The holiday season is a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness—and nothing brings people together like a festive cocktail. For restaurant and bar owners, holiday-themed drinks aren't just a fun addition to your menu; they're a way to attract new patrons, boost sales, and offer returning customers a memorable holiday experience. With that in mind, let's mix things up, shall we?
Peppermint White Russian
Put a holiday twist on a classic White Russian with peppermint syrup and crushed candy canes as a garnish.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 2 oz heavy cream
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine vodka, peppermint schnapps, and coffee liqueur in a shaker over ice.
- Shake well and strain into a glass of ice.
- Slowly pour heavy cream on top, allowing it to swirl naturally.
- Use crushed candy canes to garnish the rim.
Warm Spiced Mulled Wine
Nothing says the holidays like the comforting aroma of mulled wine. Perfect for a winter evening, this option is simple to make in large batches.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 2 oranges (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar
- Star anise for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Heat on low, stirring occasionally. Don’t allow it to boil.
- Serve warm, garnished with a star anise or orange slice.
Cranberry Gin Fizz
Light, bright, and oh-so-refreshing, this cocktail adds a pop of holiday flair to your menu.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine gin, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a highball glass over fresh ice.
- Top it off with club soda, and use fresh cranberries for garnish.
Eggnog Martini
This elevated take on eggnog is creamy, decadent, and perfect for wowing your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz eggnog
- 1.5 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz amaretto
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions:
- Shake eggnog, vodka, and amaretto with ice until well-chilled.
- Strain into a martini glass and sprinkle nutmeg on top.
Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate
Keep it cozy with this indulgent hot chocolate spiked with a hint of peppermint schnapps and topped with toasted marshmallows.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz peppermint schnapps
- 6 oz hot chocolate
- Whipped cream
- Toasted marshmallows for garnish
Instructions:
- Pour hot chocolate into a cup and stir in peppermint schnapps.
- Top with whipped cream and toasted marshmallows.
Holiday Sangria
Holiday sangria is a great option to add fruity, seasonal flavors while serving large groups.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine (or white for a crisper option)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- Sliced oranges, apples, and cranberries
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients and fruit in a pitcher.
- Allow to chill for at least two hours before serving.
Spiked Apple Cider
Offer a touch of nostalgia by spicing up traditional apple cider.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 oz spiced rum
- 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup
- Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat apple cider, cinnamon syrup, and spiced rum in a pot.
- Pour into a cup and garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.
Nothing captures the spirit of the holidays like a thoughtfully curated cocktail. By offering festive, Instagram-worthy drinks tailored to the season, you can create memorable experiences for your customers and drive more patrons to your establishment.
Since 2005, Quikstone Capital Solutions has been a trusted advisor to thousands of merchants. Quikstone provides these merchants with easy, fast, and flexible working capital for all their business needs. If you need cash for your business, contact us today. We have only one goal: to help your business succeed.
