Skip the cookie plate and enjoy these gingerbread flavored cocktails

While the stand mixer might be on constant whirl and oven might continually warm the kitchen, the sweet, spicy holiday flavors are not necessarily limited to the plate. Gingerbread flavored cocktails bring that warm, cozy seasonal vibe with just a vigorous shake.

As the lights twinkle on the tree or the snow gently falls on the house, many people crave cozy moments. It might be a simple night gazing into the fireplace or watching that favorite holiday movie with lines known by heart. Whatever the scenario, a beverage is often within reach.

Although Santa’s cookies might be served with a cup of milk, the reality is that the cookies are not the only way to enjoy those seasonal flavors. The gingerbread men might be well decorated, but some people could feel a tad guilty about breaking off that leg and taking a bite.

Still, people enjoy that gingerbread flavor. Coffee beverages have embraced the spiciness. Even if some brands might not highlight the combination anymore, people still want to put that cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, and other notes in the glass.

Gingerbread flavored cocktails shake up that taste in a fun, yet familiar way. While peppermint and eggnog might get all the play, it is time to change that conversation. No one should be afraid to break off a piece of the gingerbread conversation and take the flavor off the plate.

Two gingerbread flavored cocktails to try.

A martini is often a great option to use as a base for a seasonal cocktail. In this option from American Harvest Vodka, the combination of sweet Irish Cream and Gingerbread Syrup feels like a dessert cocktail. When it is time to swap that coffee drink at the end of a meal, consider this seasonal cocktail.

American Gingerbread Martini

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz. American Harvest Organic Vodka
• 1.5 oz. Irish Cream
• 2 tbsp. Gingerbread Syrup
• .25 tsp. Vanilla Extract
• 1 oz. Half & Half

Method

• Combine all ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice.
• Shake and strain into a glass.

Garnish

• Rim with Crushed Gingerbread Cookie and top with Whipped Cream and a Gingerbread Cookie

While some people might enjoy cookies and coffee, this cocktail from Crystal Head Vodka captures that food and beverage pairing. The cocktail might require a little more effort but the flavor is worth it.

Gingerbread Express 

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ oz. Crystal Head Onyx
• ¾ oz. Espresso
• ¾ oz. Gingerbread Coco Lopez*

Directions:

• Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Double strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with star anise.

Gingerbread Coco Lopez:

Add all Add 1 can of Coco Lopez to a saucepan with 2oz. of fresh grated ginger, 2oz. cinnamon and 1oz. vanilla paste. Bring everything to a boil while stirring often. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool and store in a mason jar.

This holiday season, put down the eggnog, coquito, or peppermint mocha. It is time to build some momentum for gingerbread and create a strong foundation for this seasonal sipper.