Diving into the world of holiday cocktails can be a daunting task, especially for those who follow a plant-based lifestyle. As a bartender, I’ve seen firsthand how traditional recipes often rely on dairy, eggs, or other animal products that make them off-limits to vegans. But don’t worry, fellow vegans! I’ve spent countless hours scouring the internet and testing out new recipes to bring you the best vegan holiday cocktails that are not only delicious but also completely animal-free.
From classic eggnog alternatives to refreshing cranberry spritzers, there’s a drink for every taste and occasion. Not only will these cocktails impress your guests and add a unique twist to your holiday celebrations, but they’re also perfect for those looking to unwind after a long day of shopping or hosting a party. So grab your shaker, get ready to mix up some holiday magic, and let’s raise a glass to a season of joy and compassion! The best part?
You don’t have to sacrifice flavor or fun to stick to your plant-based diet.
Christmas Cosmos
Vibrant flavors and festive cheer come together in the Christmas Cosmo, a delightful twist on the classic Cosmopolitan that’s perfect for the holiday season. This refreshing vegan and gluten-free cocktail is made even more special with the addition of cranberry juice, which gives it a beautiful bright red color and a tangy flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just enjoying a quiet night in, the Christmas Cosmo is sure to be the star of the show. Its unique combination of flavors and easy-to-make ingredients make it an ideal choice for any occasion, and its holiday-themed garnish of fresh cranberries adds a lovely touch of festivity to every sip.
Vegan Coconut Nog
Delightful and creamy holiday cocktails are always in style, but finding one that’s vegan-friendly can be a challenge. Luckily, we’ve got just the thing: the Vegan Coconut Nog! This indulgent drink is not only easy to make with just seven ingredients, including rich coconut milk and warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, but it’s also perfect for sipping on while watching the snow fall or enjoying a cozy night in with friends.
Plus, its versatility makes it a great option for any holiday gathering, whether you choose to enjoy it with or without a splash of your favorite spirit. So why not try something new this holiday season and give the Vegan Coconut Nog a try? We’re confident you’ll love it!
Orange Spice Vegan Coquito
While traditional Puerto Rican Christmas drinks are often associated with creamy textures and rich flavors, the Orange Spice Vegan Coquito offers a delightful twist on this classic concept. This innovative version replaces dairy-based ingredients with full-fat coconut milk and sweetened condensed coconut milk, while also incorporating nutmeg, cinnamon, and spiced rum for added depth of flavor.
The inclusion of orange spice gives it a unique and invigorating taste profile that sets it apart from other holiday cocktails. What’s particularly great about this recipe is its versatility and inclusivity – it is free from nuts, making it an excellent option for those with nut allergies or intolerances. Whether you’re serving individual cocktails or preparing a batch cocktail by combining the mix with rum, the Orange Spice Vegan Coquito is sure to be a hit.
Additionally, the flavors continue to mature and develop after a day in the refrigerator, allowing you to prepare ahead of time without sacrificing any of its signature charm. Overall, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and one-of-a-kind holiday cocktail experience.
Iced Cinnamon Whiskey Chai
Planning the perfect holiday party can be a daunting task, but finding the ideal cocktail to serve is one less thing you’ll have to worry about. The Iced Cinnamon Whiskey Chai is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and mouth-watering drink that happens to be vegan-friendly. This refreshing concoction combines the warm spices of Rebbl Ashwaganda Chai Super Herb Elixir with the creaminess of coconut milk, all infused with a subtle hint of cinnamon spice from the whiskey.
As an added bonus, the use of organic and fair trade ingredients ensures that your indulgence is not only delicious but also guilt-free.
Homemade Vegan Irish Cream
Bring some festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with our Homemade Vegan Irish Cream recipe. This delicious liqueur is a game-changer for those who love the classic taste of Baileys Irish Cream but want a plant-based alternative that’s just as rich and creamy. Made with readily available pantry ingredients, this vegan Irish cream can be enjoyed over ice or mixed into your favorite cocktail.
Its shelf life is impressive too – it lasts up to two weeks in the refrigerator, so you can enjoy it all holiday season long without worrying about waste or having to whip up a fresh batch every time. With its smooth and velvety texture, this homemade liqueur is sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Vegan Eggnog
Just when you thought you’d have to give up on eggnog this holiday season, think again! A delicious vegan alternative has arrived in the form of the Vegan Eggnog. This innovative drink combines almond and coconut milk with natural sweetness from dates, making it not only dairy-free but also egg-free, a true win for vegans.
White Russian
Zero in on the perfect holiday cocktail with The Vegan White Russian, a must-try drink that embodies the spirit of the season. Made from just three simple ingredients – vodka, coffee liqueur, and a creamy non-dairy milk – this indulgent beverage is effortless to prepare for a crowd or as a soothing nightcap. As an added bonus, it’s 100% dairy-free, making it an ideal choice for vegans or those seeking to avoid dairy products altogether.
Eggnog
Brimming with the classic flavors of traditional eggnog, but without the dairy, this vegan version is a game-changer for those looking for a healthier alternative. Made with plant-based milk alternatives such as almond or soy milk, and blended with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this vegan eggnog is not only delicious, but also offers a more sustainable option for those who want to indulge without the guilt.
With its light and creamy texture, it’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter night, whether you take it warm or chilled. This refreshing twist on a holiday classic is sure to become a new favorite among both vegans and non-vegans alike this season.
Blood Orange Manischewitz Cocktail
Not only will the Blood Orange Manischewitz Cocktail be a showstopper at your next food-centric Jewish holiday celebration, but it’s also impressively unique and exciting. Crafted with care using reduced Manischewitz wine and freshly squeezed blood orange juice, this delightful cocktail perfectly balances sweetness and flavor, while boasting just the right amount of depth. It’s a kosher delight that’s perfect for Passover, making it an excellent choice for those observing Jewish holidays.
This innovative concoction was actually created by Gabi Moskowitz, a talented food blogger and cookbook author who’s clearly a master of experimenting with flavors.
Candy Cane White Russian
Yellowing pages of old holiday cookbooks may inspire you to create new classics in your own kitchen. Years ago, mixologists began experimenting with vegan versions of beloved cocktails, resulting in innovative and delicious twists on traditional recipes. The Candy Cane White Russian is one such creation, born from the combination of vodka, Kahlua, peppermint extract, maple syrup, and plant-based cream.
Yule logs and festive decorations may be popular holiday motifs, but this cocktail’s festive touch comes from the candy cane rim that adds a delightful crunch to each sip. Yielding to the temptation to indulge in this creamy concoction is easy, especially when paired with your favorite holiday movie on a snowy evening.
You’ll want to make it again and again, making the Candy Cane White Russian a must-try for anyone looking for a festive and scrumptious cocktail to enjoy during the holiday season.
Eggnog Espresso Martini With Rum
Rounding out your holiday cocktail repertoire with a show-stopping, indulgent drink is a must for any festive gathering. The Eggnog Espresso Martini with Rum is a creamy and rich concoction that embodies the essence of the season. Crafted with vegan eggnog, rum (or whiskey or vodka), coffee liqueur, cold brew or espresso, vanilla, and cinnamon, this decadent cocktail promises to be a hit at any holiday soiree.
Whether you’re cozying up by the Christmas tree or hosting a festive gathering, this spiked eggnog recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The harmonious blend of warm spices and a bold kick of caffeine makes for a truly merry and bright experience that will leave you feeling like it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
Apple Cider Cocktail
Often overlooked for more traditional holiday cocktails, the Apple Cider Cocktail is a delicious and festive alternative that’s sure to impress your guests. This cocktail takes inspiration from the classic whiskey smash, but with a unique twist: apple cider and bourbon as its main ingredients. One of the best things about this recipe is its ease of preparation and adaptability – whether you prefer your cocktails sweet or sour, it can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.
The addition of fresh rosemary and apple slices as a garnish adds a touch of elegance to the cocktail, making it perfect for special occasions. With its refreshing blend of flavors and easy-to-make recipe, the Apple Cider Cocktail is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a new holiday drink to try. So, if you’re in the mood for something different yet still deliciously festive, give this recipe a shot!
Sparkling Pomegranate Margaritas
For those seeking a festive and refreshing cocktail to celebrate the holiday season, the Sparkling Pomegranate Margarita is an excellent choice. This delectable drink combines lime juice, silver tequila, and 100% pomegranate juice, shaken with ice to create a delightful balance of flavors. To complete this festive concoction, the mixture is topped with sparkling wine and garnished with pomegranate arils, adding a pop of color and whimsy to the drink.
The Sparkling Pomegranate Margarita is not only visually appealing but also offers an excellent taste experience. The lime juice provides a touch of acidity, while the tequila adds a subtle kick, all perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the pomegranate juice. As you sip this cocktail, the bubbles from the sparkling wine will transport you to a winter wonderland.
It’s an incredibly easy and foolproof drink that even novice bartenders can master with ease, making it perfect for ringing in the new year or any other festive occasion. If you’re searching for a drink that’s sweet, tart, and expertly balanced, then the Sparkling Pomegranate Margarita is undoubtedly the best choice.
Blood Orange Mocktail
Naturally, when it comes to serving a refreshing and colorful mocktail at your holiday party, the Blood Orange Mocktail is an ideal choice. This citrusy and naturally sweetened drink is perfect for those who want to celebrate without the alcohol, making it an excellent option for guests of all ages. Made with fresh blood orange juice, lime, and agave, this mocktail is topped off with sparkling water and garnished with fresh mint and citrus slices.
The beautiful pink color and fresh flavors are sure to impress your guests and make any occasion feel special. With its unique blend of flavors and vibrant appearance, it’s an excellent addition to any celebration, and one that will surely leave a lasting impression on your partygoers.
Chai Espresso Martini
Crafting a unique and delicious twist on the classic espresso martini, the Chai Espresso Martini is an ideal choice for those seeking a seasonal cocktail to warm up their spirits. This vegan holiday cocktail recipe combines homemade vanilla chai and honey simple syrup with vodka, Kahlúa, a shot of espresso, and coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy flavor profile that’s perfect for the colder months.
The addition of the chai syrup brings a delightful warmth and depth to the drink, thanks to its distinctive blend of warming spices and velvety vanilla notes. Meanwhile, the coconut milk adds a luxurious touch of creaminess, balancing out the bold flavors of the espresso and Kahlúa.
Puerto Rican Coquito
Vibrant and delicious, the Puerto Rican Coquito is a vegan holiday cocktail that’s sure to become a favorite during the cold winter months. Its creamy texture, infused with seasonal spices, coconut, and rum, makes it an ideal drink for sipping by the fire with loved ones.
The recipe relies on plant-based substitutes like sweetened condensed coconut milk and evaporated coconut milk, which not only reduce the calorie count but also amplify the coconut flavor, making it a delightful treat for those looking for a lighter alternative.
Hot Buttered Rum
Looking for a unique and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season? Look no further than the Hot Buttered Rum, a creamy and indulgent vegan cocktail that’s perfect for cold winter nights. Made with a combination of vegan butter, brown sugar, spices, and a shot of rum, this cocktail is then topped with simmering plant-based milk and water, creating a warm and comforting drink that’s sure to impress.
The addition of coconut cream and cinnamon adds an extra layer of richness and flavor, making this already decadent cocktail even more irresistible. If you’re looking for a show-stopping vegan holiday cocktail that’s sure to delight your guests, the Hot Buttered Rum is definitely worth trying.
Cranberry Constellation
Undoubtedly one of the most festive and flavorful vegan cocktails perfect for the holiday season is the Cranberry Constellation. This bourbon-based drink boasts a rich and tangy cranberry compote that elevates the cocktail’s complexity and depth. The inclusion of Fleur de Sel bitters provides a welcome contrast to the sweetness and acidity of the compote, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Cranberry Molasses Mulled Wine
Delighting your senses with its perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, the Cranberry Molasses Mulled Wine is an excellent choice for those who enjoy fruity holiday cocktails. The rich flavor of molasses balances out the tanginess of cranberries, creating a delightful taste experience that’s sure to become a favorite. Additionally, the warm spices added in the mulling process give this cocktail a comforting and inviting aroma that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Pornstar Martini
Fresh from the world of modern classics, the Pornstar Martini boasts a sweet and sour taste profile that’s perfectly balanced by its frothy top, adorned with half a floating passion fruit. This tantalizing concoction is crafted with Passoa, vodka, vanilla syrup, fresh lime, passion fruit puree, and passion fruit juice, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.
Named after its provocative name by its ingenious creator, Douglas Ankrah, who envisioned the drink as a stylish and confident expression of luxury, the Pornstar Martini is sure to impress during the holiday season with its glamorous appearance.
Pear Prosecco Punch
For those seeking a refreshing and light vegan cocktail to serve at their holiday gatherings, look no further than the Pear Prosecco Punch. This simple yet sophisticated drink is composed of just three ingredients – fresh pears, pear nectar, and a glass of Prosecco – making it an attractive option for those who wish to indulge without compromising on health.
The subtle dryness of the Prosecco provides a perfect balance to the sweetness of the pear flavors, allowing the drink’s nuances to unfold gradually. Frozen fruit can be used to keep the cocktail chilled for longer periods, and adding slices of fresh ginger will provide an extra layer of depth and spice. This versatile cocktail is suitable for both morning and evening events, including brunch parties and evening gatherings.
Furthermore, it can easily be transformed into a mocktail by omitting the Prosecco, making it a great option for those who prefer a non-alcoholic beverage. The Pear Prosecco Punch is an ideal addition to any holiday celebration, bringing a touch of elegance and festivity to the occasion.
Simple Mulled Wine
Looking for a special holiday cocktail that’s both cozy and comforting? Lucky for you, we’ve got just the recipe – the Simple Mulled Wine is a game-changer. This vegan-friendly drink is bursting with seasonal spices, rich red wine, and vibrant orange notes, making it the ideal choice for a night in or a festive gathering with friends.
Lavender French 75 Cocktail
Often associated with the beauty and elegance of French culture, the Lavender French 75 Cocktail is a refreshing blend that combines champagne, gin, fresh lemon juice, and homemade lavender-infused simple syrup. This unique twist on the classic French 75 gives it a distinctively floral flavor profile that makes it perfect for garden-themed parties or outdoor events.
The use of fresh herbs in cocktails has been gaining popularity in recent years, and this cocktail is a prime example of how creative bartenders can incorporate edible flowers and herbs into their recipes to create truly unique and delicious drinks. With its versatility and easy-to-make recipe, the Lavender French 75 Cocktail is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you’re serving it in a champagne flute or a more rustic glassware, its charm and elegance are sure to impress.
Elderflower Gin Cocktail
Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with this stunning vegan holiday cocktail – the Elderflower Gin Cocktail. Made with Empress 1908 gin, Drillaud Elderflower liquor, and 1804 Grand Imperial orange liqueur, this refreshing and citrus-forward drink is perfect for any holiday gathering. The addition of butterfly pea tea gives the gin a unique twist, changing its color from deep indigo blue-purple to a lighter purple when lemon juice is squeezed into it.
This subtle flavor element blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating a well-balanced taste experience that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. To showcase this beautiful cocktail in all its glory, serve it up in a pretty crystal glass and watch your guests be wowed by its vibrant color. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or just looking for a festive drink to add some excitement to your holiday party, the Elderflower Gin Cocktail is sure to be a hit.
Plum Ginger Gin Sour
Beyond the traditional gin sour lies a world of flavor and creativity, exemplified by the refreshing and sophisticated Plum Ginger Gin Sour. This delightful cocktail is not only vegan-friendly but also showcases the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, thanks to the incorporation of homemade plum ginger simple syrup and aquafaba foam.
The subtle warmth of the ginger perfectly complements the herbal undertones of the gin, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. As the weather cools down, this cocktail is sure to become your new favorite autumnal drink, with its unique blend of fruit flavors and botanicals making it an absolute must-try for any occasion.
Eggnog White Russian
Elevate your holiday cocktail game with the Eggnog White Russian, a delicious twist on the classic White Russian. This seasonal sipper is made by substituting eggnog for heavy cream and adding whipped vodka for a sweet, creamy flavor that’s sure to delight your taste buds. The result is a perfectly balanced cocktail that’s ideal for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
And for those looking to reduce calories, consider using almondmilk nog as a dairy-free alternative – it boasts an impressive 70 calories per half-cup serving! With its unique blend of flavors and adaptability, the Eggnog White Russian is sure to become your go-to cocktail this season, impressing friends and family alike with every pour.
Festive Gin Smash
Creating a memorable impression at your holiday party is all about the details, and what better way to do that than with a show-stopping cocktail? The Festive Gin Smash fits the bill perfectly, combining vibrant colors and fresh flavors in one delicious glass. Made with gin, white lychees, red strawberries, and green mint, this drink is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes. With its layers of color and delicate garnish, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Plus, being vegan-friendly means that everyone can enjoy it, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Winter Gin & Tonic With Elderflower & Sloe
Wrapped in the festive spirit of the winter season, The Winter Gin & Tonic With Elderflower & Sloe offers a delightful reinterpretation of the classic G&T. This innovative and cruelty-free cocktail is perfectly suited for the holiday period, with its blend of elderflower liqueur, sloe gin, and Campari resulting in a charming pinkish hue and a subtle hint of fruitiness.
The warming tones imparted by the sloe gin and Campari are beautifully complemented by the delicate sweetness of the elderflower, evoking memories of warmer summer days. Finished with an elegant garnish of orange twists, this visually stunning drink is a must-try for those seeking to add a unique touch to their holiday beverages.
Cranberry 75
Vibrant and full of festive cheer, the Cranberry 75 is a delightful twist on the classic French 75 cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the crispness of gin with the effervescence of sparkling wine, while the addition of cranberry simple syrup brings a lovely tartness to the mix. The bright burst of cranberry and lemon flavors gives this cocktail its signature zing, making it perfect for any holiday celebration.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking for a seasonal drink to enjoy on its own, the Cranberry 75 is an excellent choice.
