Nothing says winter like hot chocolate by the fire, especially when topped with a swirl of whipped cream and marshmallows. This boozy hot chocolate recipe is a fun twist on a classic, perfect for warming up on a chilly night.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 oz bourbon or whiskey

• Whipped cream and marshmallows for garnish

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until warm.

2. Add chocolate chips and maple syrup, stirring until melted and smooth.

3. Remove from heat and add whiskey. Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream and marshmallows, and serve.

Pairing Tips

A Maple Bourbon Latte combines coffee with maple syrup and bourbon, delivering a perfect blend of caffeine and warmth. The subtle sweet maple notes and bourbon’s richness create a drink that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup freshly brewed coffee

• 1 oz bourbon

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cup, combine coffee, bourbon, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

2. Stir well and top with whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon.

Pairing Tips

Mulled wine is a classic winter drink that fills the air with warm, spiced aromas, creating a magical ambiance around the fire. It’s an ideal drink for a party or small gathering, served from a large bottle or pot that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of red wine

• ¼ cup honey or simple syrup

• 1 orange, sliced

• 4 whole cloves

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 3-4 star anise

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine wine, honey, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.

2. Heat on low, but avoid boiling. Allow to warm for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Serve in heatproof glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

Pairing Tips

The Hot Toddy is a classic warm cocktail that’s known for soothing throats and warming spirits. The lemon and honey create a balance of sweet and tart flavors, while the whiskey adds a delightful kick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup hot water

• 1 ½ oz whiskey

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 slice of lemon

• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mug, pour hot water over whiskey and honey, stirring to dissolve.

2. Add a slice of lemon and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

3. Serve warm and enjoy.

Pairing Tips

Spiced apple cider with ginger and rum brings out the best of fall and winter flavors. It’s a non-caffeinated option that’s fun for all ages, especially with a spiked version for the adults.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider

• 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 whole cloves

• ¼ cup dark rum (optional)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine apple cider, ginger, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.

2. Heat over medium until warm, then add rum if desired.

3. Strain into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Pairing Tips

This classic cocktail combines whiskey, lemon juice, and honey to create a perfect balance of sweet and sour. It’s refreshing yet warming, making it a great winter cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey

• ¾ oz lemon juice

• ½ oz honey or simple syrup

• Ice

• Lemon wheel for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker with ice, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and honey or simple syrup.

2. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice.

3. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Pairing Tips

Hot buttered rum is an indulgent winter drink, featuring rum mixed with butter, brown sugar, and spices for a creamy, warm treat. This drink is perfect for sipping by a cozy fire after a long, cold day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup hot water

• 1 ½ oz dark rum

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• 1 pat of butter

• Pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a mug, combine hot water, rum, brown sugar, and butter.

2. Stir until butter is melted and spices are mixed in.

3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Pairing Tips

Hot buttered rum’s richness is complemented by oak firewood’s gentle aroma, making for a delicious fireside drink. The drink’s spice and warmth create a cozy setting on a chilled night.

For a kick on cold nights, try a Mexican hot chocolate spiked with tequila and spiced with cinnamon and cayenne. This drink brings the heat and flavor, offering a unique twist on hot chocolate.

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

• 1 oz tequila (optional)

• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

1. Heat milk in a saucepan, add chocolate, cinnamon, and cayenne, stirring until smooth.

2. Add tequila if desired, and pour into mugs.

3. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairing Tips

This whiskey and ginger cocktail is a light and refreshing choice with a hint of spice from ginger. It’s a perfect fireside drink that’s easy to prepare and drink, adding a playful twist to your winter night.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz whiskey

• 3 oz ginger ale

• Lime wedge for garnish

• Ice

Instructions

1. In a glass with ice, pour whiskey and top with ginger ale.

2. Squeeze in a wedge of lime and garnish with another lime wedge.

Pairing Tips

For a unique winter twist, try a Maple Old Fashioned with a touch of maple syrup and angostura bitters. This drink is smooth, slightly sweet, and perfect for a refined fireside experience.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• 2 dashes angostura bitters

• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions

1. In a glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters. Stir well.

2. Add ice and garnish with an orange peel.

Pairing Tips