Cheers: Christmas Cheer

Holiday plans seem a bit uncertain these days. Will we be able to spend time with all our friends and family or continue to be limited to small groups? With that in mind, it’s best to choose a holiday cocktail that can serve the solo imbiber or scale up for a group of thirsty revelers. Santa’s Pants fits the bill. Make the recipe as given for one drink or increase the portions for a crowd. It can even fill a punch bowl! The infused simple syrup can be made ahead of time, so you are always ready to mix up the drink, even if it’s just for yourself. Its cheery color and festive garnish will invoke the holiday season, no matter whom you are spending it with. The name alone should bring a smile to everyone’s face…something we all can use these days.


SANTA’S PANTS

  • 1/2 oz. rosemary simple syrup (see below)
  • 1 1/2 oz. Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur
  • 1 1/2 oz. cranberry juice
  • 2 oz. rum
  • 1/2 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Garnish: rosemary sprig

1. Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until chilled, about 20 seconds.

2. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass filled with fresh ice.

3. Garnish with rosemary sprig.

- Advertisement -

Rosemary Simple Syrup

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (about 1/4 cup)

1. Combine water, sugar and rosemary leaves in a small saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 1 minute.

3. Remove from heat and let syrup steep, about 30 minutes.

- Partner Content -

New Year, Same You

As we ring in the new year, many of us are familiar with the cycle of making resolutions, especially when it comes to health...

4. Strain syrup into clean jar and let cool. Syrup keeps for a month in the refrigerator.


Substitute the rum with your preferred liquor.
If serving in a punch bowl, do not shake and strain. Instead, chill it ahead of time and add an ice ring to the bowl. As it melts, it will dilute the drink.
Instead of serving over ice, pour into a flute and top with champagne.

PODCAST

Listen to Elizabeth’s podcast “drink & learn;” visit elizabeth-pearce.com

Get Our Email Newsletters

The best in New Orleans dining, shopping, events and more delivered to your inbox.

Digital Sponsors

Become a MyNewOrleans.com sponsor ...

Give the gift of a subscription ... exclusive 50% off

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.

Give the Gift!

Save 50% on all our publications for an exclusive holiday special!

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.