Holiday gatherings are the perfect time to enjoy festive drinks that bring warmth and cheer. Whether you’re hosting a cozy night in or a lively party, having the right cocktails can make all the difference. These Christmas holiday drinks combine classic flavors with easy preparation, so you can spend less time mixing and more time celebrating with loved ones.
Classic Old Fashioned With a Holiday Twist
The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail, and the holidays are a great excuse to give it a seasonal upgrade. Using a ready-made syrup, Proof Syrup’s Pumpkin Spice or Maple Bacon flavors makes it simple to add festive notes without extra fuss. This cocktail not only warms the soul but also fills the air with a delightful aroma, making it the perfect drink for cozy gatherings and festive celebrations.
How to Make a Holiday Old Fashioned
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 0.5 oz Pumpkin Spice or Maple Bacon Proof Syrup
- Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish
Combine whiskey and syrup in a glass with ice. Stir gently to blend. Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick for that warm holiday aroma. The syrup already includes spices like cinnamon and clove, so there’s no need for extra bitters or sugar. For an added touch, consider infusing your whiskey with additional spices by letting it sit with a few whole cloves or a star anise for a couple of hours before mixing. This extra step can elevate the flavor profile, making your Holiday Old Fashioned even more memorable.
Why Use Proof Syrup?
Proof Syrup’s syrups are crafted with natural ingredients and no preservatives, preserving authentic flavors. Their Pumpkin Spice syrup lasts up to two years unopened, so you can keep it on hand for holiday seasons to come. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it accommodating for many dietary needs. The versatility of these syrups also allows for experimentation; try mixing them into coffee or drizzling them over desserts for a festive flair. With the right ingredients, you can create a variety of holiday-themed drinks that will impress your guests and keep the spirit of the season alive long after the last toast.
Festive Citrus Cocktails for Brightening the Season
Citrus flavors add a fresh, zesty brightness to holiday drinks that balance the richness of winter meals and desserts. Proof Syrup’s Orange and Citrus Sour syrups are perfect for quick cocktails that still feel special. The vibrant colors and invigorating aromas of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes not only enhance the visual appeal of your drinks but also evoke feelings of warmth and cheer, making them a perfect fit for the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening, these cocktails can elevate the mood and bring a burst of flavor to your celebrations.
Simple Citrus Sour Cocktail
- 2 oz gin or vodka
- 0.75 oz Citrus Sour Proof Syrup
- Club soda or sparkling water
- Lemon wheel or fresh mint for garnish
Shake the spirit and syrup with ice, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with a splash of club soda for a refreshing fizz. Garnish with a lemon wheel or mint sprig. This cocktail is light, easy to drink, and perfect for guests who prefer something less sweet. The combination of the herbal notes from the gin or the clean finish of vodka with the tangy citrus syrup creates a delightful balance that’s sure to please. For an extra twist, consider adding a dash of bitters or a splash of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor profile.
Brighten Up With Orange Spritz
Mix orange syrup with sparkling wine or prosecco for an instant holiday spritz. This bubbly drink is festive and elegant, ideal for toasting at any holiday gathering. The effervescence of the sparkling wine, combined with the sweet and tangy notes of the orange syrup, creates a refreshing, uplifting experience. You can elevate this drink further by adding slices of fresh orange or a few pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. The result is a visually stunning cocktail that captures the essence of the season, making it a perfect choice for holiday brunches or evening celebrations.
Warm and Cozy Cocktails for Cold Nights
When the temperature drops, warm drinks become a natural choice. Mulled cocktails and spiced warm drinks offer comfort and festive aromas that fill the room with holiday spirit.
Spiced Hot Toddy
- 1.5 oz whiskey
- 1 oz Honey Proof Syrup
- Hot water
- Lemon slice and cinnamon stick
Pour whiskey and honey syrup into a mug. Fill with hot water and stir. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick. The honey syrup is vegan-friendly and adds natural sweetness without overpowering the whiskey’s warmth.
Mulled Wine With a Twist
Heat red wine gently with a splash of Pomegranate Proof Syrup, a few cloves, and orange slices. This syrup has a shelf life of three months once opened, so make sure to use it fresh for the best flavor. Serve warm for a rich, fruity holiday drink.
Non-Alcoholic Options That Everyone Will Love
Not everyone drinks alcohol, but everyone can enjoy a festive cocktail. Using syrups like Hibiscus, Lavender, or Rosemary from Proof Syrup creates sophisticated mocktails that feel just as special.
Hibiscus Sparkler
- 1 oz Hibiscus Proof Syrup
- Sparkling water
- Fresh lime wedge
Fill a glass with ice, add hibiscus syrup, and top with sparkling water. Squeeze in fresh lime for a tangy finish. This drink is vibrant, floral, and naturally gluten-free.
Lavender Lemonade
Mix Lavender Proof Syrup with fresh lemonade and garnish with a sprig of lavender or a lemon slice. This calming, fragrant drink is perfect for all ages and adds a touch of elegance to any holiday table.
Tips for Serving and Storing Holiday Syrups
To keep your holiday drinks tasting their best, proper storage and serving techniques are key.
Storage Guidelines
- Proof Syrups do not require refrigeration before opening.
- Once opened, store syrups in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Use syrups within their recommended shelf life: Old Fashioned syrups last up to two years unopened, while fruit or herbal syrups like Hibiscus or Pomegranate last shorter periods.
Serving Suggestions
Shake syrups well before use to blend natural ingredients. Use fresh garnishes like citrus peels, herbs, or spices to enhance aroma and presentation. These small touches make your drinks feel crafted and festive without extra effort.
Make Your Holiday Toast Memorable
Holiday drinks are more than just beverages. They set the mood, bring people together, and create lasting memories. Using quality syrups like those from Proof Syrup simplifies cocktail making and ensures every sip tastes like the holidays.
Explore their wide range of flavors to find your perfect holiday cocktail companion. Whether you prefer classic Old Fashioneds, bright citrus drinks, warm spiced cocktails, or elegant mocktails, there’s a syrup ready to make your celebrations shine.
Ready to Elevate Your Holiday Celebrations?
Don't wait to make your holiday gatherings unforgettable with the perfect cocktail. At Proof Syrup, we provide you with all-natural, craft-quality syrups that transform your home bartending experience. Whether you're toasting with a classic Old Fashioned or sipping on a warm spiced concoction, our syrups make it easy to create impressive cocktails that everyone will love. Shop Now and bring the joy of expertly crafted drinks to your festive celebrations.