Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail

The Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail is a bright, refreshing, and festive holiday drink packed with citrus flavors and a touch of sparkle. Made with a mix of fresh citrus juices, vodka or gin, and a splash of bubbly, this cocktail is perfect for holiday parties or cozy winter nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive & Colorful – A beautiful, vibrant cocktail that looks as cheerful as the season.
• Refreshing & Light – The mix of citrus juices keeps it fresh and crisp.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep make this a hassle-free holiday drink.
• Perfect for a Crowd – Easily scalable for large gatherings.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Vodka or gin
• Fresh orange juice
• Fresh lemon juice
• Fresh lime juice
• Cranberry juice (unsweetened or sweetened, depending on preference)
• Simple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
• Sparkling water or champagne
• Ice
• Garnishes: Sugared cranberries, rosemary sprigs, orange or lemon slices

Directions

1. Prepare the Glass – Rim your glass with sugar for an extra festive touch (optional).
2. Mix the Ingredients – In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka or gin, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup. Shake well.
3. Serve – Strain into an ice-filled glass.
4. Add Bubbles – Top with sparkling water or champagne for a refreshing fizz.
5. Garnish – Decorate with sugared cranberries, rosemary, and citrus slices.
6. Enjoy – Serve immediately and toast to a holly jolly holiday!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 cocktail (easily scalable)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Mocktail Version – Skip the alcohol and replace it with extra sparkling water or ginger ale.
• Sweeter Option – Use sweetened cranberry juice or add more simple syrup.
• Stronger Kick – Increase the vodka or gin for a bolder cocktail.
• Tropical Twist – Add a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can mix the citrus juices and alcohol ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Reheating: Not needed! Just shake or stir before serving if separated.

FAQs

What alcohol works best in this cocktail?

Vodka and gin both complement the citrus flavors well, but you can also use rum or tequila.

Can I make this in a large batch?

Yes! Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Add the sparkling water or champagne just before serving.

Do I have to use fresh citrus juice?

Fresh juice gives the best flavor, but bottled juice can work if you’re short on time.

How do I make sugared cranberries for garnish?

Toss fresh cranberries in simple syrup, then roll them in sugar and let them dry.

What’s the best way to rim the glass with sugar?

Rub a lemon wedge around the rim, then dip it in sugar for a festive touch.

Can I make it less sweet?

Skip the simple syrup and use unsweetened cranberry juice for a more tart flavor.

What’s a good substitute for sparkling water?

Ginger ale, club soda, or even prosecco work well for a bubbly finish.

Can I use another type of citrus?

Absolutely! Try grapefruit juice for a slightly bitter twist.

How can I make this cocktail extra festive?

Use red and green garnishes like cranberries, rosemary, and citrus slices for a holiday feel.

Is this cocktail good for New Year’s Eve too?

Yes! The bubbly element makes it perfect for celebrating any occasion.

Conclusion

The Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail is a bright and cheerful holiday drink that’s easy to make and perfect for festive celebrations. With its refreshing citrus flavors, a hint of cranberry, and a bubbly finish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Cheers to a holly jolly season!

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