Bring Warmth to Winter Evenings with Specialty Cocktails
Winter evenings call for gatherings under the stars with a warm drink in hand. At Table and Court, we’ve curated a selection of cozy winter cocktails, perfect for your next outdoor event. Each recipe includes precise measurements and recommended bar tools to ensure your drinks are as delightful as the company you keep.
Setting the Scene for Your Winter Wonderland
Creating the right ambiance is key. Imagine soft lighting, a crackling fire, and the clink of glasses as you share stories and laughter. With the right setup and our handpicked cocktails, your outdoor space will transform into a magical winter haven.
Essential Bar Tools for Perfect Cocktails
To craft these winter wonders, you’ll need a few bar essentials: a cocktail shaker, a measuring jigger, a strainer, a bar spoon, and glassware that complements each drink. Now, let’s unveil the cocktails that will light up your winter nights.
Recipes for Cozy Winter Cocktails:
1. Classic Hot Toddy
Ingredients: 60ml whiskey, 15ml honey, 15ml lemon juice, 1 cup hot water, cinnamon stick, lemon slice, cloves.Tools: Heatproof glass, spoon.Method: Combine whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in a heatproof glass. Top with hot water, stir, and garnish with a lemon slice, cloves, and a cinnamon stick.
2. Peppermint Hot Chocolate with a Twist
Ingredients: 150ml hot chocolate, 45ml peppermint schnapps, whipped cream, crushed peppermint candy.Tools: Heatproof mug, spoon.Method: Prepare hot chocolate, add peppermint schnapps, and stir. Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy.
3. Mulled Wine Magic
Ingredients: 750ml red wine, 60ml brandy, 1 orange (sliced), 1/4 cup honey, 8 cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks, 2 star anise.Tools: Large pot, ladle, mugs.Method: Combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Serve warm in mugs.
4. Spiced Rum Cider
Ingredients: 150ml apple cider, 45ml spiced rum, 1 tbsp brown sugar, cinnamon stick, apple slice, lemon slice.Tools: Saucepan, heatproof glass, spoon.Method: Heat cider with brown sugar until warm. Pour in spiced rum and stir. Garnish with apple and lemon slices and a cinnamon stick.
5. Winter Bourbon Smash
Ingredients: 60ml bourbon, 1/2 a lemon (cut in wedges), 2 tsp sugar, 2-3 fresh mint leaves, crushed ice.Tools: Shaker, muddler, strainer, rocks glass.Method: Muddle lemon wedges, sugar, and mint in a shaker. Add bourbon and ice, shake well, and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
6. Gingerbread Martini
Ingredients: 45ml vodka, 45ml Irish cream, 45ml coffee liqueur, 15ml gingerbread syrup, gingerbread cookie for garnish.Tools: Shaker, strainer, martini glass.Method: Combine all liquids in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a gingerbread cookie.
7. Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
Ingredients: 45ml apple brandy, 15ml caramel syrup, 200ml hot apple cider, whipped cream, a pinch of ground cinnamon, apple slice for garnish.Tools: Heatproof mug, spoon.Method: In a heatproof mug, combine apple brandy and caramel syrup. Fill the mug with hot apple cider and stir well. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and an apple slice for garnish.
8. Vanilla Chai White Russian
Ingredients: 45ml vodka, 30ml coffee liqueur, 60ml vanilla chai tea (cooled), 30ml heavy cream, cinnamon stick for garnish.Tools: Shaker, strainer, rocks glass.Method: In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and vanilla chai tea. Shake well. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Gently pour heavy cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the drink. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Tips for Hosting a Winter Cocktail Party
Ensure your winter cocktail party is a hit with these tips:
- Keep It Warm: Use insulated cups for hot drinks and offer blankets to keep your guests cozy.
- Prep Ahead: Have ingredients measured and ready for easy cocktail assembly.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Offer hot cider or cocoa for those preferring non-alcoholic beverages.
With these winter cocktail recipes in hand, your outdoor gatherings are sure to be a hit, filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious drinks. Cheers to a season of unforgettable memories!
