Discover delicious hot Christmas cocktail recipes to enjoy this holiday season. Sip, savor, and celebrate responsibly!
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve!
Here, we believe every cocktail tells a story, and we’re here to help you shake, sip, and serve your way through the world of creative drinks and unforgettable bar experiences.
Whether you’re an aspiring mixologist, a seasoned bartender, or just someone who loves a perfectly crafted drink, you’ve come to the right place. Grab your shaker and let’s dive into today’s mix—because life’s too short for bad cocktails!
Warm Christmas cocktails are the perfect way to embrace the season, combining timeless flavours like cinnamon, cloves, and citrus with creative twists that elevate the holiday experience.
Whether you’re a novice mixologist or a seasoned shaker, these 15 recipes will guide you through a merry mix of classic drinks and exciting innovations. Each sip tells a story and brings joy to the festive table. Let’s dive in!
1. Classic Mulled Wine
Transport yourself to a European Christmas market with this traditional favourite.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of dry red wine (Merlot or Shiraz)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 3 star anise
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ cup brandy
Method
- Combine all ingredients except the brandy in a large saucepan.
- Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Do not boil.
- Stir in the brandy just before serving. Strain and pour into heatproof glasses.
- Garnish with a slice of orange and a cinnamon stick.
2. Hot Buttered Rum
Rich, creamy, and indulgent, this is a perfect fireside treat.
Ingredients
- 60ml dark rum
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove
- 200ml boiling water
Method
- In a mug, combine the butter, sugar, and spices.
- Pour in the boiling water and stir until the butter melts.
- Add the rum, mix well, and serve immediately.
3. Gingerbread Hot Toddy
A spiced twist on the classic hot toddy, perfect for ginger lovers.
Ingredients
- 60ml bourbon or dark rum
- 1 tbsp gingerbread syrup
- 1 tsp honey
- 200ml hot water
- Slice of fresh ginger
Method
- Mix the syrup, honey, and hot water in a heatproof mug.
- Add the bourbon or rum and stir.
- Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger and a cinnamon stick.
4. Eggnog Latte
Combine two festive favourites: eggnog and coffee!
Ingredients
- 150ml eggnog
- 100ml milk
- 1 shot of espresso
- Pinch of nutmeg
Method
- Heat the eggnog and milk in a saucepan, whisking lightly until frothy.
- Pour the espresso into a glass, top with the frothy mixture, and sprinkle with nutmeg.
5. Spiced Apple Cider
A fragrant and warming non-alcoholic option (or add a splash of spirit for extra cheer).
Ingredients
- 1L apple cider
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 star anise
- 5 cloves
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
Method
- Simmer all ingredients in a saucepan for 15 minutes.
- Strain and serve warm. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of orange.
6. Hot Gin Punch
This unconventional warm cocktail is a citrusy, spicy delight.
Ingredients
- 60ml gin
- 200ml hot water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch of allspice
Method
- Mix all ingredients in a heatproof mug and stir until well combined.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a star anise.
7. Chili-Spiked Hot Chocolate
Add a fiery kick to your classic hot chocolate.
Ingredients
- 200ml milk
- 50g dark chocolate, chopped
- 30ml chili-infused whiskey
- Whipped cream (optional)
Method
- Heat the milk in a saucepan, then stir in the chocolate until melted.
- Add the whiskey and stir.
- Serve in a mug topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
8. Warm Cherry Brandy Punch
A rich, fruity cocktail with festive flair.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry brandy
- 2 cups red wine
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 tbsp sugar
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat gently.
- Serve warm in small punch cups with an orange slice for garnish.
9. Coconut Rum Hot Chocolate
A tropical take on a holiday classic.
Ingredients
- 200ml coconut milk
- 50g milk chocolate, chopped
- 30ml coconut rum
- Toasted coconut flakes
Method
- Heat the coconut milk and chocolate in a saucepan until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the coconut rum and pour into a mug.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
10. Peppermint Mocha
Cool mint meets warm chocolate for a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
- 200ml milk
- 50g dark chocolate
- 1 shot of espresso
- 30ml peppermint schnapps
Method
- Heat the milk and chocolate, stirring until melted.
- Add the espresso and schnapps, then pour into a mug.
- Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.
11. Hot Sangria
A twist on the summer favourite, this warm sangria is ideal for winter nights.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine
- ½ cup brandy
- 2 oranges, sliced
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat gently.
- Strain and serve warm, garnished with an orange slice.
12. Honey Lemon Hot Toddy
Simple, soothing, and oh-so-comforting.
Ingredients
- 60ml whiskey
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 200ml hot water
Method
- Mix honey and lemon juice in a mug.
- Add the whiskey and top with hot water. Stir and garnish with a lemon slice.
13. Warm Amaretto Cider
The almond notes of amaretto perfectly complement spiced apple cider.
Ingredients
- 200ml apple cider
- 30ml amaretto
- Cinnamon stick
Method
- Heat the cider gently in a saucepan.
- Stir in the amaretto and pour into a mug.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
14. Spiced White Wine
A lighter alternative to traditional mulled wine.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of dry white wine
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 star anise
- 3 tbsp honey
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat gently.
- Serve warm with a slice of lemon for garnish.
15. Hot Maple Bourbon
A sweet and smoky drink to end the night.
Ingredients
- 60ml bourbon
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 200ml hot water
- Slice of orange
Method
- Combine bourbon, maple syrup, and hot water in a mug.
- Stir and garnish with an orange slice.
These recipes are designed to bring joy, warmth, and a touch of adventure to your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re sipping a hot gin punch or indulging in a rich peppermint mocha, each drink is a toast to the festive season. Cheers to a merry and bright Christmas filled with delicious moments!
Thanks for joining us behind the bar! Whether you’re crafting for yourself or shaking things up for friends, remember: it’s not just about the drink, but the memories we make while we sip. Keep experimenting, keep pouring with love, and don’t forget to check back at Shake, Sip, Serve for more inspiration. Cheers to the next round!
Your Favourite Bartender KAD xo
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