As the weather cools down and the leaves start to change, there's nothing quite like a warm drink to soothe the soul. And when it comes to warm drinks, few things are as satisfying as a good bourbon cocktail.
Whether you're looking to warm up after a long day or you're entertaining guests, a warm bourbon cocktail is the perfect way to add a touch of sophistication to any occasion.
But with so many different bourbon cocktails out there, how do you know which ones are worth trying? After all, not all bourbon cocktails are created equal.
Some are too sweet, while others are too bitter. Some are too strong, while others are too weak. So how do you find the perfect balance?
That's where we come in. As a bartender, I've spent years perfecting the art of the warm bourbon cocktail. I've experimented with different recipes, tweaked ingredients, and tested countless variations to find the very best warm bourbon cocktails out there. And now, I'm excited to share my knowledge with you.
In this post, we'll explore some of the best warm bourbon cocktail recipes out there, from classic favorites to modern twists. So whether you're a seasoned bourbon drinker or a newcomer to the world of warm cocktails, there's something here for everyone. So sit back, relax, and let's explore the wonderful world of warm bourbon cocktails together.
1. Bourbon Hot Chocolate
Bourbon Hot Chocolate is a must-try winter cocktail that will warm you up on a cold night. This spiked homemade hot chocolate is made with real maple syrup, cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, milk, vanilla extract, and bourbon. The combination of flavors is incredibly rich and satisfying, making it the perfect comforting boozy cocktail for the chilly months.
You can even make it dairy-free and vegan by using almond milk or coconut milk. This cocktail is best served as a dessert after a nice meal or enjoyed on a cozy evening. If you're a fan of hot chocolate and bourbon, this cocktail is definitely worth trying.
2. Bourbon Hot Toddy
The Bourbon Hot Toddy is a classic cold-weather cocktail that is perfect for warming up on chilly evenings. Made with bourbon, honey, lemon, and fragrant spices, this cozy cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. The warmth of the bourbon and the sweetness of the honey make it a perfect nightcap to end the night.
The addition of fresh citrus and whole spices gives it a unique aroma and flavor that is sure to please. Whether you prefer rye whiskey, scotch, or Irish whiskey, this cocktail is a must-try for any whiskey lover. So, if you're looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to enjoy on a cold winter night, the Bourbon Hot Toddy is definitely worth a try.
3. Maple Hot Toddy With Bourbon
The Maple Hot Toddy with Bourbon is a warm and cozy cocktail that is perfect for cold winter days. This unique blend of a classic hot toddy and an Old Fashioned cocktail creates a warm and spicy flavor that is sure to please any bourbon lover.
The combination of bourbon, maple syrup, orange juice, and black walnut bitters gives it a unique taste that sets it apart from other hot toddy recipes. Overall, the Maple Hot Toddy with Bourbon is a must-try for anyone looking for a warm and delicious bourbon cocktail to enjoy during the winter months.
4. Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail
The Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail is a perfect winter drink that will warm you up in no time. This cocktail is a perfect blend of creamy and sweet eggnog with a hint of bourbon. It is a perfect drink for those who love the traditional winter drink, eggnog, and want to add a little twist to it.
The recipe calls for 1 quart of eggnog and 5 oz of bourbon, which makes it a perfect cocktail for a group of friends or family. This cocktail is perfect for those cold winter nights when you want to sit by the fire and enjoy a warm drink. The Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good winter cocktail.
5. Hot Buttered Bourbon
Hot Buttered Bourbon is a rich and warming winter cocktail that is perfect for those cold nights in. Made with brown sugar, spices, bourbon, and a generous amount of butter, this cocktail is not for the faint of heart.
While it may not be a traditional hot buttered drink, it is a much stronger and richer version that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you choose to top it off with whipped cream or enjoy it as is, this cocktail is sure to become a favorite during the colder months. So why not give it a try and see for yourself what all the fuss is about?
6. Pear Bourbon Cocktail
The Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect drink for a cozy night by the fire in the fall. This cocktail combines pear juice, bourbon, walnut bitters, and a dash of cinnamon. It has a bit of a twist on the classic old fashioned, making it a unique and delicious drink.
The subtle hint of maple from the bourbon aged in maple syrup barrels adds a bit of sweetness, making it a perfect warm cocktail for the colder months. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon and is looking for a new fall drink.
7. Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz
The Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz is a perfect warm cocktail for the cold nights ahead and upcoming Thanksgiving. The cocktail is made with homemade spiced maple syrup, warming bourbon, lemon, and orange, then topped off with bubbly champagne for that special November touch.
The key to this drink lies within the spiced maple syrup, which is a mix of sweet maple and warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. The cocktail is sweet, spicy, and so delicious, making it a perfect choice for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz is definitely a must-try cocktail for those who love warm, spicy flavors.
8. Honey Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail
The Honey Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is a delicious and cozy drink that celebrates the transition of seasons. It combines the fruity taste of apple cider, the warming effect of bourbon, and a sweet honey and cinnamon flavor.
Bourbon is the classic alcohol of choice for many cocktails, and this cocktail is versatile and can be adjusted to personal preference. The Honey Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious warm bourbon cocktail.
9. Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash Cocktail
The Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash Cocktail is a warm and cozy drink that's perfect for chilly nights by the fire. Made with fresh apple cider, bold bourbon, and a homemade cinnamon agave simple syrup, this cocktail is elevated with the addition of smoky cinnamon and thyme.
The secret to this cocktail's unique flavor is the smoked cinnamon stick, which adds a complex and elevated twist to the drink. This cocktail is easy to make at home and is a great way to enjoy the traditional fall flavors of apple cider with a boozy kick. If you're looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to enjoy this season, the Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
10. Pine Old Fashioned
The Pine Old Fashioned is a perfect winter cocktail for bourbon lovers. This twist on the classic Old Fashioned features a subtle pine flavor from the pine simple syrup, which pairs well with the sweet caramel notes of the Heritage Distilling's Elk Rider Bourbon.
The addition of Angostura bitters adds warm baking spices and herbal notes, making it a great sipping cocktail for cozy nights by the fireplace or as a holiday drink. Overall, the Pine Old Fashioned is a unique and flavorful cocktail that is sure to impress bourbon enthusiasts.
11. Maple Old Fashioned
The Maple Old Fashioned is a sweet, boozy, and orange-scented cocktail that bourbon lovers will want to sip all winter long. This cozy and warming cocktail is a perfect choice for those who love whiskey. The cocktail is made with maple syrup mixed with bourbon, which gives it a smooth and silky texture.
The warm notes of vanilla, caramel, maple, coffee, chocolate, dried fruit, and orange make it a perfect winter drink. The cocktail is dangerously simple and flavorful, making it a must-try for all whiskey enthusiasts. If you're looking for a cozy and warming cocktail to try this winter, the Maple Old Fashioned is definitely worth a shot.
12. Winter Spiced Old Fashioned
The Winter Spiced Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic recipe with a spiced simple syrup that includes ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. It's perfect for those who love bourbon and those who are looking for something new to try.
The cocktail is best enjoyed by the fireplace, listening to holiday music, and enjoying the company of friends. If you're looking for a warm bourbon cocktail to try this winter, the Winter Spiced Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
13. Bourbon Cider Cocktail
The Bourbon Cider Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who want to experience the Danish concept of hygge during the cold winter months. This smooth and ruby red spiced drink is a combination of apple cider, bourbon, and a ginger pomegranate syrup spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
It's sweetly spiced and totally cozy, making it a perfect drink for snuggling up with blankets and loved ones. The cocktail is a great way to warm up on a chilly evening and is sure to impress your guests. So, if you're looking for a drink that captures the essence of hygge, the Bourbon Cider Cocktail is a must-try.
14. Apple Cider Hot Toddy
The Apple Cider Hot Toddy is a delicious twist on the traditional hot toddy, made with apple cider and bourbon. It's perfect for cold winter nights and holiday gatherings.
The history of the hot toddy is fascinating, and this recipe is a great way to experience it. If you're looking for a warm bourbon cocktail that's easy to make and tastes great, the Apple Cider Hot Toddy is definitely worth a try.
15. Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a warm and cozy fall and winter cocktail that is perfect for Thanksgiving or any cold night. This cocktail is made with homemade spiced chai simple syrup, high-quality bourbon, winter citrus, a touch of vanilla, and fizzy sparkling water. The chai syrup is the heart of the cocktail, providing all the flavors of chai tea with hints of maple and vanilla.
The bourbon adds a warming and comforting touch to the cocktail, making it perfect for sipping by the fire or cuddled up with a good book. The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone who loves chai and bourbon, and it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
16. Orange Bourbon Smash
The Orange Bourbon Smash is a warming yet icy cocktail that combines the flavors of bourbon, bitters, and fresh mandarin. This cocktail is perfect for those who prefer herby, not-so-sweet, and strong and sour cocktails. The absence of added sugar in this recipe allows the muddled fresh mandarin to enhance the flavor of the drink.
This cocktail is a great option for those looking for a unique and refreshing twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, the Orange Bourbon Smash is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests with a delicious and sophisticated cocktail.
17. Warm Spiced Vanilla Cocktail
The Warm Spiced Vanilla Cocktail is a perfect winter warmer that will surely make you feel cozy and comfortable. With a blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, this cocktail has a deliciously spiced flavor that is reminiscent of the season. The Irish cream and bourbon give it a lush and warming taste that is sure to please.
The cinnamon-sugared rim adds a touch of sweetness and makes it a treat for the senses. The recipe is simple and easy to make, and it can be enjoyed with friends or alone on a chilly night. If you're looking for a cocktail that will warm you up and make you feel good, the Warm Spiced Vanilla Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
18. Bourbon Spiked Apple Cider
Looking for a warm and cozy cocktail to enjoy during the colder months? Look no further than the Bourbon Spiked Apple Cider. This delicious drink combines the sweetness of unfiltered apple juice with the warmth of mulling spices and the kick of bourbon whiskey.
The addition of orange juice adds a bright and refreshing twist to the classic fall flavors. Perfect for sipping by the fire or serving to a group, this cocktail is sure to become a seasonal favorite. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
19. Winter Warm-Up
If you're looking for a warm and cozy cocktail to enjoy during the winter months, the "Winter Warm-Up" is a must-try. Made with Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey and a medium- to full-bodied dark roasted coffee, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a strong and bold flavor.
The whipped cream, sprinkled with a dash of cinnamon, adds a creamy and sweet touch to the drink. The cinnamon stick used to stir the cocktail adds a subtle hint of cinnamon to the drink, making it the perfect winter warmer. So, if you're looking for a delicious and comforting cocktail to enjoy on a chilly evening, give the "Winter Warm-Up" a try.
20. Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail
The Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is a must-try for any bourbon lover looking for a stylish and deeply warming winter drink. This cocktail is loaded with chocolate and cherry flavors, making it pleasantly sweet and perfect for sipping by a cozy fire on a chilly winter's night.
The cocktail is made with bourbon, cherry brandy, and chocolate liqueur, and topped off with a delicate float of cream and grated chocolate, with a Maraschino cherry hiding in the bottom of each glass. This cocktail is an excellent choice for an adults-only dessert or a comforting nightcap. If you're looking for more winter cocktails to try, be sure to check out the other options in the article.
21. Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch
Looking for a festive and warming bourbon cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering? Look no further than the Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch. This cocktail takes a classic bourbon sour and adds a seasonal twist with homemade cranberry-orange syrup, fresh citrus, and sweet candied rosemary.
The cranberry syrup adds a beautiful red color and warmth to the drink, while the candied rosemary provides a pretty and delicious garnish. The recipe can be easily scaled up to serve a crowd, making it perfect for holiday entertaining. If you're a fan of bourbon drinks, this one is definitely worth trying.
22. Honey Bourbon and Pear Cider Cocktail
The Honey Bourbon and Pear Cider Cocktail is a perfect blend of winter flavors, featuring the sweetness of honey and the warmth of bourbon. The Barenjager Honey and Bourbon used in this cocktail is a premium spirit that combines traditional German honey liqueur with Kentucky Bourbon.
The addition of hard pear cider adds a light and effervescent touch to this cocktail, balancing out the sweetness of the honey and bourbon. The use of pine simple syrup and grapefruit also adds a unique and refreshing twist to the cocktail. If you're looking for a cozy and delicious winter cocktail, the Honey Bourbon and Pear Cider Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
23. Classic Hot Toddy
The Classic Hot Toddy is a simple and comforting cocktail made with bourbon whiskey, hot tea, lemon, honey, cloves, and cinnamon. It's perfect for a cold winter night and is believed to ease the symptoms of a cold.
The combination of whiskey and hot tea creates a smooth and aromatic flavor, while the honey and lemon provide a sweet and tangy taste. The addition of cloves and cinnamon adds a warm and spicy note, making it the perfect drink to enjoy by the fire.
24. Busted Pipe
Looking for a warming and comforting cocktail to sip on during the colder months? Look no further than the Busted Pipe Amaro Cocktail. This cocktail, developed during the Snowpocalypse of 2021, combines the flavors of amaro and bourbon for a sweet and bitter drink that's perfect for sipping.
With its warming sweetness and easy-to-sip strength, the Busted Pipe is a great twist on classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Paper Plane. Plus, it's easy to make and can be doubled or tripled for a crowd. If you're a fan of amaro or bourbon, this cocktail is definitely worth a try.
25. Ginger Gold Rush Cocktail
The Ginger Gold Rush Cocktail is a twist on the classic Gold Rush cocktail, made with bourbon, ginger liqueur, and fresh lemon juice. The spicy kick from the ginger liqueur makes it perfect for chilly fall evenings.
It's a simple and versatile drink that can be enjoyed in any setting, making it a must-try for bourbon lovers and those looking for a cozy fall drink.
26. Apple Cider Old Fashioned
The Apple Cider Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for the fall season. This warm bourbon cocktail is a twist on the classic old fashioned, with the addition of apple cider that gives it a sweet and tangy flavor. The caramel notes from the bourbon blend perfectly with the spices in the apple cider, making it a cozy and comforting drink.
This cocktail is perfect for pairing with roasted meat, especially beef, as the boldness of the bourbon complements the hearty cut of meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you can also serve it with apple shortcakes or apple spice cupcakes. The Apple Cider Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail for those who love the flavors of fall.
27. Haunted Graveyard Halloween Cocktail
Looking for a spooky and warming bourbon cocktail to impress your guests this fall? Look no further than the Haunted Graveyard Halloween Cocktail. This deliciously complex cocktail combines bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with the added theater of smoking rosemary for a truly impressive presentation.
Even without the smoking rosemary, this cocktail is sure to impress with its woodsy rosemary taste and warming flavors. Whether you're hosting a Halloween party or just looking for a cozy fall drink, the Haunted Graveyard Halloween Cocktail is a must-try.
28. Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail
The Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail is a delicious twist on the classic Moscow Mule, perfect for the winter holidays. This cocktail features smooth Bourbon, spicy ginger, refreshing orange, and warm spices, creating a perfect balance of flavors. What sets this cocktail apart is the addition of citrus and spice-infused simple syrup, giving it a holiday touch.
If you're a Bourbon lover, this cocktail deserves a spot on your list. The best part? It's versatile, easy to make, and refreshing. So, if you're looking for a warm Bourbon cocktail to impress your guests this holiday season, the Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
