The holidays and TikTok food trends go hand-in-hand, and this year’s viral sensation is as festive as it gets: snow globe cocktails. These creative drinks transform glassware into miniature winter scenes, with cranberries and rosemary frozen in place like a holiday centerpiece. Once set, sparkling beverages or liquor are poured over the icy “globe,” creating an enchanting sip both stunning to look at and simple to make. They’re bound to impress your guests, plus you can easily customize them (mocktails, included!) and make them ahead of time in under an hour. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a quiet night in, snow globe cocktails are a unique way to toast the season—here’s how to do it.
What are snow globe cocktails?
Snow globe cocktails are exactly what they sound like—drinks designed to resemble tiny snow globes. So, it’s no surprise presentation matters just as much as flavor. The TikTok recipe, which first went viral in 2022, has amassed more than three million views with the hashtag #snowglobecocktail. What makes it unique? Using freezer-safe glasses, you freeze cranberries and a sprig of rosemary upright in water to create the illusion of a decorated tree inside an icy dome. And don’t worry, you won’t taste any bitterness. Once frozen, the solid “snow globe” acts as the foundation for a bubbly or boozy pour, such as prosecco or sparkling water. The result is a drink that brings the magic of the holidays into your glass.
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These cocktails can be tailored to any flavor profile, but popular choices include cranberry, spiced apple or classic gin and tonic with a festive twist.
Tips for perfect snow globe cocktails
Creating the perfect snow globe effect isn’t as tricky as it might seem. Even if you’re not a mixologist, following these easy tips can set you up for success.
Choose the right glassware
A good presentation means picking a good container to serve your cocktails in. Opt for sturdy, freezer-safe glasses that are wide enough to hold your “tree” elements upright without tipping. Highball or stemless wine glasses work well. Avoid opaque or dark-colored glassware that might hide your winter wonderland.
Arrange with care
Position your cranberries and rosemary sprig carefully before adding water. Place the rosemary upright in the center of the glass and use the cranberries to help hold it in place. If you need a little reinforcement, tie some cooking twine around the top of the sprig, then tape both ends to the side of the glass. This ensures your “tree” doesn’t float away during freezing.
Freeze thoroughly
Give your glasses enough time to freeze solid—at least 45 minutes. This ensures the globe won’t melt too quickly once the liquid is added. Pro tip: use cold water, not warm, to fill the bottom of your glass.
Get creative with liquids
Once frozen, top the globe with your drink of choice. The “snow” effect works best with transparent or pale liquids. Sparkling beverages like prosecco or club soda keep the focus on the visual, while vodka or gin adds a kick for cocktail lovers. You want For a non-alcoholic version, try sparkling cider or lemon-lime soda.
Serve with style
Serve immediately after pouring for the best presentation. If you have a larger crowd, consider setting out a garnish tray so guests can customize their snow globe cocktail creations with edible glitter, sugar rims, sweeteners or other frozen fruits. Remember to buy food-grade, non-toxic glitter or shimmer powder designed specifically for drinks. Pro tip: a little goes a long way, so start with a pinch and adjust to your desired sparkle level.
Viral snow globe cocktails recipe
This recipe from the The Modern Nonna provides the perfect base for you to get creative. The North Pole’s the limit, from a cranberry mule to a wintery old-fashioned. Serve these with a holiday charcuterie board and you’re good to go!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen cranberries (or fruit of choice), a small handful in each glass
- 4 sprigs rosemary, cut the top
- Water, cold
- Sparkling water or alcohol of choice
- Garnishes (edible glitter, frozen fruit, sweeteners, sugar), optional
Directions:
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 glasses
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Add small handfuls of frozen cranberries to a freezer-safe glass.
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Take a sprig of rosemary, turn it upside down and cut the bottom so it’s even. Spread out the bottom leaves so it stays in place.
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Place the rosemary in the middle of the glass and add in the water. Alternatively, you can add the water first and then place the rosemary, making sure it stays upright. Repeat with the other glasses.
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Place the glasses on a small baking sheet and freeze for 45 minutes (or until the water is frozen).
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Remove from the freezer and serve immediately with your favorite alcohol or sparkling water and garnishes.
Make-ahead note
Snow globe cocktails are best served fresh to maintain their sparkle, but you can pre-mix the base ingredients and chill them for more than 45 minutes until ready to serve. Add your liquids and garnishes just before presenting to guests.
