As the holiday season sneaks up on us with twinkling Christmas tree lights, chestnuts roasting, and Hanukkah candles glistening, there’s one detail that can up the ante on your gathering: cocktails!

Whether you’re hosting a festive soirée or a cozy night with loved ones, these holiday-inspired drinks will take your gathering to the next level. Impress your parents, charm your partner, and make your friends rave about your hosting skills. Plus, if you’re inspired, why not host a Hanukkah Party or Christmas Party with these drinks as the star of the show?

Candy Cane Espresso Martini

Courtesy of @stevenfingar

Because no cocktail list is complete without an espresso martini! This peppermint twist on the classic is sure to be a crowd favorite. Perfect for a Christmas party with a touch of chic sophistication.

Ingredients (per serving):

• 2 oz reposado tequila
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz fresh espresso (cooled)
• 1/2 oz peppermint syrup
• 3 dashes of cocoa bitters
• Candy cane (for garnish)

Directions:
Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled. Double strain into a glass, then garnish with crushed peppermint and a candy cane.

Pro tip: Pair this with festive décor for a magical evening—need ideas? Check out our Old World Christmas hosting blueprint!

Grinch Margarita

Courtesy of @join_jules

Feeling a bit grinchy? This cucumber-infused margarita will turn your frown upside down with a refreshing, zesty twist. Add this to your Christmas cocktail lineup for some festive sass.

To a pitcher, combine:

• 1 cup Grinch Mix (see recipe below)
• 3/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup agave syrup
• 3/4 cup Cointreau
• 1/2 cup verde chile liqueur (optional)
• 1/2 cup filtered water

Directions:
Mix well, pour over ice, and garnish with something red—because even the Grinch has a heart!

Hosting Tip: Set the tone with green and red décor for a holly-jolly, sassy vibe. Ready to plan your Naughty & Nice Christmas? Use this blueprint.

Latketini

Courtesy of @cocktails

If you’re planning a Vodka and Latkes Hanukkah Party (and you should), this vodka-based cocktail is an absolute must. It’s quirky, delicious, and perfectly themed.

Ingredients:

• Apple vodka
• Lemon juice
• Half & half
• Applesauce

Directions:
Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass rimmed with crushed potato chips (yes, really). Trust us—it’s a Hanukkah miracle in a glass!

Christmas Tree Farm 75

Courtesy of @nikki.sips

This festive twist on a French 75 is elegant and effervescent, with hints of pine to transport you straight to a snowy tree farm. Perfect for a sophisticated Christmas cocktail hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz gin
• 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Prosecco (to top)
• Edible glitter
• Christmas tree ice cubes
• Rosemary sprig and juniper berries (for garnish)

Directions:
Shake gin, elderflower, lemon juice, simple syrup, and edible glitter with ice. Strain into a glass with tree-shaped ice cubes and top with Prosecco. Garnish with rosemary and juniper berries for a whimsical touch.

Hosting a Christmas gathering? Let us help you plan every sparkling detail. Use our Scandinavian Christmas hosting blueprint.

Tubi or Not Tubi

From the menu of Jaffa Cocktail and Raw Bar in Brooklyn

If you’re trying to get lit this Hanukkah, turn to this Israeli specialty liqueur made from fermented herbs and citrus for a bold Hanukkah cocktail. The result is something along the lines of a ginger shot with the punch and effects of a strong martini—a true showstopper for your Hanukkah celebration.

Ingredients:

• Mezcal
• Tubi
• Pomegranate juice
• Hibiscus syrup
• Lime juice

Directions:
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

Looking for an out-of-the-box Hanukkah celebration? We’re making hosting a breeze with this unique Hanukkah hosting blueprint.

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