipes to Delight Your Guests This Season
As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with joy, laughter, and the sweet smells of festive treats. What better way to celebrate than with delightful cocktails that warm the heart and uplift the spirit? Get ready to impress your guests with these flavorful and easy-to-make drinks that will surely become favorites at your gatherings.
Imagine the refreshing zing of mint combined with the tartness of cranberries, all spiced up for the holidays! This cocktail is a fun twist on the classic mojito, bringing festive cheer with every sip.
Fresh mint leaves
Cranberry juice
Lime juice
Sugar or simple syrup
White rum
Club soda
Cranberries and lime slices for garnish
The Spiced Cranberry Mojito stands out because it harmonizes the fresh taste of mint with the rich, seasonal flavor of cranberry. It’s not just a drink; it’s a celebration in a glass! Serve it in a tall glass with ice and watch your guests’ eyes light up as they take their first sip.
This creamy cocktail brings the cozy flavor of gingerbread right into your glass! It’s perfect for those chilly nights, offering a rich and sweet experience that feels like a warm hug.
Vodka
Coffee liqueur
Heavy cream
Gingerbread syrup (or homemade gingerbread spice)
Ice
Ground nutmeg for garnish
The Gingerbread White Russian combines the boldness of coffee liqueur with the delightful sweetness of gingerbread, creating a unique holiday treat. It’s creamy, sweet, and just a little spicy—everything you want in a festive drink. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for last-minute gatherings!
This vibrant cocktail is as beautiful as a holiday flower! The blend of pineapple and bubbly champagne makes it a refreshing option that’s perfect for toasting.
Pineapple juice
Champagne or sparkling wine
Grand Marnier or orange liqueur
Fresh pineapple slices for garnish
Pomegranate seeds (optional)
The Pineapple Poinsettia Cocktail is not just a drink; it’s a festive centerpiece! The sweetness of pineapple juice paired with the fizz of champagne creates a joyful sensation, and the splash of Grand Marnier adds a delightful citrus twist. Your guests won’t be able to resist raising their glasses for this one!
If you love the rich flavor of bourbon, this cocktail is calling your name! The addition of maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the tartness of the lemon.
Bourbon
Fresh lemon juice
Maple syrup
Angostura bitters
Ice
Lemon wheel for garnish
The Maple Bourbon Sour is like a warm winter evening in a glass, with its deep flavors and cozy vibe. It’s easy to make and offers a delightful twist that makes it stand out among the typical holiday cocktails. Your guests will savor every sip, feeling the warmth of the season with each taste!
The Hot Chocolate Martini is the ultimate cozy drink, combining the rich taste of chocolate with the smoothness of vodka. It’s perfect for holiday parties and can easily be made in large batches to serve a crowd. Your guests will be amazed at this indulgent treat that feels like dessert in a glass!
This seasonal twist on traditional sangria is bursting with fruity flavors and warming spices! It’s perfect for serving a crowd and looks gorgeous in a big pitcher.
Red wine
Apple cider
Fresh fruits (like oranges, apples, and berries)
Cinnamon sticks
Brandy (optional)
Club soda or ginger ale
Winter Sangria is a festive and colorful drink that brings a taste of the season in every glass. The combination of red wine and apple cider creates a rich base, while the fresh fruits and spices add a delightful twist. It’s a fun and social drink that encourages everyone to gather around and enjoy!
This cocktail is a warm and spicy take on the classic Moscow mule, perfect for the holiday season! The combination of apple cider and ginger beer gives it a refreshing kick with a cozy feel.
Apple cider
Ginger beer
Vodka
Cinnamon sticks
Apple slices for garnish
The Cinnamon Apple Cider Mule is simply irresistible with its sweet and spicy flavors! It’s warming and refreshing at the same time, making it the ideal cocktail for chilly evenings. Your guests will love the festive twist, and it’s super easy to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the party!
Get ready for a delightful chocolatey explosion with a hint of mint in this festive cocktail! It’s like a candy cane and chocolate treat all in one.
Vodka
Crème de menthe
Chocolate liqueur
Heavy cream
Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
The Chocolate Peppermint Martini is a fun and playful drink that captures the essence of the holidays. Its creamy texture and refreshing minty flavor will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it in a frosted glass, and watch your guests’ faces light up with joy!
This classic holiday drink is all about warm, spicy flavors that fill your home with delightful aromas. Perfect for gatherings, it creates an inviting atmosphere everyone loves.
Red wine
Orange slices
Whole spices (like cloves, cinnamon, and star anise)
Honey or sugar
Brandy (optional)
Mulled Wine is a traditional favorite for a reason—it’s comforting, aromatic, and simply delicious. The combination of spices and citrus creates a magical flavor profile that warms you from the inside out. Set a pot on the stove, and let the spices simmer while your guests arrive; the scent will have them flocking to the kitchen!
