Holiday Drinks: 9 Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic Drinks

Festive beverages are often served at seasonal gatherings with friends and family. Discover how to celebrate with these healthy holiday drinks.

1. Hot Chocolate

Warming up with a mug of hot cocoa on chilly days is a great way to stay warm during the winter. Try melting milk and dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa on the stovetop to make a sweet treat that is low in sugar. Coconut or vanilla almond milk are healthy alternatives to dairy.

2. Eggnog

Eggnog has been a holiday classic for centuries. Choose heavy cream or low-calorie milk alternatives to make a low-calorie eggnog. If you want to make an alcoholic version, mix 1/2 gallon each of the above options with 1/2 gal of vanilla unsweetened almond milk. Add 1 cup of rum and enjoy.

3. Apple Cider

It’s easy to make homemade cider and it will give your home an inviting scent during the holidays. You can add apples to the crockpot or instant pot. Oranges are a great way to add Vitamin C and another fruity taste. They also provide a healthier alternative to sugary store-bought sweeteners. Add a few cinnamon stick for an anti-inflammatory touch.

4. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine, as a festive drink that is traditionally served at special occasions, is a healthy alcoholic beverage to enjoy during the holiday season. Drinking a glass of wine in moderation has health benefits, as it contains less sugar. It also helps lower cholesterol. Pour two glasses red wine in a slow cooker and add a round orange sliced. Add two cinnamon sticks, mulled spices including 8 cloves whole and 2 star anise for anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Seasonal Sangria

Consider this healthy Sangria, which is free of sugary syrups. This drink is made with a bottle or two of wine, a bottle kombucha and 1 cup sparkling water. It also contains 1/2 cup pomegranate liquid and 1/4 cup orange juice. Add two oranges, one apple sliced, a cup of cranberries, and juiced lime and lemon. This combination contains many nutrients, including Vitamin C and antioxidants.

6. Cranberry Christmosa

Mimosas are a great addition to any brunch, or even if you want something special for breakfast. With cranberries, you can give this brunch classic a festive twist. Pour 4 ounces champagne into each glass. Add 2 ounces cranberry and 2 ounces pomegranate. The drink can be garnished with pomegranate and fresh cranberries. You can make this drink non-alcoholic by substituting seltzer for champagne.

7. Peppermintini

This festive martini is a great option if you are looking for a healthier cocktail. This cocktail is a delicious treat thanks to its light sweetness and creamy texture. Use 1/2 cup non-dairy milk or almond. Pour a peppermint-fresh taste, add 1 ounce peppermint vodka with 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract. You can serve it either warm or cold.

8. Grinch Juice

This healthy, delicious and colorful drink is a great conversation starter for holiday parties. Mix your favorite greens. Add at least 1 serving of pineapple, pear or green apple for sweetness. Pour 1 to 2 ounces tequila into the mocktail to turn it into a cocktail.

9. Mistletoe Margarita

Don’t forget to treat yourself with a healthy holiday drink. For this margarita you will need 2 ounces unsweetened cranberry, 2 ounces tequila, and freshly squeezed blood orange and lime. Mix all ingredients with ice in a shaker and pour into a glass with salt.