Get Cozy with These 20 Festive Holiday Drink Recipes
As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to gathering around the fireplace with loved ones and sharing in the joy of the season. And what’s more magical than sipping on a warm, comforting drink while surrounded by twinkling lights and festive cheer? Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself to a special holiday pick-me-up, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious and creative festive holiday drink recipes.
From classic eggnog and hot cocoa to more unique concoctions like mulled wine and pomegranate champagne punch, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, grab your favorite mug or glass, and get ready to warm up the spirits with these tasty treats.
Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks
This autumnal treat is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, warming your senses and filling your home with inviting aromas. With the simplicity of this recipe, you can easily create a cozy atmosphere for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 liters apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 4 inches long)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the ground nutmeg and ground cloves; stir well.
5. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick, if desired. Enjoy!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Warm up on a chilly day with this refreshing twist on classic hot chocolate. This Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream is the perfect treat to cozy up with.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including whipping time for whipped cream)
Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream!
Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg
Warm Up with a Rich Eggnog: Bourbon and Nutmeg Edition
Combine the classic flavors of eggnog with the warmth of bourbon and nutmeg for a delightful holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in nutmeg and bourbon whiskey (if using).
5. Strain the eggnog into a clean container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cranberry Orange Sparkler
Add a splash of festive cheer to your gatherings with this easy-to-make Cranberry Orange Sparkler! This bubbly drink combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry and orange juices.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the sparkling water.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with slices of orange.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Gingerbread Latte with Molasses
Warm up with a delicious Gingerbread Latte infused with the rich flavor of molasses!
Gingerbread Latte with Molasses Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in molasses and sugar until dissolved.
3. Add vanilla extract, if using.
4. Strain the latte into mugs to serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of spices to your liking.
– Use a darker molasses for a stronger flavor or a lighter one for a more subtle taste.
– Top with whipped cream and crushed nuts, if desired, for an extra-special treat!
Mulled Wine with Cloves and Star Anise
This classic winter drink is a perfect blend of warm spices and rich wine, sure to keep you cozy on chilly nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 cloves
– 1 tablespoon of whole star anise
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Honey or sugar, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cloves, and star anise.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced orange and lemon.
4. Reduce heat to low and let mulled wine simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired temperature.
5. Strain the spices from the wine and add honey or sugar to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
This fall-inspired spin on the classic White Russian combines the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the smooth richness of coffee liqueur and cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 ounce pumpkin-flavored syrup (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, and pumpkin-flavored syrup.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Top with heavy cream and stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla Ice Cream
Combine the comforting warmth of hot buttered rum with the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream for a indulgent treat on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add rum (if using), cinnamon, and nutmeg. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Serve the hot buttered rum in mugs. Top each mug with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Candy Cane Martini with Vodka
Add a festive twist to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and tangy Candy Cane Martini. Made with vodka, peppermint syrup, and crushed candy canes, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce peppermint syrup
– 1/2 ounce Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, peppermint syrup, and white chocolate liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Chai Tea Latte with Cardamom
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chai tea with the unique sweetness of cardamom, perfect for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and aromatic beverage to warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the tea leaves, cardamom, honey or sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the sweetener is dissolved.
3. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into a large mug. Discard the solids.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Apple Sangria
A refreshing twist on traditional sangria, this Caramel Apple Sangria combines the sweetness of caramel with the crispness of apples and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Sliced apples and caramel sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine, caramel sauce, apple cider, and chopped apple.
2. Add the broken cinnamon stick and stir to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced apples and caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Peppermint Mocha Coffee
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and invigorating peppermint mocha coffee recipe. Perfect for the holiday season or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee and pour into a large mug.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and peppermint extract until well combined.
3. Add the dry mixture to the coffee and stir until dissolved.
4. Heat milk in the microwave or on the stovetop until steaming hot.
5. Pour heated milk into the mug with the coffee and stir gently.
6. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spiked Eggnog Milkshake
Get ready to cozy up with a creamy, sweet, and boozy treat perfect for the holiday season! This Spiked Eggnog Milkshake combines the warmth of eggnog with the richness of vanilla ice cream and a hint of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup of eggnog
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1-2 ounces of bourbon (optional)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, eggnog, heavy cream, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. If desired, add bourbon and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold treat!
Enjoy your Spiked Eggnog Milkshake!
Pomegranate Champagne Punch
Elevate your gatherings with this refreshing Pomegranate Champagne Punch, perfect for warm weather celebrations and get-togethers. This fruity and bubbly concoction is sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of champagne
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup triple sec (or other orange-flavored liqueur)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced fresh limes, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large punch bowl or jug, combine pomegranate juice, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
2. Add triple sec and simple syrup; stir until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, pour in champagne and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and ladle the punch over the ice.
6. Garnish each glass with a slice of fresh lime.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate
This rich and creamy hot chocolate is elevated by the sweet and gooey goodness of toasted marshmallows. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Whipped cream and additional marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming.
2. Add cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. Place marshmallows on top of the hot chocolate and let them toast for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Stir to combine the toasted marshmallows with the hot chocolate.
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional marshmallows if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Hot Cocoa
Cozy up with a warm and comforting cup of Cinnamon Roll Hot Cocoa, perfect for the holiday season or any cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes, or until the hot cocoa has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, if using.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Peppermint Martini
A sweet and creamy twist on the classic martini, this White Chocolate Peppermint Martini is perfect for holiday gatherings or a special treat anytime. The combination of rich white chocolate and peppermint liqueur creates a unique and indulgent flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, heavy cream, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.
Cooking Time: None
Cranberry Gin Fizz
This refreshing cocktail is perfect for the holiday season, combining the tartness of cranberries with the crispness of gin and a hint of sweetness. With its festive red color, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with cranberry juice and club soda.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh or frozen cranberries.
Cooking Time: None (ready in 10 minutes)
Salted Caramel Irish Coffee
Rich and decadent, this Salted Caramel Irish Coffee combines the warmth of whiskey with the sweetness of caramel, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, melt the butter and sugar over low heat.
2. Add the brewed coffee and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the heavy cream and whiskey, stirring gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the sea salt over the top of the coffee.
5. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the salt, creating a swirly design.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy
Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy Recipe
Warm up with this comforting cocktail that combines the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup hot water (not boiling)
– Lemon slice or twist for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
2. Add the hot water to the mixture, but be careful not to overfill the mug.
3. Stir until the maple syrup is dissolved and the drink is well combined.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice or twist.
Cooking Time:
– 5 minutes (includes heating the water)
Note: You can adjust the amount of hot water to your desired strength, but be careful not to make it too weak or too strong. Enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 festive holiday drink recipes! From classic Spiced Apple Cider and Peppermint Hot Chocolate to creative twists like Pumpkin Spice White Russian and Salted Caramel Irish Coffee, there’s something for everyone. Warm up with Mulled Wine or Gingerbread Latte, or get your coffee fix with a Candy Cane Martini or Peppermint Mocha. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, these delicious drinks are sure to spread holiday cheer.