The end of the year has always been my favorite time of year. October-December is full of hustle and bustle and reflecting on the past year. The holiday season is a time to be with family and relax. That being said, here are some of my favorite seasonal cocktails (which can easily be made into mocktails) that you can bring to your families festivities or a fun soiree!
Cranberry Moscow Mule
This crowd pleaser is the perfect drink for beginners! It’s fun, refreshing and requires little to know effort!
Ingredients:
2 oz vodka
2 oz cranberry juice
4 oz ginger beer
lime juice (to taste)
Garnish:
fresh cranberries
mint or sprig of rosemary
Method:
It’s easy. Simply mix all ingredients together in a copper mug, but be sure to add the ginger beer last to preserve the fizz! Top with the garnish and enjoy!
Spiced Egg Nog
Egg nog is not for everyone… but this spiced egg nog is rich, nostalgic and delicious.
Ingredients:
3 oz spiced rum
6 oz egg nog (AE is my favorite brand!)
1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Garnish:
1 cinnamon stick
Method:
Simply stir the spiced rum into the chilled egg nog. Top with ground cinnamon and a cinnmon stick.
Bailey’s Espresso Martini
Are espresso martini’s considered a holiday drink?? Who cares! This drink is the best nightcap or dessert!
Ingredients:
2 oz vodka
1 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
2 oz espresso
Garnish:
Coffee beans
Method:
Shake all ingredients in your shaker and strain into your favorite martini glass
Orange rosemary Mimosa
I love mimosas at any hour of the day. Here’s a fun, sophisticated twist on a classic mimosa.
Ingredients:
Champage (to taste)
2 oz blood orange juice
1 tbsp rosemary syrup
Garnish:
1 sprig of rosemary
1 orange slice (preferrably dried, but fresh is fine!)
Method:
Pour champagne into your favorite flute to taste and add the juice and the syrup. Top with your garnishes!
Mulled Wine
A classic holiday cocktail. Mulled wine is warm and spiced and great to enjoy with your family.
Ingredients:
All ingredients vary based on the batch you’re making.
1 bottle of dry red wine (can sub white)
1 orange, sliced
1-3 cinnamon sticks
Cloves to taste
Sugar to taste
Brandy or cognac to taste
Garnish
Orange slices
Cinnamon sticks
Apple slices
Method:
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan; stir
Heat pan to a slow boil
Remove orange slices and cinnmon stick
Serve and garnish with fresh slices and a cinnamon stick
I hope you are able to enjoy a peaceful and joyful holiday season surrounded by those you love! Cheers!