Bumbo
Bumbo has a sweet and spicy taste, with a hint of warmth from the rum. It is smooth and rich, with a velvety texture and a lingering finish.
Drunk Reindeer Cocktail Recipe
Jump to Recipe ⬇️
Drunk Reindeer Nutrition Facts
Calories:~350
Fat:~8g
Protein:~3g
Carbohydrates:~50g
Alcohol:~14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
Contents
History
The Drunk Reindeer is a festive cocktail that has become a favorite in winter holiday gatherings. It's a playful twist on the classic hot chocolate, spiked with a touch of vodka and chocolate liqueur to warm the spirits.
- Origins: While its exact origins are unclear, it's believed to have been concocted by a creative bartender looking to add a kick to traditional holiday drinks.
- Popularity: It's particularly popular among adults who enjoy a sweet treat with a boozy lift.
- Occasions: Best served during the chilly holiday season or at themed parties.
How Drunk Reindeer Tastes?
The Drunk Reindeer offers a rich and creamy taste, with a delightful balance of sweet chocolate and a warm, spicy hint from the cinnamon. The vodka provides a smooth kick that elevates the experience without overpowering the other flavors.
Interesting facts about Drunk Reindeer
- The Drunk Reindeer can be customized with different types of chocolate liqueurs to suit one's taste.
- It's a perfect cocktail for those looking to indulge in something sweet and alcoholic at the same time.
- The cherry garnish adds a pop of color and a fruity note that complements the chocolate flavors.
Ingredients
- Hot chocolate: 8 oz(240ml)
- Vodka: 2 oz(60ml)
- Chocolate liqueur: 2 oz(60ml)
- Cherry: 1
- Cinnamon sticks: 2
- Whipped cream: To taste
- Chocolate shavings: To garnish
A few good options for Drunk Reindeer are:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Khor
- Smirnoff
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate serves as the comforting base for the Drunk Reindeer cocktail. The rich and creamy texture sets the stage for the other ingredients. If you use less, you might find the drink too strong, while more can dilute the flavors. Skimping on it might result in a less indulgent experience.
Mary Mitkina
Vodka
A neutral vodka provides a clean canvas that lets the flavors of the chocolate and spices shine. Using too much can overpower the drink, while too little means you might as well just have a hot chocolate. If vodka isn't your spirit of choice, you could substitute in a smooth rum or brandy.
Mary Mitkina
Chocolate Liqueur
This brings in a deep, velvety chocolate flavor that complements the hot chocolate. The liqueur also adds a hint of sweetness and depth. Without it, the drink might lack complexity. Another option could be to use a coffee liqueur for a mocha twist.
Alex Green
Cherry
The cherry offers a fruity note that acts as a delightful contrast to the richness of the chocolate. A cocktail without it might be too one-note, missing that pop of color and taste. A raspberry can be a zesty alternative, adding an edge of tartness.
Mary Mitkina
Cinnamon Sticks
Perfect for stirring, they slowly infuse the cocktail with warm, spicy notes. Leaving them out could result in a less festive and flat flavor profile. If you're out of sticks, a dash of ground cinnamon could also do the trick, albeit with less subtlety.
Mary Mitkina
Whipped Cream
It adds a light, creamy top layer that melds smoothly with the hot mixture below. If you omit the whipped cream, the drink tends to be less visually appealing and you’ll miss that cool contrast. Coconut whipped cream could be a dairy-free alternative.
Alex Green
Chocolate Shavings
Used to garnish, they add texture and an extra hint of chocolate to every sip. Without them, the drink is still delicious but lacks a finishing touch. Grated nutmeg or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can also serve as alternatives.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Drunk Reindeer Drink
- Prepare 8 ounces of hot chocolate and pour it into a mug.
- Add 2 ounces of vodka and 2 ounces of chocolate liqueur.
- Stir with cinnamon sticks, leaving them in as garnish.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Garnish with a cherry on top.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality hot chocolate for the best flavor base.
- Heat the mug before pouring the hot chocolate to keep the drink warmer longer.
- If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, choose a dark chocolate liqueur.
Perfect Pairings
Desserts
- Chocolate Cake: The rich chocolate flavors of the cake pair exquisitely with the chocolatey notes of the cocktail.
- Cheesecakes: A classic New York cheesecake can counterbalance the sweetness with its slight tanginess.
- Holiday Cookies: Seasonal cookies complement the festive vibe.
Snacks
- Roasted Nuts: Especially almonds or hazelnuts for their complementary nutty flavor.
- Dark Chocolate: A piece of high-quality dark chocolate to enhance the chocolate in the drink.
Coffees
- Espresso: For those who want a caffeine kick along with their cocktail.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Drunk Reindeer
- Vodka: You can use vanilla-flavored vodka for an extra hint of sweetness.
- Chocolate Liqueur: Brands like Godiva or Ghirardelli can be used for a richer chocolate taste.
- Whipped Cream: Coconut whipped cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
Explore all drinks starting with D here
And of course - twists🍹
Peppermint Patty Drunk Reindeer
- Add a splash of peppermint schnapps.
- Garnish with a candy cane instead of a cinnamon stick.
- The peppermint will add a fresh, minty zing to your chocolaty concoction, making it even more Christmassy.
Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate
- Add a pinch of chili powder and a splash of coffee liqueur.
- Replace vodka with a reposado tequila.
- This twist gives you a spicy kick with a hint of coffee, a reflection of the traditional Mexican hot chocolate.
Boozy Nutella Drunk Reindeer
- Use hazelnut liqueur instead of chocolate liqueur.
- Stir with a chocolate stick and sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top.
- The addition of hazelnut introduces a nutty, luxurious layer to your festive cocktail, perfect for Nutella lovers.
In case you forgot basics how to make Drunk Reindeer
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Drunk Reindeer
What is the best way to serve the Drunk Reindeer cocktail?
The Drunk Reindeer cocktail is best served hot in a ceramic or glass mug to retain its warmth, ideal for cold weather. Serving it with a cinnamon stick stirrer and a cherry garnish enhances both the flavor and presentation.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Drunk Reindeer?
Yes, you can enjoy a non-alcoholic version by substituting the vodka and chocolate liqueur with chocolate syrup or a non-alcoholic chocolate-flavored beverage syrup.
What type of vodka is recommended for the Drunk Reindeer?
While any quality vodka will work, a smooth, neutral-flavored vodka is recommended to not overpower the chocolate and cinnamon notes of the cocktail.
Is the Drunk Reindeer suitable for children?
No, the Drunk Reindeer contains alcohol and is not suitable for children. However, a non-alcoholic hot chocolate with similar garnishes can be prepared for children to enjoy.
Can the Drunk Reindeer be prepared in advance?
The hot chocolate base can be prepared in advance, but it's best to add the alcohol and garnishes just before serving to ensure the cocktail is enjoyed at the right temperature and flavor.
More similar recipes to Drunk Reindeer!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
cinnamonPin It
Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a warm, soothing, and comforting cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of honey and the warmth of whiskey are complemented by the tanginess of lemon and the subtle spiciness of cinnamon and cloves.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a sweet, creamy, and rich drink with a velvety texture. It has a subtle hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, giving it a warm and comforting flavor. The drink is mildly boozy, with a smooth and gentle finish.
Chocolate Martini
The Chocolate Martini is rich, creamy, and sweet, with a velvety chocolate flavor and a hint of vanilla. It has a smooth, luxurious mouthfeel and a slightly boozy kick from the vodka.
Almond Joy
The Almond Joy cocktail is a sweet, creamy, and indulgent drink with a rich chocolate flavor, nutty almond undertones, and a hint of tropical coconut. It is a smooth and velvety cocktail with a well-balanced sweetness.
Brown Cow
The Brown Cow cocktail offers a rich, creamy, and sweet flavor profile. It has a velvety texture with hints of chocolate and coffee, making it a delightful treat for the taste buds. The drink is well-balanced, with the sweetness of the chocolate liqueur complemented by the subtle bitterness of the coffee liqueur.
Irish Coffee
Irish Coffee is a warm, rich, and creamy cocktail with a perfect balance of bitter coffee, sweet sugar, and smooth Irish whiskey. The whipped cream adds a luxurious, velvety texture.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum has a rich, creamy, and buttery taste with a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar and a warming sensation from the spices and rum. The flavors are well-balanced, making it a perfect winter cocktail.
Glogg
Glogg has a warm, spiced, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of red wine, brandy, and spices creates a rich and comforting flavor profile that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
Heath Bar
The Heath Bar cocktail has a rich, creamy, and sweet taste with a hint of toffee and chocolate. It's smooth and velvety, with a slight warmth from the alcohol.
Mexican Coffee
The Mexican Coffee cocktail offers a rich and bold coffee flavor, with a hint of sweetness from the coffee liqueur. The tequila adds a warm and slightly spicy kick, while the whipped cream provides a smooth and creamy finish.
Nutty Irishman
The Nutty Irishman is a creamy, sweet, and rich cocktail with a smooth, velvety texture. The combination of Irish cream and hazelnut liqueur creates a delightful nutty flavor, while the whipped cream adds a luxurious, indulgent finish.
Apple Blow Fizz
The Apple Blow Fizz has a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and slightly spicy flavors. The apple and lemon juices provide a refreshing and tangy base, while the cinnamon syrup adds a touch of warmth and sweetness. The gin and egg white give the cocktail a smooth and creamy texture, while the soda water adds a light and fizzy finish.
Bonfire
The Bonfire cocktail has a smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy taste. It is a well-balanced drink with a hint of warmth and a smooth finish.
Butter Rum
The Butter Rum cocktail is a rich, creamy, and indulgent drink with a smooth, buttery texture. The sweetness of the rum is balanced by the warmth of the spices, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile.
London Fog
The London Fog cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, creamy, and slightly citrusy flavors. The Earl Grey tea provides a subtle, floral undertone, while the addition of vanilla and lavender syrup adds a touch of sweetness. The steamed milk gives it a rich, velvety texture, making it a perfect drink for a cozy evening.
Sherry Flip
The Sherry Flip has a rich, creamy, and velvety texture with a delicate balance of sweetness and nuttiness from the sherry. It is a smooth and warming drink with a hint of spice from the nutmeg.
Dog's Nose
The Dog's Nose cocktail has a unique taste that combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the bitterness of stout beer, and the warmth of gin. It is a well-balanced drink with a smooth, creamy texture and a slightly tangy aftertaste.
Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea is a complex blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of cola and sour mix with the boldness of multiple spirits. It is a strong, yet surprisingly smooth cocktail with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and tangy cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice creates a well-balanced and invigorating flavor profile.
White Russian
The White Russian is a creamy, sweet, and slightly strong cocktail. The combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.