I just love making my holiday gatherings feel a little more special with unique drinks. Using gin in Christmas cocktails?
That’s such a fun way to surprise friends and family.
These easy recipes help me whip up delicious, festive drinks for any celebration.
Mixing up a few of these cocktails really makes the season feel brighter.
1) Gin and Cranberry Noel
There’s something about the fresh and festive taste of the Gin and Cranberry Noel that I can’t get enough of. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, which is honestly a relief during the busy holiday season.
I just pour 2 ounces of gin into a glass full of ice. Then I add 2 ounces of cranberry juice—I usually go for pure cranberry juice for that tart kick, but sweetened works if you like it softer.
Next up, I squeeze in half a lime. That bright, tangy taste really wakes up the drink. I give it all a gentle stir so the flavors get to know each other.
A little fizz goes a long way, so I top the glass with club soda. Then comes the fun part: a few cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for garnish. The rosemary looks festive and gives off a nice holiday scent.
Honestly, this cocktail just looks gorgeous at Christmas parties. The deep red color screams winter celebration.
Gin and cranberry are such a good pair—the herbal gin and tart cranberry juice just make sense together. Lime and soda keep it light and not too heavy.
Sometimes I swap in a spiced or citrus gin, just to see what happens. Every version has its charm, but cranberry really ties it all together.
If I’m making these ahead, I’ll just mix the gin, cranberry juice, and lime in a pitcher. When it’s time to serve, I pour it over ice and finish with club soda.
People ask for the recipe all the time. The Gin and Cranberry Noel always gets a few compliments at my place.
2) Holiday Gin Fizz
When I want something festive but not complicated, I reach for a Holiday Gin Fizz. It’s a mix of classic gin, tart cranberry juice, and a splash of club soda.
I use just a handful of ingredients. Gin, cranberry juice, and a squeeze of lime all go in a shaker with some ice. I shake it up until it’s nice and cold.
Then I strain it into a glass of ice. Club soda on top gives it those light, refreshing bubbles.
For a holiday vibe, I toss in a few cranberries and a rosemary sprig. The smell of rosemary always makes me think of winter.
This drink is light, crisp, and not overly sweet. It works for small get-togethers or even a quiet night in. If I’m in the mood for something sweeter, I’ll sneak in a bit of simple syrup.
Botanical gin is my pick for this recipe. It plays so well with the cranberry and lime.
Every time I serve a Holiday Gin Fizz, the color pops and the bubbles make it feel a little fancy. It doesn’t take long to make, either.
I love that. More time for hanging out, less time mixing drinks.
3) Christmas Gin Punch
Christmas Gin Punch is my go-to for parties. It’s bright, festive, and honestly couldn’t be easier to throw together.
I use my favorite gin, cranberry juice, and a splash of orange liqueur. Then I add orange slices and a couple sprigs of rosemary. It’s simple, but it looks so good in a punch bowl.
A little sparkling water or soda gives it a nice fizz. I like how it keeps things light and not too sweet. Frozen cranberries double as ice cubes and a garnish.
Clear glasses show off that pretty color. I always get a few “oohs” and “aahs” when I serve it. If you want to switch things up, just play with the juice or gin.
4) Winter Gin Sour
There’s just something about a Winter Gin Sour when the weather turns cold. It’s classic, but with a little holiday twist.
Good gin is key here. The herbal notes really shine with the other ingredients. Fresh lemon juice gives the right amount of tartness.
I’ll add some simple syrup, but if I have honey syrup, I use that for a warmer vibe. Sometimes I’ll sneak in a bit of orange juice if I have it around.
Egg white is optional, but it makes the drink frothy and smooth. I always shake it hard to get that foam on top.
A lemon or orange twist works for garnish. If I’m feeling fancy, a rosemary sprig goes in for that wintery aroma.
This drink looks and smells special, but it’s not hard to make. The sharp, refreshing taste is great before dinner or when you need to unwind after a long day.
5) Gingerbread Gin Martini
The Gingerbread Gin Martini is like Christmas cookies in a glass—with a grown-up twist. It’s sweet, a little spicy, and really smooth.
I start with gin, gingerbread syrup, and a splash of cream. Shake with ice, strain into a martini glass, and you’re set. The gingerbread syrup gives that cozy, spiced flavor, but it’s not too much.
Sometimes I dust a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top. It smells incredible. Crushed gingerbread cookies on the rim? That’s just fun.
This one’s great for relaxing by the fire or serving at a party. The syrup can be made ahead, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen when guests arrive.
If I want it sweeter, I add a touch more syrup. Less cream makes it lighter. It’s easy to tweak to your own taste.
6) Spiced Pomegranate Gin
Mixing up a Spiced Pomegranate Gin feels just right around Christmas. It’s super colorful, and the spice gives it that holiday kick.
I use gin, pomegranate juice, and a bit of spiced syrup. Sometimes I’ll squeeze in some fresh lime. The pomegranate color is so festive.
The spiced syrup is easy—just simmer sugar, water, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. Once it’s cool, I keep it in the fridge for whenever the mood strikes.
Glass full of ice, gin, juice, syrup—stir it up. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and maybe a cinnamon stick. Looks pretty and the smell is amazing.
It’s good for small gatherings, but you can easily make a big batch in a pitcher. Everyone gets a glass, and nobody waits.
Less syrup for less sweetness, more cinnamon for more spice. It’s flexible, which I appreciate.
7) Cinnamon Gin Toddy
When it’s freezing outside, I’m all about a Cinnamon Gin Toddy. It’s cozy and has just enough spice to make things interesting.
I heat up water (not boiling), add a shot of gin, and a splash of honey. Lemon juice brings in some tang.
The best part is dropping in a cinnamon stick. Let it sit for a minute or two to soak up the flavor. Cinnamon and gin’s botanicals are a great combo, and the smell is so inviting.
Sometimes I’ll add a clove or a little fresh ginger if I’m in the mood. Stir gently, taste, and adjust honey or lemon as needed.
I like serving it in a mug or thick glass. The steam and aroma make it feel extra festive.
8) Mistletoe Gin Mule
Mistletoe Gin Mule is a Christmas staple for me. It’s simple, but the festive look always gets attention.
I pour 2 ounces of gin over ice, then add the juice of half a lime. Ginger beer brings fizz and a touch of sweetness.
For extra holiday flair, I toss in fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint. Sometimes pomegranate seeds, too. The colors just scream Christmas.
Stir gently to blend the flavors. I like to bruise the mint leaves a bit for more aroma. Add simple syrup if you want it sweeter.
Ready in minutes and perfect for parties. The colorful toppings make it look great in photos.
The gin and ginger beer are crisp and refreshing. Lime adds tang, and the garnishes make it pop. This is one cocktail my friends always ask for when the holidays roll around.
9) Clove and Orange Gin
I can’t help but love making a Clove and Orange Gin when the holidays roll around. There’s just something cozy about this drink, and honestly, it’s pretty simple to throw together.
The flavors always remind me of bustling kitchens and bowls of fresh fruit. I usually start by dropping a few cloves and a slice of orange into my glass.
Cloves bring this spicy little kick, and the orange gives a nice sweetness. Those two together? They just work with gin.
Then I pour in my go-to gin—not one that’s too heavy, since I want the orange and clove to shine. Sometimes I’ll squeeze in a bit of orange juice if I’m feeling it.
A splash of tonic or sparkling water goes in next. It keeps things balanced and adds a bit of fizz, which I like.
I give the whole thing a gentle stir before serving. Usually, I’ll throw in some ice to keep it nice and cold.
If I want it to look a bit more festive, I’ll twist some orange peel on top. That zesty aroma really ties everything together.
Sometimes I’ll even float a clove or two as garnish. It’s simple, but it makes the drink look special.
It’s a great pick for a cold night or when friends come over for a holiday get-together. People always seem to love it.
This recipe’s easy to tweak if I want it stronger or a bit lighter. Less tonic for more punch, or more tonic to keep it mellow.
Experimenting with the mix is half the fun, honestly.
10) Frosty Gin Gimlet
When I’m craving something light and crisp for the holidays, I go with a Frosty Gin Gimlet. It’s just gin, lime juice, and simple syrup—classic and so refreshing.
I shake gin with fresh lime juice over ice, then add a touch of simple syrup. That cold shake gives it a frosty look that feels perfect for winter.
Using good gin really matters here. I always go for one with a clean, smooth taste.
Once it’s ready, I pour it into a chilled glass. Sometimes I’ll add a lime twist or a little mint if I’m feeling fancy.
It only takes a couple minutes to make, but it feels like a treat. The Frosty Gin Gimlet is my go-to when friends drop by.
It’s simple, but it never fails to impress anyone who likes gin. I think it’s just right for those laid-back holiday nights.
11) Cranberry Rosemary Gin
Whenever I want something festive that’s not too sugary, I make a Cranberry Rosemary Gin. The bright red color looks so good in a glass.
It’s super easy. I pour gin, cranberry juice, and a splash of club soda over ice. Always add a squeeze of lime for a bit of tang.
The rosemary sprig is the best part, honestly. It brings this woodsy aroma and makes the drink look fancy.
I usually roll the rosemary between my fingers before dropping it in. That helps release more of those oils.
I always reach for unsweetened cranberry juice so things don’t get too sweet. If I’m in the mood, I’ll add a little simple syrup or even a sugar cube.
A handful of fresh cranberries on top looks great and they float. This one’s easy to make in a big batch for parties.
Sometimes I’ll rim the glass with sugar for some sparkle. Tart cranberry, fragrant rosemary, and crisp gin together just taste so fresh.
If I’m out of club soda, sparkling water works fine. That bit of fizz makes it feel a little more special.
I like serving this with snacks—cheese, crackers, maybe some spiced nuts.
It’s a simple way to bring some holiday spirit to the table, and it doesn’t take much effort.
12) Yuletide Gin Collins
I always find myself making a Yuletide Gin Collins when December hits. It’s crisp and refreshing, with just enough festive flair.
Sweet cranberry syrup and tart lemon juice pair up with gin perfectly. I pour 2 ounces gin, 1 ounce cranberry syrup, and 1 ounce fresh lemon juice into a shaker.
Then I add ice and shake it up. Strain it into a tall glass packed with ice.
Top it off with club soda—just until the glass is almost full. I give it a gentle stir to blend everything together.
Fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig on top make it look just right for the season. This cocktail is fizzy and not too sweet.
The cranberry flavor always reminds me of winter. Rosemary adds that lovely festive aroma.
I like making this one for parties since it’s simple but looks impressive. The colors—red, green, and bubbly—really pop.
You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry syrup, whatever’s easier. Just don’t skip the fresh lemon juice.
If you want it sweeter, add a touch more syrup. Scaling up for a crowd is easy—just multiply the ingredients.
I’d say make a pitcher for gatherings, but add the club soda at the last minute so it stays fizzy.
Choosing a gin you actually like makes a difference here. The smoothness really blends well with everything else.
If you’re feeling extra, a twist of lemon peel or sugared cranberries are nice as garnish. But honestly, keeping it simple looks best.
13) Festive Gin Negroni
Making a Festive Gin Negroni is kind of a holiday tradition for me. It’s a classic, but with a little seasonal twist.
The colors are so bright and the flavor is rich. I stick with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
I pour everything over ice in a mixing glass, then give it a good stir until it’s nice and cold. Strain it into a short glass with fresh ice.
To make it pop for the holidays, I’ll add a strip of orange peel. Sometimes I’ll throw in a few cranberries or a sprig of rosemary, too.
This cocktail is bold and a bit bitter, but the sweet vermouth smooths it out. Orange peel on top gives it a fresh aroma.
I love how the flavors come together for a cozy winter drink. Making a Negroni is quick but feels a bit fancy.
If someone doesn’t love bitter drinks, I’ll use a little less Campari. Or swap in a floral gin for a different vibe.
It’s easy to adjust to people’s tastes. The red color always stands out on the holiday table.
I always think it looks great next to cookies and other treats. The Negroni is a timeless favorite if you’re into gin.
Adding a few festive touches makes it feel just right for this time of year.
14) Sugarplum Gin Sparkler
I can’t get over how colorful and festive the Sugarplum Gin Sparkler looks. That bright purple hue always stands out at a party.
To make it, I start with my favorite gin and a splash of plum syrup. Then I top it with sparkling water for a little bubbly fun.
If I have fresh plums, I’ll muddle a few slices at the bottom of the glass. It adds a lot of flavor, but store-bought plum syrup works just as well.
A squeeze of lemon gives it some tartness. I stir everything up and add a bunch of ice.
For garnish, I’ll go with a slice of plum or frozen berries. Sometimes a rosemary sprig if I want it extra festive.
This drink is light, sparkly, and definitely not too sweet. Perfect for sipping while exchanging gifts or watching a holiday movie.
If I want a non-alcoholic version, I just skip the gin and use more sparkling water and plum syrup. Still looks gorgeous and tastes really refreshing.
The Sugarplum Gin Sparkler always gets compliments when I serve it. It’s so easy, but looks like a fancy holiday treat.
15) Mulled Gin Cider
There’s just something about a mug of Mulled Gin Cider that feels extra cozy around the holidays. The warm spices fill the kitchen with this amazing aroma, and honestly, the apple cider just seems to get along so well with gin.
When I make it, I start by warming up apple cider on the stove. I toss in a couple cinnamon sticks, a handful of cloves, and a star anise or two.
Sometimes I’ll grate in some orange zest—just to give it a little zing. I let it all simmer for at least ten minutes, maybe longer if I get distracted, so the spices really come through.
Once the cider’s ready, I pour in my favorite gin. Not too much, just enough for a little kick.
It’s wild how the heat from the cider brings out all those gin botanicals. Honestly, that’s what makes this drink stand out from the usual mulled wine, at least for me.
I like to serve it in a big mug, nice and hot. A slice of apple or a cinnamon stick on top makes it feel a bit special.
If friends are over, I’ll double the batch. It turns any night into a little celebration, even if it’s just a random Tuesday.
Want it sweeter? Stir in some honey or brown sugar. I usually do, since it takes the edge off the tart cider and the gin’s bite.
This recipe is easy to tweak, so everyone ends up happy with their mug. It’s forgiving, which is honestly a relief.
Mulled Gin Cider is just simple and comforting—totally the kind of drink I want to sip while watching a cheesy holiday movie or curled up with a book. If you’re hosting a winter get-together, this is a fun twist on the usual spiced drinks.
