Holiday cocktails are a festive tradition that adds excitement and elegance to New Year’s Eve. These festive cocktail recipes are easy to make, full of seasonal flavors, and guaranteed to impress the guests at your bar or restaurant. From classic favorites to modern twists, there’s something here for everyone:
Eggnog Cocktail
Eggnog is a holiday classic and turning it into a cocktail makes it even more festive. This indulgent drink combines rich, creamy eggnog with smooth rum and a dash of nutmeg for warmth and spice. To make it, pour eggnog into a glass, add rum, and stir gently. Sprinkle nutmeg on top for a finishing touch that feels like pure holiday cheer.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is the ultimate cozy winter drink, perfect for chilly evenings. Start with red wine and gently simmer it with fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Add orange slices for brightness and a hint of sweetness. Serve warm in a heatproof glass for an aromatic experience that feels like the holidays in every sip.
Hot Buttered Rum
This decadent cocktail delivers comfort in a mug. Combine spiced rum with a rich mixture of butter, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and top with hot water for a creamy, sweet drink that’s perfect for cold nights. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Pomegranate Sparkler
Bright and festive, the pomegranate sparkler adds a refreshing twist to winter celebrations. This cocktail combines tart pomegranate juice with sparkling wine or champagne for a crisp, bubbly drink that feels elegant and seasonal. To make it, pour chilled pomegranate juice into a flute, top with sparkling wine, and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds for a pop of color.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
The cranberry Moscow mule is a holiday-ready version of the classic mule. Vodka pairs perfectly with ginger beer and a splash of cranberry juice for a drink that’s both tangy and spicy. Serve it over ice in a copper mug, garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary, and enjoy a cocktail that looks as festive as it tastes.
Spiced Pear Fizz
Delicate and aromatic, the spiced pear fizz brings a sophisticated flavor profile to your winter menu. This cocktail blends pear nectar with vodka and a hint of warm spices, topped with sparkling water for a light, effervescent finish. Garnish with a thin pear slice and a cinnamon stick for a drink that feels cozy yet refreshing.
Festive Apple Cider Punch
Sweet and tangy, festive apple cider punch is perfect for holiday gatherings and winter celebrations. This cocktail blends crisp apple cider with smooth bourbon, a splash of orange juice for brightness, and a touch of maple syrup for rich, seasonal sweetness. Add slices of fresh apple and orange along with cinnamon sticks for a warm, aromatic garnish that looks as good as it tastes. You can also make it a mocktail by foregoing the bourbon.
