The holiday season brings joy—and with it, a fair share of stress. Between baking, hosting, and checking items off a long to-do list, it can be hard to find a moment to relax. When the presents are wrapped and the errands are done, treat yourself to something festive and refreshing: the Santa Cocktail.
This cocktail is a bright, easy way to unwind. It blends warming spirits and tart cherry juice, finished with a splash of 7UP and a sugared rim for seasonal flair. Simple to prepare and visually festive, the Santa Cocktail makes a lovely signature drink for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
While classics like eggnog and spiced mules are holiday staples, the Santa Cocktail offers a fresh alternative that still feels traditional. It elevates familiar flavors—bourbon, spiced rum, and cinnamon liqueur—balanced with tart cherry juice and a little sweetness. The result is a well-rounded cocktail that’s both drinkable and memorable.
What’s in the Santa Cocktail?
The festive presentation begins with holiday sprinkles around the rim. Combine bourbon, spiced rum, cinnamon liqueur, and tart cherry juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake briefly to blend the flavors, pour over ice, and top with 7UP for a light, fizzy finish. Garnish with a candy cane or more sprinkles for an extra seasonal touch.
The Santa Cocktail is quick to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it an ideal choice for parties or potlucks. It’s festive, attractive, and easy to scale if you’re serving a crowd.
What to serve with the Santa Cocktail
This cocktail pairs well with a wide range of appetizers and holiday dishes. Serve it as guests arrive alongside cheese and crackers, deviled eggs, or a warm spinach-artichoke dip. It also complements a full holiday dinner—think turkey, stuffing, mac and cheese, cornbread pudding, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole—acting as a bright, refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Because it’s easy to sip, guests will likely reach for seconds throughout the evening and into dessert.
Non-alcoholic option
If you prefer not to drink alcohol, the Santa Cocktail adapts easily into a mocktail. Simply omit the spirits and keep the tart cherry juice, simple syrup, and 7UP, then rim the glass with syrup and sprinkles as usual. The result is bright, festive, and just as enjoyable.
Share your experience
If you try the Santa Cocktail, let others know how it turned out. Share your tweaks, favorite garnishes, or serving suggestions—the best holiday recipes are often improved by the personal touches guests bring.
Santa Cocktail
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- Ice
- 1 oz bourbon
- 1 oz spiced rum
- 1/2 oz cinnamon liqueur
- 2 oz tart cherry juice
- 3 oz 7UP
- 2 tbsp. Simple syrup
- Holiday candy sprinkles
Method
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Pour simple syrup onto a small plate or into a shallow bowl.
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Place holiday candy sprinkles on a separate small plate.
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Dip the rim of an 8 oz glass into the simple syrup, then into the sprinkles to coat the rim.
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Set the prepared glass aside.
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In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, spiced rum, cinnamon liqueur, and tart cherry juice with ice.
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Shake briefly to mix and chill the ingredients.
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Fill the prepared glass with ice and strain the cocktail into it.
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Top with 7UP, stir gently, and garnish as desired.