Santa’s Tipple: Delicious Apple Brandy Christmas Cocktail
Sep 10, 2025
If Santa had any sense, he’d ask for this instead of cookies. Santa’s Tipple is a rich, cozy pecan liqueur cocktail built for holiday season revelry. Apple brandy, warm spice, and a whisper of pecan come together in a drink that feels like Christmas in a coupe.
Created by Kenny Watson for Toups Meatery, this recipe has been a crowd favorite for good reason. It is layered, aromatic, and downright joyful. Everything but the booze. Made in New Orleans.
Santa’s Tipple: Our Pecan Liqueur Cocktail Recipe
This recipe makes one cocktail and delivers serious holiday flavor with zero fuss.
Ingredients
Kenny Watson for Toups Meatery
- 2 oz Brandy
- 0.75 oz house made spiced apple juice
- 0.25 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz cinnamon demerara
- 0.25 oz Rivulet pecan liqueur
- 1 dash Saline
- 3 dashes El Guapo™ Holiday Pie Bitters
- 3 dashes El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters
- Fresh apple slice or mini candied apple, for garnish
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake hard until the mixture is chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe.
- Garnish with a fresh apple slice or a tiny candied apple.
The Aromatic Anchor of a Pecan Liqueur Cocktail
The magic here comes from the bitters pairing. Holiday Pie Bitters bring warm baking spice. Chicory Pecan Bitters deepen the roasted pecan notes from the liqueur and play beautifully with apple brandy. It is rich, aromatic, and surprisingly balanced. Bartenders swear by and grandmothers hoard.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this such a good Christmas cocktail?
It hits every holiday note without being heavy. Apple brandy, warm spice, and pecan create a cozy flavor profile that feels festive and welcoming.
Can I use another type of brandy?
Yes. Apple brandy fits the theme but a classic brandy or even bourbon will still make a delicious drink with a slightly different personality.
Where can I find pecan liqueur?
Rivulet is a great option and is usually available at well stocked liquor stores. If you cannot find it, another pecan liqueur will do. Avoid extracts. You want real flavor with no artificial anything.
