When temperatures drop, there’s nothing we would rather do than stay inside, cozy up by the fire with a good book, and enjoy a special winter drink. And winter calls for comfort, which ranges from classic cocktails to the family-favorite hot cocoa. Here are our most popular winter drinks, chosen by readers.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Treat yourself to a warm and extra chocolatey mug of cocoa to beat the winter chill. This recipe is made in the slow-cooker (microwave comes in handy when you don’t have as much time), and includes whole milk, half-and-half, and dark chocolate chips. Don’t forget the squishy marshmallows on top.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
What better way to beat the winter blues, then with this specialty cocktail. This recipe gets its sweetness from a homemade honey-ginger syrup, tartness from fresh lemon juice, all with a base of Scotch.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Gather around the fireplace, this is the warm and perfect drink to beat the winter chill. While the classic recipe of this drink is made with rum, our Test Kitchen decided to give it a Southern twist and whipped it up with our favorite Kentucky bourbon.
Hannah Zimmerman/Southern Living
There are many variations for our Hot Toddy, but our recipe is fairly simple and straightforward. Hot tea is mixed with honey, lemon juice, bourbon, and a cinnamon stick, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
The secret to this recipe is that it starts with store-bought apple cider. And the perfect recipe for a cozy afternoon. We dressed up a grocery store apple cider with warm and toasty fall spices and serve it hot.
Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Christine Kelly; Food Stylist: Ali Ramee
For those who would rather drink their dessert – this martini was made for you. Heavy cream, vanilla vodka, and white chocolate liqueur are shaken in an ice-filled cocktail shaker, and strained into a martini glass. Finish it off with shaved dark chocolate for the most delicious touch.
Greg Dupree, Food Stylist: Ali Ramee, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster
If you love a Bloody Mary, then you will find this version even more comforting and delicious. The flavorful potlikker softens the acidic tomato juice and plays up the subtle sweetness of just the right amount of vodka. Say cheers to a new cocktail.
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
Well, hello, old friend. This brandy-based cocktail is rich and creamy, and will certainly bring back a few fond memories.
Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
If your go-to order is an Old-Fashioned, then this is the recipe for you. Try something new, fruity, and flavorful with the addition of cranberries.
Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Kathleen Varner; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
Satsuma season is short so don’t miss the opportunity to let them shine at happy hour. The citrus zest of fresh satsuma juice works well with the grapefruit soda and tequila in this twist on the paloma.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Ginger beer, lime, and dark rum are the three ingredients responsible for making this drink a classic. Layered, comforting, and made for winter evenings inside or summer days on the water.
Photo: Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Thom Driver; Food Stylist: Tina Stamos
Want to bring the party? Make this drink. The name is so fun, it’s worth whipping up for any occasion, and it’s made with ice, rum, lime juice, sugar, and bitters.
