These holiday cocktails elevate December gatherings with a delightful variety of flavors, spices, and garnishes that go beyond traditional eggnog. There’s something for everyone—from the cocktail novice to the seasoned bartender.

The perfect drink for Christmas parties would ideally come from a pitcher, allowing hosts to serve guests efficiently. A refreshing mix can be made with chilled sparkling white wine, cherry brandy, and dry ginger ale, creating a deliciously festive beverage.

In December, two types of people emerge: those who eagerly await their first holiday cocktail, and those who become impromptu bartenders at every event. The holiday season transforms familiar drinks into festive treats, with rosemary, cranberries, and spices adding a creative touch. Whether hosting a dinner, a casual gathering, or needing a cozy drink to unwind, these cocktails bring joy and character to any occasion.

Notably, the cocktails on offer range from classic adaptations to innovative seasonal creations. For instance, there’s a rosemary-infused martini reminiscent of a walk through a winter herb garden and a mezcal-tequila blend that adds a unique smoky flavor with a festive twist. For a taste of the tropics, the spicy mangonada, featuring frozen mango, spices, and a fresh ginger beer topping, embraces the holiday spirit with a bright kick.

Among the array of drinks, nostalgia reigns with flavors like maple and cocoa, while bright citrus accents enhance the palate. A comforting hot toddy makes its debut for those needing a moment of relaxation. Each cocktail promises to delight, making them perfect additions to holiday celebrations.

Cocktail Recipes

Rosemary-tini

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 oz Staple Gin
• 3/4 oz dry vermouth
• 1-2 dashes of orange bitters
• splash of olive brine
• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary

Directions: Muddle rosemary leaves with olive brine in a shaker. Add gin, vermouth, and bitters, then stir with ice. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with rosemary and a lemon twist.

Oy to the World

Ingredients:

• 0.5 oz Ilegal Mezcal
• 1.5 oz Patron Silver Tequila
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 1 oz Cheeky Hot Honey or Apricot Syrup

Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and fine strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a gelt chocolate coin bag.

Spicy Mangonada

Ingredients:

• 2 fl oz Captain Morgan Sweet Chili Lime
• 4 oz frozen mango
• 0.5 fl oz agave
• 0.5 fl oz fresh lime juice
• Chamoy sauce and Tajín for garnish

Directions: Blend all ingredients and rim a glass with chamoy and Tajín. Pour in the blended cocktail.

Holiday Blizzard

Ingredients:

• 0.5 oz Mijenta Tequila Blanco
• 0.25 oz white crème de cacao
• 1 oz roasted coconut cream
• 0.25 oz cinnamon syrup
• 2 bar spoons soursop pulp
• 2-3 dashes of chocolate bitters

Directions: Shake with ice and serve in a highball glass with crushed ice.

Holiday Humbug Sour

Ingredients:

• 0.75 oz DEWAR’S 12 Year Old
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz cherry juice
• 0.5 oz maple syrup
• 1 pipette Miracle Foamer or egg white

Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and double strain into a glass.

Cranberry Bourbon Mule

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz bourbon
• 0.5 oz cranberry syrup
• 4 oz ginger beer
• Rosemary sprig and cranberries for garnish

Directions: In a mule mug filled with ice, mix bourbon, cranberry syrup, and ginger beer. Stir and garnish with a rosemary sprig and cranberries.

With these recipes in hand, you’re ready to stir up some holiday magic. Cheers to merry moments and delightful sips!