The Best Alternative Christmas Cocktails To Try This Year 

Mulled wine? Again? It’s festive, sure, but if you’re ready to shake things up (literally), this year’s Christmas parties deserve something a little more exciting.

Whether you’re celebrating in your student halls, hosting a pre-drinks night before the big work Christmas do, or just trying to impress your mates with something fancier than vodka and coke, these alternative Christmas cocktails are easy to make, affordable, and seriously good festive fun.

1. The Gingerbread Espresso Martini 

Think of it as your classic pick-me-up, but with a festive twist. Perfect for keeping the energy up before you head out or for those late-night card games in the kitchen. You’ll need: 

• 50ml vodka 

• 25ml coffee liqueur 

• 25ml espresso (fresh or instant) 

• A teaspoon of gingerbread syrup (or golden syrup + ground ginger if you’re improvising) 

Shake everything with ice and strain into a glass. Dust with a little cinnamon if you’re feeling fancy. It tastes like Christmas in a cup — with a caffeine kick.

2. The Cranberry Fizz 

If you’re hosting a makeshift “classy” night in (you know, fairy lights, someone’s Bluetooth speaker, and too many picky bits), this one’s a crowd-pleaser. You’ll need: 

• 25ml gin

• 75ml cranberry juice

• Top up with lemonade or soda water

• A squeeze of lime 

It looks festive, it’s light, and it doesn’t require anything you won’t find at the corner shop. Bonus: garnish with a few frozen cranberries if you want to show off. 

3. Spiced Apple Cooler (Alcohol-Free) 

For anyone who isn’t drinking but doesn’t want to miss out on the fun or be limited to a nozecco or orange juice, this mocktail feels just as special as the real thing. You’ll need: 

• 100ml cloudy apple juice 

• 50ml ginger ale

• A splash of lime

• Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon to stir 

It’s warming, refreshing, and perfect for sipping during a film night or when you’re the designated organiser making sure everyone’s Secret Santa gifts actually get wrapped.

4. The Baileys Hot Chocolate Upgrade 

This one’s basically dessert in a mug - ideal for those colder nights in your student flat when the heating’s most likely not working. You’ll need: 

• Hot chocolate (instant or homemade) 

• A shot of Baileys or any cream liqueur 

• Whipped cream and marshmallows on top 

It’s easy, comforting, and doubles as a late-night treat after the work Christmas party. For a booze-free version, use a splash of caramel syrup instead — still indulgent, still festive.

5. Mistletoe Mule 

A festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule - fresh, zingy and made for kitchen parties. You’ll need:

• 50ml vodka

• 100ml ginger beer

• 25ml cranberry juice

• Lime wedge to squeeze 

Serve it in whatever you’ve got (a fancy glass, a mug - we don’t judge). It’s tangy, refreshing and totally Instagrammable.

6. Clementine Spritz (Alcohol-Free Option) 

Bright, bubbly, and the kind of mocktail that feels grown up.  You’ll need:

• 100ml clementine or orange juice

• 50ml soda water or tonic

• A dash of elderflower cordial

• Ice + orange slice to serve 

Light, zesty and full of festive vibes - perfect for when you want to join the toast without the buzz. 

7. Winter Berry Punch 

The ultimate crowd-pleaser if you’re mixing for a group — easy, colourful, and great for refills. You’ll need:

• 200ml red wine (or swap for grape juice if alcohol-free) 

• 100ml cranberry juice

• 50ml orange juice

• Handful of berries or orange slices

Mix in a jug with ice and let everyone help themselves. It looks amazing and costs next to nothing if you all chip in.

Final Sip

Christmas drinks don’t have to be expensive, complicated, or involve setting anything on fire (please don’t). These alternative cocktails are perfect for low-key celebrations, from kitchen parties in student halls to shared-house dinners or quick pre-drinks before the big office night out. 

Grab a few cheap ingredients, get creative, and toast to making it through the year, but please drink responsibly (and don’t forget to leave one for Santa!)