Bourbon Christmas Cocktails: Festive Sips for the Holidays

It’s the holiday season which means it’s time to wind down with your family and get festive with our very merry Christmas whiskey cocktails. Served hot or cold, on ice or straight, before dinner or after, these holiday bourbon cocktails will go down a real treat with whiskey lovers and novices alike! 

1. Old Fashioned

If you’re feeling a little nostalgic and yearning for the good old days, serve up an Old Fashioned. This is probably one of the most iconic bourbon Christmas cocktails out there. While there are many variations of this classic drink, we love the taste of the original, and you will too. To make one, you’ll need good quality bourbon, simple syrup, aromatic bitters, ice—and good company to share it with. 

2. Brown Sugar Old Fashioned

The addition of brown sugar gives the original Old Fashioned cocktail a more profound and richer taste with hints of caramel. Simply muddle brown sugar, water, and bitters in a glass until the sugar has dissolved. Then add the bourbon and ice and stir it up like a traditional Old Fashioned. Finally, garnish with orange peel and cinnamon for the taste of a dessert in a glass.

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3. Apple Butter Old Fashioned

With the warm and inviting spiced flavours of apple pie in every sip, the Apple Butter Old Fashioned cocktail is one of the tastiest whiskey Christmas cocktails you can serve this holiday season. Made with real apple butter (that you’ll be making from scratch!), this cocktail has vibrant flavours and is a wonderful sweet sipper to end your Christmas feast.  

4. Bourbon Apple Cider

‘Tis the season that begs to be draped in comfort—and a Bourbon Apple Cider is one of those winter bourbon cocktails that will make your cheeks glow. The best part is that you can make this in a big batch, which is perfect for festive season get-togethers. So call your friends, and get merry! 

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5. Mint Julep

This is one of the easiest bourbon holiday cocktails you’ll make this season. Most famous as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in the US, this minty bourbon drink is delicious enough to serve all year round and simple enough to mix together during a busy Christmas cocktail party. The only liquor in a Mint Julep is bourbon, so you’ll want to make sure you reach for a top-shelf bottle. Best served as a gorgeous welcome drink before dinner. 

6. Bourbon Watermelon

While watermelon feels more like summer than Christmas, adding bourbon puts the Murricane (named after famous actor Bill Murray) firmly on our list of best Christmas cocktails. Taste-wise, it’s an exciting drink. Basil, elderflower liqueur, and cracked black pepper elevate the bourbon taste to something complex and memorable.  

Read next: 11 Watermelon Cocktail Recipes to Impress a Crowd

7. Hot Toddy

After a long day of Christmas festivities, a Hot Toddy cocktail is precisely what you’ll need on a cold evening to shake off the winter cold and get that fireplace feeling. This warm cocktail is best enjoyed as a nightcap just before bedtime. While a traditional Hot Toddy should be bourbon-based, this recipe lends itself to many different spirits and variations with only one firm rule: drink it while it’s hot. 

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8. Werther’s Hot Toddies

As far as bourbon Christmas cocktails go, this is the one you’ll want to make for that sweet tooth in the family. This is one indulgent Hot Toddy made with Werther’s Original candies and caramel, and it’s easy to do. Rim serving mugs with crushed candies. Combine water, more candy, and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan over medium heat and simmer until the candy has melted. Take off the heat and add lemon juice and bourbon. Pour into prepared mugs and enjoy!

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9. Bourbon Chai Toddy

Take the traditional hot toddy to a whole new spice level with the addition of chai tea. Its complex flavours of cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and star anise elevates this toddy to absolute comfort in a mug. It is the epitome of cosiness and is simple to make with freshly brewed chai tea. Mixed with bourbon (or dark rum if that tickles your fancy), honey, and lemon juice and will warm you right up. This is one of the best holiday whiskey cocktails you can make to keep the cold at bay.

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10. Warm Christmas Cocktail

Creamy and packed with coconut, caramel, and vanilla flavours, you can make a batch of warm winter cocktails and keep it on the stove, ready to serve when the masses arrive for Christmas festivities. Simply warm up equal parts milk and coconut milk, sweeten to your liking with brown sugar, and flavour with some fresh vanilla pods. Once it’s simmering, whisk the mixture until frothy. Next, pour 60 ml of bourbon into pre-heated mugs, add the foamy coconut milk and garnish with nutmeg or cinnamon.

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11. Italian Gentleman

The Italian Gentleman might remind you of a Negroni. Getting the taste of this drink right will be a delicate balancing act. We suggest you choose a bold bourbon so that the bitterness of the Campari doesn’t overpower the drink. To make one, shake together Campari, bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and orange bitters with ice. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass and add a twist of either orange or lemon peel to finish it off.    

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12. Cinnamon Maple Bourbon Sour

This is a spin-off of the original Whiskey Sour, and it’s a must-have as part of your winter bourbon cocktails this Christmas season. A kiss of maple syrup and a sprinkling cinnamon give it a delicious Christmas taste. The lemon counteracts the sweetness, and the bourbon will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. All in all, this is a definite Christmas cocktail party winner.

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13. Kentucky Cousin

If you love the taste of black tea and you also love bourbon, then you will no doubt enjoy the Kentucky Cousin cocktail. It’s a great cocktail to serve on Christmas Day to wind down after all the eating. It might remind you a little bit of a Mint Julep, if you’re a fan of those.

To make one, muddle together a lemon slice, 2 – 4 mint leaves, two brandied cherries (pipped), and 15 ml simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Then add ice, 60 ml bourbon, 30 ml cherry liqueur, 30 ml lemon juice, and 120 ml cooled tea, and shake until nicely chilled (around 30 seconds). Finally, strain into a rocks glass and serve with a candied cherry. It’s a wonderfully unique taste that will surprise your guests – in a good way!

14. Cherry Sazerac

Speaking of strong cocktails, these bourbon Christmas drinks might leave your guests a little ‘absinthe-minded’, so slowly does it! The original Sazerac is a cognac and whiskey drink that originated in New Orleans as a traditional cocktail for Mardi Gras. The added maraschino cherry juice gives this version a sweeter taste.

To make one, add 30 ml of absinthe to a chilled rocks glass and swirl it around. Discard any leftover absinthe. Add ice to a small cocktail shaker, then add 60 ml rye whiskey, 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice, 30 ml cognac, and 2 dashes bitters, and stir until cold. Strain into the prepared rocks glass and garnish with a cherry and lemon peel.

15. Big Apple Manhattan

This Christmas cocktail party drink is an ode to New York winter. It is a spin-off of the timeless bourbon-based Manhattan with a fruity apple twist. To make one, fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add 60 ml rye whiskey, 30 ml apple brandy, and 2 dashes bitters. Next, strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with sliced apple or a brandied cherry. While scrumptious, it’s pretty potent, so proceed with caution.

16. Pickle Juice Whiskey Sours

If you’ve ever had a Pickleback Shot (a shot of bourbon followed by a shot of pickle juice), you’ll really enjoy this Pickle Juice Whiskey Sour. To start, you’re going to rim a coupe glass with Old Bay seasoning. Then, in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add bourbon and pickle juice and shake it until cold. Next, strain into a glass and garnish with pickled cucumbers and lemon slices. A delicious and tangy cocktail best served before dinner.

17. Fireball Margarita

While this bourbon drink is more Taco Tuesday than Christmas cocktail, it’s a great contender to start your Christmas cocktail party. Fireball whiskey is made by aging Canadian whiskey in American bourbon barrels and infused with natural cinnamon giving this bourbon its unique fireball taste. To make one Fireball Margarita, mix together 30 ml Fireball Whiskey, 30 ml orange liqueur, 30 ml tequila, and 60 ml Margarita mix. Pour it over ice in a tall glass and garnish with a wedge of lime.   

18. New York Sour

The New York Sour is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed by bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for over a century. This sophisticated twist on the Classic Whiskey Sour features a bold combination of whiskey, red wine, lemon juice, and sugar, creating a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavours. A timeless drink worthy of your best dinner party.

19. Spiked Hot Chocolate

When the weather cools, it’s time to make like the Aztecs and whip up this intensely rich and warmly spiced Tequila Hot Chocolate. Mexicans have been enjoying this boozy hot chocolate for thousands of years, and they were clearly on to a good thing! We’ve got options to make it dairy-free, vegan-friendly or as a mocktail, so you can rely on this Mexican Hot Chocolate cocktail to make a great dessert in a mug.

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20. Bourbon Milk Punch

Clarified Milk Punch is a captivating cocktail with a rich history. Combining spirits, citrus, and spices, it undergoes a unique clarification process using milk. The milk binds with impurities, resulting in a clear liquid with a smooth texture. The final drink is balanced, subtly sweet, and provides a surprising clarity to its flavours. Typically made using Cognac and rum, it also goes down a treat with bourbon as its base spirit, especially if you want some caramel notes in the mix.

21. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail

Cranberry cocktail recipes are always super popular around the holidays, and this one is as easy to pour as it is to enjoy. To make one, add 45 ml bourbon, 30 ml sweet vermouth, 60 ml orange juice, 30 ml unsweetened cranberry juice, and 30 ml simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Fill it with ice and shake until cold. Fine strain into a serving glass over fresh ice, and garnish with sugared cranberries and a rosemary sprig if preferred.

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22. Amaretto Sour

An Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail blending amaretto liqueur with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Shaken with ice, it delivers a harmonious mix of sweet and sour notes. The amaretto’s almond flavour, coupled with the citrusy zing, creates a well-balanced drink. Strained over ice, it’s a timeless, easy-to-enjoy cocktail with a delightful combination of flavours.

23. Christmas Kentucky Buck

If you love a Kentucky Mule, you’ve got to try the decidedly festive Christmas Kentucky Buck. To make one, add 60 ml bourbon, 30 ml lemon juice, and 30 ml simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into an glass with fresh crushed ice. Top with 60 ml club soda, and garnish with fresh cranberries before serving.

How to choose the right bourbon for different cocktails

Picking the perfect bourbon can elevate your cocktail game, ensuring every sip feels just right for the occasion. Whether you’re drawn to sweet, sour, or spiced flavours, or debating between a cosy warm drink or a chilled, cool one, here’s how to pair your bourbon wisely with your favourite festive cocktails.

Sweet cocktails

For sweeter creations like the Cinnamon Maple Bourbon Sour or the Brown Sugar Old Fashioned, choose a bourbon with rich caramel and vanilla notes. These natural flavours complement sugary ingredients like maple syrup, brown sugar, or honey, creating a balanced, dessert-like drink. Look for a smooth bourbon that adds depth without overshadowing the sweetness.

Sour cocktails

Tangy cocktails such as the Amaretto Sour or the Christmas Kentucky Buck benefit from a bourbon with a lighter, fruitier profile. These pairings highlight the bright citrus flavours of lemon or lime, creating a vibrant and well-rounded drink. Opt for a bourbon with subtle spice notes to keep the tanginess balanced.

Spiced cocktails

For spiced wonders like the Apple Butter Old Fashioned or the Bourbon Chai Toddy, go for a bourbon with a bold, peppery character. The spiced complexity of bourbon pairs beautifully with warming ingredients like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, enhancing the cozy, festive feel of these cocktails. A bourbon with a strong backbone ensures the spices shine without overpowering the drink.

Hot cocktails

Hot drinks like the Hot Toddy or Bourbon Milk Punch call for a bourbon that can hold up to the heat. A robust bourbon with toasted oak and smoky notes works best here, as the warmth amplifies these deeper flavours. This style of bourbon pairs particularly well with rich ingredients like caramel or cream, adding a touch of indulgence.

Cold cocktails

When it comes to chilled favourites like the Mint Julep or the Big Apple Manhattan, a bourbon with a crisp, clean finish is ideal. This style complements cool mixers and allows bright flavours like mint or apple to shine. The bourbon adds complexity while keeping the cocktail approachable.

By matching the bourbon to the style of cocktail you’re making, you can ensure each sip feels perfectly tailored to your holiday celebrations. And if in doubt, a bottle of Wild Turkey Bourbon always delivers the rich, versatile flavour you need for a wide range of festive cocktails!

9 Tips for hosting a Christmas party at home

Throwing a Christmas party at home can be as joyful as it is memorable with a little planning and creativity. Here’s how to make your festive gathering stress-free and full of holiday cheer.

1. Plan ahead

Start by drawing up a guest list and sending out your invitations nice and early. Once you know how many people are attending, craft a menu and shopping list to avoid last-minute chaos. Having a theme, such as “cosy winter nights” or “sparkling elegance,” can help to guide your décor and food choices. Prepare as much as possible in advance—set the table the day before and pre-mix cocktails for easy serving if the recipe allows.

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2. Keep food simple yet festive

Opt for dishes that are easy to prepare or can be made ahead. A mix of hot and cold options works well, and it’s always a good idea to include vegetarian choices. Finger foods like mini quiches, cheese platters, or festive canapés will keep guests mingling, while cute, seasonal touches such as cranberry chutney or spiced nuts bring a touch of holiday flair to your spread.

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3. Set up a DIY cocktail bar

A self-serve cocktail station adds fun and convenience to your party. Provide everything your guests need, including garnishes like sugared cranberries, citrus twists, and fresh herbs to inspire creativity. Include a recipe card for signature drinks, such as a Cinnamon Maple Bourbon Sour or a Mint Julep, to make mixing drinks simple and enjoyable.

4. Create a festive atmosphere

Décor sets the mood for your party, so focus on elements that bring warmth and joy. Fairy lights, candles, and garlands create an inviting glow, while a carefully curated playlist with classic and contemporary holiday tunes is sure to enhance the festive spirit.

5. Offer a warm welcome

Greet guests with a signature drink or festive snack to make them feel special right from the start. A Hot Toddy or a glass of Prosecco can set the tone for an evening filled with warmth and celebration.

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6. Keep things flowing

Arrange separate zones for food, drinks, and mingling to avoid crowding in one area. Smaller tables or sideboards can keep everything accessible, and seating arranged in cosy clusters encourages conversation and connection.

7. Consider kids and non-drinkers

If families are attending, plan activities for kids and non-alcoholic drinks for those not drinking alcohol. A craft station with simple holiday projects, like decorating cookies or making ornaments, is a great way to keep children entertained. Serve mocktails, mulled cider, or sparkling water with festive garnishes to ensure non-drinkers feel included.

Learn more: 16 Christmas Mocktail Recipes (Non-Alcoholic Drinks Full of Festive Cheer)

8. Be ready for surprises

It’s always smart to prepare for the unexpected. Stock up on extra ice, mixers, and snacks for any surprises. Have takeaway containers handy for leftovers so you can send guests home with a thoughtful treat.

9. Stay relaxed

Above all, enjoy yourself! The best parties are those where the host is genuinely part of the festivities. Once your preparations are done, let go of perfection and focus on spending quality time with loved ones. Remember, it’s the joy and connection that make the season truly special.

There you have it – 23 amazing bourbon Christmas cocktails to deck the halls this year. Tag us in your festive Instagram pictures, and remember to sign up for our newsletter to get the most sparkly holiday inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.