5 must-try Christmas cocktails and mocktails
Christmas is the season to eat, drink, and be merry, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than with a glass of something special. Whether hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, these Christmas-inspired cocktails and mocktails are perfect for adding holiday cheer. Here are five must-try recipes to elevate your celebrations.
1. Classic eggnog (Cocktail)
No Christmas drink list is complete without eggnog. This creamy, spiced cocktail is a holiday favourite, rich with festive flavours.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup dark rum (or bourbon)
Nutmeg and cinnamon for garnish
Instructions:
- Whisk eggs and sugar until frothy.
- Gradually mix in milk and cream, then stir in the rum.
- Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve in a glass, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon.
Mocktail Alternative: Skip the rum and add a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
2. Cranberry orange mimosa (Cocktail)
This vibrant, bubbly cocktail is perfect for Christmas morning brunch or toasting the season.
Ingredients:
- 1 part cranberry juice
- 1 part orange juice
- 2 parts champagne or prosecco
- Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a champagne flute halfway with cranberry juice and orange juice.
- Top with chilled champagne or prosecco.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange.
Mocktail Alternative: Replace champagne with sparkling apple cider or club soda.
3. Spiced apple cider punch (Mocktail)
This warm and fragrant drink is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cosy gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- Orange slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine apple cider, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a pot.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, then strain.
- Serve warm, garnished with an orange slice.
Add a shot of spiced rum to individual servings for an adult twist.
4. Peppermint White Russian (Cocktail)
This creamy cocktail combines coffee and mint for a festive twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz vodka
- 2 oz cream or milk
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice and pour in coffee liqueur and vodka.
- Top with cream and stir gently.
- Rim the glass with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Mocktail Alternative: Replace coffee liqueur with cold brew coffee and skip the vodka.
5. Pomegranate ginger spritzer (Mocktail)
This sparkling, tart and slightly spicy mocktail is perfect for non-drinkers and looks stunning.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- ½ cup ginger ale
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Fresh pomegranate seeds and mint for garnish
Instructions:
- Mix pomegranate juice, ginger ale, and sparkling water in a pitcher.
- Serve over ice in a glass.
- Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and a sprig of mint.
For an alcoholic twist, add a splash of vodka or gin.
Cheers to the holidays!
Which one will you try first?
