Snow Globe Cocktails Are Taking Over TikTok

Aesthetic (and delicious) winter tipples are all over TikTok this year. We’ve had the mistletoe mimosa, and now snow globe cocktails are trending again, with the hashtag #snowglobecocktail racking up over 3.1 million views over the past month. It’s the perfect drink for your festive get-togethers this season – but how to master the trend? We’ve enlisted Patrick Pistolesi, a master mixologist at NIO Cocktails, to share his top tips.

What Is A Snow Globe Cocktail?

Snow globe cocktails are made by freezing water in a glass until solid, then adding a sparkling drink on top – designed to resemble snowy ice topped with sparkly sky. Often recipes add seasonal garnishes like cranberries and rosemary for an extra Christmassy look (and taste). The trend first took off in 2022, and every winter since the cocktail has soared in popularity again.

@mama_mila_ These snow globe cocktails are so cute and so easy ☃️ fill the base of a glass with water + tie a sprig of rosemary to the top. Freeze. Then cut the string + top with your favourite clear cocktail or mocktail! So simple + so impressive 🎄 will you try this one? #christmas #christmastok #christmastiktok #christmasdiy ♬ Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee

How To Make The Viral Snow Globe Cocktail

Patrick Pistolesi shares his top tips below.

Use clear ice for a glassy look

‘There are two ways to make clear ice for snow globe cocktails—you can either freeze the water right in the glass with the ingredients or use an extra-large ice cube mould. To get crystal-clear ice, try using filtered or distilled water and boil it twice before freezing it. This helps to get rid of air bubbles and any impurities, creating a perfectly clear ice cube.’ He also stresses the importance of using a freezer-safe glass to prevent breakage.

Choose your decorative fruits and spices

‘Add a pop of colour and a hint of sweetness with fruits that are synonymous with the festive season, like cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or citrus slices. Edible flowers such as pansies or hibiscus can add a festive touch, too.

‘You can put the fruits directly into the glass before pouring in the water and freezing, or use the extra-large ice cube mould. Just fill the mould with fruits and water to make individual snow globe ice cubes. Ice sphere moulds are also great for snow globe cocktails because they showcase the frozen ingredients in a beautiful round shape.’

Add herbs and botanicals

‘Before you freeze the fruit and water, add a sprig of rosemary, thyme, or mint to add to the festive look. To keep the herb in place inside the glass, tie a piece of string around the herb, leaving the other end of the string hanging outside of the freezer-safe glass. You can even use tape to hold the string in place if needed. These herbs release oils that pair nicely with gin and vodka, which adds to both the look and taste.’

Freeze your snow globe

‘Once you’ve created your snow globe in a freezer-safe glass or extra-large ice mould, simply pop it in the freezer overnight. As soon as it is frozen, you will see that the bottom third of the glass is filled with frozen garnishes. The great thing about larger ice cubes, like the snow globe trend, is that they melt slowly, which helps to preserve the drink’s flavour. ‘

Pair with the perfect cocktail

‘Botanical flavours and herb-infused ice go well together with gin-based cocktails, complimenting the bitter kick of the gin to cleanse your palate. Spiced and fruity ice also works well in classic cocktails such as a Negroni or Margarita.’