As the winter nights grow longer and the temperature drops, there's no better way to warm up than with a delicious Christmas bourbon cocktail. The rich, velvety texture and deep, complex flavors of bourbon make it the perfect base for a variety of festive drinks that are sure to become new holiday traditions. Whether you're entertaining a crowd or just looking for a special way to unwind after a long day, these Christmas bourbon cocktails are sure to hit the spot.
Bourbon's popularity has been on the rise in recent years, and it's easy to see why. With its rich, smooth flavor and versatility in mixing, bourbon is the perfect spirit for sipping on its own or using as a base for a variety of delicious cocktails. And when it comes to Christmas, bourbon takes on a special significance. From the warm, spicy flavors of a bourbon-based eggnog to the tangy, citrusy zing of a bourbon sour, there's a Christmas bourbon cocktail out there for everyone.
The Best Christmas Bourbon Cocktails
In this article, we'll explore some of the best Christmas bourbon cocktails out there, from classic drinks like the bourbon old fashioned to more modern creations like the bourbon cranberry spritzer. Whether you're a bourbon newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, we've got you covered.
Bourbon Old Fashioned
The bourbon old fashioned is a classic cocktail that's perfect for the holiday season. Made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, this drink is a masterclass in balance and flavor.
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 sugar cube (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass, place the sugar cube and add a small amount of water to the glass. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the sugar until it dissolves.
- Add the bourbon and bitters to the mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel.
Bourbon Eggnog
Bourbon eggnog is a delicious and creamy holiday drink that's perfect for sipping by the fire. Made with bourbon, eggnog, and a touch of nutmeg, this drink is a holiday tradition waiting to happen.
- 2 oz bourbon
- 4 oz eggnog
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, eggnog, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Bourbon Cranberry Spritzer
The bourbon cranberry spritzer is a refreshing and fruity holiday drink that's perfect for sipping at a party. Made with bourbon, cranberry juice, and a splash of lime, this drink is a modern twist on the classic bourbon cocktail.
- 2 oz bourbon
- 4 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Splash of soda water
- Lime wheel (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a wine glass filled with ice.
- Top the drink off with a splash of soda water.
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
Bourbon Apple Cider
Bourbon apple cider is a delicious and warming holiday drink that's perfect for sipping on a cold winter night. Made with bourbon, apple cider, and a touch of cinnamon, this drink is a holiday tradition waiting to happen.
- 2 oz bourbon
- 4 oz apple cider
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Conclusion
Christmas bourbon cocktails are a delicious and festive way to warm up on a cold winter night. From classic drinks like the bourbon old fashioned to more modern creations like the bourbon cranberry spritzer, there's a Christmas bourbon cocktail out there for everyone. Whether you're entertaining a crowd or just looking for a special way to unwind after a long day, these Christmas bourbon cocktails are sure to hit the spot.
We hope you've enjoyed this article on Christmas bourbon cocktails. Whether you're a bourbon newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, we hope you've found some inspiration for your next holiday gathering. So go ahead, get creative, and start mixing up some delicious Christmas bourbon cocktails today!
What is the best bourbon for Christmas cocktails?
+The best bourbon for Christmas cocktails is a matter of personal preference. Some popular bourbons for mixing include Maker's Mark, Jim Beam, and Woodford Reserve.
How do I make a bourbon eggnog?
+To make a bourbon eggnog, combine 2 oz bourbon, 4 oz eggnog, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves in a cocktail shaker. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
+Bourbon and whiskey are both types of distilled spirits made from fermented grain mash. However, bourbon is made from at least 51% corn mash and is aged in new, charred oak barrels, whereas whiskey can be made from a variety of grains and aged in different types of barrels.