As the temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall, there's nothing quite like a cozy night in with a warm drink in hand.
Whether you're curled up by the fire or hosting a winter gathering, a cold weather cocktail is the perfect way to warm up and add some cheer to the season.
But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect cold weather cocktail recipe.
Should you go for something sweet and creamy, like a hot chocolate spiked with Baileys? Or maybe something bold and spicy, like a mulled wine with cloves and cinnamon?
One thing is for sure – a good cold weather cocktail should be comforting, warming, and delicious. It should evoke feelings of coziness and nostalgia, like sipping on a mug of hot cocoa after a long day of playing in the snow.
And of course, it should be easy to make, with ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best cold weather cocktail recipes out there, from classic favorites to creative twists on old classics. Whether you're a fan of whiskey, rum, or brandy, there's a recipe here for you.
So grab your favorite mug, put on your coziest sweater, and get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious cold weather cocktails around.
1. Maple Hot Toddy With Bourbon
The Maple Hot Toddy With Bourbon is a perfect winter warmer that will soothe and comfort you on a cold day. This cocktail is a delightful blend of bourbon, fresh orange juice, and maple syrup, with black walnut bitters adding a warm spice that balances the sweetness.
The absence of honey and lemon, which are typically associated with medicinal drinks, makes this cocktail a unique winter drink that stands on its own. The Maple Hot Toddy With Bourbon is a perfect combination of classic hot toddy and Old Fashioned cocktail, making it a must-try for those who love both. This cocktail is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a cozy and delicious drink on a chilly winter day.
2. Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum is a classic cold weather cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a warm and cozy drink that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night. Made with butter, sugar, and a blend of spices, this cocktail is silky smooth and sweet.
The addition of rum gives it a nice kick, making it the perfect pick-me-up after a long day. This cocktail is especially popular during the holiday season and is a great way to warm up after a day of skiing or snowshoeing. If you're looking for a comforting and delicious cold weather cocktail, Hot Buttered Rum is definitely worth a try.
3. Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a classic cold weather cocktail made with whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water. It's a simple and versatile drink that can be customized with different types of whiskey and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
The sweetness of honey and tanginess of lemon create a perfect balance of flavors that will warm you up from the inside out. Give it a try and see why it's one of the best cold weather cocktails out there.
4. Gin Hot Toddy
The Gin Hot Toddy is a perfect cold-weather cocktail that is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening. This cocktail is a twist on the classic hot toddy, with the addition of gin, orange, and cinnamon. The botanicals in the gin are enhanced by the orange and cinnamon, making for a flavorful and aromatic drink.
A spoonful of honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps soothe a sore throat. This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fire or enjoying with friends on a cozy night in. If you're looking for a comforting and delicious cocktail to warm you up this winter, the Gin Hot Toddy is definitely worth a try.
5. Mulled Wine
Mulled Wine is a perfect cold-weather cocktail that will warm you up from the inside out. This spiced wine is made with traditional mulling spices like cloves, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and served warm. It's like a fall sangria that's warm and cozy, perfect for relaxing by a warm fireplace or firepit on a chilly night.
Mulled wine usually contains fruit, like raisins, dried apples, or orange rind, and is garnished with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. The best reds for mulled wine are dry, full-bodied, and a little fruity, such as merlot, cabernet sauvignon, malbec, or syrah. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to cozy up on a cold night with a delicious and comforting drink.
6. Grapefruit Gin Cocktail
The Grapefruit Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and balanced drink that is perfect for cold weather. This cocktail combines the tartness of fresh grapefruit juice with the herbaceous notes of rosemary and the sweetness of honey simple syrup. The addition of gin gives it a boozy kick, making it a perfect drink for a cozy night in.
The recipe recommends using good quality gin and tonic water, but you can also use soda if you prefer. Overall, the Grapefruit Gin Cocktail is a must-try for gin lovers looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for fall and winter.
7. Orange Amaretto White Russian Cocktail
The Orange Amaretto White Russian Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic White Russian. This cocktail is a perfect blend of coffee, almond liqueur, and fresh orange that creates a balanced, boozy, and rich drink. The orange peels add a fragrant aroma that elevates the flavors of the coffee and almond liqueur.
The addition of cream gives it a velvety texture and creates a beautiful layering effect. This cocktail is perfect for a cozy winter night in, and it's sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to warm you up this winter, the Orange Amaretto White Russian Cocktail is a must-try.
8. Spanish Coffee
If you're looking for a warm and bittersweet coffee cocktail, try the Spanish Coffee. It's an American take on the traditional Spanish Carajillo and combines freshly brewed coffee, coffee liqueur, and lightly whipped cream.
The caramelized-sugared rim made with overproof rum and triple sec adds a bit of spectacle to the drink. It's a dessert drink that is not overly sweet, with the bitterness of the coffee balancing out the sweetness.
9. Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a perfect cocktail for coffee lovers who want a little kick in their drink. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and bitter, and the foam on top adds a classic touch to the drink. The three coffee beans floating on top of the cocktail represent health, wealth, and happiness, making it a perfect drink to enjoy during the cold weather.
While the name suggests using espresso, you can also make this cocktail with chilled coffee or cold brew. The choice of coffee liqueur is up to you, and both Kahlua and Tia Maria work well. Overall, the Espresso Martini is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion.
10. Hot Apple Cider
Hot Apple Cider is a classic cold-weather cocktail that is perfect for fall and winter. It is a warm and comforting drink that is made with apple cider, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and other spices. The drink can be spiked with brandy or other alcohol to give it a boozy kick.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be served to both adults and kids. It is perfect for holidays or for a cozy night in. The citrus and spices give the drink a warm and inviting flavor that is sure to please. If you are looking for a comforting and delicious cold-weather cocktail, Hot Apple Cider is definitely worth a try.
11. Ginger Mulled Wine
If you're looking for a cozy and inviting drink to warm you up during the colder months, look no further than the Ginger Mulled Wine. This semi-homemade cocktail features a blend of red wine and apple cider, along with a pre-made mulling spice packet and fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
The aroma of the warm mulling spices will fill your kitchen and create a cozy atmosphere for entertaining guests or enjoying a night in. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of ginger flavor in their drinks and is sure to be a hit at any fall or winter gathering.
