As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm and comforting cocktail to brighten up your winter evenings. This season, we’ve gathered 18 deliciously spiced recipes that will transport you to a cozy winter wonderland. From classic hot toddies to inventive twists on old favorites, these cocktails are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling merry and bright.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the flavors of the season, with recipes that feature everything from cinnamon and nutmeg to gingerbread and peppermint. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory sipper, we’ve got you covered with our collection of irresistible winter cocktails.
Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Warm up on a chilly day with this soothing and flavorful hot toddy recipe that combines the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and honey. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup hot water
– Lemon slice or wedge (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
2. Remove from heat and add honey. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add hot water to the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Pour into mugs and serve immediately. Garnish with a lemon slice or wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Peppermint White Russian
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of white Russian with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for warm weather or a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 oz peppermint extract syrup (see below)
– Ice
– Crushed candy canes or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Peppermint Extract Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup peppermint extract
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Add 1/4 oz of peppermint extract syrup.
4. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Enjoy your Peppermint White Russian!
Gingerbread Martini
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and spicy Gingerbread Martini. With its rich, warm flavors, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces ginger-infused vodka
– 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Crushed candy canes or chopped crystallized ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and add the cinnamon.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes or chopped crystallized ginger.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cranberry Mulled Wine
As the winter chill sets in, a warm and spicy cup of mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the richness of red wine for a deliciously festive drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Combine the red wine, cranberries, orange slices, cloves, and cinnamon stick in a large pot.
2. Add the brown sugar and water to the pot and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the cranberries have popped.
5. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or glasses and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Chai Hot Buttered Rum
Warm up with a rich and comforting Vanilla Chai Hot Buttered Rum, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Dark Rum
– 1 cup Vanilla Chai Tea (brewed strong)
– 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
– 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp Salt
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a strong cup of Vanilla Chai Tea according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the melted butter. Stir until combined.
4. Pour the brewed tea into a mug or heat-proof glass.
5. Add the dark rum to the tea, stirring gently to combine.
6. Pour the butter mixture into the mug, allowing it to float on top of the drink.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (brewing time + melting butter)
Enjoy your comforting Vanilla Chai Hot Buttered Rum!
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
Elevate your Old Fashioned game with this rich and velvety twist that combines the warmth of bourbon, the sweetness of maple syrup, and a hint of spice. Perfect for the fall season or anytime you want to cozy up with a sophisticated cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz orange bitters
– 1/4 oz Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and orange bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with large ice cubes.
4. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top (optional).
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 2-3 minutes to stir and serve.
Toasted Marshmallow Eggnog
Elevate your holiday gathering with this rich and creamy Toasted Marshmallow Eggnog, perfect for sipping on a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup toasted marshmallows (see notes)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine eggnog, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and well combined.
2. Remove from heat and stir in toasted marshmallows until they’re fully incorporated.
3. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or jug to remove any remaining marshmallow chunks.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold dessert. Prepare in under 15 minutes.
Pomegranate Gin Fizz
Add a touch of elegance to your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Gin Fizz. A perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of soda water
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail, not a cooked dish!
Cinnamon Roll Hot Chocolate Cocktail
This sweet and spicy drink combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the warmth of cinnamon rolls, perfect for a chilly evening or cozy gathering. Let the aroma of cinnamon and sugar transport you to a winter wonderland.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 2 oz Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso or make a strong cup of coffee.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the white chocolate liqueur over low heat until melted and smooth.
3. Add the Baileys Irish Cream, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the saucepan. Whisk until well combined.
4. Pour the hot chocolate mixture into a mug with the espresso or coffee.
5. Stir well and garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoked Cherry Bourbon Sour
Elevate your bourbon sour game with the rich flavors of smoked cherries and a hint of smokiness. This unique cocktail is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz smoked cherry puree (see note)
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Cherry garnish, for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and smoked cherry puree to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Note: To make smoked cherry puree, pit 1 cup of cherries and smoke them over low heat (around 200°F) for 30 minutes to an hour. Then, blend the smoked cherries with 1/2 cup of simple syrup until smooth.
Caramel Pear Moscow Mule
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy twist on the classic Moscow Mule. The combination of caramel-infused pear puree, ginger beer, and vodka creates a refreshing and unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons caramel syrup
– 1 cup ginger beer
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka (preferably a neutral-tasting variety)
– Lime juice (optional)
– Ice
– Lime wedges and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the chopped pear with the caramel syrup until smooth.
2. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
3. Add 1/2 ounce of vodka and top with ginger beer.
4. Pour in the pear puree to fill the glass about 3/4 full.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Squeeze a sliver of lime juice, if desired, and garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is served chilled and ready to enjoy in under 5 minutes.
Orange Clove Hot Whiskey
This Orange Clove Hot Whiskey recipe is a perfect blend of flavors to cozy up on a chilly evening. Aromatic spices and citrusy goodness come together to create a delightful drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into small pieces
– 4-6 whole cloves
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine whiskey, orange juice, and broken cinnamon stick.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat until the whiskey is warm and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the whole cloves to the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Strain the liquid into a mug or heatproof glass. If desired, add brown sugar to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 7-10 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Sangria
Warm up with a glass of Spiced Cranberry Sangria, perfect for the holiday season! This recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of spice to create a festive drink that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (chardonnay or sauvignon blanc work well)
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– Sliced oranges and fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the chopped cranberries, cinnamon stick, and cloves to the pitcher.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with sliced oranges and fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: 0 hours (simply chill and serve)
Dark Chocolate Espresso Martini
This indulgent cocktail combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate and espresso for a sophisticated and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces dark chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva)
– 1 ounce Kahlúa
– 1 ounce vodka
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– Chocolate shavings or grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the dark chocolate liqueur, Kahlúa, and vodka.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Sprinkle the instant coffee powder on top of the cocktail to resemble espresso crema.
6. Garnish with chocolate shavings or grated nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This is a drink-only recipe.
Fig and Honey Bourbon Smash
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and tangy cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon with the lusciousness of figs and honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2-3 fresh fig slices
– Ice
– Club soda
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice.
2. Add the fig slices to the shaker and muddle gently to release their natural sweetness.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and an additional fig slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Chestnut Praline White Russian
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this unique twist on the classic White Russian cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chestnut praline syrup (see note)
– Ice
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Shake until chilled and well-combined.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of chestnut praline syrup over the top of the drink.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None – this cocktail is ready to serve immediately!
Note: Chestnut praline syrup can be made by cooking down roasted chestnuts with sugar and water until a thick, caramel-like consistency is reached. Alternatively, you can use store-bought praline syrup or substitute with a similar flavor profile.
Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma
A refreshing twist on the classic Paloma cocktail, this recipe combines the brightness of grapefruit with the earthy flavor of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce grapefruit juice
– 1/2 ounce lime juice
– 1/2 ounce agave syrup
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Add 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary to the shaker and muddle gently to release its oils and flavor.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Blackberry Sage Winter Margarita
As the temperatures drop, warm up with this unique twist on the classic margarita. This Blackberry Sage Winter Margarita combines the sweetness of blackberries with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for sipping by the fireplace.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 1/4 cup blackberry puree
– 1/4 oz sage-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Fresh sage leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, blackberry puree, and sage-infused simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain into prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a fresh sage leaf.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Warm up this winter with these 18 irresistibly spiced cocktail recipes. From Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy to Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma, there’s something for every taste bud. Indulge in sweet treats like Vanilla Chai Hot Buttered Rum and Cinnamon Roll Hot Chocolate Cocktail, or get cozy with Spiced Cranberry Sangria and Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, nutty, or boozy, these recipes will keep you warm and toasty all season long.
