7 sensational Christmas soft drinks

British alcohol consumption increases by 40% over December. In fact, between us, Britons will consume 600 million units of alcohol in the festive month. 

If you’re a non-drinker at Christmas, this can make the winter season seem not-so-jolly, but never fear. These non-alcoholic drinks are full of purely metaphorical festive spirit. 

Cran-raspberry martini

Image via Erica's Recipes

Cranberries are a definitive Christmas flavour—so why not mix them into your drinks?

This martini-with-a-twist blends crushed raspberries with the Yule-tide berry, giving it this delightful Christmassy red colour.

Get the cran-raspberry martini recipe from Delish

Non-alcoholic eggnog

Image via A Sweet Pea Chef

Eggnog is the ultimate Christmas beverage; don’t miss out just because of the alcohol, eggnog doesn’t have to be boozy.

This recipe is simple and uses ingredients you probably already have in your cupboard. You can also use it to create your own eggnog latte—delicious.

Get the non-alcoholic eggnog recipe from A Sweet Pea Chef

Mulled apple juice

Image via Hungry Healthy Happy

The cinnamon, orange and nutmeg flavours in this mulled brew really add to the comforting taste.

Not only does this recipe cut the alcohol but there are considerably less calories than its alcoholic cousins, which means you can drink double the amount… right?

This mulled beverage can easily be made in large quantities for parties, with the option for drinkers to add rum if they want an extra kick.

Get the mulled apple juice recipe from Hungry Healthy Happy

Melted hot chocolate with sea salt whipped cream

Image via Adventures in Cooking

Definitely not the healthy option, but certainly one of the tastiest. This hot chocolate is essentially just melted chocolate, topped with cream. 

The sea-salted topping gives this indulgent treat an even more luxurious edge.

Get the melted hot chocolate with sea salt whipped cream recipe from Adventures in Cooking

Vegan-friendly frozen pretzel hot chocolate

Image via Minimalist Baker

Mocha coconut ice cubes form the base of this drink of vegan dreams.

Almond milk and chocolate syrup sweeten the taste while a small handful of crushed pretzels give it that covetable hint of saltiness.

Get the vegan-friendly frozen pretzel hot chocolate recipe from Minimalist Baker

Spiced cranberry hot toddy

Image via She Wears Many Hats

While away those long winter nights with this warming hot toddy recipe.

The cinnamon and ginger spices not only taste fantastic but will infuse your home with that quintessential Christmassy smell.

Get the cranberry hot toddy recipe from She Wears Many Hats

Milk chocolate peanut butter hot chocolate

Image via: One Sweet Mess

This treat is definitely one for those with a sweet tooth. It’s the equivalent of drinking a peanut butter cup—drinks don’t come much more indulgent.

The recipe makes enough for a large jug, so top it with marshmallows and serve it up to your guests.

Get the milk chocolate peanut butter hot chocolate recipe from One Sweet Mess