There’s no better time to enjoy a good bourbon cocktail than the holiday season.
Whether you’re celebrating by the Christmas tree, hosting a Christmas party, or cozying up on cold nights, bourbon’s rich, warm flavors and hints of caramel make it the perfect spirit for festive drinks.
I’m a sucker for delicious cocktails that bring the spirit of the season to life, so I’ve rounded up my favorite Christmas bourbon cocktails to share with you.
Grab a bottle of bourbon, your cocktail shaker, and let’s dive into some drinks that will make your holiday gatherings delicious!
Why Bourbon is the Perfect Holiday Spirit
Bourbon whiskey is a natural choice for the winter holidays. Its rich and bold flavor pairs beautifully with classic seasonal flavors like cinnamon, maple syrup, and orange peel.
Plus, it adds depth and complexity to any cocktail, making even simple recipes taste like they were crafted by a mixologist.
- Hints of Caramel and Vanilla: The sweet, smoky notes of bourbon complement festive ingredients like brown sugar and apple cider.
- Warm Christmas Cocktails: Bourbon’s robust profile shines in hot drinks like a hot toddy or a spiked hot chocolate.
- Versatile Base: Whether you’re making a classic old fashioned or experimenting with a modern twist, bourbon delivers a perfect balance of flavor.
Must-Try Christmas Bourbon Cocktails
Christmas Old Fashioned
This classic cocktail gets a festive twist with the addition of cranberry juice and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- ½ oz unsweetened cranberry juice
- 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp brown sugar
- Dash of angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
- Fresh cranberries
Instructions:
- In a rocks glass, muddle the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water.
- Add ice cubes and pour in bourbon and cranberry juice.
- Stir gently, garnish with orange peel and cranberries, and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for extra holiday spirit.
Cinnamon Maple Bourbon Sour
This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser at any Christmas party or Christmas dinner. The maple syrup and cinnamon add a cozy, festive vibe.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz lemon juice
- ¾ oz maple syrup
- Dash of cinnamon
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and ice to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake well and double strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a twist of orange peel.
This drink strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and warm.
Hot Toddy with a Twist
A hot toddy is a classic choice for warming up on chilly nights, and the addition of bourbon takes it to the next level.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 oz lemon juice
- Equal parts water
- Cinnamon stick and star anise for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine bourbon, honey, and lemon juice in a mug.
- Top with hot water and stir until combined.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise.
The best part? It’s incredibly soothing and a great way to unwind after tackling your holiday to-do list.
Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
For a festive drink that screams holiday cheer, this cocktail is your go-to.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine bourbon, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake until chilled and strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
Christmas Milk Punch
This creamy cocktail is a real treat and perfect for dessert or a cozy Christmas Eve by the fire.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz heavy cream or whole milk
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Dash of nutmeg
Instructions:
- Combine bourbon, cream, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake until frothy and strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Big Batch Cocktails for Festive Holiday Parties
When hosting a Christmas party, make a big batch of bourbon cocktails to save time and keep the drinks flowing.
Big Batch Bourbon Punch
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of bourbon
- 3 cups apple cider
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 1 cup ginger ale
- Orange slices, fresh cranberries, and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large punch bowl, combine bourbon, apple cider, and pomegranate juice.
- Add ginger ale just before serving for a fizzy finish.
- Float orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks for a festive presentation.
This punch is the perfect Christmas bourbon cocktail to share with a crowd.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use Quality Bourbon: A good bottle of bourbon makes all the difference. For added depth, try rye whiskey for a spicier twist.
- Chill Your Glassware: Keep your rocks glasses or mugs in the freezer for a frosty finish.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh citrus juice, like orange juice or lemon, for the best flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Garnishes: Simple touches like a maraschino cherry, orange peel, or cinnamon stick can transform a good cocktail into a great one.
How to Choose the Best Bourbon for Christmas Cocktails
When crafting the perfect Christmas bourbon cocktails, the bourbon you use can make or break your drink.
Choosing the right bottle doesn’t have to be complicated, but understanding the different flavor profiles can help you elevate your holiday cocktails to the next level.
Types of Bourbon to Consider
- Classic Bourbon Whiskey: A well-rounded bourbon with hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak is ideal for most holiday cocktail recipes. It provides a balanced base that pairs well with both sweet and spicy ingredients.
- Rye Bourbon: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, rye whiskey brings a bolder flavor that complements drinks with seasonal flavors like cinnamon or ginger.
- Small-Batch Bourbon: These bourbons often have unique flavor profiles and are perfect for impressing guests at your Christmas party.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Don’t worry if you’re sticking to a budget. Many affordable bourbons still deliver great flavor without sacrificing quality.
What to Look For in a Bourbon
- Flavor Notes: If your cocktail has sweet ingredients like maple syrup or apple cider, choose a bourbon with vanilla or toffee notes. For spicier drinks, a bourbon with more oak or rye will hold its own.
- Proof Level: A higher-proof bourbon will stand out in cocktails with mixers like ginger ale or pomegranate juice, while lower-proof bourbons work well in creamier drinks like milk punch.
- Age Statement: Older bourbons tend to have richer flavors, but even younger bourbons can shine in delicious drinks with bold ingredients.
With the holidays just around the corner, there’s no better way to bring on the cheer than with these cocktails.
Whether you’re kicking back with a Christmas old fashioned, sharing a big batch punch with friends, or warming up with a cozy hot toddy, bourbon cocktails are the perfect way to soak up the holiday spirit.
Cheers!
