15 Best Christmas Cocktail Recipes With Vodka

I’ve always loved finding new ways to make the holidays feel special. Festive drinks? They’re one of my favorite traditions, honestly.

With the right mix of flavors, vodka cocktails can bring a simple yet exciting touch to any Christmas gathering.

They’re easy, super versatile, and honestly perfect for both a quiet night in or a big, loud party.

This list pulls together my favorite seasonal vodka drinks. Some are fruity and refreshing, others are warm and spiced.

Each recipe is easy enough for home but festive enough to get a few compliments.

1) Classic Vodka Cranberry

I always reach for a Classic Vodka Cranberry during the holidays. It’s so simple, so refreshing, and there’s that perfect sweet-tart balance.

Plus, you barely need anything to make it.

I usually grab a glass, fill it with ice, then pour in 2 ounces of vodka and about 4 ounces of cranberry juice. Quick stir, nothing fancy.

Sometimes I’ll splash in a bit of lime juice for a zesty kick. It really brightens things up.

For garnish, a lime wedge or a couple fresh cranberries does the trick. Makes it look festive with almost zero effort.

I like serving it in a highball glass—classic look, you know? If I’m hosting, I’ll prep a few in advance so people can just grab and go.

It’s easy to tweak, too. Want it lighter? More cranberry juice. Need it stronger? Just a touch more vodka.

The best part? It takes less than two minutes to make. That means more time actually hanging out and less time playing bartender.

And that bright red color? Couldn’t be more perfect for Christmas. No weird ingredients, just good vibes.

If you’ve got vodka and cranberry juice on hand, you’re set. I make this one all the time when I want something festive but zero fuss.

2) Moscow Mule with a Christmas Twist

I’m a big fan of a Moscow Mule any time of year, but for the holidays, I like to mix things up. Instead of the usual lime juice, I use cranberry juice for a festive twist.

It gives the drink that gorgeous red color and a tart edge.

First, I fill a copper mug with ice. In goes 2 ounces of vodka, 2 ounces of cranberry juice, and the juice of half a lime.

The copper mug keeps everything super cold, which is half the fun, right?

I top it off with ginger beer—I like mine bold and spicy, but any kind works. It balances the cranberry’s sweetness nicely.

For a garnish, I’ll toss in a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. The rosemary adds a hint of pine, which just feels so… Christmas.

Sometimes I’ll rim the mug with sugar. It’s a little extra, but it looks great and adds a sweet touch.

You still get that crisp, fizzy Mule taste, just with a holiday vibe. Super easy, looks fancy, and always disappears fast at parties.

3) Peppermint White Russian

I can’t resist a Peppermint White Russian this time of year. It’s creamy, sweet, and that minty kick just screams Christmas.

I use vodka, coffee liqueur, and a splash of peppermint schnapps. Pour them over ice in a short glass, then top with heavy cream.

I usually stir it gently—just enough so the cream swirls but doesn’t totally mix in. It looks cool, honestly.

For a festive rim, I crush peppermint candies and dip the glass. It’s colorful and adds a bit of crunch.

If I’m feeling indulgent, I’ll add a splash of simple syrup before the cream. Turns it into more of a dessert drink.

Lowball glasses are my go-to for this one. They’re cozy and easy to hold, plus the size is just right for sipping.

Sometimes I swap in half-and-half for a lighter version. Still rich, but not quite as heavy.

I’ve also tried a drop of vanilla extract—it pairs surprisingly well with the peppermint and coffee flavors.

This is my favorite after-dinner drink. The coffee liqueur perks you up a bit, and the peppermint is so refreshing.

If I’m making a few, I’ll mix the booze in a pitcher and pour over ice, then add cream to each glass.

Crushed candy goes in a bowl for easy rimming when guests are waiting. Makes things go smoother.

That peppermint aroma is half the fun. Smells just like candy canes when you bring the glass up.

Sometimes I’ll top it with whipped cream if I want to go all out. It’s a treat, but hey, it’s the holidays.

The Peppermint White Russian is easy, festive, and the ingredients are all pretty basic. No wonder it’s in my regular rotation.

4) Cranberry Vodka Fizz

I’m always making a Cranberry Vodka Fizz for holiday parties. It’s quick, colorful, and super refreshing.

The bright red looks amazing on the table, and it’s not too sweet—just right.

I use vodka and cranberry juice as the base. Usually I go for unsweetened juice for more tartness, but sweetened is fine if you prefer it mellow.

Vodka blends right in, keeps things light.

Then I add club soda for the fizz. Pour it in slowly so you don’t lose those bubbles.

For garnish, I’ll throw in fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. The rosemary gives it that piney, wintery vibe.

Sometimes I squeeze in a bit of lime juice for brightness. It just wakes the whole thing up.

Tall glasses with ice are my pick here. The red color and bubbles look awesome in clear glass.

This drink is great for a crowd since you can mix the vodka and cranberry juice ahead, then top with club soda right before serving.

If someone wants it sweeter, I’ll let them add a splash of simple syrup to taste.

It’s light, not too boozy, so people can have a couple without feeling weighed down.

I love that it’s not creamy or heavy—just crisp and festive. Plus, only a few ingredients, so it’s doable even if I’m short on time.

5) Gingerbread Vodka Martini

A Gingerbread Vodka Martini is my go-to when I want something a little different for the holidays. Warm spices, cozy flavor, but still not too heavy.

I mix 2 ounces of vodka with 1 ounce of gingerbread syrup and 1 ounce of cream. Half-and-half works if I want it less sweet.

Shake everything with ice for about 15 seconds—cold hands mean it’s ready.

Strain into a chilled martini glass. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookies.

It looks festive and adds a nice crunch.

Sometimes I’ll add a little gingerbread cookie on the side. People always notice and comment on it.

If I’m out of gingerbread syrup, I’ll improvise with molasses and a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Not perfect, but it works.

Best to serve this one fresh—the cream can separate if it sits too long. I just make them one at a time.

The sweet spice and smooth vodka balance is so good. It’s a nice break from eggnog or super sweet drinks.

6) Holiday Bloody Mary

Sometimes I’m just not in the mood for sweet drinks, and that’s when a Holiday Bloody Mary hits the spot. It’s classic, but with a few tweaks, it feels right for Christmas brunch.

I start with vodka and add tomato juice—rich, smooth, and savory. Then in goes lemon juice, Worcestershire, and a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

For a holiday spin, I’ll toss in some celery salt and a bit of horseradish. It gives the drink a bold, warming kick.

The real fun is in the garnishes. I go all out: celery sticks, olives, pickles, rosemary, maybe even a skewer with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.

I serve it in a tall glass packed with ice. For the rim, I mix sea salt and cracked pepper—it makes every sip pop.

This one’s perfect for a laid-back holiday morning or a casual get-together. Easy to make for one, or in a big pitcher for a crowd.

Best part? You can make it as mild or spicy as you want. Totally up to you and your guests.

Simple recipe, but the presentation always feels special. And honestly, that’s what makes holiday drinks fun—good flavor, easy prep, and a little festive flair.

7) Spiced Apple Vodka Cider

I’m always up for making Spiced Apple Vodka Cider once the holidays roll around. It’s warm, a little nostalgic, and honestly couldn’t be much simpler.

The base is always fresh apple cider for me. I heat it slowly on the stove—just enough to let the flavors mingle and turn the kitchen cozy.

For that signature spice, I’ll toss in cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a dash of nutmeg. The cider simmers gently for about 10 minutes, and the aroma is half the experience.

After it’s done, I take it off the heat and stir in vodka. I never add the vodka while it’s hot—don’t want to lose the kick.

I like pouring it into a mug or heat-proof glass. Sometimes I’ll dress it up with a cinnamon stick or a thin apple slice if I’m feeling festive.

It’s a great pick for small gatherings or just a quiet night in. You can make a single mug or scale it up for a crowd, no sweat.

If I’m craving something lighter, I’ll splash in a bit of sparkling water at the end. That little fizz is nice, and it keeps things from feeling too heavy.

A spoonful of honey or maple syrup melts in beautifully if you want it sweeter. It’s subtle, but it does the trick.

Most of the time, I stick with plain vodka, but if I have vanilla vodka around, it gives the cider this smooth, almost creamy twist.

The whole thing takes maybe 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you want something festive but don’t have all night.

8) Pomegranate Vodka Spritz

A Pomegranate Vodka Spritz just feels right for the holidays. It’s light, bright, and honestly, that red color is a showstopper on any Christmas table.

I usually start with vodka and some fresh pomegranate juice. A splash of club soda gives it that bubbly lift—makes it feel a little more special.

My go-to ratio is 2 parts pomegranate juice to 1 part vodka, then I top it off with club soda. If it needs a touch of sweetness, I’ll stir in a little simple syrup.

For garnish, I’ll drop in a few pomegranate seeds and maybe a slice of lime. The seeds look great, and the lime brings a hint of citrus that plays well with the pomegranate.

This one’s best in a tall glass with ice. It keeps everything crisp and cold, which works with the tart, fruity flavor.

If I’m making a bunch, I’ll mix the vodka and juice in a pitcher first. Then I pour into glasses and add club soda right before serving, so the bubbles stay lively.

It’s simple, but the tart pomegranate and smooth vodka really stand out together. Plus, it’s easy to tweak to your taste.

9) Eggnog Vodka Cocktail

There’s something about an Eggnog Vodka Cocktail that just says holiday to me. It’s creamy, smooth, and you get that little warmth from the vodka—plus, you can whip it up in no time.

I’ll grab chilled eggnog (store-bought or homemade if I’m feeling ambitious). Then I pour in a shot of vodka for that clean finish. The flavors just work together without being too much.

I usually serve it in a short glass packed with ice. It keeps it cold and a little lighter, though sometimes I skip the ice if I want it extra rich.

A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon on top is a must. I lean toward nutmeg most days—it just fits with the eggnog.

If I want a sweeter, more dessert-like version, I’ll splash in some vanilla syrup. It smooths out the vodka and makes everything taste a bit more decadent.

You can batch this cocktail for a group—just mix up the eggnog and vodka in a pitcher, stash it in the fridge, and pour when friends arrive.

It’s easy to play with the strength, too. More eggnog for a lighter sip, or a little extra vodka if you’re feeling bold.

The creamy texture and gentle spice make it feel like a treat, even though it’s super easy.

10) Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Sour

This Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Sour is a favorite of mine—it’s not fussy, but it feels a little fancy. The cinnamon and vanilla combo makes it feel super cozy for the holidays, whether you’re having friends over or just winding down.

I shake up vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then add a splash of vanilla extract. A pinch of cinnamon gives it a subtle warmth that’s perfect with the tart lemon.

I shake it hard so it’s really cold and a bit frothy. Straining it into a chilled glass keeps it crisp and smooth.

For garnish, I’ll go with a cinnamon stick or just a sprinkle of cinnamon. Sometimes, if I’m in the mood, I’ll add a twist of lemon peel.

It’s easy to adjust—sweeter with more syrup, sharper with extra lemon juice. The flavors are balanced, but you can make it your own.

Good vodka really does make a difference here. And honestly, fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable if you want the best flavor.

The cinnamon and vanilla are festive, but not in-your-face. It’s a nice change from heavier holiday drinks, so you can have a couple without feeling weighed down.

Whenever I serve this, people notice that gentle spice in the aftertaste. It’s subtle, but it lingers in a good way.

I usually make small batches so it’s always fresh. Takes just a few minutes, which is perfect when the holiday to-do list is long.

It works as a pre-dinner drink or even a light dessert cocktail. Pairs well with cookies, fruit, or spiced nuts—super versatile.

11) Winter Citrus Vodka Punch

Winter Citrus Vodka Punch is my go-to for parties. It’s bright and refreshing, and making a big batch is a breeze.

I use fresh orange juice, some lemon juice, and a splash of cranberry juice for color and tartness. The citrus gives it that zingy lift.

All the juices go into a big pitcher, then I add vodka and a bit of simple syrup to balance things out. I give it a good stir so everything mingles.

Right before serving, I top it off with sparkling water. The fizz keeps it lively, and it doesn’t get too sweet.

I’ll throw in orange slices, lemon wheels, and fresh cranberries for color. It just looks so cheerful floating in the pitcher.

If I want it extra cold, I’ll serve over ice in clear glasses. The fruit floats to the top and makes every glass look festive.

You can easily scale this up for bigger crowds. Just taste as you go—add more syrup if it’s too tart, or more lemon if it’s too sweet.

Mixing it ahead is easy. I just combine the juices, vodka, and syrup, stash it in the fridge, and add the sparkling water when guests arrive.

It’s fresh and fits the winter vibe, with those citrus flavors brightening up the table.

12) Chocolate Peppermint Vodka

I’m a sucker for chocolate and peppermint together, especially in December. This Chocolate Peppermint Vodka brings both flavors together with vodka for a festive, easy cocktail.

I start by adding vodka, chocolate liqueur, and peppermint schnapps to a shaker with ice. Shake it hard until it’s cold and smooth—the minty chocolate aroma hits right away.

I usually pour it into a chilled martini glass. Sometimes I’ll rim the glass with crushed candy canes if I’m feeling extra; it’s a quick way to make it look festive.

You can play with the peppermint level—more schnapps for a stronger mint, or back off a little to let the chocolate shine.

I like to top it with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s almost dessert in a glass. A mini candy cane on the side is a cute touch, too.

This one’s easy to batch for a group. I’ll mix everything in a pitcher and keep it chilled so I can actually hang out instead of playing bartender.

The combo of sweet chocolate and cool peppermint just feels like Christmas. It’s easy, but looks and tastes like you put in extra effort.

I keep this recipe on my holiday list every year.

13) Caramel Apple Vodka

Honestly, making Caramel Apple Vodka is one of my favorite holiday moves. It’s sweet, a little crisp, and, let’s be real, ridiculously easy.

You get that cozy caramel flavor mixed with fresh apple. Kind of hard to beat.

I usually grab some vodka, a bit of apple cider, and a generous squeeze of caramel syrup. Into the shaker they go, with a bunch of ice.

I shake it up pretty well—blending and chilling at the same time. Fast and simple.

I pour it over ice in a short glass. Sometimes I get fancy and swirl caramel inside the glass first.

It looks nice, and who doesn’t like extra caramel?

For garnish, I’ll stick a thin apple slice or even a caramel candy on a pick. It’s a tiny thing, but it makes the drink feel a bit more festive.

The drink’s smooth, not too strong or overwhelming. Apple cider keeps it bright, and the caramel gives it that dessert-like vibe.

If I’m in the mood for something creamier, I’ll splash in a bit of half-and-half or cream. Suddenly it tastes like a caramel apple dessert, just in liquid form.

I tend to make this when friends drop by in December. It’s quick, no weird ingredients, and I don’t need any fancy gadgets.

If I want a bigger batch, I just mix vodka, cider, and caramel in a pitcher. Into the fridge it goes until people show up.

That way, I’m not stuck mixing drinks all night. More time to hang out, less time playing bartender.

Sometimes I use chilled cider for a colder, more refreshing drink. Warm cider works too, though it changes the whole mood.

With warm cider, the caramel pops even more, and the drink feels extra cozy. I just watch the heat so I don’t lose the booze.

The sweetness is easy to tweak. Less caramel syrup if I want it lighter, more if I’m feeling indulgent.

It’s a flexible recipe—easy to adjust for my taste or whoever’s over.

14) Vodka Snowball

I’m a big fan of the Vodka Snowball when the holidays roll around. It’s light, creamy, and honestly, it comes together in a snap.

It’s got that smooth taste that works for a cozy night in or just a small get-together.

I start with vodka as the base. Then I add advocaat—that’s what gives it the creamy texture and that pale yellow color.

A splash of lemonade on top adds a little fizz and keeps things from getting too sweet.

Vodka and advocaat go into a shaker with ice. I give it a quick shake to chill everything down.

Then I strain it into a glass and pour the lemonade over. That’s pretty much it.

If I’m feeling festive, I’ll add a dollop of whipped cream on top. Sometimes I sprinkle a little nutmeg or balance a tiny candy cane on the rim.

The flavor’s smooth with just a hint of citrus. Lemonade keeps it from feeling heavy, so it’s easy to sip.

I like serving it cold, always in a highball glass so there’s plenty of room for ice and bubbles.

Want it stronger? Just add a bit more vodka. If I’m in the mood for sweet, I’ll use extra advocaat.

It’s easy to tweak, depending on what I’m craving.

The Vodka Snowball is super quick—usually takes me less than five minutes. Perfect for when people show up and I want to hand them something right away.

Honestly, I think it works as a pre-dinner drink or even a light dessert cocktail. Not too strong, so it’s good for folks who aren’t into heavy drinks.

Whenever I serve it at Christmas, people always notice how pretty it looks. The pale color really pops next to all the holiday decorations.

For an extra chill, I sometimes keep the vodka in the freezer beforehand. That way, the drink stays cold without getting watery.

The ingredients are easy to find, which is a relief if I need to make it last-minute.

It’s simple, but it feels special. Creamy, fizzy, with a little citrus—it’s a nice change from the usual heavy winter cocktails.

15) Holiday Mule with Cranberry

I love making a Holiday Mule with Cranberry—it’s simple, colorful, and honestly just really refreshing. It’s a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, but with that pop of festive cranberry flavor.

I usually start by tossing some ice into a copper mug or whatever glass is handy. Then goes the vodka, a pour of cranberry juice, and a quick squeeze of fresh lime juice.

For the fizz, I fill it up with ginger beer until the mug’s nearly brimming. A gentle stir helps blend everything without killing the bubbles.

Garnishing? I like to throw in a handful of fresh cranberries and maybe a sprig of rosemary. It just looks so bright and seasonal, and honestly, it takes almost no effort.

The cranberry juice brings a light tartness that keeps the ginger beer’s sweetness in check. That bit of lime juice? It really keeps things crisp.

If I want the cranberry flavor to stand out more, I’ll reach for 100% cranberry juice instead of a blend. Sometimes I go heavier on the ginger beer if I want it a bit lighter.

I try to use chilled ingredients so the ice doesn’t melt too fast. It helps the drink stay cold and flavorful, which is kind of the point.

The copper mug isn’t a must, but I swear it keeps the drink colder. Plus, it just looks cool. A regular glass totally works too.

Whenever I serve these, people usually notice that bright red color right away. It’s festive, but not cloyingly sweet or too heavy.

It’s a good pick for a holiday cocktail that’s easy to throw together and even easier to drink. The flavors are familiar, but it still feels a bit special for the season.

Would you like me to also write the exact ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions for this drink? That might make it even easier to follow.