Beverages are a huge part of any holiday celebration. And if you are still rounding up your party menu, it helps to learn about some clever holiday drink hacks to make them stand out. These quick and easy ideas are helpful when you don’t have the time (or patience) to make a fancy drink recipe. They also come in handy when you are simply trying to save some cash. I mean, let’s face it — the holidays can do a number on the wallet.
This does not mean you need to sacrifice tasty holiday drinks, though. There are so many ways that you can transform a simple traditional beverage. It is all about clever use of basic ingredients like rosemary sprigs, ice cubes, and sugar. With the right mindset, you can impress your family and friends without running around like a maniac. You know how it goes.
Of course, these tips are not just for cocktails. This list features a healthy mix of hacks for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Many of these hacks will also make your festive drink totally gram-worthy. Basically, you can get the party started as soon as you wake up, unwrap presents, and eat a delicious Christmas brunch. Score.
1Use Frozen Fruits
No one likes a watered down drink. No one. Keep your holiday beverage merry and bright by using frozen fruits as ice cubes. Think cranberries, raspberries, and oranges slices. Yum.
2Skip The Boring Stirring Sticks
Instead of using normal plastic, wood, or metal stirring sticks, why not use something that adds flavor and fun? Cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs, and candy canes are all awesome ideas. Take a tip from Half Baked Harvest and make candied rosemary for your holiday punch.
3Make Juice Or Coffee Ice Cubes
In the same vein as frozen fruits, juice and coffee can be frozen into ice cubes for cold drinks. This popular hack can seriously save your holiday drink. Head to A Beautiful Mess for some tricks on this easy idea.
4Add Colored Sugar To The Rim
It's no secret that sugar steals the spotlight during the holidays. Put it to good use by adding it the rim of each glass. This is an excellent way to add edible sparkle and shine. Use colored sugar for a vibrant touch or white sugar for snowy vibes. You can even use edible glitter or pearl dust. For some inspiration, check out A Beautiful Mess' holiday mai tai recipe.
5Make Fancy Ice Cubes
If you absolutely must make normal ice cubes for a holiday punch, why not spruce them up? Adding cranberries, herbs, and even honey will make a lovely visual. Head to A Beautiful Mess for some tips and tricks.
6Use Milk Instead Of Water
If you're all about hot cocoa, consider using milk instead of water. This will make it super creamy and 10 times more delicious. Coconut, almond, and soy milk are all lovely options.
7Add Tahini To Hot Chocolate
It might sound strange, but hear me out. According to the My Name is Yeh, tahini is perfect for adding a creamy, nutty flavor to hot chocolate. It doesn't hurt that it is healthy, too. So smart.
8Add Curry To Hot Chocolate
Here's another hot cocoa hack worth trying. Joy the Baker shares how curry powder can instantly transform an average cup. Combined with coconut milk and dark chocolate, it's sure to be something special.
9Make Flavored Marshmallows
Marshmallows are a must around this time of the year. Take it up a notch by making a batch of A Beautiful Mess' gorgeous peppermint marshmallows. This is a rad way to transform an average cup of hot cocoa.
10Make Homemade Whipped Cream
This is right up there with DIY marshmallows. Homemade whipped cream will taste better than anything you can get out of a spray can. It's also crazy easy to make. Personally, I'm definitely giving Adventures in Cooking's sea salt chocolate whipped cream a shot.
11Turn It Into An Ice Cream Float
You can instantly transform a warm holiday drink by adding a scoop of ice cream. Hot cocoa, coffee, and eggnog are all solid ideas. While you're at it, use a festive ice cream flavor like this eggnog ice cream by Baked by Rachel.
