Holiday Cheer in a Glass: Seasonal Cocktails Perfect for December
There’s something magical about December—the glow of twinkle lights, the energy of holiday gatherings, and the simple joy of slowing down with friends and family. At Palm and Paddle Grille, we believe this season deserves a toast all its own, which is why our bartenders have crafted a lineup of festive cocktails created to warm your spirits and bring a little extra cheer to every occasion.
Whether you're joining us for a holiday dinner, escaping the cold with a cozy drink, or celebrating the end of another year, our seasonal menu is full of flavors that feel just right for December. From smoky bourbon notes to bright cranberry and sweet marshmallow, each cocktail reflects the comfort and celebration of the season.
Below, explore the handcrafted holiday cocktails waiting for you this month—and find your new favorite way to toast the season.
Autumn Cherry: A Smooth, Sip-Slow Toast to the Season
If you love a drink that balances sweetness with depth, the Autumn Cherry is made for you. This cocktail blends Crown Royal with maraschino liqueur, creating a rich cherry profile that doesn’t overwhelm the palate. A splash of Caribbean falernum syrup adds warm spice, giving it a gentle holiday glow, while a dash of orange bitters brightens the finish.
It’s elegant, smooth, and perfect for someone who wants a festive drink without going overly sweet. Pair it with a hearty entrée, enjoy it by the bar as you unwind from holiday shopping, or sip it as a celebratory start to your dinner. No matter how you enjoy it, it’s a December flavor worth savoring.
Smoked Maple Old Fashioned: Cozy, Classic, and Full of Warmth
If December had a signature flavor, it just might be maple. Our Smoked Maple Old Fashioned leans into that cozy winter profile with smoked maple bourbon whiskey as its base—deep, mellow, and full of seasonal comfort.
This cocktail is the perfect companion for a chilly night. The maple notes bring a natural sweetness, while the smoked finish adds a campfire warmth that feels right at home during the holidays. It’s a drink that invites you to kick back, slow down, and settle into the moment.
Old Fashioned lovers will appreciate the twist, and even those who typically prefer lighter drinks may find themselves coming back to this one. It’s a true December staple at Palm and Paddle Grille.
S’more on Fire Martini: Dessert Meets Cocktail
Picture this: the nostalgic flavor of a campfire s’more, but dressed up for the holidays and served in a martini glass. That’s our S’more on Fire Martini, one of the most playful additions to this season’s menu.
We blend marshmallow vodka and chocolate liqueur to capture that rich, fireside sweetness, then rim the glass with crushed graham cracker to complete the classic trio. It’s indulgent, fun, and a favorite for anyone with a sweet tooth.
This drink makes the perfect ending to a meal or a festive centerpiece for a holiday night out. If you’re craving something whimsical, this martini brings the joy of winter gatherings to life—no campfire required.
Favorite Fall Mule: Bright, Refreshing, and Just the Right Amount of Festive
Not all holiday cocktails have to be heavy. Some shine best with crisp, refreshing flavors—and that’s exactly what you’ll find in our Favorite Fall Mule.
We start with muddled limes and Jim Beam for a clean, citrus-forward base. Then we add cranberry juice and our homemade Caribbean falernum syrup to introduce notes of spice and holiday warmth. Finished with ginger beer, this mule is vibrant, zesty, and perfect for anyone who prefers something lighter on the palate.
It’s a great choice before a meal or as a refreshing option for those warm December afternoons Missouri likes to surprise us with. And yes—it's as pretty as it is delicious.
P&P M&M: A Smoky-Smooth Holiday Favorite
The P&P M&M is bold, memorable, and full of layers—just like a great December celebration. This cocktail blends smoky mezcal tequila with Amaro Montenegro, creating a rich balance of herbal and citrus notes. Simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, and orange bitters tie everything together with a bright, seasonal finish.
This drink is for the guests who love complexity in a glass. It’s smooth, sophisticated, and designed for slow sipping. If you’re looking for something outside the traditional holiday cocktail lineup, the P&P M&M is a standout you’ll want to try at least once this season.
Why Seasonal Cocktails Matter This Time of Year
Holiday cocktails aren’t just drinks—they’re part of the experience. They help set the tone for gatherings, dinners, date nights, and little seasonal traditions. A warm bourbon drink can take the chill out of winter air, while something playful and sweet can make your evening feel celebratory and fun.
At Palm and Paddle Grille, our seasonal menu gives guests a chance to enjoy flavors they can’t get year-round. December is a time to indulge, to relax, and to enjoy the little things, and these cocktails were crafted to elevate those moments.
Our bartenders love experimenting with ingredients that feel right for the season—maple, chocolate, cherry, mezcal, cranberry, warm spices—and transforming them into something that tastes like a holiday memory in the making. Whether you're grabbing drinks with friends or adding something special to your dinner, our December lineup is made to complement the season beautifully.
Celebrate the Season With Us
December is one of the most festive months of the year, and our cocktail menu is here to help you enjoy every moment of it. Each drink was crafted to bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of holiday magic to your night out.
If you’re looking for your new favorite December drink—or you simply want to treat yourself—there’s no better time to stop by, cozy up, and sip something seasonal at Palm and Paddle Grille.
Here’s to holiday cheer in a glass. Cheers to December!
