These winter drink recipes almost — almost — take the sting out of a cold New York chill. Whether you’re warming tiny hands and toes, relaxing on a lazy January Saturday with friends, or hosting a mid-season party, these hot drinks recipes will keep you toasty and reaching for more.
Hot Chocolate With a Twist
There are a million hot chocolate recipes, but only one caramel hot chocolate. Cooking Classy shares this delightful concoction that’s a treat for all ages. Plan ahead — you’ll need lots of unusual ingredients, such as bittersweet chocolate chips. Don’t want to fuss with making your own caramel and whipped topping? Buy a jar of premade caramel and Reddi-wip.
Check out our blog post on Hanukkah Drinks to fancy up your holiday party
Hot Toddy
Even people who don’t drink whisky can’t resist the lure of the hot toddy, especially when it’s sweetened with local honey. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requires ingredients you probably already have such as bourbon, honey, lemon juice and water, and smells astonishingly delicious.
Spicy Chai Latte
Yes, you can make your own chai, and there are dozens of ways to make it — with very few mistakes. This is another plan-ahead recipe since you’ll need robust spices such as fennel, cardamom, cloves and gingerroot — but don’t be afraid to substitute with anything fragrant. Steep for several minutes and enjoy.
Buttered Rum
If a hot toddy sounds good but you just can’t stomach the whisky, opt for buttered rum. Rachael Ray recommends using a spiced rum such as Captain Morgan with plenty of dark brown sugar, spices, butter and honey.
Cranberry Spiced Cider
Break out the crock pot and make this cranberry spiced cider recipe, perfect for everyone in the family. If you want to make a grown-up version, just add rum. This fun and fragrant make-ahead cocktail makes enjoying family get-togethers simple, plus it helps your home smell grand.
Mexican Coffee
Who doesn’t love a little Bailey’s or Kahlua in their hot winter drinks? Add a little zip to this cold-weather favorite by mixing hot coffee with Kahlua and tequila and topping with coffee whipped cream. Add a cherry and voila! Mexican coffee.
Stay cozy and order your supplies from Beverage Universe!