16 Big-Batch Cocktails So You Can Mix Once, Then Actually Enjoy Your Party

It's the most wonderful time of the year—so bring on the comfort & joy, we say. In The Art of Chill Holidays, we'll show you how we keep celebrations low-key, with festive decor tricks, clever time-saving tips, and scrumptious spreads of snacks (always snacks!).

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During this busy-busy time of year, I'm open to any and all time-saving tips. Packing a few days' worth of lunches in advance? Check. Freezing logs of cookie dough ahead of time, so I can just slice and bake when the time comes? Double check. And when it comes to party-planning, any efforts at efficiency are especially welcome. Once the guests start milling in, I aim to be in full-on host mode, shmoozing and making guests feel welcome—and not wondering if I have enough ice to go around.

That's where big-batch cocktails come in. Don't get me wrong: I love a single, well-crafted drink; but I also love spending actual face time with loved ones. You can, simultaneously, enjoy a thoughtful cocktail while making yourself present and available at your next shindig. This holiday season, do yourself a favor and mix up some larger format drinks and bases well ahead of the first guest's arrival.

A few helpful tips before you get started:

• Don't forget the mixers and soft beverages: Make sure there are refreshing options for everyone, whether they are partaking your boozy delights or not.

• Use what you do have: No Bundt for the ice mold? No problem. A round cake pan or even a large, freezer-safe food storage container will do in a pinch.

• Stay chill: We also like putting cocktails and cocktail bases in large flip-top bottles or jars. That way, you can have them sitting on ice so they stay cool without any dilution. Take, for example, the Negroni Sbagliato Punch, which you can store in bottles or half-bottles in advance. Guests can pour it themselves and choose to top off further with fresh Prosecco or seltzer if they'd like.

And if you have friends pinging you about what they can bring: Back to that ice. Always bags of ice.

What is your favorite big-batch cocktail for a crowd? Let us know below!