8 Winter Cocktails That Will Get You Feeling Festive

We've all done it—thought we had one more pack of instant hot chocolate mix, only to find it was mixed up and eaten long ago. Instead of sighing, create a batch on the stove with creamy whole milk, luscious semisweet chocolate chips, and a little whiskey to warm you.

Spiked Hot Chocolate

Make your home smell like Christmas instead of looking like it. Swedish glugg is less sweet than mulled wine. Ginger and white rum moderate the sweetness, giving this festive drink spice and warmth.

Glögg

Sangria, made in a large pitcher and ready ahead, is a great holiday cocktail. While you prepare, guests can enjoy a festive cocktail. This holiday-inspired recipe uses tart cranberries and toasty cinnamon.

Cranberry-Apple Sangria

The beverage looks festive and tastes like gingerbread cookies if you close your eyes. The handmade gingerbread simple syrup shines in this martini.

Gingerbread Martini

This sugar-free Christmas punch uses apple cider for sweetness. Ginger beer and unsweetened cranberry juice make a refined, festive punch for your next holiday party.

Christmas Punch

Make a martini from your favorite winter indulgence, frozen hot chocolate. Simple frozen hot chocolate uses pre-made hot chocolate mix and is blended for a festive after-dinner drink!

Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini

Wassail, a warm, spiced drink, is served during the old English Yuletide ritual. Gatherers formerly sang and gave gifts of mulled cider, ale, or wine. Delicious and festive!

Wassail

The Old Fashioned is a bourbon lover's drink—oaky, sweet, and citrusy. This traditional drink simply requires sugar, bitters, and a huge ice cube.

Old Fashioned Cocktail