Cozy nights are just around the corner, and what better way to warm up than with a spicy hot cocktail? As the temperatures drop, our desire for comforting drinks that pack a punch only grows stronger. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a bold kick, we’ve got you covered with 18 Spicy Hot Cocktail Recipes to get you through those chilly winter nights.
From classic wintertime favorites like spiced apple cider and hot buttered rum, to innovative twists like smoky chipotle mezcal hot chocolate and spiked Mexican hot chocolate with cayenne, our recipes will keep you warm and toasty all season long. So grab your favorite mug, put on your coziest PJs, and get ready to spice up your winter nights with these deliciously bold concoctions.
Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy
As the seasons change, there’s nothing like a soothing cup of hot toddy to ease into the cold weather. This Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and warming spices.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup bourbon or whiskey (optional)
• 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
• 6-8 whole cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Lemon slice or wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, bourbon or whiskey (if using), cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cider is hot but not boiling.
3. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
5. Strain into mugs or cups.
6. Garnish with a lemon slice or wedge.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fiery Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Cocktail
Elevate your winter beverage game with this spicy and sweet treat. This Fiery Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Cocktail combines the warmth of gingerbread with a kick of heat from cayenne pepper, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark chocolate liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup (or to taste)
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
– Whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat.
2. Add the dark chocolate liqueur and whisk until smooth.
3. Add the gingerbread syrup, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until well combined.
4. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Mezcal Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this bold and rich recipe that combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers, the spiciness of mezcal, and the deep flavors of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 ounce mezcal (or substitute with tequila or bourbon)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and anise until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add the chipotle peppers and mezcal to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness or spiciness as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Vanilla Bourbon Hot Toddy
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a soothing hot toddy to comfort and warm your spirits. This cinnamon vanilla bourbon hot toddy combines the sweetness of vanilla with the warmth of bourbon and the spice of cinnamon, making it the perfect winter warmer.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cinnamon stick, crushed or 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the bourbon, crushed cinnamon stick (or ground cinnamon), and vanilla extract.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is hot and fragrant.
5. Strain the toddy into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spiced Rum Butterbeer Hot Cocktail
Experience the wizarding world’s iconic beverage in a new way with this Spiced Rum Butterbeer Hot Cocktail, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. Rich and creamy butterbeer flavors meet the warmth of spiced rum and spices, transporting you to a magical realm.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1/2 oz butterscotch schnapps
– 4 oz hot buttered rum mix (or homemade equivalent)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– Whipped cream and sprinkle of cinnamon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the hot buttered rum mix over low heat.
2. Add the dark rum, butterscotch schnapps, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the mixture.
3. Stir until well combined and warm throughout (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Pour into mugs or glasses and top with whipped cream.
5. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Irish Coffee
Elevate your coffee game with this unique and invigorating Peppermint Mocha Irish Coffee recipe. Perfect for the holiday season, this drink combines the warmth of whiskey, the richness of chocolate, and the coolness of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– Heavy cream, whipped to desired consistency
– Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a warmed glass mug, combine espresso, cocoa powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and peppermint extract.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add Irish whiskey and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with whipped heavy cream and garnish with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Hot Buttered Rum with Maple Syrup
Elevate the traditional hot buttered rum recipe by adding a touch of maple syrup sweetness. This cozy drink is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you need a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of dark rum
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the maple syrup and whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the milk, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the rum into a mug or heat-proof glass.
5. Gradually pour the butter mixture over the rum, stirring to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Chai Tea Hot Whiskey Sour
Combine the warm spices of chai tea with the tanginess of whiskey sour for a unique and delicious twist on a classic cocktail. This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tart flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz chai tea-infused simple syrup (see below for recipe)
– 1 dash of cinnamon powder
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Chai Tea-Infused Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea or chai spice blend
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then add tea or spice blend. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain and store in the refrigerator.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and chai tea-infused simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon powder on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate with Cayenne
Elevate your winter evening with this bold and spicy twist on traditional hot chocolate. This rich and creamy drink combines the warm, comforting flavors of Mexico with a kick of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 ounces tequila (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the chocolate chips and whisk until melted and smooth.
3. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and anise. Whisk until dissolved.
4. Add the cayenne pepper and whisk to combine.
5. If desired, add the tequila and stir to combine.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramelized Pineapple Hot Rum Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this unique and delicious Caramelized Pineapple Hot Rum Punch, perfect for warm winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 shot of dark rum (1.5 oz)
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup hot water
– 1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine pineapple chunks and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
3. Add dark rum to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, hot water, and caramelized pineapple mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Mulled Wine
Warm up with this festive Spiced Cranberry Mulled Wine, perfect for the holiday season. This recipe combines the flavors of cranberries, spices, and rich red wine to create a delightful drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then 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.
3. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the mulled wine into a serving pitcher or individual mugs. If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional citrus slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hot Pumpkin Spice White Russian
This seasonal take on the classic White Russian cocktail combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of heavy cream and vodka. Perfect for crisp autumn evenings, this drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1/2 oz pumpkin-flavored syrup (or 1-2 teaspoons pumpkin puree)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the vodka, pumpkin syrup (or puree), and heavy cream over low heat.
2. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg; whisk until well combined.
3. Pour into a warmed mug or glass.
4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoky Ancho Chile Hot Apple Cider
Elevate your fall gatherings with this unique hot apple cider recipe that combines the warmth of smoky ancho chilies with the sweetness of apples. This bold and spicy drink is sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 dried ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, water, sugar, and ancho chilies.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Strain the cider mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard solids.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange-Clove Hot Gin Toddy
This autumnal cocktail combines the spicy warmth of clove with the sweetness of orange, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. With its subtle blend of flavors and soothing properties, this hot gin toddy is sure to become your new go-to comfort drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz clove-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 6 oz hot water
– Sliced orange, for garnish
– Cloves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the hot water over low heat.
2. Add the gin, orange juice, honey syrup, and clove-infused simple syrup to the warmed water.
3. Stir until the honey has dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain into a preheated mug or cup.
6. Garnish with sliced orange and a few cloves.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spiced Pear and Brandy Hot Cocktail
Warm up with this inviting hot cocktail that combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of spices and a hint of brandy. Perfect for cold winter nights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz brandy
– 1/2 oz pear liqueur (such as Poire Williams)
– 1/2 oz apple cider
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Sliced pear for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
2. Add brandy and pear liqueur to the warmed liquid. Stir gently to combine.
3. Pour into a mug or heatproof glass. Garnish with sliced pear.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Toasted Coconut Hot Buttered Rum
Warm up with this unique twist on a classic hot buttered rum: Toasted Coconut Hot Buttered Rum combines the richness of coconut and spices with the comfort of a warm, buttery drink. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (see note)
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in rum and whisk until combined.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream, toasted coconut flakes, orange zest, and black pepper.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Note: Toasted coconut flakes can be made by baking shredded coconut at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cherry Vanilla Hot Bourbon Flip
Elevate your winter nights with this decadent Cherry Vanilla Hot Bourbon Flip, a twist on the classic hot buttered rum. Rich bourbon, sweet cherry, and creamy vanilla come together in a warm, comforting drink perfect for snuggling up by the fireplace.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz cherry liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar:water)
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, pitted and chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the bourbon over low heat.
2. Add the cherry liqueur, heavy cream, simple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bourbon.
3. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped maraschino cherries and salt.
5. Pour into a mug or glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cardamom Honey Hot Scotch Toddy
As the weather cools down, warm up with this unique and aromatic hot toddy recipe that combines the spices of cardamom with the sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Scotch whisky
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 cup boiling water
– Lemon slice or cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mug, combine the Scotch whisky and ground cardamom.
2. Add the honey and stir until it dissolves.
3. Pour in the boiling water to fill the mug.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice or cinnamon stick, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
This Cardamom Honey Hot Scotch Toddy is a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet honey, sure to soothe your senses on a chilly day.
Summary
Cozy up with these 18 spicy hot cocktail recipes perfect for a chilly night. From classic hot toddies to creative twists on traditional drinks, there’s something for everyone in this list. Try a Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy, Fiery Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Cocktail, or Smoky Chipotle Mezcal Hot Chocolate. Or, indulge in Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate with Cayenne or Chai Tea Hot Whiskey Sour. Whatever your taste, these spicy hot cocktails will keep you warm and toasty all season long.
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