I’m always looking for ways to make the holidays feel more fun and welcoming.
Drinks really help set the mood, and honestly, a festive cocktail can turn even a regular night into something memorable.
You don’t need fancy skills or rare ingredients to whip up easy Christmas cocktails.
I’ve put together a bunch of ideas, from cozy classics to bright, bubbly drinks.
Whether you’re after something creamy, spiced, fruity, or just plain refreshing, you’ll find a bunch of options to fit the holiday vibe.
1) Classic Eggnog
When Christmas rolls around, Classic eggnog is always the first thing I think of. It’s rich and creamy—kind of like a holiday hug in a glass.
I make it with milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and nutmeg. Everything gets whisked together until smooth, then I chill it so it’s nice and cold.
For a grown-up version, I’ll add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy. It warms things up a bit but doesn’t take over the flavor.
A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon on top makes it look and taste even more festive. Sometimes I’ll make a non-alcoholic batch too, so everyone can have some, even the kids.
It’s honestly so easy to prep ahead. I just keep a pitcher in the fridge and pour a glass whenever someone stops by.
2) Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is one of my favorite holiday drinks. It’s warm, comforting, and fills the whole house with that cozy, spicy smell.
I heat up red wine with cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. A little orange peel adds a bright citrusy note that really works.
I keep the heat low—boiling it would just cook off the good stuff. It lets the flavors meld without losing the kick.
Sometimes I’ll add honey or sugar if I want it a touch sweeter. It’s easy to tweak and taste as I go.
I serve it in mugs or heatproof glasses, usually with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for garnish.
It’s great for a group, too. One pot, everyone helps themselves, and you’re good.
If I’m missing a spice or two, I don’t stress. Even just a couple basics still make it delicious.
3) Peppermint Martini
A Peppermint Martini just screams holiday to me. It’s festive, cool, and the minty flavor is such a nice change of pace.
I shake together vodka, peppermint schnapps, and white crème de cacao with ice. The result is crisp, a little sweet, and goes down easy.
Rimming the glass with crushed candy canes? Always a hit. It adds crunch and looks super cute.
Sometimes I’ll drop a mini candy cane in the glass for garnish. Why not?
It’s creamy and cool, but not heavy at all. The peppermint pops but doesn’t take over—just the right balance.
I usually make these for small get-togethers. They’re quick, and even people who aren’t into martinis seem to love them.
If I’m in the mood for something richer, I’ll splash in a bit of cream or half-and-half. Otherwise, I stick to the basics for a lighter sip.
Honestly, it’s the perfect dessert drink. The mint is refreshing and kind of resets your palate after a big meal.
4) Cranberry Moscow Mule
The Cranberry Moscow Mule is a go-to for me during the holidays. It’s so easy and the flavors are just right—tart, spicy, and not too sweet.
I mix up vodka, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and ginger beer in a copper mug packed with ice. That mug keeps everything icy cold, which I love.
Fresh cranberries and a lime wedge make it look festive with zero effort. Sometimes I’ll toss in a sprig of rosemary if I’m feeling fancy.
The tart cranberry with the spicy ginger beer is a combo I never get tired of. It’s light enough to sip before dinner but still has plenty of flavor.
If I want it less boozy, I just add more ginger beer. For a punchier taste, a little extra cranberry juice does the trick.
It’s one of those drinks that comes together fast, which is perfect when people drop by.
5) Gingerbread Old Fashioned
Sometimes I want to give a classic cocktail a holiday spin. The Gingerbread Old Fashioned does exactly that—bourbon with a cozy, spiced twist.
I stir bourbon with a bit of gingerbread syrup and a few dashes of bitters. The syrup adds sweetness and those warm spices, but the bourbon still shines.
Big ice cubes are a must for me—keeps it cold without watering it down too fast. A twist of orange peel on top brings a fresh smell that cuts through the spice.
If I have them, I’ll stick a tiny gingerbread cookie on the rim. It’s cute and makes the drink feel extra special.
6) Holiday Sangria
Holiday Sangria is one of those “set it and forget it” drinks that always works for a crowd. It’s colorful, festive, and honestly, pretty forgiving.
I start with a bottle of red wine, then add a splash of orange juice and a little brandy for depth.
A bit of honey or maple syrup helps balance out any tartness from the fruit. It smooths everything out.
I slice up oranges, apples, and pears, and sometimes toss in a handful of cranberries for that holiday look.
Right before serving, I top it with club soda or ginger ale for a little fizz. Makes it feel lighter and more refreshing.
I always let it chill for a few hours so the flavors come together. The longer it sits, the better it gets.
When I pour, I make sure to scoop some fruit into every glass. It just looks more fun that way.
If I’m feeling like changing it up, I’ll use white wine instead. It’s lighter and goes well with green apples and citrus.
This recipe is super flexible, so I just use whatever fruit or sweetener I have on hand. Makes things easier, especially during the holidays.
7) Poinsettia Cocktail
The Poinsettia Cocktail is one of those drinks that looks impressive but takes almost no effort. The bright red color is perfect for Christmas, and I usually have everything I need already.
It’s just cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and sparkling wine. Light, crisp, and a little tart—easy to sip before or after a meal.
I pour a splash of orange liqueur, add chilled cranberry juice, and top it off with sparkling wine. That bubbly finish is what makes it feel special.
Sometimes I’ll garnish with a twist of orange peel, or throw a few cranberries in for extra color.
It’s so simple to make a bunch at once, which is great if people drop by. No fuss, just pour and enjoy.
This cocktail works for brunch, dinner, or even a casual get-together. The recipe is easy and the ingredients are never hard to find.
8) Spiced Apple Cider Punch
Spiced Apple Cider Punch is one of my favorites when I want something warm and comforting. It’s cozy, easy, and smells like the holidays.
I use apple cider as the base, then add a splash of rum or bourbon for a little kick. For a non-alcoholic version, I just skip the booze—still tastes great.
Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise go in for that classic holiday spice. I’ll sometimes add slices of orange or apple for sweetness and color.
I warm it on the stove for about 15 minutes so the flavors come together. If I’m hosting, I keep it in a slow cooker so it stays hot all night.
When serving, I ladle it into mugs and top with a cinnamon stick or an apple slice. It looks inviting without any extra work.
This punch is great for any size group, and I love that I can make it ahead and just reheat. One less thing to worry about when people arrive.
The combo of warm spices and crisp apple is just classic. It’s a simple recipe, but it always gets compliments.
9) Candy Cane Cocktail
Honestly, I just love how this Candy Cane Cocktail brings a pop of sweetness to the holiday season. It’s colorful, super simple, and always looks so festive on the table.
I usually start with peppermint schnapps for that cool, minty kick. Then I add vodka and a splash of cranberry juice—it helps balance everything out.
If I’m feeling a little extra, I’ll rim the glass with crushed candy canes. It adds flavor, sure, but it’s mostly for the cute striped look.
I tend to serve this in a martini glass just because it feels a bit fancier. That bright red color really stands out at holiday gatherings, doesn’t it?
Sometimes I want it sweeter, so I’ll toss in a bit of simple syrup. Or, if I’m in the mood for something lighter, I’ll use club soda instead.
This drink comes together in just a few minutes. I appreciate not having to dig out a ton of ingredients.
I try to keep a few candy canes around for garnish or to use as stirrers. It’s a little thing, but it makes the drink way more festive.
When I serve this to friends, the first thing they mention is the minty aroma. It’s refreshing but not too in-your-face.
I feel like this cocktail works best as an after-dinner drink. It’s kind of like a sweet holiday treat in a glass.
10) Christmas Mimosa
I love making a Christmas Mimosa because it’s quick, festive, and always so pretty on the table. It only needs a couple of ingredients, so I never stress about it.
First, I pour orange juice into a champagne flute. Then I top it off with sparkling wine or champagne—it just feels light and refreshing, perfect for brunch.
For a little holiday twist, I add a splash of cranberry juice. It gives the drink that bright red color, which is super cheerful. Sometimes, if I’m bored with orange juice, I’ll swap in pomegranate juice for a change.
I also like to add a garnish. A few fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary make the glass look special, and it barely takes any effort.
It’s easy to adjust, too. If I want it sweeter, I add more juice. If I want it stronger, I just pour in extra champagne. Super flexible.
I usually serve this when I’m hosting breakfast or brunch on Christmas morning. It’s celebratory without being heavy, and I can whip up several glasses in just a few minutes.
This drink always gets compliments for looking elegant, even though it’s so little work. I like that I can actually enjoy time with family instead of fussing over drinks.
11) Winter Margarita
I really like making a Winter Margarita—it feels festive but still has that refreshing vibe. It’s just a twist on the classic margarita, but with flavors that fit the season.
I go with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur for the base. To make it wintry, I add a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice. The color pops, and it adds a tart edge.
For sweetness, I’ll use a little honey or agave syrup. It keeps things balanced without making it heavy. I shake everything up with ice until it’s nice and cold.
I usually rim the glass with salt or sugar. Sometimes I’ll mix in cinnamon sugar, just for a warmer flavor. It looks festive and adds a little something extra.
To finish, I throw on a lime wedge or a few cranberries. The garnish just makes it look more seasonal.
This cocktail is great for small gatherings or even a quiet night at home. It’s easy to make one glass or a whole batch for friends.
The Winter Margarita has that nice balance of bright citrus and cozy holiday flavors. It’s one of my go-to drinks when I want something easy but still a little special.
12) Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
I love giving classic drinks a holiday spin, and the Cinnamon Whiskey Sour totally does that. It takes the familiar sour and just warms it up with a bit of spice.
I mix whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of cinnamon. The cinnamon pairs with the tart lemon and smooth whiskey for a cozy balance.
I usually shake it with ice until it’s chilled, then strain it into a glass. A cinnamon stick or lemon slice is all it needs for garnish—easy and festive.
This cocktail feels both refreshing and warm, which is kind of perfect for holiday gatherings. The cinnamon adds flavor but doesn’t overpower.
If I’m in the mood for something sweeter, I’ll add more syrup. If I want it sharper, I just use extra lemon juice. Super easy to tweak.
The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is quick to mix and doesn’t need anything fancy. That makes it a reliable choice when I’m hosting or just want something seasonal at home.
13) Frosty White Russian
I love making a Frosty White Russian during the holidays. It’s creamy and festive, but honestly, it’s not hard to mix up at all.
To make it, I fill a glass with ice. Then I pour in vodka and coffee liqueur. I finish with a layer of cold cream or milk—it slowly blends into the drink, which looks cool.
For a more frosty feel, I’ll use crushed ice instead of cubes. It makes the drink smoother and gives that snowy look. A quick stir brings it together without ruining the layers.
I like to top mine with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. It adds a warm holiday flavor and just looks festive. Sometimes I’ll stick a little candy cane on the rim for fun.
This cocktail works for both small hangouts and bigger parties. It’s quick to make, and people love that creamy mix of coffee and vodka. I think it’s a great pick when I want something rich but still easy to sip.
14) Cranberry Gin Fizz
I love making a Cranberry Gin Fizz around the holidays. It’s refreshing, festive, and that bright red color just looks so good on a Christmas table.
To make it, I mix gin, cranberry juice, and lemon juice in a shaker with ice. After a quick shake, I strain it into a glass and top it with club soda for some fizz.
If I can get fresh cranberry juice, I use it—it’s got a sharper taste. If I’m stuck with bottled, I try to pick one that’s not too sweet so the drink stays balanced.
For garnish, I usually toss in a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. The rosemary kind of looks like a mini Christmas tree, which is cute, and the cranberries float on top.
This cocktail’s great for small gatherings since I can make one glass at a time. If I need more, I just scale up and serve it in a pitcher.
Sometimes I want more fizz, so I add extra soda. Other times, I want the gin to stand out, so I use less. It’s easy to play with.
I love how quick it is to make, especially when guests show up and I want to hand them something right away.
The Cranberry Gin Fizz gives me a nice mix of tart, sweet, and bubbly. I keep coming back to it every December.
15) Maple Bourbon Smash
I really like how simple this drink is. The Maple Bourbon Smash blends sweet maple syrup with bourbon’s warmth—it just feels cozy but still kind of refreshing.
I start by mixing fresh lemon juice with a spoonful of maple syrup. The lemon keeps it bright and stops things from getting too sweet.
Then I add a shot of bourbon and a few mint leaves. The mint gives it a fresh kick that lightens the whole thing up.
I shake everything with ice until it’s cold, then strain it into a short glass with fresh ice.
To finish, I usually add a sprig of mint or maybe a thin slice of lemon. It just looks clean and festive that way.
It’s really easy to adjust. If I want it sweeter, I just pour in a bit more maple syrup. If I want it stronger, well, more bourbon.
This cocktail fits right in at small holiday gatherings. It’s seasonal, but not too heavy.
I like serving it with simple snacks like cheese or nuts. The flavors play together nicely without fighting for attention.
The Maple Bourbon Smash has just a handful of ingredients, but it tastes balanced and smooth. It’s one of my go-to holiday drinks because it’s fast and always a hit.
16) Holiday Negroni
I love making a Holiday Negroni because it feels festive but isn’t complicated. It’s just a twist on the classic, but the flavors work for the season.
I start with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari—the usual trio. For a holiday vibe, I’ll add a splash of cranberry juice or maybe some orange liqueur.
The drink looks great in the glass. That deep red color is perfect for Christmas. I usually go for a short glass with a big ice cube.
For garnish, I use a slice of orange or a few cranberries. Sometimes I’ll throw in a sprig of rosemary to make it look extra festive.
It’s easy to prepare. I can mix one up in just a few minutes, which is nice when friends or family drop by.
The flavor is bold, a little bitter, and balanced by just enough sweetness. The cranberry or orange liqueur makes it brighter and more seasonal.
I think this drink pairs well with salty snacks or a cheese board. It’s a good option to sip before dinner or just while hanging out by the tree.
If I want to make it ahead, I’ll mix up a batch in a pitcher and pour it over ice when guests arrive. It saves time and keeps things relaxed.
For me, the Holiday Negroni is a classic Christmas cocktail. It’s colorful, easy to share, and just feels right for the season.
17) Snowball Cocktail
I really enjoy making a Snowball Cocktail around the holidays. It just feels festive and playful, but not fussy at all.
It’s creamy and light, with just enough sweetness—not over the top.
The drink usually starts with advocaat, a smooth, eggy liqueur that’s surprisingly good. I add lemonade and a splash of lime juice to keep things bright and refreshing.
That creamy-citrus combo is just easy to sip.
I like serving it in a small glass packed with ice. The pale yellow color is so cheerful, it just kind of blends in with all the Christmas decorations.
Sometimes I’ll toss on a cherry or a lime slice for a quick garnish.
It comes together fast, honestly. I can pour, stir, and be done in under a minute, which is a lifesaver when I want something festive but I’m short on time.
Whenever I make this for friends, they’re usually surprised by how good it is. Most people don’t expect creamy advocaat and fizzy lemonade to work together, but it just does.
I keep this recipe in my back pocket for last-minute gatherings. It’s only a few ingredients, and I almost always have what I need—makes it a go-to Christmas cocktail for me.
18) Chocolate Peppermint Martini
I can’t resist a Chocolate Peppermint Martini during the holidays. It’s festive, a little decadent, but still super easy.
Chocolate and peppermint together always remind me of Christmas candy, which is maybe why I love this so much.
To make it, I usually grab vodka, crème de cacao, and peppermint schnapps. I shake everything with ice until it’s good and cold.
The flavors balance out—sweet chocolatey base, cool minty finish.
I always serve it in a martini glass with a crushed candy cane rim. That little crunch is fun and makes the drink look extra festive.
Sometimes I’ll stick a mini candy cane in there as a stirrer, just because.
This one’s perfect after dinner. It tastes kind of like dessert in a glass, but it’s not too heavy or rich.
If I’m making these for friends, I’ll mix up a small batch ahead of time and keep it chilled. That way I’m not stuck shaking cocktails while everyone’s chatting.
People almost always compliment the flavor combo—it’s simple, but feels special.
Chocolate and peppermint are classic for the holidays, and this martini just brings them together in a way that’s both easy and impressive.
19) Sparkling Pomegranate Punch
I love making Sparkling Pomegranate Punch when I need something festive that’s not a hassle. The color alone makes it look perfect on a holiday table.
The flavor’s light and super refreshing, which is always nice when there’s a lot of rich food around.
To make it, I just mix pomegranate juice with a splash of orange juice for a little sweetness. Then I top it off with sparkling water or prosecco—whatever I have—to give it some bubbles.
I always toss in a handful of fresh pomegranate seeds. They float around and make the drink look really cheerful.
Sometimes I’ll add a few orange slices too, just for the extra pop of color.
If I want it kid-friendly, I skip the booze and use sparkling water or ginger ale. Still tastes bright and fun, and everyone can have a glass.
I usually serve this in a clear pitcher so that pretty red color shows off. It’s quick, simple, and people notice it.
When I need a holiday drink that looks good and takes almost no time, this one’s always near the top of my list.
20) Rum Eggnog
I honestly love making Rum Eggnog during the holidays. It’s classic, comforting, and just feels right when it’s cold outside.
Mixing creamy eggnog with smooth rum makes it rich, but not too much. It’s easy to sip, especially by the fire.
I usually just grab chilled eggnog from the store to save time. Then I add a shot of dark or spiced rum—depends on what’s on hand.
The rum blends in so well with the sweet, creamy base.
To make it feel a little more festive, I sprinkle some nutmeg or cinnamon on top. Sometimes I’ll go for whipped cream if I’m feeling extra.
It looks simple, but it always feels special.
I serve it in small glasses since it’s pretty rich. A little goes a long way, and it keeps the flavors balanced.
If I want it lighter, I’ll mix in a splash of milk to thin it out. Makes it less heavy but still keeps that holiday flavor.
When friends stop by, I’ll make a small batch in a pitcher so everyone can help themselves. It saves me from mixing each glass separately.
I’ve noticed spiced rum gives it more of a kick, while dark rum keeps things smoother. I just use whatever’s in the cabinet.
This is probably one of the easiest holiday cocktails I make. Just eggnog, rum, and a little spice, and it’s done in minutes.
21) Christmas Mule
There’s something about a Christmas Mule that makes it my go-to when I want something fast and festive. It’s a holiday spin on the Moscow Mule, and honestly, it just looks great in a copper mug.
To make it, I start with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. Then I splash in a little cranberry juice—not much, just enough for color and a hint of tartness.
I serve it over ice in a copper mug because it keeps the drink super cold. Plus, the shiny mug just screams holiday.
For garnish, I toss in fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. Sometimes a lime wedge too, if I’m feeling fancy.
The drink is crisp and refreshing, with sweet, tart, and spicy notes all at once. The ginger beer gives it a kick, and the cranberry juice makes it feel seasonal.
I like that it works for both small hangouts and bigger parties. It’s easy to make one at a time or just mix up a pitcher.
People always notice how colorful and festive it looks. It’s a simple way to bring some holiday cheer without a lot of effort.
And the ingredient list is short, which is always a plus. I can usually throw it together with what I’ve already got.
22) Ginger Snap Cocktail
Making a Ginger Snap Cocktail during the holidays is kind of a tradition for me. It’s simple, cozy, and has just enough spice to feel special.
I usually start with ginger liqueur or ginger beer for that spicy base. Then I add vodka to keep things smooth.
A splash of coffee liqueur brings in a sweet, roasty note that really works with the ginger.
I shake everything with ice until it’s chilled, then strain into a glass. Sometimes I’ll top it with more ginger beer if I want a little fizz.
For garnish, I like a cinnamon stick or even a tiny ginger cookie on the rim. It’s festive and adds a fun touch.
The flavors are a mix of spice, sweetness, and warmth—perfect for a Christmas get-together.
It’s quick to make, and I never need a bunch of fancy ingredients.
When friends come over, I can whip these up in no time. The ginger stands out, but the coffee liqueur adds depth without being too much.
It’s not heavy, so I can sip it slowly and just hang out.
Sometimes I swap in dark rum instead of vodka for a richer flavor. Both versions work, honestly.
Making a Ginger Snap Cocktail always puts me in the holiday mood. It’s tasty, easy, and a nice break from the usual drinks.
23) Apple Cider Margarita
I love the idea of taking a classic margarita and giving it a fall twist. This Apple Cider Margarita keeps the tangy kick but adds that warm, crisp cider flavor.
It’s festive, but not too heavy—kind of perfect for a holiday get-together.
I just shake together apple cider, tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. Sometimes I’ll add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy vibe.
It’s a simple mix, but it feels special every time.
I usually rim the glass with cinnamon sugar. It adds a little sweetness and looks great for the holidays.
A slice of apple or a cinnamon stick works as garnish too, if I have them around.
The balance of tart lime and sweet cider makes this one easy to drink. It’s refreshing, but still feels seasonal—just right for Christmas.
I keep my ingredients chilled so the drink stays crisp. If I’m making a batch, I’ll stir it in a pitcher and pour over ice when people are ready.
This cocktail doesn’t need any fancy tools. I’ll use a shaker or even just a jar with a lid if that’s what’s handy.
That makes it easy to mix up more if guests want another round.
The apple flavor stands out, but it’s not overpowering. It actually pairs well with savory snacks—cheese, nuts, crackers, you name it.
If I want a lighter version, I’ll top it off with a splash of sparkling water. Adds a little fizz and makes it even easier to sip.
The Apple Cider Margarita is one of my favorite holiday drinks because it’s festive but still super simple. It’s a nice change from the usual heavier Christmas cocktails.
24) Santa’s Little Helper
I like to make Santa’s Little Helper when I want something fun and festive but don’t feel like doing a ton of work. It’s got this bright color that just pops in a holiday glass, and the taste is sweet without being over the top.
To put it together, I mix vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps. The flavors seem to blend really well, and that peppermint finish just screams Christmas to me.
I usually pour it over ice in a short glass. Adding a little candy cane on the rim makes it look extra cheerful, and if you give it a stir, you get a bit more peppermint.
This drink’s a bit stronger than some of the other fruity cocktails, so I tend to sip it slowly. The combo of coffee and mint is kind of cozy, but it’s still refreshing.
When friends come by, I’ll prep a few glasses ahead. It’s easy to pour and garnish, so I don’t have to fuss but it still feels festive.
If I’m in the mood for something creamier, I’ll toss in a splash of half-and-half or cream. It softens everything up and makes it super smooth.
I think Santa’s Little Helper works best as an after-dinner drink. It goes nicely with cookies, chocolates—any of those little holiday desserts.
Even though it looks pretty fancy, it only takes a few minutes to throw together. That’s honestly why it’s one of my go-tos when things get hectic around the holidays.
25) Festive French 75
I love making a Festive French 75 during the holidays because it feels fancy, but it’s honestly so simple. Just a handful of ingredients, and it always looks elegant in a champagne glass.
To make it, I shake up gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice. Then I strain it into a flute and top it off with some chilled champagne.
The bubbles make it feel light and a bit celebratory. The lemon really balances the gin, and the champagne gives it that crisp finish I like.
It’s not too sweet, which I appreciate—makes it easy to enjoy with a big holiday meal. I usually go for a lemon twist as a garnish.
It’s such a small thing, but the color and fresh scent make the drink feel even more festive. This cocktail’s perfect for a holiday toast, honestly.
It feels special, but it doesn’t take much time at all to whip up. When I serve it, I notice guests really like how clean and balanced it tastes.
It’s kind of a nice change from all those heavier holiday drinks. If I want it sweeter, I just add a bit more syrup.
If I’m in the mood for something sharper, I’ll squeeze in extra lemon juice. The French 75 is always one of my top picks—looks impressive, but really doesn’t require any special skills.
26) White Chocolate Raspberry Martini
There’s something about this White Chocolate Raspberry Martini that just feels sweet and festive. The white chocolate liqueur gives it a creamy base, and the raspberry flavor adds this bright, fruity twist.
It looks so elegant in a martini glass, which makes it a great pick for holiday gatherings. I usually shake vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and raspberry liqueur with ice.
Then I strain it into a chilled glass. The mix turns out smooth and balanced—not too heavy, but still rich enough for the season.
For garnish, I’ll drop in a fresh raspberry or maybe a little white chocolate shaving on top. That tiny touch makes it look polished and festive, but it’s not a hassle.
The flavor’s creamy, but there’s just enough tartness from the raspberry. I like that it’s a change from the stronger holiday drinks—it’s lighter, almost dessert-like.
Whenever I serve this, people seem to enjoy how it looks as much as how it tastes. The pale color with that pop of red really stands out on the table.
This is a good after-dinner drink, honestly. I make it when I’m craving something sweet but not too filling.
It pairs well with cookies or lighter desserts. And it’s so simple—just a few ingredients and barely any mixing time, so I get to hang out more.
Sometimes I’ll add a bit of cream for extra richness, or a splash more raspberry liqueur if I want more fruit flavor. Both versions are great, depending on what I’m in the mood for.
For me, it’s like a little treat during all the holiday chaos. Quick to make, looks pretty, and the flavor just fits right in with Christmas.
27) Holiday Mule
I love making a Holiday Mule because it’s festive but doesn’t take much effort. It’s a fun twist on the classic Moscow Mule, and honestly, it just feels right for Christmas.
I start with vodka and then add ginger beer for that spicy kick. A splash of cranberry juice gives it a pretty red color and a bit of sweetness.
I always serve it in a copper mug packed with ice. The mug keeps it super cold and makes it look extra special.
For garnish, I toss in a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. It adds that holiday color and the rosemary smells so fresh.
This cocktail takes barely any time, which is a lifesaver when I’m hosting. I can mix a few at once and not get stuck behind the bar.
I like how the ginger beer cuts the tartness of the cranberry. It’s refreshing, but still cozy enough for winter.
Sometimes I switch things up and use flavored vodka—cranberry or citrus is good. It adds a little something extra but doesn’t complicate things.
Honestly, the Holiday Mule always looks good in photos. The red and green really pop.
It works for small get-togethers or bigger parties. I can easily scale it up and make a pitcher if I need more.
28) Cranberry Bourbon Smash
I love making a Cranberry Bourbon Smash around the holidays because it’s festive but not fussy. The tart cranberry and smooth bourbon just work together.
To start, I muddle fresh cranberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice. This brings out the flavor and adds a little sweetness.
I’ll use fresh cranberries if I have them, but frozen ones are fine too. Next, I pour in a shot of bourbon and add some ice.
The bourbon gives it a warm, rich flavor that balances the fruit. I always give it a good stir so everything blends.
For a little fizz, I top it with club soda or ginger ale. That makes it lighter and more refreshing, which I like.
The slight fizz keeps it from feeling too heavy. For garnish, I add a few cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
It looks festive and only takes a second. I appreciate that I can make this drink in minutes and not miss out on time with friends or family.
If I’m making a bigger batch, I prep the cranberry and bourbon base ahead. Then I just add ice and soda when it’s time to serve.
29) Spiced Pear Martini
I like making a Spiced Pear Martini when I want something light but still festive. The pear flavor is fresh, and the spices add a cozy holiday touch.
It’s simple to mix up, but it looks elegant in the glass. I usually start with pear vodka as the base.
It gives a clean fruit flavor that goes well with warm spices. If I don’t have pear vodka, I’ll use regular vodka and a splash of pear juice.
To get that holiday vibe, I add a little cinnamon syrup or spiced simple syrup. It blends with the pear and makes the drink taste seasonal without being too much.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice keeps it bright and balanced. I shake it all with ice until it’s cold, then strain into a martini glass.
The drink comes out clear with a soft golden tint—looks nice on a holiday table. For garnish, I’ll add a thin pear slice or a cinnamon stick.
It makes the drink look polished and adds a light aroma as I sip. This cocktail feels festive but not complicated, and it’s always refreshing while still fitting the holiday mood.
30) Winter Sangria
I love making Winter Sangria because it’s simple and packed with flavor. It just feels festive, but not too heavy—plus, it’s so easy to share with friends.
I usually start with a bottle of red wine as the base. Then I’ll pour in some cranberry juice for that tart kick, and a splash of orange juice for a bit of sweetness.
Fresh fruit makes it pop, both in taste and color. I tend to slice up oranges, apples, and pears, and then toss in a handful of cranberries because, well, it’s winter.
To give it some sparkle, I top it off with a little club soda or sometimes ginger ale if I’m feeling it. That makes the drink lighter and honestly just more fun to sip.
I mix everything together in a big pitcher and let it chill for at least an hour. That’s usually enough time for the flavors to meld—though sometimes I get impatient.
When it’s time to serve, I pour it over ice and make sure every glass gets a few chunks of fruit. It always looks so bright and inviting.
If I’m in the mood for extra warmth, I’ll drop in a cinnamon stick or two. The spice just works with the fruit and wine—kind of cozy, right?
This drink’s easy to tweak. Want it sweeter? Just add more juice. Want it stronger? Use less soda.
Winter Sangria is one of my go-to holiday drinks because it’s quick to throw together and always looks festive on the table.
