20 Vodka Drinks That Will Help Get You Through The Holidays With Your Family

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024

Take the edge off of spending the holidays with extended family with one of these Christmas cocktails. Vodka really is the best way to get in the holiday spirit!

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Cranberry-Orange Vodka Slush

Years ago, my mother made a rosy and refreshing Christmas cocktail with vodka that I’ve never forgotten. The sparkle comes from fruit juices and lemon lime soda. —Melinda Strable, Ankeny, Iowa

Go to Recipe

Pour these vodka Christmas cocktails into one of these cocktail glasses.

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Double Chocolate Martini

Is it a beverage or a dessert? Don't let its looks fool you: This chocolate martini recipe is potent but good! —Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona
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Rubies on Ice

Ginger and pomegranate are made for each other, and the color of this Christmas cocktail with vodka is tantalizing. If you’re looking for a nonalcoholic option, you can easily leave out the vodka for a delicious and festive drink! —Tara Deshpande, New York, New York

These are the most festive Christmas drinks to make this holiday season.

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Irish Creme Drink

We top off holiday celebrations with this creamy beverage. With sweetened condensed milk and ice cream, it's like a liquid dessert!—Fred Schneider, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
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Butterscotch Martinis

The rich flavors of butterscotch and chocolate pair up for a nightcap that will satisfy any sweet tooth. —Clara M. Coulson Minney, Washington Court House, Ohio
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Finnish Mulled Wine

I found this recipe stuck in the pages of my Finnish grandmother's Bible. It takes 24 hours to make. Store tightly bottled in the fridge for up to two weeks. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida

Treat your loved ones this season to one of these Christmas punch recipes. You just might start a new tradition!

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Taste of Home

White Russian

This creamy, coffee-flavored vodka Christmas cocktail is a star at holiday gatherings. A White Russian is equally appropriate before or after dinner. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Go to Recipe

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Chocolate Candy Cane Martinis

This peppermint martini is the perfect vodka Christmas cocktail for a festive gathering of friends. Crushed candy canes on the rim add festive flair. —Crystal Schlueter, Babbitt, Minnesota
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Pear & Ginger Sparkler

I created this twist on a Bellini when a friend gave me some Asian pears she grew in her backyard. If you like ginger and want more of a kick, try substituting ginger liqueur for the vodka. —Jacyn Siebert, San Francisco, California
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Pumpkin Spice White Russian

This pumpkin spice White Russian is a quick and easy twist on the classic drink. The pumpkin mixes well with vodka and Kahlua. —James Schend, Dairy Freed
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Spiced Apple Cider Jelly Shots

These spiced, spiked gelatin squares are sure to get the party started at fall get-togethers. If you’re going for the more traditional shot-style look, pour the mixture into 2-ounce plastic cups and refrigerate until set. — Rachel Seis, Senior Editor, Taste of Home
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Black Russian

Here are no-fuss black Russians that are smooth as silk. Perfect for those who aren't sure what they want. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Homemade Limoncello

This limoncello recipe makes a drink better than any store-bought version. It’s perfect as an after-dinner treat on its own, or whipped up into a vodka Christmas cocktail. —Jenni Sharp, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Pumpkin Pie Shots

Grown-up treats that feature canned pumpkin and butterscotch schnapps will lure guests back for more. The gelatin shots are made ahead, so they're a great party starter. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktails

You’ll love these whimsical champagne cocktails. The cotton candy melts away, leaving behind its pretty pink color.
—Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Moscow Mule

Here's an old-time cocktail that was popular in the 1940s and '50s. A Moscow Mule is traditionally served in a copper mug with plenty of ice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Cranberry-Jalapeno Martini

I describe this cocktail as slightly tart, a little sassy and completely delicious. I make a big batch of this Christmas cocktail with vodka when I’m hosting a party because it tends to disappear quickly. Garnish with fresh mint and cranberries for an extra-special touch. —Kelli Haetinger, Virginia Beach, Virginia
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Pumpkin Pie Martinis

My friends start requesting this cocktail in the fall and continue to ask for it throughout the holidays. Every delectable sip is like a taste of pumpkin pie! —Cathleen Bushman, Geneva, IL
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Orange & Coffee Martini

With its pretty jeweled color and complementary orange-coffee flavor, this impressive martini lends an elegant, upscale feel to any party.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Apple Martini

This icy-cold appletini recipe is very refreshing with a nice hint of sour. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Up Next: What Is Eggnog—and Why Do We Drink It at Christmas?