Christmas is a time for celebration, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with festive drinks?
From warming mulled wine to creamy eggnog, the right beverage can make your gathering truly special.
These 21 Christmas drink recipes offer something for everyone, whether you prefer boozy cocktails or family-friendly options.
As the winter chill sets in, these drinks provide comfort and joy to your holiday celebrations.
You’ll find traditional favorites alongside creative new concoctions that are sure to impress your guests.
Many of these drinks feature seasonal flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, peppermint, and cranberry that capture the essence of the season.
1. Eggnog
Eggnog is a classic Christmas drink that brings nostalgic holiday cheer to any gathering. This creamy beverage typically combines egg yolks, sugar, milk, and heavy cream with a generous splash of bourbon or other spirits.
You can easily make traditional eggnog at home with simple ingredients.
Many recipes call for about 1½ cups of bourbon, though you can adjust the amount to your preference.
For a twist on the classic, try variations with different spirits or added flavors.
Some recipes incorporate rye whiskey, allspice dram, or even pineapple juice for a unique take.
Don’t forget to top your eggnog with freshly grated nutmeg for that authentic holiday flavor.
2. Mulled Wine
Mulled wine, also known as Glühwein, is a warm, spiced drink perfect for Christmas gatherings. This cozy beverage combines red wine with fragrant spices and citrus flavors.
To make mulled wine, you’ll need a bottle of red wine, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and some citrus. White wine can also be used for a lighter version.
Simply heat the wine with spices, adding sugar to taste.
Just make sure not to boil the mixture or you’ll lose the alcohol content.
For extra flavor, try adding orange slices, fresh ginger, or a splash of brandy.
Serve in heat-resistant mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.
3. Peppermint Schnapps Hot Chocolate
This festive drink combines the cozy warmth of hot chocolate with the cool kick of peppermint schnapps. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.
To make this delicious cocktail, you’ll need hot chocolate (homemade or from a packet), peppermint schnapps, and milk. Some recipes also add vanilla vodka or crème de cacao for extra flavor.
A slow cooker works great for keeping this drink warm during parties.
Just whisk the ingredients together and let guests serve themselves.
Top with whipped cream for a classic finish.
You can also add crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for a festive touch.
4. Cranberry-Ginger Mimosa
This festive drink combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the spicy warmth of ginger for a holiday twist on the classic mimosa. It’s perfect for Christmas morning or any winter celebration.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need cranberry juice, ginger (either as ginger beer or ginger liqueur), and champagne or prosecco. Mix about 2 ounces of cranberry juice with 1 ounce of ginger component, then top with your sparkling wine.
For an extra special touch, garnish with sugared cranberries or a twist of orange peel.
Some versions also include a sprig of fresh rosemary for a hint of pine that enhances the holiday feel.
This drink balances sweet, tart, and spicy flavors beautifully.
It’s easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its festive red color and bubbly presentation.
5. Coquito
Coquito is a rich, creamy holiday drink from Puerto Rico that brings festive cheer to any Christmas gathering. This delicious beverage combines coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk for a smooth texture.
Dark rum gives coquito its signature kick, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warm holiday flavors. Think of it as Puerto Rico’s version of eggnog, but with a tropical twist.
You can serve coquito chilled in small glasses, as it’s quite rich.
It’s traditionally enjoyed throughout the holiday season in Puerto Rican homes and has gained popularity across the United States in recent years.
6. Hot Buttered Rum
Hot buttered rum is a classic holiday drink that will warm you up on cold winter nights. This rich and creamy cocktail combines rum with a sweet, buttery batter flavored with seasonal spices.
To make it, you’ll need butter, brown sugar, powdered sugar, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Some recipes even use melted vanilla ice cream in the batter for extra creaminess.
Mix your batter ingredients first, then add a spoonful to a mug with rum and hot water. The butter creates a velvety texture as it melts into the drink.
This festive cocktail is simple to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.
7. Irish Coffee
Irish coffee is a classic cocktail that combines hot coffee with Irish whiskey and sweetened cream. It’s perfect for warming up during the holiday season.
To make a great Irish coffee, start with freshly brewed hot coffee. Add Irish whiskey and a sweetener like maple syrup or sugar.
Top your drink with lightly whipped cream.
For a festive twist, you can add flavors like Bailey’s or Kahlua to enhance the taste.
The cream should float on top of the coffee.
Sip the hot coffee through the cool cream for the best experience.
8. Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a perfect holiday cocktail that brings warmth to winter festivities. This creamy treat requires only three simple ingredients: brandy (preferably Cognac), dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
To make this delicious drink, add the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. Then pour the mixture into cocktail or coupe glasses.
For an extra festive touch, top your Brandy Alexander with a sprinkle of nutmeg or chocolate shavings.
The rich, dessert-like quality makes this cocktail an excellent choice for serving after holiday meals.
You can adjust the proportions to suit your taste preferences. Many people enjoy this drink during Christmas gatherings as a sophisticated alternative to eggnog.
9. Cranberry Mule
The Cranberry Mule is a festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule, perfect for Christmas gatherings. This bright red cocktail combines vodka, cranberry juice, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice.
To make this holiday drink, you’ll need vodka, unsweetened cranberry juice, ginger beer, lime juice, and ice. Some recipes also include fresh cranberries as a garnish for extra festive flair.
Mix the vodka and cranberry juice in a copper mug filled with ice. Add fresh lime juice, then top with ginger beer. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cranberries.
The combination of tart cranberry with spicy ginger creates a refreshing yet seasonal cocktail that your guests will love.
10. Peppermint White Russian
The Peppermint White Russian adds a holiday twist to the classic cocktail. This festive drink combines coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream with refreshing peppermint flavor.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need Kahlúa (coffee liqueur), vodka, peppermint schnapps (or peppermint vodka), and cream or half and half. Some recipes also include a touch of peppermint extract for extra flavor.
For a decorative touch, rim your glass with crushed candy canes. This creates a sweet, minty accent that complements the drink perfectly.
This creamy, minty cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of coffee and peppermint flavors makes it an ideal after-dinner drink.
11. Christmas Mimosa
Christmas mimosas are a festive twist on the classic brunch cocktail. They combine cranberry juice with champagne or sparkling wine for a holiday-themed drink.
To make this cheerful beverage, mix equal parts cranberry juice and champagne. You can add a splash of orange juice or orange liqueur for extra flavor.
For a truly festive presentation, garnish with sugared cranberries and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
The green rosemary resembles a Christmas tree branch while the red cranberries add a pop of holiday color.
These drinks are perfect for Christmas morning brunch or holiday gatherings. They’re simple to make but look impressive in a champagne flute.
12. Sparkling Christmas Punch
Sparkling Christmas Punch is a festive and refreshing holiday beverage that’s perfect for serving at parties. This big-batch cocktail combines sparkling wine or champagne with vodka for an extra kick.
The punch gets its festive flavor from cranberry juice and orange, creating a bright, not-too-sweet taste that guests love. Some recipes add ginger elements through simple syrup or ginger beer for a pleasant warmth.
You can easily customize this punch by using sparkling rosé instead of white wine or adding pomegranate juice for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or rosemary sprigs to make your punch as beautiful as it is delicious.
13. Jingle Juice
Jingle Juice is a festive punch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. This boozy concoction typically combines cranberry juice, wine, and vodka for a drink that’s sure to bring cheer to your celebration.
A basic recipe includes cranberry juice, pink Moscato or red wine, vodka, and some sparkling element like Prosecco or sparkling cider. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the alcohol with additional sparkling apple or grape juice.
You can garnish your Jingle Juice with frozen cranberries and lime slices for a pop of color.
This punch is easy to make in large batches, making it ideal for hosting holiday parties where you need to serve many guests.
14. Christmosa
The Christmosa is a festive twist on the classic mimosa cocktail, perfect for Christmas morning or holiday brunches. This simple drink combines champagne with cranberry juice for a seasonal red color.
To make a Christmosa, fill a champagne flute halfway with chilled champagne or prosecco. Top it with cranberry juice and garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
You can customize your Christmosa by adding a splash of orange juice or a dash of cinnamon. For a stronger version, add a small amount of vodka or gin.
Serve in champagne flutes for an elegant presentation that will impress your holiday guests.
15. Grinch Punch
Grinch Punch is a festive green drink perfect for Christmas gatherings. This bright, lime-green beverage combines sweet and tangy flavors that everyone will enjoy.
The basic recipe includes lime sherbet, Green Hawaiian Punch, pineapple juice, and lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7-Up. The sherbet gives it a creamy texture while the soda adds a refreshing fizz.
For an adult version, you can add vodka. Some recipes also include ginger ale or ginger beer for extra kick.
You can make it more festive by rimming glasses with honey and decorative sugar.
This vibrant drink will certainly bring some Grinch-inspired cheer to your holiday party!
16. Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail
This festive cocktail lives up to its playful name. It combines your choice of bourbon, whiskey, or vodka with a refreshing mix of orange juice, cranberry juice, and spicy ginger syrup.
You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time.
Mix the orange juice, cranberry juice, and ginger syrup in advance. Then add your alcohol, club soda, and ice right before serving.
To make this drink, fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add your chosen liquor, juices, and ginger syrup. Shake well and divide between two glasses.
It’s a versatile holiday drink that you can adjust to suit your taste preferences.
17. Rudolph’s Tipsy Spritzer
Rudolph’s Tipsy Spritzer is a festive holiday cocktail that brings cheer to any Christmas gathering. This sweet drink combines orange juice, cranberry juice, and a splash of soda for a refreshing fizz.
The adult version includes vodka for a “tipsy” touch, while maraschino cherry juice adds both color and sweetness. You can use ginger ale, 7UP, or cherry lemon-lime soda depending on your preference.
To make a single glass, mix 2 ounces each of cranberry and orange juice with 1.5 ounces of soda and 1.5 ounces of vodka. Add a splash of maraschino cherry juice for that signature red color that gives this drink its Rudolph-inspired name.
18. Gingerbread Martini
A Gingerbread Martini brings the warm flavors of holiday cookies to your glass. This dessert cocktail combines sweet and spicy elements perfectly.
The basic recipe includes vodka (often vanilla vodka), gingerbread syrup, and Irish cream liqueur. Some versions add heavy cream for extra richness.
For garnish, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream if you want to make it more decadent.
This martini works wonderfully as an after-dinner drink during the holiday season. Sip it while relaxing by the Christmas tree or serve it to impress guests at your holiday gathering.
19. Candy Cane Cocktail
The Candy Cane Cocktail brings festive holiday cheer to your glass with its minty, sweet flavor. This Christmas drink combines vodka, crème de menthe, and cranberry juice for a refreshing taste.
To make this cocktail, add vodka, crème de menthe, cranberry juice, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake until well combined, then pour into a martini glass.
For an extra festive touch, you can rim your glass with crushed candy canes. Some recipes also include a few drops of peppermint extract to enhance the mint flavor.
This bright red and white drink is perfect for holiday gatherings with family and friends.
20. Holiday Rum Punch
Holiday Rum Punch brings warmth and cheer to any Christmas gathering. This festive drink combines rum with sweet and fruity flavors that everyone will enjoy.
A classic recipe includes spiced rum, orange juice, and grenadine for a sweet, tropical taste. You can also try a creamier version with heavy cream and oat milk for a twist on the traditional coquito.
For an extra special touch, add peach mango sparkling water to your rum punch. Garnish with orange slices and cinnamon sticks to make it look as festive as it tastes.
Serve this punch in a large bowl so guests can help themselves throughout your holiday party.
21. Cinnamon Schnapps Cider
Warm apple cider becomes magical when paired with cinnamon schnapps for a perfect holiday treat. This simple cocktail combines the sweet spice of cinnamon liqueur with fresh apple cider for a warming winter drink.
To make this festive beverage, heat apple cider on the stove until steaming but not boiling. Pour about 1.5 ounces of cinnamon schnapps into a mug, then add 6 ounces of hot cider.
You can garnish with a cinnamon stick for extra flavor and presentation. For a special touch, try rimming the mug with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before pouring.
This comforting drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.
Ingredients to Elevate Your Christmas Drinks
The right ingredients can transform an ordinary holiday beverage into something truly spectacular. The perfect Christmas drink combines complementary flavors that bring warmth, festivity, and a touch of seasonal magic.
Seasonal Spices and Herbs
Cinnamon sticks add both flavor and visual appeal to hot drinks. Drop them directly into hot cocktails or use as a stirrer for an elegant touch.
Nutmeg should be freshly grated over eggnog or creamy cocktails. The aromatic quality is much stronger than pre-ground nutmeg and creates a more luxurious experience.
Star anise provides a distinct licorice flavor that pairs wonderfully with citrus-based drinks. Its beautiful star shape also makes it a perfect garnish.
Rosemary sprigs work beautifully in both savory and sweet cocktails. Try adding them to cranberry vodka drinks as mentioned in search results, or use as a fragrant garnish.
Cloves, cardamom, and ginger bring warming notes perfect for winter drinks. These spices can be infused into simple syrups or added directly to hot beverages.
Choosing the Right Alcoholic Base
Vodka serves as a versatile foundation that allows other flavors to shine. Flavored options like cranberry vodka can add another dimension to your Christmas drinks without extra effort.
Whiskey brings depth and warmth ideal for cold winter nights. It forms the backbone of classics like hot toddies and pairs excellently with spices and citrus.
Rum, especially dark or spiced varieties, is essential for traditional eggnog. The caramel and vanilla notes complement creamy, sweet drinks perfectly.
Cointreau and other orange liqueurs add brightness to cocktails. As noted in the search results, they feature in many holiday drink recipes, balancing richer ingredients.
Consider gin for more botanical-forward cocktails. Its herbal profile pairs well with rosemary, cranberry, and citrus for sophisticated holiday drinks.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
Cranberry juice provides the festive red color without alcohol. It offers tartness that balances sweet ingredients and works well with citrus and spices.
Apple cider makes an excellent base for alcohol-free holiday punches. Warm it with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices for a comforting drink everyone can enjoy.
Pomegranate juice brings rich color and antioxidant benefits. It features in many holiday cocktails but works equally well in non-alcoholic versions.
Simple syrups infused with holiday flavors elevate any drink. Try making your own with vanilla, cinnamon, or ginger for custom flavor profiles.
Coffee and hot chocolate serve as excellent bases for special holiday drinks. Dress them up with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or a splash of flavored syrup for festive non-alcoholic options.
Tips for Perfect Drink Presentation
The visual appeal of your Christmas cocktails can be just as important as their taste. Great presentation transforms ordinary drinks into festive showstoppers that will impress your holiday guests.
Garnishing with a Festive Twist
Choose garnishes that highlight the season’s colors and flavors. Fresh cranberries make excellent floating decorations in clear drinks, adding bright red pops of color.
Rosemary sprigs resemble miniature Christmas trees and add a wonderful aroma. Dip them in simple syrup and sugar for a frosted effect.
Orange and lemon twists bring vibrant color. Try cutting them into star shapes for extra holiday charm.
Consider edible gold or silver dust for luxury drinks. Just a pinch on top creates a magical sparkle effect.
Candy canes make perfect stirrers for minty cocktails. They slowly dissolve, adding flavor as guests sip.
Quick tip: Prepare garnishes in advance and store them properly to save time during your party.
Utilizing Themed Glassware and Decorations
Invest in holiday-specific glassware to elevate your drink presentation. Glasses with subtle snowflake etchings or gold rims bring elegance without being overly themed.
For a personal touch, decorate glass rims with crushed candy canes or colored sugar. You can also use chocolate shavings or a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Attach mini ornaments to glass stems for a festive touch. Choose tiny bells or stars that complement your overall decor.
Paper straws in red, green, or metallic colors add flair while being environmentally friendly. You can also wrap them with washi tape for custom designs.
Consider serving trays that match your theme. A silver platter with pine sprigs creates an impressive display for delivering drinks to guests.
