As the temperature drops, keep yourself fortified at home or on the town with these warming winter cocktails.
As the temperatures drop and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a cosy cocktail to elevate your winter evenings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these five easy-to-make cocktails will not only warm you up but also impress your guests.
READ: Here’s Why You Should Be Ordering a Manhattan This Winter
Here’s a selection that combines classic flavours with a seasonal twist.
Hot Toddy
A timeless winter warmer, the Hot Toddy is perfect for those chilly nights.
Ingredients
– 1 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch)
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Hot water
– Cinnamon stick (optional)
– Lemon slice (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a heatproof glass, combine the whiskey, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Fill the glass with hot water and stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of lemon.
Mulled Wine
This aromatic drink fills your home with the scent of spices and is a festive favourite.
Ingredients
– 1 bottle of red wine
– 1 orange (sliced)
– 1/4 cup brandy
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 5 whole cloves
– 2 star anise
Instructions
1. In a large pot, combine all ingredients and heat over low heat.
2. Allow to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain and serve warm in mugs, garnished with an orange slice.
Spiked Hot Chocolate
Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent drink that’s perfect for a cosy night in.
Ingredients
– 1 cup milk
– 1 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
– 1 oz peppermint schnapps or Irish cream
– Whipped cream (for topping)
– Chocolate shavings or crushed candy canes (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming.
2. Add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the schnapps or Irish cream.
4. Pour into a mug, top with whipped cream, and garnish as desired.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
A festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this cocktail adds a seasonal touch with cranberry.
Ingredients
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– Ginger beer
– Fresh cranberries and lime wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a copper mug, combine vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
2. Fill the mug with ice and top with ginger beer.
3. Stir gently and garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime wedge.
Maple Bourbon Sour
This cocktail combines the rich flavours of maple syrup and bourbon for a delightful winter sip.
Ingredients
– 2 oz bourbon
– 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– Lemon twist (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine bourbon, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
2. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist.
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