Santa’s Little Helper: Boozy Hot Chocolate and Other Cozy Winter Drinks

When winter’s chill descends, few pleasures compare to wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of a well-crafted, boozy hot drink. This season, elevate your winter gatherings with indulgent recipes featuring rum, whiskey, or brandy. Each recipe balances warmth and richness, creating cozy cocktails that feel like a luxurious escape.

Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar (or to taste)

• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/8 tsp nutmeg

• 2 oz dark spiced rum

• Whipped cream and grated chocolate for garnish

Method:

1. In a saucepan, heat milk and cream over medium heat until warm.

2. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.

3. Add chopped chocolate and stir until melted and combined.

4. Remove from heat, pour in rum, and stir gently.

5. Serve in mugs, topping with whipped cream and grated chocolate.

Whiskey Maple Chai Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chai tea, brewed strong

• 1 cup whole milk (or oat milk for a dairy-free option)

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey

• Dash of ground cardamom

• Cinnamon stick and star anise for garnish

Method:

1. Brew a strong cup of chai tea and set aside.

2. In a saucepan, heat milk and maple syrup, whisking until frothy.

3. Combine tea, whiskey, and milk mixture in a mug.

4. Sprinkle with cardamom and garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise.

Brandy Orange Toddy

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice

• 1 cup hot water

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 oz brandy

• 1 slice of orange and a clove-studded orange peel for garnish

Method:

1. Mix orange juice, honey, and hot water in a mug until honey dissolves.

2. Stir in brandy.

3. Garnish with an orange slice and clove-studded peel.

Where to Enjoy More
For those looking to explore more mixology experiences, Art of the Cocktail classes in New York City offer an ideal setting. Led by expert mixologists, these sessions guide you through mastering sophisticated cocktails, all while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. After the class, head to Sweetbriar Restaurant, both renowned for their elevated yet approachable ambiance and seasonally inspired menus​​​.

This winter, let these recipes warm your evenings and spark new memories, one indulgent sip at a time.