As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about festive drinks to enjoy with friends and family. While traditional eggnog and hot cocoa are always crowd favorites, there are plenty of other seasonal cocktails and mocktails that can add some extra cheer to your celebrations.
One popular option is a cranberry margarita. This sweet and tangy drink combines fresh cranberries, lime juice, tequila, triple sec, and simple syrup for a bright red cocktail that looks as good as it tastes. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the tequila and triple sec and replace them with sparkling water or ginger ale.
Another classic winter drink is mulled wine. To make this warm spiced beverage, combine red wine with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, orange peel, honey or sugar in a pot on the stove. Heat until simmering but not boiling for 20-30 minutes then serve in mugs garnished with cinnamon sticks or orange slices. If you prefer not to use alcohol try making mulled apple cider instead!
Gingerbread martinis are another fun twist on classic holiday flavors. This creamy cocktail includes vanilla vodka shaken over ice with ginger liqueur (or ginger simple syrup), cream or milk & spices such as cinnamon & nutmeg then strained into a glass rimmed in crushed gingersnaps!
If you’re looking for something light and refreshing opt for peppermint mocha smoothies (or mocktails). These delicious drinks blend together chocolate protein powder (or unsweetened cocoa powder) frozen bananas or yogurt & almond milk flavored with peppermint extract then topped off with whipped cream & candy cane pieces!
Finally don’t forget about everyone’s favorite holiday flavor – pumpkin spice! A pumpkin pie martini made by shaking together vanilla vodka mixed w/ pumpkin puree along w/ heavy cream; spices like cinnamon nutmeg clove allspice plus maple syrup if desired. Strain into a glass and top with whipped cream, cinnamon, or crushed graham crackers.
Whatever your taste preferences or dietary restrictions may be, there’s a seasonal cocktail or mocktail out there for everyone to enjoy. So whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking to cozy up by the fire with a festive drink, try out some of these creative recipes and get into the spirit of the season!
Leave a Reply