17 Festive New Years Cocktail Recipes Delicious

Cheers to a sparkling New Year! Whether you’re hosting a grand party or enjoying a quiet evening in, our roundup of 17 Festive New Year’s Cocktail Recipes is your ticket to a delicious celebration. From bubbly classics to cozy winter warmers, there’s a drink here to toast to every moment. Let’s shake, stir, and sip our way into the new year—keep reading for recipes that’ll make your festivities unforgettable!

Sparkling Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail

Outshine your usual brunch with this vibrant Sparkling Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail. It’s a fizzy, fruity delight that’s as easy to make as it is impressive.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pomegranate juice (chilled, for best results)
• 1 bottle champagne or sparkling wine (chilled, opt for brut to balance sweetness)
• 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (for garnish, fresh or thawed if frozen)
• 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed, adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Chill all ingredients in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before preparation.
2. Pour 2 tbsp of pomegranate juice into each champagne flute.
3. Add 1/2 tsp of lime juice to each flute, stirring gently to combine.
4. Slowly top each flute with champagne, leaving about 1/2 inch at the top to prevent overflow.
5. Garnish each cocktail with a small handful of pomegranate arils.
6. Serve immediately with ice cubes on the side if desired.

Here’s to a cocktail that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. The effervescence of the champagne pairs perfectly with the tartness of the pomegranate, creating a refreshing sip. Try rimming the glasses with sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Winter Spice Old Fashioned

Embrace the cozy vibes of winter with this spiced twist on a classic cocktail. Perfect for sipping by the fire, it’s a blend of warmth and sophistication.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 tsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
• 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish and subtle spice)
• 1 orange peel (for garnish and citrus aroma)
• 1 cup ice cubes (preferably large for slower melting)

Instructions

1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and stir for 30 seconds to chill the mixture without diluting it too much. Tip: The colder the drink, the more the flavors will meld together.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange peel. Tip: Express the orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in for added aroma.
5. Lightly stir the drink with the cinnamon stick before serving to infuse the spice. Tip: For a stronger cinnamon flavor, let the stick sit in the drink for a few minutes before serving.

You’ll love the smooth, warming spice that complements the bourbon’s richness. Serve it in a chilled glass for an extra touch of elegance.

Gingerbread Martini

Savor the warm, spicy kick of a Gingerbread Martini this holiday season. This cocktail blends the cozy flavors of gingerbread with the smoothness of vodka for a festive drink.

Ingredients

– 2 oz vodka (use a high-quality brand for best flavor) – 1 oz gingerbread syrup (homemade or store-bought) – 1 oz half-and-half (for creaminess) – 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish) – Ice cubes (enough to fill a shaker) – Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes. 2. Add 2 oz vodka, 1 oz gingerbread syrup, 1 oz half-and-half, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon to the shaker. 3. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold. 4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. 5. If desired, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon for garnish. Just the right balance of sweet and spicy, this Gingerbread Martini is creamy with a hint of warmth from the cinnamon. Serve it as a dessert cocktail or pair it with your favorite holiday treats for a festive touch.

Cranberry Orange Sparkler

Outshine the ordinary with this Cranberry Orange Sparkler, a refreshing blend that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. Perfect for sipping on a warm day or adding a festive touch to gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cranberry juice (100% juice for best flavor)
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (strained to remove pulp)
• 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup sparkling water (chilled)
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Orange slices and cranberries (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice and orange juice.
2. Add honey to the pitcher and stir until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
3. Just before serving, gently stir in sparkling water to preserve the bubbles.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the sparkler over the ice.
5. Garnish with orange slices and cranberries for an extra festive look.

Yield a drink that’s brilliantly tart with a sweet undertone, effervescent and utterly refreshing. Serve it in a sugar-rimmed glass for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.

Peppermint White Russian

Frosty evenings call for a twist on the classic White Russian. This Peppermint White Russian blends cool, creamy flavors with a refreshing minty kick.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka (use a high-quality brand for smoother taste)
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (adjust to taste)
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill a rocks glass)
• Crushed peppermint candy (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a rocks glass to the brim with ice cubes to chill the drink thoroughly.
2. Pour 2 oz of vodka over the ice, ensuring even distribution.
3. Add 1 oz of coffee liqueur to the glass, layering it gently over the vodka.
4. Slowly pour 1 oz of peppermint schnapps into the glass for a minty layer.
5. Top with 1 oz of heavy cream, allowing it to float on top for a creamy finish.
6. Garnish with crushed peppermint candy on top for an extra minty crunch and festive look.

Enjoy the creamy, minty layers of this Peppermint White Russian. Its smooth texture and refreshing taste make it perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

Apple Cider Bourbon Fizz

Bold flavors come together in this Apple Cider Bourbon Fizz, a refreshing cocktail perfect for any season. Easy to make, it’s a crowd-pleaser with a kick.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 4 oz apple cider (freshly pressed preferred)
• 1 oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
• Club soda (to top)
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Apple slice (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 2 oz bourbon, 4 oz apple cider, 1 oz lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes, leaving room at the top.
5. Top with club soda, gently stirring to combine.
6. Garnish with an apple slice on the rim of the glass for a decorative touch.

Optimal served chilled, the Apple Cider Bourbon Fizz balances sweet, tart, and bubbly for a delightful sip. Try rimming the glass with cinnamon sugar for an extra festive twist.

Vanilla Pear Prosecco Punch

Delight your guests with this refreshing Vanilla Pear Prosecco Punch, perfect for any celebration. Its sweet and bubbly profile makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pear nectar (chilled for best results)
• 1 bottle (750ml) Prosecco (chilled, or any sparkling wine)
• 1/2 cup vanilla vodka (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 tbsp simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Thinly sliced pears and lemons (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine the pear nectar, vanilla vodka, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix.
2. Add simple syrup if desired, stirring again to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or vodka as needed.
3. Just before serving, gently pour in the Prosecco to preserve the bubbles. Stir lightly.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the punch over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a slice of pear and lemon for a festive touch.

Bubbly and smooth, this punch balances the sweetness of pear with the crispness of Prosecco. Serve in mason jars for a rustic look or in champagne flutes for elegance.

Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

Zesty and bold, this Cinnamon Whiskey Sour twists the classic with a warm spice kick. Perfect for cozy nights or spirited gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 oz cinnamon whiskey (or any whiskey for a milder spice)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (optional for froth)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Chill a coupe glass by filling it with ice water. Set aside.
2. In a shaker, combine 2 oz cinnamon whiskey, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup.
3. Add 1 egg white to the shaker for a silky texture. Skip if avoiding raw egg.
4. Fill the shaker with ice cubes, securing the lid tightly.
5. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white and chill the mixture.
6. Discard the ice water from the coupe glass, straining it dry.
7. Double strain the cocktail into the prepared glass to ensure smoothness.
8. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, lightly tapping it to release aroma.

Oozing with velvety texture, this cocktail balances tart and sweet with a fiery cinnamon finish. Serve it alongside dark chocolate desserts for a match made in heaven.

Blackberry Sage Smash

Dive into the refreshing blend of sweet and herbal with this Blackberry Sage Smash. Perfect for summer evenings, it’s a quick mix of bold flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh blackberries (plus extra for garnish)
• 4 fresh sage leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup vodka (or gin for a different twist)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1/2 cup club soda (chilled)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries and sage leaves with honey until well combined.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill the mixture.
3. Strain the mixture into two glasses filled with ice, dividing evenly.
4. Top each glass with club soda, gently stirring to combine.
5. Garnish with additional blackberries and sage leaves before serving.

A vibrant cocktail that balances the tartness of blackberries with the earthy notes of sage. Serve with a short straw to enjoy the fruit at the bottom.

Honey Lavender Gin Fizz

Refreshing and floral, this Honey Lavender Gin Fizz is a summer cocktail that balances sweetness with herbal notes. Perfect for sipping on a warm evening.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin (use a floral gin for enhanced lavender flavor)
• 1 tbsp honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water, stirred)
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp culinary lavender buds (lightly crushed for more aroma)
• 3 oz club soda (chilled)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, honey syrup, lemon juice, and lavender buds.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and infuse the lavender.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice, using a fine mesh sieve to remove lavender buds.
4. Top with club soda and gently stir to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or a few lavender sprigs for an aromatic touch.

Offering a bubbly texture and a harmonious blend of sweet and floral, this cocktail shines when served in a chilled coupe glass. Try rimming the glass with honey and dried lavender for an extra special presentation.

Spiced Rum Eggnog

Eggnog gets a boozy upgrade with spiced rum, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 4 cups whole milk (for creamier nog, use half-and-half)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 large eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tbsp (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup spiced rum (dark rum works too)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt until pale and thick, about 2 minutes.
2. Heat milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, about 5 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
3. Slowly pour hot milk mixture into egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Return mixture to saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Do not boil.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in rum, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Tip: For a stronger rum flavor, add an extra splash.
6. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with 2 tbsp sugar until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes. Tip: Ensure bowl and beaters are clean for best volume.
7. Gently fold beaten egg whites into the eggnog mixture until just combined.
8. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for flavors to meld.

Serve chilled with a dusting of nutmeg. The eggnog is rich, creamy, and warmly spiced. For a festive touch, rim glasses with cinnamon sugar before pouring.

Coconut Snowball Martini

Just when you thought coconut couldn’t get any more indulgent, this martini turns it into a creamy, dreamy cocktail.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz coconut rum (chilled for best results)
• 1 oz vanilla vodka (or plain vodka for less sweetness)
• 2 oz coconut cream (shake well before using)
• 1 oz pineapple juice (fresh squeezed preferred)
• 1 cup ice cubes (crushed ice blends better)
• Shredded coconut for rimming (toast lightly for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Chill a martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes for a frosty serve.
2. Toast shredded coconut in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden, then let cool.
3. Rim the chilled glass with coconut cream and dip into toasted coconut to coat the edge.
4. In a shaker, combine coconut rum, vanilla vodka, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and ice.
5. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to fully mix and chill the ingredients.
6. Strain into the prepared martini glass, ensuring no ice chunks remain.
7. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for a snowy effect.

Zesty pineapple cuts through the rich coconut, creating a balanced sip. Serve with a mini umbrella for a playful touch or pair with dark chocolate for contrast.

Blood Orange Margarita

Savor the vibrant twist of a classic with this Blood Orange Margarita. It’s a refreshing blend of sweet and tart, perfect for summer evenings.

Ingredients

– 2 oz tequila (silver for a cleaner taste)
– 1 oz triple sec
– 3 oz fresh blood orange juice (strained for smoothness)
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 tbsp agave syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
– Ice cubes
– Salt for rimming (optional, use coarse for texture)
– Blood orange slice for garnish

Instructions

1. Rim a margarita glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into a plate of salt.
2. Fill a shaker with ice cubes to chill.
3. Add tequila, triple sec, blood orange juice, lime juice, and agave syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
6. Garnish with a blood orange slice on the rim.
Tip: For a smoother drink, double strain the juice to remove pulp.
Tip: Adjust the agave syrup based on the sweetness of your blood oranges.
Tip: Freeze blood orange slices for an elegant and functional garnish.
Unleash a burst of citrus with every sip; the Blood Orange Margarita balances bold flavors with a silky texture. Serve it alongside spicy dishes to complement the sweetness or enjoy it solo as a vibrant happy hour treat.

Rosemary Grapefruit Gin Tonic

Kickstart your evening with a refreshing twist on the classic gin tonic. This Rosemary Grapefruit Gin Tonic combines herbal notes with citrusy brightness for a sophisticated sip.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin (use a premium brand for best flavor)
• 4 oz tonic water (chilled)
• 1/2 grapefruit, juiced (about 1/4 cup, fresh is best)
• 1 sprig rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill a highball glass)

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes to ensure your drink stays cold.
2. Pour 2 oz of gin over the ice for a strong base.
3. Add 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for a tangy kick.
4. Top with 4 oz of chilled tonic water, gently stirring to mix without losing carbonation.
5. Lightly bruise a sprig of rosemary between your fingers to release its oils, then add it to the drink.
6. Garnish with an additional sprig of rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Delight in the harmonious blend of botanical gin, zesty grapefruit, and aromatic rosemary. Serve with a slice of grapefruit on the rim for an extra citrus punch.

Maple Bourbon Smash

Zesty and refreshing, the Maple Bourbon Smash is a cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweet depth of maple syrup. Perfect for summer evenings, it’s a quick mix with a sophisticated twist.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup crushed ice (more for serving)
• Sparkling water (to top off, optional)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves gently to release their aroma.
2. Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and maple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker halfway with crushed ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
5. Top with a splash of sparkling water if desired, for a fizzy twist.
6. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve immediately.

Unbelievably smooth, this cocktail balances sweetness with a sharp citrus kick. Serve it in a copper mug for an extra rustic charm or enjoy as is for a straightforward delight.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini

Here’s how to whip up a Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini that’s as indulgent as it sounds. Perfect for those who love a sweet, boozy treat.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka (chilled for best results)
• 1 oz chocolate liqueur (adjust to taste)
• 1 oz cherry juice (not from concentrate for richer flavor)
• 1 tbsp chocolate syrup (for rimming the glass)
• Maraschino cherries (for garnish, pat dry to prevent dripping)

Instructions

1. Chill a martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes to ensure it’s cold.
2. Rim the chilled glass with chocolate syrup by dipping the edge into a shallow plate of syrup, then twisting to coat evenly.
3. In a shaker, combine vodka, chocolate liqueur, and cherry juice with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and mix thoroughly.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass, ensuring no ice chips get in.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry on a skewer or dropped directly into the drink.

You’ll love the smooth blend of chocolate and cherry flavors, with a velvety texture that’s irresistible. Serve with a side of dark chocolate truffles for an extra decadent touch.

Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita

Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita brings a spicy twist to your cocktail game. Perfect for summer evenings, it’s a refreshing blend of sweet and heat.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila (silver for a cleaner taste)
• 1 oz triple sec (or any orange liqueur)
• 3 oz pineapple juice (fresh for best flavor)
• 1/2 oz lime juice (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 jalapeno, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1 tbsp agave syrup (or simple syrup)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill the shaker)
• Salt or sugar for rimming (optional)

Instructions

1. Rim your glass with salt or sugar by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into your choice of rimmer.
2. In a shaker, muddle the jalapeno slices with agave syrup to release their flavor.
3. Add tequila, triple sec, pineapple juice, lime juice, and ice to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
5. Strain into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
6. Garnish with a jalapeno slice or pineapple wedge for an extra touch.

Kick back and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this margarita. The sweetness of pineapple balances the jalapeno’s kick, creating a drink that’s both bold and refreshing. Serve it with a side of grilled shrimp for a perfect pairing.

Conclusion

Kickstart your New Year’s celebration with these 17 festive cocktail recipes that promise to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious beginner, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-makes on Pinterest. Cheers to a sparkling New Year!