Treat your loved ones this season to one of these boozy Christmas cocktails. You just might start a new tradition!
38 Christmas Cocktails to Make This Holiday Season
Updated on Nov. 15, 2024
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Frozen Brandy Old-Fashioneds
Total Time: 15 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Brandy, frozen orange juice concentrate, maraschino cherry juice, bitters
Level: Easy
Even if the weather outside is frightful, this frozen version of a traditional Wisconsin brandy old-fashioned made will get the festivities rolling. The make-ahead mixture is a perfect Christmas cocktail for gatherings of family and friends. Simply freeze, scoop and top with lemon-lime soda and a cherry.
“Both sides of my family are Midwestern, so our strong brandy tradition is evident in the slush we make for the holidays and in the Wisconsin old-fashioned cocktails we enjoy year-round. I decided to combine those recipes into something completely new. This goes very quickly at gatherings!” —Recipe contributor Stephanie Vaughan, Madison, Wisconsin
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Chocolate Espresso Martini
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Chocolate liqueur, brewed espresso, vanilla-flavored vodka
Level: Easy
A chocolate espresso martini is a decadent dessert cocktail with a kick of caffeine. The addition of chocolate liqueur sets it apart from a regular espresso martini.
“After-dinner drinks and dessert come together delightfully in this coffee-flavored cocktail that’s sure to perk up java lovers. A drizzle of chocolate syrup on the inside of the glass adds an easy flair.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Mulled Wine
Total Time: 45 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Fruity red wine, brandy, warming spices
Level: Easy
This classic Christmas cocktail is made with red wine and soothing, satisfying spices. It’s sure to keep your holiday guests cozy. After simmering the mulled wine, make sure to refrigerate it overnight to ensure the flavors meld before serving.
“This mulled wine is soothing and satisfying with a delightful blend of spices warmed to perfection. Refrigerating the wine mixture overnight allows the flavors to blend, so don’t omit this essential step.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Tom and Jerry
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Brandy or rum, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, bitters
Level: Easy
The Tom and Jerry cocktail is much older than the cartoon. It dates back to the early 1800s and is attributed to a British writer. Think of it as a warm version of eggnog. Eggnog may be the more popular Christmas cocktail, but the Tom and Jerry is just as delicious.
“It wouldn’t be Christmas without a warm Tom and Jerry drink. I was surprised to find out that not everyone knows about this beverage treat. One sip and I’m sure you’ll be hooked. It’s like a warm version of eggnog—only better.” —Recipe contributor James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
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Cider Wassail
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice, cinnamon
Level: Easy
This traditional wassail recipe is made with apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice and lemon juice. The sweet blend is spiced with cinnamon and clove for a perfectly balanced beverage your guests will love.
“This traditional wassail recipe came from a dear friend in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where we lived for many years. Since it’s warm, wonderful and non-alcoholic, we’ve even served it at church. This wassail drink is also perfect for a holiday open house.” —Recipe contributor Maryellen Hays, Wolcottville, Indiana
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Sugar Cookie Martini
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Vanilla vodka, Irish cream liqueur, amaretto, half-and-half cream
Level: Easy
What pairs well with Christmas cookies? A sugar cookie martini, of course! Vanilla vodka, Irish cream liqueur and half-and-half turn into a drinkable cookie you’ll want to make every Christmas.
“What’s for dessert? How about a creamy, sugary martini to cap the night off. This sweet twist on the classic strong martini uses vanilla vodka, Irish cream liqueur and half-and-half cream to create a cookie flavor.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Hot Buttered Rum
Total Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Butter, vanilla ice cream, rum, sugar, warming spices
Level: Easy
Make a batch of this sweet ice cream-based mix and store it in the freezer. When guests arrive, simply scoop into a glass, add water and rum for a delicious Christmas cocktail.
“I received this recipe from a friend more than 30 years ago, and I think of her every winter when I stir up a batch. It keeps well in the freezer, so feel free to make it ahead of time.” —Recipe contributor Joyce Moynihan, Lakeville, Minnesota
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Brandy Eggnog
Total Time: 40 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Eggs, brandy, rum, bourbon, half-and-half cream
Level: Easy
Store-bought versions can’t compete with homemade brandy eggnog. The secret ingredient for this Christmas cocktail is apricot brandy, which lends a nice fruity aromatic bump. You can even use this as a base for a copycat McDonald’s eggnog shake!
“Store-bought eggnog just can’t compete with my homemade version. Apricot brandy is my secret ingredient!” —Recipe contributor Shelia Weimer, Bluefield, West Virginia
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Pomegranate Martini
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Vodka, pomegranate juice, Cointreau, lemon juice
Level: Easy
The cool sophistication of this pomegranate martini will encourage you to enjoy some in-season pomegranates and keep a bottle of the juice in your fridge.
Tart and slightly sweet, this martini combines pomegranate juice, lemon juice and Cointreau for a vibrant flavor that blends well with the subtle and inviting vodka base. Make a glass the next time you enjoy a cheese board for a harmonious pair.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Cranberry-Orange Sangria
Total Time: 15 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Cranberries, cranberry juice, red wine, orange liqueur, oranges, apples
Level: Easy
Tart, citrusy and light, this party-worthy sangria is a shoo-in for Christmas Eve gatherings or brunch the next day. It can easily be made ahead of time to keep handy for drop-in visitors, too.
“Letting this sangria sit in the fridge overnight improves the fruitiness, making it the perfect make-ahead drink for a holiday party. It’s also nice with a splash of brandy.” —Recipe contributor Maria Regakis, Somerville, Massachusetts
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Butterscotch Martinis
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Vodka, butterscotch schnapps liqueur, creme de cacao, semisweet chocolate chips
Level: Easy
Who needs dessert when you can sip this butterscotch-flavored martini after dinner? Pour the blend over a few mini chocolate chips and top with candy for a delightful nightcap.
“The rich flavors of butterscotch and chocolate pair up for a nightcap that will satisfy any sweet tooth.” —Recipe contributor Clara M. Coulson Minney, Washington Court House, Ohio
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Irish Coffee
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Irish whiskey, brewed coffee, heavy whipping cream
Level: Easy
Whip up a batch of Irish coffees for your guests at the end of a meal. Add a float of creme de menthe whipped cream to this Christmas cocktail for a fun and delicious touch.
“This Irish coffee lives up to its reputation as a relaxing after-dinner drink. Creme de menthe adds a colorful touch to the cream.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Vodka, Kahlua, canned pumpkin, heavy whipping cream
Level: Easy
Turn an ordinary White Russian into your new favorite Christmas cocktail simply by adding a bit of pumpkin and cinnamon to the mix. Pumpkin’s rich, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with holiday vodka drinks.
“Your favorite cocktail just got a pumpkin spice makeover—a quick and easy twist on the classic. The pumpkin mixes well with vodka and Kahlua.” —Recipe contributor James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
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Pomgaritas
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Triple sec, tequila, pomegranate juice, lime juice, simple syrup
Level: Easy
Pomegranate juice gives a tart twist to the traditional margarita, and the ruby color is fitting for a Christmas cocktail. Double up the recipe to make a batch for a festive gathering.
“Pomegranate juice gives a tart and tasty twist to the traditional margarita. The ruby color is great for Christmas, but we enjoy the refreshing beverage all year long.”—Recipe contributor Bernice Knutson, Danbury, Iowa
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Chocolate Candy Cane Martinis
Total Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Half-and-half cream, cake-flavored vodka, chocolate liqueur, candy canes
Level: Easy
Peppermint in martini form is the perfect treat for a fun Christmastime gathering of friends. It’s really all about the presentation with this vodka cocktail, from the whipped topping to crushed candy canes that rim the glass for festive flair.
“A peppermint martini is perfect for a fun Christmastime gathering of friends. Crushed candy canes on the rim add festive flair.” —Recipe contributor Crystal Schlueter, Babbitt, Minnesota
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Chilean Monkey Tail Punch
Total Time: 15 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Milk, sugar, brewed coffee, pisco, vanilla extract, warming spices
Level: Easy
The best part of this punch isn’t just the name. Made with coffee, milk, cinnamon and cloves, it’s like an iced coffee Christmas cocktail that actually warms you up. Well, thanks to the addition of brandy, pisco or grappa, of course.
“Stories vary surrounding the origins of this punch’s unique name. Some say it was initially served in a bottle depicting a monkey with a long tail, but others suggest it was named after a funny incident with a Chilean president in the early 1900s. Whatever the origin, coffee and spirits will make this sweet chilled drink warm you right up this Christmas. It also goes by ‘cola de mono.'” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Double Chocolate Martini Recipe
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Half-and-half cream, vodka, chocolate liqueur, creme de cacao
Level: Easy
Don’t let the looks of this decadent Christmas cocktail fool you. Like many holiday vodka drinks, it’s both pretty and potent. Make sure to rim the glass in grated chocolate for a real holiday treat.
“Is it a beverage or a dessert? Don’t let its looks fool you: This chocolate martini is potent, but good!” —Recipe contributor Deb Williams, Peoria, Arizona
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Sweet Kahlua Coffee
Total Time: 10 minutes + coolingMain Ingredients: Kahlua, creme de cacao, instant coffee granules, heavy whipping cream
Level: Easy
Coffee, Kahlua and creme de cacao simmering in a slow cooker is an ideal way to welcome guests for a holiday open house. Make sure to set out whipped cream and grated chocolate as DIY toppers.
“I have this beverage brewing in my slow cooker at my annual Christmas open house. I set out the whipped cream and grated chocolate in festive dishes so guests can help themselves to as much Kahlua-flavored coffee as they’d like.—Ruth Gruchow, Yorba Linda, California
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Peppermint Martini
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Vanilla vodka, creme de menthe, half-and-half cream, peppermint schnapps liqueur
Level: Easy
Elevate your holiday cocktail game with our peppermint martini, a refreshing concoction that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Featuring a festive peppermint rim, this drink adds a spark of joy and elegance to your holiday toast.
“We put a minty spin on the classic martini with peppermint schnapps and sweetened it up with vanilla vodka. We like to dress it up for the holidays with peppermint around the rim.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Frozen Espresso Martini
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Vodka, Kahlua, brewed espresso or cold brew coffee, simple syrup
Level: Easy
Baby, it may be cold outside but it’s warm inside with all your holiday guests. Cool off a bit with this frozen espresso martini.
“The viral drink just got better. Take everything you love about an espresso martini and make it slushy!” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Butterscotch Mulled Cider
Total Time: 3 hours and 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Apple cider or juice, butterscotch schnapps liqueur, cinnamon sticks
Level: Easy
It takes five minutes to pull this sweet mulled cider together in a crock pot, but you can serve it all day long on Christmas Eve or day. Make sure to have some apple slices on hand for garnish.
“Only five minutes of preparation is needed for this dynamite slow-cooked drink. You will love the sweet taste of butterscotch and cinnamon in the hot apple cider.” —Recipe contributor Karen Mack, Webster, New York
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Pomegranate Cosmo
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Pomegranate liqueur, X-Rated Fusion liqueur, triple sec, cranberry-pomegranate juice, lemon-lime soda
Level: Easy
The classic cosmo doesn’t always have to be made with cranberry juice. For a signature Christmas drink, up the beautiful red color with pomegranate juice, and make it sparkle with a red sugar rim.
“Every soiree needs a signature drink. Sugar dresses up this simple cosmo that lets you enjoy a cozy evening with friends and still shake things up.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Chocolate-Caramel Rum Coffee
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Rum, chocolate syrup, hot brewed coffee, coffee liqueur
Level: Easy
Topped with coffee-flavored whipped cream, this warm and decadent Christmas cocktail is a delightful complement to chocolate desserts. Or just sip it on its own in front of the fireplace.
“This decadent drink can stand alone as a final course or as a complement to dessert. Our family loves it for sipping in front of the fireplace.” —Recipe contributor Joyce Conway, Westerville, Ohio
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Apple Brandy
Total Time: 35 minutes + standingMain Ingredients: Apples, brandy, water, sugar, warming spices
Level: Intermediate
With a little advanced planning, make this fruit brandy with fresh apples, cinnamon and cloves to sip during the holidays. Put it in decorative bottles with handwritten tags for lovely homemade gifts.
“This decadent drink can stand alone as a final course or as a complement to dessert. Our family loves it for sipping in front of the fireplace.” —Recipe contributor Joyce Conway, Westerville, Ohio
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Hot Buttered Cider Mix
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Butter, hot apple cider or juice, brown sugar, honey, warming spices
Level: Easy
Another great gift from your kitchen: Put the butter base for this cider mix in pretty jars with the recipe for how to serve it attached. Omit the brandy for a kid-friendly version.
“Put the butter base for this beverage in a decorative jar and attach a copy of the recipe for a great gift from your kitchen. You can omit the brandy for a kid-friendly version.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Cranberry Mimosa
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Cranberries, orange juice, lemon juice, champagne
Level: Easy
Tart cranberries balance the sweetness of orange juice in this classic mimosa recipe. The beautiful color and sparkling wine make it even more zippy.
“Mimosas are just so elegant for Sunday brunch. My recipe uses tart cranberries to balance the sweetness of champagne and orange juice.” —Recipe contributor Shannon Stephens, Lake in the Hills, Illinois
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Brandy Alexander
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Brandy, dark creme de cacao, heavy whipping cream, nutmeg
Level: Easy
You may want to skip the cookies altogether and just sip on this dessert cocktail after the meal. Though we wouldn’t say “no” to a cookie garnish.
“Brandy Alexander is a heavenly dessert cocktail, perfect for a cozy night in. It’s made with brandy, creme de cacao and heavy cream, then topped with freshly grated nutmeg. A garnish of crisp, delicate pirouette cookies takes it over the top!” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks
Total Time: 30 minutes + coolingMain Ingredients: Apple cider, caramel ice cream topping, cinnamon, champagne
Level: Intermediate
Apple cider mixed with a cinnamon caramel apple simple syrup and topped with bubbly is a perfect Christmas cocktail. Gold sprinkles on the rim and cinnamon-stick swizzles make it even more festive.
“This is the perfect fall cocktail. Apple cider mixed with a cinnamon caramel apple simple syrup and topped with bubbly—it’s the best holiday drink ever!” —Recipe contributor Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
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Pineapple Cider Wassail
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Apple cider or juice, pineapple juice, apricot nectar, orange juice, warming spices, rum
Level: Easy
This sweet—but not too sweet—cider tastes fantastic with a splash of rum, but it’s easy to omit the rum to create a kid-friendly version.
“Pineapple juice prevents this hot drink from becoming overly sweet. Skip the rum—without sacrificing flavor—for a beverage that’s appropriate for guests of all ages.” —Recipe contributor Lori Schmeling, Hartland, Wisconsin
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Maple Old-Fashioned
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Bourbon, maple syrup, Angostura bitters, orange peel, cherry
Level: Easy
Old-fashioneds are always on the menu in Wisconsin. This version adds maple syrup for an even cozier drink.
“The old-fashioned never goes out of style and lends itself well to endless variations. This version taps into fall by replacing the classic sugar cube or simple syrup with maple syrup.” —Recipe contributor Susan Bronson, Rhinelander, Wisconsin
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Pear Martini
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Pear vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup
Level: Easy
Got a taste for pear? The pear-infused vodka in this martini adds just the right fruity note for a refreshing cocktail before the main meal.
“This martini is simple, elegant and potently pear flavored, thanks to pear-infused vodka. Fresh lemon juice and simple syrup provide the perfect balance.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Apple Amaretto Sours
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Amaretto, apple cider, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks
Level: Easy
Amp up an amaretto sour with apple cider and lemon for a delicious twist on an old standard. Add a cinnamon stick for an extra dose of warmth for the holiday season.
“An amaretto sour has always been one of my favorite cocktails. This version has a special touch that makes it perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season.” —Recipe contributor Amber Forbes, Roper, North Carolina
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Cranberry Sparkler
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Raspberry rum, cranberry juice, lime juice, ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
Level: Easy
Make the base of this sparkling rum-based drink in advance, and top it off with ginger ale when guests arrive. Serve with a fresh cranberry garnish for a pretty seasonal twist.
“The flavors of this refreshing cran-raspberry cocktail are great any time of year. In winter, the cranberry makes it a good fit for holiday parties; on a warm summer’s night, the raspberry comes to the fore. It’s a favorite for our girls’ night!” —Recipe contributor Susan Stetzel, Gainesville, New York
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Holiday Mimosa
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Raspberry liqueur, grapefruit juice, champagne
Level: Easy
These holiday mimosas are a festive contribution to any Christmas brunch. If you’re feeding a crowd, scale up the recipe and make a pitcher of mimosas.
“Add a splash of color to your brunch table with this lovely rosy mimosa. It has a fantastic sweet-tart taste.” —Recipe contributor Jessie Sarrazin, Livingston, Montana
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Cranberry Bourbon
Total Time: 10 minutes + steepingMain Ingredients: Bourbon, dried cranberries, cinnamon stick, orange zest
Level: Easy
After adding dried cranberries, cinnamon and orange zest to bourbon, store the mixture in an airtight container for two to four weeks. Strain and serve the cranberry-infused spirit on the rocks or use in a cocktail (it makes great Manhattans and Old-Fashioneds).
“The subtle tang of cranberry and the warm winter spices make this bourbon just right for holiday toasts—neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail.” —Recipe contributor James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
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Pistachio Martini
Total Time: 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Pistachio liqueur, vodka, heavy whipping cream, simple syrup
Level: Easy
Here’s a Christmas cocktail you probably haven’t thought of before. Pistachio liqueur adds nutty flavor and heavy cream creates a smooth drink. It makes a great nightcap!
“A spin on the classic vodka cocktail, only four ingredients are needed to create this pistachio martini. Pistachio liqueur brings a salty earthiness flavor, heavy cream brings a smooth texture and a splash of simple syrup is added to the mix to balance out the strength of the alcohol.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Brandy Old-Fashioned
Total Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Brandy, maraschino cherry, bitters, orange juice, lemon-lime soda
Level: Easy
This version of an old-fashioned is popular in Wisconsin. It uses brandy instead of whiskey, plus cherry juice, sugar, bitters and water. Topped with lemon-lime soda, it’s an easy-drinking cocktail for all holiday festivities.
“The concept of an old-fashioned dates back to the early 1800s and includes whiskey, bitters, cherry juice, sugar and water. This version, which is extremely popular in Wisconsin, uses brandy in place of whiskey and lemon-lime soda instead of water for a milder cocktail.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
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Easy Irish Cream
Total Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Half-and-half cream, sweetened condensed milk, Irish whiskey, chocolate syrup, instant coffee granules
Level: Easy
While Irish whiskey is a go-to for this creamy concoction, you can swap in hazelnut liqueur, peppermint schnapps or amaretto for different variations. Have the mix ready for guests and simply add coffee later.
“Stir up this fast and easy recipe for a potluck brunch. There’s plenty of coffee flavor in every cozy cup.” —Anna Hansen, Park City, Utah
