Celebrate the Season with These Festive Drink Recipes
The holiday season is here, and that means it's time to celebrate! One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is by enjoying a festive drink. Whether you prefer something warm and cozy or something bright and refreshing, there's a holiday drink out there for everyone. In this article, we'll share our favorite festive drink recipes that are perfect for any holiday gathering.
Spiked Eggnog
No holiday celebration is complete without eggnog. This classic drink is rich, creamy, and perfect for a cold winter's night. To make a spiked eggnog, you'll need:
- 4 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of bourbon or rum
In a saucepan, warm the milk, cream, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Remove from the heat and stir in the bourbon or rum. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a classic holiday drink that's perfect for serving at any gathering. To make mulled wine, you'll need:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/2 cup of brandy or rum
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 2 star anise pods
In a large pot, combine all of the ingredients and bring to a simmer over low heat. Let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve warm, garnished with a slice of orange or lemon.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot buttered rum is a cozy and comforting drink that's perfect for sipping by the fire. To make hot buttered rum, you'll need:
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of hot water
- 2 cups of dark rum
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and spices. Add the hot water and stir until the butter has melted. Add the rum and stir to combine. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick.
Cranberry Sparkler
If you're looking for a festive and refreshing drink, try a cranberry sparkler. To make a cranberry sparkler, you'll need:
- 1 cup of cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/2 cup of ginger ale
- Sparkling wine
In a pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale. Stir to combine. Fill champagne flutes halfway with the juice mixture and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a slice of orange or a sprig of rosemary.
Peppermint Mocha
For those who love a good holiday coffee, try a peppermint mocha. To make a peppermint mocha, you'll need:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract
- Whipped cream
- Crushed candy canes
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and peppermint extract, stirring until everything is well combined. Add the espresso and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into a mug and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.
In conclusion, these festive drink recipes are perfect for any holiday celebration. From classic eggnog to refreshing cranberry sparklers, there's a drink out there for everyone. So put on some holiday music, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a delicious drink together. Cheers to a wonderful holiday season!