Christmas is a joyous time filled with family, friends, food, and festive drinks. Many delicious beverages are associated with the holiday season, from hot chocolate to mulled wine. But which drink reigns supreme as the most popular Christmas beverage? Let’s explore some of the top contenders.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a classic Christmas drink made from milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It originated in medieval Britain as a warm ale-like beverage and evolved over time into the creamy dessert drink we know today. Eggnog is traditionally served chilled and sometimes embellished with rum, brandy, or bourbon.
This sweet, custard-like beverage is a staple at Christmas parties and a perfect accompaniment to holiday cookies. Thick and indulgent, eggnog latte variations are popular menu items at coffee shops during the Christmas season.
According to a YouGov poll, eggnog is the favorite Christmas drink of 10% of Americans. It evokes nostalgia and memories of holidays past for many people. The flavors of nutmeg, vanilla, and custard are quintessentially Christmas.
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a wonderful wintertime drink consisting of heated milk or cream and melted chocolate or cocoa powder. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing beverage to serve after coming in from the cold.
This cozy classic can be customized in endless ways. Peppermint hot chocolate is popular around Christmas by adding crushed candy canes or peppermint extract. Toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, and candy canes can make it even more festive.
According to a survey by Nielsen, hot chocolate is the most popular Christmas drink in America. Over 50% of respondents said it was their top choice. With its sweet chocolatey flavor and ability to warm you from the inside out, it’s easy to see why hot cocoa is a holiday favorite.
Hot Chocolate Consumption Survey
| Beverage | Percentage Choosing as Favorite |
|---|---|
| Hot Chocolate | 52% |
| Apple Cider | 22% |
| Eggnog | 12% |
| Mulled Wine | 7% |
| Hot Buttered Rum | 4% |
| Other | 3% |
Apple Cider
Warm, spiced apple cider is a delicious staple during the winter months. The sweet aroma of mulled cider instantly evokes the holiday spirit. It’s made by heating up apple cider with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, cloves, maple syrup, or other spices.
Adult versions incorporate liquor like rum or bourbon. The warm, fruity flavor pairs perfectly with holiday cookies or gingerbread. It’s an easy crowd pleaser for Christmas gatherings.
According to the Nielsen survey, apple cider comes in second place as the most popular Christmas drink. About 22% of respondents chose it as their favorite choice. The comforting warmth and scent of spiced cider is evocative of the holidays for many people.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a traditional Christmas drink with European origins. Red wine is combined with spices and warmed up to infuse it with delicious flavor. Common spices include cinnamon, cloves, star anise, nutmeg, and orange peel.
The wine is heated but not allowed to boil so the alcohol remains intact. Mulled wine has an intensely aromatic, irresistible scent. It’s sometimes served with a shot of brandy stirred in.
About 7% of Americans surveyed said mulled wine was their top choice for a Christmas drink. It’s especially popular at holiday markets and festivals. The spicy, aromatic flavor is perfect for warming up after being out in the cold.
Other Notable Christmas Drinks
While hot chocolate, apple cider, and eggnog dominate the field, other festive holiday drinks are worth mentioning:
Hot Buttered Rum
This sweet wintertime classic is made by mixing rum with butter, brown sugar, spices, and hot water or cider. The indulgent, creamy drink warms you from the inside out. About 4% of people in the Nielsen survey chose hot buttered rum as their favorite Christmas beverage.
Irish Coffee
Irish coffee combines hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with whipped cream. It’s a perfect after-dinner treat to warm up and lend a festive flair.
Peppermint Mocha
Peppermint mocha is a seasonal take on the classic mocha latte. Chocolate and peppermint are a perfect flavor combination reminiscent of candy canes.
Hot Toddies
A hot toddy is made with liquor, lemon, honey, and spices mixed with hot water or tea. Whiskey and rum are popular bases for this comforting winter cocktail.
The Winner: Hot Chocolate
While eggnog, mulled wine, and apple cider certainly have their loyal fans, hot chocolate edges them out as the most beloved Christmas drink. Here’s a recap of why hot chocolate takes the crown:
- Over 50% of Americans surveyed named it their favorite holiday drink
- Its sweet chocolate flavor screams Christmas
- Warming and comforting on cold winter nights
- Customizable with endless mix-ins and toppings
- Beloved by both kids and adults
- Evokes feelings of nostalgia and childhood memories
So when it’s time to get into the holiday spirit, cozy up with a steaming mug of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows, candy canes, and a dash of peppermint or cinnamon. It’s sure to warm your heart and taste buds with chocolatey goodness.
No matter your personal favorite, there’s no shortage of festive Christmas drinks to get you into a cheerful, celebratory mood. This holiday season, gather with friends and family to indulge in these delicious yuletide beverages and make merry!