I am not a fancy cocktail drinker, nor do I regularly drink cocktails at home. During the holidays, though, I find myself wanting a cocktail while wrapping presents, baking cookies, or decorating. This tradition of holiday cocktails comes from my grandparents, who seemed to always have a cranberry brandy punch or spiked eggnog in hand when tackling holiday projects. This cocktail is not complicated, and if I want it to be more spirit forward, I’ll add an extra half ounce of tequila and brandy. I bounce between cranberry ginger ale and Cheerwine Holiday Punch, depending on which one I have at the moment –– either tastes great. It’s tart and sweet and has become a regular holiday drink at home. It’s easy to make, and helps me accomplish any holiday task a little quicker.  

Santa’s Little Helper Cocktail 
Serves 2

Ingredients
2 ounces tequila blanco
1 ounce brandy
1 lime, juice
Cranberry ginger ale or Cheerwine Holiday Punch
Sugar, for garnish
Fresh cranberries, for garnish
Lime wheel, for garnish 

Directions 

1. Rim two rocks glasses with sugar and fill with ice; set aside. 
2. In a shaker with ice, combine tequila, brandy, and lime juice. Cover with lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into prepared glasses. 
3. Top with ginger ale or Cheerwine and garnish with cranberries and lime wheel. 

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