20 Festive Holiday Drink Recipes Delicious

Gather around, friends! The holiday season is the perfect time to warm up with a cozy, festive drink in hand. Whether you’re hosting a merry gathering or simply savoring the quiet moments by the fire, our roundup of 20 Festive Holiday Drink Recipes is sure to inspire. From creamy eggnog to spiced cider, these delightful concoctions will make your celebrations even more special. Let’s raise a glass to delicious memories!

Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks

Transform your cozy night in with this Spiced Apple Cider—warm, aromatic, and irresistibly comforting. Toss the basics together and let the magic happen.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tbsp whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Pour 4 cups of apple cider into a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tbsp whole cloves, and the sliced orange to the pot.
3. Stir in 1/4 cup brown sugar until fully dissolved.
4. Heat the mixture to 160°F, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes—do not boil to preserve flavors.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for another 5 minutes to infuse the spices.
6. Strain the cider into mugs to remove the solids, serving warm.

Make each sip a delight with the perfect balance of sweet and spice. Pair with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra aromatic touch or serve over ice for a refreshing twist.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream

Viral on every feed this season, this Peppermint Hot Chocolate is your cozy cup of joy. Bold flavors meet creamy textures in under 10 minutes—holiday magic in a mug.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 1 tbsp crushed peppermint candies

Instructions

1. Heat 2 cups whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 150°F, stirring occasionally to prevent scalding.
2. Whisk in 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/8 tsp salt until fully dissolved.
3. Remove from heat; stir in 1/2 tsp peppermint extract and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract for a balanced flavor.
4. In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form for the topping.
5. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle 1 tbsp crushed peppermint candies for crunch.

Decadent and smooth, this hot chocolate boasts a velvety texture with a refreshing peppermint kick. Serve with a candy cane stirrer for an extra festive touch or drizzle with chocolate syrup for added richness.

Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg

Unwrap the holiday spirit with this boozy twist on a classic. Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg is your creamy, dreamy ticket to festive bliss—ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Heat until just steaming, about 5 minutes—do not boil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
3. Temper the eggs by slowly pouring in the hot milk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in ground nutmeg, bourbon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to ensure a smooth texture.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Silky with a kick, this eggnog is a balance of sweet, spicy, and strong. Serve it over ice with a cinnamon stick or garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flair.

Cranberry Orange Sparkler

Jumpstart your holiday cheer with this Cranberry Orange Sparkler—a fizzy, festive drink that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Just a few ingredients and steps stand between you and your new favorite cocktail.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 1 cup sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slices for garnish
• Cranberries for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a glass to the top with ice cubes to ensure your drink stays chilled.
2. Pour 1 cup cranberry juice into the glass for a tart base.
3. Add 1/2 cup orange juice to balance the tartness with a sweet citrus note.
4. Stir in 1/4 cup simple syrup to sweeten the mix without overpowering the fruit flavors.
5. Top off with 1 cup sparkling water for that essential fizzy lift.
6. Gently stir once to combine all ingredients without losing the carbonation.
7. Garnish with orange slices and cranberries on a skewer for a festive touch.

Yield a drink that’s brilliantly balanced—tart cranberry, sweet orange, and bubbly sparkle in every sip. Serve it in a sugar-rimmed glass for an extra sweet edge or with a cinnamon stick for a spicy twist.

Gingerbread Latte with Molasses

Let’s spice up your coffee game with a Gingerbread Latte that’s bold, sweet, and utterly irresistible. This isn’t just any latte—it’s a holiday hug in a mug, with molasses adding a deep, rich sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 cup whole milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming, about 3 minutes. Do not boil.
2. Whisk in 1 tbsp molasses, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg until fully combined.
3. Pour 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee into a large mug, then add the spiced milk mixture. Tip: For extra froth, use a milk frother before combining.
4. Stir in 1 tbsp granulated sugar until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an Instagram-worthy finish. Tip: Lightly torch the whipped cream for a smoky flavor.

Rich in flavor with a velvety texture, this Gingerbread Latte is a cozy masterpiece. Serve it with a gingerbread cookie on the side for dipping, or drizzle with extra molasses for a decadent twist.

Mulled Wine with Cloves and Star Anise

Here’s how to whip up a cozy batch of mulled wine that’ll spice up your winter nights. Heat it, sip it, love it—no fancy skills needed.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 2 star anise
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Pour the red wine into a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1/2 cup water to the pot to prevent the wine from reducing too much.
3. Stir in 1/4 cup honey until fully dissolved.
4. Drop in 2 cinnamon sticks, 5 whole cloves, and 2 star anise.
5. Add sliced orange to the pot for a citrusy kick.
6. Heat the mixture until it reaches 160°F, stirring occasionally—never let it boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
8. Strain the mulled wine into mugs, discarding the solids.

Get ready for a warm, spiced aroma that fills the room. The honey softens the wine’s edge, while the spices add a festive punch. Garnish with a fresh orange slice or cinnamon stick for an Instagram-worthy touch.

Pumpkin Spice White Russian

Ditch the basic drinks and shake up your fall with this Pumpkin Spice White Russian. It’s creamy, spiced, and ridiculously easy to make—perfect for those cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ice
• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice to chill the ingredients properly.
2. Pour 2 oz vodka and 1 oz coffee liqueur into the shaker for the classic White Russian base.
3. Add 1 tbsp pumpkin puree and 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice to infuse that autumnal flavor.
4. Drizzle in 1 tsp vanilla extract for a sweet, aromatic twist.
5. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to blend all the flavors and chill the mixture.
6. Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice to keep it cool without diluting the taste.
7. Gently float 1 oz heavy cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon for that signature layered look.
8. Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top for a festive finish.

Rich and velvety, this cocktail marries the warmth of pumpkin spice with the boldness of coffee liqueur. Serve it with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra aromatic touch.

Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla Ice Cream

Absolutely nothing beats the cozy kick of Hot Buttered Rum, especially when it’s topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into boozy, buttery bliss.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 2 oz dark rum
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream

Instructions

1. In a heatproof mug, combine 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp ground cloves.
2. Pour 2 oz dark rum into the mug and stir vigorously until the butter and sugar are fully dissolved.
3. Carefully add 3/4 cup boiling water to the mug, stirring continuously to blend all ingredients smoothly.
4. Top the drink with 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt slightly into the hot mixture for a creamy texture.
5. Serve immediately, ensuring the drink is hot and the ice cream is just beginning to melt for the perfect contrast.

Every sip delivers a warm, spiced hug with a cool, creamy finish. Try garnishing with a cinnamon stick for an extra aromatic touch or serving it alongside gingerbread cookies for a festive twist.

Candy Cane Martini with Vodka

Pour yourself into the holiday spirit with this Candy Cane Martini—a festive, peppermint-packed punch that’s as fun to make as it is to sip. Perfect for shaking up your seasonal gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz white crème de cacao
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• 1 candy cane (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Chill a martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes to ensure it’s frosty.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz vodka, 1 oz peppermint schnapps, and 1 oz white crème de cacao.
3. Add 1/2 cup crushed ice to the shaker for a smooth, chilled blend.
4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
5. Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass, avoiding any ice shards for a silky texture.
6. Garnish with a candy cane by hanging it on the rim of the glass for a festive touch.

Unwrap the vibrant layers of peppermint and creamy cocoa in every sip. Serve with a side of holiday cheer or as a sweet finale to your festive feast.

Chai Tea Latte with Cardamom

Zesty and aromatic, this Chai Tea Latte with Cardamom is your next kitchen adventure. Bold flavors meet creamy texture in under 10 minutes—let’s dive in.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 2 black tea bags
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Boil 2 cups water in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until bubbles form, about 3 minutes.
2. Add 2 black tea bags to the boiling water, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes to steep the tea.
3. Remove tea bags and stir in 1 tsp ground cardamom, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, and 2 tbsp honey until fully dissolved.
4. Pour in 1 cup whole milk and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract. Heat on medium until the mixture is hot but not boiling, about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Froth the latte with a milk frother or whisk until creamy and slightly bubbly, about 30 seconds.
6. Strain the latte into two mugs to remove any spice granules for a smooth texture.

Just like that, you’ve got a spiced, creamy Chai Tea Latte with Cardamom. The cardamom adds a floral punch, while the honey sweetens it just right. Serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra cozy touch.

Caramel Apple Sangria

Fall into flavor with this Caramel Apple Sangria—a crisp, spiced twist on the classic that’s perfect for sipping under the autumn sky. Mix, chill, and serve for a crowd-pleasing drink that’s as easy as it is irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup caramel vodka
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup club soda

Instructions

1. Combine white wine, apple cider, caramel vodka, and lemon juice in a large pitcher.
2. Add sliced apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher.
3. Stir the mixture gently to mix the ingredients.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Pour in club soda just before serving to add a fizzy lift.
6. Serve over ice in glasses garnished with additional apple slices and a cinnamon stick.

This sangria bursts with the crispness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon, creating a balanced sip that’s both refreshing and cozy. Elevate your presentation by rimming glasses with caramel and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch.

Peppermint Mocha Coffee

Unwrap the holiday spirit with this Peppermint Mocha Coffee—bold, creamy, and irresistibly festive. Perfect for chilly mornings or as a sweet nightcap.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tbsp whipped cream
• 1 tsp crushed peppermint candies

Instructions

1. Brew 1 cup of strong coffee using your preferred method.
2. In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat until steaming, about 3 minutes—do not boil.
3. Stir in 2 tbsp chocolate syrup and 1/4 tsp peppermint extract into the hot milk until fully combined.
4. Pour the chocolate-mint milk mixture into the brewed coffee, stirring gently to blend.
5. Top the drink with 1 tbsp whipped cream and sprinkle 1 tsp crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive finish.

This Peppermint Mocha Coffee delivers a velvety texture with a refreshing minty kick. Try serving it with a candy cane stirrer for an extra holiday touch.

Spiked Eggnog Milkshake

Craving something creamy, boozy, and utterly indulgent? This spiked eggnog milkshake blends holiday nostalgia with a grown-up twist—perfect for sipping by the fire or blasting through your feed.

Ingredients

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

1. Scoop 2 cups of vanilla ice cream into a blender.
2. Pour in 1 cup of eggnog and 1/4 cup of bourbon.
3. Add 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg and 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract.
4. Blend on high speed for 30 seconds, or until smooth. Tip: For a thicker shake, freeze your glass for 10 minutes before blending.
5. Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
6. Blend for another 10 seconds. Tip: If the shake is too thick, add a tablespoon of eggnog at a time until desired consistency is reached.
7. Pour into a chilled glass and top with whipped cream. Tip: Garnish with a light sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.

Get ready for a velvety sip that’s rich with vanilla and spice, with just the right kick from bourbon. Serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer or drizzle with caramel for extra decadence.

Pomegranate Champagne Punch

Get ready to dazzle your taste buds with this Pomegranate Champagne Punch—bright, bubbly, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for celebrations or just because, it’s a showstopper in a glass.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tbsp simple syrup
• 1 bottle (750ml) champagne, chilled
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine 1 cup pomegranate juice, 1/2 cup vodka, 1/4 cup lime juice, and 2 tbsp simple syrup. Stir well to mix.
2. Add 1 cup pomegranate seeds and thinly sliced lime to the pitcher for a vibrant look and fresh flavor.
3. Just before serving, gently pour in 1 bottle of chilled champagne to keep the bubbles lively.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the punch over the ice for a refreshing chill.
5. Garnish each glass with a few extra pomegranate seeds and a lime slice on the rim for an Instagram-worthy finish.

Juicy pomegranate seeds pop with each sip, while the champagne adds a light, effervescent touch. Serve in clear glasses to showcase the stunning ruby hue, or add edible gold flakes for a luxe twist.

Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate

Ready to level up your cozy game? This Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate is your ticket to sweet, smoky bliss. Grab your mug—it’s time to dive in.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 large marshmallows

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 tsp salt over medium heat.
2. Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to simmer, about 5 minutes. Tip: Avoid boiling to prevent a skin from forming on the milk.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs.
5. Place 2 large marshmallows on top of each mug.
6. Using a kitchen torch, toast the marshmallows until golden brown, about 30 seconds. Tip: No torch? Broil in the oven for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
7. Serve immediately. Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle with cocoa powder before toasting the marshmallows.

Gooey, toasted marshmallows melt into the rich, velvety chocolate for a drink that’s irresistibly creamy. Try serving it with a cinnamon stick stirrer for a hint of spice.

Cinnamon Roll Hot Cocoa

Dive into the ultimate winter comfort with this Cinnamon Roll Hot Cocoa—swirls of sweet, spiced perfection in every sip.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cinnamon roll pieces
• Whipped cream for topping
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream over medium heat. Heat until steaming but not boiling, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Whisk in 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon until fully dissolved.
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/4 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 cup cinnamon roll pieces. Simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to melt the cinnamon roll pieces.
4. Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream and garnish with cinnamon sticks.

Unbelievably creamy with a spicy-sweet kick, this hot cocoa is a game-changer. Serve it with extra cinnamon roll pieces on the side for dipping or drizzle with caramel for an extra decadent touch.

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini

Absolutely electrify your holiday gatherings with this creamy, minty cocktail that’s as festive as it is indulgent.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup ice
• 1 candy cane, crushed
• 1 sprig fresh mint, for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill a martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to ensure it’s frosty.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz white chocolate liqueur, 1 oz peppermint schnapps, and 1/2 cup heavy cream.
3. Add 1 cup ice to the shaker, securing the lid tightly.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
5. Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass, using a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice chips.
6. Sprinkle the crushed candy cane over the top of the drink for a festive crunch.
7. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint on the rim of the glass for an aromatic finish.

This martini delivers a velvety texture with a bold peppermint punch, perfect for sipping by the fireplace. Try rimming the glass with melted white chocolate and crushed candy canes for an extra decadent touch.

Salted Caramel Irish Coffee

Craving a cozy yet bold drink? This Salted Caramel Irish Coffee blends rich coffee, smooth whiskey, and sweet caramel for a decadent sip. Perfect for chilly mornings or festive nights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup hot brewed coffee
• 1.5 oz Irish whiskey
• 1 tbsp salted caramel sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions

1. Brew 1 cup of coffee using your preferred method. Keep it hot.
2. In a mug, combine the hot coffee, 1.5 oz Irish whiskey, and 1 tbsp salted caramel sauce. Stir until the caramel dissolves completely.
3. In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream with 1 tsp granulated sugar until soft peaks form. Tip: Chill the bowl and whisk for faster whipping.
4. Gently layer the whipped cream over the coffee mixture. Tip: Pour the cream over the back of a spoon to create a clean layer.
5. Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce on top for extra flavor and presentation. Tip: Warm the caramel slightly for easier drizzling.
6. Serve immediately. For a chilled version, let the coffee cool, then pour over ice before adding the whipped cream.

The whipped cream melts slightly into the hot coffee, creating a creamy, velvety texture. The salted caramel adds a sweet-salty kick that balances the whiskey’s warmth. Try serving with a cinnamon stick for an aromatic twist.

Summary

Magical moments await with these 20 Festive Holiday Drink Recipes! Whether you’re hosting a party or cozying up by the fire, there’s a delicious drink for every occasion. We’d love to hear which recipes become your favorites—leave a comment below. Don’t forget to share the joy by pinning this article on Pinterest. Cheers to a flavorful holiday season!

Louise Cutler

I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.