The holiday season in New Orleans is a time for celebrating with friends and family, and what better way to spread some holiday cheer than with a cocktail that embodies the rich flavors and history of the Crescent City? Whether you're sipping by the fire or toasting with loved ones, here are 5 New Orleans-inspired holiday drinks to add a festive touch to your gatherings. From classic cocktails to creamy indulgences, these drinks are sure to make your holiday season unforgettable.
1. Sazerac
New Orleans’ Classic Cocktail for the Holidays
The Sazerac is the drink that defined New Orleans cocktail culture. A festive blend of rye whiskey and aromatic bitters, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings with its bold flavors and rich history.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 3 dashes Peychaud's Bitters
- 1/4 oz Absinthe (or Herbsaint)
- Lemon peel (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with the bitters and a few dashes of water.
- Add the rye whiskey and ice, stirring until well chilled.
- Rinse a chilled old-fashioned glass with absinthe (or Herbsaint), discarding any excess.
- Strain the chilled cocktail into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
This cocktail is a perfect balance of strong, herbal, and citrusy flavors—a true New Orleans classic to celebrate the season.
2. Brandy Milk Punch
The Creamy Comfort of the Holidays
Brandy Milk Punch is a deliciously creamy holiday drink that brings together the smoothness of brandy with the richness of milk and spices. It's a perfect drink to sip by the fire while you enjoy the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Brandy
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 1/2 oz Simple syrup (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract
- Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the brandy, milk, simple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Add ice and shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
For an extra indulgent touch, you can add a splash of heavy cream instead of milk, or even top it off with whipped cream. It’s like a grown-up milkshake, and it’ll leave everyone feeling cozy!
3. Café Brûlot
Fire and Spice in a Glass
If you want to add a little drama to your holiday festivities, look no further than Café Brûlot. This New Orleans tradition features coffee, brandy, and warm spices—and is often served with a fiery flourish that will wow your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Strong black coffee
- 2 oz Brandy
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 4-5 Whole cloves
- 1 Strip of orange peel
- 1 Strip of lemon peel
- 1 tbsp Sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- In a heatproof bowl or pot, combine the coffee, brandy, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange peel, and lemon peel.
- Heat the mixture on the stove over low heat (do not boil), allowing the spices to infuse into the coffee.
- Add sugar to taste, if desired.
- Light the brandy on fire carefully using a match, and allow the flame to burn for a few seconds before extinguishing.
- Pour the hot mixture into a mug or serving glass and serve immediately.
The dramatic flaming presentation is just as much a part of the experience as the rich, spiced flavor. It’s the perfect way to end a festive holiday meal.
4. Pimm’s Cup
Refreshing Yet Festive
While the Pimm’s Cup is often associated with the warmer months, its light and refreshing flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for a holiday cocktail—especially when you add a few seasonal twists like cranberries or pomegranate.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Pimm's No. 1
- 4 oz Ginger ale
- 1/2 oz Lemon juice
- 1/4 oz Simple syrup (optional)
- Fresh mint (for garnish)
- Pomegranate seeds or cranberries (for garnish)
- Cucumber slices (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice and add Pimm's No. 1 and lemon juice.
- Top with ginger ale and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, a few pomegranate seeds or cranberries, and a slice or two of cucumber.
The Pimm’s Cup is light and refreshing with a subtle sweetness, and the holiday twist of seasonal garnishes makes it an ideal drink for festive gatherings.
5. Eggnog (New Orleans Style)
Rich, Creamy, and Perfect for the Holidays
Eggnog is a holiday classic, but New Orleans puts its own spin on it by using rum or bourbon for a slightly boozy kick. Serve this drink at your holiday gatherings and watch it quickly become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz Whole milk
- 2 oz Heavy cream
- 2 oz Rum or Bourbon (or both!)
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp Ground cinnamon
- Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat, stirring until warm (but not boiling).
- Remove from heat and whisk in the rum (or bourbon), sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a glass or mug and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
This rich, creamy eggnog is a perfect drink to sip while wrapped up in a cozy blanket. Add more rum or bourbon to make it stronger if you’re feeling festive, or serve it non-alcoholic for the whole family to enjoy.
New Orleans is known for its rich culture, and these holiday drinks are no exception. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, spiced, or strong, these top 5 cocktails will give your holiday season a New Orleans twist. So, grab your favorite glass, mix up a cocktail, and raise a toast to good times, great company, and the spirit of the season!
Cheers and Happy Holidays from the Big Easy! 🍸🎄