December 19th Christmas Countdown

Festive Drinks – Holiday-Themed Mocktails for the Family (and Boozy Twists for the Grown-Ups!)

It’s December 19, and I’m absolutely embracing the holiday spirit! There’s just something magical about cozying up with a good mocktail or cocktail this time of year. The flavors of the season are truly my favorite! Whether you’re throwing a festive bash, enjoying a cozy family movie night, or just want to sip on something that brings a smile, holiday drinks are the perfect way to spread a little cheer. And the best part? Everyone can join in on the fun! I've got five delightful family-friendly mocktails that can easily be jazzed up for the grown-ups. So, let’s raise our glasses (or mugs!) and dive into some festive mixing! Cheers!

1. Cranberry Citrus Sparkler

This bright and fizzy drink is a total crowd-pleaser with its blend of tangy cranberry and refreshing citrus.

Mocktail Version:

• ½ cup cranberry juice (unsweetened for a tart kick or sweetened for kids)

• ¼ cup orange juice

• ¼ cup sparkling water or ginger ale

• Garnish: Fresh cranberries and an orange slice

Alcoholic Version:

• Add 1 oz vodka or sparkling rosé wine to each glass.

How to Make It:
Mix the juices in a glass with ice, top with sparkling water or ginger ale, and garnish. For the adult version, stir in vodka or pour over sparkling rosé before garnishing.

2. Candy Cane Hot Cocoa

What’s more festive than peppermint and chocolate? This warm drink is perfect for cozying up by the fire.

Mocktail Version:

• 1 cup hot chocolate (your favorite mix or homemade)

• ¼ tsp peppermint extract

• Garnish: Whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and a peppermint stick

Alcoholic Version:

• Add 1 oz peppermint schnapps or crème de menthe.

How to Make It:
Prepare hot chocolate and stir in peppermint extract. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes. Adults can mix in schnapps before garnishing.

3. Apple Pie Punch

This drink tastes like apple pie in a glass and can be served warm or chilled.

Mocktail Version:

• 1 cup apple cider

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

• Garnish: Cinnamon stick and apple slice

Alcoholic Version:

• Add 1 oz spiced rum or bourbon to each glass.

How to Make It:
Heat the apple cider with cinnamon and vanilla (or serve it chilled over ice). Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice. Adults can add spiced rum or bourbon for an extra kick.

4. Pomegranate Rosemary Fizz

This elegant drink is packed with holiday flavors and looks stunning on the table.

Mocktail Version:

• ½ cup pomegranate juice

• ¼ cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary (gently bruised to release flavor)

• Garnish: Pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary

Alcoholic Version:

• Add 1 oz gin or prosecco.

How to Make It:
Mix pomegranate juice and sparkling water in a glass with ice. Add the rosemary sprig and garnish with pomegranate seeds. Adults can stir in gin or use prosecco instead of sparkling water.

Pomegranate Rosemary Fizz

5. Gingerbread Eggnog

A creamy, spicy holiday classic with a gingerbread twist.

Mocktail Version:

• 1 cup store-bought or homemade eggnog

• ½ tsp gingerbread spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove)

• Garnish: Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon

Alcoholic Version:

• Add 1 oz spiced rum, bourbon, or Irish cream liqueur.

How to Make It:
Stir the gingerbread spice into the eggnog and top with whipped cream. Adults can mix in spiced rum, bourbon, or Irish cream before garnishing.

Cheers to the Holidays!

These drinks are simple, festive, and versatile enough for any gathering. Whether you’re serving a room full of kids or clinking glasses with friends, these holiday mocktails and cocktails will keep the spirit bright.

What’s your go-to holiday drink? Let me know if you try any of these—cheers and happy holidays! 🎄🍹