As the holiday season approaches, classic cocktails take the stage, bringing nostalgia and cheer to every gathering. The Snowball Cocktail is a beloved British holiday drink that dates back decades, known for its bright, creamy flavor and iconic pale yellow color. Combining the rich, custardy notes of Advocaat with the fizzy sparkle of lemonade, this cocktail is light, refreshing, and full of holiday cheer.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, steps, and variations to create the perfect Snowball Cocktail. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or relaxing by the fireplace, this cocktail is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Advocaat – A traditional Dutch liqueur with a custard-like flavor and texture.
- 4 ounces lemonade – Use sparkling lemonade for a bubbly, refreshing finish.
- 1/2 ounce lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice balances the sweetness and adds a hint of tartness.
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon or lime slice – Adds a citrusy touch and a pop of color.
- Maraschino cherry – For a classic, retro garnish that enhances the festive look.
- Sprinkle of grated nutmeg – Optional for a bit of warmth and holiday spice.
Preparation
The Snowball Cocktail is incredibly simple to make and requires minimal equipment, making it perfect for easy holiday entertaining.
Step 1: Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice. Large cubes work best to keep the drink cold without excessive dilution.
Step 2: Pour the Advocaat over the ice, allowing it to settle at the bottom of the glass.
Step 3: Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the glass, which will brighten the flavors and cut through the creaminess.
Step 4: Top off the drink with sparkling lemonade, pouring it slowly to avoid excessive foaming. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime on the rim and a maraschino cherry for a classic look. Optionally, sprinkle a bit of grated nutmeg on top for a festive touch.
Serve immediately and enjoy the smooth, creamy, and refreshing taste of this holiday classic!
Variations on Snowball Cocktail
The Snowball Cocktail can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few fun variations:
- Coconut Snowball: Add a splash of coconut milk or coconut cream for a tropical twist that enhances the creamy texture and brings a touch of the tropics to your holiday drink.
- Spiced Snowball: Sprinkle cinnamon or ginger on top for added warmth and seasonal spice, or mix in a dash of cinnamon whiskey to create a unique, festive flavor.
- Gin Snowball: Add a shot of gin for a stronger, more complex cocktail. This variation pairs well with a botanical gin that complements the flavors of Advocaat.
- Cranberry Snowball: Replace the lemonade with cranberry soda for a vibrant color and a tart, refreshing flavor that balances the creaminess of the Advocaat.
Cooking Note
- Use Quality Advocaat: The Advocaat is the star of this cocktail, so using a quality brand will make a difference. Traditional Dutch Advocaat has a thick, custard-like consistency and a rich, creamy flavor that defines this drink.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice will give the best flavor and enhance the drink’s overall brightness, making it more refreshing.
Serving Suggestions
The Snowball Cocktail is a wonderful drink for holiday parties, family gatherings, and cozy nights. Here are a few ideas for serving it up in style:
- Holiday Party Staple: Serve these at holiday gatherings for a nostalgic yet refreshing cocktail that’s easy to sip. Prepare a batch in advance and add lemonade just before serving to keep the fizz.
- Pair with Desserts: This cocktail pairs well with festive desserts like sugar cookies, gingerbread, or a slice of fruitcake.
- Festive Presentation: Serve in a highball or vintage glassware for a retro look. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a holiday-ready finish.
Tips for the Perfect Snowball Cocktail
- Chill Your Glassware: For an extra-refreshing cocktail, chill the glass beforehand to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If your lemonade is very sweet, consider adding a bit more lime juice for balance. This cocktail is meant to be creamy and refreshing, not overly sugary.
- Don’t Skip the Sparkling Lemonade: Regular lemonade won’t give the same bubbly, fizzy texture. Look for a sparkling version to achieve the classic Snowball effect.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 12g
FAQs
Q: Can I make a non-alcoholic Snowball Cocktail?
A: Yes, you can use an eggnog-flavored or custard-flavored non-alcoholic drink as a substitute for Advocaat. Combine it with sparkling lemonade and lime juice for a similar texture and flavor.
Q: What is Advocaat, and can I substitute it?
A: Advocaat is a Dutch liqueur made from egg yolks, sugar, and brandy, with a custard-like flavor and texture. If you don’t have Advocaat, a rich eggnog (with or without alcohol) is a good substitute.
Q: Can I batch-make the Snowball Cocktail?
A: Yes! Combine the Advocaat and lime juice in a pitcher and refrigerate. Add the sparkling lemonade to individual servings to keep the cocktail fizzy.
Q: What kind of lemonade should I use?
A: Use a sparkling lemonade or lemon-lime soda for the best results. This adds a refreshing fizz that’s essential to the traditional Snowball Cocktail.
Conclusion
The Snowball Cocktail is a nostalgic holiday drink that combines the richness of Advocaat with the refreshing sparkle of lemonade. With its smooth, creamy texture and bright citrus notes, this cocktail is a perfect treat for holiday gatherings, family get-togethers, or simply to unwind by the fire. Its light and refreshing flavor make it an ideal alternative to heavier holiday drinks, and its retro appeal brings a touch of vintage charm to any occasion.
Gather your ingredients, mix up a batch, and enjoy this festive holiday classic! The Snowball Cocktail is sure to become a seasonal favorite that brings warmth, cheer, and a dash of nostalgia to your winter celebrations.
Cheers to a season filled with comfort and joy!
Print
Snowball Cocktail
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Advocaat – A traditional Dutch liqueur with a custard-like flavor and texture.
- 4 ounces lemonade – Use sparkling lemonade for a bubbly, refreshing finish.
- 1/2 ounce lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice balances the sweetness and adds a hint of tartness.
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon or lime slice – Adds a citrusy touch and a pop of color.
- Maraschino cherry – For a classic, retro garnish that enhances the festive look.
- Sprinkle of grated nutmeg – Optional for a bit of warmth and holiday spice.
Instructions
Preparation
The Snowball Cocktail is incredibly simple to make and requires minimal equipment, making it perfect for easy holiday entertaining.
Step 1: Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice. Large cubes work best to keep the drink cold without excessive dilution.
Step 2: Pour the Advocaat over the ice, allowing it to settle at the bottom of the glass.
Step 3: Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the glass, which will brighten the flavors and cut through the creaminess.
Step 4: Top off the drink with sparkling lemonade, pouring it slowly to avoid excessive foaming. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime on the rim and a maraschino cherry for a classic look. Optionally, sprinkle a bit of grated nutmeg on top for a festive touch.
Serve immediately and enjoy the smooth, creamy, and refreshing taste of this holiday classic!
Notes
- Use Quality Advocaat: The Advocaat is the star of this cocktail, so using a quality brand will make a difference. Traditional Dutch Advocaat has a thick, custard-like consistency and a rich, creamy flavor that defines this drink.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice will give the best flavor and enhance the drink’s overall brightness, making it more refreshing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 1g