14 Hot Drinks That Make Any December Gathering Feel Cozy
When the weather gets colder, a hot drink is the perfect way to bring warmth into your home. These drinks create a sense of comfort and relaxation, making any December gathering feel more intimate. The aroma of spices or chocolate filling the room can set the mood for a cozy evening with loved ones. Hot drinks also give you a chance to slow down, unwind, and enjoy the company around you.
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Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink for December gatherings. Its rich, velvety texture and sweet taste make it a perfect companion for chilly nights. You can find pre-made mixes in stores, but making it from scratch gives you full control over flavor and creaminess. Adding marshmallows or whipped cream makes it even more indulgent. A classic treat for both kids and adults, it’s a comforting choice for any holiday occasion.
You’ll need 2 cups whole milk, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, one-fourth teaspoon vanilla extract, whipped cream or marshmallows (optional).
In a small saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, and sugar. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until the milk is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows for extra sweetness and enjoy!
Mulled Cider
Mulled cider brings the aroma of spices and apples into your home, making it perfect for festive gatherings. It’s easy to buy pre-made mulling spices or cider, but the homemade version will fill your home with a warm, welcoming fragrance. The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and orange creates a rich, comforting drink. This is an excellent choice for guests who prefer a non-alcoholic option. Serve it in a slow cooker to keep it warm all evening.
For this drink, you’ll need 4 cups apple cider, 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 cloves, 1 orange, sliced, 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Combine apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices in a pot or slow cooker. Heat over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse. Serve warm, with extra orange slices for garnish if desired.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Peppermint hot chocolate adds a refreshing twist to the classic drink, perfect for December gatherings. The combination of chocolate and mint creates a festive, cool-weather treat that everyone will love. You can buy peppermint syrup or make your own by infusing peppermint extract. Adding a candy cane as a stirrer enhances the holiday spirit. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for pairing with cookies.
You’ll need 2 cups whole milk, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon sugar, one-fourth teaspoon peppermint extract, crushed candy cane.
In a saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, and sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and hot. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract. Pour into a mug and top with crushed candy cane for a festive touch.
Spiced Hot Toddy
The hot toddy is a classic drink known for its warming, soothing qualities. Made with whiskey, honey, lemon, and spices, it’s perfect for winding down after a busy day. While it’s traditionally served as a remedy for colds, it also works wonderfully as a cozy drink for winter nights. You can easily adjust the amount of honey and whiskey based on personal preference. This drink brings a comforting warmth that feels like a hug in a mug.
You’ll need 1 one-half ounce of whiskey, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 cinnamon stick, hot water. Combine whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in a mug. Add a cinnamon stick and pour in hot water. Stir until the honey is dissolved and the drink is mixed well. Enjoy as a relaxing beverage on a cold evening.
Eggnog Latte
An eggnog latte blends the rich, creamy taste of eggnog with the strong, aromatic flavor of espresso, making it a perfect holiday drink. While many coffee shops offer this seasonal beverage, making it at home ensures it’s fresh and tailored to your tastes. The creamy texture of eggnog and the boldness of coffee make for a satisfying drink that feels cozy and festive. It’s a great option for both coffee lovers and eggnog enthusiasts. This drink adds a special touch to any December gathering.
You’ll need one-half cup eggnog, 1 shot espresso, one-fourth cup milk, ground nutmeg. Brew a shot of espresso and set aside. In a small saucepan, heat eggnog and milk over medium heat, whisking constantly until warm. Pour the espresso into a mug and top with the eggnog mixture. Sprinkle with ground nutmeg and enjoy!
Chai Latte
Chai lattes are the perfect blend of warm spices and creamy milk, making them a cozy treat for any winter gathering. You can purchase pre-made chai tea bags, but brewing your own chai mix brings out the full, aromatic flavor. The combination of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger gives this drink a sweet, spicy kick. It’s ideal for those who prefer something spiced but not too sweet. Serve it with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra holiday flair.
For this drink, you’ll need 1 chai tea bag or 1 tablespoon loose-leaf chai, 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon honey or sugar, cinnamon. Brew the chai tea by steeping the tea bag or loose-leaf chai in hot water for 5 minutes. In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until hot. Combine the brewed tea with the milk and stir in honey or sugar. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and serve.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot buttered rum is a classic winter drink that combines the rich flavors of butter, brown sugar, and rum, perfect for December nights. It’s easy to make from scratch, and its creamy, indulgent texture adds a touch of luxury to any gathering. While it can be bought pre-mixed, making it at home gives you control over the sweetness and spice levels. This drink is warming and has a slight richness, ideal for sipping slowly by the fire. It’s a drink that feels like a treat in every sip.
You’ll need 2 ounces dark rum, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, one-fourth teaspoon cinnamon, hot water.
In a mug, combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in dark rum, then fill the mug with hot water and stir until the butter is melted. Stir to mix all ingredients together and enjoy a rich, warming drink.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
Cinnamon hot chocolate combines the creamy richness of chocolate with the warmth of cinnamon. This drink is perfect for anyone who loves spiced beverages but still wants the sweetness of traditional hot cocoa. You can make this drink from scratch or buy pre-mixed versions at most stores. Adding a cinnamon stick as a stirrer allows the flavor to infuse more deeply into the drink. It’s the ideal option for a cozy night in with loved ones.
For this, you’ll need 2 cups whole milk, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon sugar, one-fourth teaspoon cinnamon, cinnamon stick (optional). In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium heat. Add cocoa powder, sugar, and cinnamon, whisking until fully dissolved. Once the mixture is warm, pour it into a mug and stir with a cinnamon stick for added flavor. Enjoy with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top if desired.
Gingerbread Latte
Gingerbread lattes bring the comforting flavors of gingerbread cookies into a drinkable form, perfect for the holidays. You can buy gingerbread syrup or make your own by combining cinnamon, ginger, and molasses. The drink pairs the spicy flavors of ginger and cinnamon with the smoothness of espresso and steamed milk. It’s a festive, cozy drink that will make your gathering feel extra special. This latte is ideal for anyone who loves sweet, spiced drinks.
You’ll need 1 shot espresso, one-half cup milk, 2 tablespoons gingerbread syrup or homemade ginger syrup, ground cinnamon (optional). Brew a shot of espresso and set aside. In a saucepan, heat milk until warm and frothy, then pour it into the mug with the espresso. Stir in the gingerbread syrup and top with ground cinnamon if desired. Enjoy this cozy, spiced drink with your favorite holiday treat.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Pumpkin spice lattes bring the comforting flavors of fall into your December gatherings. This drink combines espresso with the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. While many coffee shops offer it, making it at home allows you to adjust the spice levels to your liking. The creamy texture of milk pairs perfectly with the bold coffee and sweet pumpkin. It’s an ideal way to indulge while staying cozy on a cold evening.
Prepare 1 shot espresso, one-half cup milk, 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, one-fourth teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1 tablespoon sugar. Brew a shot of espresso and set aside. In a saucepan, heat milk and pumpkin puree over medium heat until hot, whisking to combine. Stir in pumpkin pie spice and sugar. Pour the mixture over the espresso and top with whipped cream if desired.
Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon and Chili
This spicy twist on classic hot chocolate adds a touch of warmth and heat, perfect for holiday gatherings. The richness of chocolate combined with cinnamon and chili creates a unique and exciting flavor profile. It can easily be made at home with a few simple ingredients or bought pre-mixed. The hint of chili offers a subtle kick, warming you up from the inside. This hot chocolate is a bold choice for guests who love a little spice.
2 cups milk, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, one-fourth teaspoon cinnamon, pinch of chili powder, 1 tablespoon sugar are what you need. In a small saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, cinnamon, chili powder, and sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and hot. Pour into a mug and serve immediately, topped with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. The chili adds warmth without overpowering the chocolate.
Cafe Mocha
A cafe mocha combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the smooth, bold taste of coffee. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy both a little caffeine and something sweet. You can easily make it at home by combining espresso, milk, and chocolate syrup. If you want extra sweetness, you can adjust the chocolate to your liking. This drink adds a festive touch to any gathering.
You’ll need 1 shot of espresso, one-half cup milk, 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup, whipped cream (optional). Brew a shot of espresso and set aside. In a saucepan, heat milk until warm and frothy. Stir in chocolate syrup and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture over the espresso and top with whipped cream if desired.
Cinnamon Vanilla Latte
This simple yet flavorful drink combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of vanilla, making it perfect for December gatherings. It’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients, and the combination of flavors will fill your home with warmth. You can adjust the sweetness and spice to suit your taste. The smooth espresso provides the perfect base for this cozy beverage. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys a comforting, flavorful drink.
For this drink, prepare 1 shot espresso, one-half cup milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup, one-fourth teaspoon cinnamon. Brew a shot of espresso and set aside. In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm and frothy. Stir in vanilla syrup and cinnamon. Pour the milk mixture over the espresso and enjoy.
Hot Spiced Wine
Hot spiced wine is a warm, aromatic drink that adds a festive touch to any gathering. It’s perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere with its combination of red wine, spices, and citrus. You can make it at home by combining wine, cinnamon, cloves, and orange. The spices bring out the natural sweetness of the wine, creating a drink that’s both comforting and indulgent. This drink is ideal for gatherings that call for something a little stronger.
You’ll need 1 bottle red wine, 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 cloves, 1 orange, sliced, one-fourth cup honey. In a pot, combine red wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices. Heat over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Sweeten with honey to taste and serve warm.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.