Creative Christmas Drink Ideas with Guinness

Mulled wine has become somewhat synonymous with Christmas for good reason. But if you’d like to try something different this Christmas, try this inventive take on an old classic. Full of cosy winter flavours, a Mulled Guinness is sure to warm you up during the cold snaps. Simply combine a 440ml can of Guinness, 500ml of apple juice into a pot, add half a teaspoon of ground nutmeg, a cinnamon stick, a star anise and leave it to simmer on a medium heat for about 20 minutes. If you want an extra splash of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey just before taking it off the heat. Be sure to remove the star anise and cinnamon stick before serving.

Apparently, this beloved mixture dates back to 1764 at the Brook’s Club London where it was created to commemorate the passing of Queen Victoria’s husband, Albert.  Today, it’s shaken off its sombre history to be a real party favourite. This classic cocktail is a great addition to any festive gathering and perfect for anyone who loves to host but would rather by-pass the hours of preparation that goes beforehand. Simple, quick, and delicious there’s no reason not to add this to your Christmas celebrations. Just take a champagne flute and fill half of the glass with a champagne of your choosing and half of the glass with Guinness. Voila! A tasty cocktail to please every reveller. Guinness is the perfect accompaniment to this cocktail, providing a rich and creamy base to the drink. You can also try using cider instead of champagne for a slightly sweeter combination. Be sure to chill both ingredients before combining. Click here for recipe and method.

A Bloody Mary is perhaps the iconic brunch cocktail. Refreshing yet hearty, adding Guinness is an inventive way to spice up this classic staple. For this recipe you’ll want a cocktail shaker close to hand as you combine 45 ml of vodka, 90 ml of tomato juice, two pinches of celery salt and pepper, some seafood seasoning, dashes of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and the juice of one lemon. Shake these well and drain the mixture into an ice-filled glass before topping it off with a Guinness Draught Beer. Slice a lime wedge and add a celery stick for a stylish garnish. Click here for recipe and method.

Chocolate lovers will rejoice at this truly decadent blend sure to delight guests. This cocktail can easily take the place of a dessert for those who would rather go all out with a cocktail than indulge in more pudding. Either way, it’s simple to make once you have the ingredients gathered. Simply prepare a glass with ice, pour 30ml White Crème de Menthe and top up with Guinness. You can garnish this lip-licking drink with some mint leaves. To add an extra flair, pair with an After Eight placed on a side plate. Click here for recipe and method.

Remember, the key to a perfect Guinness cocktail lies in the quality of ingredients and the care in preparation. Take your time to savour the process of crafting these drinks and enjoy the unique combination of flavours that each one brings. These cocktails are not just drinks but an experience, a fusion of tradition and innovation, perfect for making holiday memories.

As you raise your glass this Christmas, let these Guinness-infused creations remind you of the joy and warmth of the season. Whether you're toasting with family, sharing a laugh with friends, or enjoying a quiet moment by the fireside, these cocktails are sure to add a special touch to your holiday cheer. Sláinte, and may your Christmas be filled with happiness, health, and delightful Guinness cocktails!