Family Traditions with a Twist – Turning Classic Holiday Drinks into Cocktails

The holidays are all about family, food, and cherished traditions. But even the most time-honored holiday drinks—like eggnog, cider, or hot chocolate—can be given a modern cocktail twist to keep your celebrations fresh and exciting. By adding a dash of creativity (and a splash of spirits), you can honor your family’s holiday traditions while creating new favorites to toast together.

Here are some delicious ways to transform classic holiday drinks into modern cocktails, ensuring this year’s festivities are as memorable as ever.

1. Eggnog Reimagined: Spiced Rum Eggnog

Eggnog has been a holiday staple for centuries, and while it’s delightful on its own, a touch of spiced rum brings warmth and depth to this creamy classic.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz store-bought or homemade eggnog

• 1.5 oz spiced rum

• 0.5 oz amaretto

• Freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine eggnog, spiced rum, and amaretto in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled.

2. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

Why It Works: The spiced rum adds a layer of complexity, while the amaretto brings a subtle nuttiness that enhances the holiday vibe.

2. Mulled Cider with a Kick: Apple Bourbon Mule

Warm apple cider is the definition of comfort, but turning it into a bourbon mule adds a refreshing twist that’s perfect for holiday parties.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz warm apple cider

• 1.5 oz bourbon

• 0.5 oz ginger syrup (or ginger beer for a cold version)

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine apple cider, bourbon, ginger syrup, and lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake briefly and strain into a mule mug filled with ice (or serve warm in a heat-safe mug).

2. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.

Why It Works: The rich, caramel notes of bourbon complement the spiced cider, while ginger adds a zesty kick.

3. Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini

Hot chocolate is a family favorite, but when spiked with peppermint vodka, it becomes a sophisticated cocktail perfect for sipping by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz peppermint vodka

• 4 oz hot chocolate (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 oz heavy cream

• Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare your hot chocolate and let it cool slightly.

2. In a shaker with ice, combine hot chocolate, peppermint vodka, and heavy cream. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

3. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.

Why It Works: The creamy, chocolatey base pairs beautifully with the cool peppermint for a festive and indulgent drink.

4. Cranberry Sauce Sangria

Put leftover cranberry sauce to good use by turning it into the star ingredient for a holiday-inspired sangria.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine (750 ml)

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce

• 1/4 cup orange liqueur

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• Sliced oranges, apples, and fresh cranberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine, cranberry sauce, orange liqueur, and orange juice. Stir until the cranberry sauce dissolves.

2. Add sliced fruit and cranberries. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving over ice.

Why It Works: This creative use of cranberry sauce turns a family tradition into a crowd-pleasing holiday cocktail with a burst of tart fruit flavors.

5. Gingerbread Espresso Martini

The flavors of gingerbread and coffee combine in this modern cocktail, bringing a festive twist to an after-dinner classic.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz vodka

• 1 oz coffee liqueur

• 1 oz cold brew coffee

• 0.5 oz gingerbread syrup (store-bought or homemade)

• Whipped cream and gingerbread cookie for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine vodka, coffee liqueur, cold brew, and gingerbread syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass.

2. Garnish with whipped cream and a gingerbread cookie.

Why It Works: The rich coffee flavor balances the sweetness of gingerbread, creating a sophisticated yet festive drink.

Craft the Perfect Holiday Cocktails with Art of the Cocktail

Ready to elevate your holiday gatherings? Whether you’re hosting family or friends, Art of the Cocktail mixologists can help you craft memorable, modern twists on your favorite holiday drinks.

Book us today for your next holiday event, or give the gift of an Art of the Cocktail class so your loved ones can master the art of festive mixology themselves.

Cheers to Family, Traditions, and New Twists

This holiday season, embrace the joy of traditions while adding a creative twist to your favorite drinks. From Spiced Rum Eggnog to Cranberry Sauce Sangria, these cocktails will keep your celebrations festive and full of cheer. Book our mixologists for your holiday party.