An overhead picture of two winter cocktails on a festive table

Warming Christmas Cocktails

When the temperature dips and the festive season arrives it’s time to reach for something delicious that will keep you feeling cosy. Our warming Christmas cocktails are perfect for the season and while mulled wine and hot whiskeys are reliable go-tos, there are lots of other drinks and cocktails you can enjoy at this time of year.

We've picked out some simple and delicious recipes that offer a tasty twist on some well-known classics, with everything from a hot chocolate with a kick to a party-ready mulled punch with a difference. Embrace the season and give them a try!

Tequila hot chocolate

 If you’re looking for something aromatic and warming, look no further than this perfect pairing! Upgrade your traditional hot chocolate with this Mexican-style twist. Chocolate and tequila make a delicious duo and for this recipe we’d suggest using Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila.

Ingredients

  • 35ml tequila 
  • Powdered hot chocolate of choice
  • A pinch of salt
  • A pinch of cayenne powder
  • Marshmallows (optional)
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Method 

  1. Prepare the hot chocolate in a mug according to the directions on the packet. 
  2. Add tequila, salt and cayenne pepper. 
  3. Stir and top with marshmallows and/or whipped cream, if desired.


Mulled gin punch

This is a fantastic choice if you have friends coming round – it looks impressive and tastes fantastic yet it's so easy to make. The madeira adds a deeper, more rounded ‘punch-like’ flavour, but this delicious drink can be enjoyed without it, if you prefer. Just make sure to opt for a good quality gin, like Tanqueray.

Ingredients

  • 350ml gin  
  • 350ml Madeira (optional) 
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Lemon peel, studded with cloves
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • A pinch of nutmeg
  • 3 cinnamon sticks (optional)
  • 3 star anise (optional)

Method

  1. Add all the ingredients to a large saucepan and simmer on a low heat for 20 minutes.
  2. Pour into a bowl or tea pot and serve in tea cups.
  3. Add extra orange slices and star anise for garnish if desired. 

Hot buttered rum

This is a warming and luxurious winter cocktail that's just the thing to enjoy when curled up on the couch. A spiced rum like Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold works well and gives a deeper flavour but if you like a lighter drink, a golden rum like Havana Club Añejo Especial will give you more lifted, delicate flavours.

Ingredients 

  • 35ml rum
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
  • A dash of ground cinnamon
  • A dash of ground nutmeg

Method

  1. In a mug, mash the butter, sugar and spices into a paste. 
  2. Add the rum and top with hot water. 
  3. Stir well and enjoy.


Chamomile hot toddy

This comforting and soothing drink is a lovely winter warmer (and a great option if you've picked up a cold!). Chamomile has delicate and floral notes while the brandy adds a welcome warmth that turns this drink into something luxurious. For this, you can’t go wrong with Hennessy VS. Cognac.  

Ingredients

  • 35ml brandy 
  • Chamomile tea
  • Lemon wedge
  • Honey, to taste
  • Cinnamon sticks (optional)

 

Method

  1. Pour the brandy and honey into a mug.
  2. Add the lemon wedge and cinnamon stick, if using.
  3. Top with freshly brewed chamomile tea and stir gently.


READ MORE: Classic Cocktail Recipes With A Japanese Twist
READ MORE:  The Best Rum & Bourbon Cocktail Recipes