close up of sangria cocktail

Making Spirits Bright

Publish Date October 24, 2024 1 Minute Read
Author MyMagazine Staff

Delight guests with seasonally-inspired flavors like sweet candy canes, decadent chocolate, tart cranberries and comforting apple cider. Prepare these large-format batches ahead of time to ensure effortless hosting. When guests arrive, they can pour, ladle or shake their drinks themselves — in other words, they mix and you mingle! We’ve also included simple nonalcoholic swaps so everyone can raise a glass and join the cheer this season.

Batch Chocolate Peppermint Martinis

Batch Chocolate Peppermint Martini

Who could’ve guessed you can batch a martini? This make-ahead option makes it easy to be bartender and host for the night.

Nonalcoholic Chocolate Peppermint Martini

Batch Spiced Hot Toddy

Batch Spiced Hot Toddy

Fresh spices and a touch of honey take this cozy classic to new levels.

Batch Spiced Nonalcoholic Hot Toddy

 Batch Cranberry-Pomegranate Sangria

Batch Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria

Simple garnishes make this sangria a stunning seasonal sipper.

Nonalcoholic Batch Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria

All the Trimmings

Easy garnishes that bring the holiday magic:

cinnamon sticks and chocolate shavings

Cinnamon Sticks

Aromatic and visually appealing, cinnamon sticks can be added to warm drinks like mulled wine or cider.

Chocolate Shavings

These add a dessert-like indulgence especially when paired with peppermint or orange flavors.

orange peels and pomegranate seeds

Orange Peels

Orange peels add a citrusy aroma and an extra touch of elegance when twisted or cut into fun shapes.

Pomegranate Seeds

Offering a jewel-like appearance and a burst of sweet-tart flavor, pomegranate seeds are a beautiful holiday garnish.

rosemary sprigs and star anise

Rosemary Sprigs

These fragrant additions also add an herbal note and resemble miniature Christmas trees.

Star Anise

With a unique star shape and sweet, licorice-like flavor, star anise can be floated on top of cocktails.

edible gold leaf and candy canes

Edible Gold Leaf

Small flakes of edible gold leaf can be used to create a shimmering effect.

Candy Canes

Crushed or whole, candy canes make a minty, cheerful garnish.

cranberries

Cranberries

Fresh or sugared cranberries add a pop of festive red color and tart flavor.

Holiday Cocktail Ideas and Recipes

Discover drinks that are refreshing, delicious and festive, like a fruity Christmas Holiday Punch.
lineup of holiday cocktails