Christmas Cheer in a Cup: Yuletide Cocktails and Mixed Drinks

Nothing beats the hustle and bustle of the holidays like a good cocktail. Whether you are planning a party, hosting the in-laws, or just settling in with a loved one, spice up the holidays with a glass (or two) of cheer. The perfect cocktail just might make you forget your aching feet and dwindling wallet, so bottoms up to this years selection of the best Christmas cheer in a cup!

Ginger Snap

Yes, it's just like the cookie!

Ingredients:

• 1 and 1/2 oz. spiced rum
• 1 oz. ginger brandy
• 8 oz. eggnog

Directions:

Put all the ingredients in a blender with a few ice cubes. Garnish with a gingersnap cookie.

You'll be glad to stay in and watch the snow fall with this holiday classic!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz. white chocolate liquor

1 oz. Southern Comfort

4 ounces eggnog

Directions:

Mix ingredients gently, and pour into glass of choice. Serve chilled, but not over ice. Garnish with shaved chocolate or chocolate sprinkles.

Who could resist the yummy goodness of a candy cane? Especially when served in a martini glass...

Ingredients:

• 1/2 oz. peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz. vanilla vodka (plain vodka can be substituted in need be)
• 1 oz. club soda
  
• crumbled candy cane
  

Directions:

Shake schnapps and vodka in a shaker with ice. Pour into a martini glass. Break off a piece of candy cane, or crumble one up and add some bits to the glass. The candy cane will give the drink a nice pink color, and add flavor to the drink. Garnish with a mini candy cane, and use the crumbles to rim the glass.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cranberry juice cocktail
• 3 cups ginger ale or to taste
• 2 cups vodka
• 1 can frozen orange juice from concentrate
• 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur
  
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• pinch allspice
  
• smaller pinch nutmeg
• sugar to taste
• thinly sliced orange

Directions:

Mix ingredients together in large punchbowl. Add the ginger ale slowly, and mix it to taste. Some people like a sweeter punch, and some like a stronger cranberry flavor. Do not stir the frozen orange juice too much, allow it to slowly melt in the punch. Float the orange slices on top of the concoction.

The year's favorite. Good for fall and winter with its sweet but savory goodness! Watch out, the alcohol can barely be tasted, but it definitely packs a punch!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup ginger beer (note: ginger beer is different from ginger ale)
• 1 cup spiced rum
• 2 tbsp. raspberry syrup
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• pinch nutmeg

Directions:

Mix ingredients together in large pitcher. Serve chilled, but not over ice. Can be garnished with cinnamon sticks.