5 Hot Winter Drinks

Some days, motherhood feels like running a marathon in fuzzy slippers while juggling cranberry sauce, pumpkin pies, and a toddler who insists that socks are optional. Thanksgiving can feel like this on steroids – the pressure to get the turkey just right, the table Instagram-ready, and somehow also survive your family’s endless chatter. That’s why I’ve compiled my top Hot Winter Drinks that pair beautifully with the chaos and joy of the season. Each recipe brings a little warmth, a lot of flavor, and the kind of comfort that makes you exhale long enough to think, “I got this, even if I’m covered in frosting.”

From spirited cocktails to cozy non-alcoholic drinks, these five Hot Winter Drinks are perfect for sipping while waiting for the turkey to roast or while sneaking a moment of quiet after bedtime. They’re approachable, festive, and just the thing to keep your sanity intact this holiday season.

Candy Cane Mojito Recipe

The peppermint season is officially upon us, and there’s nothing like a Candy Cane Mojito Recipe to make you feel festive without leaving the kitchen. As I stirred this together last week, my middle child was sneaking candy canes like it was a heist movie, and I realized this drink is basically a liquid holiday hug. These Hot Winter Drinks aren’t just for decoration – they are sassy, minty, and perfect for moms who need a moment of cheer.

Ingredients

• 2 oz white rum
  
• 1 oz simple syrup
  
• 1/2 oz lime juice
  
• Fresh mint leaves
  
• Crushed ice
  
• Candy cane for garnish
  
• Club soda
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker
  
• Muddler
  
• Jigger or measuring spoons
  
• Highball glass
  
• Spoon
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Muddle mint and syrup, gently bruising the mint in the shaker with simple syrup to release its aroma.

Step 2:

Add rum and lime juice, pour over crushed ice, and shake lightly to mix.

Step 3:

Pour into glass, add more ice if needed.

Step 4:

Top with club soda, stir gently, and garnish with a candy cane.

What to Serve With

This festive Candy Cane Mojito Recipe pairs wonderfully with Lobster Nachos, Caroot Fries, and a sweet Apple Crumble Dessert for a balance of savory and sweet.

Mom-Style Tips

• Swap club soda for sparkling water if you want a lighter version.
  
• Make it non-alcoholic by skipping the rum and adding extra soda and a splash of cranberry juice.
  

Cranberry Thyme Margarita

I love a cocktail that feels fancy without requiring a bartender degree. My Cranberry Thyme Margarita is one of those Hot Winter Drinks that turns a cold night into something cozy and memorable. While making it last weekend, my dog tried to “help” by spilling a lime, reminding me that this drink is perfect for surviving Thanksgiving prep chaos.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila
  
• 2 oz cranberry juice
  
• 1 oz lime juice
  
• 1 oz simple syrup
  
• Fresh thyme
  
• Ice
  
• Cranberries for garnish
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker
  
• Strainer
  
• Jigger
  
• Highball glass
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Rim the glass, optional: dip in lime juice and sugar.

Step 2:

Combine tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and a sprig of thyme in shaker with ice.

Step 3:

Shake vigorously, until chilled.

Step 4:

Strain into glass filled with ice.

Step 5:

Garnish with thyme and cranberries.

What to Serve With

Serve this Cranberry Thyme Margarita alongside Classic Roast Turkey, Lobster Nachos, or Korean Chicken And Waffles for a vibrant, festive meal pairing.

Mom-Style Tips

• Use pre-made cranberry juice if you’re short on time.
  
• For a non-alcoholic version, skip tequila and add sparkling water for a fun, kid-friendly holiday sip.
  

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

Some mornings call for chocolate, peppermint, and caffeine in one cup. My Starbucks Peppermint Mocha recreation is a lifesaver on early Thanksgiving mornings when kids are still sugar-hyped from the sugar cookies. This is one of my favorite Hot Winter Drinks to make at home because it feels indulgent, looks festive, and lets me skip the drive-thru line.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
  
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  
• 1–2 tbsp sugar
  
• 1 oz espresso or strong coffee
  
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
  
• Whipped cream
  
• Crushed candy cane
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
  
• Whisk
  
• Mug
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the milk gently in a saucepan.

Step 2:

Whisk in cocoa and sugar, until smooth.

Step 3:

Add espresso and peppermint extract, stir to combine.

Step 4:

Pour into mug, top with whipped cream and candy cane.

What to Serve With

This Starbucks Peppermint Mocha tastes amazing with Maple Pudding Cups, Apple Cinnamon Donuts, or Caramel Apple Cheesecakes for a decadent holiday treat.

Mom-Style Tips

• Make a Healthy Peppermint Mocha by using almond milk and less sugar.
  
• Double the batch and keep in a thermos for sipping while prepping the rest of Thanksgiving dinner.
  

Hommade Hot Cocoa Recipe

Sometimes, you just need a mug of hot chocolate to survive a holiday frenzy. My Hommade Hot Cocoa Recipe is a non-negotiable Hot Winter Drinks classic, perfect for kids, adults, and anyone who appreciates a rich chocolate hug in a mug. It’s cozy, simple, and exactly what I reach for while hiding from the chaos in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
  
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  
• 2 tbsp sugar
  
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  
• Pinch of salt
  
• Whipped cream or marshmallows
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
  
• Whisk
  
• Mug
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Warm milk in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2:

Add cocoa, sugar, salt, whisk until smooth.

Step 3:

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4:

Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

What to Serve With

This hot cocoa pairs perfectly with Caramel Apple Cheesecakes, Mini Pumpkin Pies, or Apple Cinnamon Donuts for a sweet, cozy holiday combo.

Mom-Style Tips

• Use any milk alternative if you prefer.
  
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for an adult twist.
  

Mulled Wine

Nothing says holiday comfort like a warm glass of mulled wine. My Mulled Wine recipe is one of the most comforting Hot Winter Drinks you can make when the house is full of relatives, and someone inevitably burns the stuffing. It smells like Christmas before you even take a sip and tastes like festive magic in every sip.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine
  
• 1/4 cup sugar
  
• 1 orange, sliced
  
• 3–4 cloves
  
• 2 cinnamon sticks
  
• 1 star anise
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Saucepan or slow cooker
  
• Wooden spoon
  
• Mug
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine wine, sugar, and spices in saucepan.

Step 2:

Add orange slices and heat gently, do not boil.

Step 3:

Simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Step 4:

Strain and serve warm in mugs.

What to Serve With

Serve this warm mulled wine alongside Copykat Wingstop Brownie,Mini Pumpkin Pies, or Mini Triffles for a perfect holiday dessert pairing.

Mom-Style Tips

• Make it in a slow cooker for hands-free prep.
  
• Adjust sugar depending on sweetness of wine.
  

Wrapping It Up

Between the chaos of Thanksgiving prep, the sticky fingers, the overcooked sides, and the laughter, these five Hot Winter Drinks bring warmth, flavor, and a little mom magic to the table. Whether you’re sneaking a quiet moment, entertaining guests, or just need a festive pick-me-up, they’re comforting, easy to make, and perfectly paired with both sweet and savory holiday treats. Keep the mugs full, the drinks cozy, and remember that surviving the season is a little sweeter with a warm glass in your hand.