This year, why not impress your guests with a selection of vegan-friendly cocktails at your Christmas home bar? These delightful, plant-based drinks are perfect for everyone, whether they're vegan or not.
Here’s a selection of five must-try Christmas cocktails that are not only festive but also free from animal products, ensuring that you and your guests can sip on something delicious and cruelty-free.
1. Cranberry & Ginger Sparkler
A bubbly, refreshing drink with a warming hint of ginger – the perfect Christmas party starter!
Ingredients:
200ml cranberry juice (make sure it’s unsweetened and vegan-friendly)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
150ml ginger beer (check the label for vegan status)
50ml vodka (optional for an alcoholic version)
Fresh cranberries and a lime wheel for garnish
Ice cubes
Method:
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour the cranberry juice and lime juice over the ice.
Add the vodka if you're going for the alcoholic version.
Top it off with ginger beer, stir gently, and garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime wheel for a festive touch.
2. Vegan White Russian
This creamy cocktail, traditionally made with dairy, gets a vegan makeover while still maintaining its indulgent flair. A classic for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
50ml vodka
25ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa now offers a vegan version)
25ml coconut cream or oat cream
Ice cubes
Method:
In a rocks glass, fill halfway with ice.
Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
Gently pour the coconut cream over the top, allowing it to float for that classic layered look.
Stir gently to combine, and enjoy the velvety texture!
3. Mulled Wine with a Twist
A warm, spiced mulled wine is a Christmas essential, but this version adds a little extra something for your vegan guests. Most wine is suitable, but double-check that it’s vegan as some use animal products in the fining process.
Ingredients:
750ml vegan-friendly red wine
100ml apple juice
50ml brandy (optional)
3 tbsp maple syrup or agave syrup
2 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
1 star anise
Zest of 1 orange and juice of half
Zest of 1 lemon
Method:
In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients over medium heat.
Stir and bring to a simmer (don’t let it boil or you’ll cook off the alcohol).
Reduce the heat and let it gently mull for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and serve hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.
4. Peppermint Mocha Martini
For coffee lovers who want a holiday treat, this cocktail combines the best of both worlds – peppermint and mocha! It’s like sipping on a festive dessert.
Ingredients:
50ml vodka
25ml coffee liqueur
25ml vegan chocolate syrup
100ml peppermint-infused almond milk (or your favourite plant milk)
Ice cubes
Crushed candy canes or dark chocolate shavings for garnish
Method:
In a shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, chocolate syrup, and peppermint-infused almond milk with ice.
Shake vigorously until chilled.
Strain into a martini glass.
Garnish with crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings.
5. Spiced Apple Cider Punch
A perfect non-alcoholic option for your guests, this spiced apple cider punch is fruity, fragrant, and warming. It’s also great as a base for an alcoholic punch if you want to add a splash of something stronger.
Ingredients:
1 litre vegan-friendly apple cider (check the label, as some ciders use non-vegan processing agents)
200ml orange juice
2 cinnamon sticks
3 whole cloves
1 star anise
A thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
Orange slices for garnish
Ice cubes
Method:
In a large jug, mix the apple cider and orange juice.
Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sliced ginger.
Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to let the spices infuse.
Strain before serving and garnish with fresh orange slices.
A Few Tips for the Perfect Vegan Home Bar
Check your spirits: Many spirits are naturally vegan, but some may use animal products in the filtration or colouring process. Vodka, gin, and rum are generally safe bets, but it’s always good to check. Barnivore.com is a great resource for checking the vegan status of your favourite alcohol.
Dairy alternatives: There are plenty of rich, plant-based alternatives to dairy milk and cream. Almond, oat, coconut, and cashew milk are great substitutes for creamy cocktails.
Sweeteners: Not all sweeteners are vegan – honey, for example, is often used in cocktails. Maple syrup, agave syrup, or simple sugar syrup are excellent plant-based alternatives.
Bottoms Up!
These vegan-friendly cocktails are sure to bring some Christmas cheer to your home bar. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or a festive bash, these drinks will have everyone raising their glasses in seasonal merriment. So, break out the glasses, pour yourself something delicious, and enjoy a cruelty-free Christmas!
Happy Christmas and cheers!
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