The holiday season is upon us, and there's no better way to celebrate than with a classic cocktail in hand.
Whether you're hosting a festive party or just want to unwind after a long day of holiday shopping, a well-crafted cocktail can be the perfect way to get into the spirit of the season.
From the warm and cozy flavors of a classic hot toddy to the refreshing kick of a gin and tonic, there are countless classic cocktails that are perfect for the holidays.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start.
That's why we've put together a list of some of the best classic holiday cocktail recipes out there. From old favorites to new twists on traditional drinks, there's something for everyone on this list.
So sit back, relax, and let us help you find the perfect cocktail to make your holiday season merry and bright.
1. Cranberry Moscow Mule
The Cranberry Moscow Mule is a festive and refreshing holiday cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with just four simple ingredients, including ginger beer, vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice, this cocktail is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. The drink is served in a chilled golden mug, making it an eye-catching addition to any holiday party.
The combination of tart cranberry juice and spicy ginger beer creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you feeling refreshed and in the holiday spirit. Whether you're looking for a signature cocktail to serve at your next holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a festive drink at home, the Cranberry Moscow Mule is a classic holiday cocktail that is sure to please.
2. Hot Buttered Rum Coffee
Looking for a cozy and comforting holiday cocktail to serve at your next gathering? Look no further than Hot Buttered Rum Coffee. This twist on a classic hot rum cocktail swaps out water for coffee, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor. The spiced butter mixture used in this cocktail is simply irresistible, with warm notes of cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves.
Add in a shot of black rum and you have a perfect drink to warm you up on a cold winter night. Serve with a platter of Christmas cookies for the ultimate holiday indulgence. Don't miss out on this delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
3. Winter Wassail Christmas Cocktail
The Winter Wassail Christmas Cocktail is a classic holiday drink that is perfect for any festive occasion. This traditional cocktail can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for any party. The drink is made with hot mulled cider, which is mixed with a variety of spices and other ingredients to create a delicious and warming beverage.
The recipe for this cocktail is easy to follow and can be adapted to suit your own taste preferences. Whether you are sitting by the fire or serving it at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, the Winter Wassail Christmas Cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests. So why not try this classic holiday drink this season and add some festive cheer to your celebrations?
4. The Holiday Stinger
Looking for a classic holiday cocktail with a twist? Look no further than "The Holiday Stinger." This cocktail takes the traditional Stinger recipe of Cognac and White Creme de Menthe and adds a holiday twist with white creme de cacao and fresh raspberries. The key to this cocktail is using high-quality ingredients, such as Giffard's liqueurs and H by Hine Cognac.
The result is a deliciously smooth and festive drink that is sure to impress your guests. If you're a fan of chocolate martinis, you'll love this holiday-inspired take on a classic cocktail. Give "The Holiday Stinger" a try this holiday season and elevate your cocktail game.
5. Eggnog Holiday Cocktail
The Eggnog Holiday Cocktail is a creamy and frothy drink with a hint of cinnamon. It's made with chilled eggnog, baileys or Irish cream, and vanilla vodka, and can be served over an ice cube or straight up in a chilled glass.
Even if you're not a fan of eggnog, this cocktail is worth a try. It's a classic holiday drink that will get you in the festive spirit.
6. Snowball
The Snowball cocktail is a classic holiday drink that combines the creamy texture of Advocaat liqueur with the refreshing taste of lemonade. This retro cocktail has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite during the winter season. The Advocaat, a Dutch liqueur made with sugar, egg yolks, and brandy, gives the Snowball its rich and velvety texture.
The lemonade adds a fizzy and tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the Advocaat. A dash of fresh lime juice adds a refreshing twist to this festive drink. The Snowball can be garnished with a maraschino cherry, a slice of lime, or even mini meringues. Overall, the Snowball is a delicious and unique cocktail that is perfect for any holiday gathering.
7. Pomegranate Manhattan
The Pomegranate Manhattan is a festive twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, made by adding pomegranate juice to the traditional recipe. The result is a fruity and boozy drink that is perfect for the holiday season.
It's a great choice for bourbon, rye or whiskey drinkers, and can be made less boozy by adding more pomegranate juice. Overall, the Pomegranate Manhattan is a delicious and festive addition to any holiday cocktail menu.
8. Chai Spiced White Russians
The Chai Spiced White Russian is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail recipe. This seasonal version incorporates the warm and cozy flavors of chai spice, which includes cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and pepper. The Hanger 1 Straight Vodka, infused with chai tea bags, provides a smooth and balanced base for the cocktail.
Mixed with coffee-flavored liqueur and half-and-half, this cocktail is perfect for the holidays and the winter season. The garnish of cinnamon sticks and star anise adds a festive touch to the drink. If you're looking for a unique and delicious holiday cocktail, the Chai Spiced White Russian is definitely worth a try.
9. Homemade Eggnog Cocktail
The Homemade Eggnog Cocktail is a classic holiday treat that is thick, rich, and flavorful. This delicious eggnog cocktail includes good quality rum and is perfect for sipping with friends or while curled up in front of a fireplace with cozy socks and a blanket draped over your lap.
Once you’ve tried homemade eggnog, you won’t believe how much better it is than store-bought. It's almost like sipping on an old fashioned egg cream, or a custard milkshake with a good dose of holiday spice.
10. Christmas Old Fashioned
The Christmas Old Fashioned is a festive twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Made with spicy Rye whiskey and sweetened with homemade cranberry syrup, this cocktail is perfect for a cold winter evening. The addition of fresh, sugared cranberries adds a fruity touch and makes it look the part for the holiday season.
While the recipe is only slightly tweaked from the traditional Old Fashioned, the cranberry syrup adds a beautiful sweetness that balances well with the spicy notes of the Rye whiskey. If you're looking for a classic holiday cocktail with a festive twist, the Christmas Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
11. Wassail
Wassail is a classic holiday cocktail that is perfect for warming you up on a chilly winter night. It's a sweet and tangy drink made with a combination of fruit juices and spices, and the secret ingredient is red hots, which add a delicious cinnamon taste and a beautiful pink hue to the drink.
Wassail can be served as a non-alcoholic mocktail or spiked with your favorite liquor for an extra kick.
12. Spiced Hot Toddy
One of the best Classic Holiday Cocktail recipes is the Spiced Hot Toddy. This cocktail is a twist on the classic winter cocktail, Hot Toddy. It is made with whiskey, hot water, lemon, honey, ginger, cinnamon, star anise, and vanilla. The addition of ginger, cinnamon, and star anise adds a rich spiced flavor, while the vanilla and honey sweeten it up.
This cocktail is perfect for chilly months and can be garnished with dried citrus, cinnamon sticks, or fresh herbs like rosemary. The Spiced Hot Toddy is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves a warm and flavorful drink during the holiday season.
13. Cranberry Manhattan
The Cranberry Manhattan is a festive and flavorful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. Made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and cranberry sauce, this cocktail is perfect for the holiday season. The addition of cranberry juice and orange bitters adds a seasonal touch and depth of flavor.
Garnished with fresh cranberries and an orange peel, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just cozying up on the couch, the Cranberry Manhattan is sure to impress.
14. Cranberry Daiquiri
The Cranberry Daiquiri is a tangy and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This classic cocktail has a rich history dating back to the British Navy and Cuba. The sailors were given a pint of rum per day, which led to the creation of the Daiquiri.
The Cranberry Daiquiri is a simple yet delicious cocktail that can be made by the glass or by the pitcher. It is a perfect addition to any holiday party or festive occasion. If you are looking for a refreshing and festive cocktail, the Cranberry Daiquiri is a must-try.
15. Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule
The Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. It is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, with the addition of fresh cranberries and apple slices. The cranberry simple syrup adds a unique flavor to the drink, making it perfect for those who want to try something new.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for holiday parties. The drink is served in a traditional copper mug, which adds to the festive vibe. The Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
16. Amaretto Eggnog Cocktail
The Amaretto Eggnog Cocktail is a perfect holiday drink that combines the rich and creamy flavor of eggnog with the nutty taste of sweet almond-flavored Italian liqueur. This two-ingredient cocktail is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire. The combination of amaretto and eggnog creates a deliciously smooth and indulgent drink that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The cocktail can be served cold or warm, depending on your preference, and can be topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra touch of holiday flavor. If you're looking for a classic holiday cocktail that is both easy to make and delicious to drink, the Amaretto Eggnog Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
17. Amaretto Wine Cocktail
The Amaretto Wine Cocktail is a classic holiday drink that is a delicious blend of red wine and amaretto. It's easy to make and perfect for any festive occasion.
The sweet amaretto and bold red wine create a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more. Give it a try if you're looking for a new holiday drink to add to your repertoire.
18. Winter Aperol Spritz
The Winter Aperol Spritz is a delightful seasonal twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. Infused with the festive flavors of spiced orange and cranberry, this light and refreshing cocktail is perfect for any holiday occasion.
The Aperol, with its slightly bitter orange taste, is complemented by the sweet and tart flavors of the spiced orange and cranberry simple syrup. The cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a wine glass or highball glass. If you're looking for a unique and delicious holiday cocktail, the Winter Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
19. Pomegranate Gin Fizz Cocktail
The Pomegranate Gin Fizz Cocktail is a refreshing take on the classic gin fizz cocktail, perfect for the holiday season. Made with fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice, this cocktail has a beautiful color and a light, fruity flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds. The fizz in this drink comes from berry-flavored sparkling water, making it a lighter version of the classic gin fizz.
The taste of pomegranate is a mix of tart cranberries and sweet cherries, making it a perfect addition to this cocktail. If you're looking for a festive and refreshing cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Pomegranate Gin Fizz Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
20. Classic Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Classic Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a festive and fruity martini that's perfect for any holiday celebration. Its light pink color and the combination of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and fresh lime make it a delightful and refreshing drink. The cranberry juice adds a touch of sweetness, while the lime provides a perfect balance of fruitiness.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a drink with a bit of a boozy bite but don't want it to taste too strong. It's easy to make with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. If you're looking for a classic holiday cocktail that's both delicious and easy to make, the Classic Cosmopolitan Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
21. Homemade Eggnog
Homemade Eggnog is a classic holiday cocktail that is sure to get you in the festive spirit. This creamy and spiced drink is perfect for sipping on a cozy night in with friends and family. With a hint of brandy and rum, this cocktail is the perfect way to toast to life and celebrate prosperity and health.
Although it uses eggs, the custard-like texture and blend of spices and alcohol make it a deliciously creamy and smooth drink that is perfect for the holidays. Whether you're enjoying it as a classic eggnog or as a fun variation like eggnog chia pudding, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little extra fun to their holiday get-togethers.
22. Snowball Cocktail
The Snowball Cocktail is a must-try classic winter drink that combines the creamy texture of eggy Advocaat with the fizzy and refreshing taste of lemonade. This cocktail is perfect for anyone who loves eggnog but wants to try something new and exciting.
The addition of brandy and lime gives the Snowball Cocktail a unique flavor that is sure to impress your guests during the holiday season. So, if you're looking for a festive drink that will warm you up and put you in the holiday spirit, the Snowball Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
23. Homemade Bourbon Eggnog
Looking for a classic holiday cocktail that will warm you up from the inside out? Look no further than the Homemade Bourbon Eggnog. This creamy, light and airy eggnog packs a punch with the addition of good quality bourbon, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract. The flavor of the bourbon really shines through in this cocktail, so make sure to choose a high-quality bourbon that you enjoy drinking.
This cocktail is perfect for sipping on while admiring holiday lights and snow, or for serving to a crowd at your next holiday party. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until serving, and use caution when consuming raw eggs. So why not try your hand at making this classic holiday cocktail and impress your guests with your bartending skills?
24. Scarlet O'Hara Cocktail
The Scarlet O'Hara Cocktail is a classic holiday drink that blends sweet nostalgia with holiday cheer. With just three easy-to-find ingredients, it's perfect for entertaining guests during the holiday season.
It can also be adapted to a mocktail for those who prefer not to drink alcohol. Give it a try and see why it's been a holiday favorite for generations.
25. Cosmo
The Cosmo is a classic holiday cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is a perfect mix of sweet, sour, and tart flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any party. The ingredients, including vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice, are perfectly balanced to create a delicious and refreshing drink.
This recipe is easy to make for one or for a crowd, making it a great choice for any holiday gathering. Whether you are hosting a party or just want to enjoy a festive drink at home, the Cosmo is a must-try cocktail. So, shake up a few of these delicious drinks and get ready to impress your guests with your bartending skills!
26. Rosemary Gimlet
The Rosemary Gimlet is a classic holiday cocktail that is perfect for winter celebrations. This cocktail is a variation of the traditional Gimlet and uses rosemary simple syrup to add a fresh, herbal flavor to the gin-based drink. The rosemary garnish gives the cocktail a festive touch, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties.
The recipe is easy to follow, and the ingredients are readily available, making it a great option for home bartenders. The Rosemary Gimlet is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking to add a little extra holiday spirit to their celebrations.
27. White Russian
The White Russian is a classic holiday cocktail that's easy to make with only three ingredients. This vegan version is dairy-free and equally rich and creamy. The combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and coconut cream creates a smooth and indulgent drink that's perfect for sipping by the fire on Christmas Eve.
If you're looking to mix things up, there are also plenty of variations to try. Overall, the White Russian is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking to add a touch of classic holiday cheer to their festivities.
28. Tom and Jerry Drink
If you're looking for a classic holiday cocktail that will transport you back in time, look no further than the Tom and Jerry drink. This warm and creamy concoction was once a staple of Christmas gatherings, and it's making a comeback thanks to the recent interest in retro cocktails.
Made with raw eggs and served warm, this drink is similar to eggnog but with a lighter consistency. It's typically mixed one by one as needed, making it a fun and festive addition to any holiday party. While the origins of the drink are debated, one thing is for sure: it's a delicious and nostalgic way to toast the season.
29. Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for almost a century. Its origins are somewhat disputed, with some believing it was invented in France and others in London. Regardless of its birthplace, the Sidecar has remained a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts.
This three-ingredient cocktail is made up of cognac, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice, with the ratio of ingredients varying depending on who you ask. The result is a deliciously balanced cocktail with a citrusy kick and a warming finish. If you're looking for a classic holiday cocktail that is easy to make and sure to impress, the Sidecar is definitely worth a try.
30. Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a classic holiday cocktail that is both creamy and indulgent. Made with dark creme de cacao, brandy, and heavy cream, it's a perfect balance of flavors that has been enjoyed for over a century.
This simple recipe requires only three ingredients and is typically served in a coupe or martini glass, garnished with ground nutmeg. If you're looking for a sweet and boozy dessert cocktail, the Brandy Alexander is a must-try.
31. New York Sour
The New York Sour is a classic holiday cocktail with a fruity twist. It combines red wine with whiskey to create a deep and layered flavor. The cocktail has a rich history, having first appeared in Chicago in the late 1800s. The addition of wine makes it a unique and refreshing drink, perfect for those who want to try something new.
Whether you prefer scotch, whiskey, bourbon, or rye whiskey, the New York Sour can be made with any of these spirits, giving it a slightly different taste each time. Overall, it's a must-try cocktail that is sure to impress your guests with its stunning appearance and delicious flavor.
32. Tom and Jerry
If you're looking for a classic holiday cocktail that's sure to impress your guests, look no further than the Tom and Jerry. This festive drink has been a holiday staple for generations, and for good reason. With its warm, creamy texture and spicy flavor, it's the perfect way to cozy up on a cold winter night.
While the recipe can vary, the basic ingredients include eggs, sugar, milk, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Some versions also include alcohol, such as brandy or rum. Whether you're sipping it by the fire or serving it at a holiday party, the Tom and Jerry is a delicious and timeless cocktail that's sure to delight.
