Posted by What better way to spread the holiday cheer than with a merry gathering and delightful beverages? As you plan your holiday party, don’t forget that drinks play a pivotal role in creating a festive atmosphere. Whether your guests prefer non-alcoholic or alcoholic options, we’ve got you covered with these five fabulous Christmas drinks that will leave everyone feeling merry and bright.
The Classic Eggnog Delight
Ah, the classic eggnog—the quintessential Christmas drink that brings joy to taste buds all around. This rich and creamy concoction has been a holiday favorite for generations. To create a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum or brandy and focus on the decadent blend of eggs, milk, sugar, and nutmeg.
Begin by separating the eggs and whisking the yolks with sugar until they turn pale and creamy. Slowly incorporate warm milk into the egg mixture, stirring gently to avoid scrambling the eggs. For an added touch of holiday spirit, sprinkle in a pinch of ground nutmeg. To make it truly indulgent, whip up some heavy cream and fold it into the eggnog base.
Optional: For those seeking a little kick of festivity, feel free to add a splash of rum, brandy, or bourbon to your eggnog. Remember to serve the alcoholic version separately from the non-alcoholic one, and label them clearly to ensure everyone’s preferences are met.
Sparkling Cranberry Punch
When it comes to Christmas, cranberries steal the spotlight with their vibrant hue and tangy flavor. Our sparkling cranberry punch combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the effervescence of ginger ale or sparkling water, creating a delightful and refreshing holiday drink that will have your guests coming back for more.
In a large punch bowl, mix together cranberry juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a touch of lemon juice to balance the flavors. For sweetness, add a splash of simple syrup or honey, adjusting to taste. Just before serving, pour in the fizzy element—either ginger ale or sparkling water—to give it that irresistible sparkle. For an eye-catching presentation, garnish the punch bowl with cranberry ice cubes, orange slices, and a sprig of fresh mint.
Optional: To turn this sparkling punch into a boozy delight, offer a selection of spirits like vodka or champagne on the side. Guests can add a splash of their preferred alcoholic beverage to personalize their drink and toast to the season.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
As the temperatures drop and snowflakes dance outside, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming mug of peppermint hot chocolate. This delightful concoction combines the richness of hot chocolate with the refreshing burst of peppermint, creating a treat that will warm both your hands and your heart.
To prepare this winter wonderland in a cup, start by heating milk on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling. Add in your favorite hot chocolate mix and stir until it dissolves completely. For that delightful hint of peppermint, crush some candy canes into fine pieces and stir them into the hot chocolate. The result? A velvety, chocolatey beverage with a refreshing twist.
To take it to the next level, top your peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, and a miniature candy cane for garnish. The aroma of chocolate and peppermint will permeate the air, inviting your guests to indulge in this decadent delight.
Optional: For those seeking an adult version of this winter treat, offer a bottle of peppermint schnapps on the side. Guests can add a splash to their hot chocolate to create a peppermint-infused cocktail that will warm them from the inside out.
Festive Apple Cider Sangria
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your holiday party, look no further than a festive apple cider sangria. This fruity and flavorful concoction combines the crispness of apples with the warm embrace of spices, creating a delightful sip that captures the essence of the season.
To prepare this non-alcoholic version, start by combining apple cider, cranberry juice, and a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice in a pitcher. Enhance the flavors with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise, allowing the spices to infuse the cider for a festive twist. Refrigerate the mixture for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
When serving, add fresh apple slices, cranberries, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon to each glass. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will make this sangria a visual and sensory delight for your guests.
Optional: For those who enjoy a boozy twist, offer a bottle of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon alongside the non-alcoholic sangria. Guests can add a splash of wine to their glass, transforming it into a spirited and sophisticated holiday drink.
Spiced Cran-Apple Mocktail
For a vibrant and aromatic mocktail that captures the essence of the holidays, look no further than the spiced cran-apple mocktail. This delightful blend of cranberry and apple juices, infused with warm spices, will transport your taste buds to a winter wonderland of flavors.
To create this enchanting mocktail, start by combining equal parts cranberry juice and apple juice in a shaker or pitcher. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick. To infuse the drink with warmth, sprinkle in a pinch of ground cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, and a touch of cloves. Shake or stir the mixture vigorously to blend the flavors.
To serve, rim the glass with sugar or cinnamon-sugar for a festive touch. Pour the spiced cran-apple mocktail into the glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of fresh apple. The combination of fruity sweetness and aromatic spices will delight your guests and transport them to a holiday paradise.
Optional: To transform this mocktail into a spirited delight, offer a selection of spirits such as vodka or spiced rum on the side. Guests can add a splash of their preferred alcohol to elevate their mocktail experience.
Conclusion
As the holiday season unfolds, it’s time to bring out the festive drinks that will make your holiday party truly memorable. Remember to embrace your creativity and add your own personal touches to these recipes. Experiment with garnishes, presentation ideas, and even variations of the ingredients to make each drink uniquely yours. Don’t forget to consider your guests’ preferences and any dietary restrictions they may have to ensure everyone can partake in the merriment.
Cheers to a joyful and memorable holiday season for all!