There’s something truly enchanting about holiday gatherings, where laughter floats in the air, and the scent of spices dances around every corner. As I prepared for this year’s festive get-togethers, I wanted to create something that captured this joyful spirit. Enter the Mrs. Claus Cocktail, a delightful blend of vibrant flavors that brings a festive cheer to any celebration.
Picture this: a sparkling drink with a hint of sweetness, perfect for toasting to new memories. The combination of gin, cherry vodka, and fruity punch will have you dreaming of cozy evenings by the fire, surrounded by loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet night in, this easy-to-make cocktail is a showstopper that everyone will adore. Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your holiday festivities with this charming concoction!
Why is the Mrs. Claus Cocktail a Must-Try?
Festive Fun: This cocktail encapsulates holiday joy, with its bright colors and playful sprinkles that’ll make every toast feel extra special.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can whip up this drink in no time—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Flavorful Harmony: The blend of gin, cherry vodka, and fruit punch creates a refreshing taste that balances sweetness and fizz wonderfully.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer vodka or want a non-alcoholic twist, adapt the recipe to suit your taste and occasion.
Party Showstopper: Its inviting appearance and vibrant flavors mean your guests will be raving about this cocktail long after the last sip.
Mrs. Claus Cocktail Ingredients
For the Base
- Gin – Provides a smooth base for the cocktail; substitute with vodka if desired.
- Cherry Vodka – Adds sweetness and cherry flavor; use regular vodka for a milder taste.
- Hpnotiq – A fruity liqueur contributing a tropical note; can be replaced with Blue Curacao for a different flavor profile.
For the Punch
- Fruit Punch – Brings sweetness and fruity elements; any preferred fruit juice blend can substitute.
- Sprite – Adds fizz and sweetness; club soda can be used for less sweetness.
For the Garnish
- Sugar Plum Sprinkles – Used for rimming the glass to enhance presentation; other sprinkles can work as alternatives.
- Honey – Serves as an adhesive for the sprinkles on glass rims; simple syrup is a suitable substitute.
Now that you’re equipped with all the Mrs. Claus Cocktail ingredients, let’s dive into the joyful process of mixing this delightful drink and spreading festive cheer!
How to Make Mrs. Claus Cocktail
-
Prepare the Glass: Dip the rim of your cocktail glass into honey, then roll it through the sugar plum sprinkles to create a festive, sweet rim. Set aside while you mix the drink.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add ice, gin, cherry vodka, Hpnotiq, and fruit punch. The ice helps chill and mix everything beautifully as you prepare your holiday cheer!
-
Shake it Up: Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. You want to achieve a nice frothy texture and ensure all the flavors meld together.
-
Strain the Mixture: Carefully strain the mixed drink into your rimmed glass, ensuring you have a smooth pour that showcases the vibrant colors.
-
Add Fizz: Top off your creation with Sprite for that bubbly finish. Watch the effervescence swirl through the fruity mixture, bringing your cocktail to life!
Optional: Garnish with fresh fruit or a holiday-themed stir stick for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mrs. Claus Cocktail
-
Room Temperature: This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh; however, if prepared without the Sprite, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
-
Fridge: Store any leftover mixed spirits (gin, cherry vodka, Hpnotiq, fruit punch) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the Sprite just before serving.
-
Freezer: If you wish to prepare in advance, consider freezing the mixed spirits in an ice cube tray for easy use later. They should maintain their flavor for up to 2 months.
-
Reheating: The Mrs. Claus Cocktail is meant to be served cold, so skip the reheating! Just blend the frozen cubes with fresh Sprite to revive the flavors and enjoy a festive drink in no time.
Expert Tips for the Mrs. Claus Cocktail
-
Chill Your Glass: Always chill your cocktail glass before serving to keep your Mrs. Claus Cocktail refreshingly cool throughout the toast.
-
Mix Ingredients Cold: Ensure all liquid ingredients, especially the gin and fruit punch, are well-chilled. This guarantees a delightful flavor without dilution.
-
Rim with Care: When rimming the glass with honey and sprinkles, be generous but also gentle to avoid making a sticky mess and waste sprinkles.
-
Don’t Over-shake: Shake the cocktail just enough to mix the ingredients and create a frothy texture; over-shaking can lead to a dilute drink.
-
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in your favorite fruit juices or liqueurs for a unique twist while keeping the spirit of the Mrs. Claus Cocktail.
Make Ahead Options
The Mrs. Claus Cocktail is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can mix the gin, cherry vodka, Hpnotiq, and fruit punch up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. As for the glass rim, prepare it by rimming your glasses with honey and sugar plum sprinkles, which can be done ahead and stored separately. When you’re ready to serve, just shake the chilled mixture with ice, strain it into your glasses, and top off with Sprite for a bubbly finish. This way, you’ll have a delightful, festive drink ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
Mrs. Claus Cocktail Variations
Feel free to get creative and make the Mrs. Claus Cocktail your own with these fun variations and substitutions!
-
Non-Alcoholic: Replace all spirits with flavored sparkling water and omit the honey for a refreshing mocktail that everyone can enjoy. It’s the perfect way to include everyone in the festive spirit!
-
Berry Blast: Swap cherry vodka for raspberry vodka and use a mixed berry juice instead of fruit punch for a vibrant, berry-flavored twist. Your cocktail will burst with color and flavor!
-
Tropical Delight: Substitute Hpnotiq with coconut rum or blue Curacao for a tropical vibe. This variation will transport you to a sunny beach with each sip!
-
Spicier Edge: Add a splash of ginger ale in place of Sprite for a zesty kick that adds warmth and spice to the mix. Perfect for those chillier holiday evenings!
-
Citrus Sparkle: Mix in some fresh citrus juice, like lime or orange, along with your usual ingredients to brighten the cocktail’s flavor profile. Zesty and invigorating!
-
Sweet Cinnamon: Rim your glass with cinnamon sugar instead of regular sprinkles for a cozy holiday twist. It adds a delightful aroma that pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s fruity notes.
-
Peachy Keen: Use peach vodka instead of cherry vodka and mango juice instead of fruit punch for a warm, summery feel. Who says you can’t bring a touch of summer to winter festivities?
-
Herbal Infusion: Experiment by incorporating fresh herbs like mint or basil in your shaker. Muddling these herbs adds a refreshing layer that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Your holiday gatherings are bound to be even more delightful with these marvelous variations. Cheers to every sip filled with joy and creativity!
What to Serve with Mrs. Claus Cocktail?
Elevate your festive gatherings by creating a delightful spread that complements the cheerful spirit of the season.
-
Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully, providing creamy and nutty flavors that balance the sweetness of the cocktail. Serve with fresh fruits for added zest.
-
Spiced Nuts: A crunchy bowl of spiced nuts adds a delightful contrast, offering savory notes that enhance the drink’s fruity profile. The crunch and warmth will keep guests coming back for more!
-
Gingerbread Cookies: Sweet and spicy, these classic cookies add a festive touch that perfectly complements the cocktail’s sweet flavors. They’re great for munching as you sip and chat by the fire.
-
Mini Crab Cakes: The succulent seafood and crispy exterior provide a rich, savory bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, bubbly cocktail. Your guests will appreciate this elegant addition!
-
Roasted Vegetables with Honey Glaze: The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with a honey glaze mirrors the honey in the cocktail, creating a harmonious dining experience that feels both festive and wholesome.
-
Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will brighten the palate, enhancing the fruity undertones in the cocktail. This vibrant dish is a must-have for a colorful table!
-
Mulled Wine: For a cozy drink alternative, offer mulled wine to guests who prefer something warm and aromatic, creating a delightful pairing with the bright, fizzy cocktail.
-
Chocolate Fondue: Indulge your sweet tooth with chocolate fondue! It pairs perfectly with the cocktail and turns dessert into a fun, interactive experience for your guests.
By combining these dishes with the Mrs. Claus Cocktail, you’ll create a beautifully balanced menu that sparks holiday cheer!
Mrs. Claus Cocktail Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit for this cocktail?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can add a delightful touch to your Mrs. Claus Cocktail. I recommend using cherries or slices of citrus like oranges or limes for garnish. Simply drop them into the glass after pouring the cocktail, and watch how beautifully they enhance both the color and flavor!
How should I store the leftover cocktail?
The best way to store any leftover mixed spirits (gin, cherry vodka, Hpnotiq, and fruit punch) is in an airtight container in the fridge. They can sit there for up to 3 days, but don’t forget to add the Sprite right before serving to keep that refreshing fizz intact!
Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?
Yes, you can! I often mix the spirits ahead of time for convenience. Just remember to keep it in the fridge and only add the Sprite when you’re ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy the cocktail without any hassle during your holiday gathering!
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Mrs. Claus Cocktail?
Very! To create a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the spirits with flavored sparkling water or a combination of fruit juices. Omit the honey if you don’t want the rim, or use a flavored syrup as a fun alternative. It’s just as festive and delicious!
How long can I keep the components in the fridge before mixing?
If you’ve prepared the spirits but haven’t mixed them yet, I recommend using them within 3 days for optimal taste. Once mixed, enjoy right away for the best experience, as the effervescence from the Sprite diminishes over time.

Festive Mrs. Claus Cocktail to Spark Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Glass: Dip the rim of your cocktail glass into honey, then roll it through the sugar plum sprinkles to create a festive, sweet rim.
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add ice, gin, cherry vodka, Hpnotiq, and fruit punch.
- Shake it Up: Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Strain the Mixture: Carefully strain the mixed drink into your rimmed glass.
- Add Fizz: Top off your creation with Sprite for a bubbly finish.










