Shake Up the Season | Winter Cocktails to Try at Home

Looking for some fun winter cocktails to brighten the season? These recipes are easy to shake up at home with just a few simple ingredients. A quick grocery run covers the basics, while many garnishes can be found right in the pantry—perfect for adding a personal twist. From sweet to tangy to bold and cozy, there’s something here for every mood.

CRANBERRY MARGARITA
If a lighter, tart sip is calling, the Cranberry Margarita is the perfect place to start.

Photograph by Rylie Obergfell

What you’ll need (serves 1):

• 1.5 ounces (3 tablespoons) blanco or silver tequila
• 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) unsweetened cranberry juice
• 0.75 ounce (1.5 tablespoons) fresh lime juice
• 0.5 ounce (1 tablespoon) orange liqueur, like Cointreau or Triple sec
• Ice cubes
• Coarse salt or sugar for the rim (optional)
• Fresh cranberries and cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. If desired, rim your glass with salt or sugar: rub a lime wedge around the edge, then dip the rim into a shallow plate of coarse salt or sugar.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add the tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, and orange liqueur.
4. Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
5. Strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
6. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of cilantro.

Tip: For a rim that really sticks, spread a thin layer of vanilla frosting before dipping into salt or sugar. It’s a sweet-and-salty combo that takes this cocktail to the next level.

BLUE CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL
This one can be made two ways, depending on your preference!

Photograph by Rylie Obergfell

1. Creamy & Tropical
For those who prefer something rich and indulgent, this piña colada-inspired version brings a festive tropical vibe to winter nights.

What you’ll need (serves 1):

• 1.5 ounces vodka or white rum
• 1 ounce blue curaçao
• 0.5 ounce fresh lime juice
• 2 ounces pineapple juice
• 0.5 ounce cream of coconut
• Shredded coconut for the rim for garnish

Instructions

1. Rim your glass with shredded coconut: rub a lime wedge or vanilla frosting around the edge, then dip into a plate of shredded coconut.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add the vodka (or white rum), blue curaçao, lime juice, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut.
4. Shake well for 15–20 seconds until chilled and frothy.
5. Strain into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
6. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a lime wedge on the rim.

Tip: A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and depth, though it’s optional for those who like it more classic.

2. Tart & Fruity
Not a fan of coconut? No problem, there is another way to enjoy this festive drink without it. This take is crisp and refreshing, balancing sweet citrus with tart fruit flavors.

What you’ll need (serves 1):

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce blue curaçao
• 3 ounces white cranberry juice (keeps the brilliant blue color)
• 3 ounces lemonade
• Fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, blue curaçao, white cranberry juice, and lemonade.
3. Shake well for 10–15 seconds until nicely chilled.
4. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig for a festive touch.

SPIKED HOT CHOCOLATE
When the weather calls for something cozy, this minty spiked hot chocolate is the ultimate winter comfort. Rich, smooth, and endlessly customizable, it’s a treat that never disappoints.

Photograph by Rylie Obergfell

What you’ll need (serves 1):

• 8 ounces (1 cup) whole milk
• 0.75 ounce (1 1/2 tablespoons) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 0.75 ounce (1 1/2 tablespoons) sugar
• 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) semisweet or dark chocolate chips
• A dash (1/8 teaspoon) vanilla extract
• Marshmallows and chocolate syrup for garnish
• 1.5 ounces of peppermint schnapps

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and about 2 tablespoons of the milk until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Add the remaining milk and the chocolate chips, whisking continuously until the mixture is hot and the chocolate chips are fully melted (do not let it boil).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the dash of vanilla extract.
4. Pour 1.5 ounces of peppermint schnapps, then top with the hot chocolate mixture.
5. Garnish with marshmallows and drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Tip: Other add-ins—like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of Irish cream—make this classic even more versatile.

Step Out for a Local Favorite

Not in the mood to mix drinks at home? Galloway’s Cocktail Bar in Fairhaven is the place to be. This cozy, stylish spot is known for inventive, seasonal cocktails that turn every sip into an experience.

A must-try on the menu is their signature drink, “Fork in The Road.” Smooth brandy and a house-made pineapple cordial form the base, bright pineapple juice and fresh lemon and lime add a tangy, tropical lift, while a dash of Angostura bitters brings depth and warmth—and to top it all off, a float of winter-spiced mulled wine adds a rich, layered finish that makes it truly unforgettable. Stop by, take a seat, and let the flavors of this masterful drink show you why Galloway’s is a Bellingham favorite. Galloway’s Cocktail Bar, 1200 10th St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.756.2795, gallowayscocktail.bar