When the temperature starts to dip and the days grow shorter, few things are as comforting as a warm, well-made winter cocktail. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just curling up by the fire, the right drink can add that perfect seasonal touch. From classic favourites to modern twists, here are five of the best winter cocktails to help you embrace the cold in style.
1. Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is the quintessential winter warmer. This drink is simple yet incredibly soothing, making it a go-to for cozy nights at home or a winter gathering with friends. The blend of hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon not only warms you up but also helps to soothe colds and sore throats—an added bonus during flu season!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup hot water
- Optional: cinnamon stick or cloves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a mug, combine the whiskey, honey, and lemon juice.
- Pour in hot water, stirring until the honey dissolves.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves, and enjoy immediately.
The Hot Toddy is endlessly customizable. Some prefer a touch of ginger for added warmth, while others might add herbal tea or a splash of apple cider for extra flavour.
2. Mulled Wine
Few drinks say “winter” like mulled wine. This European classic fills your home with festive aromas while offering a rich, spiced flavour profile. Perfect for holiday parties, this cocktail can be made in large batches and kept warm throughout the evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4-5 cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- Optional: 1 oz brandy for an extra kick
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the wine, honey (or sugar), and spices.
- Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the sweetener dissolves. Avoid boiling, as this will burn off the alcohol.
- Once warmed through, reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Remove from heat, strain out the spices, and serve in mugs.
Mulled wine is a versatile drink, with different countries putting their own spin on it. Some recipes include fruit like cranberries or apples, while others might feature stronger spirits like rum or whiskey. No matter the variation, this is a true winter staple.
3. Irish Coffee
For a cocktail that doubles as a pick-me-up, you can’t go wrong with Irish Coffee. This simple blend of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream is perfect for cold mornings, afternoon breaks, or dessert after a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup freshly brewed coffee
- 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Heavy cream, slightly whipped
Instructions:
- Fill a warm glass or mug with the coffee and whiskey.
- Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves.
- Gently pour the whipped cream over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the drink.
- Sip the coffee through the cream for the perfect balance of bitter and sweet.
While traditional Irish Coffee sticks to the basics, you can also add flavours like vanilla, cinnamon, or even a dash of Baileys to make it more indulgent.
4. Spiked Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a winter must-have, but adding a little kick turns this childhood favourite into an adult delight. Whether you’re snuggling up by the fire or looking for an after-dinner treat, spiked hot chocolate never disappoints.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 oz dark rum or bourbon
- Optional: whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until steaming.
- Add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in your spirit of choice.
- Pour into a mug and garnish with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.
You can customize spiked hot chocolate in many ways, from using flavoured liqueurs like peppermint schnapps or amaretto to experimenting with different kinds of chocolate.
5. Eggnog
No list of winter cocktails is complete without Eggnog. This rich, creamy drink is synonymous with the holiday season and can be served either warm or cold. While it’s often sold pre-made in stores, homemade eggnog is a special treat that’s well worth the effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 egg yolks
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark rum, bourbon, or brandy
- Freshly grated nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and creamy.
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and cream and heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Slowly whisk the hot milk mixture into the eggs to temper them, then return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the alcohol of your choice.
- Chill or serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg.
Eggnog can be customized with different liquors or spices, and it can even be made dairy-free by substituting almond or coconut milk. Whether you like it light and frothy or rich and indulgent, eggnog is a winter classic.
Conclusion
Winter is the perfect season to indulge in cozy, warming cocktails that lift your spirits and fend off the cold. From the soothing warmth of a Hot Toddy to the festive richness of Eggnog, there’s a cocktail here for every taste and occasion. So, stock up on your favourite spirits, grab a cozy blanket, and toast to the season with one of these winter-perfect drinks!
Don’t fancy trying to make them by yourself? Don’t worry! Butler Direct offers Christmas options in their mobile cocktail classes, so contact us if you’d like to plan a Christmas themed cocktail class.
