The holiday season is, without a doubt, the most delicious time of the year, and when it comes to drinks, the possibilities are nearly endless. From sour to sweet, tart to zesty, consider trying out these cocktail and mocktail holiday libations to put an extra bit of jolly in your step.
Cocktails
Cranberry Mimosas – Nicknamed the Poinsettia cocktail after the holiday flower, this libation is perfect for a Christmas morning brunch. The cranberries add a tartness that compliments the champagne perfectly with just a hint of sweetness.
- 1 lime, halved
- 2 Tbsp. sugar
- 8 ounces of sweetened cranberry juice
- 1 bottle champagne
- 12 fresh cranberries
- 4 small sprigs fresh rosemary
Sugar Plum Fairy Cocktail – If you’re looking to put a little holiday magic in your cup, this Nutcracker-themed martini should do the trick. It’s perfect for a holiday party with some glitz that’s refined but still fun.
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce plum simple syrup
- 1/2 ounce lemon or grapefruit juice
- 1 egg white
Spiced Apple Cider Mule – Moscow Mules are a classic cocktail, but the vodka-based drink easily adapts to a holiday beverage that is perfect for sipping in front of a roaring fire on a chilly December night.
- 4 ounces warm apple cider
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 1 ounce lime juice1
- 2 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces of ginger beer
- cinnamon stick for garnish
Mocktails
Holiday Berry Fizz – Perfect for the kiddos or anybody who simply wants to skip on the booze, this sweet sip makes an ideal after-dinner seasonal treat.
- 1 10-ounce bag sliced frozen strawberries, defrosted
- 2 Tbsp of honey
- 1 8-ounce bag of frozen blueberries, defrosted
- 4 ounces of ginger beer
- 1 bottle of sparkling white grape juice
Gingerbread Mocktail – Now, if you’re in need of a dessert in a glass, this soon-to-be classic mocktail takes the iconic holiday gingerbread house and adapts it into a drink that taps into holiday memories of Christmas past.
- 2 Tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp molasses
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ginger
- pinch nutmeg
- pinch of cloves
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 4 ounces of ginger beer
Citrus Sparkler – This crisp beverage is perfect for laying around the house after the kiddos have opened presents and you need a little bit of vitamin C to balance out that second cup of coffee.
- 2 Tbsp orange zest
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup hot water
- (Let sit overnight to make orange simple syrup)
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup tangerine juice
- ½ club soda
- lime slice for garnish
Whether it’s entertaining for a holiday happy hour or making mocktails for your crew at breakfast, nothing beats spending the holidays in a home you love. If you’d like to learn more about the available inventory in the Crosswinds community, reach out to our team today.