• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Drinks

26 Cocktail Mixers That Get The Party Started Fast

Published: Apr 6, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Cocktails are the heart of any great party, and these mixers are the perfect way to kick things off fast. Whether you're hosting a casual hangout or a special celebration, these recipes are all about delivering bold flavors with little effort. You'll get a great drink every time, ready to impress your guests and keep the good times rolling.

A glass of Sparkling Meyer Lemon Blackberry Jam Prosecco Cocktail.
Sparkling Meyer Lemon Blackberry Jam Prosecco Cocktail. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Champagne Cocktail

Champagne Cocktail. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Champagne adds a celebratory touch to any occasion with its light, bubbly charm. It’s perfect for raising a glass and toasting with loved ones during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Champagne Cocktail

Cranberry Margarita

Festive Holiday Cranberry Margarita. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Cranberry Margarita blends silver tequila, triple sec, and cranberries for a refreshing, colorful cocktail. Its vibrant presentation makes it a fun choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Festive Holiday Cranberry Margarita

Blackberry Gin and Tonic

Top down view of two blackberry gin and tonics with crushed ice.
Blackberry Gin and Tonic. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

The Blackberry Gin and Tonic refreshes the traditional G&T with muddled blackberries for a fruity twist. It’s a flavorful drink that adds a fresh element to any holiday or fall gathering.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Gin and Tonic

Elderflower Mojito Rum Cocktail

Elderflower Mojito Rum Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Elderflower Mojito mixes rum with St. Germain elderflower liqueur for a light and refreshing cocktail. It’s a sophisticated choice for enhancing holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Elderflower Mojito Rum Cocktail

Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail

Two champagne pomegranate cocktails in coupe glasses on a dark blue background scattered with pomegranate seeds.
Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

The Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail balances the sweet notes of pomegranate juice with the bitterness of orange liqueur. It’s a festive and lively drink that works perfectly for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail

Sparkling Meyer Lemon Blackberry Jam Prosecco Cocktail

Sparkling Meyer Lemon Blackberry Jam Prosecco Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Meyer Lemon Blackberry Jam Prosecco Cocktail blends Meyer lemon and blackberry for a sparkling, refreshing drink. It’s a great way to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Eve.
Get the Recipe: Sparkling Meyer Lemon Blackberry Jam Prosecco Cocktail

Kir Royale

Kir Royale. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The Kir Royale blends Champagne with crème de cassis to create a refined French cocktail. It's a drink that brings an elegant feel to any holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Kir Royale

Eggless Coquito Con Dulce De Leche

Eggless Coquito Con Dulce De Leche. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Eggless Coquito con Dulce de Leche offers a creamy coconut-infused Puerto Rican rum eggnog without eggs. This rich, festive drink is perfect for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Coquito Con Dulce De Leche

Vesper Martini Cocktail

Vesper Martini Cocktail. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The Vesper Martini mixes gin and vodka for a strong and sophisticated drink. It’s a stylish option for those seeking a bold cocktail at holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Vesper Martini Cocktail

Cranberry Cosmopolitan Cocktail

Cranberry Cosmopolitan Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Cranberry Cosmopolitan features vodka, cranberry, and lime for a bright, easy-to-make cocktail. It’s a fun way to add sparkle to holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cosmopolitan Cocktail

Orange Cranberry Sangria Mocktail

Orange Cranberry Sangria Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

The Orange Cranberry Sangria Mocktail blends vibrant orange and cranberry flavors for a refreshing non-alcoholic option. It’s a great way to keep the festive mood alive at holiday events.
Get the Recipe: Orange Cranberry Sangria Mocktail

Apple Pie à la Mode Cocktail

Apple Pie à la Mode Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Apple Pie à la Mode Cocktail combines Fireball whisky and vanilla vodka, bringing comforting apple and cinnamon flavors together. It’s a great choice for fall or holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie à la Mode Cocktail

Gingerbread White Russian

Gingerbread White Russian. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

The Gingerbread White Russian brings together coffee liqueur and a sweet molasses drizzle for a rich, festive drink. It’s a perfect option for adding holiday cheer to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread White Russian

Very Merry Melon Grinch Green Cocktail

Very Merry Melon Grinch Green Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Melon Grinch Green Cocktail mixes watermelon rum, melon liqueur, and blue Curaçao for a tropical drink with tangy citrus notes. It’s an exciting choice for Christmas or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Very Merry Melon Grinch Green Cocktail

Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail

Two empress 1908 gin sours next to a bottle of purple gin.
Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

The Empress 1908 Gin Sour features color-changing gin, making it a visually stunning cocktail. It’s a drink that adds flair and conversation to any holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail

Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail

Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Bourbon Old Fashioned combines bourbon with a few essential ingredients to create a simple yet elegant cocktail. It’s a classic drink that adds a sophisticated touch to holiday events.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail

Non Alcoholic Cosmopolitan Cocktail

Non Alcoholic Cosmopolitan Cocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

The Non-Alcoholic Cosmopolitan Mocktail highlights the tangy flavors of cranberry juice and lime. This refreshing drink brings festive flair to gatherings without alcohol.
Get the Recipe: Non Alcoholic Cosmopolitan Cocktail

Raspberry Linzer Cookie Shots

Raspberry Linzer Cookie Shots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Raspberry Linzer Cookie Shots combine amaretto, RumChata, and raspberry flavors into colorful, festive drinks. These quick-to-prepare shots are a fun and vibrant addition to any holiday party.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Linzer Cookie Shots

Hibiscus Pomegranate Margarita

A refreshing cocktail made with pomegranate juice and garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Hibiscus Pomegranate Margarita. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

The Hibiscus Pomegranate Margarita uses homemade syrup and pomegranate juice to create a sweet and tart drink. Its vibrant color and flavor make it a festive choice for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Hibiscus Pomegranate Margarita

Maple Apple Whiskey Sour

Maple Apple Whiskey Sour. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Maple Apple Whiskey Sour mixes apple cider, maple syrup, whiskey, and lemon for a drink with seasonal flavors. This easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for adding a festive touch to your holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Maple Apple Whiskey Sour

Manhattan Cocktail

Manhattan Cocktail. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The Manhattan Cocktail is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, creating a sophisticated and strong drink. It’s a classic cocktail perfect for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Manhattan Cocktail

Gingerbread Latte Dessert Rum Cocktail

Gingerbread Latte Dessert Rum Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Gingerbread Latte Dessert Rum Cocktail mixes spiced rum with coffee liqueur for a rich, after-dinner drink. It’s a great choice for cozy holiday nights and festive celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Latte Dessert Rum Cocktail

Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

A glass of whiskey with oranges and a wooden stick.
Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Smoked Old Fashioned enhances the classic Old Fashioned with a subtle smoky flavor. It’s a bold, memorable cocktail that fits perfectly into any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Spiked Bananas Foster Ice Cream Rum Nog Cocktail

Spiked Bananas Foster Ice Cream Rum Nog Cocktail. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The Spiked Bananas Foster Ice Cream Rum Nog combines creamy banana and ice cream flavors with rum for a fun holiday twist. This sweet drink stands out at any party or holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Spiked Bananas Foster Ice Cream Rum Nog Cocktail

Blackberry Basil Mojito

Blackberry iced tea with lime and easy mixed citrus liqueur recipe.
Blackberry Basil Mojito. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

The Blackberry Basil Mojito combines muddled blackberries and fragrant basil for a refreshing drink. Its fruity, herbaceous profile makes it a lively choice for holiday events.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Basil Mojito

Mulled Wine Fireball Jello Shots

Mulled Wine Fireball Jello Shots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Mulled Wine Fireball Jello Shots bring together the warmth of mulled wine and the kick of Fireball whiskey in jello form. These fun shooters are a playful addition to any Christmas or holiday party.
Get the Recipe: Mulled Wine Fireball Jello Shots

More Drinks

  • A mug of S’mores Latte.
    41 winter drinks everyone sips before the fire dies down
  • A glass of Cranberry Cosmopolitan Cocktail.
    29 best new year’s eve cocktail ideas to keep the toasts going
  • An image of two glasses of Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktails.
    32 festive holiday drinks everyone finishes before midnight
  • A glass of Santa’s Hat Coconut Rum Cocktail.
    The 29 holiday cocktails everyone's suddenly mixing this season

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Top view of Corned Beef Au Gratin.
    20 foods from back in the day that quietly faded away
  • Two bowls of Wild Mushroom Soup.
    These 35 winter soups never make it to leftovers
  • A close up photo of instant pot spinach artichoke dip placed in a white bowl with wooden spoon in the side.
    17 old-fashioned appetizers everyone crowds around
  • Top view of Easy Turkey Casserole.
    These 29 casseroles carried families through winter for decades

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC