This festive cocktail is perfect for holiday cheer! With a blend of sweet flavors and a hint of spice, it’s sure to warm your heart and your spirits. Cheers to merry moments!
I love making a big batch for gatherings, so everyone can enjoy a glass (or two!). Just remember, the more, the merrier—both in drinks and company! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: These spirits give the cocktail a warm, rich flavor. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider using a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or ginger ale for a fun twist.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart kick. Sweetened cranberry juice is fine too, but just be careful with the syrup! You can also use pomegranate juice for a different fruity vibe.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau and Triple Sec are great for adding sweetness and orange flavor. If you need a non-alcoholic version, try orange soda or a splash of orange juice mixed with soda water.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh is best! Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it doesn’t have that vibrant taste. Just remember, the fresher the juice, the better the cocktail!
Simple Syrup: This is easy to make at home. Just mix equal parts water and sugar until dissolved. If you’re avoiding sugar, you can use agave syrup or honey as a substitute, adjusting to taste.
How Can You Garnish Like a Pro?
The garnish is the finishing touch that makes this cocktail stand out. You want it to look festive and appealing! Here’s how to jazz it up:
- Use fresh rosemary or a small pine sprig as a natural, aromatic garnish. It adds a lovely holiday scent.
- For cranberry skewers, thread fresh cranberries onto a skewer—this not only looks cute but adds a nice pop of color!
- If you’re feeling fancy, dust the cranberries with powdered sugar. It gives them a sparkling touch that can brighten up your drink.
Creating a beautiful garnish elevates the drink and is a fun way to get creative. Enjoy serving this festive cocktail!
Kris Kringle’s Jingle Batch Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes or crushed ice
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Sprigs of rosemary or pine (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and festive drink for your holiday gathering. Just mix, serve, and enjoy the cheers all around!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cocktail Base:
In a large pitcher or mixing bowl, carefully combine the bourbon or rye whiskey, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir gently to mix everything well. This base is the heart of your holiday drink!
2. Prepare the Glasses:
Fill short glasses with crushed ice or ice cubes, depending on your preference. The ice will keep your drink cold and refreshing as you sip it.
3. Pour the Drink:
Pour the cocktail mixture over the ice in each glass. Make sure everyone gets an equal share of that delicious mixture!
4. Add Festive Garnishes:
For a lovely finish, garnish each drink with a sprig of rosemary or pine. Then, add a skewer of fresh cranberries on top. For an extra touch of sweetness, lightly dust the cranberries with powdered sugar.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the cocktails immediately while they’re cold, and watch as your guests enjoy the vibrant flavors that capture the spirit of the holidays!
This cocktail balances the warmth of whiskey with tart cranberry notes and bright citrus, making it a perfect choice for holiday celebrations and joyful gatherings. Cheers!
Can I Use a Different Spirit Instead of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon or rye whiskey gives this cocktail its signature warmth, you could substitute vodka for a lighter taste or even a spiced rum for a tropical twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile!
Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Yes, you can turn this into a festive mocktail! Replace the whiskey and orange liqueur with non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives or ginger ale, and keep the cranberry juice and lemon juice. It’ll still be delicious and festive!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cocktail Mix?
If you have leftover cocktail mix (without ice), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and pour over fresh ice for the best experience!
What Other Garnishes Can I Use?
Besides cranberries and rosemary, you could add orange slices or even cinnamon sticks as garnishes. These will not only enhance the look but also add more aromatic flavors to your drink!
