Written by Sara Macauley I Photographs by Getty Images

A Christmas party wouldn’t be the same without a festive tipple, so we’ve rounded up recipes for 3 of our favourites for you to re-create at home. These boozy drinks are guaranteed to get everyone in the festive spirit, and best of all – they’re quick and easy to make. With a little wiggle room for prep time, these recipes can be knocked up in a flash. No need to spend hours mulling wine or getting stressed mixing up a storm.

SUGARED CRANBERRY GINGER MIMOSA’S

YOU WILL NEED: For sugared cranberries: 12oz fresh cranberries 2 cups white sugar
For mimosas: 2-3oz ginger beer 2-3oz cranberry juice 2-3oz champagne
1. On the morning of the party, prep the sugared cranberries. You’ll need to heat ½ cup of water with ½ cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the sugar has dissolved and the water is simmering, remove from heat and add the cranberries. Allow to soak for 10 minutes.
2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a baking sheet in a flat, single layer and allow to stand for 30 minutes. Pour the remaining sugar over the cranberries and stir to coat. Leave for an hour until the sugar dries.
3. Before the party, combine the ginger beer, cranberry juice and champagne in a champagne flute and top with the sugared cranberries.

WINTER SANGRIA

Recipe from www.bakednewengland.com
YOU WILL NEED: • 1 bottle of sweet red wine • 1 bottle sparkling cran-apple cider • 2 clementines, sliced thin, peel on • 2 granny smith apples, cored and diced • 1/2 cup pomegranate arils • 1 cup cranberries sliced in half • Rosemary to garnish each glass
A truly simple recipe, this Winter Sangria contains lots of lovely festive flavours. All you need to do is mix the wine, cider, and fruit in a large pitcher, serve over ice and garnish with rosemary. Voila, an impressive drink with next to no effort. SANGRIA

SPICED APPLE RUM MOONSHINE

Recipe from www.roughmeasures.com
YOU WILL NEED: • 500ml organic cloudy apple juice • 70ml spiced rum • 1 orange • 1 lemon • 2 cinnamon sticks • 2 tablespoons Christmas Spice Mix (combine ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, juniper berries and all spice) • 2 teaspoons unrefined brown sugar
1. Add the apple juice, cinnamon sticks, sugar and spices to a saucepan and stir. Simmer on a low heat. 2. Slice the orange and lemon and add 2 slices of each to the pan 3. Stirring constantly, wait until the sugar has dissolved before removing from heat and allowing to cool down slightly 4. Split the rum between your glasses, then top with the spiced apple juice and serve.
So, there you have it, 3 delicious and easy to make Christmas cocktails. If you’re feeling extra fancy, wash out some jam jars and serve these Christmas drinks in them for a homely touch. Go forth and wow your guests.
SPICED APPLE RUM