Christmas Cocktails to kick off the festivities

Creating your own signature cocktail is a great way to kick off the festive season at home. Whether you enjoy a cheeky tipple or a non alcoholic winter warmer we have a few great recipes to set the scene with our favourite Christmas colours, sights and smells.

CHRISTMAS MARTINI

Looking for a memorable signature Christmas cocktail? This Christmas martini is where it’s at: Sweet tart, drinkable and beautifully festive! This martini is the perfect fit for entertaining.

It’s easy to mix up and the colour is beautifully brilliant from the cranberry juice. You can also make it as a pitcher for easy prep.

Ingredients:

• Cranberry juice: 100 per-cent unsweetened
• Vodka
• Orange Liqueur
• Lemon juice
• Maple syrup

CHRISTMAS PUNCH

Need a great non-alcoholic punch recipe for the holidays? This Christmas punch is fruity and delicious with a little sparkle from ginger ale. The best part? Garnish it up with sliced citrus, rosemary sprigs and cranberries. It couldn’t be more festive or beautiful.

Ingredients:

• Cranberry 100 per-cent juice blend
• Pineapple juice
• Ginger ale 

HOT BUTTERED RUM

Here’s a drink that’s ideal for sipping by the fire on a chilly evening – Hot Buttered Rum! Even just saying the name makes you warm inside.

Ingredients:

• Salted butter
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, and all-spice
• Dark rum
• Boiling water

SPICED HOT CHOCOLATE

Want a cosy winter drink that warms you from the inside out? There’s nothing better at taking the chill off than a homemade spiced hot chocolate recipe.

This mug of liquid cocoa is rich and creamy, with an intense depth in chocolate flavour. Top with cream and a gingerbread man or pop in a candy cane for a peppermint touch.

Ingredients:

• Cocoa powder
• Semi-skim milk (or oat milk)
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• Optional toppings: Cream and a candy cane, or gingerbread cookie

For the alcoholic version popular liquor to add: Aged or dark rum, Bourbon, Creme de menthe or peppermint schnapps, Baileys, or Kahlua. A hint of aged rum or bourbon gives it a warming complexity with notes of vanilla and oak. Or, add creme de menthe for a smooth peppermint flavour.

TOASTY APPLE CIDER

There’s something about the combination of sweet cinnamon and cloves with the subtle spicy finish of rum or bourbon that’s absolutely soul warming. Served warm, the liquor melds seamlessly into the hot cider, making a smooth sip and a cosy finish.

Ingredients:

• High-quality apple cider 
• Whole spices: cinnamon, cloves, and star anise
• Bourbon or rum 

Have fun getting creative with your festive cocktail’s this Christmas and remember to enjoy alcohol responsibly.