Cheers to the season! Try these 5 easy holiday cocktails, from classic Eggnog to festive Hot Buttered Rum.

There’s nothing like a festive cocktail to bring holiday cheer! This season, impress friends and family with delicious Christmas cocktails that are easy to make. From cozy classics to fresh new ideas, here are five cocktails to try out at home.

1. Classic Eggnog with a Twist

Eggnog is a holiday favorite! This creamy drink is even better with a splash of brandy and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Perfect for cozy nights with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup cream
• 3 egg yolks
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup brandy or bourbon
• Nutmeg for topping

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk and cream on low.
2. Whisk egg yolks with sugar, then add slowly to the milk while stirring.
3. Once thick, take it off the heat and let it cool. Add brandy and pour into glasses.
4. Sprinkle nutmeg on top.

2. Cranberry Moscow Mule

This twist on a Moscow Mule adds cranberry juice for a holiday flavor! The cranberry goes perfectly with lime and ginger beer, making it light and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 2 oz cranberry juice
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer
• Fresh cranberries and rosemary for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mug or glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice, then top with ginger beer.
3. Stir and add cranberries and rosemary on top.

3. Peppermint White Russian

The White Russian gets a holiday upgrade with peppermint! This creamy cocktail is perfect if you love the taste of peppermint during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz cream
• Crushed candy cane for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps.
2. Pour in the cream and stir.
3. Garnish with crushed candy cane around the rim or on top.

4. Spiced Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a warm, spiced drink that fills your home with holiday smells. It’s easy to make for a group and great for cold nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine
• 1 sliced orange
• ¼ cup brandy
• 2-3 tbsp honey or sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3-4 cloves
• 2 star anise

Instructions:

1. In a pot, mix wine, orange slices, brandy, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
2. Simmer on low for 15-20 minutes (don’t let it boil).
3. Pour into mugs and add an orange slice or cinnamon stick.

5. Hot Buttered Rum

Hot buttered rum is a warm, rich drink that’s perfect for winter. Made with butter, spices, and dark rum, it’s a delicious holiday treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp butter
• Pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg
• 2 oz dark rum
• 4 oz hot water
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mug, mix brown sugar, butter, and spices.
2. Pour in the rum and hot water, stirring until the butter melts.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and enjoy!

Placement International Can Boost Your Hospitality Skills

At Placement International, we know that creating special experiences—whether through cocktails or great service—is essential in hospitality. Our programs connect you with top hotels and restaurants worldwide, where you’ll learn hands-on skills and grow your expertise.

Ready to level up your hospitality career? Apply here!