As the holiday season approaches, the chill in the air calls for cozy evenings spent indoors with loved ones.
Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to unwind after a long day, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting drink to lift your spirits. And what better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious bourbon cocktail?
Bourbon, with its rich, smoky flavor and warming qualities, is the perfect base for a holiday drink. Whether you prefer it neat or mixed into a cocktail, bourbon is sure to add a touch of sophistication to any gathering.
From classic recipes to modern twists, there are countless ways to enjoy this beloved spirit during the holidays.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which bourbon cocktail to serve. That's where we come in. We've scoured the internet and consulted with expert bartenders to bring you the very best warm holiday bourbon cocktail recipes.
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon drinker or new to the spirit, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and keep you warm all winter long.
So, grab a cozy blanket, light the fire, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate holiday treat – a warm, comforting bourbon cocktail.
1. Bourbon Hot Chocolate
Bourbon Hot Chocolate is a delightful winter cocktail that is sure to warm you up on a cold night. This spiked homemade hot chocolate is made with real maple syrup, cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, milk, vanilla extract, and a good bourbon. The combination of the maple syrup and cocoa powder is simply divine, and the addition of bourbon takes it to a whole new level.
The richness and warmth of this cocktail make it the perfect drink for a cozy night in or a holiday party. Whether you're looking for a comforting boozy cocktail or a sweet treat to share with your loved ones, Bourbon Hot Chocolate is definitely worth a try.
2. The Blizzard
Looking for a unique bourbon cocktail to serve during your holiday gatherings? Look no further than "The Blizzard"! This slightly sweet and refreshing cocktail features a perfectly balanced blend of bourbon, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and homemade simple syrup.
It's garnished with a slice of lemon or a couple of cranberries, making it a festive addition to any holiday party. Plus, it's not too fruity or sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser for bourbon lovers and skeptics alike. Don't miss out on trying this delicious cocktail!
3. A Long Winter's Nap
Looking for a cozy and comforting Bourbon cocktail to warm you up during the holiday season? Look no further than "A Long Winter's Nap"! This cocktail is infused with delicious flavors of ginger, cardamom, star anise, and maple syrup, making it the perfect drink to sip on a cold winter night.
The addition of freshly plucked fir adds a unique twist to the drink, making it even more special. Whether you're hosting a New Year's Eve gathering or just looking for a comforting drink to enjoy at home, "A Long Winter's Nap" is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
4. Chai Spiced Bourbon Cocktail
The Chai Spiced Bourbon Cocktail is a delicious and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with Tazo Chai Tea Latte Concentrate, bourbon, and ginger ale, this cocktail has the perfect balance of chai spice and refreshing ginger ale. It can be garnished with cinnamon sticks for an extra festive touch.
This cocktail is a great option for those who are new to bourbon, as the other flavors complement the bourbon without overpowering it. Overall, the Chai Spiced Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a warm and cozy drink to enjoy during the holidays.
5. Spiked Apple Cider With Bourbon
Looking for a warm and cozy holiday cocktail that will warm your spirits? Look no further than the Spiked Apple Cider with Bourbon. This easy-to-sip cocktail is perfect for chilly nights, fall and winter festivities, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The combination of homemade apple cider and bourbon creates a festive and aromatic drink that will make your home smell like Christmas.
This classic cocktail is easy to make and is perfect for serving a crowd. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy night in, the Spiked Apple Cider with Bourbon is sure to be a hit. So turn on your favorite holiday playlist, brew up a batch of jolly good times, and cheers to the holiday season!
6. Hot Toddy
If you're looking for a cozy, comforting cocktail to warm you up during the holiday season, look no further than the Hot Toddy. This classic cocktail is made with hot water, honey, lemon, and a spirit such as bourbon, whiskey, or brandy. It's perfect for sipping on a chilly night or when you're feeling under the weather.
The warmth of the drink soothes the throat and body, while the honey and lemon provide a touch of sweetness and tanginess. The addition of bourbon gives the Hot Toddy a subtle, smoky flavor that's perfect for the holiday season. So, if you're looking for a delicious and comforting cocktail to enjoy this winter, give the Hot Toddy a try.
7. Bourbon Hot Toddy
The Bourbon Hot Toddy is a classic hot whiskey cocktail perfect for warming up on chilly evenings. Made with bourbon, lemon, spices, and hot water, it has a long history and is known for its ability to cure colds.
It is a versatile drink that can be made with different brown liquors or even apple cider. The warm and comforting flavors of this cocktail make it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.
8. Hot Buttered Bourbon
Hot Buttered Bourbon is a rich and indulgent warm holiday cocktail that is perfect for those cold winter nights. This cocktail is not for the faint of heart, as it is made with a stick of butter, brown sugar, spices, and a healthy amount of bourbon. The ingredients are heated together and then a splash of hot water is added to bring everything together.
The result is a decadent and warming drink that is perfect for sipping by the fire. While whipped cream is optional, it adds an extra layer of indulgence to this already rich cocktail. If you're looking for a warm and comforting holiday cocktail that is sure to impress, Hot Buttered Bourbon is definitely worth trying.
9. Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail
The Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who love warm and cozy cocktails during the holiday season. This cocktail is full of maple and citrus flavors, making it a great sipper to enjoy by the fire. The combination of fresh pressed apple cider and bourbon creates a unique and festive taste that is perfect for any fall or winter gathering.
The addition of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that complements the apple cider perfectly. This cocktail can also be made in a slow cooker, making it a great option for serving a crowd. If you're a fan of warm cocktails, the Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
10. Warm Spiced Vanilla Cocktail
The Warm Spiced Vanilla Cocktail is a perfect drink to cozy up with during the winter season. This cocktail has a chai latte-like flavor with a combination of vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, Irish cream, and bourbon. The cinnamon-sugared rim adds a perfect touch to the drink, making it taste like cinnamon toast.
This cocktail is easy to make with ingredients that are readily available in your cupboard. If you're looking for a warming winter cocktail that will brighten up your day and night, then the Warm Spiced Vanilla Cocktail is a must-try.
11. Pine Old Fashioned
If you're looking for a warm and cozy holiday cocktail, the Pine Old Fashioned might be just what you need. This twist on the classic Old Fashioned features a subtle pine flavor, thanks to the pine simple syrup used in the recipe.
Paired with a bourbon that has hints of honey and cinnamon, this cocktail is sure to make you feel like you're sipping on the holidays. The addition of Angostura Bitters brings warm baking spices to the mix, making it a perfect winter sipper. If you're a fan of Old Fashioneds, this Pine Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
12. Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a delicious and warming cocktail perfect for the holiday season. The homemade spiced chai simple syrup adds a unique and delicious flavor to the classic old fashioned cocktail. The addition of winter citrus and a touch of vanilla make this drink even more special.
It's not too sweet and not too heavy on the bourbon, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings. If you're looking for a festive and flavorful cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.
13. Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail
The Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail is a classic winter drink that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is a creamy and sweet blend of eggnog and bourbon that is sure to warm you up on a cold winter night. The recipe calls for just the right amount of bourbon to give the drink a little kick without overpowering the eggnog.
The cocktail can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. If you're looking for a festive drink to serve at your holiday party, the Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail is a great choice. So, grab a glass and enjoy the delicious flavors of this holiday classic!
14. Winter Spiced Old Fashioned
The Winter Spiced Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail for bourbon lovers this holiday season. This classic cocktail has been given a cozy twist with the addition of spiced simple syrup, which is infused with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The bourbon used in the cocktail plays a significant role in its taste, and the Bulleit bourbon is recommended for this recipe.
However, Knob Creek or Four Roses can also be used. The Winter Spiced Old Fashioned is perfect for sipping by the fireside while enjoying the holiday season with friends and family. If you're looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to enjoy this winter, the Winter Spiced Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
15. Bourbon Cider Cocktail
The Bourbon Cider Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who want to experience the warmth and coziness of the holiday season. This cocktail is a perfect blend of apple cider, bourbon, and a ginger pomegranate syrup spiced with cinnamon and cloves. The ruby red spiced drink is sweetly spiced and totally cozy, making it an ideal drink to enjoy while snuggling with blankets and watching a favorite show.
The cocktail is a great way to experience hygge, the Danish word for coziness, and it's a perfect strategy for getting through the cold months ahead. The Bourbon Cider Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a warm holiday bourbon cocktail that is easy to make and tastes amazing.
16. Bourbon Smash Cocktail
The Bourbon Smash Cocktail is a seasonal twist on the classic whiskey smash recipe. This cocktail is a perfect blend of rich, rustic flavors that are strong but sweetened with simple syrup, berries, and herbs. The cocktail is made by muddling fresh lemon and blueberries and straining them over the glass of ice, bourbon, and cinnamon.
The warm and cozy flavors of this cocktail make it a perfect choice for the holiday season. If you are a bourbon lover, this cocktail is a must-try. It is a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. So, grab a glass and enjoy the warmth of this delicious Bourbon Smash Cocktail.
17. Spiked Chai
Looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to sip on during the holidays? Look no further than the Spiked Chai! This delicious cocktail is a twist on the classic chai tea, featuring a blend of spices and black tea, with the added kick of bourbon.
The warm and cozy flavors of cardamom, allspice, and cloves make this cocktail the perfect choice for a chilly winter evening. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy night in, the Spiked Chai is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and add a little extra warmth and cheer to your holiday season?
18. Bourbon Chai Eggnog
If you're looking for a warm and cozy holiday cocktail to enjoy by the fireplace, look no further than the Bourbon Chai Eggnog. This cocktail combines the classic flavors of eggnog with warm chai spices and a kick of bourbon for a delicious and festive drink.
The recipe recommends letting the spices infuse with the eggnog for a day before adding the bourbon, allowing the flavors to really meld together. Whether you're watching football or flipping through recipe clippings, the Bourbon Chai Eggnog is the perfect drink to sip on during the holiday season.
19. Chai-Cranberry Bourbon Smash
The Chai-Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a festive and cozy cocktail perfect for the holiday season. Made with a blend of bourbon and rye, this cocktail is infused with warm chai spice and freshly muddled rosemary. The addition of fresh cranberries and lime wedges adds a touch of tartness, while the brown sugar-chai simple syrup brings a sweet and spicy flavor to the mix.
Topped with ginger ale for a fizzy kick, this cocktail is sure to add a cheery note to any holiday gathering. If you're looking for a warm and comforting bourbon cocktail to sip on during the holidays, the Chai-Cranberry Bourbon Smash is definitely worth a try.
20. Orange Bourbon Smash
The Orange Bourbon Smash is a warming yet refreshing cocktail that is perfect for holiday celebrations. This cocktail combines the bold flavors of bourbon and bitters with the sweetness of fresh mandarin and the complexity of vermouth and Grand Marnier. The cocktail is garnished with mandarin strands, adding a pop of color and flavor to the drink.
What sets this cocktail apart is its use of fresh ingredients and lack of added sugar, making it a healthier option for those looking to indulge without the guilt. The Orange Bourbon Smash is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication to their holiday festivities.
21. Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail
The Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and cherry flavors. This cocktail is perfect for the winter season, with its warming and sweet taste. The drink is made with bourbon, cherry brandy, and chocolate liqueur, all shaken together and poured into a small glass.
The cocktail is topped with a delicate float of cream and grated chocolate, with a Maraschino cherry hiding in the bottom of the glass. It's a stylish and sophisticated drink that's perfect for sipping by a cozy fire on a chilly winter's night. If you're looking for a warm holiday bourbon cocktail that's both delicious and impressive, the Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
22. Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash
The Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a festive and warming cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This bourbon-based drink is filled with the flavors of cranberry and orange, and topped with ginger ale, which adds a tangy and earthy taste.
The cocktail also features fresh rosemary and cranberry sauce, which give it a bright and true cranberry flavor. This cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving and can be easily made for a crowd. Overall, the Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress your guests during the holiday season.
23. Classic Hot Toddy
The Classic Hot Toddy is a warm and comforting cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This classic recipe is made with only four simple ingredients and can be customized to your liking with different types of whiskey or even dark rum or brandy.
Not only is it delicious, but it's also known to help soothe cold symptoms and promote a good night's sleep. This is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a cozy and relaxing drink to enjoy during the colder months.
24. Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch
The Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch is a festive twist on a classic cocktail that's perfect for the holiday season. The homemade cranberry-orange syrup adds a touch of sweetness and warmth to the bourbon, while the fresh citrus and candied rosemary garnish give it a beautiful presentation.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be served as a single drink or as a punch for a crowd. The cranberry syrup can be made ahead of time for easy entertaining. If you're looking for a delicious and festive cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering, the Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch is a must-try.
25. Apple Bourbon Cocktail
The Apple Bourbon Cocktail is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with your favorite bourbon, cold-pressed apple juice, fresh citrus, and amaretto, this cocktail has a sweet and nutty flavor that is sure to warm you up on a chilly night.
The addition of fresh herbs or a citrus slice as a garnish adds a lovely touch to the overall experience of sipping this cocktail. Whether you're a bourbon lover or just looking for a festive drink to share with friends and family, the Apple Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try. So, why not give it a shot and see for yourself how delicious it really is?
26. Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail
The Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect warm holiday drink that will surely make your evening cozy and delightful. This cocktail is a combination of apple cider, cinnamon, allspice, butterscotch, and bourbon that creates a perfect balance of flavors. The warm and layered flavor of the drink comes from steeping the cider with cinnamon stick and allspice berries.
The addition of butterscotch sauce adds a mellow sweetness to the cocktail, and the bourbon gives it the perfect kick. The cocktail is best served with a cinnamon stick stirrer and paired with a slice of apple pie or apple cake. If you're looking for a warm holiday drink that will make your evening more delightful, the Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try.
27. Santa's Nightcap
"Santa's Nightcap" is a deliciously naughty warm holiday bourbon cocktail that is perfect for sipping by the fire while watching a Christmas movie or playing board games. This cocktail is made with chai tea, milk, honey, fresh cinnamon, ginger, and a good splash of bourbon.
The name itself is enough to make you want to try it, and the combination of flavors is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time and keep in the fridge, making it perfect for entertaining. If you're looking for a festive and flavorful holiday cocktail, "Santa's Nightcap" is definitely worth trying.
28. Winter Warm-Up
Looking for a warm and cozy cocktail to enjoy during the holiday season? Look no further than the Winter Warm-Up! This delicious cocktail combines hot coffee with Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey for a rich and bold flavor.
Topped with homemade cinnamon whipped cream and stirred with a cinnamon stick, this cocktail is the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter day. While some may mistake it for an Irish Coffee, the use of bourbon gives it a unique and distinct taste. So why not give the Winter Warm-Up a try this holiday season and experience the perfect blend of warmth and flavor?
29. Bourbon Brown Sugar Old Fashioned
The Bourbon Brown Sugar Old Fashioned is a simple yet delicious cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail adds a twist to the classic old-fashioned by incorporating brown sugar, which gives it a warm and cozy feel. The addition of orange peel and cinnamon stick adds a subtle but delightful flavor to the drink.
The bourbon used in the cocktail is the perfect complement to the sweetness of the brown sugar. This cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering. If you're looking for a warm and comforting bourbon cocktail to enjoy during the holidays, the Bourbon Brown Sugar Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
30. Maple Old Fashioned
If you're looking for a cozy and warming cocktail to sip on during the holiday season, the Maple Old Fashioned is a must-try. This sweet and boozy cocktail is perfect for bourbon lovers, with warm notes of vanilla, caramel, maple, coffee, chocolate, dried fruit, and orange.
The maple syrup is mixed with the bourbon, creating a smooth and silky texture that is equally sweetened throughout. This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fire on a cold winter night. If you're a fan of old fashioned cocktails, this one is sure to become a new favorite. Don't miss out on trying this liquid ambrosia.
31. Haunted Graveyard Halloween Cocktail
If you're looking for a spooky and warming bourbon cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Haunted Graveyard Halloween Cocktail is worth considering. This cocktail combines bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with a hint of orange and rosemary for a complex and woodsy flavor.
The added touch of smoking rosemary adds a theatrical element that will impress your guests. Even if you don't want to use a smoking twig of rosemary, the cocktail still offers a woodsy taste from shaking the ingredients together. Overall, the Haunted Graveyard Halloween Cocktail is a perfect addition to your holiday cocktail menu.
32. Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail
The Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail is a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. This twist on the classic Moscow Mule combines smooth bourbon, spicy ginger, refreshing orange, and warm spices to create a delicious and festive drink.
The addition of citrus and spice-infused simple syrup gives this cocktail a holiday touch that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is versatile, easy to make, and refreshing, making it a great choice for any occasion. If you're a bourbon lover, this cocktail is a must-try. So, add it to your cocktail list and impress your guests with this delicious and festive drink.
33. Gingered Bourbon-Apple Cider Cocktail
The Gingered Bourbon-Apple Cider Cocktail is a perfect drink for any fall gathering. This cocktail is a blend of bourbon, apple cider, and ginger ale or ginger beer, with a few dashes of your favorite cocktail bitters. The addition of fresh squeezed lemon juice or a splash of orange juice gives it a tart kick. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a sweet finish with a hint of spice.
The ginger ale gives a sweeter finish while ginger beer adds more spice. This cocktail is perfect for pairing with apple pie cupcakes or apple shortcakes. The Gingered Bourbon-Apple Cider Cocktail is the ultimate fall drink that will surely make you feel those comforting fall vibes for this festive time of year.
34. Apple Cider Old Fashioned
The Apple Cider Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for the fall season. This warm and cozy cocktail is made with bourbon and apple cider, giving it a sweet and spicy flavor. The caramel notes from the bourbon blend perfectly with the caramelization of the beef, making it an ideal pairing for roasted meat.
If you're looking for a dessert option, try serving it with apple shortcakes or apple spice cupcakes. The cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a mixing glass. If you're a fan of fall cocktails, this one is a must-try.
35. Ginger Gold Rush Cocktail
The Ginger Gold Rush Cocktail is a perfect addition to any holiday celebration. Made with only three ingredients, this cocktail is quick and easy to make. The spicy ginger liqueur adds a unique twist to the classic Gold Rush cocktail, making it a cozy and warm drink for a chilly fall evening.
The combination of belly-warming bourbon and tart lemon juice creates a smooth and well-balanced drink that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're hosting a backyard bonfire or a cozy night in, this cocktail is the perfect addition to your holiday drink menu. So, shake up a glass of this smooth and spicy cocktail and enjoy the warmth of the holiday season.
36. Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
The Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail is a perfect addition to your holiday cocktail menu. This sweet and strong cocktail is a great way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie without the overwhelming sweetness. The combination of bourbon and vodka creates a unique taste that is sure to impress your guests.
The addition of pecans as a garnish adds a nice touch to the presentation of the cocktail. Whether you prefer it on the rocks or as a martini, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. So, if you're looking for a warm and cozy cocktail to serve this holiday season, the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
