With the holiday season upon us, it’s the perfect time to start experimenting with different cocktail recipes that will get you into the holiday spirit. The below recipes are great whether you’re the designated cocktail shaker at your household or looking for new ideas to spice up the cocktail menu at your restaurant/bar.

(Note: Mocktail equivalents are listed below each recipe!)

1. Brandy Egg Nog

An egg nog cocktail is a no-brainer festive mixed drink. You can either make your own egg nog from scratch or use a pre-made one from the store. Below, check out an easy recipe for making one of these for yourself.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ounce brandy
  • 1 1/4 ounces milk + 1 large egg yolk (or store-bought egg nog)
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
  • Grated nutmeg, or cinnamon, for garnish

Make it a Mocktail: Simply ditch the brandy!

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2. Irish Coffee

The holidays can get pretty hectic. The coffee in this drink can help give you a little pick-me-up! However, if you’re not into nighttime caffeine, simply substitute with a decaf blend.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (1.5 fluid ounce) Irish Cream Liqueur
  • 1 (1.5 fluid ounce) Irish Whiskey
  • 1 cup Hot Brewed Coffee
  • 1 tablespoon Whipped Cream
  • 1 dash Ground Nutmeg, for garnish

Make it a Mocktail: Just a normal coffee drink of course!

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3. Baileys Hot Chocolate

A cup of warm hot chocolate during the holidays is a premium cozy experience. To make it boozy, check

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup prepared hot chocolate
  • 2 ounces Baileys® Original Irish Cream
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate topping

Make it a Mocktail: Just a normal hot chocolate of course!

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4. Peppermint White Russian

For an interesting spin on a classic White Russian, mix in some peppermint! It is recommended to mix in a short glass filled with ice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ounce vodka
  • 1 ounce coffee liqueur
  • 3/4 ounce peppermint schnapps
  • 1 ounce cold heavy cream.
  • 1 peppermint stick, for garnish

Make it a Mocktail: Ditch the vodka, then mix in brewed coffee or an espresso shot rather than coffee liqueur.

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5. Classic Champagne Cocktail

To transition into your New Years restaurant menu or cocktail party, this classic champagne-based cocktail is an essential.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sugar cube
  • 5 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Squeezed lemon peel
  • 1 glass champagne (~10 tablespoons)
  • For the garnish: Lemon twist

Make it a Mocktail: Substitute with a non-alcoholic champagne—for some recommendations, check out this article.

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