Winter cocktails should be comforting yet flavorful, and whiskey is the perfect base to achieve both. In this article, you’ll find 14 popular winter whiskey cocktails that combine seasonal spices, citrus, and warmth to create the perfect cold-weather drinks. Read on for simple recipes to add to your winter entertaining repertoire.
Hot Whiskey Toddy
A Hot Whiskey Toddy is a soothing choice during the colder months. This classic cocktail warms you from the inside. It’s simple yet effective.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 lemon slice
- 1 cup hot water
Optional Garnish
- Fresh grated nutmeg
- Cinnamon stick
- Slice of ginger
Instructions
- Heat your mug with boiling water for a cozy touch.
- Combine whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in the mug.
- Stir in the hot water until smooth.
- Add a garnish of nutmeg, cinnamon, or ginger for extra warmth.
This drink is customizable. For a vegan option, replace honey with agave syrup. Adding extra spices can enhance the flavor.
Irish Coffee
Irish Coffee is a classic winter cocktail that warms you on cold days. This drink combines smooth whiskey and rich coffee with sweet cream topping for a delightful experience.
Start by preparing your ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Freshly brewed hot coffee
- Lightly whipped heavy cream
To assemble your Irish Coffee:
- Begin by warming your coffee glass with hot water. Discard the water.
- Add the brown sugar to the warm glass.
- Pour in the Irish whiskey and freshly brewed coffee, then stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Use the back of a spoon to float the lightly whipped cream on top.
This balance of bitter coffee and smooth whiskey, sweetened slightly, creates a comforting beverage. The layer of cream adds a luxurious touch.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail perfect for winter. Its refreshing and bold flavors make it a favorite among whiskey lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional for a frothy texture)
- Lemon slice or cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) in a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a lemon slice or cherry.
Enjoy the Whiskey Sour’s balance of sour and sweet with every sip. It’s a versatile cocktail suitable for various occasions. The combination of bourbon and lemon offers a warming sensation that’s ideal for cold weather. The potential egg white addition provides a creamy texture, enhancing the drink’s appeal without overpowering.
Maple Old Fashioned
The Maple Old Fashioned is a cozy twist on a classic favorite, making it perfect for winter. This cocktail combines the richness of whiskey with the sweet, earthy notes of maple syrup. It offers warmth and comfort, reminiscent of a fireside gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/2 tsp maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
- Large ice cube
Instructions
- Pour whiskey, maple syrup, and bitters into a lowball or old-fashioned glass.
- Stir the mix until the maple syrup is fully dissolved.
- Add a large ice cube to the glass.
- Use a knife to peel a strip of orange.
- Squeeze the orange peel over the drink to release its oils.
- Gently rub the peel around the rim of the glass and then drop it in.
This combination of ingredients elevates an Old Fashioned to new levels of flavor, bringing in notes of sweetness and citrus from the maple and orange peel. The detailed method keeps this drink as simple as it is satisfying.
Hot Buttered Whiskey
Hot Buttered Whiskey is a warming winter treat. Combine rich, buttery flavors with a kick of whiskey. Perfect for chilly nights.
To make Hot Buttered Whiskey, you’ll need:
- 2 oz whiskey: Choose your favorite for a personalized touch.
- 2 tsp softened butter: Adds richness.
- 2 tsp brown sugar: Sweetens the drink.
- 1 dash ground cinnamon: For warmth.
- 1 dash ground nutmeg: Adds depth.
- 4 oz hot water: Provides warmth and dilution.
Instructions:
- Mix the butter, sugar, and spices in a small bowl until smooth and combined.
- Pour the whiskey into a mug. Add the butter mixture.
- Fill with hot water. Stir to melt the butter and blend the flavors.
Spiced Whiskey Punch
Spice up your winter gatherings with a Spiced Whiskey Punch. This delightful cocktail combines the warmth of whiskey with rich spices, providing comfort on cold nights. Its bold flavors will leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whiskey
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup simple syrup
- 1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
- 2 star anise, for garnish
- Orange slices, for garnish
Instructions:
- Mix whiskey, apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a large punch bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- Serve over ice, garnished with a cinnamon stick, star anise, and orange slices.
This punch invites warmth and conviviality. The spices meld seamlessly with the citrus notes, making it a perfect choice for winter festivities.
Winter Manhattan
The Winter Manhattan brings warmth and sophistication to your cocktail collection. It’s a comforting twist on the classic Manhattan, perfect for colder months.
To create this cocktail, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1/4 oz pear brandy (for a seasonal touch)
- Garnish: twist of lemon or melon-ball of pear
Instructions:
- Add whiskey, vermouth, pears brandy, and bitters into a mixing glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or pear melon-ball for a finished look.
The combination of pear brandy and classic Manhattan ingredients enhances the drink’s depth. The garnish adds fragrance and visual appeal.
Whiskey Ginger
The Whiskey Ginger is a popular drink. It combines whiskey and ginger ale for a refreshing taste. It’s simple and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz whiskey
- Ginger ale to top
- Ice
- Fresh lime wedge (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour the whiskey over the ice.
- Top with ginger ale.
- Squeeze lime juice into the drink if desired.
- Stir gently to combine.
You can use different types of whiskey. Bourbon, rye, or Irish whiskey all work well. This allows you to personalize your drink according to your preference.
The Whiskey Ginger is versatile. You can add a splash of lemon juice for extra zest. Try garnishing with a lemon wheel for a touch of elegance.
Simple syrup can be added if you like it sweeter. Adjust the ginger ale to control sweetness and spiciness.
Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
A Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a delightful twist on a classic cocktail. The blend of bourbon, lemon, and the warmth of cinnamon offers a comforting drink perfect for winter gatherings.
To make a Cinnamon Whiskey Sour, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz maple syrup
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
Follow these simple instructions to create your drink:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
- Shake well to combine the flavors.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or an orange slice if desired.
This cocktail is easy to prepare in larger batches too. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities to suit your needs.
Maple Whiskey Smash
The Maple Whiskey Smash is a delightful cocktail for cold evenings. It brings together rich flavors with a hint of sweetness. You’ll love this combination of maple syrup and whiskey. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Whiskey
- 1 oz Maple Syrup
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 Orange Wheel
- Mint Leaves
- Ice
Instructions
- Place the maple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters in a rocks glass.
- Add the orange wheel and lightly muddle.
- Pour in the whiskey and stir well.
- Add ice to fill the glass.
- Garnish with mint leaves.
Enjoy this cozy cocktail with friends or by a warm fire. It’s a classic, yet simple drink that elevates any winter gathering.
Apple Cider Whiskey
Ingredients:
- 2 oz whiskey
- 4 oz apple cider
- Dash of cinnamon
- Slice of apple for garnish
Instructions:
- Mix whiskey and apple cider in a glass.
- Add a dash of cinnamon.
- Stir gently.
- Garnish with a slice of apple.
Enjoy your drink in a lowball glass, or warm it up for a soothing hot cider version. If you prefer a fizzy twist, add a splash of club soda.
It’s easy to customize your apple cider whiskey. Try adding cloves or star anise. This drink is adaptable to your taste preferences. Whether you like it sweet or tangy, you can adjust the balance.
Serve your apple cider whiskey on festive occasions. Its rich flavors are a hit at any gathering.
Whiskey Hot Chocolate
Winter calls for cozy drinks. Whiskey hot chocolate is a delightful treat. It combines the warmth of whiskey with rich, creamy chocolate. Perfect for a chilly evening.
To make a classic whiskey hot chocolate, you will need:
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons hot chocolate mix
- 2 ounces whiskey
- Whipped cream for topping
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the milk in a saucepan. Do not boil.
- Stir in the hot chocolate mix. Whisk until smooth.
- Remove from heat. Add whiskey. Stir gently.
- Pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings.
Try adding a twist to this classic. Use flavored whiskeys like cinnamon or chocolate. Experiment with different hot chocolate blends. This adds depth to the drink.
If you prefer stronger flavors, consider adding a shot of espresso. This gives a coffee-infused twist to your cocktail. Cocoa powder can enhance the chocolate profile.
For an indulgent experience, top with more than just whipped cream. Use marshmallows, caramel sauce, or even peppermint sticks. These additions bring festive cheer to your drink.
Whiskey hot chocolate is adaptable. Customize it to match your taste. Adjust the whiskey amount to control the strength. Warm, rich, and satisfying, it’s a winter favorite you’ll enjoy.
Mulled Whiskey Cider
Mulled whiskey cider is a cozy winter cocktail. You’ll enjoy the warmth from spices blended with whiskey and apple cider. Here’s a simple recipe to create this delightful drink.
Ingredients
- 4.5 oz. hot mulled apple cider
- 1 oz. whiskey
- 1 oz. unsweetened half-whipped heavy cream (optional)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the apple cider in a pot.
- Pour the whiskey into a pre-heated mug.
- Add hot cider, leaving a small gap at the top.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
This drink combines sweetness and warmth. The spices in the mulled cider enhance the whiskey’s flavor. Adjust the spice level to your preference. Perfect for sipping by the fire, it delivers comfort in every warming sip.
Rob Roy
The Rob Roy is a classic winter whiskey cocktail made with Scotch. It is similar to a Manhattan, but it swaps in Scotch for American whiskey. This gives the drink a notable smoky flavor.
To prepare a Rob Roy, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 ounces Scotch whisky
- 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add Scotch, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Stir well until chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry.
When choosing Scotch, consider the balance you desire between smoky and sweet. The Rob Roy allows you to explore different flavor profiles depending on your Scotch selection.
This cocktail has a rich history, as it was named after a Scotsman and gained popularity from a 19th-century operetta.
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