20+ Delicious Winter Cocktails Recipes

As the chill of winter settles in, there’s no better way to warm your spirits than with a delightful winter cocktail.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, cozying up by the fireplace, or simply looking for a festive drink to brighten your evening, winter cocktails offer a world of flavor and creativity.

From spiced classics to innovative seasonal blends, these drinks celebrate the best of winter ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, citrus, and cranberries.

In this collection of 20+ winter cocktail recipes, you’ll find something for every occasion.

Whether you’re a fan of warm, soothing drinks or prefer something on the rocks, these recipes will elevate your winter sipping experience.

Gather your favorite ingredients, and let’s mix up some magic!

20+ Delicious Winter Cocktails Recipes

Winter is the perfect season to experiment with bold flavors, cozy spices, and rich textures in your cocktails.

This curated list of 20+ winter cocktail recipes has everything from crowd-pleasing classics to innovative creations that are sure to impress.

These recipes are designed to make your gatherings memorable and your quiet evenings a little more indulgent.

Whether you’re hosting a festive bash, enjoying a romantic night in, or simply treating yourself, these cocktails are your ticket to savoring the best of the season.

Grab your shaker, light the fireplace, and toast to winter in style.

Cheers!

Spiced Winter Mulled Wine

A warm cup of spiced mulled wine is the ultimate cozy drink for chilly winter nights. Infused with citrus, cinnamon, and fragrant spices, this classic cocktail transforms simple red wine into a festive beverage that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fireplace. Easy to prepare and irresistibly aromatic, it’s a winter staple that will warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel work well)
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 cloves
• 3 star anise
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional for extra warmth)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the red wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the wine is warm but not boiling.
3. Stir in the honey or maple syrup, adjusting sweetness to taste.
4. If desired, add brandy for an extra kick.
5. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Strain the mulled wine into mugs, discarding the solids. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice and serve warm.

Spiced winter mulled wine is a drink that not only fills your home with inviting aromas but also brings a sense of comfort and cheer to any winter evening. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a solo moment of relaxation, this cocktail is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Hot Buttered Rum

Hot buttered rum is a decadent winter treat that combines the warmth of rum with the richness of butter, spices, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for snowy days and cozy nights, this drink is as comforting as a thick blanket and just as indulgent. It’s a traditional favorite that never goes out of style during the colder months.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 2 oz dark rum per serving
• Cinnamon sticks (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat water until hot but not boiling.
2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into a smooth paste.
3. Add 1–2 tablespoons of the butter mixture to a mug. Pour in 2 oz of dark rum and fill the mug with hot water.
4. Stir well until the butter mixture is fully melted and combined.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired, and serve immediately.

Hot buttered rum is more than just a drink—it’s an experience of pure comfort and indulgence. Rich, spiced, and wonderfully warming, this classic cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to savor the coziest flavors of winter.

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini

The white chocolate peppermint martini is a festive and decadent cocktail that captures the magic of the holiday season in a glass. Creamy, minty, and beautifully presented, this drink is a showstopper for winter parties or an indulgent treat for yourself. It’s a modern take on dessert cocktails that will satisfy your sweet tooth and delight your senses.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz heavy cream or milk
• Crushed candy canes (for rimming the glass)
• Whipped cream (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rim a martini glass with crushed candy canes by moistening the edge with water and dipping it into the candy cane pieces.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream with ice. Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with additional crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.

The white chocolate peppermint martini is a luxurious and festive way to celebrate winter. With its creamy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress at gatherings or elevate your evening with a touch of elegance. Indulge in its decadent flavors and toast to the beauty of the season!

Gingerbread Old Fashioned

The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on a classic cocktail, bringing the warm, spiced flavors of the holiday season to every sip. With hints of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, this drink is perfect for fans of traditional bourbon but with a festive flair. Whether served at holiday parties or enjoyed by the fire, this cocktail captures the cozy spirit of winter.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/4 oz gingerbread syrup (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice
• Orange peel and cinnamon stick (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, gingerbread syrup, and bitters. Stir until well mixed.
2. Fill a rocks glass with ice and strain the bourbon mixture over it.
3. Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy.

The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is a sophisticated yet approachable drink that blends classic bourbon notes with the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread. Its balance of warmth and spice makes it an ideal choice for those who want to sip something seasonal without straying too far from tradition.

Cranberry Rosemary Gin Fizz

The Cranberry Rosemary Gin Fizz is a refreshing yet wintery cocktail that strikes the perfect balance between tart cranberries, herbal rosemary, and the botanical notes of gin. Light and effervescent, it’s ideal for holiday brunches, New Year’s Eve celebrations, or any time you’re craving something festive and bright.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened)
• 1/2 oz rosemary simple syrup (recipe below)
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• Sparkling water
• Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Rosemary Simple Syrup:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 sprigs rosemary

Instructions:

1. Make the rosemary simple syrup by combining sugar, water, and rosemary in a small saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and cool.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, rosemary simple syrup, and lemon juice with ice. Shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with sparkling water.
4. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.

The Cranberry Rosemary Gin Fizz is as delightful to look at as it is to drink. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a standout addition to your winter cocktail repertoire. It’s a drink that promises to add sparkle to any occasion.

Chai Hot Toddy

The Chai Hot Toddy takes the comforting qualities of chai tea and combines them with the warming kick of whiskey for a perfect winter cocktail. Rich in aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, this drink is ideal for warding off the chill of winter evenings. It’s soothing, flavorful, and packed with seasonal charm.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brewed chai tea (strong)
• 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• Cinnamon stick and star anise (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of strong chai tea and let it steep for a few minutes.
2. In a mug, combine whiskey, honey or maple syrup, and lemon juice. Stir to dissolve.
3. Pour the hot chai tea over the mixture and stir well.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a star anise. Serve immediately.

The Chai Hot Toddy is a wonderfully aromatic cocktail that delivers the perfect blend of warmth and spice for a cozy winter drink. It’s a creative take on a classic hot toddy, offering a soothing escape from the cold while celebrating the flavors of the season.

Maple Pecan Whiskey Sour

The Maple Pecan Whiskey Sour is a decadent winter cocktail that brings together the rich flavors of maple syrup, toasted pecans, and whiskey. This drink is smooth, nutty, and perfectly balanced with a touch of citrus, making it a delightful choice for those chilly evenings. Whether for a holiday gathering or a quiet night in, this cocktail offers a cozy and indulgent experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz maple syrup
• 1/2 oz pecan liqueur (optional for added nuttiness)
• Ice
• Lemon twist and crushed pecans (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, and pecan liqueur with ice. Shake well for about 15 seconds.
2. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist and a sprinkle of crushed pecans around the rim or on top.
4. Serve and enjoy the rich, nutty flavors.

The Maple Pecan Whiskey Sour is a deliciously comforting drink that captures the essence of winter with every sip. Its balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors makes it a standout option for those who love sophisticated cocktails with a seasonal twist.

Cinnamon Apple Brandy Punch

The Cinnamon Apple Brandy Punch is a warm and inviting winter cocktail, perfect for serving a crowd. It combines the crisp flavors of apple cider with the bold warmth of brandy, all elevated by a hint of cinnamon and spices. Whether hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy evening, this drink will fill your home with the essence of winter.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups apple cider
• 1 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4–5 whole cloves
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
• Apple slices and orange wheels (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and brown sugar. Heat over medium-low heat until warm (do not boil).
2. Add brandy and orange juice, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and let simmer gently for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a heatproof punch bowl or individual mugs.
4. Garnish with apple slices and orange wheels. Serve warm.

The Cinnamon Apple Brandy Punch is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering a blend of bold and sweet flavors that evoke the coziness of winter. It’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it a go-to choice for holiday entertaining or family gatherings.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini is a rich and decadent winter treat that combines the comforting flavors of hot chocolate with the cool, festive flair of peppermint. Creamy and indulgent, this cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fireplace or serving as a dessert drink at holiday celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz chocolate liqueur
• 1/2 cup hot milk or cream
• Crushed candy canes (for rimming the glass)
• Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rim a martini glass with crushed candy canes by moistening the rim with water and dipping it into the candy cane pieces.
2. In a shaker, combine vodka, peppermint schnapps, chocolate liqueur, and hot milk or cream. Shake gently to mix.
3. Strain into the prepared glass.
4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a festive touch.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini is a luxurious cocktail that combines the best of winter’s indulgent flavors. Its rich chocolatey base and refreshing peppermint notes make it a delightful way to toast the season, whether you’re celebrating with friends or enjoying a quiet, festive moment.

Winter Spice Sangria

Winter Spice Sangria takes the vibrant, fruity essence of sangria and adds a cozy winter twist. Infused with warming spices, seasonal fruits, and a splash of red wine, this drink is the perfect crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings or intimate dinners. Its balance of sweetness and spice makes it a versatile option for any winter occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (Tempranillo or Shiraz works well)
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 apple, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4–5 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1 cup sparkling water or ginger ale (for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher or bowl, combine the red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the orange slices, apple pieces, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
4. Before serving, top with sparkling water or ginger ale for a fizzy finish.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a sprig of rosemary.

Winter Spice Sangria is a vibrant and festive cocktail that perfectly captures the flavors of the season. Its fruity base, complemented by warming spices, makes it a delightful drink to share with friends and family throughout the colder months.

Eggnog Espresso Martini

The Eggnog Espresso Martini is a luxurious cocktail that combines the creamy decadence of eggnog with the bold kick of espresso and vodka. It’s the perfect blend of indulgence and energy, ideal for holiday parties or an after-dinner treat. With its smooth texture and festive flavor, it’s sure to become a winter favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
• 2 oz eggnog
• 1/2 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
• Ice
• Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, espresso, eggnog, and coffee liqueur with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Sprinkle ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top for garnish.
4. Serve and enjoy immediately.

The Eggnog Espresso Martini is a festive and indulgent drink that perfectly bridges the gap between dessert and cocktail. Its rich and creamy texture, paired with a caffeinated kick, makes it an unforgettable choice for winter celebrations.

Blood Orange Bourbon Smash

The Blood Orange Bourbon Smash is a bold and refreshing winter cocktail that combines the tangy sweetness of blood oranges with the warmth of bourbon. Accented by a hint of maple syrup and fresh herbs, this drink is as visually stunning as it is delicious. It’s perfect for seasonal sipping or impressing guests at your next winter soirée.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
• 1/2 oz maple syrup
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• A few fresh mint leaves or rosemary sprigs
• Ice
• Blood orange slice and rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the mint leaves or rosemary sprig with maple syrup and lemon juice.
2. Add bourbon, blood orange juice, and ice. Shake well for 15 seconds.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Garnish with a blood orange slice and a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic finish.

The Blood Orange Bourbon Smash is a cocktail that stands out for its vibrant flavors and seasonal appeal. The bold citrus notes paired with the smooth warmth of bourbon make it a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice for winter gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

Toasted Marshmallow White Russian

The Toasted Marshmallow White Russian is a decadent winter cocktail that takes the classic creamy drink to a whole new level. With its velvety coffee flavors, the addition of toasted marshmallows brings a nostalgic warmth, reminiscent of cozy nights by the fire. This indulgent cocktail is perfect for dessert lovers and holiday celebrations alike.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
• 2 oz heavy cream or milk
• Marshmallows (for toasting)
• Crushed graham crackers (optional for garnish)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Rim a glass with crushed graham crackers by moistening the edge and dipping it into the crumbs (optional).
2. Fill the glass with ice and pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur. Stir to combine.
3. Gently layer the heavy cream or milk on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
4. Toast marshmallows using a kitchen torch or broiler, then skewer and place on top of the drink as garnish.
5. Serve and enjoy the cozy sweetness.

The Toasted Marshmallow White Russian is a show-stopping drink that adds a playful, festive touch to a traditional cocktail. Its combination of creamy, coffee, and toasted flavors makes it an irresistible winter treat for sipping by the fire or at holiday gatherings.

Mulled Red Wine Margarita

The Mulled Red Wine Margarita is a creative fusion of two beloved drinks, combining the spicy warmth of mulled wine with the citrusy zing of a margarita. This cocktail is rich, vibrant, and layered with flavors, making it a unique and delightful choice for winter entertaining or a twist on traditional holiday fare.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz tequila
• 3 oz mulled red wine (see instructions below)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
• 1/2 oz agave syrup
• Ice
• Lime wheel and cinnamon stick (for garnish)

Mulled Red Wine:

• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2–3 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar
• Orange peel

Instructions:

1. To make mulled wine, heat red wine with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, honey, and orange peel over low heat until warm (do not boil). Strain and cool.
2. In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, agave syrup, and mulled wine with ice. Shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice or serve it straight up in a festive glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel and a cinnamon stick.

The Mulled Red Wine Margarita offers a sophisticated yet playful twist on winter cocktails, blending classic margarita elements with the heartwarming spices of mulled wine. This drink is sure to impress with its bold flavors and seasonal charm.

Hot Buttered Rum with Spiced Honey

Hot Buttered Rum with Spiced Honey is the ultimate winter warmer. Rich, buttery, and filled with aromatic spices, this classic cocktail is enhanced by the sweetness of spiced honey for a luxurious twist. Perfect for snowy nights or holiday evenings, this drink feels like a warm hug in a glass.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz dark rum
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp spiced honey (see instructions below)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 3 oz hot water
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish)

Spiced Honey:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Make the spiced honey by gently warming honey with ground cloves and ginger. Stir and let cool.
2. In a mug, add butter, spiced honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour in hot water and stir until butter melts.
3. Add rum and stir again to combine.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve immediately.

Hot Buttered Rum with Spiced Honey is a timeless winter classic, elevated with the warm, aromatic notes of spiced honey. This drink is both luxurious and comforting, making it an essential addition to your winter cocktail lineup.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!