The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in festive flavors and a little extra cheer! These 10 Best Alcohol-Infused Christmas Desserts bring a spirited twist to your seasonal sweets. Whether you’re looking to surprise your guests with something sophisticated or just enjoy a delicious treat with a grown-up edge, these desserts are sure to deliver.
Start with the refreshing, coffee-laced Peppermint Affogato, or indulge in the rich, nutty goodness of Brandy Pecan Pie. For a show-stopping dessert, Apple FlambĂ© Pie adds a dramatic flair with its warm, boozy finish. If you love a classic, Christmas Rum Cake is a moist, flavorful delight, while Honey Beer Pie offers a unique, malty sweetness that’s sure to stand out.
These indulgent recipes will elevate your holiday celebrations with the perfect balance of festive flavors and spirited fun. So, grab your favorite bottles, get baking, and let the merry magic of alcohol-infused desserts add an extra touch of joy to your holiday spread!
1. Peppermint Affogato
Peppermint Affogato is a quick, festive dessert combining peppermint ice cream and freshly brewed espresso. The hot espresso melts the creamy ice cream, creating a luscious, sweet-meets-bitter treat. Crushed candy canes or peppermint bark add a crunchy holiday garnish.
Perfect for entertaining, this dessert comes together in minutes but feels indulgent and sophisticated. The refreshing mint flavor balances the bold coffee, making it a light yet satisfying end to a Christmas meal. Serve it in small glasses or mugs for an elegant presentation that guests will love.
2. Brandy Pecan Pie
Rich and indulgent, Brandy Pecan Pie takes a holiday classic to new heights with a splash of brandy. The buttery crust holds a filling of toasted pecans, eggs, brown sugar, and brandy, creating a dessert with a caramel-like texture and warm, nutty flavor.
The brandy adds depth, making this pie perfect for festive gatherings. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat. Its rich flavor and flaky crust make it an unforgettable centerpiece on any Christmas dessert table.
3. Apple Flambé Pie
Apple Flambé Pie is a show-stopping dessert with a fiery twist. A classic apple pie filling of spiced apples, sugar, and butter gets flambéed with brandy or rum for a dramatic presentation and enhanced flavor. The pie’s golden, flaky crust contrasts beautifully with the tender, caramelized apple filling.
This dessert is both comforting and impressive, perfect for holiday celebrations. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm spices and rich, boozy undertones. The flambé technique ensures it’s not only delicious but also a memorable highlight of your Christmas feast.
4. Christmas Rum Cake
Christmas Rum Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert infused with warm spices and rich rum. The cake, made with butter, sugar, eggs, and a medley of dried fruits, is soaked in a rum syrup, ensuring every bite is decadent and aromatic.
Often garnished with powdered sugar or a rum glaze, it’s a festive treat that evokes holiday cheer. This cake can be prepared ahead, as the flavors intensify over time. Serve it as a centerpiece on your Christmas table, paired with coffee or eggnog for an unforgettable holiday indulgence.
5. Honey Beer Pie
Honey Beer Pie is a unique dessert that blends the sweetness of honey with the malty richness of beer. The filling, a creamy custard-like mixture, is infused with the beer’s subtle bitterness, creating a complex yet balanced flavor.
A buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect base for this intriguing pie. Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of honey, it’s a delightful fusion of sweet and savory. Ideal for adventurous bakers, this pie is a standout addition to Christmas desserts, offering a modern twist on traditional holiday flavors.
6. Spiked Mint Milanos
Spiked Mint Milanos are a boozy twist on the classic cookie. Store-bought or homemade Milano cookies are dipped in a mint-infused liqueur glaze and coated with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
The combination of chocolate, mint, and a hint of alcohol creates a decadent treat perfect for adult holiday parties. These cookies are quick to make and require no baking, making them an easy yet elegant addition to Christmas dessert spreads. Serve them with coffee, hot cocoa, or a peppermint cocktail for a delightful holiday pairing.
7. Apple-Rum Spice Cake
Apple-Rum Spice Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for Christmas. Grated apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a splash of rum create a tender, aromatic cake. The rum-soaked glaze adds a boozy sweetness that complements the spiced apple flavor.
This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its comforting, festive flavors make it a wonderful choice for holiday gatherings, offering a balance of tradition and indulgence that guests will adore.
8. Boozy Raspberry Parfaits
Boozy Raspberry Parfaits are a light and elegant Christmas dessert. Layers of fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and liqueur-soaked cake create a beautiful, flavorful treat. The raspberries add a tart, juicy contrast to the rich cream and spongy cake.
Use a raspberry or amaretto liqueur for an added festive touch. Served in clear glasses, these parfaits are visually stunning and easy to assemble. Ideal for entertaining, they provide a refreshing end to a rich holiday meal, pleasing both the eyes and the palate.
9. Eggnog Cupcakes with Spiced Rum
Eggnog Cupcakes with Spiced Rum are a holiday favorite, combining the classic flavors of eggnog and warming spices. The moist cupcakes are flavored with nutmeg and a splash of rum, while a creamy eggnog buttercream frosting adds decadence.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a festive topper for extra charm. These cupcakes are perfect for Christmas parties, offering a bite-sized treat with a boozy twist. Their rich, comforting flavors make them a standout dessert that celebrates the essence of the holiday season.
10. Chocolate-Bourbon Tart
Chocolate-Bourbon Tart is an indulgent dessert that combines velvety chocolate with the smoky warmth of bourbon. The rich chocolate filling is poured into a buttery tart crust and baked until set. A touch of bourbon enhances the flavor, adding depth and complexity.
Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or sea salt for a sophisticated finish. This tart is an excellent choice for Christmas, offering a decadent treat that pairs wonderfully with a glass of wine or coffee. Its elegant presentation and bold flavors make it a holiday highlight.