I feel for the folks in the Northeast who have suffered with this bone chilling weather; we had a few days of -15 weather in Colorado a couple of weeks ago and that’s a cold that goes beyond cold and reaches into the realm of painful. When even the dogs that always like to wander around the yard a bit hurry and do their business to get back inside before their little paws freeze. It’s a time when soup becomes one of the few things that can help us warm from the inside out and the idea of a cold cocktail results in an additional shiver.
So, I’ve got some solutions for this Friday Cocktail (or make without the booze for your Friday Mocktail!). Whether you think you’re freezing to death or are lucky enough to live in a place where winter is simply a bit chillier in the evening, these Warm Cocktails for the Big Chill are my favorites when the weather is frigid. From holding a warm mug in your hands to the hint of warmth from the adult beverage that’s included; I’m sure you’ll find one of these to your liking. Settle in tonight and enjoy one of these and I know the Polar Vortex will be put at bay!
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Tequila
This first cocktail really came about because of Starbucks. I will never forget the first time I tried their Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. I had ordered coffee and my daughter ordered the hot chocolate; I took one sip and I was hooked. I still enjoy one occasionally with a shot of espresso and so it was not that big a leap of faith to try it with tequila. Tequila in warm drinks is magical; it adds another element of warmth you really have to try to understand. It’s not just for margaritas anymore!
Hot Chocolate with Coconut Rum, Toasted Coconut and Homemade Chocolate Drizzle
I made this cocktail for a holiday get together. I used a Mounds Bar for inspiration. Enough said? I love taking a childhood treat and transitioning it into an adult beverage; what can I say. Guess Heath Bar something or another is in order soon isn’t it? In the meantime, indulge in this. Warm, boozy and childhood memories all wrapped up in one nice little package.
Mexican Hot Chocolate with Tequila and Cayenne Pepper
Another variation on a theme…this hot chocolate combines cinnamon, tequila and some cayenne pepper to ward off the chill. Vortex Schmortex.
Hot Buttered Rum
OK, true confession time. This is completely and totally decadent. I know it is not the standard bar version of Hot Buttered Rum; it’s infinitely better. So rich with the flavors of vanilla, butter and rum…you’ll forget your toes are freezing! The batter makes enough to keep in the fridge for emergencies and I think this Vortex thing qualifies, don’t you?
Mexican Coffee with Chocolate and Tequila
Honestly, if we could wouldn’t we all just skip on down to Cabo San Lucas about now? Not possible? Then try this cocktail from there. Coffee is combined with Kahlua, cinnamon and Tequila and it will warm you to the bone. If you’re braver than me, go for the flames but I’m a chicken and the cocktail alone is worthy. And safer. And so good.
Bundle up when you’re going out but make sure you buy the ingredients for one of these cocktails first. Seriously, you need one. I know I do!
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