6 Hot Cocktails to Warm You Up This Winter

The cold weather is here. Get cozy with one of these cocktails that are meant to be enjoyed while hot.

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HOT TODDY

THE classic hot cocktail. Some say it helps you get over colds; I just say it is a great way to warm up.

RECIPE

• 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or Irish)
• ¾ oz lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 4 oz hot water
• Garnish: cinnamon stick + lemon wheel

Instructions: Stir whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in a mug. Top with hot water. Garnish.

MULLED WINE

Mulled wine is delicious and has a delightful aroma.

RECIPE

• 2 bottles red wine
• 1 ¼ cups brandy
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cloves
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 orange, sliced

Instructions: Peel orange using peeler. Mix all ingredients with orange juice and peels, and bring to a boil. Immediately change to simmer and simmer 30 minutes.

MEXICAN HOT COCOA

Spicy hot cocoa gets a tequila kick. Customize your spice level to your own preferences.

RECIPE

• 1 cup whole milk (or oat milk)
• 2 oz tequila reposado
• 2 tbsp Abuelita chocolate, chopped
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of cayenne or chili powder
• Whipped cream or marshmallows

Instructions: Heat milk but avoid boiling. Combine all ingredients and stir. Top with garnish.

BOOZY EARL GREY

Your favorite black tea but boozy. Gin and lavender bring out the floral notes and honey provides the sweetness.

RECIPE

• 1 cup hot brewed Earl Grey tea
• 1.5 oz gin
• 1 oz honey

1 oz steamed milk or milk alternative

• Lavender Bitters (optional)

Instructions: Brew tea. Add syrup, which you can make by boiling water and adding an equal amount of honey. Add booze and top with frothed, heated milk. Finish with bitters.

HAZELNUT COFFEE

Coffee and booze? Sure. This recipe uses hazelnut liqueur to add a sweet finish.

RECIPE

• 6 oz hot brewed coffee
• 1 oz Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur)
• 1 oz Irish cream or amaretto (optional for richness)
• Whipped cream and grated nutmeg, for topping

Instructions: Add all ingredients into a mug. Top with whipped cream and grated nutmeg.

BUTTERED RUM

Another classic cold-weather cocktail that is as indulgent as it is comforting.

RECIPE

• 2 oz dark rum
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• Pinch cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions: Put all ingredients into mug and add hot water. Stir together. Top with more cinnamon as desired.