Top 15 Christmas Day Cocktail Recipes
Christmas is all about warmth, togetherness, and a bit of sparkle, and there's no better way to bring that spirit into your home than with a round of holiday cocktails!
As a bartender, I’ve seen how even the simplest drinks can turn a casual gathering into something memorable. (for better and for worse). But today I’m here to help you create some crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make Christmas cocktails that’ll leave your guests asking for seconds.
Whether you're a seasoned home bartender or new to mixing drinks, these recipes are designed to make you feel confident and festive. Let’s dive into my top 15 Christmas day cocktail recipes and tips.
If you're looking for a festive, fun, and eye-catching drink for your next Christmas party, then you’re going to love Grinch Punch.
Inspired by everyone's favorite holiday villain-turned-hero, this vibrant green punch is sweet, tangy, and packed with holiday spirit.
If you love coconut, this drink will be your new Christmas go-to.
It’s easy to make, perfectly creamy, and full of coconut, White chocolate, rum., and vanilla ice cream. This is the Mele Kalikimaka of the cocktail world.
This twist on the classic Espresso Martini combines spiced rum with coffee and easy-to-make-at-home gingerbread syrup for a delightful festive Espresso Martini perfect for winter, Christmas, and December drinking.
The Blue Christmas Cocktail.... a vibrant, delicious, and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for adding a little flair to your Christmas celebrations.
If you’re looking for a fun, festive cocktail to enjoy at your next holiday gathering, the Mistletoe Mule is the perfect choice.
It’s a cheerful twist on the classic Moscow Mule, with fresh holiday flavors that’ll keep everyone in the spirit.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a beginner in the kitchen, the Tipsy Snowman is easy to make and guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
The best part? It’s got that perfect combination of sweetness, creaminess, and a bit of booze that makes it feel like a warm hug in a glass.
Check out this ultimate guide to butterbeer which includes the OG Butterbeer recipe that captures the essence of J.K. Rowling's magical creation with Vanilla Vodka, Butterscotch Schnapps and Cream Soda.
For our underage wizards and non-drinkers, fear not! You can still experience the magic without the spirits.
Hot butterbeer which is perfect for cozying up on the sofa binge watching Harry Potter with the classic flavors and addition of warming spices. Authentic butterbeer recipe frozen for a summer twist.
As a sidenote, pretty much any one of these Harry Potter cocktails will fit the bill for a Christmas party.
This cocktail combines the rich, smooth flavors of whiskey with a touch of sweetness and spice, making it an ideal drink for sipping by the fire or serving at your next Christmas party.
Don't call it a day on the Aperol Spritz just because its winter.
Here's how to make the festive version so you can still enjoy your favorite cocktail all year long.
This White Christmas Margarita combines the classic margarita flavors we all know and love with a festive twist, perfect for your Christmas parties and holiday gatherings.
The best ever and easiest mulled wine recipe you will come across. Period.
Once you’ve mastered it check out the smoking bishop or my signature non-alcoholic mulled wine.
My best ever easy-to-make at home alcoholic mulled cider recipe.
Including my non-alcoholic mulled cider variation, boozy rum mulled cider, and video recipe.
The creamy Christmas classic is much easier to make at home then you might think. With a rich history to match a rich flavour, it's well worth giving a try!
Then once you’ve mastered the classic check out my bourbon eggnog and my chocolate eggnog.
The best hot toddy recipe to elevate your winter nights.
Learn how to craft the ideal hot toddy drink with our simple guide.
Explore the comforting warmth of hot toddies and uncover their surprising benefits for colds and coughs.
Decadent Orange and Coffee Boozy Hot Chocolate recipe. Immerse yourself in the rich fusion of velvety cocoa, zesty orange, and bold coffee flavors, creating a symphony of taste that's nothing short of extraordinary.
This indulgent treat is not just a beverage; it's a luxurious escape for your senses. Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Setting Up Your Home Bar for Christmas Cocktails
Before you start mixing, it helps to have your bar basics and a few special holiday ingredients on hand. I always say a well-stocked home bar doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Just a few key items can make all the difference.
Key Ingredients to Keep Handy
For holiday cocktails, you’ll want some common spirits like vodka, rum, and gin. These are versatile bases that can work in a range of drinks, from the classic to the unexpected.
For Christmas, consider adding a few seasonal touches:
Peppermint Schnapps or Crème de Menthe: These bring that candy cane flavor and make anything feel more Christmas-y.
Cranberry Liqueur or Juice: It’s bright, festive, and easy to pair with most spirits.
Maple Syrup and Honey: These add warmth and depth to winter cocktails, a little sweeter and cozier than simple syrup.
Spices and Extracts: A dash of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or nutmeg can turn even a basic drink into a holiday masterpiece.
Special Garnishes that Make All the Difference
When it comes to cocktails, garnishes are more than just a pretty touch. They add aroma, color, and a bit of fun. Stock up on:
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: These smell like Christmas trees and look great in nearly any holiday drink.
Cranberries: Drop a few fresh or frozen cranberries into a drink for instant holiday cheer.
Cinnamon Sticks and Candy Canes: Great for stirring or garnishing, these add both flavor and festivity.
One of my favorite tricks is to rim glasses with crushed candy canes. Especially for drinks like peppermint martinis. It’s a simple touch that makes a big impact.
You can also look into small Christmas bakes and snacks which could double up as garnishes for drinks. Such as mini gingerbread men or snowball chocolates.
Classic Christmas Cocktails with a Twist
Nothing says holiday gathering like a familiar cocktail with a little twist. These are classics with a hint of holiday flavor to give them that Christmas Day upgrade.
Christmas Old Fashioned
An Old Fashioned is always a hit, especially when you add a bit of festive flair. Here’s how to make a Christmas version that’s warm, a little sweet, and beautifully aromatic.
Recipe: Combine 2 oz bourbon, a dash of cranberry bitters, and a teaspoon of maple syrup. Stir with ice, and strain into a rocks glass.
Garnish: Use an orange peel, a sprig of rosemary, and a few cranberries.
A little story here—last Christmas, I served this to my family, and even my uncle, who usually drinks only beer, was asking for a second round. The maple syrup adds a sweetness that’s rich and wintery without being overpowering.
Peppermint White Russian
If you love creamy, dessert-like cocktails, you’ll love this Peppermint White Russian. It’s easy, indulgent, and has that peppermint punch that makes it feel like Christmas in a glass.
Recipe: In a glass with ice, pour 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz peppermint schnapps (or crème de menthe), then top with cream.
Garnish: Crushed candy cane or a mini candy cane as a stirrer.
This one is great to serve after dinner. It’s almost like a dessert on its own, and you don’t need a blender or any special equipment, just pour, stir, and you’re good to go!
Hot Buttered Rum
Nothing says cozy quite like a hot buttered rum. Imagine sipping on this as you’re sitting by the fire, watching the Christmas lights twinkle. It’s creamy, spiced, and full of holiday warmth.
Recipe: Mix 1 oz of dark rum with a spoonful of butter, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon. Top with hot water and stir until smooth.
Making the butter batter for this drink is simple, you just mix softened butter with brown sugar and a few holiday spices. It keeps in the fridge, so you can have a little ready whenever you want a warm treat.
Crowd-Pleasing Christmas Punch Recipes
If you’re hosting a crowd, punches are perfect. They’re easy to make, refillable, and let you spend more time with your guests instead of mixing drinks all night.
Sparkling Cranberry Punch
This one is bright, bubbly, and easy to make in a big bowl. It’s like a mimosa meets cranberry sauce, and it goes great with everything from brunch to dessert.
Recipe: Combine 1 bottle of champagne or prosecco with 2 cups cranberry juice and a splash of orange liqueur.
Garnish: Fresh cranberries and orange slices.
I love this recipe because it’s simple but feels like you went all out. Plus, if you want a non-alcoholic option, you can just use sparkling water or a splash of ginger ale instead of champagne.
Christmas Mocktails for All Ages
Not everyone drinks alcohol, so having a couple of festive mocktails on hand is always a good idea. These recipes let everyone join in on the holiday cheer.
Candy Cane Mocktail
This mocktail is creamy, minty, and just as fun as any cocktail. It’s great for kids or anyone who wants to keep things non-alcoholic.
Recipe: Mix 1 cup milk with a few drops of peppermint extract and a tablespoon of crushed candy cane. Shake with ice and strain into a glass.
Serve it in a glass rimmed with crushed candy cane for an extra special touch, it’s simple, but it makes everyone smile.
Gingerbread Sparkler
If you want something a bit spicier, this mocktail hits the spot. It’s fizzy, festive, and has that cozy gingerbread feel.
Recipe: Combine ginger ale with a splash of vanilla and a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. Serve over ice.
Tips for Serving Your Holiday Cocktails
Here are a few tricks to make things easier so you can enjoy the day along with everyone else:
Batch Your Drinks: Pre-make cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Peppermint White Russians in a pitcher so you’re not shaking drinks all night.
Garnish in Advance: Have garnishes ready before guests arrive. This makes everything feel more polished with minimal effort.
Enjoy the Process: Christmas is about sharing and celebrating, so don’t worry too much about being perfect, just have fun with it!
Merry Christmas, and here’s to a joyful, delicious holiday! Cheers!
Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more recipes like it. I share only vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and mindful drinking. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
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