12 Days of Christmas Cocktails
By McKenzie Starr
The holiday season slate of events is a hostess’s dream. From Christmas parties to Christmas Eve and New Year, every occasion needs a drink— especially in 2020! I’ve compiled a list of my all-time favorite Christmas drinks to ensure you keep your guests merry and bright this holiday season. These recipes are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to drink. Everyone’s preferences for seasonal Christmas tastes are different. With that in mind, I thought it would be fun to incorporate 12 diverse holiday drinks and shots for each night of the 12 days of Christmas!
Gingerbread White Russian
Gingerbread is a Christmas staple, and it is only fitting we pair it up with a dessert-like drink (and my personal favorite), a White Russian. You’re in luck because Trader Joe’s is currently selling their signature mini gingerbread men that are perfect for garnishing the top of your drink. This drink has two main components, the gingerbread syrup and the cocktail itself. Check out Half Baked Harvest for my favorite recipe.
White Chocolate Martini
I’m a sucker for the elegance of a martini— something about the dainty appearance of the glass itself. Make sure to rim this classy cocktail with crushed peppermint or garnish with a full candy cane hanging on the side for that extra holiday charm. Check out Inspired by Charm for my favorite recipe.
George Washington’s Egg Nog Recipe
Eggnog was considered a special occasion drink during the colonial times and was often served to guests to display wealth. Rumor has it that this particular recipe has been served at White House Christmas parties for decades. Though I love the taste- be warned— this recipe packs a punch! Check out The Old Farmer’s Almanac for my favorite recipe.
Mrs. Claus Cranberry Whiskey
Who’s to say if Mrs. Claus is a whiskey lover, but she does know how to garnish with rosemary and cranberries! This is a simple and easy drink to concoct for whiskey lovers. Check out The College Housewife for my favorite recipe.
Santa Clausopolitan
I had to include a drink named after the big man himself. This recipe serves a large group, and I can guarantee it will be a crowd favorite. Insider tip, make sure to throw cranberries in the freezer ahead of time to garnish and keep the drink cool without diluting it! Check out Delish for my favorite recipe.
Apple Cider Moscow Mule
This is a simple twist on the classic Moscow mule recipe- replacing lime juice with the season favorite of apple cider vinegar. A perfect recipe for a cozy night by the firepit with friends. Check out Homemade Interest for my favorite recipe.
Raspberry Russian Cocktail
This drink looks way harder to make than it is, but it’s deceptively simple. A couple of hours before you serve, just throw raspberries in an ice tray with pre-boiled water. Large, clear ice is all the rage right now— spice it up with some fresh raspberries! Check out Love and Olive Oil for my favorite recipe.
Kahlua Hot Chocolate
Get that Swiss Miss out of the pantry; we’re way past the days of store-bought hot chocolate mix. This is an easy, over-the-stove recipe, made even cozier with a splash of Kahlua. If you don’t have any Kahlua, Baileys is a great substitute. Check out Damn Delicious for my favorite recipe.
Candy Cane Shooters
Two things I love: shooters and candy canes! Who doesn’t love a Christmas themed shot? I’m absolutely obsessed with these delicious and festive mini mason jar shot glasses. Check out A Night Owl for my favorite recipe.
Milk and Cookies Shot
If you’re looking to go the extra mile, try making your own cookie shot glasses! Santa’s standards on Christmas Eve are going to shoot way up after you introduce him to these. These go great with milk (or a milk substitute) but work equally well with some eggnog. Check out Inspired by Charm for my favorite recipe.
Pisco Sour
We’re covering all our bases and flavor profiles here. Cut through the richness of Christmas dinner and cookies with this tart, refreshing drink. The flavor complexity provided by the bitters adds a lemony tasting option to your menu. Check out Good Housekeeping for my favorite recipe.
White Christmas Margarita
Last but not least, we had to get a splash of tequila in here somewhere. This is a white Christmas twist on a classic margarita. Included with the tequila is a taste of coconut that will make you feel like you’re celebrating Christmas in the tropics! Feliz Navidad! Check out How Sweet Eats for my favorite recipe.
Photos via @recipesthatreallywork, @glamourgermany, @frugalmama
