Winter Drinks

Toast the season with these enticing winter warmups.

Recipe by Sarah Mccullen | Photographed by Joe Worthem

When the weather outside is frightful, a steaming mug of hot cocoa or tea can warm the soul. For a twist on the traditional, mix up a batch of one of these hot adult drinks to share with friends and family this winter.

Coconut Hot Chocolate

2 cups milk

½ cup semisweet chocolate chips

3 tablespoons coconut vodka

Whipped cream, optional

Chocolate shavings, optional

In a medium saucepan, heat milk and chocolate chips, whisking constantly, until chocolate is completely melted, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and let cool for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in coconut vodka, and serve in a mug topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.

Mulled Red Wine

2 oranges, plus more orange slices for garnish

1 bottle dry red wine

8 whole cloves

3 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish

2 star anise

3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

¼ cup brandy or grand marnier, optional

Thinly slice 1 of the oranges; juice the remaining orange. In a medium saucepan, combine sliced oranges, orange juice, wine, cloves, cinnamon stick, star anise, honey and, if desired, brandy. Heat over low until just barely simmering, about 15 minutes. Using a fine mesh strainer, pour wine mixture into a mug, discarding fruit and spices; and garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick, if desired.