Festive & Delicious: Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Drink Recipes for Every Celebration
The holiday season is a truly special time, brimming with warmth, cheer, and the joy of togetherness. As twinkling lights adorn our homes and festive music fills the air, there’s a unique magic that only this time of year can bring. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration, an intimate family dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the crackling fireplace, the perfect drink can elevate the experience, making every moment more memorable and every gathering more festive.
This year, we’ve curated an unparalleled collection of holiday drink recipes designed to suit every taste and occasion. From comforting warm beverages that ward off winter chills to sparkling, sophisticated cocktails that add a touch of glamour to your New Year’s Eve bash, our round-up offers a diverse range of options. Get ready to explore classic holiday staples, discover innovative new concoctions, and find plenty of inspiration to craft a truly unforgettable beverage menu for your friends and family.
Cozy & Comforting Warm Holiday Drinks
Nothing says “holidays” quite like a steaming mug of a richly flavored beverage. These warm holiday drinks are perfect for welcoming guests in from the cold, enjoying during a festive movie night, or simply savoring a quiet moment. They fill your home with irresistible aromas and provide a comforting embrace that embodies the spirit of the season.
White Pear and Apple Sangria // A Cedar Spoon
While sangria is often enjoyed chilled, this delightful White Pear and Apple Sangria offers a surprising twist. Gently warmed, its fragrant blend of crisp pears, sweet apples, and white wine transforms into a wonderfully aromatic and comforting drink, making it a unique and lighter alternative to heavier mulled beverages for your holiday spread.
Spiked Mulled Apple Cider // Dieters Downfall
Embrace the quintessential flavors of the season with this robust Spiked Mulled Apple Cider. Infused with a harmonious blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, and given a festive boost with your favorite spirit, it’s a fragrant and comforting drink that will instantly transport your guests to a winter wonderland. Perfect for a brisk evening gathering.
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine // The View from Great Island
A timeless classic made incredibly easy, this Slow Cooker Mulled Wine is a must-have for holiday entertaining. Simmering red wine with a medley of citrus fruits, spices, and a touch of sweetness creates a rich, aromatic, and deeply warming beverage. The slow cooker keeps it hot and allows guests to serve themselves, freeing you up to mingle.
Cinnamon Roll Hot Cocoa // Wine & Glue
Indulge your sweet tooth with this inventive Cinnamon Roll Hot Cocoa. It takes your favorite cozy chocolate drink and infuses it with the sweet, comforting flavors of a freshly baked cinnamon roll. Topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, it’s a decadent treat that will be adored by both children and adults.
Ginger Snap Cookie Steamer // Food Faith Fitness
Capture the essence of classic holiday cookies in a soothing, warm drink with this Ginger Snap Cookie Steamer. Its delightful blend of spicy ginger and sweet molasses creates a unique and incredibly comforting non-alcoholic option. It’s perfect for those seeking a festive treat without the alcohol, offering a distinct and memorable flavor profile.
Slow Cooker Apple Chai // Farm Fresh Feasts
Merge the best of two beloved warm beverages with this Slow Cooker Apple Chai. The aromatic spices of traditional chai tea perfectly complement the sweet tang of apple cider, creating a comforting and unique drink that’s ideal for serving a crowd. Its inviting aroma will fill your home with holiday cheer.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate // Lemons for Lulu
Extend the beloved flavors of pumpkin spice into your winter celebrations with this rich Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate. The earthy sweetness of pumpkin, paired with classic fall spices and decadent chocolate, makes this an irresistible and supremely comforting beverage. It’s a fantastic option for a chilly night or a festive morning treat.
Slow Cooker Eggnog Lattes // The Magical Slow Cooker
Combine the creamy indulgence of eggnog with the comforting warmth of a latte, all prepared with the convenience of a slow cooker. This rich and festive drink is ideal for holiday brunches or a delightful evening treat, offering a luxurious and fuss-free twist on traditional eggnog that your guests will adore.
Cardamom Spiced Apple Cider // The Joyful Foodie
Elevate classic apple cider with the exotic and fragrant spice of cardamom. This recipe offers a sophisticated and incredibly aromatic take on a holiday favorite, creating a warm and inviting drink that’s perfect for sipping slowly by the fire. It’s a unique flavor profile that will surely intrigue and delight your guests.
Mulled Wine // The Joyful Foodie
For a more traditional and robust rendition of the classic, this Mulled Wine recipe promises a deeply flavorful and aromatic experience. With a harmonious blend of quality red wine, holiday spices, and bright citrus, it’s a timeless choice for any festive gathering, offering warmth and cheer in every comforting sip.
Sparkling & Sophisticated Holiday Cocktails
When the occasion calls for a bit of sparkle, glamour, and a touch of adult sophistication, these holiday cocktails are your go-to. Perfect for toasting, mingling, and adding a vibrant touch to your festive parties, they promise to impress with their elegant presentation and delightful flavors.
The Frozen Turkey // The View from Great Island
Despite its whimsical name, “The Frozen Turkey” is a deliciously potent and uniquely refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for kicking off your holiday celebrations. Its frosty texture and complex flavors make it a memorable drink for guests seeking something a bit out of the ordinary, ensuring your party stands out.
Cherry Cocktails // Super Healthy Kids
While designed for a healthier approach, these Cherry Cocktails can be easily adapted into a stunning festive adult beverage. The vibrant red color and delightful sweet-tart cherry flavor make it visually appealing and incredibly refreshing. A splash of sparkling wine or vodka can transform this into a brilliant holiday toast.
Cranberry Mimosas // In Good Taste
Add a splash of festive color and effervescence to your holiday brunch or evening soiree with these gorgeous Cranberry Mimosas. The crisp tartness of cranberry juice beautifully complements the delicate bubbles of sparkling wine, creating an elegant, ruby-red drink that’s both simple to prepare and wonderfully chic. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
Pomegranate Sangria // In Good Taste
Infuse your sangria with the deep, jewel-toned beauty and sweet-tart complexity of pomegranate. This festive Pomegranate Sangria is bursting with fresh fruit flavors and can be prepared well in advance, making it an ideal choice for entertaining. Its rich, inviting color makes it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table.
Earl Grey French 75 // With Food + Love
A sophisticated and innovative take on the classic French 75, this version introduces the delicate, fragrant notes of Earl Grey tea. The result is an exceptionally elegant, refreshing, and subtly complex cocktail that’s perfect for a refined holiday gathering or a stylish New Year’s Eve countdown. It’s a delightful surprise for the palate.
Champagne Margaritas // The Kitchen is My Playground
Combine the celebratory fizz of champagne with the zesty, vibrant kick of a classic margarita for a truly unique and festive holiday cocktail. These Champagne Margaritas are bright, bubbly, and offer a refreshing departure from traditional heavy holiday drinks. They are perfect for a lively toast or a fun party starter.
Peppermint Cookietini Cocktail // Snappy Gourmet
Indulge in the festive flavors of peppermint and cookies encapsulated in this delightful Peppermint Cookietini Cocktail. It’s a sweet, wonderfully minty, and creamy concoction that captures the essence of holiday treats in a sophisticated martini glass. This is the perfect dessert cocktail or a decadent pre-dinner sip.
Red Velvet Hot Chocolate Cocktail // Snappy Gourmet
Experience the luxurious flavors of red velvet cake transformed into an indulgent cocktail. This rich and decadent drink combines the comforting notes of hot chocolate with the distinctive sweet tang of red velvet, creating an irresistible adult beverage that’s perfect for a cozy, celebratory evening. A true treat for the senses.
Harvest Sangria // EverydayMaven
Celebrate the bounty of the season with this robust Harvest Sangria. Packed with the vibrant flavors of fall and early winter fruits, this wine-based punch is perfect for a crowd, offering a delightful blend of sweetness, spice, and warmth. It’s incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your favorite seasonal produce.
Roasted Butternut Bourbon // Ari’s Menu
For a truly unique and surprisingly sophisticated holiday drink, try this Roasted Butternut Bourbon. The subtle sweetness and earthy notes of roasted butternut squash, infused with the warmth of bourbon, create a wonderfully complex and intriguing cocktail. It’s an adventurous choice for whiskey connoisseurs looking for a seasonal twist.
S’mores Hot Cocoa // Ari’s Menu
Bring the beloved campfire favorite indoors with this utterly indulgent S’mores Hot Cocoa. Complete with rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and hints of graham cracker flavors, it’s a fun, whimsical, and deeply comforting drink that’s perfect for families and adults alike. A cozy and nostalgic treat for chilly holiday nights.
S’more Martini // Baked by Rachel
Elevate the classic s’mores experience to an adult cocktail with this luxurious S’more Martini. It’s a sweet, creamy, and utterly decadent drink that perfectly captures the flavors of toasted marshmallow, rich chocolate, and a delicate hint of graham cracker. A playful yet sophisticated choice for your holiday dessert table or a memorable party sip.
French 75 // Karen’s Kitchen Stories
The timeless French 75, a delightful blend of gin, fresh lemon juice, a touch of sugar, and crisp champagne, is an impeccable choice for any festive celebration. Its effervescent and bright citrus flavors make it an elegant and refreshing alternative to richer holiday drinks, perfect for Christmas Eve or ringing in the New Year.
Strawberry + Moonshine // Dessert for Two
For a bold and intensely fruity cocktail, this Strawberry Moonshine concoction is surprisingly delicious and spirited. The natural sweetness of fresh strawberries beautifully complements the potent kick of moonshine, creating a vibrant and adventurous drink. It’s a fun, unexpected choice for those looking to try something new this holiday season.
Fall Sangria // Dessert for Two
Similar to the Harvest Sangria, this Fall Sangria recipe emphasizes the rich, earthy, and sweet fruits of the autumn and early winter seasons. It’s a wonderful make-ahead option that allows flavors to meld beautifully, offering a refreshing yet comforting drink that’s perfect for a gathering around your holiday table.
Brandy Slush // Savvy Eats
A classic for many, Brandy Slush is a wonderfully refreshing, icy cocktail that delivers a delightful punch. Its sweet, tangy citrus flavor, combined with the warming notes of brandy, makes it a surprisingly festive and invigorating choice, especially for those seeking a chilled alcoholic option to complement rich holiday meals.
Chai Liqueurs // Savvy Eats
Elevate your home bar with artisanal homemade Chai Liqueurs. These creamy, richly spiced liqueurs can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or as a unique addition to coffee, hot chocolate, and other cocktails. They bring an exotic warmth and depth of flavor to your holiday celebrations, making a thoughtful gift or a special treat.
Peppermint S’mores Martini // Nutmeg Nanny
This festive martini masterfully combines the beloved flavors of s’mores with a refreshing, cool burst of peppermint. It’s a dessert cocktail that feels incredibly luxurious and fun, making it an excellent choice for impressing guests and adding a touch of playful elegance to your holiday party. A true holiday indulgence in a glass.
Rosemary Lemon Gin & Tonic // Nutmeg Nanny
Give the timeless Gin & Tonic a sophisticated holiday makeover with the fragrant addition of fresh rosemary and a vibrant squeeze of lemon. This herbaceous and crisp cocktail offers a refreshing counterpoint to richer holiday fare, providing a clean, invigorating taste that’s both elegant and unexpectedly festive.
Gingerbread White Russian // Running to the Kitchen
Transform the popular White Russian into a festive delight with the comforting spices of gingerbread. This creamy, spiced cocktail is a decadent treat that perfectly embodies the warmth and sweetness of the holidays. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy a richer, dessert-like drink after a sumptuous festive meal.
S’mores Martini // Lemons for Lulu
Another delightful interpretation of the S’mores Martini, this recipe promises the same irresistible combination of toasted marshmallow, rich chocolate, and hints of graham cracker in a sophisticated cocktail. It’s a wonderful and creative way to offer a nostalgic dessert in liquid form for your adult guests, guaranteed to bring smiles.
The Sugar Plum // Karen’s Kitchen Stories
Inspired by the enchantment of the classic holiday ballet, “The Sugar Plum” cocktail offers a sweet, fruity, and truly magical drink. Its delicate flavors and beautiful presentation make it a charming choice for holiday gatherings, adding a touch of whimsy and festive elegance to your celebration.
Cranberry Fizz // Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts
A vibrant and wonderfully refreshing drink, Cranberry Fizz combines the crisp tartness of cranberries with a delightful effervescence. It’s a light, bright, and festive option, perfect for holiday brunches or as a palate cleanser between rich courses. This versatile drink can easily be prepared as an alcoholic cocktail or a refreshing mocktail.
Pomegranate Margaritas // Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts
Give the beloved classic margarita a festive and sophisticated makeover with the addition of rich pomegranate. The deep, ruby-red color and exquisite sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate juice create a beautiful and utterly delicious cocktail, offering a lively and unexpected twist on a beloved drink for your holiday fiesta or New Year’s bash.
Cranberry Moscow Mule // The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen
This festive take on the ever-popular Moscow Mule incorporates the bright, crisp, and tart flavor of cranberry, making it an absolutely perfect holiday cocktail. The spicy kick of ginger beer, combined with smooth vodka and zesty lime, is beautifully enhanced by the cranberries, resulting in a vibrant, refreshing, and incredibly festive drink ideal for any winter celebration.
Festive Punches & Crowd-Pleasing Batches
Hosting a larger holiday gathering can be a breeze with these impressive punch recipes and batch-friendly drinks. Designed to serve a crowd with effortless style, these vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly festive options allow you to enjoy your guests without the constant need to mix individual drinks. Set them out and let the good times flow!
Champagne Punch // Cook the Story
A truly celebratory punch that is as elegant as it is delicious. This Champagne Punch is effervescent, wonderfully fruity, and absolutely perfect for a dazzling New Year’s Eve party or a glamorous Christmas gathering. It’s incredibly easy to prepare a large batch, ensuring all your guests can raise a sparkling toast with ease and joy.
Sparkling Cranberry Punch // Taste and Tell
This vibrant and incredibly festive punch is an absolute showstopper for any holiday table. Combining the irresistible tartness of cranberries with sparkling elements, it’s a refreshing and visually stunning drink that’s perfect for both kids and adults. It’s a simple yet impressive way to ensure everyone at your celebration has a delicious drink in hand.
Spiced Cider Punch // Taste and Tell
Warm, wonderfully fragrant, and bursting with the comforting flavors of apple and seasonal spices, this Spiced Cider Punch is a truly inviting choice for a chilly gathering. Serve it warm from a slow cooker or large pot for an inviting aroma that will fill your home and delight your guests with its cozy deliciousness.
Refreshing & Unique Non-Alcoholic Holiday Options
Ensuring that all your guests, including children, designated drivers, and those preferring non-alcoholic beverages, feel equally celebrated, these options are just as festive and flavorful as their spirited counterparts. They are perfect for serving up delicious mocktails that everyone can enjoy.
Mint Chocolate Green Smoothie // Food Faith Fitness
For a refreshing and surprisingly healthy option amidst the rich holiday indulgences, this Mint Chocolate Green Smoothie is a fantastic choice. It offers the classic festive flavor combination of mint and chocolate, but in a vibrant, nourishing, and completely non-alcoholic form that’s both invigorating and satisfying. A great way to feel festive and refreshed!
Vegan Eggnog // The Roasted Root
Don’t let dietary restrictions limit your holiday cheer! This incredible Vegan Eggnog offers all the creamy, spiced goodness and rich texture of traditional eggnog without any dairy or eggs. It’s a wonderfully inclusive option that ensures everyone at your celebration can enjoy this classic, comforting holiday beverage, making it perfect for diverse gatherings.
Tips for Your Perfect Holiday Beverage Bar:
- Create a Dedicated Drink Station: Set up a beautifully arranged area where guests can easily serve themselves. Include an array of clean glasses, plenty of ice, and an assortment of garnishes.
- Offer a Variety of Choices: A thoughtful mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, as well as warm and cold beverages, ensures that there’s truly something delicious for every single guest’s preference.
- Garnish Creatively for Impact: Transform simple drinks into festive masterpieces with easy yet elegant garnishes. Think fresh cranberries, vibrant citrus slices, aromatic cinnamon sticks, fragrant rosemary sprigs, or a swirl of decadent whipped cream.
- Prepare Ahead to Reduce Stress: Many punches and mulled drinks are even better when made hours or even a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. This dramatically reduces your stress on the day of your party, letting you relax and enjoy the festivities.
- Label Your Drinks Clearly: Especially for larger gatherings or when offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, clear labels can help guests choose their drinks confidently and safely.
We hope this comprehensive guide to holiday drinks inspires you to get wonderfully creative and spread immense joy this festive season. From comforting warm sips that soothe the soul to dazzling sparkling cocktails that light up the night, and delightful non-alcoholic options for everyone, there are endless possibilities to make your gatherings truly special and memorable. We feel so blessed to have you here, exploring our recipes and sharing in the festive spirit. Cheers to a happy and healthy holiday season filled with delicious sips and cherished moments!