Halloween is behind us and Mariah Carey has officially defrosted. It’s Christmas time, y’all! And what can get you into the holiday mood more than a holly jolly cocktail? Maybe some merry truffles and holiday-themed charcuterie boards…but a cute Christmas cocktail is absolutely essential. Here’s a collection of yummy and simple festive drinks organized by your favorite type of alcohol. These are best accompanied by WHAM!’s “Last Christmas” on loop (because it’s one of the best songs ever), some fuzzy socks, and an ugly Christmas sweater. Enjoy your favorite booze or try testing out new and exciting drinks. Here are our top 10 holiday cocktails to make ASAP.
#SpoonTip: Drinking can be fun, but be responsible. Spoon does not promote binge or underage drinking. Stay safe!
1. Vodka: The St. Nick
This is one drink that Santa might like more than a glass of milk. The pear and vodka combo is a classic, and you can even try using pear-flavored vodka (my personal favorite is La Poire Grey Goose).
2. Rum: The Home Alone
This cocktail is a warm mix of apple cider, maple syrup, cinnamon, and your favorite spiced rum. Perfect for cuddling up in front of a fire, or a space heater.
3. Champagne: The Primrosa
Champagne is a perfect drink for when you’re with the family and want to celebrate the holidays, or the fact that you survived your first semester. By replacing orange juice with cranberry, this cocktail has a festive color and can be consumed any time of day.
4. Tequila: White Christmas Margarita
Who said that margaritas were meant for warm weather? This white, coconut-based margarita is a little complicated, but worth the effort. It can be decorated with cranberries and rosemary to add a Christmas vibe, but the flavor will transport you to the beach.
5. Red Wine: Mulled Wine
This mulled wine recipe is just a warm wintery version of Sangria. Mulled wine is very popular throughout Europe as a winter treat, and Europeans definitely know their alcohol better than anyone else.
6. Fireball: Warm Spicy Caramel Apple
This recipe calls for whiskey, but Fireball adds even more cinnamon flavor, making this cocktail more like your favorite holiday dessert. There’s nothing wrong with a combo of your fave whiskey and a slice of pie.
7. Beer: Black Velvet
If you are a beer lover but aren’t feeling the seasonal IPAs, this is the cocktail for you. It’s not specifically a holiday drink, but the darkness of the Guinness goes well on a snowy, wintery day.
8. White Wine: The Ultimate Holiday Sangria
Sangria is one of those drinks you can throw together based on what’s already in your fridge. During the holiday season, most of these ingredients will already be staples, so why not soak them in some alcohol?
9. Gin: Cranberry Cocktail
This A Christmas Carol-inspired cocktail is so simple you can make it in your dorm room. That is, if you have gin in your dorm room.
10. Kahlua: Hot Mint Chocolate Toddy
If Kahlua is your alcohol of choice, then you already know that it’s already a perfect drink for the holidays. However, if you’re looking to impress some guests, this mint hot chocolate toddy is the perfect drink for you.
Cheers to Christmas and the holiday spirit, literallys! Enjoy your cocktails.