15 Hot Cocktails for Polar Express

winter warmers for celebrations

Spiked Hot Chocolate

indulgent spiked hot chocolate

Spiked Hot Chocolate is a delightful twist on the classic winter beverage, combining rich, creamy chocolate with a kick of your favorite spirits. Perfect for cozying up by the fire or enjoying at a holiday gathering, this indulgent drink is sure to warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Milk 2 cups
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons
Sugar 2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt a pinch
Bourbon or rum 2 ounces
Whipped cream For topping
Chocolate shavings For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream, heating until just warmed.
  2. Stir in the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon or rum.
  4. Pour the spiked hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Warm Apple Cider Toddy

warm spiced apple cider cocktail

Warm Apple Cider Toddy is a comforting and aromatic drink perfect for chilly evenings. This delightful cocktail blends the sweetness of apple cider with warm spices and a splash of whiskey, creating a cozy beverage that warms the soul. It’s an excellent choice for gatherings or to enjoy while snuggled up at home.

Ingredients Quantity
Apple cider 3 cups
Water 1 cup
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Cinnamon sticks 2 sticks
Whole cloves 4-5
Star anise 1 (optional)
Whiskey (bourbon or rye) 4 ounces
Lemon slices For garnish
Whipped cream For topping (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, water, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Heat over medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
  2. Once heated, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the whiskey.
  4. Strain the cider mixture into mugs, discarding the spices, and garnish with a lemon slice. Optionally, top with whipped cream.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the festive flavors!
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Peppermint White Russian

festive peppermint white russian

The Peppermint White Russian is a festive twist on the classic White Russian cocktail, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights. This delightful drink features the creamy richness of traditional ingredients, enhanced by the invigorating flavor of peppermint, making it a must-try for those looking to add a seasonal touch to their cocktail repertoire.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 2 ounces
Coffee liqueur 1 ounce
Heavy cream or milk 1 ounce
Peppermint schnapps 1 ounce
Crushed ice As needed
Peppermint candy (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Fill a glass with crushed ice.
  2. In a shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream (or milk).
  3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into the glass over the ice.
  5. Garnish with crushed peppermint candy if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
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Irish Coffee With a Twist

warm chocolate mint irish coffee

Irish Coffee With a Twist is a classic warm cocktail that combines rich coffee, smooth Irish whiskey, and a luxurious layer of whipped cream. This variant adds a hint of chocolate and a touch of mint for a delightful and unexpected flavor twist, making it an ideal choice for cold evenings or as a festive after-dinner drink.

Ingredients Quantity
Hot brewed coffee 6 ounces
Irish whiskey 1.5 ounces
Chocolate liqueur 1 ounce
Brown sugar 1 teaspoon
Whipped cream 2 ounces
Mint leaves (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a heatproof glass, combine the hot brewed coffee, Irish whiskey, chocolate liqueur, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
  2. Gently float the whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
  3. Garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm twist on this Irish classic!
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Cinnamon Spiked Eggnog

cinnamon infused holiday eggnog

Cinnamon Spiked Eggnog is a warm and comforting cocktail that blends the creamy richness of traditional eggnog with a delightful kick of cinnamon and optional spirits. This festive drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, offering a sweet and spiced flavor that delights the senses and warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Eggnog 2 cups
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg (freshly grated) 1/4 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Rum or bourbon (optional) 1.5 ounces
Whipped cream For garnish
Cinnamon stick For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, gently heat the eggnog over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through (do not boil).
  2. Stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. If desired, mix in the rum or bourbon.
  3. Once heated to your liking, pour the spiked eggnog into mugs or heatproof glasses.
  4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Mulled Wine

warm aromatic spiced cocktail

Mulled Wine is a classic warm cocktail that infuses red wine with an array of aromatic spices and fruity flavors, making it the perfect drink for cold weather and festive gatherings. This delightful mixture brings warmth and coziness, often enjoyed during holiday parties or while relaxing by the fireplace. The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus creates a wonderfully fragrant and flavorful beverage that envelops you in comfort.

Ingredients Quantity
Red wine 1 bottle (750 ml)
Orange (sliced) 1
Lemon (sliced) 1
Whole cloves 6-8
Cinnamon sticks 2
Star anise 1 (optional)
Sugar or honey 1/4 cup
Water 1 cup
Nutmeg (grated) A pinch (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, water, orange slices, lemon slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
  2. Heat the mixture over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm but not boiling.
  3. Add sugar or honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
  4. Let the mulled wine simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Strain the wine into mugs or heatproof glasses, garnishing with additional citrus slices and a cinnamon stick, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Hot Buttered Rum

warm cozy rum cocktail

Hot Buttered Rum is a delightful warm cocktail that embodies the essence of comfort and indulgence during chilly evenings. This rich and creamy drink combines the smoothness of rum with the richness of butter, brown sugar, and spices, creating a cozy treat that is perfect for sipping by the fireplace or at holiday gatherings. The warmth of the rum, paired with a buttery texture and hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, makes this drink a beloved classic for winter nights.

Ingredients Quantity
Dark rum 2 oz
Butter (softened) 1 tbsp
Brown sugar 1 tbsp
Hot water 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp
Whipped cream (for garnish, optional) As desired

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a heatproof mug, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  2. Add the dark rum to the mug and stir until the butter and sugar are well blended.
  3. Pour in the hot water and stir to combine, ensuring that everything is mixed thoroughly.
  4. Top with whipped cream if desired, and sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for garnish.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors of Hot Buttered Rum!
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Spiced Rum Cocoa

warm spiced rum cocoa

Spiced Rum Cocoa is a warm and comforting cocktail that combines the rich flavors of cocoa with the warming spices of rum, making it an ideal drink for cold nights. This delightful concoction marries chocolate with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, creating a sweet and invigorating beverage perfect for cozy gatherings or a relaxing evening by the fire.

Ingredients Quantity
Dark chocolate (chopped) 2 oz
Milk 1 cup
Dark rum 1.5 oz
Ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp
Vanilla extract 1/4 tsp
Whipped cream (for garnish, optional) As desired

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
  2. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and continue to stir until fully melted and combined.
  3. Add the dark rum, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, stirring to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Pour the spiced cocoa into a heatproof mug and top with whipped cream if desired.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the rich flavors of Spiced Rum Cocoa!
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Bourbon Maple Cider

cozy autumn bourbon cocktail

Bourbon Maple Cider is a delightful fall-inspired cocktail that blends the smoothness of bourbon with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and the warm, comforting flavors of spiced apple cider. This drink is perfect for chilly evenings, evoking the essence of autumn with every sip. Sip this warming concoction around a bonfire or while curled up indoors, and let its rich flavors transport you to a cozy retreat.

Ingredients Quantity
Apple cider 2 cups
Bourbon 1.5 oz
Maple syrup 1 oz
Ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp
Whole cloves 2-3
Orange slice (for garnish) 1 slice
Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional) 1 stick

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the apple cider over medium heat until warm, adding ground cinnamon and whole cloves for flavor.
  2. Once heated, remove from the heat and stir in the bourbon and maple syrup.
  3. Pour the mixture into a heatproof glass or mug.
  4. Garnish with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick if desired.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of Bourbon Maple Cider!
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Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini

festive pumpkin spice martini

The Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini is a festive twist on the classic cocktail, combining the rich flavors of coffee, pumpkin, and warm spices, making it the perfect drink for autumn celebrations or cozy evenings. This delightful martini showcases a blend of espresso and pumpkin puree, finished with a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, creating a luxurious experience that warms the soul.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 2 oz
Pumpkin puree 1 oz
Espresso (cooled) 1 oz
Coffee liqueur 0.5 oz
Vanilla syrup 0.5 oz
Pumpkin pie spice 1/4 tsp
Whipped cream (for garnish) To taste
Ground cinnamon (for garnish) To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, pumpkin puree, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.
  2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
  4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive flavors of your Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini!

Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy

comforting vanilla chai cocktail

The Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy is a comforting and aromatic cocktail that perfectly marries the warm spices of chai tea with a soothing dose of whiskey, making it an ideal beverage for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. This delightful drink not only warms you up but also offers a delightful fusion of flavors, enhanced by a touch of honey and a splash of vanilla.

Ingredients Quantity
Water 1 cup
Chai tea bag 1
Whiskey 1.5 oz
Honey 1 tbsp
Vanilla extract 1/2 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tsp
Ground cinnamon (for garnish) To taste
Lemon slice (for garnish) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Boil one cup of water and steep the chai tea bag for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bag.
  2. In a heat-resistant glass, combine the brewed chai tea, whiskey, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
  3. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved.
  4. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a lemon slice.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy!

Honey Ginger Toddy

warm ginger honey cocktail

The Honey Ginger Toddy is a delightful twist on the classic hot toddy, offering a warming blend of honey, ginger, and your choice of spirit. This cocktail is perfect for cold winter nights or when you’re in need of a little soothing comfort. The gentle heat from fresh ginger complements the sweet honey and provides a perfect antidote to any chill.

Ingredients Quantity
Water 1 cup
Fresh ginger, sliced 1-inch piece
Honey 1 tbsp
Whiskey or rum 1.5 oz
Lemon juice 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg (for garnish) To taste
Lemon slice (for garnish) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Boil one cup of water in a small saucepan and add the sliced ginger, simmering for about 5 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and strain the ginger-infused water into a heat-resistant glass.
  3. Add honey, whiskey or rum, and lemon juice, stirring until the honey is dissolved.
  4. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg and a lemon slice.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy your soothing Honey Ginger Toddy!

Toasted Marshmallow Martini

toasted marshmallow dessert cocktail

The Toasted Marshmallow Martini is a whimsical and indulgent cocktail that combines the rich flavors of toasted marshmallows with the classic notes of a martini. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a playful dessert drink, this cocktail captures the essence of childhood campfire memories while providing a sophisticated twist. It’s a great choice for impressing guests or enjoying a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Marshmallows 4-6
Vodka 2 oz
Crème de Cacao (chocolate liqueur) 1 oz
Simple syrup 0.5 oz
Chocolate syrup (for garnish) Optional
Graham cracker crumbs (for rim) Optional
Skewers 1-2

Cooking Steps:

  1. Skewer the marshmallows and toast them over an open flame until golden and charred.
  2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, crème de cacao, simple syrup, and ice.
  3. Shake well until chilled and strain into a martini glass, optionally drizzling chocolate syrup inside the glass beforehand.
  4. Rim the glass with graham cracker crumbs if desired.
  5. Garnish with the toasted marshmallows on top and serve. Enjoy your Toasted Marshmallow Martini!

Cranberry Orange Hot Punch

festive cranberry orange punch

The Cranberry Orange Hot Punch is a festive and warm cocktail that captures the flavors of the holiday season. This delightful punch is not only delicious but also perfect for gatherings with friends and family. Combining the tartness of cranberry juice with the citrusy zing of orange, this punch is sure to add warmth to any occasion. Serve it in a punch bowl and let everyone help themselves for a cozy, communal cocktail experience.

Ingredients Quantity
Cranberry juice 4 cups
Fresh orange juice 2 cups
Water 2 cups
Sugar 1/2 cup
Cinnamon sticks 3-4
Whole cloves 5-6
Fresh orange slices For garnish
Fresh cranberries For garnish
Vodka or rum (optional) 1-2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, combine cranberry juice, fresh orange juice, water, and sugar.
  2. Add cinnamon sticks and whole cloves, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved.
  3. Let the punch simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. If desired, stir in vodka or rum for an extra kick.
  5. Strain the punch into a serving bowl or pitcher, discarding the spices, and garnish with fresh orange slices and cranberries before serving hot. Enjoy your Cranberry Orange Hot Punch!

Winter Berry Mulled Sangria

warm fruity holiday cocktail

Winter Berry Mulled Sangria is a warm and inviting twist on the classic sangria, perfect for chilly winter evenings. Bursting with the flavors of seasonal fruits and spices, this cozy cocktail is ideal for holiday parties or quiet nights by the fire. The combination of red wine and an array of berries creates a delightful blend that is both delicious and festive.

Ingredients Quantity
Red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) 1 bottle (750 ml)
Fresh cranberries 1 cup
Fresh raspberries 1 cup
Fresh blueberries 1 cup
Fresh orange slices 1 orange
Apple cider 2 cups
Sugar 1/4 cup
Whole cloves 4-5
Cinnamon sticks 2
Star anise (optional) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, apple cider, and sugar, then stir until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add fresh cranberries, raspberries, blueberries, orange slices, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks to the pot.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, allowing it to warm gently, but do not let it boil.
  4. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors together.
  5. Strain the sangria into mugs or heatproof glasses, discarding the spices and fruit solids, and serve hot. Enjoy your Winter Berry Mulled Sangria!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.