Holiday Cheers: December's Cocktail & Mocktail Delights
As December ushers in the festive spirit, it's the perfect time to gather with loved ones and celebrate the holiday season. Whether you're hosting a snazzy party or enjoying a cozy evening, a well-crafted cocktail or mocktail can elevate the vibes and spread cheer among your guests. Here are some delightful recipes that capture the energy that is December’s cheer:
Cranberry Mule (Cocktail)
Ingredients:
2 oz vodka
4 oz ginger beer
2 oz cranberry juice
Fresh cranberries and rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
Pour in the vodka and cranberry juice, then top with ginger beer.
Stir gently and garnish with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Peppermint White Russian (Cocktail)
Ingredients:
1.5 oz vodka
1 oz coffee liqueur
2 oz heavy cream
Crushed candy canes for rimming the glass
Instructions:
Rim a glass with crushed candy canes by moistening the rim with water or simple syrup, then dipping it into the crushed candy canes.
Fill the glass with ice.
Pour in vodka and coffee liqueur, then add heavy cream.
Stir gently and enjoy the minty goodness!
Sparkling Pomegranate Mocktail
Ingredients:
2 oz pomegranate juice
4 oz sparkling water or soda
Fresh pomegranate seeds and mint leaves for garnish
Splash of lime juice (optional)
Instructions:
In a glass filled with ice, pour the pomegranate juice.
Add a splash of lime juice if desired.
Top it off with sparkling water or soda.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds and mint leaves for a refreshing and vibrant mocktail.
Mock Champagne Punch
Ingredients:
32 oz ginger ale or sparkling cider
32 oz white grape juice
Sliced fruits (such as strawberries, oranges, or grapes) for garnish
Instructions:
In a punch bowl or large pitcher, combine ginger ale or sparkling cider with white grape juice.
Add sliced fruits for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
Serve chilled and toast to the holiday season without the alcohol.
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate (Mocktail)
Ingredients:
8 oz hot chocolate
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground ginger
Whipped cream, cinnamon stick, and gingerbread cookie for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare hot chocolate according to your preference.
Stir in ground cinnamon and ginger.
Top with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a small gingerbread cookie for a cozy and festive treat.
These delightful December holiday cocktails and mocktails are sure to bring warmth and cheer to any gathering. Whether you opt for a spirited cocktail or a refreshing mocktail, these recipes promise to make your celebrations memorable and joyous. Cheers to a wonderful holiday season filled with good company and delicious drinks!