Whether you’re vegan or are catering a party for vegan guests, planning your drinks menu isn’t usually too much of a stretch. The vast majority of cocktails blend spirits with something sweet/bitter/fruity, so it’s hard to go wrong. At Christmas, though, with the profusion of spirit-based ‘cream’ drinks like Baileys and egg-based tipples like advocaat, you can go off-piste by accident.
Licor 43 Horchata is a top-notch vegan alternative to Baileys Irish Cream, made with tiger nut cream instead of dairy. We use this in our dreamy White Christmas cocktail and can vouch for its taste and quality.
Use your favourite nut- or plant-based milk when a recipe specifies milk or cream but bear in mind that some – like coconut – may alter the taste profile of your cocktail. If a recipe calls for whipped cream, simply separate the fatty part of a tin of coconut cream and chill it before whipping to soft peaks. For advocaat-based cocktails, you can make a surprisingly authentic vegan version with Bird’s custard!
Here are a few suggestions for festive vegan cocktails.
Vegan Spiced White Russian
Usually made with vodka, Kahlúa, and cream served over rocks, the White Russian is a Frappuccino-style twist on the original Black Russian. Tickle this up for the festive season by adding a dash of winter spiced syrup and pour almond or cashew cream over the top for a silken finish.
No-Egg Nog
Tip a tin of condensed coconut cream into a pan together with a batch of custard made with Bird’s powder and 600mls of plant milk – oat is best – and a grating of nutmeg. Whisk over medium heat till thick and golden before allowing to cool to room temperature. Add 250mls of brandy, stir and store in a bottle in the fridge. You can use this to make a Snowball, too, by adding lemonade.
White Christmas
This makes a gloriously indulgent Christmas treat. Combine a vegan cream liqueur with vodka, amaretto and a splash each of vanilla syrup and sugar syrup before serving over ice and garnishing with dried cranberries. Edmunds White Christmas uses vegan Licor 43 Horchata, Luxardo amaretto and Sapling vodka for a velvety finish with subtle vanilla, almond, spice and citrus notes to give it a distinctively festive feel.
Happy Christmas!
