35 Fabulous Holiday Cocktails to Get You in the Festive Spirit for Christmas

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Holiday magic is in the air as we approach the festive season, and what better way to celebrate than surrounded by loved ones, indulging in delightful treats, and enjoying a refreshing drink?

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply unwinding at home, a carefully crafted beverage can instantly elevate your mood and get you in the holiday spirit. December is a time for indulgence, and rich foods, decadent desserts, and signature cocktails all contribute to the merry atmosphere.

Bourbon & Cranberry Holiday Cheer

Bourbon & Cranberry Holiday Cheer

Year after year, the holiday season brings with it a plethora of opportunities to get creative with cocktails. One standout choice is the Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail, a harmonious blend of sweet cranberry juice and smooth bourbon that yields a delightfully balanced taste experience. The inclusion of rosemary sage simple syrup adds an earthy and seasonal twist, elevating the flavor profile of this already alluring drink.

Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast, planning a festive Christmas gathering, or simply looking for a party-friendly cocktail to impress your guests, the Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is an excellent choice. Its versatility lies not only in its ability to be served in a classic rocks glass but also in its suitability for presentation in a more elegant French-style wine glass.

Furthermore, this easy-to-make cocktail can be prepared in advance and stored until serving time, making it a convenient option for any special occasion. The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is undoubtedly a must-try for anyone seeking a festive and delectable drink to cap off the holiday season.

Cherry Thyme Sparkler

Cherry Thyme Sparkler

Highlighting the perfect holiday drink, the Cherry Thyme Prosecco Cocktail is a sweet and refreshing concoction that’s sure to delight. Made with cherry juice, thyme, and a splash of Prosecco, this festive cocktail gets an extra boost from the addition of lemon juice, which expertly enhances its flavor profile. What’s more, the cherry mixture can be prepared ahead of time, making it a fantastic time-saver for busy holiday hosts.

Pinnacle’s Refreshing Winter Wonderland Drink

Pinnacle

Taking center stage at any holiday gathering, the Snowflake Chiller Cocktail is an absolute must-try for those seeking to revamp their typical seasonal cocktail game. Crafted with Pinnacle® Original Vodka, this refreshing concoction is remarkably easy to prepare and boasts an undeniable charm that’s sure to impress. Beyond its delectable taste, the Snowflake Chiller also makes a visually striking presentation, making it an excellent addition to any holiday soiree.

A few creative touches, such as using rock candy sticks as ‘stir sticks’ or adding a dollop of vanilla ice cream to create a cocktail float, can elevate this drink to new heights and add an element of fun to the experience. Whether you’re aiming to wow your guests during the upcoming holiday season, the Snowflake Chiller Cocktail is undoubtedly worth trying.

Bourbon Blackberry Bliss Cocktail

Bourbon Blackberry Bliss Cocktail

Understanding the perfect blend of flavors is key to creating a show-stopping holiday cocktail, like the Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash. The harmonious union of sweet honey and warm vanilla notes in bourbon pairs beautifully with the luscious flavor of blackberries, resulting in a well-balanced taste experience. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a revitalizing touch, cutting through the richness of the bourbon while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

With only four ingredients required for the recipe, this cocktail is an excellent choice for entertaining or casual gatherings. The elegant garnish of a sprig of thyme adds a sophisticated and refined touch to the presentation, making it a must-try cocktail for those who appreciate a fruity and comforting drink during the winter season.

Raspberry Sparkle with a French Twist

Raspberry Sparkle with a French Twist

Authenticating its French heritage, The French Kiss is a sleek and refined sparkling cocktail crafted with effervescent wine and a hint of Chambord, a distinctive raspberry-flavored liqueur. The name itself pays homage to the French roots of Chambord and the manner in which it elegantly ‘kisses’ the bubbly.

This sophisticated drink is ideal for any celebratory occasion and boasts an exquisite balance of sweetness, making it stand out from other sparkling cocktails with its one-of-a-kind flavor profile.

Pear-fect Gold Rush Cocktail Delight

Pear-fect Gold Rush Cocktail Delight

Taking inspiration from the opulence of the holiday season, The Gilded Vanilla Pear Sparkler cocktail is an elegant and refined concoction perfect for celebrating the New Year. Made with the luxury of 24 karat gold infused Christmas Gin, Italian vanilla liqueur, a squeeze of bright lemon juice, and a homemade vanilla pear syrup crafted to perfection, this drink exudes creaminess, fruitiness, and sophistication without any added refined sugars.

The addition of Brut Prosecco lends a crisp and revitalizing quality to this sumptuous winter cocktail, rounding out the flavors and creating an exquisite balance. A delicate pear fan and edible sparkler garnish elevate the visual appeal, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering or special occasion.

Whether you’re ringing in a new year or simply looking to indulge in a luxurious treat, The Gilded Vanilla Pear Sparkler is an unforgettable way to toast to the end of a challenging period and welcome a brighter future.

Cranberry Champagne Punch

Cranberry Champagne Punch

Elevate your holiday celebration with a refreshing twist on the classic mimosa. This festive and easy-to-make cocktail combines champagne with cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and orange juice for a delightful drink that’s perfect for the season. To add an extra touch of festivity, garnish with frozen cranberries and lemon slices. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to enjoy a special drink at home, Christmas Mimosas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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For more delicious holiday cocktail recipes, check out our article.

Dubonnet Gin Classic: A Royal Twist

Dubonnet Gin Classic: A Royal Twist

For those who are familiar with the British royal family’s favorite cocktails, The Queen’s Dubonnet Cocktail is a well-known drink that has been enjoyed by Her Majesty for years. Its unique combination of Dubonnet and gin makes it a perfect choice for a cozy night in with friends or family, as it offers a subtle balance of sweet and bitter flavors.

Dubonnet, being a sweet fortified wine aperitif infused with herbs and spices, provides the base flavor profile of the cocktail, which is then enhanced by the addition of gin, giving it a touch of sophistication that’s ideal for special occasions or a nightcap after a long day. To complete this classic drink, a lemon wedge and ice are added, making it incredibly easy to prepare and enjoy on any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a cocktail that exudes elegance or simply want to try something new, The Queen’s Dubonnet Cocktail is definitely worth trying out.

Winter Wine Punch

Winter Wine Punch

Need something special to serve at your next holiday party? Consider whipping up a batch of Christmas Sangria for a festive and crowd-pleasing cocktail that’s sure to be the talk of the town. Made with red wine, pure orange juice, and a burst of flavor from fresh orange slices and pomegranate arils, this sangria is both visually stunning and deliciously refreshing.

But what really sets it apart is the spiced simple syrup infused with star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, which adds a warm and inviting touch to the drink. And with its make-ahead convenience and ability to serve a large crowd, Christmas Sangria is the perfect addition to any holiday gathering.

Spiced Irish Winter Warm-Up Cocktail

Spiced Irish Winter Warm-Up Cocktail

Versatile and indulgent, the Chai Whiskey Flip has become a staple of modern winter cocktails. Combining the smooth, rich flavors of Irish whiskey with the warm, spicy notes of chai syrup, this luxurious drink is both comforting and decadent. As the aromatic chai syrup infuses its signature blend of baking spices and vanilla into each sip, it creates an irresistible combination that perfectly captures the essence of a cozy winter evening.

Typically served chilled in a coupe glass and garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, the Chai Whiskey Flip offers a sophisticated and satisfying experience for those seeking a truly immersive cocktail.

Lavender Dream Gin Tea Spritz

Lavender Dream Gin Tea Spritz

Fresh off the heels of our previous cocktail creations, we’re excited to introduce you to another delightful concoction – The Earl Grey Tea Cocktail. This revitalizing drink combines gin with earl grey tea, lavender, lemon, and honey simple syrup to produce a light, citrusy flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the botanicals found in gin.

Interestingly, the origins of the earl grey tea itself date back to the 1830s, when Charles Grey, the then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, commissioned his tea merchant to create a special blend just for him. Today, we’ve adapted this classic tea into a unique cocktail that not only tastes great but also boasts impressive health benefits – its high antioxidant content makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a ‘healthy’ cocktail option.

Rosy Sparkler: A Holiday Twist

Rosy Sparkler: A Holiday Twist

Taking center stage during the holiday season, the Pink Lemontini Champagne Cocktail is a delightful concoction that embodies the essence of the time of year. This innovative cocktail transforms the classic lemontini by infusing it with a touch of grenadine or maraschino cherry juice, elevating its flavor profile and giving it a vibrant pink hue.

The resulting drink is then topped off with champagne or prosecco, striking a perfect balance between the sweetness of the lemontini mixture and the crisp acidity of the bubbly liquid. As a result, this cocktail caters to those who prefer a slightly less sweet beverage without sacrificing any of its festive charm. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for either intimate gatherings or larger holiday parties, allowing you to create a sophisticated atmosphere with ease.

If you’re seeking a celebratory and delectable cocktail to serve during December’s festivities, the Pink Lemontini Champagne Cocktail is definitely worth considering.

Holiday Grapefruit Sparkler

Holiday Grapefruit Sparkler

Not only does the holiday season bring joy and cheer, but it also brings an opportunity to get creative with festive cocktails. For those looking for a refreshing and revitalizing drink to enjoy during this time of year, consider trying the Winter Sea Breeze cocktail. This zesty and invigorating beverage is made with vodka, grapefruit juice, tonic syrup, and soda water, making it not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

The addition of pomegranate seeds and a sprig of mint adds a lovely festive touch, perfect for any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something special to sip on, the Winter Sea Breeze is sure to bring some much-needed sparkle to your holiday season.

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Bourbon Grapefruit Twist Classic

Bourbon Grapefruit Twist Classic

Venturing into the world of classic cocktails can be an exciting experience, especially during the holiday season. The Brown Derby Cocktail is a timeless favorite that offers a delightful twist to your December drink list. With its bourbon base and carefully balanced blend of grapefruit and honey, this cocktail provides a unique flavor profile that’s both tangy and sweet.

One of the best aspects of the recipe is its simplicity, requiring no hard-to-find ingredients, making it an excellent choice for home bartenders. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly winter evening or simply want to add some variety to your drink list, the Brown Derby Cocktail is sure to impress.

Minty Christmas Martini Delight

Minty Christmas Martini Delight

Known for its refreshing blend of mint and raspberry flavors, the Candy Cane Martini is an ideal holiday cocktail that’s both fun and festive. This delightful drink incorporates a variety of sweet and tangy elements, including a candy cane garnish that adds a touch of whimsy to each sip. The recipe itself is remarkably easy to prepare and can be tailored to suit individual tastes by experimenting with different rim options, such as crushed candy canes, sugar, or even chocolate.

Whether you’re looking for a unique cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering or simply want to indulge in a delicious treat, the Candy Cane Martini is sure to impress your friends and family. With its perfect balance of flavors and festive presentation, this martini is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a memorable December cocktail experience.

Gin & Tonic Gets a Winter Glow

Gin & Tonic Gets a Winter Glow

Just as the holiday season brings a sense of warmth and coziness, the Winter Gin & Tonic With Elderflower & Sloe offers a delightful twist on the classic G&T, making it an ideal drink to enjoy during this time. By combining gin and tonic with a dash of elderflower liqueur, sloe gin, and Campari, this cocktail creates a visually stunning drink with a pretty blush and a hint of fruitiness.

The sloe gin and Campari add a rich, warming hue to the drink, while the elderflower provides a subtle reminder that summer will soon be back on the horizon. This expertly crafted cocktail is perfect for cozy nights in with loved ones.

Ruby Bourbon Holiday Twist

Ruby Bourbon Holiday Twist

Renowned for its festive and flavorful twist on the classic Old Fashioned, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is an ideal choice for holiday gatherings. Made with cranberry simple syrup, quality bourbon, and a splash of bitters, this cocktail boasts a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from its predecessor. The addition of cranberries not only adds a pop of color to the drink but also contributes to its distinctive taste.

With its beautiful red hue, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is sure to turn heads and impress your guests. It’s an excellent option for those looking to add a signature cocktail to their December drink menu, making it a must-try for anyone seeking to elevate their holiday celebrations.

Cranberry Spice Warming Sangria Delight

Cranberry Spice Warming Sangria Delight

Merging traditional autumnal spices and seasonal ingredients, the Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Sangria is a hearty and aromatic cocktail that’s perfect for the holiday season. Made with dry light-bodied red wine, brandy, cranberry juice, fresh or frozen cranberries, orange slices, simple syrup infused with cinnamon and whole peppercorns, this sangria is cooked in a slow cooker for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

Garnished with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and a sprig of cinnamon, this libation is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Ideal for entertaining large groups, this slow-cooked sangria is an effortless way to serve a crowd, making it perfect for your next Thanksgiving gathering or holiday party. With its warm and comforting flavors, you’re sure to impress your guests with this signature cocktail.

Cranberry Sparkle: A Festive Holiday Tipple

Cranberry Sparkle: A Festive Holiday Tipple

Versatile and festive, the Poinsettia Champagne Cocktail is an excellent choice for any holiday party. Its sweet and tart flavor profile, achieved through the combination of cranberries and orange liqueur, is sure to impress your guests. The addition of sparkling wine not only adds a celebratory touch but also helps to balance out the flavors. While traditional holiday drinks are always a hit, this cocktail offers a refreshing alternative that’s perfect for those seeking something new.

Its unique blend of flavors and festive appeal make it an ideal choice for serving at your next holiday gathering.

Peppermint Sparkle Martinis

Peppermint Sparkle Martinis

Elevate your holiday celebrations with the Candy Cane Martini, a show-stopping cocktail that’s sure to impress your guests. This delectable drink features homemade peppermint vodka as its star ingredient, giving it an unmistakable festive flavor that will transport you to a winter wonderland. Whether you prefer a crisp and refreshing martini or a rich and creamy one, this recipe has got you covered.

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The creamy version is particularly indulgent and perfect for sipping by the fireplace on a cold winter’s night. The harmonious combination of chocolate and peppermint flavors in the Candy Cane Martini is sure to put you and your loved ones in high spirits, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings.

Caramel Swirl Coffee Whiskey Cooler

Caramel Swirl Coffee Whiskey Cooler

Elevate your social gatherings with this show-stopping cocktail, perfect for those who crave a caffeine boost in their drinks. The combination of Jackson Morgan’s Salted Caramel Whiskey Cream and caramel sauce, paired with strong coffee and ice, makes for a mouthwatering blend that will leave you wanting more. To add an extra touch of sophistication, the rim of the glass is coated with a mixture of corn syrup and white sanding sugar, giving it a festive appearance reminiscent of winter nights.

Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party or any other seasonal gathering, this Salted Caramel Iced Coffee Cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them begging for another sip. Its unique flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for those seeking something new and exciting to serve at their next social event.

Minty Treat Holiday Cocktail Delight

Minty Treat Holiday Cocktail Delight

Packed with the flavors of peppermint and chocolate, the Christmas Cookie Cocktail is a sweet treat in a glass. Made with peppermint schnapps, Kahlua, and Irish cream, this drink has all the festive feels without being too overpowering. Its taste profile is reminiscent of a refreshing peppermint latte, but with a richer and more indulgent twist. Whether you’re looking for a dessert cocktail or a nightcap to cap off Christmas Eve, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

The Candy Cane vodka offers a great alternative to peppermint schnapps, giving you options to make this cocktail even more unique. Enjoy it chilled and pair it with some chocolate cookies or candies for an unbeatable combination.

Cranberry Elderflower Cocktail Delight

Cranberry Elderflower Cocktail Delight

Generally considered a festive and revitalizing drink, the Mistletoe Martini combines the tangy flavors of cranberry with the subtle sweetness of elderflower. Its unique taste profile sets it apart from other Christmas cocktails, which often overwhelm with excessive sugar or richness. The elderflower liqueur contributes an elusive yet intriguing flavor that skillfully balances out the tartness of the cranberries.

To add a touch of visual appeal, the cocktail is garnished with cranberries, providing a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. The overall taste experience is characterized by rich, fruity notes of cranberry accompanied by hints of citrus, making it an approachable and uncomplicated drink that will likely please even the most discerning palates.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply seeking a low-maintenance cocktail to impress your friends, the Mistletoe Martini is well worth considering.

Vanilla Cranberry Spritz Delight

Vanilla Cranberry Spritz Delight

Fresh from the world of festive cocktails comes the perfect addition to any winter gathering or holiday party: the Vanilla Cranberry Mimosa. This elegant drink requires only three ingredients and can be prepared with ease, making it an ideal choice for hosts who want to wow their guests without sacrificing too much time in the kitchen. The harmonious union of vanilla and cranberry flavors produces a refreshing taste that is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

Whether you’re looking to create a signature cocktail for your holiday celebration or simply want to indulge in a delicious drink on a cozy winter evening, the Vanilla Cranberry Mimosa is an absolute must-try.

Blackberry Rosemary Sparkle Holiday Cocktail

Blackberry Rosemary Sparkle Holiday Cocktail

Delivering on its promise of refreshing and colorful flavor, the Rosemary Blackberry Limonata is an ideal choice for the holiday season. This vodka-based drink skillfully combines the zesty tartness of lemon soda with the luscious sweetness of blackberries and the herbaceous earthiness of rosemary, creating a truly unique taste experience.

The homemade rosemary blackberry syrup adds depth to the cocktail, making it stand out from other holiday drinks and providing a welcome departure from traditional beverages. To complete this delightful concoction, garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary and a few plump blackberries, which not only add a pop of color but also contribute to the overall sense of elegance.

For those looking to recharge their holiday spirit and indulge in something cool, fresh, and revitalizing, the Rosemary Blackberry Limonata is an excellent choice, offering a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you feeling invigorated and wanting more.

White Chocolate Mudslides

White Chocolate Mudslides

Venturing into the world of festive cocktails, one indulgent drink stands out as a showstopper: the White Chocolate Mudslide. This rich and decadent twist on the classic mudslide gets an extra boost from melted white chocolate, elevating the flavor profile to new heights. Whether served in a martini glass or a cozy mug, this creamy and sweet concoction is sure to be the life of the party.

Ideal for sipping by the fire while enjoying a plate of holiday treats, or paired with a warm cookie or two, the White Chocolate Mudslide is an absolute must-try during the December festivities.

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