Tipsy Elf

The first time I mixed a Tipsy Elf Cocktail, I remember how the red color stood out in the glass and caught the light. The mix of bourbon and citrus lifted in the air as I stirred it, and the drink felt right for a quiet winter night. I made it during a small break while getting ready for a holiday gathering, and the steady flavor helped me slow down for a moment.

What I enjoy most is how the ingredients work together without feeling heavy. Bourbon brings warmth, Campari adds a soft bite, and sweet vermouth smooths the edges. Everything blends in a steady way, and the drink stays balanced from the first sip to the last. It feels familiar if you enjoy classic whiskey cocktails but still fits the season well. I like how simple it is to mix, even on days when you want something easy.

This recipe fits quiet evenings, small gatherings, or moments when you want a drink that feels thoughtful without extra work. The color adds a festive touch, and the flavor stays calm and smooth. A Tipsy Elf Cocktail brings a steady warmth to winter nights in a clean, relaxed way.

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Why You’ll Love This

The Tipsy Elf Cocktail brings warmth and brightness into one glass. It’s bold, smooth, and fits the holiday season without feeling overly sweet.

• Bourbon gives the drink a strong base
• Campari adds a clean, bitter citrus tone
• Sweet vermouth softens the edges
• The color fits festive Christmas cocktails
• It works well for winter mixed drinks
• The method stays simple for easy Christmas cocktails

All of these pieces come together to create a drink that feels steady and enjoyable.

Ingredients

This Tipsy Elf Cocktail uses classic Christmas cocktail ingredients that blend well. The mix stays balanced, with each part playing a clear role.

You’ll need

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 oz Campari
• orange peel or slice, for garnish

Depth and warmth come from the bourbon, making it ideal for holiday whiskey drinks. Providing a smooth, slightly sweet layer, sweet vermouth helps balance the Campari. For a strong citrus bite and vibrant red color typical of holiday cocktails, Campari delivers. Everything ties together with the clean aroma of orange peel.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Many brands complement this recipe, and small adjustments can subtly alter the flavor while maintaining a winter feel.

• Bulleit Bourbon adds spice and fits warming holiday cocktails
• Woodford Reserve creates a smoother finish
• Maker’s Mark gives a softer sweetness that works well with vermouth
• Carpano Antica sweet vermouth adds richness for seasonal whiskey cocktails
• Campari is classic, but Aperol can be used for a lighter drink
• Add a dash of orange bitters if you want more citrus

Choosing from these options allows you to tailor the drink to your taste.

Equipment and Glassware

You only need a mixing glass and strainer for the Tipsy Elf Cocktail. Serve in a rocks glass to show off the color, or use a coupe if you prefer it up.

• Mixing Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Rocks Glass

Helpful at-home tips

• Chill your glass first for a cleaner finish
• Stir long enough to keep the drink smooth
• Use a large ice cube to slow dilution
• Keep your vermouth fresh by storing it in the fridge
• Choose quality bourbon for a stronger flavor
• Twist the orange peel gently to release oils

Practicing these small habits will make your drink look polished and taste steady.

How to Make It

Quickly mixing, the Tipsy Elf Cocktail stays balanced when stirred. Blending the ingredients with a gentle stir prevents unwanted air or foam from forming.

1. Add bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari to a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir for 20 to 30 seconds until cold.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube or into a coupe glass
4. Twist an orange peel over the top.
5. Drop the peel in or rest it on the rim.

Adjusting the vermouth-to-Campari ratio will easily modify the bitterness or sweetness.

Pro Tips

Following a few thoughtful steps enhances the cleanest flavor of your Tipsy Elf Cocktail.

• Use fresh orange peel for a bright aroma
• Stir instead of shaking to keep the drink smooth
• Add more vermouth for a softer flavor
• Add more Campari for a stronger citrus bite
• Keep vermouth refrigerated after opening
• Use quality ice to prevent cloudiness
• Taste before adjusting sweetness
• Use a chilled coupe if serving without ice

Adjust individual ingredients until the drink matches your preferences.

Variations

Several variations of the Tipsy Elf Cocktail can maintain its winter feel. Bold ideas introduce new angles to the drink.

• Add a splash of cranberry juice for a softer edge
• Use rye instead of bourbon for a sharper finish
• Add a drop of vanilla syrup for warmth
• Replace Campari with Aperol for a lighter drink
• Add a tiny dash of cinnamon syrup for a festive twist

With each variation, you stay within the holiday whiskey-drink category but gain options.

When to Serve and Pairings

Winter holiday cocktails and small gatherings suit this drink perfectly. It also works well for Christmas party drinks when you want something bold but simple.

Try it with

• Dark chocolate
• Salted nuts
• Aged cheeses
• Fruit tarts
• Spiced cookies

Heavier winter foods and cozy snacks are well complemented by its warm flavor.

Storage and Serving Notes

Best served fresh, the Tipsy Elf Cocktail can also be batched for gatherings. In a sealed bottle, combine bourbon, vermouth, and Campari, then chill. For each serving, stir with ice to keep the texture smooth. To maintain flavor, store leftovers in the fridge, especially the vermouth.

FAQs

Winter bourbon cocktails like this one often prompt questions from people.

Can I make it sweeter?
Yes. Add more vermouth or a tiny splash of simple syrup.

Can I make it less bitter?
Reduce the Campari and increase the bourbon slightly.

Can I batch this drink?
Yes. Mix everything except the ice and stir each serving when ready.

Can I use flavored bourbon?
A light vanilla bourbon works well.

Can I make it without orange peel?
The drink still tastes good, but the aroma helps balance it.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy the Tipsy Elf Cocktail, here are other winter drinks that bring warm flavors and steady sipping.

• Spiced Cranberry Paloma for a refreshing citrus twist
• Mistletoe Manhattan for a smooth, classic whiskey drink
• White Christmas Sangria for a light holiday option
• Holly Jolly Margarita for a bright citrus sip
• Frosty Flurry for a colorful winter drink