As we finalize our menus for Christmas morning, New Year’s Day, or just a casual brunch at home, we aim to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. That’s why we’re turning to Maggie Hoffman and her book, Batch Cocktails: Make-Ahead Pitcher Drinks for Every Occasion, for big-batch cocktail recipes that are a breeze to make for a crowd. Whether your go-to is mimosas or a savory Bloody Mary, these clever variations will become fast favorites!
4 Big-Batch Brunch Cocktails for a Crowd
Improved Blood Orange Punch
No brunch is complete without a mimosa, and this unique twist on the classic originally comes from Jen Ackrill of Sky Waikiki in Honolulu, HI. From the tart orange-raspberry flavor to its vibrant color, this is a fun, fruity variation. Maggie recommends using a two-quart pitcher when preparing the punch, as the recipe makes about 12 servings. For the best flavor, she also suggests juicing the oranges within two hours of serving and using freezer-chilled vodka to keep your pitcher cold. To see the full recipe, click HERE.
Jägermeister Bloody Mary
Heads up, Bloody Mary fans! Courtesy of Patrick Gaggiano and Willy Shine of Jägermeister, Maggie describes this variation of the classic bloody as “a bold, earthy drink that’s fantastic alongside a hearty brunch.” Unlike your traditional Bloody Mary, this recipe calls for Jägermeister and Guinness. Plus, Maggie recommends rimming your glasses with Tajín, a Mexican chile-lime salt blend. You can also pour additional glasses of Guinness to add another elevated touch to your brunch spread! To see the full recipe, click HERE.
Ratterwick Punch
For a taste of warm weather and summertime, whip up a batch of this Ratterwick Punch, courtesy of Shannon Tebay of Death & Company in New York City. Offering a fun twist on the classic Aperol spritz, the cocktail includes pink grapefruit juice for a sweeter-than-usual taste alongside a bit of lemon juice, sparkling wine, and gin. Maggie also recommends that you taste the punch before serving, as you may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of lemon juice, depending on the sweetness of your sparkling wine. To see the full recipe, click HERE.
Sneaky Peat
Courtesy of Laura Newman, owner of Queen’s Park in Birmingham, AL, the Sneaky Peat is a boozy tea-infused cocktail calling for Scotch, oolong tea, and bitters, making a delicious concoction that’s equal parts tangy and fruity. Maggie recommends preparing your punch at least two hours (or up to two days) before your gathering, and if you’re particular about the peat level of your cocktail, be mindful of the type of Scotch you choose. If you typically opt for a neutral whiskey, Maggie suggests adding an ounce or two more of something smokier. To see the full Sneaky Peat recipe, click HERE.
Cheers!
All recipes have been reprinted with permission from Batch Cocktails: Make-Ahead Pitcher Drinks for Every Occasion by Maggie Hoffman, copyright © 2019. Published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House.
All photography by Kelly Puleio.
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