As the temperature drops and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm fire with a cozy cocktail in hand. To help you make this season merry and bright, we’ve rounded up our favorite 20 winter cocktail recipes that are sure to keep you warm and toasty on even the chilliest of nights.
From classic hot buttered rum and mulled wine, to more modern twists like spiced apple cider bourbon cocktails and peppermint mochas, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated sipper to serve at your holiday party or just a warm and comforting drink to enjoy on a cold winter evening, these recipes have got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a tour of the best winter cocktails, complete with step-by-step instructions and gorgeous photography. So grab your favorite mug, put your feet up by the fire, and let’s get started!
Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Warm up with this autumn-inspired cocktail that combines the spicy warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the crisp, fruity flavors of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 4 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup (see below)
– 1/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– Dash of ground nutmeg, for garnish
Cinnamon Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
2. Add cinnamon sticks to the syrup and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes.
3. Strain the syrup and discard the cinnamon sticks.
4. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, apple cider, cinnamon syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
5. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until chilled.
6. Strain into a glass and garnish with a dash of ground nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including steeping time)
Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon
Elevate your winter nights with this comforting and indulgent drink, perfect for cozying up by the fireplace.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup hot water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the cinnamon and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the rum and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the hot water, stirring constantly to avoid boiling over.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness with brown sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peppermint White Russian
Combine the refreshing flavors of peppermint and creamy vodka in this unique cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces white Russian vodka (or any clear vodka)
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce cream
– Ice
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white Russian vodka, peppermint schnapps, and cream to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 2 minutes
– Serving time: Immediate
Cranberry Mulled Wine
Warm up with this festive twist on traditional mulled wine, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 2 cups water
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cranberries, water, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the cranberries have popped.
3. Strain the wine into individual cups or a serving pitcher to remove the solids.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Martini
A unique and refreshing twist on traditional martinis, this Gingerbread Martini combines the warmth of gingerbread spices with the crispness of a cold drink. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to add some festive flair to your cocktail hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce ginger liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Dash of ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, ginger liqueur, heavy cream, simple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Shake until chilled and well combined.
4. Strain into a martini glass.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a candy cane, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking recipe.
Maple Old Fashioned
Elevate your classic Old Fashioned cocktail with a hint of maple syrup’s rich, velvety flavor. This sweet and sophisticated twist is perfect for those looking to spice up their whiskey-drinking routine.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1/2 oz maple syrup
• 1/2 oz Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon or rye whiskey, maple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
3. Stir the mixture for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink (if using) and discard.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under a minute.
Enjoy your Maple Old Fashioned, a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Martini
Get cozy with this sweet and creamy martini that combines the flavors of toasted marshmallows, rich hot chocolate, and velvety vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 marshmallow, toasted and crumbled (see note)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Hot chocolate syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
3. Add the vodka, white chocolate liqueur, Baileys Irish Cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
4. Pour 1/2 cup of the mixture into a martini glass.
5. Top with hot chocolate syrup, if desired.
6. Garnish with the toasted marshmallow crumble.
Cooking Time: None
Pomegranate Gin Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Gin Fizz, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a fruity twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz pomegranate syrup
– 3 oz club soda
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Lime wheel and ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lime juice, and pomegranate syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required, just shake and serve!
Caramelized Pear Prosecco Punch
Caramelized Pear Prosecco Punch Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and bubbly drink, featuring caramelized pears and crisp Prosecco.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 bottle (750ml) Prosecco
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine sliced pears and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears are caramelized and tender (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Remove the pears from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a large pitcher, combine Prosecco, pineapple juice, and lemon-lime soda.
4. Add the caramelized pear slices to the pitcher and stir gently.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve the punch over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and chill!)
Chai Tea Hot Toddy
Beat the chill with this soothing and spicy hot toddy recipe, featuring the comforting flavors of chai tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed chai tea (black tea, spices, and milk)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon bourbon or whiskey (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong chai tea according to package instructions.
2. Add the honey, cinnamon, and ginger to the tea while it’s still hot. Stir until dissolved.
3. If desired, add the bourbon or whiskey and stir gently.
4. Pour into a mug and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoky Maple Bourbon Sour
Elevate your cocktail game with this complex yet refreshing drink that combines the smokiness of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup and a tangy squeeze of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
– 1/2 oz smoked simple syrup (see note)
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and smoked simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Note: To make smoked simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add 1-2 tablespoons liquid smoke. Let cool before using.
Eggnog with Spiced Rum
Warm up with a rich and creamy Eggnog infused with the warmth of Spiced Rum.
Eggnog with Spiced Rum Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ounces Spiced Rum (such as Captain Morgan)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
3. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the eggnog thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the Spiced Rum and nutmeg.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
8. Whip heavy cream and sprinkle with nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Orange Whiskey Smash
A refreshing twist on the classic whiskey smash, this recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cranberries with a muddler or the back of a spoon until they’re well crushed.
2. Add the whiskey, orange juice, honey syrup, and cinnamon to the shaker. Fill with ice.
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. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a dish that requires cooking.
Enjoy your Cranberry Orange Whiskey Smash!
Vanilla Bean Irish Coffee
Warm up with this creamy twist on the classic Irish coffee, infused with the sweetness of vanilla and the richness of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1/2 cup)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Pour the coffee into a warmed glass mug or Irish coffee cup.
4. Add the melted butter mixture to the coffee, stirring gently.
5. Top with whipped cream (whip heavy whipping cream with sugar and cinnamon until stiff peaks form).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Margarita
Spiced Cranberry Margarita Recipe
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic margarita, featuring warm spices and tart cranberries.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz triple sec
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 cup cranberry juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt, for rimming glass
• Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Add cranberry juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the shaker.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe
Blackberry Rosemary Gin Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique blend of blackberries, rosemary, and gin.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup blackberry puree
– 1 sprig of rosemary, for garnish
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Muddle the blackberry puree into the mixture.
4. Add the sprig of rosemary to the shaker and muddle gently.
5. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
6. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass filled with ice.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel and additional rosemary sprig, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a refreshing cocktail that’s ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Hot Buttered Rum
Warm up with this rich and comforting Brown Sugar Cinnamon Hot Buttered Rum! Made with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of rum, this drink is perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the brown sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Add the cinnamon and whisk to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. In a mug, combine 1/2 oz of dark rum with the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture.
7. Stir well to combine and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Martini
This refreshing cocktail combines the classic flavors of peppermint and mocha, perfect for a festive holiday treat or any time you want to feel merry and bright. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be sipping on this delightful martini in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine white chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and Kahlúa.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Top with heavy cream and sprinkle with cocoa powder.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy.
Winter Spiced Sangria
Winter Spiced Sangria Recipe
A perfect blend of spices and fruit, this Winter Spiced Sangria is a delightful twist on the classic Spanish drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cups mixed berries (cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, sliced orange, lemon, and mixed berries.
2. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently.
5. Serve the Winter Spiced Sangria chilled, garnished with additional citrus slices and berries if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
Warm up with this autumnal twist on the classic hot toddy, featuring caramel apple flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 apple, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons caramel syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon or whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon slice
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the apple slices, caramel syrup, bourbon, and honey.
2. Add the lemon slice and cinnamon stick to the mug.
3. Pour in the boiling water, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, then remove the lemon and cinnamon.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional apple slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and spicy on a chilly fall day!
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 20 delicious and warming cocktail recipes. From Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail to Peppermint White Russian, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classic wintertime flavors like cinnamon, gingerbread, and peppermint, or try something new like Cranberry Mulled Wine or Smoky Maple Bourbon Sour. These comforting drinks are perfect for chilly nights spent snuggled up by the fire or with friends at a holiday party. So grab your favorite mug and get ready to warm up with these winter wonderland cocktails!