5 Fun Holiday Drinks to Try This Season

The holidays are the perfect time to whip up festive drinks that bring warmth and cheer. Whether you’re hosting a party or relaxing at home, these five holiday drink recipes will add a touch of magic to your celebrations.

1. Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Warm up with this classic holiday favorite with a minty twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until steaming (but not boiling).
2. Add chocolate chips and whisk until melted.
3. Stir in peppermint extract.
4. Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.

2. Cranberry Mimosa

This sparkling drink is perfect for holiday brunches.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cranberry juice (chilled)
• 1/2 cup champagne or sparkling wine (chilled)
• Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a champagne flute halfway with cranberry juice.
2. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
3. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.

3. Spiced Apple Cider Sangria

A fruity and festive twist on classic sangria.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Star anise and fresh cranberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine wine, apple cider, and brandy.
2. Add apple and orange slices, cinnamon stick, and cranberries.
3. Stir and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with star anise.

4. Gingerbread Martini

Turn your favorite holiday cookie into a sophisticated cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz Irish cream liqueur
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream and crushed gingerbread cookies for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice and add vodka, Irish cream, coffee liqueur, and gingerbread syrup.
2. Shake well and strain into a martini glass.
3. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies on top.

5. Eggnog White Russian

A creamy, holiday spin on a classic cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1/2 cup eggnog
• Ground nutmeg for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
3. Top with eggnog and stir gently.
4. Sprinkle with ground nutmeg before serving.

Conclusion

These five holiday drinks are sure to impress your guests and make your celebrations extra special. Whether you’re in the mood for something warm, bubbly, or creamy, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Cheers to a festive season and a wonderful year ahead!