The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a warm, cozy drink in hand?
Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to unwind after a long day of holiday shopping, a bourbon cocktail is the perfect way to get into the spirit of the season. But with so many recipes out there, where do you even begin?
Well, fear not, my friends, because I've got you covered. As a seasoned bartender, I've had my fair share of bourbon cocktails over the years, and I know a thing or two about what makes a drink truly special.
From classic recipes with a festive twist to innovative concoctions that will blow your mind, I've scoured the internet and my own personal recipe book to bring you the best of the best.
But why bourbon, you may ask? Well, for starters, bourbon is a quintessentially American spirit, with a rich history that dates back to the 18th century.
It's made from at least 51% corn and aged in charred oak barrels, giving it a distinct flavor profile that's perfect for sipping on a chilly winter night. Plus, bourbon is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a wide range of flavors and ingredients.
So, whether you're a bourbon aficionado or a newcomer to the world of whiskey, there's a holiday bourbon cocktail out there for you.
So sit back, relax, and let me guide you through the best recipes to help you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
1. The Blizzard
If you're looking for a unique and refreshing bourbon cocktail to serve during the winter holidays, "The Blizzard" is a must-try. This slightly sweet cocktail features a balanced blend of bourbon, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
The drink is garnished with a slice of lemon or a couple of cranberries, making it a festive addition to any holiday party. The cocktail is not too fruity or sweet, and the bourbon flavor is not overpowering. It's a refreshing and delicious drink that is sure to impress your guests. So, if you're looking for a new holiday cocktail to try, give "The Blizzard" a shot.
2. Toasted Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
The Toasted Apple Cider Bourbon Smash is a delicious holiday cocktail that balances the flavors of fall and Christmas with its mix of apple cider, maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, and orange liquor. The use of Basil Hayden Toasted bourbon adds a unique toasted flavor that sets it apart from other bourbon cocktails.
The rim of the glass is coated with maple syrup and cinnamon sugar, which adds an extra layer of sweetness to the drink. The aroma of rosemary and cinnamon stick enhances the flavor of the cocktail, making it a treat for the senses. This cocktail is easy to make and is perfect for holiday gatherings.
3. White Chocolate Bourbon Eggnog
Looking for a festive and delicious holiday cocktail? Look no further than the White Chocolate Bourbon Eggnog. This cocktail is a twist on the classic eggnog, with the addition of rich white chocolate and smooth bourbon whiskey. The creamy texture and warm, caramel undertones make it the perfect drink to enjoy by the fire on a chilly winter evening.
The cocktail is easy to make, and the addition of a dusting of apple pie spice and a star anise pod make it a beautiful and classic-looking drink. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a special treat to enjoy at home, the White Chocolate Bourbon Eggnog is sure to impress. So why not mix up a batch and raise a glass to the holiday season?
4. White Christmas Bourbon Smash
The White Christmas Bourbon Smash is a perfect holiday cocktail that will get you in the festive spirit. Made with bourbon, lime juice, fresh mint, and rosemary, this cocktail packs a punch of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The addition of fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary give it a beautiful holiday touch. Even if you're not a fan of dark liquors, this cocktail might just change your mind. The White Christmas Bourbon Smash is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little holiday cheer to their cocktail game.
5. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This cocktail is a must-try for bourbon lovers and those who are new to the world of bourbon. The secret ingredients of this cocktail are the maple cranberries and the maple cranberry syrup, which are easy to make.
The cocktail is garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary and fresh cranberries, making it a perfect holiday drink. The combination of maple, cranberries, and bourbon is a cold-weather cocktail perfection that will warm you up during the holiday season. If you're looking for a delicious and festive bourbon cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try.
6. Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a festive and flavorful drink that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is made with spiced cranberry juice, bourbon, and ginger beer, and is topped with freshly grated nutmeg for an added touch of holiday cheer. The tartness of the cranberry juice is balanced perfectly with the warmth of the seasonal spices and the smoothness of the bourbon.
The ginger beer adds a slight fizz to the cocktail, making it a refreshing and easy-to-drink option for any holiday gathering. Overall, the Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress your guests and get everyone into the holiday spirit.
7. Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a cozy and warming cocktail perfect for fall and winter. It's made with homemade spiced chai syrup, high-quality bourbon, winter citrus, and a touch of vanilla.
The chai syrup provides a sweet and spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the bourbon, while the citrus adds a bright note. It's not too sweet and not too heavy on the bourbon, making it a crowd-pleaser. The perfect drink to serve at Thanksgiving and throughout the holiday season.
8. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors that will leave you feeling festive and cheerful. The cocktail is made with equal parts of bourbon and cranberry juice, which gives it a smooth and easy-sipping quality. The addition of rosemary sage simple syrup adds a fresh, seasonal flavor that complements the bourbon and cranberry juice perfectly.
This cocktail is a great option for any special occasion, including Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, and Christmas. It is easy to make and can be served in a rocks glass, stemless wine glass, or a classic coupe. The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and festive holiday drink.
9. Bourbon Smash Cocktail
The Bourbon Smash Cocktail is a perfect blend of rich and rustic flavors that will warm you up during the holiday season. This cocktail is a fresh and seasonal twist on the classic whiskey smash recipe, with the addition of fresh blueberries and a hint of cinnamon.
The bourbon adds a distinct flavor to the cocktail, which is balanced by the sweetness of simple syrup and the tanginess of lemon. The Bourbon Smash Cocktail is a strong and delicious drink that is perfect for sipping by the fire on a cold winter night. If you are a fan of bourbon, this cocktail is a must-try during the holiday season.
10. Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. It's a classic cocktail with a twist of seasonal flavors, including spiced rosemary and honey simple syrup, warming bourbon, lemon, and orange. The combination of sweet honey and warming spices, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, simmered together with woodsy rosemary, and finished off with fresh orange zest and a splash of sweet vanilla, makes this cocktail a must-try.
This cocktail is perfect for both Thanksgiving and Christmas and can be easily made in large batches for serving guests. The addition of candied rosemary adds a pretty, glistening touch to the cocktail. Overall, the Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned is a delicious and cozy cocktail that is sure to impress your guests during the holiday season.
11. Vanilla Bourbon Fizz
The Vanilla Bourbon Fizz is a delightful holiday cocktail that combines the deep caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon with the lightness of prosecco. The addition of vanilla extract accentuates the natural vanilla flavor in bourbon, while the prosecco adds just the right touch of fizz without diluting the deep warm flavor of bourbon.
It's a great cocktail to serve with small bites like bacon wrapped dates, wild mushroom crostini with goat cheese, candied bacon, or smoky roasted almonds. If you're looking for a sweet treat to go along with this cocktail, vanilla bean cookie bars or ginger sparkles are perfect. The Vanilla Bourbon Fizz is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves bourbon or is looking for a unique and delicious holiday cocktail.
12. Orange Bourbon Smash
The Orange Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and warming cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is a blend of bourbon, Grand Marnier, vermouth, and bitters, with a muddled fresh mandarin that adds a delightful citrusy flavor to the drink. The absence of added sugar makes it a great choice for those who prefer their cocktails less sweet.
The cocktail is garnished with mandarin strands, adding a festive touch to the drink. The Orange Bourbon Smash is a great choice for those who enjoy a strong and sour cocktail with a hint of sweetness. It is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful holiday cocktail.
13. Pecan Bourbon Old Fashioned
Looking for a holiday cocktail that's sure to impress? Look no further than the Pecan Bourbon Old Fashioned. This seasonal twist on the classic cocktail brings together the flavors of pecan pie and bourbon for a drink that's perfect for any holiday gathering.
The addition of brown sugar and pecan liqueur takes this cocktail to the next level, while the choice of bourbon is key to getting the perfect flavor. Whether you're a bourbon aficionado or new to the spirit, this cocktail is sure to become a favorite. So why not add a little warmth and festive cheer to your holiday season with a Pecan Bourbon Old Fashioned?
14. Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail
The Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is a perfect winter drink that is sure to warm you up on a cold night. This cocktail is a blend of bourbon, cherry brandy, and chocolate liqueur, shaken together with ice and topped with a delicate float of cream and grated chocolate.
It's a deeply warming and pleasantly sweet drink that is perfect for sipping by a cozy fire with a fleece blanket. This cocktail is equally well served as an adults-only dessert or a comforting nightcap. If you're looking for a stylish and delicious winter drink, the Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
15. New Year's Eve Honey Bourbon Bubbly Cocktail
The New Year's Eve Honey Bourbon Bubbly Cocktail is a refreshing and unique drink that combines the smoothness of bourbon with the sweetness of honey and bubbles of Prosecco.
It's a simple recipe that's perfect for beginner bartenders or anyone looking to change up their holiday drink. This grown-up version of a college drink is surprisingly delicious and perfect for toasting to new beginnings and a better future.
16. Bourbon Slush
The Bourbon Slush is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season, and it's easy to see why it's a favorite among many. This slushy cocktail is made with a rich and flavorful black tea, orange juice, lemonade, and of course, bourbon. The combination of the fruity flavors and the bourbon creates a perfect balance that's perfect for any occasion.
What's great about this cocktail is that it's easy to make, and it can be made in advance, making it perfect for impromptu parties and get-togethers. The Bourbon Slush is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to enjoy during the holiday season.
17. Bourbon Cranberry Old Fashioned
Looking for a festive and flavorful bourbon cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than the Bourbon Cranberry Old Fashioned. This cocktail offers a unique twist on the classic old fashioned, with the addition of bourbon-soaked cranberries, cinnamon, and orange zest. The result is a perfectly balanced and elegant drink that is sure to impress your guests.
The process of infusing the cranberries with bourbon is simple but requires some advance planning, making it a great make-ahead option for parties. If you're looking for a holiday cocktail that is both delicious and visually stunning, the Bourbon Cranberry Old Fashioned is a must-try.
18. Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail
The Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail is a perfect drink for the holiday season. This cocktail is made with a homemade rosemary syrup, bourbon, lemon juice, and a dash of maple syrup, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The drink is then topped with club soda and served over ice, making it a refreshing and festive drink to enjoy with friends and family.
If you're a fan of bourbon-based cocktails, this one is definitely worth trying. It's a great way to add a little bit of holiday cheer to your evening. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try this holiday season, give the Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail a try!
19. Bourbon and Sage Cocktail
The Bourbon and Sage Cocktail is a refreshing and aromatic drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and sage-infused simple syrup, this cocktail has a dynamic flavor that is sure to impress. The earthy and aromatic flavor of the sage complements the smoothness of the bourbon and the tanginess of the lemon juice, making it a perfect drink for any occasion.
The cocktail is garnished with a sprig of sage, which adds a touch of elegance to the drink. If you are looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to serve at your holiday party, then the Bourbon and Sage Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
20. Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect addition to your holiday drink menu. This cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors that are sure to please any bourbon lover. The combination of cranberry juice, fresh squeezed orange juice, and bourbon creates a unique and refreshing taste that is perfect for the winter season.
The addition of a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary not only adds to the presentation of the drink but also enhances the overall flavor. This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great option for holiday gatherings. The Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a festive and delicious drink to serve during the holiday season.
21. Spiced Pear Bourbon Cocktail
The Spiced Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of juicy pear, warm cinnamon, and a boozy hit of bourbon, with a hint of lemon to bring everything together. This cocktail is a slight twist on the classic cocktails and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a refreshing yet cozy drink during the holiday season.
The cocktail pairs well with a quality bourbon and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and if you're feeling fancy, you can add a cinnamon-sugar rim to it. The recipe calls for a slightly higher-proof bourbon to punch through the flavors. This cocktail is perfect for sipping in front of the fire and is a must-try for those who love bourbon-based drinks.
22. Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail
The Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail is a delicious twist on the classic Moscow Mule, perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail features smooth Bourbon, spicy ginger, refreshing orange, and warm spices, which come together to create a delightful and refreshing drink. The addition of citrus and spice-infused simple syrup gives this cocktail a holiday touch that is sure to impress your guests.
If you're a fan of Bourbon, this cocktail is a must-try for your holiday celebrations. It's easy to make and versatile, making it a great addition to any cocktail list. So, if you're looking for a festive and refreshing Bourbon cocktail, give the Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail a try!
23. Sparkling Bourbon Pear Cocktail
If you're looking for a festive and flavorful bourbon cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering, the Sparkling Bourbon Pear Cocktail is a must-try. This cocktail combines the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of pear juice and the effervescence of sparkling wine.
It's a perfect balance of flavors that will impress your guests and get them in the holiday spirit. The addition of cinnamon simple syrup adds a warm, cozy touch to the drink. Serve it in a rocks or collins glass with a cinnamon stick or pear slice garnish for a beautiful presentation. This cocktail is easy to make and will be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday party.
24. Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail
The Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail is a festive and delicious punch that's perfect for any holiday party. Made with warming bourbon, sweet pomegranate juice, zesty citrus, and bubbly Prosecco, this cocktail is sure to bring happiness to all who indulge. The addition of homemade festive "holiday" ice cubes with fresh cranberries, blood orange slices, and fresh rosemary adds a touch of holiday cheer to the drink.
What's great about this cocktail is that it's not loaded with added sugars like most punch recipes, making it a healthier option. The mix of pomegranate juice and Prosecco keeps the punch perfectly sweet without giving you a sugar rush hangover. Overall, the Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun and festive holiday punch.
25. S'mores Old Fashioned
Looking for a unique and delicious holiday bourbon cocktail? Look no further than the S'mores Old Fashioned. This cocktail is full of smoky, chocolate, and toasted marshmallow flavors that perfectly capture the essence of fall. Made with a marshmallow syrup, crème de cacao or chocolate whiskey, and a touch of smoke, this cocktail is sure to impress.
The addition of Bittermen's Xocolotl Mole bitters adds just the right amount of heat to balance out the sweetness. Serve it over one large rock to avoid over-dilution and enjoy the perfect holiday treat. Get ready to sip on a cocktail that will transport you to a cozy fire pit with the smells of fall all around you.
26. Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail is a tangy and spicy drink made with homemade cranberry sauce, bourbon, and ginger beer. The use of fresh cranberries adds natural sweetness, while the bourbon gives it a warm kick.
The addition of ginger beer adds a fizzy and spicy element that balances out the sweetness. It's a great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce and impress your guests with a unique and flavorful drink.
27. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a classic bourbon-based drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange peel, this sophisticated cocktail is simple yet refined. It's a drink that has stood the test of time and is still just as popular today as it was when it was first created.
The Manhattan Cocktail is the perfect choice for those who enjoy a drink that is not too sweet and has a bit of a kick. It's a drink that is sure to impress your guests and is perfect for sipping by the fire on a cold winter evening. If you're looking for a classic cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Manhattan Cocktail is a great choice.
28. Cherry Bourbon Sour
The Cherry Bourbon Sour is a delightful twist on the classic bourbon sour cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with homemade cherry simple syrup and freshly squeezed orange juice, this cocktail is bursting with fruity flavors that complement the barrel-aged liquor.
The sweetness of the oranges also helps to balance out the bitterness of the bourbon, making it a great option for those who are new to the world of whiskey. This cocktail is easy to prepare in advance and mix to order, making it a great choice for gatherings or for enjoying on a cozy night in. If you're looking for a festive and flavorful bourbon cocktail to add to your holiday drink menu, the Cherry Bourbon Sour is definitely worth a try.
29. Bourbon Sour Cocktail
The Bourbon Sour Cocktail is a classic and refreshing holiday drink that combines the sweet and tart flavors of bourbon, orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. It's a perfect sipper for any gathering, and its golden color and garnish of a cherry and lemon twist make it a beautiful addition to any holiday party.
If you're a fan of bourbon or whiskey sours, this cocktail is a must-try. Its smooth and balanced taste will leave you wanting more. So, gather your friends and family, and impress them with this delightful and easy-to-make cocktail.
30. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed for over a century. It is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that is perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. This cocktail is made with bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice, and is garnished with cherries.
The history of this drink is fascinating, as it is said to have been invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the Manhattan Club in New York City. Since then, it has become a staple in the world of cocktails. If you are a whiskey lover, you will definitely enjoy this cocktail. The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a classic and delicious drink.
