20 Cozy Winter Cocktail Recipes Delightful

Desserts and Baking

As the winter chill settles in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm, spiced cocktail to melt away the cold. Our roundup of 20 Cozy Winter Cocktail Recipes is your ticket to turning any evening into a festive occasion. From rich, chocolatey indulgences to spirited citrus sips, these drinks are sure to delight your senses and warm your soul. Let’s mix up some magic!

Spiced Hot Toddy

Spiced Hot Toddy

Kick off your evening with this Spiced Hot Toddy—**bold flavors**, **quick steps**, and **cozy vibes** in every sip.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water (filtered for best taste)
  • 2 tbsp honey (local preferred, adjust sweetness)
  • 1 oz bourbon (or whiskey, for depth)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (plus extra for garnish)
  • 3 whole cloves (lightly crushed for aroma)
  • 1 slice lemon (thin, seeds removed)
  • 1 star anise (optional, for extra spice)

Instructions

  1. **Heat** water in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 200°F—steamy but not boiling.
  2. **Stir** in honey until fully dissolved, about 1 minute. Tip: Warm honey blends easier.
  3. **Add** bourbon, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. Simmer on low for 5 minutes to infuse.
  4. **Strain** the mixture into a mug to remove spices, leaving a smooth base.
  5. **Float** the lemon slice on top and garnish with an extra cinnamon stick. Tip: Squeeze lemon for a tangy twist.

Velvety warmth meets spicy-sweet notes in this toddy. Serve with a **charred cinnamon stick** for a smoky aroma or **drizzle extra honey** for dessert-like indulgence.

Peppermint White Russian

Peppermint White Russian

Y’all, this Peppermint White Russian is the holiday cocktail you didn’t know you needed. **Bold flavors** and a creamy finish make it irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka (use a high-quality brand for smoother taste)
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa works great)
  • 1 oz peppermint schnapps (adjust to taste)
  • 1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • Ice cubes (fill the glass)
  • Crushed candy canes (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a rocks glass to the brim with ice cubes to chill the drink properly.
  2. Pour 2 oz of vodka over the ice for a strong base.
  3. Add 1 oz of coffee liqueur to introduce a rich, coffee flavor.
  4. Measure 1 oz of peppermint schnapps and pour it in; this adds the festive minty kick. Tip: Adjust the amount based on how minty you like it.
  5. Top with 1 oz of heavy cream, pouring slowly to create a beautiful layered effect. Tip: For a lighter version, half-and-half is a great substitute.
  6. Stir gently to combine the ingredients while maintaining some separation for visual appeal. Tip: Use a long spoon to reach the bottom without disturbing the layers too much.
  7. Garnish with crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch and extra minty aroma.

Whip this up for a creamy, minty twist on the classic White Russian. The peppermint adds a refreshing zing, perfect for sipping by the fire. Serve it in a clear glass to show off those gorgeous layers.

Gingerbread Martini

Gingerbread Martini

Pour yourself into the holiday spirit with this Gingerbread Martini—spiced, sweet, and irresistibly smooth. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, it’s a cocktail that packs a punch.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vanilla vodka (or plain vodka for a less sweet version)
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (adds depth, adjust to taste)
  • 1 oz gingerbread syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 oz heavy cream (for richness, can substitute with almond milk)
  • Ice cubes (for shaking, plenty to chill)
  • Cinnamon sugar rim (mix 1 tbsp sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon)
  • Whipped cream and cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional but festive)

Instructions

  1. Rim a martini glass with cinnamon sugar: Wet the rim with a lime wedge, then dip into the cinnamon sugar mix. Set aside.
  2. Fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes to ensure your drink gets properly chilled.
  3. Add 2 oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz gingerbread syrup, and 1/2 oz heavy cream to the shaker.
  4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
  5. Strain into the prepared martini glass, ensuring no ice chips sneak in.
  6. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick for that extra holiday flair.

Creamy, spiced, and with just the right kick, this Gingerbread Martini is like dessert in a glass. Serve it as the grand finale to your holiday dinner or as the star of your next cocktail hour.

Cranberry Mulled Wine

Cranberry Mulled Wine

Elevate your cozy nights with this Cranberry Mulled Wine—bold, fruity, and spiced to perfection. It’s the ultimate winter warmer that’ll have your guests begging for the recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (choose a full-bodied variety like Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 cup cranberry juice (100% juice for the best flavor)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup honey (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 1 orange, sliced (leave the peel on for extra zest)
  • 1 star anise (optional for a licorice hint)

Instructions

  1. Pour the red wine and cranberry juice into a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the fresh cranberries, honey, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and star anise to the pot.
  3. Heat the mixture until it just begins to simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Tip: Avoid boiling to preserve the alcohol content.
  4. Let the wine mull for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: The longer it simmers, the more infused the flavors become.
  5. After mulling, remove the pot from heat and strain the wine to remove the whole spices and fruit. Tip: Use a fine mesh strainer for a clearer drink.
  6. Serve warm in mugs, garnished with fresh cranberries and an orange slice.

Silky with a tangy cranberry punch, this mulled wine is a festive hug in a mug. Try serving it with a cinnamon sugar rim for an extra sweet touch.

Eggnog with Bourbon

Eggnog with Bourbon

Y’all, winter’s calling for a boozy hug in a glass. This Eggnog with Bourbon is your creamy, dreamy answer—spiked just right.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk (for richness, or sub half-and-half)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (whipped, for topping)
  • 4 large eggs (room temp blends smoother)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (freshly grated kicks it up)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (choose a smooth, mid-shelf bottle)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
  2. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to avoid curdling.
  3. Transfer mixture to a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Do not boil.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in nutmeg and vanilla. Let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
  5. Once cooled, whisk in bourbon. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to meld flavors.
  6. Before serving, whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Fold gently into the eggnog.
  7. Serve chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top. For an extra kick, add a cinnamon stick stirrer.

Get ready for a velvety sip that’s rich with bourbon warmth. Perfect for sipping by the fire or as a decadent dessert drink.

Apple Cider Hot Buttered Rum

Apple Cider Hot Buttered Rum

Apple cider hot buttered rum is the cozy hug you need this season. **Blend** warm spices, rich butter, and smooth rum for a drink that’s irresistibly comforting.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for easier mixing)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed, for depth)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (freshly grated for best flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp salt (balances sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup dark rum (spiced rum works too)
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. **Heat** apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it simmers, about 5 minutes. Do not boil.
  2. **Mix** softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a bowl until creamy. Tip: Use a hand mixer for a smoother blend.
  3. **Add** the butter mixture to the warm cider, whisking until fully dissolved and the drink is frothy, about 2 minutes.
  4. **Stir** in the rum and cook for another minute just to warm through. Tip: Overheating can evaporate the alcohol, so keep it low.
  5. **Pour** into mugs and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Tip: Serve with a cinnamon stick for stirring and extra aroma.

**Bold** flavors of spiced butter and rum melt into the sweet apple cider, creating a velvety drink that’s both rich and refreshing. Try serving it with a side of gingerbread cookies for dipping.

Vanilla Chai Hot Chocolate Cocktail

Vanilla Chai Hot Chocolate Cocktail

Transform your cozy night in with this Vanilla Chai Hot Chocolate Cocktail—rich, spiced, and irresistibly smooth.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups milk (whole for creaminess, or almond for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipped, for topping)
  • 2 tbsp vanilla chai tea powder (adjust for stronger flavor)
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (melted, for richness)
  • 1 oz vanilla vodka (optional, for an adult twist)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until steaming, about 3-5 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
  2. Whisk in vanilla chai tea powder and cinnamon until fully dissolved, about 1 minute.
  3. Remove from heat; stir in melted dark chocolate chips until smooth. Tip: For extra silkiness, strain the mixture through a fine mesh.
  4. If using, stir in vanilla vodka until combined.
  5. Pour into mugs; top with whipped heavy cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Tip: Use a kitchen torch for a lightly toasted cream topping.

Every sip delivers a velvety mix of spicy chai and deep chocolate, perfect for sipping by the fire or as a decadent dessert drink.

Pomegranate Champagne Punch

Pomegranate Champagne Punch

Sparkle up your next gathering with this effervescent Pomegranate Champagne Punch—bold, bubbly, and irresistibly Instagrammable.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pomegranate juice (chilled for best results)
  • 1 bottle (750ml) champagne or prosecco (also chilled)
  • 1/2 cup vodka (optional, for an extra kick)
  • 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 1 cup fresh pomegranate arils (for garnish)
  • Ice cubes (use large cubes to prevent quick dilution)

Instructions

  1. In a large punch bowl, combine the pomegranate juice and simple syrup. Stir well to mix.
  2. Gently pour in the champagne or prosecco to preserve the bubbles. Tip: Pour down the side of the bowl to minimize fizz loss.
  3. Add vodka if using, and stir once more for an even blend.
  4. Drop in a handful of ice cubes to keep the punch chilled without watering it down too quickly.
  5. Scatter pomegranate arils on top for a vibrant garnish that doubles as a tasty treat.

Oozing with festive vibes, this punch boasts a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a fizzy texture that dances on the palate. Serve in elegant glasses with a skewer of pomegranate arils for a chic touch.

Salted Caramel Irish Coffee

Salted Caramel Irish Coffee

Zesty and bold, this Salted Caramel Irish Coffee twists the classic with a sweet, salty kick. Perfect for chilly mornings or as a decadent nightcap.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee (strong, for best flavor)
  • 1 tbsp salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1.5 oz Irish whiskey (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, lightly whipped (soft peaks)
  • Pinch of sea salt (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brew 1 cup of strong coffee. Tip: Use a French press for a richer flavor.
  2. In a mug, stir together the hot coffee and 1 tbsp salted caramel sauce until fully dissolved.
  3. Add 1.5 oz Irish whiskey to the mug and stir gently. Tip: Warm the whiskey slightly for a smoother taste.
  4. Top with 1/2 cup of lightly whipped heavy cream, pouring over the back of a spoon to float it on top.
  5. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the cream for that perfect salty-sweet finish. Tip: Use flaky sea salt for texture and visual appeal.

Makes for a creamy, dreamy sip with the ideal balance of sweet, salty, and strong. Serve with a caramel drizzle on the rim for extra flair.

Winter Spice Old Fashioned

Winter Spice Old Fashioned

Whip up this Winter Spice Old Fashioned to cozy up your evenings with a twist on the classic. Bold flavors meet simplicity in this must-try cocktail.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon (go for a high-quality bottle for smoother taste)
  • 1/2 oz maple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 2 dashes aromatic bitters (orange or walnut bitters work too)
  • 1 orange peel (for garnish, plus a squeeze of juice)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish and subtle spice infusion)
  • Ice cubes (large cubes melt slower, keeping your drink chilled not diluted)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
  2. Add a large ice cube and stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled. Tip: Stirring, not shaking, preserves the clarity and texture of the drink.
  3. Express the orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it in. Tip: Warming the peel slightly between your fingers enhances the aroma.
  4. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
  5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a light squeeze of orange juice. Tip: Lightly toast the cinnamon stick for an extra aromatic punch.

Outstanding in its simplicity, this Winter Spice Old Fashioned delivers a warm, spicy kick with a smooth finish. Serve it with a side of dark chocolate to complement the maple’s sweetness.

Maple Bourbon Smash

Maple Bourbon Smash

Kick off your summer nights with this Maple Bourbon Smash—bold, sweet, and irresistibly smooth. Perfect for sipping under the stars or spicing up your backyard BBQ.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon (use your favorite brand)
  • 1 oz pure maple syrup (the darker, the richer the flavor)
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice (squeeze it fresh for the best taste)
  • 4-5 fresh mint leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup crushed ice (keep extra for serving)
  • Club soda (to top off, about 2 oz)

Instructions

  1. In a shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with maple syrup and lemon juice to release the mint’s aroma—don’t overdo it to avoid bitterness.
  2. Add bourbon and a handful of crushed ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture perfectly.
  3. Strain into a glass filled with fresh crushed ice, leaving room at the top.
  4. Top with a splash of club soda for a fizzy lift.
  5. Garnish with a mint sprig and a quick drizzle of maple syrup on top for that Instagram-worthy finish.

Velvety with a punch, this smash balances sweet maple against bourbon’s warmth, finished with a refreshing minty zing. Serve it in mason jars for a rustic touch or with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra flavor kick.

Fireside Whiskey Sour

Fireside Whiskey Sour

Let’s shake up your night with a Fireside Whiskey Sour—smooth, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet. Perfect for sipping under the stars or cozying up by the fire.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz whiskey (bourbon works best for that rich depth)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for no pulp)
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to sweeten)
  • 1 egg white (for that silky foam)
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters (adds a spicy complexity)
  • Ice cubes (for shaking, use large cubes to prevent quick dilution)

Instructions

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Secure the lid.
  2. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
  3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 10 seconds until well-chilled.
  4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass to serve up or over fresh ice.
  5. Gently dash bitters on top of the foam for a decorative finish.

Outstandingly smooth with a velvety texture, this cocktail balances bold whiskey with bright citrus. Serve with a cinnamon stick for a smoky stir or a dehydrated lemon wheel for a chic garnish.

Cinnamon Toast Cocktail

Cinnamon Toast Cocktail

Absolutely no morning is complete without this Cinnamon Toast Cocktail—shake up your routine with this boozy, cozy sip that tastes like dessert in a glass.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk (whole for creaminess, or almond for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon sugar (mix 1 part cinnamon to 4 parts sugar)
  • 1 oz vanilla vodka (or plain if you prefer less sweetness)
  • 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
  • 1/2 cup ice cubes (the more, the frostier)
  • Whipped cream for topping (go generous for that diner-style flair)

Instructions

  1. Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for 5 minutes—nobody likes a warm cocktail.
  2. Rim the chilled glass with cinnamon sugar by lightly wetting the rim with water and dipping it into the mixture.
  3. In a shaker, combine milk, vanilla vodka, butterscotch schnapps, and ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds—this ensures everything is perfectly mixed and chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into your prepared glass, leaving the ice behind for a smooth sip.
  5. Top with a lavish swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that iconic toast vibe.

Every sip of this cocktail is a creamy, spiced dream—serve it with a cinnamon stick stirrer for extra aroma and a touch of elegance.

Blackberry Bramble Hot Toddy

Blackberry Bramble Hot Toddy

Nothing beats the cozy vibes of a Blackberry Bramble Hot Toddy on a chilly evening. Bold flavors meet in this boozy, berry-packed sip that’s as easy to make as it is to love.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup blackberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp honey (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 oz bourbon (or whiskey of choice)
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced (about 1 tbsp)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Muddle blackberries and honey in a mug until berries are crushed and mixture is syrupy.
  2. Heat water to just below boiling (about 200°F) and pour into the mug, stirring to combine.
  3. Add bourbon and lemon juice, stirring gently to mix all ingredients.
  4. Let sit for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for an aromatic touch before serving.

Unleash the deep, fruity essence with every sip, where the tartness of blackberries dances with the warmth of bourbon. Serve it in a clear mug to showcase its vibrant hue, or pair with a sprig of thyme for an herbal twist.

Toasted Marshmallow Martini

Toasted Marshmallow Martini

Kick off your evening with this Toasted Marshmallow Martini—sweet, smoky, and irresistibly creamy. Perfect for sipping by the fire or spicing up your next girls’ night.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vanilla vodka (chilled for best results)
  • 1 oz marshmallow syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 oz half-and-half (sub with coconut milk for a dairy-free twist)
  • 1 large marshmallow (toasted, for garnish)
  • Ice cubes (enough to fill a shaker)

Instructions

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your martini perfectly.
  2. Pour 2 oz of vanilla vodka into the shaker for that smooth, sweet base.
  3. Add 1 oz of marshmallow syrup to infuse that iconic campfire flavor.
  4. Measure 1 oz of half-and-half and add it to the mix for creamy richness.
  5. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds—until the outside feels cold.
  6. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass for a sleek presentation.
  7. Toast a large marshmallow over a flame until golden brown, then skewer it on a cocktail pick for garnish.
  8. Float the toasted marshmallow on top of the drink for a smoky finish.

Makes for a velvety sip with a playful charred sugar top. Try rimming the glass with graham cracker crumbs for an extra s’mores vibe.

Orange Clove Hot Rum

Orange Clove Hot Rum

Zesty and warming, this Orange Clove Hot Rum is your go-to winter warmer. **Bold flavors** and **simple steps** make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dark rum (spiced rum works too)
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (strained, no pulp)
  • 1/4 cup honey (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 2 whole cloves (or a pinch of ground cloves)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Orange slices (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. **Combine** water, honey, cloves, and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. **Stir** constantly until honey dissolves completely, about 2 minutes.
  3. **Add** orange juice and bring to a gentle simmer, not a boil, for 3 minutes to infuse flavors.
  4. **Remove** from heat and stir in rum. Tip: Overheating alcohol can evaporate its potency.
  5. **Strain** into mugs to remove whole spices. Tip: Use a fine mesh strainer for a smoother drink.
  6. **Garnish** with an orange slice for a photogenic finish. Tip: A cinnamon stick stirrer adds extra aroma.

Perfectly balanced, this drink offers a **silky texture** with a **spicy-sweet kick**. Serve in clear mugs to showcase its vibrant color, or pair with a dark chocolate dessert for an indulgent twist.

Chestnut Praline Latte Cocktail

Chestnut Praline Latte Cocktail

Unlock the cozy vibes with this Chestnut Praline Latte Cocktail—boozy, creamy, and downright irresistible. Perfect for sipping by the fire or spicing up your holiday party.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream (chill for best results)
  • 2 tbsp chestnut praline syrup (or sub with hazelnut)
  • 1 oz bourbon (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup brewed espresso, cooled (or strong coffee)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Ice cubes (for serving)
  • Whipped cream and crushed pralines for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine heavy cream, chestnut praline syrup, bourbon, cooled espresso, and vanilla extract.
  2. Fill the shaker halfway with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice, leaving room at the top for garnish.
  4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed pralines for that extra festive touch.
  5. Serve immediately with a straw or spoon to mix the layers as you sip.

Get ready for a velvety smooth sip with a nutty sweetness that dances on your palate. Try rimming the glass with caramel sauce for an extra decadent twist.

Smoky Mezcal Hot Chocolate

Smoky Mezcal Hot Chocolate

Spice up your night with this Smoky Mezcal Hot Chocolate—bold, boozy, and irresistibly smooth.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (swap for coconut cream to veganize)
  • 3 oz dark chocolate, chopped (70% cacao for depth)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder (Dutch-processed for extra richness)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 1 oz mezcal (smoky notes are key—choose a quality brand)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)
  • Pinch of salt (enhances all flavors)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (adds a warm spice note)
  • Whipped cream and chili powder for garnish (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium until steaming, about 3-4 minutes—do not boil.
  2. Whisk in chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, and sugar until fully dissolved and smooth, about 2 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat; stir in mezcal, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Tip: The alcohol cooks off slightly, leaving just the flavor.
  4. Return to low heat for 1 minute to warm through, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour into mugs. Tip: Preheat mugs with hot water to keep the drink warmer longer.
  6. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of chili powder for a kick. Tip: Use a fine sieve for an even chili powder sprinkle.

Unbelievably velvety with a smoky whisper, this hot chocolate is a game-changer. Serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra aromatic touch.

Fig and Honey Bourbon Smash

Fig and Honey Bourbon Smash

Whisk your way into summer with this Fig and Honey Bourbon Smash—boozy, fruity, and downright irresistible. Perfect for sipping under the sun or spicing up your next BBQ.

Ingredients

  • 2 fresh figs, quartered (ripe but firm)
  • 1.5 oz bourbon (or your favorite whiskey)
  • 0.5 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and hot water, cooled)
  • 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 2 dashes aromatic bitters (adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
  • Soda water, to top (about 1 oz)
  • Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a shaker, muddle the quartered figs until they’re broken down but still chunky.
  2. Add bourbon, honey syrup, lemon juice, and bitters to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 15 seconds—until the outside feels frosty.
  4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice, using a fine mesh sieve to catch any fig pulp.
  5. Top with a splash of soda water for a bit of fizz.
  6. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, gently slapped between your hands to release its aroma.

Rich with the sweetness of figs and honey, this smash has a velvety texture that’s balanced by the sharpness of lemon and the depth of bourbon. Serve it in a mason jar for a rustic touch or pair with a charcuterie board for an elevated happy hour.

Rosemary Pear Bellini

Rosemary Pear Bellini

Skip the boring brunch drinks—this Rosemary Pear Bellini is your new go-to. Shake up your morning with a fizzy, herbaceous twist that’s as easy as it is Instagram-worthy.

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe pear, peeled and diced (Bartlett or Anjou work best)
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 bottle (750ml) Prosecco, chilled (or any dry sparkling wine)
  • Ice cubes (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Combine diced pear, rosemary leaves, water, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pears are soft and syrup is slightly thickened. Tip: Mash the pears lightly with a spoon for a smoother syrup.
  2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids to extract all liquid. Discard solids. Cool the syrup to room temperature, about 15 minutes. Tip: Speed up cooling by placing the bowl in an ice bath.
  3. Pour 1 tbsp of the pear-rosemary syrup into each champagne flute. Top with Prosecco, leaving about 1 inch at the top. Stir gently to combine. Tip: For a stronger rosemary flavor, let the syrup sit with a fresh sprig for an extra hour before using.
  4. Garnish with a small rosemary sprig and serve immediately. Add ice cubes if desired for a chillier sip.

Here’s the kicker: the pear-rosemary syrup is subtly sweet with a piney punch, perfectly balancing the Prosecco’s bubbles. Hosting a brunch? Double the syrup batch and let guests customize their Bellinis with extra garnishes like thyme or a pear slice.

Conclusion

We hope these 20 cozy winter cocktail recipes bring warmth and joy to your chilly evenings. Each one is a delightful escape into flavor, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment by the fire. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave us a comment, and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Cheers to a warm and spirited season!

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