4 Winter Inspired Cocktails
Despite being bundled up in layers of cozy knitwear, sometimes, it really is what’s on the inside that counts. Namely, a lip-smacking winter cocktail that will thaw you out in no time.
Sure, you can sip a martini any time of year, but there’s something particularly pleasurable about a cocktail designed for the colder months. We’re talking warm, cinnamon varieties and deep flavours like allspice and whiskey.
A far cry from spicy mulled wine and spiked hot chocolate, we’ve rounded up 4 cocktails that you may not have heard of before. Think a minty take on the James Bond classic and a brandy-infused Pimms concoction, this drink list proves that having a total meltdown isn’t always a bad thing.
Winter, we’ve gotta say, it’s not all so bad after all. Plus: you can pick up all of the supplies you need at Aldi, Woolworths, Coles, Dan Murphy’s and Liquorland
1. Peppermint Martini
Simple but effective, this refreshing Peppermint Martini only contains 3 ingredients and despite being on the sweet side, still has just as much of a kick as the classic.
What you’ll need:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 tsp Peppermint Schnapps
- Peppermint lollies
Method:
- Step 1: Mix the vodka and peppermint schnapps with the ice into a shaker.
- Step 2: Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Step 3: Crush up the peppermint lollies and use them to garnish the rim of the glass.
2. Hot Toddy
There’s no better way to warm up than with a hot toddy. The combination of whisky, honey, lemon, cinnamon and cloves really packs a punch and is great for entertaining guests in winter. A fireplace is optional but highly recommended.
What you’ll need:
- 50ml whisky
- 3 tsp honey
- 1 cinnamon stick, snapped in half
- 1 lemon, half juiced and half sliced
- 2 cloves
Method:
- Step 1: Whisk the whisky and honey together and split between 2 heatproof glasses. Add half of the cinnamon stick to each, then top up with 200ml boiling water.
- Step 2: Add a splash of lemon juice to each, then taste and add more to your preference. Finish each with a slice of lemon, studded with a clove, and serve immediately.
3. Winter Pimms Punch
Pimms isn’t just for summer, just add some brandy and you have yourself a delicious winter treat. Super easy to make at home, this recipe shakes up the classic by switching out strawberries for cinnamon sticks and adding a splash of apple juice instead of lemonade. Here’s how to recreate it at home.
What you’ll need:
- 500ml Pimm's
- 500ml brandy
- 1½ l apple juice
- ice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- apple, sliced
- orange, sliced
Method:
- Step 1: Combine the Pimm’s and brandy with the apple juice in a jug filled with ice.
- Step 2: Add in the cinnamon sticks, sliced apple and orange.
4. Spiked Cinnamon Chai Lattes
This comforting drink will warm you up on a chilly day, or when you're halfway down a ski slope. An even sweeter alternative to a traditional Irish Coffee or Espresso Martini, it’s best for those who aren’t counting their sugar intake. Luckily enough though, you’ve still got a few months until beach season.
What you’ll need:
- 2 tbs powdered sugar
- 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 3 oz hot coffee
- 2 oz chocolate vodka
- 1 oz Kahlua
- 1 oz Baileys
- Splash of milk
- Optional: Whipped cream for serving
Method:
- Step 1: In your favourite coffee mug, mix the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and chilli powder.
- Step 2: Add in the hot coffee, vodka, Kahlua, and Baileys until dissolved. Stir in milk.
- Step 3: Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Cut through the winter chills now by heading down to Top Ryde City and stocking up on ingredients to make 1 (or all 4!) of these delicious winter-inspired cocktails. Don’t forget to share your newest cocktails online and tag us, we can’t wait to see what you create.