21 Holiday Drinks With Alcohol to Keep Spirits Bright

21 Holiday Drinks With Alcohol to Keep Spirits Bright

The holiday season is synonymous with warmth, cheer, and plenty of opportunities to gather with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply enjoying a cozy evening by the fire, holiday drinks with alcohol are the perfect way to keep the atmosphere lively and festive.

From classic cocktails to innovative creations, these 21 holiday drinks will not only keep your spirits bright but will also add a touch of sophistication and fun to your celebrations. Here’s a collection of alcoholic drinks that are perfect for any occasion this season.

1. Classic Eggnog

Eggnog is a quintessential holiday drink, beloved for its rich, creamy texture and comforting flavors. Made with eggs, cream, milk, and sugar, this traditional drink is spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon. The addition of rum or bourbon turns it into the perfect holiday indulgence. It’s a drink that brings warmth and festive cheer to any gathering.

Key Benefits: Rich, creamy, and deeply comforting.

2. Hot Buttered Rum

For a warm, comforting drink that packs a punch, hot buttered rum is a must-try. Made with dark rum, butter, brown sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this drink is as decadent as it sounds. It’s perfect for sipping by the fireplace after a day of winter activities.

Key Benefits: Decadent, warm, and rich in flavor.

3. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a festive classic that combines red wine with aromatic spices like cloves, cinnamon, and star anise. Often sweetened with honey or sugar and enhanced with orange peel or apple slices, this warm beverage is perfect for cozying up during chilly holiday nights.

Key Benefits: Aromatic, warming, and perfect for holiday parties.

4. Cranberry Moscow Mule

A holiday twist on the classic Moscow mule, the cranberry Moscow mule adds a seasonal touch with fresh cranberry juice and cranberries for garnish. Combined with vodka, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime juice, this festive cocktail is refreshing yet spicy, perfect for those looking for a fizzy, tangy drink.

Key Benefits: Refreshing, tangy, and festive.

5. Spiked Hot Chocolate

Nothing says cozy like a mug of spiked hot chocolate. A rich and creamy combination of hot chocolate and your favorite spirit—whether it’s whiskey, rum, or Baileys Irish Cream—this drink is guaranteed to keep you warm and satisfied. Top it off with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent treat.

Key Benefits: Rich, indulgent, and customizable.

6. Peppermint Martini

A peppermint martini is a festive and refreshing way to enjoy the flavors of the season. This cocktail combines vodka, peppermint schnapps, and a splash of creme de menthe for a minty, crisp flavor. Rim the glass with crushed peppermint candies for an extra holiday touch.

Key Benefits: Minty, refreshing, and visually festive.

7. Apple Cider Bourbon Smash

For a drink that captures the essence of the season, try an apple cider bourbon smash. Made with bourbon, apple cider, lemon, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, this cocktail is both tangy and aromatic, making it the ideal choice for a chilly evening.

Key Benefits: Warm, aromatic, and full of seasonal flavors.

8. White Christmas Margarita

The white Christmas margarita is a wintery twist on the classic margarita. By mixing tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a splash of coconut cream, you’ll create a creamy, tropical drink that’s perfect for the holidays. Garnish with shredded coconut for an added festive flair.

Key Benefits: Tropical, creamy, and a fun holiday twist.

9. Spiked Apple Pie

If you love apple pie, you’ll adore a glass of spiked apple pie. Made with apple cider, rum or bourbon, and a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cocktail mimics the taste of fresh-baked apple pie. Serve it warm, topped with a cinnamon stick for added visual appeal.

Key Benefits: Comforting, spiced, and reminiscent of a holiday dessert.

10. Holiday Sangria

Holiday sangria is a refreshing, fruity drink that works beautifully for large gatherings. Red wine, brandy, and a mix of citrus fruits, apples, and cranberries combine to create a festive, aromatic punch. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, making it perfect for making ahead.

Key Benefits: Fruity, refreshing, and great for parties.

11. Rum Punch

For a drink that’s both fruity and boozy, rum punch is a perfect option. Mix rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine for a colorful and delicious beverage that’s perfect for a holiday brunch or a New Year’s Eve party.

Key Benefits: Fruity, refreshing, and easy to make in bulk.

12. Gingerbread White Russian

A seasonal spin on the classic White Russian, the gingerbread White Russian combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and gingerbread syrup with a splash of cream. This drink is a sweet, spicy treat that feels like a dessert in a glass.

Key Benefits: Creamy, sweet, and perfectly spiced.

13. Pomegranate Prosecco Cocktail

For a light and refreshing option, the pomegranate prosecco cocktail is a beautiful and festive choice. Combine pomegranate juice and prosecco, then garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary. It’s a sparkling and elegant drink to add some bubbles to your holiday celebrations.

Key Benefits: Sparkling, light, and fruity.

14. Mulled Apple Cider with Rum

This mulled apple cider with rum combines the sweetness of apple cider with the warmth of rum and the spice of cinnamon, cloves, and orange slices. It’s an easy, flavorful drink to make in large batches, making it ideal for entertaining during the colder months.

Key Benefits: Warm, aromatic, and perfect for serving a crowd.

15. Cranberry Whiskey Sour

A cranberry whiskey sour takes the classic whiskey sour to the next level with the addition of cranberry juice. The sweet-tartness of the cranberries pairs wonderfully with the rich, smoky flavor of whiskey, creating a perfectly balanced holiday drink.

Key Benefits: Tangy, smooth, and festive.

16. Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned

For a twist on the traditional Old Fashioned, try a maple bourbon Old Fashioned. Add maple syrup to your favorite bourbon, along with bitters and an orange peel. This rich and warming cocktail is perfect for sipping during chilly evenings.

Key Benefits: Smoky, rich, and perfect for bourbon lovers.

17. Spiced Rum Eggnog Latte

Combine the indulgence of eggnog with the smoothness of a latte for a festive drink that’s a warm hug in a mug. Add a splash of spiced rum and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick. This spiced rum eggnog latte is perfect for sipping while you unwind after a busy holiday season.

Key Benefits: Cozy, creamy, and a great pick-me-up.

18. Candy Cane Martini

The candy cane martini is a fun, minty cocktail that’s perfect for holiday parties. Made with vodka, peppermint schnapps, and a splash of cranberry juice, this drink is topped with crushed candy canes for a festive twist on the classic martini.

Key Benefits: Minty, sweet, and fun for the holidays.

19. Chestnut Praline Latte with Bourbon

The chestnut praline latte with bourbon combines the rich, nutty flavors of chestnut praline syrup with bourbon and steamed milk. The result is a sweet, creamy drink that’s perfect for holiday mornings or cozy evening gatherings.

Key Benefits: Nutty, rich, and creamy.

20. Frosted Cranberry Martini

For a refreshing and visually striking drink, the frosted cranberry martini combines vodka, cranberry juice, and a splash of lime juice. The drink is garnished with frozen cranberries, giving it a frosty appearance that adds a festive touch to any gathering.

Key Benefits: Tart, refreshing, and visually stunning.

21. Bourbon Apple Fizz

The bourbon apple fizz is a fizzy and festive cocktail that’s easy to prepare. Mix bourbon, apple cider, and a splash of club soda for a refreshing drink that’s a little sweet, a little tart, and perfectly balanced. This cocktail is great for both casual gatherings and more formal holiday events.

Key Benefits: Crisp, fizzy, and balanced.

These 21 holiday drinks with alcohol are the perfect way to celebrate the season in style. From classic eggnog and mulled wine to festive twists like the cranberry Moscow mule and gingerbread White Russian, these cocktails add a flavorful kick to your holiday festivities. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or co-workers, these drinks will elevate your gatherings and keep the holiday spirit alive!