Name: Christmas Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 ounces (1 shot) huckleberry vodka; 3 ounces cranberry juice; 3 ounces Brut champagne (more to taste); Fresh rosemary, for garnish; Fresh cranberries, for garnish

The perfect way to celebrate this holiday season! This Christmas Cocktail is infused with the flavors of huckleberry and cranberry juice and topped off with a splash of bubbly. Guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit!

When it comes to holiday celebrations, I’m all about the signature cocktail. There’s just something about a “special” party drink that hits different. And when everyone is drinking the same thing? Even better!

I recently threw a party and made a big pitcher of my Cranberry Margaritas. To be honest, I wasn’t sure how they’d go over. Because in addition to beer… and wine… I also had a full bar. Clearly there was something for everyone.

And yet… throughout the night… everyone drank the “signature drink”. In fact, we went through three pitchers of them! Because people love not having to think about what they’re going to drink. And because people love something delicious! Which is exactly why this Christmas Cocktail is always such a hit.

It’s a simple drink, made with just three ingredients, but it couldn’t be more perfect for the holidays. It’s classy, it’s festive, and it’s SO delicious… whether you’re making one for yourself or for everyone at your next party!

what you’ll need for this recipe

Huckleberry vodka – Huckleberry vodka (most commonly known by the brand 44° North) is a subtly sweet, tangy vodka that’s infused with the flavor of fresh huckleberries. You can find it at most liquor stores or grocery store liquor departments. If you can’t find 44° North, you can use any brand available.

Brut champagne – Brut champagne is a dry sparkling wine that complements the sweetness of the huckleberry vodka. I would recommend Korbel as a middle of the road brand that’s widely available and not too expensive. You can feel free to use any brand you prefer. For a sweeter cocktail, use extra dry, dry, or demi sec champagne.

Cranberry juice – Cranberry juice has a delicious tart flavor that pairs well with the vodka. I used 100% cranberry juice, which is a combination of cranberry, grape, apple, and pear juice and has zero sugar added. For a sweeter drink, feel free to use cranberry juice cocktail.

Garnishes – For the garnishes on this cocktail I used fresh cranberries and a sprig of fresh rosemary. You could also substitute a citrus wedge or twist.

how to make a Christmas Cocktail

Fill the glass with ice. Fill your glass halfway with ice. For an extra cold cocktail, use a chilled glass!

Layer the ingredients. Add the vodka and cranberry juice, then top with champagne to taste.

Garnish & enjoy. Garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary as desired. Cheers!

Recipe Variations

Use any flavor of vodka, such as orange, lemon, cranberry, or raspberry
Substitute gin for the vodka
Substitute cranberry juice cocktail and/or a sweeter type of champagne for a sweeter drink
Add a splash of orange juice for a delicious flavor combination
Garnish with a citrus twist, fresh apple slices, or fresh thyme

Make Ahead Tip

This recipe is easy to make ahead – in pitcher form – for stress free entertaining! Grab a pitcher, add 36 ounces of cranberry juice + 18 ounces of huckleberry vodka, and you have the base for 12 Christmas Cocktails! To serve, simply fill your glasses halfway with ice, add the cranberry mixture, and top with champagne and garnishes!

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