6 Festive Holiday Cocktails
Festive Holiday Cocktails: Ah, the holidays! That magical time of year when we deck the halls, roast chestnuts (or just pretend we know what those are), and spend hours untangling the same string of lights that worked perfectly fine last year. Whether you’re hosting the whole family, braving a friends’ white elephant exchange, or just chilling with your favorite holiday movie, one thing’s for sure: you need a drink.
But not just any drink! We’re talking festive cocktails — the kind that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, even before the whiskey kicks in. Here are five cocktails that are as merry and bright as the holidays themselves.
1. Cranberry Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
The cocktail equivalent of a cozy scarf.
This isn’t your average whiskey sour—it’s the holiday glow-up version. Start with bourbon, add fresh cranberry juice, a squeeze of lemon, and a cinnamon simple syrup. Shake it up, pour it over ice, and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a few cranberries. It’s tart, spicy, and feels like a holiday hug in a glass.
Perfect for:
Warming up after caroling, or just convincing your friends you’re a mixology genius.
2. Butter Pecan Old-Fashioned
Like your grandma’s pecan pie, but boozy.
Take the classic Old-Fashioned and give it a nutty, buttery twist. Start with bourbon (obviously), stir in a butter pecan syrup, and finish with a dash of orange bitters. Garnish with a candied pecan or a twist of orange. It’s smooth, decadent, and basically dessert in a glass.
Perfect for:
Impressing the in-laws, or just yourself—because you’re worth it.
3. Campari Margarita
Holidays, but make them spicy.
Who says margaritas are just for summer? Swap out triple sec for Campari, and you’ve got a cocktail that’s zesty, bitter, and full of holiday spirit. Mix tequila, Campari, lime juice, and a hint of agave for balance. Rim the glass with salt and a pinch of chili powder for a little kick.
Perfect for:
Adding a tropical twist to your winter wonderland (and showing off your margarita-making skills).
4. The Siesta Cocktail
Because even Santa needs a break.
This vibrant cocktail is like a mini vacation in the middle of the holiday madness. Start with tequila, add grapefruit juice, lime juice, and Campari, and sweeten it up with simple syrup. Shake it with ice and serve it straight up. It’s citrusy, bittersweet, and the perfect palate cleanser between all those holiday cookies.
Perfect for:
Daydreaming about warm beaches while the snow piles up outside.
5. Manhattan
Classic, elegant, and a little mysterious—like your favorite aunt.
The Manhattan never goes out of style, much like that sparkly sweater you’ve been saving for this year’s party. Stir rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters with ice, then strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry and feel instantly classier with every sip.
Perfect for:
Toasting to the end of another year while plotting your New Year’s resolutions (or ignoring them entirely).
6. Glühwein
The ultimate holiday crowd-pleaser.
Ah, Glühwein, the cozy mug of spiced wine that says, “Let’s celebrate, but also, let’s relax.” Heat up your favorite red wine with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, orange slices, and a splash of brandy or rum. Let it simmer until your whole house smells like a holiday wonderland. Bonus: It’s easy to make in big batches for your guests.
Perfect for:
Serving at your holiday party—or just sipping while binge-watching Elf for the 10th time.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Pappardelle Mushroom Pasta
- Creamy Tomatoes Burrata Pasta
- Spinach Ricotta Gnudi
- Mushroom Wafu Pasta with Soy Butter Sauce
- Spaghetti All’Assassina (Assassin’s Spaghetti)u
Sip, Relax, and Be Merry!
Whether you’re shaking, stirring, or just pouring, these festive cocktails are guaranteed to bring the holiday cheer. So grab your favorite glass, put on some Mariah Carey, and toast to a season filled with love, laughter, and a little extra whiskey.
Which one are you trying first? Let us know in the comments—or invite us over to taste-test. Cheers to a festive (and delicious) holiday season! 🍸🎄
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