COZY COCKTAILS TO CHEERS IN THE NEW YEAR

A year like no other deserves a New Year’s Eve soiree like no other. One with plenty of toasting, cheersing, and clinking. Even if it’s at home, in your PJs, with just you and your crew.

If you’re thinking of going beyond the basic bubbly for your drink menu this year, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite cozy cocktails and creative twists for your New Year’s Eve at home.

Cranberry Margaritas

Margaritas aren’t just for summer sipping anymore. This festive version has been freshened up for the holidays with the puckery-sweet combo of cranberry and lime.

Get the recipe at gimmesomeoven.com.

For easy entertaining, mix a pitcher, and let everyone serve themselves.
No margarita glasses? No problem! Low ball glasses and tumblers work perfectly, plus you probably already have those in your home bar.
Instead of rimming your glass with salt or sugar, try crushed gingerbread cookies or dried lime peel (microwave lime peel on a paper towel for 60-90 seconds, until dry and grind in spice or coffee grinder).

SHOP THE LOOK

Stemless Wine Glass

Bourbon Apple Cider

Nothing warms the soul like celebrating the seasons with close family and friends ... and, let’s be honest, bourbon. This bourbon apple cider cocktail comes together quickly in an ice-filled cocktail shaker with simple seasonal ingredients.

Get the recipe at tidymom.net.

A fresh herb garnish like mint, basil, sage, thyme, or rosemary adds color and aromatics to your cocktail. To get the most fragrance and flavor out of your herbs, try this method called “awakening” from cocktailcourier.com.

Hot Bourbon Cider

For an even cozier cider cocktail, try a Hot Bourbon Cider with warm mulling spices. You can heat it on your stove or in a slow cooker, then ladle it into your most festive mugs.

Get the recipe at makersmark.com.

French 75

Just when you thought champagne couldn’t get any fancier, along comes the French 75, a classic champagne cocktail, to say “pardon et moi.” Just shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup together in a cocktail shaker, strain into your prettiest coupe flutes, and top with champagne.

Get the recipe at foodandwine.com.

You can also put your own special twist on this classic with these creative options:

Swap vodka, cognac, or pear brandy for the gin.
Use rose champagne for a blush-toned cocktail.
Add a splash of your favorite fruity liqueur.
Replace the lemon juice with blood orange juice.
Garnish with fresh fruit and herbs.
Rim your glass with sugar, gold turbinado sugar, or crushed lemon candy.

Spicy Pomegranate Moscow Mule

This variation of the classic Moscow Mule is ready to ring in the new year with sweet-tart pomegranate juice and a spicy kick of jalapeno. Stir up a pitcher or pour by the glass, topping each serving with fresh mint and ruby-red pomegranate arils.

Get the full recipe at halfbakedharvest.com.

Ready to try another way to Moscow Mule?