Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail: Your New Holiday Cocktail Recipe, and the Ultimate Festive Drink
As the holiday season rolls in, it’s time to add a new twist to your drink repertoire with the Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail.
This not only elevates your holiday party but also gives you a chance to explore different types of alcohol.
Whether you’re a big fan of whiskey and bourbon or you’re more into drink recipes with vodka, this Christmas cocktail has got you covered.

Why This Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail is a Must-Try
If you’ve been enjoying a nice citrus beverage, you’ll love this.
The Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail is not just another holiday season beverage.
It’s a versatile festive drink that caters to different types of alcohol preferences.
From the whiskey lover to the vodka enthusiast, this cocktail will impress even the most discerning of guests.
- Versatility with Alcohol: Whether you’re a big fan of whiskey and bourbon or looking for a drink recipe with vodka, this cocktail has you covered. It’s designed to work well with different types of alcohol, suiting various preferences.
- Ease of Preparation: This cocktail offers complexity in flavor but not in preparation, making you look like a skilled mixologist with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Parties: The recipe is not only delicious but also easily scalable. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a larger holiday party, this cocktail is sure to impress.

Cocktail Ingredients and Their Roles
(See the recipe card below for full ingredient list with quantities & instructions)
- Whiskey: As a big fan of whiskey, I appreciate the flexibility in this drink recipe with vodka or bourbon also as an option. This makes it versatile for different types of alcohol aficionados.
- Orange juice: For those who have been enjoying a nice citrus beverage, the orange juice adds a splash of fruity freshness.
- Ginger syrup: This ingredient adds a kick, enhancing the cocktail’s flavor profile. Instructions to make the ginger simple syrup below.
- Cranberry juice: A staple in any Christmas cocktail, cranberry juice adds a tart and vibrant hue.
- Club soda: For that effervescent touch.
- Ice: Necessary for the perfect chilled drink.
- Orange slices and fresh cranberries to garnish: The finishing touches to a truly festive drink.

How to Make Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail: Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Measure all your liquids.
- Prepare your ice and garnishes.
Craft Your Cocktail
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine your whiskey, orange juice, ginger syrup, and cranberry juice. Shake well.
Serve it Up
- Distribute the mixture evenly between two glasses filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and garnish with orange slices and fresh cranberries.

How to make the ginger simple syrup
Ingredients for ginger syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sliced ginger
Quick Steps:
- Combine sugar, water, and ginger in a saucepan.
- Simmer on medium heat until sugar dissolves, about 30-40 minutes.
- Strain syrup, discard ginger.
- Cool and store in a refrigerator.

Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail Variation: Bourbon, Vodka, or Mocktail
Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail for Bourbon Aficionados:
Love the rich, sweet notes of bourbon? A spiced bourbon will complement the holiday flavors beautifully.
Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail for Vodka Enthusiasts:
If vodka is more your style, you can add a zesty twist by including a splash of lemon or lime juice.
This works exceptionally well if you’re already enjoying a nice citrus beverage.
Naughty but Nice Christmas Mocktail
For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can easily omit the spirits.
Replace the whiskey, bourbon, or vodka with some sparkling water for effervescence, and you’ll still have a delicious and festive drink.
This version keeps the holiday spirit alive, perfect for guests of all ages.

Make Ahead Cocktail Instructions
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the club soda just before serving.

FAQs
Is this drink recipe compatible with other types of alcohol?
Yes, this is a versatile drink recipe that works well with different types of alcohol. Such as whiskey, bourbon, and vodka.
Is the ginger syrup necessary?
Yes, the ginger syrup adds a kick that enhances the cocktail’s flavor profile. You can also substitute it with other syrups like honey or maple syrup if preferred. Even ginger ale would work.
Can I use this recipe for a larger holiday party?
Absolutely, just scale the ingredients. You can also mix the cocktail without the club soda and add it just before serving.
Other Cocktail Recipes to Try!
Poinsettia Champagne Cocktail

Cranberry Kringle Cocktail

Cranberry Mimosa

Sidecar Cocktail

Vodka Sour Cocktail


Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail
This Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail is the ultimate holiday party pleaser! This cocktail is sure to impress even the most discerning of guests.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces whiskey
- 2 ounces orange juice
- 2 ounces ginger syrup
- 4 ounces cranberry juice
- 4 ounces club soda
- Orange slices and fresh cranberries to garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Combine Liquids: In a shaker, mix whiskey, orange juice, ginger syrup, and cranberry juice with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until chilled.
- Pour: Divide into two glasses, topping each with 2 oz of club soda.
- Garnish: Add orange slices and fresh cranberries. Enjoy your festive holiday cocktail!
Notes
Ginger Syrup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sliced ginger
Quick Steps:
- Combine sugar, water, and ginger in a saucepan.
- Simmer on medium heat until sugar dissolves, about 30-40 minutes.
- Strain syrup, discard ginger.
- Cool and store in a refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 361Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 36mgCarbohydrates 59gFiber 4gSugar 35gProtein 2g