Gathering with family and friends, sharing memories over a festive feast and starting new traditions together—these are the moments that make a Christmas. If you and your loved ones will be raising a celebratory toast this year, why not swap traditional eggnog for cocktails that mirror the merriment of the season? These festive fusions are easy to shake together—just pour into your prettiest glassware and serve with a side of Yuletide cheer.

Honey Rum Fizz

A medley of winter flavors, this Honey Rum Fizz cocktail combines the crisp sweetness of apple juice with warming rum, honey and—in the spirit of celebrating—prosecco. Best served in a tumbler glass with a slice of apple and a sprig of mint, this sparkling serve is the perfect drink with which to raise a toast.

An illustration of an orange-colored cocktail in a tumbler glass, complete with ice, apple slices and mint leaves.

Ingredients

2 oz dark rum

1 ½ oz apple cider

2 oz prosecco

2 oz clear honey

Ice

Apple slice and mint for garnish (optional)

 

Method

1. Combine the honey and 4oz of water in a small bowl and stir until dissolved.

2. Combine the rum, cider and half the honey mixture into a cocktail shaker (you can save the rest for your next cocktail). Add ice and shake for 30 seconds, or until cold.

3. Strain into a tumbler glass, top with prosecco and garnish with apple and mint.

Spiced Cherry Spritz

Cranberry tends to steal the fruity spotlight during the festive season, but for a different sugar hit this Christmas let the saccharine cherry shine. With bitter-sweet amaro and the light fizz of lambrusco, this cocktail offers a grown-up twist on cherry cola—the perfect digestif when there’s no room left for dessert.

Ingredients

1 ½ oz amaro

3 oz lambrusco

Cherry soda

Ice

1 maraschino cherry (optional)

 

Method

1. Pour the amaro and lambrusco into a tumbler glass, over ice.

2. Top with cherry soda and stir to combine.

3. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

An illustration of a red cocktail in a tumbler glass, complete with ice, cherries and holly

Mezcal Sour

This Mezcal Sour recipe may defy traditional festive flavors but, with tangy lemon juice and a sweet shot of agave syrup, it packs a mighty punch. Serve in a cocktail glass and garnish with lemon peel and a splash of bitters for decoration.

An illustration of an orange-colored cocktail in a striped martini glass, complete with ice, lime peel and a wedge of lime.

Ingredients

2 oz mezcal

1 egg white

1 ½ oz lemon juice

1tsp agave syrup

Ice

Lemon peel and splash of bitters, to garnish

 

Method

1. Combine the mezcal, lemon juice, egg white and agave syrup in a cocktail shaker and shake for about 20 seconds, or until the mixture is frothy.

2. Fill the shaker with ice and continue shaking for 30 seconds.

3. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a few dashes of bitters and a strip of lemon peel.

Garnishing Tips

A well-garnished cocktail not only looks great but also enhances the drinking experience. For the Honey Rum Fizz, consider a slice of apple and a sprig of mint. For the Spiced Cherry Spritz, a maraschino cherry adds a pop of color and flavor. As well as garnish, its important to consider presentation when serving your cocktails—whether that's by using an elegant-yet-practical tray or a contemporary bar cart.

Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, consider offering a festive mocktail. A blend of cranberry juice, ginger ale, and a splash of lime can make for a refreshing and festive non-alcoholic option.

So there you have it, a selection of cocktails to make your holiday season more enjoyable. Whether you're a fan of traditional flavors or looking to try something new, these cocktails are sure to make your celebration a hit. If you need any tableware or décor to help with your festivities, click the button below to check out our Holiday Edit. Cheers!