Honestly, I love tossing a little heat into holiday traditions—cocktails included.
There’s just something about spices that brings out bold flavors and makes every sip feel a bit more festive, maybe even a little unexpected.
If you’re looking for drinks that’ll warm you up and keep your taste buds guessing, these spicy Christmas cocktails are a solid bet.
I’ve pulled together a bunch of creative recipes using everything from cinnamon and ginger to chili peppers and, yes, jalapeños.
Each one brings its own kind of kick, so you can play around and find that sweet, spicy, and seasonal combo for whatever holiday vibe you’re going for.
1) Spicy Cranberry Margarita
I can’t help but love a Spicy Cranberry Margarita around the holidays. It’s got sweet, tart, and heat all hanging out in one glass. The cranberry gives it that classic festive color, and the spice is what sets it apart.
I usually start with cranberry juice, lime juice, and tequila for the base. The flavors just work, and the lime keeps things bright. Sometimes I’ll splash in a little orange liqueur if I’m feeling extra.
The heat comes from fresh jalapeño slices or a dash of jalapeño-infused tequila. I tweak the amount depending on who’s drinking—some friends like it barely spicy, others want to feel the burn.
Rimming the glass with salt and chili powder is a must for me. It gives every sip a punch and looks pretty festive, too. If I’m in a sweeter mood, I’ll swap in sugar with the chili powder.
For garnish, I just toss in some fresh cranberries and a thin jalapeño slice. It’s low effort but looks bright and seasonal. Once in a while, I’ll add rosemary for that extra holiday vibe.
This one’s best served cold over ice, no question. The chill keeps the spice in check and makes it really refreshing. I go for big ice cubes so it doesn’t get watered down too fast.
When I’ve got a group, I mix up a pitcher and let it sit for a bit. The jalapeño flavor gets stronger the longer it sits, so I always taste before pouring.
The Spicy Cranberry Margarita is easy, colorful, and made for sharing. It’s my go-to when I want something festive that isn’t just another sugary drink.
2) Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey Eggnog
Mixing Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey with eggnog just works. The cinnamon heat perks up the creamy eggnog, making it feel festive but not over-the-top.
I usually grab chilled eggnog, pour in a shot of Fireball, and give it a gentle stir. The spice melts right in and makes the drink a lot more interesting.
Sometimes I’ll top it with whipped cream. A dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon looks nice and tastes even better. It’s a tiny extra step that feels worth it.
I keep the servings small since it’s pretty rich. The sweet and spicy combo keeps it from feeling too heavy, though. I like to sip it slow while hanging by the tree.
If I want to kick it up, I’ll add another splash of whiskey. For something lighter, I thin it out with a bit of milk. Depends on my mood, honestly.
This one’s great for parties because it’s so easy. I can make single glasses or throw together a pitcher. People are usually surprised by how well the cinnamon spice fits with the eggnog.
It’s barely any work—just two main ingredients and you’re set. That’s why I keep coming back to it during the busy holiday stretch.
3) Jalapeño Mulled Wine
Giving classic mulled wine a little twist with jalapeño is one of my favorite moves. It keeps all the cozy warmth but adds a gentle kick that makes every sip pop.
I start making Jalapeño Mulled Wine with a bottle of red wine, warming it with orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a bit of honey. Then I toss in a few jalapeño slices for heat.
I’m careful not to let it boil—I want the flavors to blend without cooking off the wine’s smoothness. The jalapeño brings just enough spice to balance the sweetness.
Before serving, I strain out the jalapeño so it doesn’t get too fiery. A thin orange wheel or a cinnamon stick makes for a simple garnish.
This drink’s perfect for smaller gatherings. I’ll serve it right from the pot or keep it warm in a slow cooker if I need to. That spicy edge really sets it apart from the usual mulled wine.
Usually, one jalapeño does the trick for a medium heat. If I want it milder, I ditch the seeds. If I want to go bold, I leave them in—no shame.
It’s super easy to tweak, which is part of the fun. Sweet, spicy, and warm—it’s exactly what I want on a chilly holiday night.
4) Chipotle Hot Toddy
A regular hot toddy is already cozy, but a bit of chipotle takes it to another level. The smoky, spicy flavor is such a cool twist.
I start making Chipotle Hot Toddy with hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon juice. Then, just a pinch of chipotle powder—seriously, a little goes a long way.
I’ll adjust the heat depending on who’s drinking. A tiny bit for warmth, or more if someone’s feeling brave.
The smoky chili and sweet honey work together, and the lemon keeps it bright. I love this combo for cold nights, especially when the holidays roll around.
For garnish, sometimes I’ll add a lemon slice or cinnamon stick. It adds a little flair and the cinnamon matches the chipotle’s smokiness.
This one’s best hot and fresh. I just make a couple at a time so the flavors stay lively.
Whenever I serve it, people are surprised by how smooth it is. The chipotle doesn’t overpower—it just adds a subtle spicy layer. That’s what keeps me coming back to this version.
5) Gingerbread Spiced Rum Punch
There’s something about gingerbread spices that screams holiday comfort. When I mix them into rum punch, it’s cozy but still light enough to keep sipping.
I use spiced rum as the base. It already has hints of cinnamon and vanilla, which play nicely with gingerbread flavors. Then I splash in ginger beer for fizz and extra spice.
A bit of molasses or gingerbread syrup gives it that cookie-like sweetness. I’ll add a splash of orange juice to brighten things up and keep it from tasting too dense.
Serving it in a big bowl with ice is my move. It stays cold, and people can just help themselves. Garnishes? Orange slices and cinnamon sticks—they make it look festive without much work.
If I want more ginger, I’ll grate some fresh ginger right in. It sharpens the punch and keeps the sweetness from taking over. For crowds, I double up and make it ahead.
The flavors actually get even better after sitting for a bit, so I usually mix it about an hour before guests arrive.
It’s easy to play with the recipe. For sweeter, I add more syrup. For lighter, extra ginger beer or a splash of soda water does the trick.
Honestly, the best part is how the gingerbread spice mix—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves—makes the whole thing smell amazing.
Every time I serve this Gingerbread Spiced Rum Punch, it feels like a fun, fresh take on holiday punch. It’s easy, flavorful, and always gets people talking about that warm gingerbread twist.
6) Cayenne Chocolate Martini
Sweet and spicy together? I’m in. This Cayenne Chocolate Martini hits that balance perfectly. The creamy chocolate with a hint of cayenne is just plain fun for the holidays.
I start with vodka, chocolate liqueur, and cream. Then, just a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Trust me, you don’t need much.
For a festive look, I’ll rim the glass with cocoa powder or crushed candy cane. It adds a little something extra and makes it feel like a real treat.
When I shake it all up with ice, the martini comes out smooth and chilled. It’s rich, but the spice keeps it from being too much.
I like to serve this one as a dessert cocktail after dinner. It feels kind of decadent, but the cayenne gives it a playful twist.
Sometimes I’ll grate a bit of dark chocolate on top before serving. It looks nice and adds a little texture.
Easy to tweak, too. More chocolate liqueur if I want it sweeter, or a bit more cayenne if I’m feeling bold.
Guests always seem surprised by the heat. It’s subtle, but it makes the martini stand out in a crowd of holiday drinks.
For me, the Cayenne Chocolate Martini is comfort with a little edge—the kind of drink that makes the holidays feel a bit more exciting.
7) Spiced Apple Cider Mule
Honestly, I just love making a Spiced Apple Cider Mule around the holidays. It’s basically a Moscow Mule with a cozy, seasonal twist—feels like Christmas in a mug.
I always start with apple cider as the base. The cider brings this sweet, crisp vibe that plays so well with the spices.
Next up, I mix in vodka and a splash of lime juice. The lime keeps things bright, cuts through the richness, and just makes the whole drink pop.
For that holiday feel, I toss in a pinch of cinnamon or sometimes nutmeg. Not too much—just enough to make it taste like winter without overwhelming everything else.
Then comes the ginger beer. I love how the ginger gives it a bit of a kick and makes it all fizzy and fun.
I always serve it in a copper mug packed with ice. Not only does it keep the drink super cold, but it just looks so festive on the table.
Garnish? Gotta have a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick. Simple, but it makes the drink feel a little extra for guests.
It doesn’t take long to throw together, and I can easily make a few at once for friends.
8) Habanero Bloody Mary
Some days, I just want a Bloody Mary—especially when I’m craving something savory instead of sweet. Adding habanero gives it a fiery kick that really wakes you up.
It’s bold, it’s simple, and perfect if you like a bit of heat in your holiday drinks. I always start with tomato juice, vodka, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
A tiny bit of habanero pepper goes in next. I taste as I go, since habaneros can be sneaky-strong.
I season mine with black pepper, celery salt, and hot sauce for balance. A squeeze of fresh lemon keeps things lively and refreshing.
For garnish, I usually add celery sticks, olives, or pickles—sometimes even a crispy bacon strip if I’m feeling wild.
This one’s great for holiday brunches or late afternoon get-togethers. It goes so well with eggs, ham, or roasted veggies.
The key is to use just enough habanero for a nice burn, but not so much it takes over. I chop it super fine and add it little by little.
If I want it extra spicy, I let the pepper sit in the mix a bit longer. I serve it in a tall glass with lots of ice—the cold helps balance the heat and keeps it refreshing.
9) Smoky Mezcal Hot Chocolate
Mixing Smoky mezcal with hot chocolate is one of my favorite holiday tricks. The smoky flavor just fits right in with the cozy, wintery vibe.
I start with really rich hot chocolate—the kind made from real cocoa, not the powdery stuff. Then I stir in a shot of mezcal, which adds this deep, slightly bitter smokiness.
I usually add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder on top. It gives a gentle heat and makes the drink smell incredible.
Sometimes I’ll go for a festive look and add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. If I want more spice, a little cayenne dusted over the cream does the trick.
I like sipping this one slowly on a cold night. The mix of chocolate, spice, and mezcal is somehow both comforting and a little bit daring.
10) Chili Pepper Gin Fizz
There’s something about a Chili Pepper Gin Fizz that just makes a holiday party more interesting. The combo of gin, citrus, and chili is fresh, spicy, and honestly, a little addictive.
To make it, I shake gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup with ice. I add a thin slice of fresh chili pepper for heat, then strain and top with club soda for that classic fizz.
Red chili peppers are my go-to since they look festive and bring the right amount of spice. If I want it milder, I take out the seeds before adding them.
The fizz keeps it light, which is nice when you’re sipping at a party. The chili adds just enough warmth to make you notice, but doesn’t overpower.
I usually garnish with a chili slice or a lime wheel—nothing too fancy, but it always stands out.
Best served in a tall glass with lots of ice. The cold really helps mellow out the heat from the chili.
Sometimes I muddle the chili with the syrup before shaking if I want a stronger kick and a deeper aroma.
And for friends who don’t love spice, I just do a quick chili infusion. That way, everyone can enjoy it without feeling like their mouth is on fire.
11) Sriracha Spiced Sangria
Giving a classic drink a bold twist is always fun, and this Sriracha Spiced Sangria nails it. It mixes the fruity sweetness of sangria with a gentle heat that keeps things interesting.
I start with a bottle of red wine for the base, then add orange juice, a splash of brandy, and sliced fruit—usually oranges, apples, and berries.
Then comes the fun part: a small spoon of Sriracha. I stir it in slowly, tasting as I go, since a little really does go a long way.
I let the sangria chill for at least an hour so the flavors can meld together. When it’s time to serve, I pour it over ice and top with a bit of sparkling water for some fizz.
If I want it to look festive, I toss in some pomegranate seeds or a sprig of rosemary. Makes the glass look pretty and seasonal.
It’s easy to tweak this recipe—white wine for a lighter version, different fruits if that’s what I’ve got. The Sriracha ties it all together with that spicy kick.
12) Peppermint Chili White Russian
Mixing up a White Russian with holiday flavors is one of my favorite things. This Peppermint Chili White Russian gets a cool peppermint note and a tiny bit of chili heat for a twist that’s both festive and familiar.
I stick with the basics: vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. Then I add a drop of peppermint extract and a pinch of chili powder—or sometimes a slice of fresh chili if I’m feeling bold.
I serve it over ice in a short glass, watching the cream swirl with the dark liqueur. A little candy cane stir stick makes it feel extra Christmassy.
The chili heat balances the sweetness, and the peppermint keeps it from getting too heavy. It’s easy to sip, but still feels special.
Whenever I make it for friends, I warn them about the spice level—a little chili goes a long way, so I always start light.
This one’s great for a holiday party or just a quiet night in. Creamy, minty, and with just enough kick to keep things interesting.
13) Spiced Pumpkin Spice Bourbon
Mixing pumpkin spice with bourbon just feels right when the holidays roll around. Spiced Pumpkin Spice Bourbon is warm, festive, and somehow not too sweet.
I start with a shot of bourbon and a splash of pumpkin spice syrup—honestly, a little bit is plenty.
A dash of cinnamon and nutmeg goes in for extra warmth. Those spices really bring out the bourbon’s caramel notes.
Sometimes, I add a squeeze of lemon juice to cut the sweetness and keep things fresh.
I pour it over ice in a short glass, which makes the spices pop even more.
For garnish, I usually go with a cinnamon stick or a thin slice of orange. It looks festive and smells amazing.
If I want it creamier, I top it off with a splash of half-and-half. It gets super smooth and cozy that way.
It’s a great drink for a quiet night in or when friends come over.
I like that it’s simple—just bourbon, pumpkin spice syrup, and a couple spices, and I’m done in minutes.
The flavor reminds me of holiday baking, but it’s still a strong cocktail. The bourbon doesn’t get lost, even with all the spice.
Sometimes I prep a batch ahead for guests—just mix the bourbon and syrup, chill it, then add ice and garnish when it’s time to serve.
It feels festive and easy, which is probably why I keep making it every holiday season.
14) Ghost Pepper Margarita
Honestly, I like to make this drink when I’m in the mood for something bold and a little wild. The Ghost Pepper Margarita takes classic margarita flavors and just throws in this sharp, fiery kick.
It’s definitely not for everyone. If you’re into spice though, you’ve gotta give it a shot.
I start with the usual suspects: tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. Then comes the fun part—a small splash of ghost pepper syrup for that unmistakable heat.
You don’t need much of it; trust me, a little goes a long way. I always add it slowly and taste as I go.
To keep the spice from totally taking over, I make sure to use really fresh lime juice. The citrus brightens everything up and keeps it from being overwhelming.
Sometimes I’ll toss in a bit of simple syrup if it needs a touch of sweetness. It’s all about finding that balance.
Oh, and I love rimming the glass with salt and chili powder. It gives you that punch of flavor right from the first sip.
Plus, it just looks festive—honestly, it kind of steals the show on a holiday table.
Whenever I serve this, I always warn people: it’s spicy, seriously. Ghost peppers are no joke—even a drop of syrup can sneak up on you.
Usually I’ll start with the tiniest bit and let folks decide if they want more heat. Better safe than sorry, right?
If I’m after a smoother drink, I shake it up with ice until it’s super cold. That chill really helps mellow the spice.
I pour it into a short glass over fresh ice, and it just feels right—cold, spicy, and somehow refreshing.
Honestly, this cocktail goes great with salty snacks or those heavier holiday foods. The heat cuts right through and keeps things interesting.
It’s a fun way to break up the usual Christmas drinks and get people chatting.
15) Cinnamon Chili Old Fashioned
I’ve always liked giving the classic Old Fashioned a bit of a holiday spin. This one’s got warm cinnamon and just a hint of chili heat—it honestly stands out at any Christmas get-together.
So, here’s how I do Cinnamon Chili Old Fashioned: bourbon is the base, of course. I make a simple syrup with cinnamon sticks and a little chili pepper thrown in, just enough.
The sweet and spicy thing going on really balances out the bourbon. I stir it all up with ice until it’s cold and kind of silky.
A dash of aromatic bitters brings everything together, and the drink still feels like an Old Fashioned, but with some extra festive flair. For the garnish, I usually go with a cinnamon stick and a thin slice of fresh chili.
It looks pretty simple but, wow, it really gives off that bold holiday vibe. Sometimes I’ll toss in an orange peel too, just for a bit of citrus on the nose.
This is the kind of cocktail that works well for small groups. I’ll make extra cinnamon chili syrup ahead of time and stash it in the fridge.
That way, when people show up, I can mix drinks fast without any hassle. The flavor’s smooth and warming, with just enough heat to keep things interesting.
If you like classic cocktails but want something a little different for the season, this is a solid pick. Cinnamon and chili together make for a cozy, lively drink—kind of perfect for a winter night, if you ask me.
It’s simple, festive, and honestly, friends always seem to love it.
