Aside from the holidays, December is the season to drink and be merry. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or curling up by the fireside, cider cocktails are the way to go. To make your winter days and nights a little sweeter, we’ve rummaged through recipes for the very best. Here are 11 sweet, tangy and spicy cider cocktail recipes you’ll want to sip on every day. Happy drinking!
1. Rosemary Mezcal Apple Cider: Not only is this drink a cinch to make, but this baby’s roots-y flavors will have you celebrating. Rosemary, mezcal, lime juice and apple cider create this magical concoction that goes down easily. (via Kale & Caramel)
2. Apple Cider Bourbon Slushie: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a slushie or two. Especially one made of apple cider, bourbon and cinnamon. (via Spache the Spatula)
3. Aberdeen Apple Crush: This cinnamon-spiced apple cider, bourbon, thyme and orange zest combo will take your taste buds on a trip through winter wonderland. (via The Clean Dish)
4. Apple Cider Thyme Cocktail: Freshly squeezed orange juice, brandy and bitters are just what you need when curling up by the fireplace. (via I Sugar Coat It)
5. Sparkling Spiced Mulled Cider Cocktail: Make time to relax for the holidays sipping on this cool, sweet and spicy blend of orange juice, cinnamon, cloves and sparkling cider. (via Bakingdom)
6. Cinnamon Apple Whiskey Sour: The holidays just got a whole lot easier starting with a sip from this delightful cocktail of bourbon, apple cider, cinnamon and rosemary. (via She Eats)
7. Easy Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail: This refreshing cocktail made of ginger ale and apple cider will make you feel like you’re at an orchard. (via Chic & Sugar)
8. Apple Cider Gin Fizz: Made from apple cider syrup, gin, orange juice and club soda, this gin fizz is the businizz. (via The Suburban Soapbox)
9. Fire Cider Hot Toddy: Don’t be scared off by this cocktail’s crazy ingredients like horseradish and chile peppers! While definitely not for the faint of heart, it’s a vinegar tonic that can actually ward off sickness and warm you up on a cold day. (via She Eats)
10. Black Peppercorn and Cranberry Shrub With Gin: Looking for a festive drink with some tart flavor and a subtle spice? Try this earthy cocktail with an herbal element from the gin. (via With Food and Love)
11. Pomegranate Apple Cider Spritzer: Pretty poms are in season again, so it’s time to whip up a refresher containing it. Fresh pomegranate juice, limes, vodka and club soda make for a fruity and festive delight. (via Healthy Nibbles and Bits)
What kind of drink will we catch you with in hand? Let us know your favorite winter go-to cocktail recipes below!