The holiday season is here, and there's no better way to celebrate than with a delicious drink in hand.
Italy, known for its rich culinary heritage, has a variety of festive beverages that are perfect for the holiday season. From sweet to savory, there's something for everyone.
Italian holiday traditions are centered around food and drink, and the cocktails are no exception. Each region has its own unique twist on classic drinks that reflect the local flavors and ingredients.
For example, in Northern Italy, you'll find cocktails made with sparkling wine and bitter liqueurs, while in Southern Italy, they prefer sweeter cocktails made with citrus and herbs.
The Italian holiday season is a time to indulge in decadent foods and drinks, and what better way to do so than with a festive cocktail?
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a new drink to try, these Italian holiday cocktail recipes are sure to impress. So, grab your shaker and get ready to mix up some holiday cheer!
1. Almond Biscotti Martini
The Almond Biscotti Martini is a modern twist on the classic espresso martini, perfect for the holiday season. The addition of Disaronno Velvet, a cream liqueur with the flavors of almonds, vanilla, and caramel, adds complexity and richness to the cocktail.
The nutmeg syrup and Tia Maria Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur provide a warm and cozy flavor, while the espresso adds a bold kick. This cocktail is sure to impress any coffee and liqueur lover, and it's easy to make at home. Try it out for your next holiday gathering and enjoy the delicious flavors of Italy in a glass.
2. Sparkling Snowfall Cocktail
The Sparkling Snowfall Cocktail is a must-try Italian holiday cocktail for anyone looking to add some sparkle to their Christmas party. This cocktail is inspired by Italian soda and features vanilla vodka and Torani syrup, making it a perfect Christmas drink. The addition of luster dust gives it a snow globe effect, making it a visually stunning drink that will impress your guests.
The combination of peppermint and vanilla flavors in this cocktail is a match made in heaven, making it a delicious and festive drink that will get you in the holiday spirit. If you're looking for an easy yet impressive Italian cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Sparkling Snowfall Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
3. Sgroppino
Sgroppino is a refreshing Italian cocktail that originated in Venice. It is a perfect blend of cocktail and dessert, made with only three ingredients – Prosecco, vodka, and frozen lemon sorbet. This cocktail is a perfect summer refresher and is traditionally served after dinner in Italy.
Sgroppino is a popular holiday cocktail and is often served during the festive season. It is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, and its unique blend of flavors is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to serve during the holidays, Sgroppino is definitely worth a try.
4. Americano Cocktail
The Americano Cocktail is a classic Italian drink made with sweet vermouth, Campari, and a hint of a secret ingredient. It has a bright and citrusy taste with a refreshing fizz.
It's perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and bitter flavors and is a great pick-me-up at the end of a long day. Try pairing it with some easy seafood recipes for a delicious Italian-inspired meal.
5. Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino
If you're looking for a refreshing and sweet Italian cocktail to enjoy during the warmer months, the Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino is a must-try. This iconic cocktail is made with just three ingredients: lemon sorbet, vodka, and Prosecco. The sweet and refreshing lemon sorbet is perfectly balanced by the sharpness of the vodka, while the bubbly Prosecco adds a delightful effervescence.
Served traditionally as a palate cleanser at the end of a meal, this cocktail can also be enjoyed as a light summer aperitif or even a dessert. So, if you're looking for a delicious and authentic Italian cocktail to enjoy during the holidays, the Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino is definitely worth a try.
6. Martini Macchiato Cocktail
The Martini Macchiato Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Espresso Martini, perfect for the festive season. This creamy cocktail features the flavors of espresso and Irish cream liqueur, creating a frothy and indulgent drink.
The name "Macchiato" comes from the Italian word for "marked or stained," which is fitting as the cocktail is a marked departure from traditional holiday drinks. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, the Martini Macchiato Cocktail is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
7. Puccini Cocktail
The Puccini Cocktail is a refreshing and bubbly Italian cocktail that is perfect for any holiday celebration. This cocktail is made with just two ingredients, fresh mandarin juice and Prosecco, and is named after the famous Italian composer Giacomo Puccini.
This cocktail is similar to a Mimosa or Peach Bellini but with the added twist of fresh mandarin juice. It is a perfect drink to serve with Italian snacks such as smoked salmon crostini or burrata with crispy 'Nduja. The Puccini Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little Italian flair to their holiday celebrations.
8. Cranberry Aperol Spritz
The Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a perfect Italian holiday cocktail that will surely add a festive twist to your celebrations. This cocktail is a Christmas variation of the classic Italian aperitif that is usually enjoyed during summers. The bitter and citrusy flavor of Aperol blended with the sweet and syrupy taste of cranberry juice makes it a perfect combination for the holiday season.
The cocktail is a long and refreshing drink that is perfect for serving at Christmas or New Year's Eve parties. The addition of cranberries and oranges gives it a unique and festive touch. If you're looking for a holiday cocktail that is full-bodied and has a Christmas twist, then the Cranberry Aperol Spritz is the perfect choice for you.
9. Raspberry Italian Soda Champagne Cocktail
The Raspberry Italian Soda Champagne Cocktail is a delightful addition to any holiday party. Made with homemade raspberry vanilla syrup and champagne, this aromatic cocktail offers a unique twist on the classic champagne cocktail. The addition of vanilla to the syrup adds a special touch to the cocktail, making it stand out from other holiday drinks.
For those who want to try something different, the cocktail can also be made creamy, which surprisingly works well with champagne. Just a touch of whipped cream is needed to make this cocktail even more special. Overall, the Raspberry Italian Soda Champagne Cocktail is a must-try for those who want to impress their guests with a unique and flavorful holiday drink.
10. Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco
The Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for any holiday gathering or summer party. Made with fresh muddled raspberries, limoncello, and your favorite prosecco, this cocktail is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
The combination of sweet raspberries and tangy lemon creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're sipping it by the pool or serving it at a holiday party, the Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a must-try cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
11. Vin Brulé
Vin Brulé is a classic Italian mulled wine that is perfect for the holiday season. This comforting and warming drink is made with inexpensive fruity red wine, honey, citrus, and clove, which add depth and freshness to the cocktail. The addition of Cointreau and Amaretto gives it a unique twist and a nod to Italy.
The longer the spices are left in, the more pronounced the flavors become. Vin Brulé is easy to make in advance and can be stored for up to five days. It is an excellent drink to serve to guests during the festive season. If you're looking for a warm and cozy cocktail to enjoy during the holidays, Vin Brulé is a must-try.
12. Raspberry Chambord and Prosecco Cocktail
The Raspberry Chambord and Prosecco Cocktail is a refreshing and impressive drink that is perfect for any celebration. Made with Chambord Raspberry Liqueur and fresh raspberries, this Prosecco cocktail is a beautiful addition to any holiday party. The combination of Chambord and Prosecco makes for a boisterous flavor that is sure to impress your guests.
This cocktail is easy to make, and the layered effect is quite impressive. The floating baubles of raspberries add a festive touch to the drink. The Raspberry Chambord and Prosecco Cocktail is a perfect drink for Christmas or Valentine's Day. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to serve at your next party, give this one a try.
13. Classic Bellini
The Classic Bellini is an iconic Italian cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. This refreshing drink is made with only two ingredients, fresh white peach puree and Prosecco, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Originally created in 1948 by Giuseppe Cipriani, the Bellini has become a staple in the world of cocktails.
Its fruity and sweet taste, coupled with the bubbly Prosecco, makes it a perfect choice for brunch or as an aperitif. The Bellini is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of Italy, and it's easy to see why it has become such a beloved classic. So, if you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to add to your holiday celebrations, the Classic Bellini is definitely worth a try.
14. Pomegranate Aperol Spritz
The Pomegranate Aperol Spritz is a festive twist on the classic Italian cocktail. This bubbly drink combines the tartness of pomegranate juice with the citrusy notes of Aperol, creating a refreshing and not overly sweet cocktail.
The addition of champagne and club soda gives it a light and effervescent quality that is perfect for holiday celebrations. The ruby red color of the drink makes it a perfect addition to any festive gathering. Overall, the Pomegranate Aperol Spritz is a sophisticated and impressive cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
15. Classic Bellini Cocktail
The Classic Bellini Cocktail is a refreshing and enchanting drink that originated in the 1940s at the famous Harry's Bar in Venice. This cocktail is made with just three simple ingredients: fresh peach puree, Prosecco, and a Champagne or fluted glass.
The peach puree provides the perfect sweetness to the drink, making it a great option for brunch or a relaxing afternoon sipper. What sets the Bellini apart from other cocktails is the use of fresh fruit puree instead of fruit juice, giving it a unique and authentic taste. The Bellini is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of Italy in their holiday cocktails.
16. Pear Prosecco Punch
The Pear Prosecco Punch is a perfect addition to your holiday party with its sparkling and festive vibe. This Italian cocktail is made with only three ingredients, including fresh juicy pears and sweet pear nectar, making it a healthier option. The fizz of Prosecco adds an elegant touch to the drink, and it can be easily transformed into a mocktail for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Freeze the fruit to keep the drink cool longer and add some fresh ginger for an extra burst of flavor. This cocktail is an easy and elegant option for any holiday gathering, and it's sure to impress your guests with its simplicity and delicious taste.
17. Winter Aperol Spritz
The Winter Aperol Spritz is a delightful Italian holiday cocktail that combines the classic flavors of orange and cranberry with the bubbly goodness of Prosecco. This cocktail is perfect for the holiday season, with its festive and sophisticated appearance, and its sweet and tart taste. What's more, it's incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
Simply add Aperol and unsweetened cranberry juice to a flute glass or coupe, top with Prosecco and a splash of soda water, and garnish with an orange wheel and cranberries. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests and make your holiday party a hit. So, if you're looking for a fun and effortless way to entertain this holiday season, the Winter Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try!
18. Ginger Pomegranate Cocktail
The Ginger Pomegranate Cocktail is a delightful holiday drink that combines the refreshing flavors of ginger beer, pomegranate Italian soda, lime juice, vodka, and fresh herbs. The balance and quality of ingredients are key to this cocktail, and the use of award-winning products from Albertsons such as Signature SELECT Ginger Beer and O Organics Pomegranate Italian Soda make it even more special.
The cocktail is garnished with lime wedges, fresh mint, and pomegranate seeds, adding to its festive appeal. This cocktail is perfect for those who love bright, refreshing drinks, and is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
19. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with Aperol, prosecco, and club soda, this cocktail has a beautiful sunny color that will remind you of warm summer days.
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that is best enjoyed before dinner or with brunch. It is also a great cocktail to serve at a dinner party, as it is easy to make in large batches. The Aperol Spritz is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian cocktails and wants to experience the flavors of Italy.
20. Vin Brulè
Vin Brulè is a traditional Italian mulled wine made with full-bodied red wine, sugar, spices, and citrus fruits. It is warming, disinfectant, and invigorating, making it the perfect drink to enjoy on a cold winter night.
The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, along with the citrus fruits, creates a rich and aromatic flavor that is perfect for the holiday season. It has a low alcohol content and is often sold at Christmas markets or distributed free to people during festivals.
21. Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail
The Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail is a stunning and festive drink that is perfect for any holiday gathering. This cocktail is made with a combination of vodka, elderflower liquor, and prosecco, resulting in a light and floral taste that is sure to impress your guests.
The sugared cranberries and sugar rim add a touch of elegance to the drink, making it a true showstopper. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to celebrate the holiday season in style. So, if you're looking for a delicious and impressive Italian holiday cocktail, the Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
22. Elderflower Aperol Spritz
If you're looking for a refreshing and light Italian holiday cocktail, the Elderflower Aperol Spritz is a must-try. This twist on the classic Aperol Spritz adds a subtle floral note with the addition of elderflower liqueur. The bitterness of Aperol is balanced out by the dry sparkling wine, making it a perfect drink for any occasion.
The garnish of grapefruit wedge and elderflowers or baby’s breath adds a touch of elegance to the drink. Overall, the Elderflower Aperol Spritz is a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to any holiday cocktail menu.
23. Blood Orange Italian Sodas
Looking for a refreshing and unique Italian cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than the Blood Orange Italian Soda. Made with fresh blood orange juice and sparkling water, this drink is both sweet and tangy, with a beautiful deep red color that is perfect for the holiday season.
The addition of coconut cream and a sprig of mint or basil adds a touch of sophistication to this simple yet elegant cocktail. Whether you're hosting a fancy soirée or a quiet dinner at home, the Blood Orange Italian Soda is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
24. Limoncello Cream
Limoncello Cream is a delightful Italian holiday cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. This creamy and citrusy liqueur is made with fresh whipping cream and Limoncello, giving it a rich and velvety texture. Served straight from the freezer, it has a dense consistency that can even be eaten with a spoon.
The Limoncello Cream is perfect for ending a meal with family and friends on a hot summer day or during the winter holidays. It can also be drizzled over ice cream or desserts for an indulgent treat. This cocktail is easy to make at home and will make a thoughtful and unique gift for any occasion. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and satisfying Italian holiday cocktail, Limoncello Cream is definitely worth trying.
