15 Hot Cocktails for Sleigh Rides

cozy holiday drink recipes

Spiked Hot Chocolate

cozy spiked hot chocolate

Spiked hot chocolate is the perfect cozy drink for warming you up on a chilly sleigh ride. This deliciously decadent cocktail combines rich, velvety chocolate with the warmth of your favorite spirit, making it an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or a festive outing in the snow. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting beverage that offers a delightful twist on the classic hot chocolate.

Ingredients Quantity
Milk 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Cocoa powder 1/2 cup
Sugar 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Chocolate chips 1 cup
Your choice of liquor (e.g., rum, whiskey) 1/2 cup
Whipped cream For topping
Marshmallows For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, whisking continuously until smooth and heated through.
  2. Once hot, stir in the chocolate chips until melted and fully incorporated.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in your choice of liquor.
  4. Pour the spiked hot chocolate into mugs, and top with whipped cream and marshmallows as desired. Enjoy your cozy drink on a sleigh ride!
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Mulled Wine

warm spiced red wine

Mulled wine is a warm, spiced red wine cocktail that is perfect for enjoying on a chilly sleigh ride. This fragrant beverage combines red wine with festive spices and fruits, creating a delightful and aromatic drink that adds a touch of holiday cheer to your outdoor adventures. With its warming properties and intoxicating aromas, mulled wine is an excellent choice for creating cozy memories in the snow.

Ingredients Quantity
Red wine 1 bottle (750ml)
Orange 1, sliced
Lemon 1, sliced
Cinnamon sticks 2
Star anise 2
Whole cloves 5-6
Honey or sugar 1/4 cup
Nutmeg (optional) A pinch
Water 1 cup

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and honey/sugar.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it is warm (do not boil).
  3. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Strain the mulled wine into mugs, discarding the solid spices and fruit.
  5. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired, and enjoy your warm mulled wine on a sleigh ride!
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Irish Coffee

warm cocktail for winter energization

Irish Coffee is a classic warm cocktail that combines rich coffee, smooth Irish whiskey, sweet sugar, and a luscious layer of whipped cream. It’s a perfect drink to savor during a cozy sleigh ride, offering a comforting blend of warmth and flavor that stimulates the senses while providing a delightful caffeine boost to keep you energized for your winter adventures.

Ingredients Quantity
Freshly brewed coffee 1 cup
Irish whiskey 1.5 oz
Brown sugar 1-2 tsp
Heavy cream 1/2 cup (lightly whipped)
Cocoa powder (optional) For garnish

Instructions:

  1. Brew a cup of strong coffee and pour it into a heat-resistant glass or mug.
  2. Add the brown sugar to the hot coffee and stir until fully dissolved.
  3. Pour in the Irish whiskey and mix gently.
  4. Carefully spoon the lightly whipped cream on top to float above the coffee.
  5. Optionally, sprinkle cocoa powder on the cream for an extra touch of flavor.
  6. Enjoy your Irish Coffee while taking in the beautiful winter scenery on your sleigh ride!
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Hot Toddy

warm whiskey citrus cocktail

A Hot Toddy is a warm, soothing cocktail that’s ideal for keeping cozy during a winter sleigh ride. This classic drink combines hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus that envelops you in warmth. Perfect for combating the chill in the air, a Hot Toddy is not only comforting but also offers a touch of relaxation after an adventurous day outdoors.

Ingredients Quantity
Whiskey 2 oz
Hot water 1 cup
Honey 1-2 tsp
Fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz
Lemon slice 1 (for garnish)
Cinnamon stick 1 (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a heat-resistant mug, combine the whiskey and honey.
  2. Pour in the hot water and stir until the honey is dissolved.
  3. Add fresh lemon juice to the mixture and stir gently.
  4. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick if desired.
  5. Sip slowly and enjoy the warmth while taking in your surroundings on the sleigh ride!
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Spiced Apple Cider

cozy spiced apple cider

Spiced Apple Cider is a warm, aromatic drink that perfectly captures the essence of fall and winter, making it an excellent choice for a cozy sleigh ride. This comforting beverage combines fresh apple cider with a blend of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Not only does it offer a deliciously sweet and spiced flavor, but it also fills the air with a wonderful fragrance, setting a festive mood for the ride.

Ingredients Quantity
Apple cider 4 cups
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp
Whole cloves 5-6 whole
Brown sugar (optional) 2 tbsp
Orange slices 2 (for garnish)
Cinnamon sticks 2 (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, combine the apple cider, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and whole cloves.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  3. If desired, add brown sugar for extra sweetness and stir until dissolved.
  4. Let the cider simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the cider.
  5. Strain the cider to remove the spices, then pour it into mugs.
  6. Garnish with orange slices and cinnamon sticks before serving. Enjoy the warmth and flavor during your sleigh ride!
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Bourbon Caramel Apple Hot Chocolate

decadent winter hot chocolate

Bourbon Caramel Apple Hot Chocolate is a decadent and cozy drink that combines rich chocolate and smooth bourbon with the comforting flavors of apple and caramel. This indulgent concoction is perfect for sipping while wrapped in a blanket during a sleigh ride through snowy landscapes. With its creamy texture and warm flavors, it promises to elevate your winter experience.

Ingredients Quantity
Milk 2 cups
Dark chocolate chips 1 cup
Caramel sauce 1/4 cup
Bourbon 1/4 cup
Apple cider 1 cup
Ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp
Whipped cream For topping
Extra caramel sauce For drizzling
Apple slices For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
  2. Add the dark chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
  3. Stir in the caramel sauce, bourbon, apple cider, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
  4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  5. Garnish with apple slices before serving. Enjoy while cozying up on your sleigh ride!
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Peppermint White Russian

festive peppermint white russian

Peppermint White Russian is a festive twist on the classic White Russian cocktail, perfect for winter celebrations or cozy sleigh rides. This creamy and minty drink combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream, infused with peppermint for a invigorating kick. It’s a delightful way to warm up while enjoying the winter scenery.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 1 oz
Coffee liqueur 1 oz
Heavy cream 1 oz
Peppermint extract 1/4 tsp
Crushed peppermint candies For garnish
Ice For serving

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, heavy cream, and peppermint extract with ice.
  2. Shake gently until well mixed and chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  4. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies on top.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive flavors while sipping on your sleigh ride!
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Cinnamon Honey Bourbon

warm spiced bourbon cocktail

Cinnamon Honey Bourbon is a warm, comforting cocktail that embodies the essence of winter with its spiced flavors and sweet undertones. Combining the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of honey and the warm spice of cinnamon, this drink is perfect for sipping while wrapped in a blanket during a sleigh ride. It’s an ideal way to enhance the festive spirit while enjoying the beautiful winter landscape.

Ingredients Quantity
Bourbon 2 oz
Honey 1 tbsp
Cinnamon stick 1
Hot water 4 oz
Fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz
Lemon wheel For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a heatproof glass, combine the bourbon, honey, and lemon juice.
  2. Add a cinnamon stick and pour hot water over the mixture, stirring to dissolve the honey.
  3. Garnish with a lemon wheel on the rim.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors during your sleigh ride!
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Gingerbread Martini

festive spiced holiday cocktail

The Gingerbread Martini is a delightful seasonal cocktail that captures the essence of holiday spirit with its warm spiced flavors reminiscent of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. This festive drink combines vodka with the sweetness of gingerbread syrup and warm spices, making it a perfect choice for toasting during cozy winter gatherings or while enjoying a sleigh ride through the snowy landscape.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 2 oz
Gingerbread syrup 1 oz
Bailey’s Irish Cream 1 oz
Ground cinnamon Pinch
Crushed graham crackers For rimming
Whipped cream For garnish
Ground nutmeg Pinch

Instructions:

  1. Rim a martini glass with crushed graham crackers and set aside.
  2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, gingerbread syrup, Bailey’s Irish Cream, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
  3. Shake well until chilled, then strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
  4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and an optional sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
  5. Serve and enjoy your cozy Gingerbread Martini!
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Chai Hot Toddy

cozy spiced whiskey cocktail

The Chai Hot Toddy is a warm, comforting cocktail perfect for winter evenings and festive sleigh rides. Infused with aromatic chai spices and paired with whiskey, this drink brings both warmth and flavor, making it an ideal choice for cozy gatherings or a relaxing night by the fire. The blend of spices not only delights the taste buds but also offers a soothing sensation on chilly nights.

Ingredients Quantity
Chai tea 1 cup
Whiskey 2 oz
Honey 1 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz
Ground cinnamon Pinch
Star anise 1 (optional)
Cinnamon stick For garnish
Lemon slice For garnish

Instructions:

  1. Steep the chai tea in hot water for 5-7 minutes, then remove the tea bag.
  2. In a heatproof mug, combine the hot chai tea with whiskey, honey, and fresh lemon juice.
  3. Stir well to mix the ingredients and dissolve the honey.
  4. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and stir again.
  5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon slice (and optional star anise).
  6. Serve hot and enjoy your Chai Hot Toddy!

Maple Cinnamon Hot Buttered Rum

warm spiced winter cocktail

Maple Cinnamon Hot Buttered Rum is a delectable winter cocktail that combines the rich flavors of dark rum with creamy butter, sweet maple syrup, and warm spices. This indulgent drink is perfect for sipping after a day out in the snow or during a cozy night by the fireplace, making it an excellent choice for sleigh rides in the chilly air.

Ingredients Quantity
Dark rum 2 oz
Unsalted butter 1 tbsp
Maple syrup 1 tbsp
Ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp
Hot water 6 oz
Vanilla extract 1/4 tsp
Whipped cream For garnish
Cinnamon stick For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the unsalted butter with maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  2. Heat water until hot, then pour it into a heatproof mug.
  3. Add the dark rum and the butter-maple mixture to the mug, stirring well to combine.
  4. Top with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy your Maple Cinnamon Hot Buttered Rum!

Nutella Hot Chocolate

nutella infused winter beverage delight

Nutella Hot Chocolate is a rich and indulgent winter drink that combines luxurious chocolate with the irresistible flavor of Nutella. This creamy and velvety concoction is perfect for warming up after a brisk sleigh ride or for enjoying during a cozy evening indoors. With its delightful hazelnut undertone, Nutella Hot Chocolate is sure to become a favorite among winter cocktails.

Ingredients Quantity
Milk 2 cups
Nutella 1/2 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tbsp
Sugar 2 tbsp
Vanilla extract 1/2 tsp
Whipped cream For garnish
Chocolate shavings For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling.
  2. Stir in the Nutella, cocoa powder, and sugar, continuing to stir until everything is melted and well combined.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
  4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy your Nutella Hot Chocolate!

Warm Chocolate Mint Cocktail

festive chocolate mint cocktail

Warm Chocolate Mint Cocktail is a delightful and festive drink that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the invigorating taste of mint, making it the perfect warm cocktail for the holiday season. This cocktail is not only indulgent but also embodies the essence of winter celebrations, creating a cozy drink to enjoy after a sleigh ride or while gathered around the fireplace.

Ingredients Quantity
Milk 1 cup
Dark chocolate 4 oz
Peppermint schnapps 1 oz
Heavy cream 1/4 cup
Sugar 2 tbsp
Vanilla extract 1/4 tsp
Crushed candy canes For garnish
Whipped cream For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
  2. Add the dark chocolate, stirring until it melts and combines with the milk.
  3. Stir in the peppermint schnapps, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully blended.
  4. Pour the mixture into glasses and top with whipped cream.
  5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for garnish.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy your Warm Chocolate Mint Cocktail!

Spiced Cranberry Punch

festive warm cranberry cocktail

Spiced Cranberry Punch is a vibrant and festive warm cocktail perfect for holiday gatherings and sleigh rides. This delightful punch combines the tartness of cranberry juice with warming spices and a splash of citrus, making it a revitalizing yet cozy drink that will keep you feeling merry throughout the winter season.

Ingredients Quantity
Cranberry juice 4 cups
Water 2 cups
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp
Whole cloves 5
Star anise 1
Fresh orange slices For garnish
Fresh cranberries For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, combine cranberry juice, water, and brown sugar over medium heat.
  2. Stir in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, whole cloves, and star anise.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it steep for 20 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and strain out spices.
  5. Serve warm in mugs garnished with fresh orange slices and cranberries.
  6. Enjoy your Spiced Cranberry Punch during your sleigh ride!

Hot Buttered Apple Cider

cozy warm apple cocktail

Hot Buttered Apple Cider is a comforting and indulgent warm cocktail that’s perfect for sipping during a cozy sleigh ride. This rich and flavorful drink combines the sweetness of apple cider with the decadence of butter and warming spices, offering a delightful way to combat the chill of winter while celebrating the festive season.

Ingredients Quantity
Apple cider 4 cups
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Whole cloves 4
Whipped cream (optional) For topping
Cinnamon sticks (for garnish) 2

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, cloves, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Once the apple cider is warmed, remove cloves and stir in the butter mixture until melted and mixed well.
  4. Serve warm in mugs, topped with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
  5. Enjoy your Hot Buttered Apple Cider on your sleigh ride!

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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.