The holiday season is upon us, and as a bartender, I know how important it is to have a great selection of drinks to offer your guests.
Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones, a pitcher of cocktails is a great way to ensure everyone gets a taste of the holiday spirit.
But what makes a great pitcher cocktail? It's all about balance. A good pitcher cocktail should have a mix of strong and sweet flavors, with a little bit of acidity to balance it all out.
It should also be easy to make, so you can spend less time behind the bar and more time enjoying the party.
Of course, when it comes to holiday cocktails, there are a few key ingredients that come to mind.
Think warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, tart cranberries and citrus, and of course, a healthy dose of spirits to keep things merry and bright.
So, whether you're looking for a classic recipe or something a little more adventurous, I've got you covered.
In this post, I'll be sharing some of my favorite pitcher cocktail recipes for the holiday season, along with tips and tricks for making them just right. So grab a shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail
The Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail is a perfect addition to any holiday party. This refreshing and cheerful cocktail is made with a mix of vodka, St. Germain, and freshly squeezed winter citrus juice, topped with bubbly ginger beer and festive pomegranates. The cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a pitcher for friends and family.
The use of in-season winter citrus gives the cocktail a unique and fresh taste. It's a perfect balance of sweet and boozy, making it a crowd-pleaser. The Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a festive and delicious pitcher cocktail for the holiday season.
2. Mistletoe Margaritas
The Mistletoe Margarita is a festive and eye-catching cocktail that is perfect for any holiday party or gathering. Made with a few simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and can be prepared in advance in a pitcher, so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities with your guests.
The cocktail features a refreshing blend of tequila, lime juice, and cranberry juice, with frozen cranberries used as a unique and festive "ice" substitute. Whether you're hosting a small get-together or a large holiday party, the Mistletoe Margarita is sure to be a hit with your guests. So, why not add a little extra holiday cheer to your next gathering with this delicious and festive cocktail?
3. Cranberry Wine Spritzer Christmas Cocktail
The Cranberry Wine Spritzer Christmas Cocktail is a refreshing and festive drink perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Made with cranberry wine, pear cardamom soda, and a mix of whole spices, this cocktail is both sweet and sour, with a delightful balance of flavors.
The addition of lime juice and garnishes of cranberries and lime slices give this cocktail a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests. If you're looking for a pitcher cocktail that's easy to make and sure to please, the Cranberry Wine Spritzer Christmas Cocktail is a must-try.
4. Cranberry Moscow Mules
Looking for an easy and delicious cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than the Cranberry Moscow Mule. This classic cocktail gets a festive twist with the addition of cranberry juice, making it the perfect drink to serve during the holiday season.
Made with vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice, this cocktail is refreshing and easy to make in a large batch for serving a crowd. Whether you serve it in a copper mug or a high ball glass, your guests are sure to love this tasty and festive drink. So why not add the Cranberry Moscow Mule to your holiday cocktail menu and impress your guests with your bartending skills?
5. Poinsettia Christmas Champagne Cocktail
The Poinsettia Christmas Champagne Cocktail is a festive and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and sparkling wine, this cocktail is light and sweet with a hint of tartness. The addition of frozen cranberries keeps the drink chilled without diluting the flavor.
Cranberries are known for their magical properties of courage, action, and abundance, making this cocktail a perfect addition to any holiday celebration. This pitcher cocktail is a great way to serve a crowd without constantly having to make individual drinks. It's a simple yet elegant option that will impress your guests and leave them feeling merry and bright.
6. Jingle Juice Holiday Punch
Looking for a festive and easy-to-make holiday punch recipe? Look no further than the Jingle Juice Holiday Punch! With only three ingredients, this cocktail is simple to whip up and will be a hit at any holiday gathering. The combination of whipped vodka, pink champagne (or sparkling rosé), and Cherry 7-up creates a delicious and colorful punch that is sure to impress your guests.
For an extra touch, consider adding cranberries and rosemary to your ice cubes for a fun and festive addition. Whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy a delicious holiday drink, the Jingle Juice Holiday Punch is a must-try recipe.
7. Cranberry Moscow Mule
Looking for a festive and refreshing cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than the Cranberry Moscow Mule! This twist on the classic Moscow Mule adds tart cranberry juice to the mix, creating a zesty and flavorful drink that's perfect for sipping throughout the holiday season.
The presentation is beautiful, with pretty copper mugs and a simple garnish of fresh cranberries and rosemary. Plus, it's easy to make by the glass or by the pitcher, making it a great choice for entertaining guests. Whether you're hosting a big holiday bash or just relaxing at home, the Cranberry Moscow Mule is a must-try cocktail that's sure to impress.
8. Cranberry St. Germain Cocktail
The Cranberry St. Germain Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and festive drink during the holiday season. This ruby-red cocktail is made with cranberry juice and St. Germain elderflower liqueur, which gives it a sweet and floral flavor that perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberries.
The cocktail is finished with a sparkly lime sugar rim that adds a touch of glamour to the drink. What's great about this cocktail is that it's easy to make in a pitcher, making it perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in. So, whether you're dressed to the nines or lounging in your sweatpants, the Cranberry St. Germain Cocktail is sure to impress.
9. Cranberry Mojito Punch
Looking for a festive and refreshing cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering? Look no further than the Cranberry Mojito Punch! This delightful drink is perfect for any party, with its sweet and tangy cranberry flavor and refreshing minty finish.
Plus, it's easy to make in a large batch, so you can serve it up to all your guests without having to mix individual drinks. And don't forget to add some sugared cranberries and rosemary for a beautiful presentation! Trust us, your guests will be asking for the recipe all night long.
10. White Christmas Cranberry Margarita
The White Christmas Cranberry Margarita is a festive and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is a winter twist on the classic margarita, with the addition of white cranberry juice and a garnish of fresh cranberries and rosemary.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be shaken or stirred, depending on your preference. The salt rimmed glasses add the perfect touch of sweetness and saltiness to the tangy and tart flavors of the cocktail. This cocktail is a great addition to any holiday party and is sure to impress your guests with its unique and delicious flavor.
11. Winter Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Winter Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a chilled Cosmo. This popular signature drink from Bonefish Grill is made with vodka, orange liqueur, Elderflower liqueur syrup, white cranberry juice, lime juice, and garnished with cranberries. The Elderflower syrup substitute used in this recipe makes it a cheaper alternative to the original Elderflower liqueur.
The fragrant Elderflower adds a delicate flavor to the cocktail, making it a perfect drink for any time of the year. The Winter Cosmopolitan Cocktail is easy to make and tastes just like the original. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail, this is definitely one to try.
12. Holiday Cranberry Mojito
The Holiday Cranberry Mojito is a perfect cocktail for the festive season. It's a refreshing and delicious mix of rosemary simple syrup, cranberry juice, mint, and rum that will add a touch of holiday cheer to your celebrations.
The cocktail has a beautiful holiday color and is garnished with fresh fruits and herbs, making it aesthetically pleasing as well. The recipe is easy to make and can be scaled up for larger groups. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both festive and refreshing, the Holiday Cranberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
13. Christmas Punch
If you're looking for a refreshing and festive drink to serve at your holiday party, Christmas Punch is the perfect choice. This fizzy beverage is a blend of pomegranate, lime, and cranberry, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The cocktail can easily be turned into an alcoholic drink by adding your favorite liquor, making it a versatile option for any type of gathering.
The garnish of fresh cranberries, lime slices, and mint sprigs adds a beautiful touch to the pitcher, making it a lovely addition to any holiday table. Overall, Christmas Punch is a simple and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests and get them in the holiday spirit.
14. Christmas Sangria
Looking for a festive and flavorful cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering? Look no further than Christmas Sangria! This delightful cocktail is a perfect balance of crisp and fruity, with a touch of sweetness that will make your taste buds sing.
With fresh cranberries, Granny Smith apples, and a sprig of rosemary, this sangria is not only delicious but also visually stunning. It's no wonder that this recipe has become a holiday staple for many families. So why not add some extra cheer to your holiday season with a pitcher of Christmas Sangria?
15. Cranberry Vodka
Looking for a festive and easy-to-make cocktail for your Christmas party? Look no further than the Cranberry Vodka cocktail. This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for the holiday season, with its bright red color and citrusy cranberry flavor.
Whether you're hosting a large gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, this cocktail is sure to be a hit. So why not add a pitcher of Cranberry Vodka to your holiday menu and raise a glass to the season?
16. Cranberry Mojito
The Cranberry Mojito is a festive and refreshing Christmas cocktail that is perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Made with rum, cranberry juice, and fresh mint, this sweet and tart cocktail is sure to impress your guests. The red and green colors of the drink make it especially festive and perfect for the holiday season.
The addition of lime slices and lemon-lime soda adds a refreshing twist to the classic mojito. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail to serve at your next Christmas party, the Cranberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
17. Spicy Pomegranate Moscow Mule
The Spicy Pomegranate Moscow Mule is a festive and warming cocktail perfect for holiday parties and cold winter nights. It features vodka, fresh lime and grapefruit juice, pomegranate juice, and spicy jalapeños, topped off with ginger beer for a touch of sweetness and a little bit of bubbly.
The double citrus action and just the right amount of heat from the jalapeños make this cocktail a crowd-pleaser. Try it at your next holiday gathering and impress your guests with this delicious and unique cocktail.
18. Cranberry Margaritas
The Cranberry Margarita is a festive and delicious cocktail that is perfect for any holiday gathering. Made with 100% cranberry juice, oranges, limes, simple syrup, sugar, salt, fresh cranberries, and tequila, this cocktail is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic margarita.
The combination of tart cranberry juice and sweet simple syrup creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The addition of fresh cranberries adds a festive touch and makes for a beautiful presentation. Whether you're sipping this cocktail by the pool in the summer or serving it at your next holiday party, the Cranberry Margarita is a must-try for any margarita lover.
19. Cranberry Mule Holiday Cocktail
The Cranberry Mule Holiday Cocktail is a refreshing and festive drink that is perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. Made with bourbon or any other preferred mule base, ginger beer, and fresh cranberry sauce, this cocktail is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule.
The addition of cranberry sauce gives it a tangy and sweet flavor that perfectly complements the whiskey. This cocktail is a great option for those who want to try something new and exciting this holiday season. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pitcher cocktail to serve at your next holiday party, the Cranberry Mule Holiday Cocktail is definitely worth a try!
20. Cranberry Holiday Punch
If you're looking for a lighter Christmas cocktail option, then the Cranberry Holiday Punch is a must-try. This festive cocktail is filled with fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, cranberry juice, and prosecco, making it a perfect addition to your holiday party or brunch.
It's a refreshing and fruity drink that's sure to impress your guests. Plus, it's easy to make in a pitcher, so you can enjoy the party without worrying about constantly mixing drinks. So, if you want to add a little sparkle to your holiday celebrations, give the Cranberry Holiday Punch a try.
21. Cranberry Pomegranate Mojito
The Cranberry Pomegranate Mojito is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. It's a refreshing twist on the classic mojito, with a festive touch of red and green. This cocktail is a great option for those who want to toast the New Year with something different than bubbly.
The combination of cranberry and pomegranate creates a sweet and tart flavor that is perfectly balanced with the mint and rum. The cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a pitcher, making it a great option for parties. If you're looking for a fun and festive cocktail to serve at your holiday gatherings, the Cranberry Pomegranate Mojito is definitely worth trying.
22. Mele Kalikimaka Mai Tai
The Mele Kalikimaka Mai Tai is a holiday twist on the classic Mai Tai cocktail, perfect for Christmas celebrations. The recipe uses Koloa Rum's gold and spiced rum, with a float of dark rum for a Christmassy touch. Instead of the traditional lime juice, the cocktail uses pineapple juice and Tiki Bitters, which adds spices like cinnamon and clove.
The cocktail is garnished with sugared cranberries, pineapple, sugar cane swizzle stick, and mint. The cocktail is a part of a larger article featuring unique Christmas cocktails created by other bloggers. The Mele Kalikimaka Mai Tai is a must-try for anyone who loves tiki cocktails and wants to add a tropical twist to their Christmas celebrations.
23. Cape Cod Cocktail
The Cape Cod Cocktail is a refreshing and simple drink that is perfect for any occasion. This classic cocktail is made with three ingredients: vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice. The tart cranberry flavor is balanced out by the refreshing lime juice, making it a perfect drink for cooling off on a hot summer day or sipping at a holiday party.
The bright, bold color and cranberry flavor make it a great addition to any holiday party, and it can easily be dressed up with fresh or frozen cranberries and lime wedges. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple yet delicious drink that is sure to impress.
24. Winter Aperol Spritz
The Winter Aperol Spritz is a seasonal twist on the classic Aperol Spritz, perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is made with Aperol, Prosecco, and sparkling water, with a few seasonal ingredient modifications that give it a wintery vibe.
The garnishes include a grapefruit wedge, a sprig of rosemary, and a few pomegranate arils. The cocktail takes on a lovely gradient hue that reminds you of a vibrant winter sunset. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a refreshing and effervescent drink during the winter season.
25. Southern Blue Blitzen
If you're looking for a fruity and flavorful pitcher cocktail to serve at your Christmas party, Southern Blue Blitzen is a must-try. This cocktail combines two types of rum, fruit-flavored liqueurs, pineapple juice, and Polar Blast to create a delicious party punch. It's easy to adjust the recipe for a single glass or a large punch bowl, making it perfect for any size gathering.
The best part? You can mix it in advance and let the flavors marry in the fridge for a few days, making party prep a breeze. This cocktail is a great option for those who enjoy rum and fruity flavors. Don't miss out on this delightful and refreshing Christmas cocktail.
26. Margarita
The Margarita is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with simple and fresh ingredients, this Pitcher Margarita Recipe is perfect for serving a crowd during Christmas celebrations. The recipe can be adjusted to serve one or as many as 24 people, making it a versatile option for any holiday gathering.
The use of Reposado Tequila adds a smoothness to the cocktail, making it a crowd-pleaser. The Margarita is a must-try for anyone looking for a classic cocktail that is easy to make and delicious to drink.
27. Cranberry Tequila Spritzer
The Cranberry Tequila Spritzer is a festive and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any holiday occasion. This tequila-based drink is a great pick-me-up after indulging in a holiday feast, and its smooth, sweet, and familiar holiday flavor is sure to please.
The addition of cranberry gives it a slightly tart taste, making it a great match for turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. The cocktail is best served in a short tumbler style glass, which showcases its luxurious color and allows for comfortable holding. The Cranberry Tequila Spritzer is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious holiday cocktail.
28. Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule Punch
The Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule Punch is a perfect cocktail recipe for the holiday season. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, with the addition of cranberry apple juice and fresh cranberries and apples. It's a refreshing and flavorful punch that is perfect for fall and winter, and it's great for serving a crowd.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be served immediately with ice, or chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If you're looking for a festive and delicious cocktail to serve at your holiday parties, Friendsgiving or Christmas, the Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule Punch is definitely worth trying.
29. Non-Alcoholic Sangria
Looking for a festive and delicious non-alcoholic option for your holiday party? Look no further than the Non-Alcoholic Sangria. This mocktail takes inspiration from traditional sangria, but uses sparkling grape juice and brewed tea as the base instead of wine.
The addition of cranberry juice, sliced oranges, fresh cranberries, and cinnamon sticks make for a flavorful and beautiful drink that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for those who want to partake in the holiday cheer without the alcohol. Give this Non-Alcoholic Sangria a try and impress your guests with this tasty and refreshing option.
30. Cranberry Mojitos
Looking for a festive and refreshing pitcher cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than the Cranberry Mojito! This twist on the classic mojito combines the fresh flavors of mint and lime with the tartness of cranberry juice concentrate, resulting in a deliciously pink and seasonal drink.
The addition of sparkling water adds a bit of effervescence, making it a perfect celebratory cocktail. And with the option to make a large batch in advance, it's an easy and stress-free option for entertaining. Your guests are sure to love sipping on these Cranberry Mojitos all season long.
31. Cosmo
The Cosmo is a classic cocktail that has been a crowd-pleaser for years. It's a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and tart flavors that come together to create a deliciously balanced drink. The combination of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice makes for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is sure to impress your guests during the holiday season.
Whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy a delicious drink on your own, the Cosmo is a great choice. It's easy to make and can be served in a pitcher, making it a perfect option for larger gatherings. So, if you're looking for a tasty and festive cocktail to serve this Christmas, be sure to give the Cosmo a try!
32. Pomegranate Paloma
The Pomegranate Paloma is a festive and colorful cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, pomegranate juice, lime juice, tequila, homemade cinnamon simple syrup, and a splash of soda water, this cocktail is a twist on the classic paloma recipe. The pomegranate juice adds a touch of sweetness and tartness, while the cinnamon simple syrup adds depth and spice to the drink.
Garnished with pomegranate arils and a sprig of sugared rosemary, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It can be easily made in a cocktail shaker or pitcher-style for a crowd. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Pomegranate Paloma is definitely worth a try.
33. White Chocolate Martini
The White Chocolate Martini is a perfect holiday cocktail that will make you feel cozy and relaxed. This creamy and sweet cocktail is more of a dessert than a drink, but it definitely packs a punch with all the alcohol in it. Topped with dark chocolate shavings, this martini is a perfect addition to any winter gathering or holiday party.
If you're looking for a festive drink to sip on while enjoying the holiday season, the White Chocolate Martini is definitely worth trying. Don't forget to add some decorative chocolate drizzles to make it even more special!
34. Red Sangria With Brandy
The Red Sangria With Brandy is a festive Spanish wine punch made with full-bodied dry red wine, brandy, and fresh-squeezed oranges, lemons, and limes. The addition of ginger ale gives it a bit of effervescence, and the wine-soaked fruit is an added bonus.
The bright red color of the cocktail makes it an ideal choice for a Christmas party, and the addition of star anise and cinnamon sticks gives it a festive touch. Overall, it's a must-try cocktail for anyone looking to celebrate the holiday season in style.
