It’s another holly-jolly cocktail moment!
This festive cranberry-pomegranate julep is on the stronger side, perfect for anyone who wants something bolder than a mimosa or margarita. It’s a cocktail with attitude — a little extra for the holidays.
Although mint juleps are traditionally associated with spring and the Kentucky Derby, they work beautifully in winter too. Bourbon brings a warming depth that pairs wonderfully with tart cranberry and sweet pomegranate. Even served over crushed ice, this combination feels cozy and celebratory.
Seriously — it’s so good.
If you love crushed ice, you’ll adore these: crunchy, refreshing, and like an adult slushie. The texture makes each sip feel festive and fun.
They’re incredibly easy to make for a holiday gathering. Consider setting up a little drink station with jugs of pomegranate and cranberry juices, a bottle of bourbon, a bowl of fresh mint, and a bucket of crushed ice. Guests can build their own juleps — the ice will need occasional topping up, but otherwise it’s low-effort and festive.
Because cocktails are, technically, constructed — and that’s part of the fun.
This julep is more suited to Christmas dinner or an evening party than to Christmas morning — unless you’re the type to reach for bourbon at sunrise. Either way, it’s a sophisticated drink that pairs well with a roast or festive hors d’oeuvres.
And visually? It’s jewel-toned and stunning — the kind of cocktail that makes a table feel instantly more elegant.
Let’s raise a glass and cheers to the holidays.
Pomegranate Cranberry Juleps
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review »
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 ounces bourbon
- 1 1/2 ounces mint simple syrup
- 1 ounce cranberry juice
- 1 ounce pomegranate juice
- crushed ice
- fresh mint leaves
mint simple syrup
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 bunch of mint leaves
Instructions
-
Combine bourbon, mint simple syrup, cranberry juice and pomegranate juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for about 30 seconds. Strain or pour the mixture over a glass filled with crushed ice and garnish with extra mint. If desired, add fresh cranberries or pomegranate arils for a festive touch.
mint simple syrup
-
To make mint simple syrup: combine sugar, water and a bunch of mint leaves in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for about a minute, then remove from heat and let cool completely. Strain out the mint leaves before using. This can be made ahead and chilled in the refrigerator.
Did you make this recipe?
Be sure to follow @howsweeteats on Instagram and tag #howsweeteats. You can also share a photo on the Facebook page.
I appreciate you so much!
Doesn’t that just look like a glass of jewels?