When the holiday season rolls in, it’s time to get creative with your drinks menu. While eggnog and hot cocoa might take the spotlight, a holiday frozen drink can bring a refreshing, playful twist to your celebrations, perfect for both kids and adults.
You can make all of these recipes with any high-powered blender, but for the smoothest, most consistent texture, a machine like the Ninja Slushie Maker works wonderfully. If you don’t have one, your regular blender will still do the job just fine, just be sure it has a strong ice-crushing setting.
1. Frosty Cranberry Citrus Slush
A tangy-sweet slush that looks as good as it tastes — bright red, full of vitamin C, and brimming with holiday cheer.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cranberry juice | 2 cups | Unsweetened preferred |
| Orange juice | 1 cup | Fresh-squeezed for best flavor |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Adds tartness |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | Optional for sweetness |
| Crushed ice | 3 cups | Adjust for texture |
Steps
- Add juices and honey to your blender.
- Add crushed ice last and blend until slushy.
- Serve in martini glasses, garnish with sugared cranberries.
Ninja Slushie Tip: Use the Frozen Drink setting for a perfectly smooth texture.
2. Peppermint White Chocolate Freeze
Creamy, sweet, and pepperminty, this frozen holiday drink tastes like a dessert.
Dairy-Free Substitution Table
| Ingredient | Dairy Option | Non-Dairy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Almond milk |
| White chocolate chips | 1 cup | Dairy-free white chocolate |
| Whipped cream | For topping | Coconut whipped cream |
Steps
- Melt white chocolate in milk over low heat, then let it cool slightly.
- Blend with ice and peppermint extract until thick.
- Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.
Ninja Slushie Tip: Chill the melted mixture before blending so it doesn’t separate.
3. Frozen Pomegranate Ginger Sparkler
A sparkling, jewel-toned drink with a sweet-tart kick.
💡 Interactive Chart Idea: Slider showing Sweetness vs Tartness for adjusting pomegranate juice vs ginger ale ratio.
Steps
- Blend pomegranate juice and ice until slushy.
- Pour into glasses and top with chilled ginger ale.
- Add pomegranate arils for texture.
Ninja Slushie Tip: Add ginger ale after blending to keep the fizz.
4. Tropical Pineapple Coconut Snow
Bring summer to your winter table with tropical flavors.
Nutrition Table (per serving)
| Calories | Sugar | Vitamin C |
|---|---|---|
| 120 | 20g | 45% DV |
Steps
- Blend frozen pineapple chunks with coconut milk until fluffy.
- Serve in a hurricane glass with a pineapple wedge.
Ninja Slushie Tip: Use the Frozen Drink mode and frozen pineapple for extra creaminess.
5. Spiced Apple Cider Granita
A frozen take on a classic fall-winter favorite.
Freezing Method Chart Idea: Timeline showing how ice crystals form during the 3-hour freezing period.
Steps
- Combine apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan, heat until warm.
- Cool, pour into a shallow dish, freeze, and scrape with a fork every 30 minutes until fluffy.
Ninja Slushie Tip: If frozen solid, break into chunks and blend on Pulse mode until fluffy.
Tips for the Perfect Holiday Frozen Drink
- Keep It Slushy Longer: Serve in pre-chilled glasses.
- Texture Control: Adjust ice and liquid ratio depending on how thick you want it.
- Garnish Creatively: Candy cane stirrers, citrus twists, or edible glitter elevate presentation.
- Blender Choice: A strong ice-crushing blender like the Ninja Slushie Maker makes blending easier, but any reliable blender will work.
Serving Ideas Table
| Drink Name | Ideal Garnish | Glass Type | Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frosty Cranberry Citrus | Sugared cranberries | Martini glass | Christmas Eve |
| Peppermint White Chocolate | Candy cane | Irish coffee mug | Holiday brunch |
| Pomegranate Ginger | Pomegranate arils | Champagne flute | New Year’s Eve |
| Pineapple Coconut Snow | Pineapple wedge | Hurricane glass | Winter luau |
| Apple Cider Granita | Cinnamon stick | Coupe glass | Thanksgiving dinner |
FAQs
What are the best non-alcoholic frozen drinks for holiday parties?
Fruit-based slushes, creamy peppermint blends, and spiced granitas are perfect for festive gatherings.
How can I make a frozen drink without alcohol still taste festive?
Use bold flavors like peppermint, ginger, cinnamon, and citrus, and garnish with colorful fruits or candy.
Can I prepare non-alcoholic frozen drinks ahead of time?
Yes — freeze the mixture and re-blend before serving, or store as ice cubes to blend fresh.
Q4: How do I keep a holiday frozen drink slushy for longer?
Serve in pre-chilled glasses, keep drinks on ice, and avoid over-blending.