I really love how mint brings this fresh, cool vibe that just works with holiday drinks.
You can take a basic cocktail and, with a little mint and some seasonal flavors, suddenly it’s got that festive energy.
It’s honestly such an easy way to make gatherings feel just a little more special—no need for anything complicated.
So, here’s a bunch of cocktails that play with mint in clever ways. Some are light and zingy, others are richer and cozier, so there’s something for whatever holiday mood you’re in.
They all keep the focus on flavor, but there’s that extra holiday cheer tucked in there.
1) Classic Mint Julep
The Classic Mint Julep is just one of those drinks that’s simple but always hits the spot. It’s got just a handful of ingredients, so I never feel like I’m in over my head when I make it at home.
First, I muddle up some fresh mint leaves with a bit of sugar. That’s what really brings out the minty oils and makes the flavor pop.
I try not to press too hard or the leaves get bitter, and nobody wants that. Then it’s time for bourbon and a heap of crushed ice.
The ice chills everything down fast and makes it super smooth. I usually fill the glass to the brim—it keeps the julep colder longer, and I just like the look.
Garnish is easy: just a sprig of mint on top. That way you get a little burst of aroma every time you sip.
Sometimes I’ll dust a pinch of powdered sugar over the mint if I’m feeling extra. I like serving juleps in a short glass or a metal cup—the metal gets frosty, which feels perfect for the holidays.
The sweetness is easy to tweak. If I want it lighter, I’ll just use less sugar; if I’m in the mood for something richer, I add a bit more.
It’s a solid pick for Christmas get-togethers because it’s quick and doesn’t need any fancy gear. I can whip up a few in no time and still hang out with everyone.
The mint flavor is great with holiday desserts too. I’ll sip it with cookies or chocolate, and the freshness keeps things from getting too sweet.
If I want to go all-in on the holiday spirit, I’ll use crushed candy canes as a garnish. It gives a little peppermint vibe but doesn’t mess with the original recipe.
The Classic Mint Julep is kind of timeless, but it still fits right in with holiday menus. It’s one of those drinks I know I can count on—refreshing, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
2) Peppermint Mojito
The Peppermint Mojito is just a fun twist on the usual. The mint and sweet peppermint together somehow make it taste festive, but it still feels light.
I start by muddling fresh mint leaves with a bit of sugar and lime juice. That gets the mint oils out and adds a little citrus brightness.
Then I pour in white rum and a splash of peppermint syrup. The peppermint isn’t overpowering, but it gives the whole thing a holiday feel.
A handful of ice and a top-off of club soda makes it nice and bubbly. The fizz keeps it refreshing and easy to drink.
For garnish, I’ll throw in a candy cane or a mint sprig. It looks cute and, as the candy melts, it adds a bit more flavor.
It’s a good pick for parties—easy to make by the glass or in a pitcher if I’ve got a crowd.
The Peppermint Mojito stays crisp, not heavy at all. It goes well with snacks or sweets, which is always handy this time of year.
People usually comment on the bright green and red when I serve it. It just looks like Christmas in a glass.
I like that I can adjust the sweetness pretty easily, just by messing with the syrup. Makes it a safe bet if I’m not sure what everyone likes.
3) Mint Chocolate Martini
A Mint Chocolate Martini is basically dessert in a glass, but for grown-ups. It’s festive, it’s simple, and the cool mint with chocolate is just perfect for winter.
I usually grab vodka, crème de menthe, and crème de cacao—just those three. Shake them with ice until it’s cold and smooth.
Pouring into a chilled martini glass makes it feel a little fancy. Sometimes I’ll rim the glass with crushed candy canes or cocoa powder, just to make it look extra holiday-ish.
For garnish, a mint leaf or a little chunk of chocolate on the rim does the trick. If I’ve got whipped cream around, I’ll add a little on top for extra sweetness.
It’s a great pick for a party or just hanging out at home. Takes almost no time to make, and I never need a ton of ingredients.
4) Cucumber Mint Gimlet
The Cucumber Mint Gimlet is so fresh—crisp and light, with just a touch of sweetness. Cucumber and mint together make it feel really clean, which I like around the holidays when everything else is so rich.
To make it, I muddle up some fresh cucumber slices with mint leaves. That’s what really brings out the flavor.
Then it’s gin, lime juice, and a bit of simple syrup to round it out. I shake it with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a cucumber slice or mint sprig.
This one is super easy to throw together. Not a lot of ingredients, not a lot of fuss, which is pretty much what I want when I’m already busy.
The cucumber keeps it light, and the mint adds a little chill that fits the season. It’s a nice change from the usual heavy holiday drinks.
I like serving this when I’m after something classic but still a little different. The gimlet’s an old-school drink, but the cucumber and mint make it feel new.
If I’m making it for a group, I’ll just multiply everything and mix it in a pitcher. Easy to pour over ice when people want a refill.
The Cucumber Mint Gimlet is one of those cocktails I reach for when I want something that’s not fussy but still feels festive.
5) Minty Moscow Mule
The Minty Moscow Mule is about as easy as it gets. It’s the classic mule, but with a little mint to make it feel extra fresh and a bit more holiday-ish.
I just mix vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, then toss in a few mint leaves. The mint brightens things up but doesn’t drown out the ginger.
I always use a copper mug if I have one—it keeps everything colder, and honestly, it just looks cool.
Garnish is simple: a lime wedge and a sprig of mint. Not fussy, but it makes the drink look finished.
This one’s great for both small groups and bigger parties. I can make one or a whole batch, no problem.
The combo of spicy ginger, tart lime, and cool mint is just right—refreshing, but still cozy enough for December.
6) Frozen Mint Margarita
A Frozen Mint Margarita is both refreshing and festive, which isn’t always easy to pull off. Lime, mint, and tequila blend together for a drink that’s bright and fun, but still feels like it belongs at a holiday party.
I blend tequila, lime juice, triple sec, fresh mint, and ice until it’s smooth. The mint keeps it crisp, balancing out the lime.
I’ll usually garnish with a mint sprig—it’s simple, but it makes the drink look sharp. Sometimes I’ll rim the glass with sugar or salt—sugar if I want it sweeter, salt if I’m feeling classic.
It’s best served right after blending, since the icy texture melts fast. If I remember, I’ll chill the glasses first to help it last a little longer.
It’s a good one for small gatherings, and it scales up if I need a bigger batch. People seem to like the minty twist for the holidays.
A slice of lime on the rim adds a pop of color. Little touches like that make the drink stand out.
If I want it sweeter, I’ll splash in some simple syrup. It takes the edge off the lime but doesn’t hide the mint.
The Frozen Mint Margarita is cool, crisp, and just a bit tangy. Definitely one of my favorite ways to sneak mint into a holiday cocktail.
7) Mint Basil Smash
The Mint Basil Smash is all about those fresh, garden flavors. Mint and basil together taste super crisp, which feels just right for Christmas, even if it’s not the most traditional.
I muddle fresh basil and mint leaves with a bit of sugar and lemon juice. It brings out the herbal flavors without making things bitter.
Then I add gin—it’s clean and lets the herbs shine. A few ice cubes, a quick shake, and then I strain it into a glass.
Sometimes I top it off with a little soda water for fizz, but if I want something stronger, I skip it.
Garnish is easy: a sprig of mint or basil, or maybe a thin lemon slice for color.
This drink stands out from the usual holiday cocktails. The basil makes it a little savory, and the mint keeps it light.
It’s a good pick when I want something less sweet but still refreshing. I like making it for friends because it’s easy to batch, and most people have the ingredients already.
The flavor is unique but not too out there, which is probably why people always ask for seconds.
8) Spiked Mint Lemonade
I’ve always thought fresh mint can take a regular drink and make it pop. When you throw it in with lemonade and a splash of vodka or rum, suddenly it’s a crisp Spiked Mint Lemonade—light, super refreshing, and honestly hard to put down.
First things first, I muddle a few mint leaves right in the glass. That’s really the trick for getting those mint oils out and making the flavor stand up.
After that, I pour in fresh lemonade. If I have time, I’ll squeeze real lemons—the taste is so much brighter. Store-bought lemonade works, though, when I’m in a hurry.
The tartness from the lemon just works with the mint. It’s a combo I never get tired of.
Now for the fun part: a shot of vodka. Sometimes I swap it for rum if I’m in the mood for something a bit sweeter.
Either way, it blends right in and doesn’t overpower the lemonade.
I always toss in a good amount of ice. You want it cold and crisp, not lukewarm.
A quick stir pulls everything together, and the mint leaves float up top. Looks pretty nice, right?
I’ll finish it with a lemon slice and a sprig of mint. Easy, but it makes the glass look like you tried.
It’s a great holiday party drink because you can make a single glass or a whole pitcher. Sometimes I mix up a batch ahead and just add the ice when people arrive.
9) Ginger Mint Fizz
The Ginger Mint Fizz is one of those drinks I reach for during the holidays. It’s light, refreshing, and has that sharp ginger-mint combo that’s just the right amount of sweet and spicy.
I start with fresh mint leaves—just a gentle muddle, nothing too rough, or it gets bitter. Then comes the ginger beer for that fizzy kick. It’s bubbly and matches the mint so well.
Most of the time, I add a splash of vodka or gin. But honestly, it’s just as good without booze, which is handy if you’ve got a mixed crowd.
For sweetness, a little simple syrup or honey, depending on what I’m feeling. Some days I want it bold, sometimes lighter.
Always over ice in a tall glass. The bubbles stay lively, and the mint looks sharp against the drink.
A sprig of mint and a slice of fresh ginger on top—can’t go wrong with that garnish. It smells as good as it looks.
Ginger keeps things warm, mint keeps it cool—perfect for Christmas, if you ask me.
If I want to dress it up, I’ll rim the glass with sugar crystals. Adds sparkle and looks kind of magical.
10) Mint Gin Sour
There’s something about a Mint Gin Sour that just feels right. It’s fresh, simple, and the mint twist makes it feel a bit more festive.
I shake together gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and some fresh mint leaves with ice. You want it cold, and the mint should blend in but not take over.
Strain into a small glass—it just looks cleaner that way. I always add a sprig of fresh mint on top for that extra aroma.
If I’m in the mood, I’ll use less syrup for more tartness. Or maybe toss in another mint leaf if I want a stronger note.
It’s easy to tweak depending on what you’re feeling that day.
11) Mint Coconut Cooler
The Mint Coconut Cooler is light and refreshing, but still feels like a holiday treat. I love how the coconut and mint play off each other—it’s a nice break from heavier winter drinks.
I start with coconut milk for a creamy base. Then a splash of white rum and a bit of peppermint schnapps. Not too much, or it’s overpowering.
Shake it all with ice until it’s super cold and smooth. Pour into a chilled glass, and toss a sprig of fresh mint on top.
Sometimes I rim the glass with shredded coconut. It adds a little sweetness and looks festive, which I kind of love.
Works for small get-togethers or just a quiet night. Not many ingredients, so it’s a go-to when I want something easy.
The coconut gives it a little tropical vibe, but the mint keeps it feeling seasonal. It’s a simple mix, but it feels special.
12) Mint Pineapple Punch
There’s something about fresh mint and sweet pineapple together that just works. The Mint Pineapple Punch ends up light, fruity, and honestly feels like it belongs at a holiday party.
I grab some chilled pineapple juice and add a splash of sparkling water for bubbles. Crushed mint leaves go in next—just enough to bring that cool flavor.
Serving it in a clear bowl is my go-to. The yellow color pops, and those mint sprigs on top make it look festive.
If I want to give it a kick, I’ll mix in a little rum or vodka. It blends right in and keeps things balanced.
For parties with kids, I skip the alcohol. Still tastes bright and fun.
Sometimes I freeze mint leaves or pineapple chunks in the ice cubes. It’s a small touch, but people always notice.
I usually make a big batch—this punch disappears fast at gatherings.
It pairs well with both sweet and savory snacks. I think it’s especially good with cheese plates or salty appetizers.
If the juice is too strong, I just add more sparkling water. Want it sweeter? A splash of simple syrup does the trick.
It’s quick to put together. Just a few ingredients, and you’ve got a festive drink in minutes.
Whenever I serve Mint Pineapple Punch, it feels cheerful and easy. It’s a bright, tropical touch for Christmas that doesn’t take much effort.
13) Mint Lime Spritz
I’m a big fan of how fresh and light this Mint Lime Spritz turns out. It’s bright and crisp—just right for when you want something simple at a holiday get-together.
I mix fresh lime juice, a few torn mint leaves, and some simple syrup. Shake it with ice so everything wakes up.
Then I top it off with sparkling water or club soda. The fizz makes it feel fun and festive, but not heavy.
Sometimes I’ll add a little vodka or gin. If not, it’s a great mocktail too.
Tall glass, lots of ice, and a lime wheel with a mint sprig on top. That’s the look.
Easy to tweak—more syrup if you want sweet, more lime if you want it sharp.
The mint and lime balance is refreshing but doesn’t take over. Nice change from creamy holiday drinks, honestly.
Pairs well with salty snacks or light appetizers. The citrus cuts through rich foods, which is a win at parties.
If I’m in a rush, I skip the shaker and just stir it all in the glass. Still tastes clean and bright.
Takes almost no time to make. I can whip up a batch even if guests show up early.
14) Mint Blackberry Bramble
The Mint Blackberry Bramble is one of those drinks that looks as good as it tastes. Fresh berries and cool mint together just feel right for the holidays.
I muddle a few blackberries with fresh mint leaves. Add in gin, lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup. Shake it with ice and strain into a glass.
I usually top it with a bit of soda water. The mint keeps it bright, and the blackberries give it that sweet-tart flavor.
Garnish is easy—a mint sprig and a couple of blackberries on a cocktail pick. Looks polished without much fuss.
It’s easy to make a big batch for a party. Just mix the base in a pitcher, add soda water when you’re ready to serve.
The combo of berries, mint, and citrus is balanced—not too sweet, not too much. Good for anyone who wants something fruity but not over the top.
I like it in a short glass with crushed ice. Keeps it cold and adds a nice texture as it melts.
The Mint Blackberry Bramble is simple but feels a little special. That’s why it’s always on my holiday cocktail list.
15) Mint Apple Mule
Honestly, there’s just something about a Mint Apple Mule that hits different during the holidays. It’s got that cool minty vibe, mixed with the sweet tang of apple—kind of festive, but also super refreshing.
I usually reach for vodka as the base. After that, I’ll pour in some apple cider for a bit of sweetness and then a splash of ginger beer to give it some fizz and a little bite.
Fresh mint leaves are a must, in my opinion. They brighten everything up and give the drink this cooling note that really ties it together.
I tend to muddle the mint leaves right at the bottom of the glass before I add any ice. That way, the oils get released and the whole drink smells amazing.
Once that’s done, I go in with the vodka, cider, and ginger beer, then just give it a gentle stir. Nothing too fancy.
For garnish, I’ll usually throw on a thin apple slice and maybe a sprig of mint. It’s simple, but it looks festive—sometimes I even grab a copper mug to keep it cold longer, just for that extra touch.
The combo of apple cider and ginger beer gives it this crisp, almost sharp edge. Mint softens things up, so every sip feels a little lighter.
If I’m being honest, it’s a go-to for smaller gatherings. Super easy to make one at a time, but you can totally scale it up in a pitcher if you’ve got people over.
Guests can just pour their own and hang out—no waiting around.
