The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the time to indulge in all things festive. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or looking to unwind after a long day of shopping, nothing beats a good cocktail.
And when it comes to the holidays, it's all about the classics. But why settle for the same old eggnog or mulled wine when you can shake things up with a classy Christmas cocktail?
There's something about a well-crafted cocktail that just screams sophistication. From the way the ingredients are measured out to the way they're mixed together, it's clear that making a cocktail is an art form.
And when it comes to Christmas cocktails, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer something sweet and creamy or something with a bit of a kick, there's a Christmas cocktail out there that's perfect for you.
But what makes a Christmas cocktail truly classy? Is it the ingredients? The presentation? The history behind the drink? The answer is all of the above. A classy Christmas cocktail is more than just a drink – it's an experience.
From the first sip to the last, a good Christmas cocktail should transport you to a winter wonderland of taste and aroma. And that's exactly what we're going to explore in this blog post – the best classy Christmas cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday season.
1. Merry Manhattan
The Merry Manhattan is a perfect cocktail for those who love a classic Manhattan with a festive twist. This cocktail is made with bourbon, dry vermouth, and a few drops of bitters, but what makes it unique is the ginger-cinnamon-cardamom infused syrup. The syrup is easy to make and adds a deliciously spicy flavor to the drink.
The sugared cranberry swizzle sticks make the cocktail look beautiful and add a touch of sweetness to each sip. This cocktail is perfect for Christmas parties or cozy nights in by the fire. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a good Manhattan with a holiday twist.
2. Spicy Sweet Holiday Storm Cocktail
The Spicy Sweet Holiday Storm Cocktail is a festive and fun drink that combines sweet and spicy flavors to create the perfect holiday storm. Made with cranberry juice, vodka, St. Germain, lemon juice, bitters, spicy-sweet jalapeño honey, and topped off with ginger beer, this cocktail is a touch of sweet and a little bit of spice.
The drink is garnished with sweet mint sugar to create a Christmas cocktail that sparkles. The cocktail is perfect for cold winter nights and is sure to be a hit at any holiday party. The recipe also includes a mocktail variation for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks. Overall, the Spicy Sweet Holiday Storm Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little spice to their holiday celebrations.
3. Christmas Mimosa
If you're looking for a festive and easy-to-make cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Christmas Mimosa is an excellent choice. This cocktail combines the classic mimosa with some seasonal twists, resulting in a fruity and sparkling drink that's perfect for celebrating the holidays.
The addition of fresh cranberries and pomegranate seeds gives the drink a festive touch, while the rosemary garnish adds a touch of elegance. Whether you serve it in champagne flutes or vintage glasses, the Christmas Mimosa is sure to impress your guests and get them in the holiday spirit.
4. Poinsettia Spritz Punch
The Poinsettia Spritz Punch is a fizzy cranberry cocktail with a hit of St. Germain and sweet champagne. It's perfect for the holiday season and has a festive red hue. This cocktail is simple to make and can be served in a pitcher, making it perfect for parties.
The addition of fresh cranberries adds a festive touch to this classy Christmas cocktail. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Poinsettia Spritz Punch is definitely worth a try.
5. White Christmas Cocktail
The White Christmas Cocktail is a perfect addition to your holiday party. This frozen cocktail is garnished with fresh cranberries and rosemary, giving it a festive and Christmasy look and smell. The creamy mint taste is complemented by the fresh woodsy scent of rosemary.
While the cranberries are just for looks, they add a tart flavor that can be enjoyed after finishing the drink. This cocktail is sure to bring joy and merriment to even the grumpiest of spirits during the holiday season.
6. Very Merry Ornamentini
The Very Merry Ornamentini is a unique and festive Christmas cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Served in a clear glass ornament, this cocktail is a variation on the classic cosmopolitan with a twist. The addition of cherry juice and orange juice gives it a beautiful deep red color and a seasonal flavor that is perfect for the holidays.
The cocktail is garnished with sugared cranberries and fresh rosemary, making it Christmas AF. While it may take a little longer to prepare, it can be made in advance and served to up to 10 people. If you're looking for a fun and elegant way to serve cocktails this holiday season, the Very Merry Ornamentini is a must-try.
7. Wine Spritzer
The Wine Spritzer is a light and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This classy cocktail is easy to make and can be served at any holiday gathering. It is a perfect blend of wine and soda, which makes it a great option for those who prefer a lighter drink.
The ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this cocktail a great choice for those who want to impress their guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. The Wine Spritzer is a great addition to any holiday party and is sure to be a hit with all of your guests. So, if you're looking for a classy and easy-to-make cocktail for your holiday gathering, the Wine Spritzer is definitely worth a try!
8. Apple Pear Prosecco Cocktail
The Apple Pear Prosecco Cocktail is a delightful and easy-to-drink cocktail that is perfect for any holiday gathering. This cocktail is a combination of apple cider, pear nectar, and sparkling wine that creates a sweet and refreshing taste. It is a great addition to any brunch, lunch, or dinner and is perfect for those who only drink during the holidays.
The cocktail is a half and half mixture of juice and wine, making it easy to drink and enjoy. It is a sparkling sangria that will have guests requesting the recipe. If you're looking for a signature drink for your holiday party, the Apple Pear Prosecco Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
9. The Christmas Martini
If you're looking for a stunning holiday drink that's easy to mix up and beautifully festive, "The Christmas Martini" is the perfect fit for entertaining. This flavored vodka martini made with unsweetened cranberry juice and Cointreau is sweet, tart, and drinkable. The color is brilliantly red and perfect for winter and fall occasions.
It's a great option for those who want to try something new and different from the classic Poinsettia. If you're looking for more holiday cocktails, there are plenty of other tasty vodka martinis to try, such as pomegranate, cucumber, and ginger. Overall, "The Christmas Martini" is a must-try for anyone who wants to add a touch of class to their holiday celebrations.
10. Christmas Sangria
Looking for a festive and classy cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering? Look no further than Christmas Sangria! This delightful drink is a perfect balance of crisp and fruity, with a touch of sweetness that will have your guests coming back for more.
The addition of fresh cranberries and rosemary give it a true taste of the holidays, making it the perfect addition to any Christmas celebration. Plus, with the ability to make it ahead of time, you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones and less time playing bartender. Don't miss out on this delicious and easy-to-make holiday cocktail!
11. Sugar Plum Fairy Martini
The Sugar Plum Fairy Martini is a festive and classy Christmas cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. With a beautiful hue and a combination of tart cranberry juice, rich Amaretto, and a touch of spice, this Nutcracker-themed martini is perfect for any holiday gathering.
The addition of fresh lemon juice adds a brightness to the drink that complements the rich flavors of the Amaretto perfectly. Topped with a splash of ginger ale, this cocktail is easy to make and can be adjusted to serve a crowd. If you're looking for a quick and simple holiday cocktail that's sure to impress, the Sugar Plum Fairy Martini is a must-try.
12. Christmas Cranberry Cosmopolitan
The Christmas Cranberry Cosmopolitan is a perfect addition to any holiday party. This cocktail is made with a rich cranberry simple syrup and Tangueray gin, which gives it an earthy pine-needle flavor. The deep red color of the drink is absolutely stunning and will definitely get you in the holiday spirit.
The lime zest adds a nice zing to the drink, balancing out the sweetness of the cranberry syrup. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a festive drink that is both classy and delicious. If you're looking for a drink that will impress your guests, the Christmas Cranberry Cosmopolitan is definitely worth a try.
13. Blueberry Bubbly Sparkler Champagne Cocktail
The Blueberry Bubbly Sparkler Champagne Cocktail is a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. This elegant cocktail combines blueberry juice, St. Germain, and champagne to create a fruity and bubbly drink that is perfect for toasting to the new year. The fresh blueberries and thyme garnish add a touch of sophistication to this already chic cocktail.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a champagne flute, making it perfect for a festive brunch or a glamorous New Year's Eve party. If you're looking for a classy and delicious cocktail to impress your guests this holiday season, the Blueberry Bubbly Sparkler Champagne Cocktail is a must-try.
14. Ginger Cranberry Gin Fizz
The Ginger Cranberry Gin Fizz is a sweet and fizzy holiday cocktail that blends ginger, cranberry, and gin together perfectly. The flavors are sweet with a little zing, and the fizzy texture adds a playful element to the drink.
Even if you're not a gin fan, this cocktail is worth a try. It's a classy and festive choice that is sure to impress at any holiday gathering.
15. Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail
The Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail is a perfect addition to any Christmas party or gathering. This cocktail is a combination of warming bourbon, sweet pomegranate juice, zesty citrus, and bubbly Prosecco. The drink is served over homemade festive “holiday” ice cubes that add a touch of elegance to the cocktail.
The Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail is 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. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a festive drink without the sugar rush hangover. The Holiday Cheermeister Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail during the holiday season.
16. Year Round Jack Frost Cocktail
The Year Round Jack Frost Cocktail is a delicious and refreshing drink that can be enjoyed all year round. This cocktail is made with coconut rum, blue curacao, cream of coconut, and pineapple juice, and is garnished with shredded coconut and simple syrup.
The blue color of the drink makes it a perfect addition to any holiday party, but its taste and appearance make it a great choice for any time of the year. The creamy texture and tropical flavors of the Year Round Jack Frost Cocktail make it a must-try for anyone looking for a classy and delicious cocktail.
17. Red Winter Sangria
The Red Winter Sangria is a refreshing and festive cocktail perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is full of seasonal fruits like apples, oranges, and cranberries that soak up the flavors of the affordable dry red wine, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. The garnishes of this cocktail are also festive and add a pop of color to the drink.
The recipe is easy to adjust according to your preference and can be served in a punch bowl or pitcher with heaps of ice and your favorite appetizers. The Red Winter Sangria is a must-try for anyone looking for a classy Christmas cocktail to impress their guests.
18. Snowball
Snowball is a retro Christmas cocktail that has made a comeback in recent years. It is a simple yet delicious drink made with Advocaat, lime juice, and fizzy lemonade. Advocaat is a Dutch/Belgian liqueur made from egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and brandy, which gives the drink a rich, creamy, and smooth taste.
The cocktail is easy to make and perfect for a winter warmer. You can also make a fancier version of Snowball by replacing lemonade with chilled Champagne, cava, or Prosecco. The drink is usually served in a highball glass filled with ice and garnished with a strip of lime peel. Snowball is a perfect cocktail for those who want to enjoy a classic drink with a festive twist.
19. Chai Spiced White Russians
Looking for a holiday cocktail that's both classic and seasonal? Look no further than the Chai Spiced White Russian. This twist on the traditional White Russian incorporates the warm and spicy flavors of chai, making it the perfect cocktail for cold winter nights.
Infused with Hanger 1 Straight Vodka and garnished with cinnamon sticks and star anise, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and add some festive flair to your holiday gatherings. Whether you're a fan of White Russians or just looking for a new holiday cocktail to try, the Chai Spiced White Russian is a must-try this season.
20. Poinsettia Cocktail
The Poinsettia Cocktail is a festive and classy Christmas cocktail that is perfect for any holiday party. Made with champagne and cranberry juice, this cocktail has a tart and refreshing flavor that is sure to please. What sets the Poinsettia apart from other cranberry cocktails is the addition of Grand Marnier, which adds a subtle orange flavor and a touch of elegance.
The garnish of rosemary and cranberries adds a beautiful and festive touch to the cocktail. If you're looking for a simple yet sophisticated cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering, the Poinsettia Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
21. Spicy Pear Martini
The Spicy Pear Martini is a delicious cocktail infused with the flavors of the season, including spices and pears. The vodka used in this cocktail is infused with the spices and fruit, giving it a beautiful brown color.
The pear flavor adds a touch of sweetness, while the spices give it a little bit of a kick. It's perfect for those who love a little bit of spice in their drinks.
22. Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
Looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to enjoy during the winter season? Look no further than the Slow Cooker Mulled Wine. This classic winter drink is made by slowly heating red wine with a collection of mulling spices and apple cider, resulting in a comforting and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
The spices add a depth of flavor to the wine, while the apple cider adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle fruitiness. Served with a cinnamon stick, this Classy Christmas Cocktail is sure to impress your guests and keep you warm all winter long.
23. Pomegranate Gin Fizz
The Pomegranate Gin Fizz is a must-try cocktail for any classy Christmas party. This refreshing drink is perfect for winter gatherings and is sure to impress your guests. The cocktail is made with pomegranate juice, gin, club soda, and garnished with a sprig of rosemary.
The combination of flavors creates a unique and delicious taste that is perfect for the holiday season. Whether you're a gin lover or not, this cocktail is definitely worth a try. So, if you're looking for a classy and festive drink to serve at your Christmas party, the Pomegranate Gin Fizz is the perfect choice.
24. Cranberry 75
The Cranberry 75 is a delightful twist on the classic French 75 cocktail, infused with the bright and festive flavours of cranberry. This cocktail is perfect for any holiday gathering, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your celebrations. The combination of gin, sparkling wine, and cranberry simple syrup creates a refreshing and crisp drink that is sure to impress your guests.
The Cranberry 75 is an easy-to-make cocktail that requires no shaking or fuss, making it a perfect choice for busy hosts. Its beautiful Christmas hues and flavours make it an ideal drink for any festive occasion. So, if you're looking for a classy and delicious cocktail to serve this holiday season, the Cranberry 75 is definitely worth trying.
25. Sugar Plum Whiskey Smash
Looking for a classy and festive cocktail to serve at your Christmas party? Look no further than the Sugar Plum Whiskey Smash! Inspired by the Sugar Plum Fairy herself, this cocktail features freshly caramelized plums in a cranberry-pomegranate whiskey smash.
The smooth and well-rounded sweetness of the drink is perfectly complemented by the addition of high-quality whiskey or bourbon. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor and festive presentation. Don't miss out on this fun holiday twist on a classic summer cocktail!
26. Champagne Cocktail
The Champagne Cocktail is a timeless classic that is perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. This cocktail is a combination of lightly sweetened Champagne, bitters, and Cognac, which creates a sophisticated and elegant taste.
What makes this cocktail unique is the variations that can be added to it, making it a versatile drink that everyone can enjoy. Whether you prefer a fruity twist or a spicy kick, this cocktail has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a classy and festive drink to serve at your Christmas party, the Champagne Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
27. Pomegranate Mint Cocktail
The Pomegranate Mint Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make mocktail that is perfect for Christmas day. Made with pomegranate juice, tonic water, and fresh mint leaves, this mocktail is a great alternative to hot beverages.
While the sour taste of pomegranate juice and tonic water may be too bitter for some, the addition of fresh mint leaves adds a touch of sweetness and balances out the flavors. This cocktail can also be made with alcohol such as white or red wine, gin, tequila, or vodka. Overall, the Pomegranate Mint Cocktail is a delicious and classy option for those who want a refreshing drink during the holidays.
28. Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Sangria
Looking for a warm and flavorful cocktail to serve at your Christmas party? Look no further than the Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Sangria. This red wine-based sangria is infused with cranberry juice, brandy, and seasonal spices like cinnamon and whole peppercorns.
The addition of fresh cranberries and orange slices gives it a festive touch. This cocktail is perfect for serving a crowd, as it can be made in a slow cooker and kept warm throughout the evening. Your guests will love sipping on this cozy and flavorful drink as they mingle and celebrate the holiday season.
29. Pornstar Martini
The Pornstar Martini is a modern classic cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet and sour. It has a frothy top and a floating half a passion fruit that adds a visually exciting element to the drink. The cocktail is made with Passoa, a passion fruit liqueur, vodka, vanilla syrup, fresh lime, passion fruit puree, and passion fruit juice.
It's named after its creator's belief that it's a stylish and confident drink. The Pornstar Martini is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and visually stunning cocktail that's sure to impress.
30. The Golden Snitch Cocktail
"The Golden Snitch Cocktail" is a Harry Potter inspired cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. It's a mix of sweet apple cider, whiskey, St. Germain, lemon, maple, and spices, resulting in a deep golden color that is both moody and bubbly. The drink is garnished with a cocktail cherry wrapped in edible gold leaf, giving it the appearance of the Golden Snitch.
It's a delicious cocktail with a kick from the whiskey, spice from the ginger, and warmth from the cider and cinnamon. If you're looking for a classy Christmas cocktail that is both festive and unique, "The Golden Snitch Cocktail" is definitely worth a try.
31. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and classy Christmas cocktail. This tart and sweet libation combines the flavors of maple, cranberry, and bourbon to create a perfect cold-weather drink.
The secret ingredients in this recipe are the maple cranberries and the maple cranberry syrup, which add a unique twist to the classic bourbon cocktail. The garnishes of fresh rosemary and cranberries make this cocktail perfect for the holiday season. Even if you're not a fan of bourbon, this cocktail is definitely worth a try. So, give it a shot and let your taste buds be the judge!
32. Spiced Mulled Wine
Spiced Mulled Wine is a traditional holiday drink that is perfect for cozying up on a cold winter night. Made with red wine, brandy, and mulling spices like cloves, star anise, and cinnamon, this warm and aromatic cocktail is guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
The addition of brandy gives it an extra kick, making it even more potent and perfect for sipping by the fireplace. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a festive drink to enjoy with friends and family, Spiced Mulled Wine is a must-try. So, grab a mug, curl up under a blanket, and let the warmth of this delicious cocktail envelop you in holiday cheer.
33. Cranberry Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail features the familiar flavors of an old fashioned with a touch of cranberry, making it a festive and refreshing drink to enjoy with friends and family.
The cranberry simple syrup adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the cocktail, while the bitters and whiskey provide a warm and comforting taste. The addition of whole fresh cranberries as a garnish not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra burst of cranberry flavor to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a familiar drink with a holiday twist.
34. Non-Alcoholic Sangria
Looking for a classy and delicious non-alcoholic cocktail to serve at your Christmas party? Look no further than the Non-Alcoholic Sangria. This mocktail is bursting with seasonal flavors like cinnamon, oranges, and cranberries.
The secret to this recipe is using sparkling grape juice and brewed tea to create a similar effect to the tannins found in red wine. The addition of cranberry juice and fresh fruit make this mocktail a beautiful and tasty addition to any holiday gathering. So why not impress your guests with this festive and refreshing Non-Alcoholic Sangria?
35. The Black Manhattan Cocktail
If you're looking for a classy Christmas cocktail that's perfect for the fall season, look no further than the Black Manhattan. This variation on the traditional Manhattan cocktail features bittersweet Averna amaro replacing the sweet vermouth, giving it a bitter and sweet flavor profile.
Created by Todd Smith, a bartender at the famed Bourbon & Branch bar in San Francisco, the Black Manhattan is perfect for sipping on while lounging in your favorite chair and watching the seasons change. Whether you prefer bourbon or rye, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and make you feel like a sophisticated mixologist. So why not branch out from your usual cocktail and give the Black Manhattan a try this holiday season?
36. Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a smooth, sophisticated, and classy cocktail that has been a popular choice for many years. This pink-colored cocktail is served in a tall martini glass and garnished with a cherry, making it a pretty and visually appealing drink.
It gained popularity in the late 90s and early 2000s, thanks to its appearance in the hit TV show, Sex and the City. The Cosmopolitan is a perfect choice for a girls' night out or a classy Christmas party. It is a must-try for anyone who loves martinis or is looking for a fun and festive cocktail to enjoy during the holiday season.
37. Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum is a classic winter cocktail that is often overlooked but is incredibly easy to make and delicious. This dessert-like cocktail has a rich, buttery flavor that is gently spiced and finished off with a twist of orange. It's a perfect caffeine-free alternative to a spiked coffee to finish off a meal or night with friends.
Even if you're not typically a fan of rum, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests clamoring for the recipe. Many people also believe that a hot buttered rum helps fight off winter colds. So, if you're looking for a warm and comforting drink to enjoy during the holiday season, be sure to give Hot Buttered Rum a try.
