Cheers to Choice: Festive Cocktails for a Flavorful and Responsible Holiday Season

This holiday season, we’re raising a glass to choice—the choice to enjoy delicious drinks, whether with or without alcohol, all while keeping the festive spirit alive. Diageo North America has crafted a lineup of seasonal cocktails that bring together vibrant flavors, mindful options, and all the warmth and coziness you want this time of year. From a no-alcohol twist on eggnog to a rich, chocolatey dessert cocktail, these drinks are perfect for any celebration.

So, whether you’re staying sober, sipping on a low-alcohol treat, or going for a full-flavored classic, there’s something here to fit every preference and toast responsibly.

Holiday Cocktails with a Mindful Twist

1. Alternative Egg Nogg

Who says you need alcohol to get that classic holiday nog flavor? The Alternative Egg Nogg brings the creamy, spiced goodness you crave but keeps things light. Using a spiced non-alcoholic spirit, oat milk, coconut cream, and a hint of cinnamon, this drink is as cozy as your favorite holiday sweater.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced non-alcoholic spirit (think cinnamon or clove-infused)
• 2 oz oat milk or dairy-free milk of choice
• 1 oz coconut cream
• .25 oz cinnamon syrup
• 1 drop vanilla extract

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a blender and pulse until frothy. Serve in a wine glass, top with grated nutmeg, and enjoy the festive vibes without the buzz.

2. Banana Old-Fashioned

A classic cocktail with a tropical twist! The Banana Old-Fashioned is perfect for those who want to stick to tradition but add a bit of flair. With aged dark rum, banana liqueur, and a touch of bitters, this one’s got just the right amount of warmth and smoothness. Want to keep it alcohol-free? Just replace the rum with your favorite non-alcoholic spirit for a delightful mocktail.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz aged dark rum
• .25 oz banana liqueur
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Expressed orange peel

Directions:
Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice for 30 seconds, then strain into a glass over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist, and you’ve got a festive drink that’s big on flavor but easy on the booze.

3. The Cocoa Berry

Indulgent, chocolatey, and just a little fruity—The Cocoa Berry is everything you want in a dessert cocktail. Blending chocolate liqueur and Irish cream with fresh raspberries, it’s the ultimate holiday treat in a glass. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth who want to end the night on a delicious note.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz Irish cream liqueur
• 5 fresh raspberries

Directions:
Add ingredients to a shaker with ice, shake for 30 seconds, and strain into a rocks glass over a square ice cube. Garnish with raspberries and shaved chocolate for a sweet, seasonal sip.

Celebrate Responsibly with Diageo’s ‘Serve & Sip’ Recipe Book

Diageo North America’s “Serve & Sip” recipe book is packed with options for every guest, whether they’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or a thoughtful, non-alcoholic creation. This collection of recipes aligns with Diageo’s commitment to promoting responsible drinking and supporting more mindful choices. After all, the best celebrations are the ones that everyone remembers.

Explore Diageo’s entire range of recipes, enjoy holiday cocktails responsibly, and make this season one to remember for all the right reasons. Cheers to a season filled with flavorful choices and responsible celebrations!

For more holiday-inspired ideas, be sure to check out The Booze Times for tips, recipes, and a full guide on 30 Fun Drinking Games to keep the festive spirit alive all season long.

Cover Photo by Kris Sevinc on Unsplash