The holiday season is upon us, and there's nothing quite like sipping on a warm drink while the snow falls outside.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply curling up by the fire, a warm Christmas cocktail can add a touch of cheer to your evening. From spicy to sweet, there are countless recipes to choose from, each with its own unique flavor profile.
The best warm Christmas cocktails are more than just a drink – they're an experience. Picture yourself holding a steaming mug of spiced cider, the scent of cinnamon and cloves filling the air.
Or perhaps you prefer the rich, velvety texture of a hot chocolate spiked with peppermint schnapps. Whatever your preference, there's a warm Christmas cocktail out there to suit your taste.
But what makes a great warm Christmas cocktail? For starters, the recipe should be easy to make, with ingredients that are readily available. It should also be versatile enough to serve to guests with different tastes.
And of course, it should be delicious – a warm Christmas cocktail should be a treat for the senses, with flavors that evoke the holiday season.
In this blog post, we'll be exploring some of the best warm Christmas cocktail recipes out there.
From classic mulled wine to inventive twists on hot toddies, we'll be sharing recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. So grab a blanket, turn on some holiday tunes, and let's get mixing!
1. Butterscotch Toddy Cocktail
The Butterscotch Toddy Cocktail is a warm and cozy drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with Winter Jack, Buttershots, honey, and a squeeze of lemon juice, this cocktail is sweet, but not overpowering. The lemon juice adds a nice tangy twist to the drink, making it a perfect balance of sweet and sour.
The warm and comforting flavors of this cocktail make it a great choice for sipping by the fire on a cold winter day. So, if you're looking for a delicious and festive warm cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Butterscotch Toddy Cocktail is definitely worth a try!
2. Christmas Old Fashioned
The Christmas Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. It is a warm and cozy drink that is perfect for cold nights by the fire. This cocktail is a combination of all the favorite flavors of the bartender's brother, including bourbon, cardamom, cinnamon, and maple syrup.
The drink is mixed with fresh-squeezed lemon and orange juice, and topped off with ginger beer. The sweet rim and sugared cranberries make it extra fancy, but it's just as delicious without them. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon and wants to add a festive twist to their Old Fashioned.
3. Eggnog Cocktail
The Eggnog Cocktail is a festive and creamy drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with brandy and amaretto, this cocktail is sure to warm you up on a cold winter night.
The sugared rim adds a touch of sweetness to the drink, while the cinnamon on top provides a warm and cozy aroma. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy night in, the Eggnog Cocktail is a must-try.
4. Spicy Sweet Grinch Cocktail
The Spicy Sweet Grinch Cocktail is a festive and warming drink that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas. Made with vodka, fresh lime juice, grapefruit juice, jalapeños, and ginger beer, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The minted sugar-rimmed glass adds a festive touch to the drink, making it a perfect choice for holiday parties.
The addition of pomegranate arils adds a pop of color to the drink, making it visually appealing as well. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served as a punch for larger gatherings. Overall, the Spicy Sweet Grinch Cocktail is a fun and delicious drink that is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
5. Chai Spice Cocktail
The Chai Spice Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their holiday season. This warm and flavourful cocktail is a perfect blend of chai tea, dark rum, and maple liqueur, making it a unique and delicious treat. Served with cinnamon sticks, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering.
Whether you're a fan of chai tea lattes or not, this cocktail is a great way to warm up from the inside out and get into the holiday spirit. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting holiday drink to try, be sure to add the Chai Spice Cocktail to your list!
6. Santa's Nightcap
"Santa's Nightcap" is a delicious and warming Christmas cocktail perfect for sipping by the fire or while watching a holiday movie. This naughty chai tea is spiked with a generous amount of bourbon, cinnamon, and ginger, making it the perfect nightcap for Santa after his busy night.
The recipe also includes milk and honey, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the bold flavors. The cocktail can be served warm or over ice, making it versatile for any preference. This cocktail is a must-try for bourbon lovers and those looking for a unique twist on a classic chai tea.
7. Christmas Vodka
Looking for a warming and festive cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than Christmas Vodka! This homemade infusion captures all the flavors of a sweet Christmas pudding in a glass, making it the perfect nightcap by the fire.
Infused with orange zest, cinnamon, dried fruit, and of course, vodka, this liqueur is ready in just a few days and makes a great homemade gift for the vodka lover in your life. Serve it on its own or use it in holiday cocktails for a cozy and delicious twist. Trust us, you won't want to miss out on this festive and flavorful cocktail.
8. A Winter Snowflake
Looking for a perfect warm Christmas cocktail to keep you cozy during the holiday season? Look no further than "A Winter Snowflake"! This soothingly sweet and deliciously creamy cocktail is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. With a base of Baileys Irish Cream and hot chocolate, this cocktail is topped with light-as-air whipped cream and beautifully-smelling ground cinnamon.
It's the perfect way to indulge in a decadent dessert without the guilt, coming in at around 200 calories per serving. And if you're hosting a Christmas party, you can easily make a big batch of this cocktail to keep your guests warm and happy. So go ahead, treat yourself to "A Winter Snowflake" this holiday season!
9. Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. It is a cozy and warming drink that combines homemade spiced chai simple syrup, bourbon, winter citrus, vanilla, and sparkling water. The flavors are well-balanced, and it's not too sweet or heavy on the bourbon.
The chai syrup is the heart of the cocktail, and it's where most of the flavor comes from. This cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving or any other holiday gathering. It's easy to make, and you can keep the syrup in the fridge for a quick drink anytime. The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone who loves chai and bourbon.
10. Wassail
Wassail is a classic English mulled drink that is perfect for the holiday season. It's a sweet and tangy drink made with a combination of fruit juices and spices that are simmered together to create a warm and comforting drink. This recipe can be served as a non-alcoholic mocktail or spiked with liquor for an extra kick.
The secret ingredient that gives it a delicious cinnamon taste and a beautiful pink hue is Red Hots candies. Wassail is a perfect big batch drink for Christmas Eve or can be made in a slow cooker for convenience. If you're looking for a warm and cozy drink to enjoy during the holiday season, Wassail is a must-try!
11. Mulled Wine
Mulled Wine is a classic holiday cocktail that has been enjoyed throughout Europe for centuries. It's made by heating red wine with a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, and sweetening it with sugar or honey. The result is a rich and aromatic beverage that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter's night.
The combination of flavors and aromas creates a unique taste experience that is both warm and comforting. If you're looking for a festive and easy-to-make drink to serve at your holiday gathering, Mulled Wine is definitely worth considering.
12. Cranberry Cider
If you're looking for a festive and easy-to-make warm Christmas cocktail, you must try the Cranberry Cider. With only two ingredients, this drink is a great alternative to traditional warm apple cider. The combination of cranberry lemon lime soda and pure cranberry juice creates a delicious and refreshing taste that is perfect for the holiday season.
You can serve it warm or chilled depending on your preference, making it a versatile option for any Christmas party. The Cranberry Cider is a great addition to any holiday cocktail menu and is sure to impress your guests.
13. Rumchata Hot Cocoa Cocktail
The Rumchata Hot Cocoa Cocktail is a delicious and cozy winter drink that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is a twist on classic hot cocoa, with a warm cinnamon vanilla flavor and a boozy kick from the addition of RumChata. RumChata is a cream-based liquor that is bursting with cinnamon and vanilla, making it the perfect addition to this hot cocoa cocktail.
This easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for a cozy night in or a Christmas party, and can be made in just 10 minutes. If you're a fan of hot cocoa, you'll definitely want to give this recipe a try. The Rumchata Hot Cocoa Cocktail is a delicious and comforting drink that is sure to become a new holiday favorite.
14. Pine Old Fashioned
The Pine Old Fashioned is a perfect winter cocktail that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. This twist on a classic Old Fashioned includes a subtle pine flavor from the pine simple syrup, which complements the sweet caramel notes of the bourbon.
The addition of Angostura Bitters brings warm baking spices to the cocktail, making it a great sipping drink to enjoy next to a cozy fireplace on a snowy night. If you're looking for a unique and festive cocktail to try this holiday season, the Pine Old Fashioned is definitely worth a taste.
15. Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum is a classic holiday cocktail made with spiced rum, warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, and a seasoned butter mixture that gives it a toasty caramel flavor.
It's creamy, comforting, and perfect for warming you up on a chilly evening during the holiday season. The combination of warm spices and rum creates a delicious and comforting flavor that is perfect for the holiday season.
16. Drunken Snowman
Looking for a delicious and festive cocktail to serve at your next holiday party? Look no further than the Drunken Snowman! This tasty drink combines hot chocolate, ice cream, Baileys, and two types of chocolate for a rich and indulgent treat that's perfect for sipping by the fire.
And if you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, simply leave out the Baileys for a family-friendly version. So why not add a little extra cheer to your holiday season with a Drunken Snowman?
17. Tequila Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate
If you're looking for a warm and cozy cocktail to enjoy during the holidays, look no further than the Tequila Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate. This delicious drink is perfect for those who love a little bit of spice in their hot cocoa, with a touch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper adding a kick to the creamy chocolate base.
And of course, the addition of tequila takes this cocktail to the next level, making it perfect for festive celebrations or just a cozy night in by the fire. Whether you're a tequila lover or just looking for a unique twist on a classic hot cocoa, the Tequila Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
18. Hot Buttered Bourbon
If you're looking for a warm and cozy Christmas cocktail, look no further than Hot Buttered Bourbon. This rich and indulgent drink is perfect for sipping by the fire on a cold winter night. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and spices creates a decadent base for the bourbon, which adds a warming kick to the mix.
Whether you choose to top it with whipped cream or enjoy it as is, this cocktail is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little indulgence during the holiday season. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
19. Kinderpunsch
Looking for a warm and delicious holiday drink that's a little different from the usual hot chocolate or apple cider? Look no further than Kinderpunsch! This European-inspired hot beverage is made with apple cider, cherry juice, orange juice, and warm winter spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
The surprise ingredient that sets this drink apart is the herbal hibiscus tea, which adds a unique and delightful flavor. Kinderpunsch is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night, and it's a great option for non-alcoholic drinkers who still want to enjoy a festive holiday beverage. Give it a try and see for yourself why this drink is a favorite at Christmas markets across Europe!
20. Spiced Mulled Wine
Spiced Mulled Wine is a traditional holiday drink that is perfect for warming you up during the colder months. This cocktail is made with red wine, brandy, and mulling spices like cloves, star anise, and cinnamon. It's a cozy and delicious drink that is guaranteed to make you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
This cocktail is popular in many countries, including Germany, where it is known as Gluhwein, and in Sweden, where it is called Gløgg. The addition of liquor like brandy, vodka, or rum makes it even more potent and perfect for the holiday season. If you're looking for a warm and comforting drink to enjoy during the holidays, Spiced Mulled Wine is definitely worth a try.
21. Almond Spiced White Russian
The Almond Spiced White Russian is a unique and delicious twist on the classic White Russian cocktail. This dairy-free version uses almond milk infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, giving it a cozy and festive feel perfect for the holiday season.
The addition of a cinnamon sugar rim adds a fun and festive touch, making it a great choice for holiday parties or cozy nights in. If you're looking for a warm and comforting cocktail that's a little bit different, the Almond Spiced White Russian is definitely worth trying.
22. Tom and Jerry Christmas Cocktail
The Tom and Jerry Christmas Cocktail is a warm and cozy drink that is perfect for the holiday season. This old-fashioned recipe is made with homemade batter, rum, and brandy, and is a family tradition for many. The batter is made with powdered sugar and eggs, giving the drink a sweet and creamy flavor.
This cocktail is like a cross between eggnog and a Hot Toddy, making it the perfect drink to enjoy on a cold winter night. The Tom and Jerry is a classic cocktail that is not widely known, but once you try it, you'll be hooked. If you're looking for a warm and festive drink to serve at your holiday party, the Tom and Jerry Christmas Cocktail is a must-try.
23. Spicy Pomegranate Moscow Mule
The Spicy Pomegranate Moscow Mule is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. This upgraded version of the classic Moscow Mule is a combination of vodka, lime juice, grapefruit juice, pomegranate juice, and spicy jalapeños, topped off with ginger beer.
The double citrus action and the heat from the jalapeños make this cocktail a unique and flavorful experience. The recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit individual preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser at holiday parties. The Spicy Pomegranate Moscow Mule is a must-try for anyone looking to add some warmth and spice to their holiday celebrations.
24. Swedish Glögg
Swedish Glögg is a traditional warm wine beverage that's perfect for the festive season. This Scandinavian take on mulled wine is spicy, warming, and definitely strong. It's a social drink that's best enjoyed with friends and family. The recipe has slight variations across countries, but the Swedish version is the most popular.
The cocktail is made with wine, port, spices, and slivered almonds, which give it a unique flavor. It's a great make-ahead recipe and can be served in different glasses, depending on your preference. Glögg is a fabulous batch party drink that's perfect for any winter gathering. If you're looking for a warm Christmas cocktail that's both festive and delicious, Swedish Glögg is the perfect choice.
25. Mountain Pine Gin and Tonic
The Mountain Pine Gin and Tonic is a unique and refreshing cocktail that features the unexpected flavor of pine syrup, which adds a subtle and nuanced green flavor to the classic gin and tonic.
The use of Hendrick's Gin, with its floral and cucumber notes, balances the evergreen flavor and creates a refreshing blend of citrus, floral, and alpine notes. The addition of frozen pine clippings as a garnish adds a pop of color and elevates the presentation of the cocktail. It's a versatile and delicious option that is sure to impress your guests.
26. Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash
The Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash is a perfect warm Christmas cocktail for those who want to indulge in the flavors of fall. This cocktail features the smooth and easy-to-drink WhistlePig 10 Year Straight Rye Whiskey, which brings in flavors of vanilla and caramel with a touch of mint on the finish.
The cocktail is then mixed with fresh sweet apple, tart lemon juice, fragrant fresh mint, and spicy warm cinnamon simple syrup to create a fruity, sweet, and pleasantly strong cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those chilly fall nights and holiday gatherings. So, if you're looking for a warm and cozy drink to enjoy with your loved ones this holiday season, the Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash is definitely worth a try.
27. Italian Eggnog White Russian
The Italian Eggnog White Russian is a warm and cozy Christmas cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. This classic cocktail gets a festive twist with Torani Italian Eggnog Syrup and whipped coffee. The syrup adds a rich and creamy flavor to the drink, while the whipped coffee adds a frothy and indulgent touch.
The cocktail can be made with or without vodka, making it a versatile option for any party. The recipe also suggests dipping the rims of the glasses in Torani syrup and sugar crystals for an extra festive touch. Overall, the Italian Eggnog White Russian is a delicious and unique take on a classic cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season.
28. Vin Chaud
Vin Chaud is a classic French mulled wine that is perfect for the holiday season. It's made by heating red wine with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, anise, cloves, ginger, and citrus. The result is a deliciously spiced and fragrant drink that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
The warm spices add depth and complexity to the wine, while the citrus adds a bright, refreshing note that balances out the richness of the drink. If you're looking for a festive and warming cocktail to enjoy this holiday season, Vin Chaud is definitely worth trying.
