You’ll find 13 warm, easy hot drink recipes that suit quiet nights and holiday get-togethers. Follow simple steps to make classics like hot chocolate and spiced apple cider, plus twists like peppermint mocha, maple chai, and toasted coconut hot chocolate. Each recipe lists basic ingredients, quick methods, and small tips for serving or tweaking flavors, so you can pick one and get started—keep going to find a favorite for tonight.
Classic Hot Chocolate
Rich, cozy classic hot chocolate to warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings
How to Make:
- Pour the milk into a small saucepan and warm over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate and stir constantly until melted and the mixture is glossy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolate intensity as desired.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or chocolate shavings if you like.
Enjoy every delicious, velvety sip!
Spiced Apple Cider
Warm up your holidays with a cozy mug of spiced apple cider that smells like the season.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups (2 liters) apple cider or unfiltered apple juice
- 1 large orange, sliced
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 3 whole allspice berries (or 1/4 tsp ground allspice)
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced (optional)
- Cinnamon sticks and orange slices, for serving
How to Make:
- Pour the apple cider into a large saucepan or pot.
- Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, star anise (if using), and ginger.
- Stir in the brown sugar or maple syrup and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and let the cider simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, removing any whole spices if the flavor is strong.
- Strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or directly into mugs.
- Ladle into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice.
Sip slowly and enjoy the warm, spiced comfort of the season!
Eggnog Latte
Creamy, spiced eggnog meets espresso for a cozy holiday pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind; whole, oat, almond)
- 1 shot (1–1.5 oz) freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Sweetener to taste (sugar, maple syrup, or simple syrup; optional)
How to Make:
- Warm the eggnog and milk together in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon; taste and add sweetener if you like it sweeter.
- Brew a shot of espresso or a small strong cup of coffee.
- Pour the espresso into a mug, then ladle the hot eggnog mixture over the coffee.
- If you want a frothier top, whisk vigorously or use a milk frother for a few seconds before pouring.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a light dusting of nutmeg.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy, festive flavors.
Cheers to a warm, festive sip!
Peppermint Mocha
Peppermint Mocha — a cozy, minty-chocolate pick-me-up for chilly days.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or 1 shot (1–2 oz) espresso
- 1 cup milk (any kind: whole, skim, oat, almond)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder or 1–2 oz chocolate syrup
- 2 tsp sugar (adjust to taste) or 1 tbsp simple syrup
- 1/4–1/2 tsp peppermint extract (start small — it’s strong)
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Crushed candy cane or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
How to Make:
- Brew your coffee or pull a shot of espresso and set it aside.
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder (or chocolate syrup) and sugar until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Stir in the peppermint extract, tasting after a small amount and adding more if you want stronger mint flavor.
- Pour the coffee or espresso into a mug, then add the chocolate-mint milk and stir to combine.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle crushed candy cane or chocolate shavings for a festive finish.
- Sip slowly and enjoy the merry mix of chocolate and peppermint!
Maple Chai Latte
Cozy up with warm spice and a whisper of maple — this Maple Chai Latte is comfort in a cup.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
- 4 whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or 1/4 tsp ground cardamom)
- 4 whole cloves (or a pinch ground cloves)
- 1 small piece fresh ginger, sliced (about 1/2 inch) or 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1 black tea bag or 1½ tsp loose black tea (Assam or Darjeeling)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or any plant milk)
- 1–2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (to taste)
- Pinch of black pepper (optional, for warmth)
How to Make:
- In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer with the cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and star anise if using.
- Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes so the spices release their flavor.
- Add the black tea to the spiced water and steep off the heat for 3–4 minutes (longer for stronger tea).
- Strain out the spices and tea leaves into the saucepan, discarding solids.
- Stir in the milk and return to low heat, warming until just steaming — don’t boil.
- Remove from heat and whisk or froth briefly for a light foam, if desired.
- Sweeten with maple syrup and add a pinch of black pepper if you like a little extra warmth; taste and adjust.
- Pour into a mug and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Enjoy a steaming sip of maple-kissed chai — perfect for chilly mornings or cozy evenings.
Cinnamon Honey Toddy
Cinnamon Honey Toddy — cozy, warming, and perfectly spiced for chilly nights.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cinnamon stick (plus extra for garnish)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
- 1½ ounces (3 tablespoons) whiskey, rum, or brandy
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional: lemon slice or twist, star anise for garnish
How to Make:
- Heat the water until steaming hot but not boiling.
- Place the cinnamon stick in a mug and pour the hot water over it.
- Stir in the honey until fully dissolved.
- Add the whiskey, rum, or brandy and mix gently.
- Stir in the lemon juice and taste; add more honey if you like it sweeter.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and an extra cinnamon stick or star anise if using.
- Sip slowly and enjoy the cozy warmth—perfect for curling up by the fire.
Gingerbread Hot Cocoa
Warm up your holidays with a cozy, spiced Gingerbread Hot Cocoa — all the comfort of gingerbread in a cup.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (optional for extra richness)
- Whipped cream or marshmallows, for serving
- Ginger snap cookie or a cinnamon stick, for garnish (optional)
How to Make:
- In a small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Add the cocoa-spice mixture to the warm milk and whisk until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Stir in the molasses and chopped chocolate (if using); continue to heat and whisk until the chocolate melts and the drink is steaming.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
- Garnish with a ginger snap or cinnamon stick if desired.
Sip slowly and enjoy that gingerbread-in-a-mug feeling!
Mexican Hot Chocolate
Rich, spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate to warm you up with a cozy kick.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk (or use almond milk for a lighter version)
- 3 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped (or 1/2 cup good-quality chocolate chips)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2–3 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cayenne pepper (optional; more if you like heat)
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or frothed milk, for topping
- Cinnamon sticks or a dusting of cocoa, for garnish
How to Make:
- Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and warm over medium heat until it begins to steam, not boil.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Add the chopped chocolate and stir constantly until fully melted and the mixture is glossy.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the vanilla, simmering gently for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice, then remove from heat.
- Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream or frothed milk, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a light dusting of cocoa.
- Serve hot and enjoy the rich, spicy comfort in every sip.
Rosemary-Infused Hot Toddy
Warm up with a cozy, herb-kissed classic that’s equal parts soothing and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 tbsp honey (or to taste)
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
- 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) hot water
- 1 fresh rosemary sprig (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lemon wheel or peel for garnish
- Optional: pinch of ground cloves or a cinnamon stick for extra warmth
How to Make:
- Add the honey and lemon juice to a heatproof mug.
- Pour in the whiskey.
- Gently bruise the rosemary sprig (tap it to release oils) and add to the mug.
- Pour hot water over the ingredients and stir until the honey dissolves.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon as desired.
- Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and a lemon wheel or peel; optionally add a cinnamon stick or sprinkle of cloves.
- Let steep for a minute to infuse, then sip slowly and enjoy the warming aroma.
Cheers — this rosemary-infused hot toddy is perfect for chilly nights and mellowing out.
Caramel Salted Hot Chocolate
Silky caramel meets a kiss of sea salt — the ultimate cozy hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped semi-sweet or milk chocolate (or 2 tablespoons chocolate chips)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of flaky sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
How to Make:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, and sugar until smooth and warm.
- Stir in the chopped chocolate and caramel sauce; keep stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the drink is glossy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of flaky sea salt; taste and add more salt or sugar if you like.
- Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream or marshmallows, drizzle extra caramel over the top, and finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- Sip slowly and enjoy the gooey, sweet-and-salty magic.
Cheers to a perfectly cozy treat!
Orange Clove Mulled Wine
A cozy, spiced mulled wine that fills the kitchen with citrusy, clove-scented warmth.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (Merlot or Cabernet work well)
- 1 orange, sliced (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 6–8 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3–4 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup brandy or orange liqueur (optional, for extra warmth)
- Freshly grated nutmeg (a pinch, optional)
How to Make:
- Pour the red wine into a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Add the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
- Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract if using.
- Warm the mixture gently—do not boil—until steam rises and sugar dissolves, about 10–15 minutes.
- Taste and add brandy or orange liqueur for extra kick, and more sugar if you like it sweeter.
- Keep the mulled wine on the lowest heat for up to 30 minutes to meld flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Strain out the spices and orange slices into mugs, garnish with fresh orange slices and a cinnamon stick.
- Grate a little nutmeg on top if desired, then serve warm.
Enjoy this fragrant, festive mulled wine to cozy up your holiday evenings!
Vanilla Cardamom Steamer
Warm up your winter with a cozy, fragrant Vanilla Cardamom Steamer.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or any plant-based milk)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract + 2 tbsp simple syrup)
- 4-6 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom)
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener, to taste
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for garnish
How to Make:
- Crack the cardamom pods slightly to release the seeds and aroma.
- In a small saucepan, combine the milk, water, crushed cardamom (or ground cardamom), sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Warm the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally so it doesn’t scald, until it’s steaming and just below a simmer (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla syrup or vanilla + simple syrup mixture.
- If you used whole cardamom pods, strain the steamer through a fine mesh into a serving pitcher or directly into mugs.
- Froth lightly with a hand frother or whisk for a silky top, if desired.
- Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick if you like, and serve right away.
Enjoy every fragrant, velvety sip of this holiday treat!
Toasted Coconut Hot Chocolate
Toasted Coconut Hot Chocolate — cozy, tropical, and decadently chocolatey in every sip.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full fat) for richness
- 3 oz (about 1/2 cup) dark chocolate, chopped (or high-quality chocolate chips)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream or marshmallows, extra toasted coconut, chocolate shavings
How to Make:
- Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until golden and fragrant, about 2–4 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk and coconut milk and warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Stir in the chopped dark chocolate until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the toasted coconut, brown sugar (or maple), vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir and let simmer gently for 2–3 minutes so flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. If you prefer a smoother drink, strain out the coconut before serving.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, and chocolate shavings if desired.
Cozy up with this tropical twist on hot chocolate and enjoy every velvety, toasty sip!
Conclusion
You’ve got 13 easy recipes to try, so pick one and get started. Don’t worry if you think you’ll mess up a fancy drink—most are forgiving and a small tweak fixes things. Heat slowly, taste as you go, and adjust sugar or spice to your liking. Invite someone to share or sip alone while you relax. These drinks warm you and are simple to make, so enjoy the season one cup at a time.