The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, exchanging gifts, and enjoying festive treats. For me, an essential part of holiday celebrations is festive cocktails that capture the flavors and feelings of the season. Here are three holiday cocktail recipes to add cheer to your next gathering.
Peppermint Martini
The peppermint martini is a refreshing twist on a classic martini. It has the crispness of vodka and dry vermouth paired with the sweetness of chocolate liqueur and the bracing flavor of peppermint. This cocktail is perfect as an after-dinner treat or to serve at a holiday party.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces vodka
1/2 ounce peppermint simple syrup (or plain simple syrup)
3/4 ounce dry vermouth
3/4 ounce white chocolate liqueur
3/4 ounce peppermint schnapps
Peppermint stick for garnish
Instructions:
Add vodka, vermouth, white chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and peppermint simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a peppermint stick.
Jamaican Egg Nog
For a tropical twist on classic eggnog, try our version made with Jamaican rum and coconut milk. The rum adds a spiced kick, while the coconut milk provides a silky texture and island flair. Top with freshly grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick for stirring.
Ingredients:
2 ounces gold rum
2 ounce coconut milk
2 ounce heavy cream
1 egg
1 tablespoon sugar
Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Cinnamon Stick for garnish
Instructions:
Add rum, coconut milk, heavy cream, egg, and sugar to a blender. Blend until frothy, about 20 seconds. Pour into a small glass and top with grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.
Gingerbread Whiskey Sour
Spirit, citrus, and sugar are the trinity that combine to form the classic sour, one of the oldest types of cocktails. For a holiday spin on this timeless beverage, the gingerbread whiskey sour is a great option. Featuring bourbon, gingerbread simple syrup, lemon juice, and egg white, this one is sure to impress your guest this holiday season.
Ingredients:
2 ounces bourbon
3/4 ounce gingerbread syrup
3/4 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 ounce egg white
dash of Angostura bitters
Instructions
Add bourbon, gingerbread simple syrup, lemon juice, and egg white (add the egg white last) to a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Pressure does build up within the shaker when preparing this drink, so make sure to hold the lid on tightly and pause to release the pressure every few seconds. Shake until egg white is frothy. Add ice and shake again until thoroughly chilled. Strain into glass and garnish with a dehydrated orange or a gingerbread cookie on the side.
Any of these festive cocktails are sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Whip up a batch to enjoy at your next holiday gathering or cozy up after a long day of seasonal activities. Cheers!
