Name: Santa Baby Pink Christmas Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 6 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 oz vanilla-flavored spirit; 1 oz white chocolate liqueur; 1 oz Irish cream liqueur or half-and-half; 0.5 oz grenadine; 1 cup ice cubes; 1 tablespoon simple syrup (for rimming the glass); 2 tablespoons pink sanding sugar or pink sprinkles (for rim); 2 tablespoons whipped cream (for garnish); 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)

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A pink, creamy Christmas cocktail that feels festive, flirty, and perfect for holiday gatherings. Smooth vanilla notes, white chocolate richness, and a splash of grenadine come together for a drink that looks as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cocktail is easy to prepare, visually stunning, and ideal for parties. It has a smooth, dessert-like flavor without being overly heavy, and it can be customized to suit different sweetness levels. Whether you’re hosting a girls’ night or a holiday celebration, this drink always feels special and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 oz vanilla-flavored spirit
1 oz white chocolate liqueur
1 oz Irish cream liqueur or half-and-half
0.5 oz grenadine
1 cup ice cubes
1 tablespoon simple syrup (for rimming the glass)
2 tablespoons pink sanding sugar or pink sprinkles (for rim)
2 tablespoons whipped cream (for garnish)
1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare a martini glass by lightly coating the rim with simple syrup, then dip it into pink sanding sugar or sprinkles until evenly coated.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add the vanilla-flavored spirit, white chocolate liqueur, Irish cream or half-and-half, and grenadine to the shaker.
Shake vigorously for about 15 to 20 seconds until well chilled and creamy.
Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
Top with whipped cream and garnish with a cherry before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
Shake time: 1 minute
Total time: 6 minutes

Variations

For a less sweet version, substitute a raspberry-flavored spirit for the vanilla-flavored spirit.
For a deeper pink color, add an additional 0.25 oz grenadine.
For a richer texture, use full Irish cream instead of half-and-half.
For a non-alcoholic version, combine 1 oz vanilla syrup, 1 oz white chocolate syrup, 3 oz milk, and 0.5 oz grenadine, then shake with ice and strain.

Storage/Reheating

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh and does not store well once mixed. If needed, you can pre-measure the liquid ingredients (except ice and garnish) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving. Reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

You can pre-mix the liquids and store them in the refrigerator, but shake with ice just before serving for the best texture.

Is this drink very sweet?

It is moderately sweet, but you can reduce sweetness by using less grenadine or switching to a raspberry-flavored spirit.

What glass works best for this cocktail?

A martini glass is ideal, but a coupe glass also works well.

Can I skip the sugar rim?

Yes, the sugar rim is optional and mainly adds visual appeal and extra sweetness.

What can I use instead of Irish cream?

Half-and-half or heavy cream works well as a substitute.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Shake longer with ice and use full-fat cream instead of milk-based alternatives.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and shake in a larger shaker.

Is this cocktail suitable for holidays other than Christmas?

Absolutely, its pink color makes it perfect for Valentine’s Day or festive parties year-round.

Can I use food coloring instead of grenadine?

You can, but grenadine adds both color and flavor, making it the better option.

What garnish pairs best with this drink?

Whipped cream and a cherry are classic, but white chocolate shavings also work nicely.

Conclusion

The Santa Baby Pink Christmas Cocktail is a fun, creamy, and eye-catching drink that brings a playful touch to any celebration. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an effortless way to impress guests and add a festive vibe to your holiday menu.