10 Holiday Cocktails That Will Make Your Spirits Bright

‘Tis the season to celebrate! After two years of putting parties on pause, people are ready to get together with family and friends for weddings, holiday parties, office gatherings, and more. And many will want to raise a glass while mixing and mingling with their nearest and dearest. Not sure what drinks to serve at your next gathering? Here are 10-holiday cocktails to deck the halls and make your spirits bright!

1. Something Sour

Instructions: 

1. To make cranberry syrup, add equal parts water and sugar to a saucepan along with ½ cup cranberries. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-8 minutes. Sieve cranberries and allow syrup to cool. The syrup will keep for 4-7 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
2. Add cognac, lemon juice, orange juice, cranberry syrup, and egg whites to the shaker. Shake ingredients for 30 seconds without ice.
3. Add ice and shake again until the ingredients are chilled.
4. Strain into glass. 
    

2. Something for Everyone

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher or punch bowl and stir well. Serve over ice cubes if desired.

3. Something With a Hint of Lemon

Instructions:

1. Shake over ice, then roll.
2. Top off with Lemon Moscato & Prosecco, and roll.
3. Strain into Collins glass over crushed ice.
4. Garnish with mint sprig & cranberries.
    

4. Something Cozy

Instructions:

1. Then rim a rocks glass with chocolate syrup and dip in graham cracker crumbs.
2. Add burnt sugar syrup, graham cracker-infused whiskey, and a few dashes of chocolate bitters to the glass. Carefully lower in a large ice cube.
3. Skewer marshmallows on a cocktail pick and toast them with a lighter or kitchen blowtorch. Place the skewer on top of the glass.
    

5. Something for the Pumpkin Lovers

Instructions: 

1. Place all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously.
2. Strain ingredients over ice in a rocks glass.   
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.  
    

6. Something Refreshing

Instructions:

1. Add fresh cranberries into a cocktail shaker and muddle. Then add a few mint leaves to the shaker too.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and shake with plenty of ice.
3. Fill a highball glass with ice and strain the drink into the glass.
4. Garnish with fresh cranberries, slapped mint leaves, and a sprig of mint.
    

7. Something for the Tequila Enthusiasts

Instructions:

Garnish with Apple Slice and Star Anise.
 

8. Something for Santa

Instructions:

1. Add pomegranate seeds, apples, and figs to a larger pitcher filled with ice.
2. Top with pomegranate juice, brandy, and Prosecco.
    

9. Something Sparkling

Instructions:

1. Add vodka, pomegranate juice, maple syrup, and bitters to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Smack the sprig of rosemary between your palms to release its oils and add to the shaker
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Pour into a glass of your choice filled with ice, and top with sparkling wine.
5. Sprinkle in the pomegranate arils and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
    

10. Something to Warm Your Soul

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Remember not to boil, and just whisk until smooth and creamy.
2. When fully incorporated, remove from heat and add the whiskey.
3. Serve the mixture in cups and top with whipped cream. Cinnamon or cocoa powder sprinkle, optional.