Paul Kushner
Winter bourbon cocktails are the perfect way to bring warmth and comfort to the cold season. These drinks highlight the smooth, rich flavor of bourbon while pairing it with seasonal ingredients like cinnamon, maple, apple, and cranberry. Whether you enjoy your bourbon in a spiced Old Fashioned, a creamy holiday blend, or a refreshing citrus drink, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Ideal for holiday parties, cozy nights by the fire, or casual gatherings, these cocktails capture the spirit of the season. Easy to make and full of flavor, winter bourbon cocktails are always a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned is a cozy twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for winter nights and festive celebrations. It combines the rich warmth of bourbon with the gentle sweetness of vanilla and the comforting spice of cinnamon. Each sip is smooth, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, offering both depth and sweetness without being overpowering. The cinnamon adds a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the bourbon’s caramel notes, creating a drink that feels both familiar and special. Whether you’re relaxing by the fire or entertaining guests, the Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned is a simple yet elegant winter favorite.
Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned
Ingredients
Method
- Place the orange wedge in an old-fashioned glass. Gently squeeze it to release the juice, leaving the wedge in the glass.
- Add the simple syrup, vanilla extract, and Angostura bitters to the glass. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Add a few ice cubes to the glass, followed by an orange peel and the cinnamon stick.
- Pour the bourbon over the ice and stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Serve and enjoy your Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned.
Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a warm and comforting cocktail that brings together the cozy taste of chai tea with the rich flavor of bourbon. The homemade chai syrup adds gentle sweetness and spice, while a hint of vanilla gives the drink a soft and inviting finish. Lemon juice brightens the mix, lifting the deeper flavors and keeping everything nicely balanced. With a dash of bitters and a garnish of cinnamon and star anise, this drink feels perfect for cold nights, holiday gatherings, or slow moments at home. It is a simple twist on a classic that still feels special.
Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
Ingredients
Method
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small pot.
- Remove from heat, add chai tea bags, cover, and steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Discard the tea bags, then stir in the sugar while the tea is still warm.
- Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer for about 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract and let it cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- In a mixing glass, add bourbon, lemon juice, bitters, and chai syrup.
- Fill with ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, star anise and orange slice.
Hot Buttered Bourbon
The Hot Buttered Bourbon is the ultimate winter drink, bringing warmth and comfort to cold evenings. It blends the deep, rich flavor of bourbon with hot apple cider and a mix of cozy spices for a smooth and soothing cocktail. The addition of butter and honey gives it a silky texture and a gentle sweetness, while cloves and cinnamon fill the air with a comforting aroma. Each sip feels rich, spiced, and perfectly balanced. Garnished with a cinnamon stick, this drink is ideal for fireside gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply winding down after a long, chilly day.
Hot Buttered Bourbon
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan over low heat, bring the apple cider to a gentle simmer.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Mix with a spoon until fully combined.
- Add the spiced butter mixture to the simmering cider, whisking gently until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the bourbon.
- Pour the Hot Buttered Bourbon into a mug or heat-safe glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of warmth and aroma.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this festive drink.
Winter Honey Old Fashioned
The Winter Honey Old Fashioned is a rich and comforting cocktail that captures the cozy spirit of the season. It brings together the smooth depth of bourbon with the gentle sweetness of honey sage syrup, creating a drink that feels warm and inviting. The touch of citrus from an orange twist brightens the flavors, adding balance to the rich, earthy notes. Each sip is smooth, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced, making it an ideal choice for cold winter nights. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed by the fire, this cocktail adds a touch of elegance to any evening.
Winter Honey Old Fashioned
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a rocks glass with ice to chill it.
- Pour the bourbon honey sage syrup and two dashes bitters over the ice. Stir gently to combine.
- Using a peeler or knife, cut a strip of orange peel. Hold the peel over the glass and twist it to release its aromatic oils. Drop the peel into the glass.
- Place a fresh sage leaf on top for an earthy, aromatic touch.
- Enjoy as-is for a balanced flavor, or add more honey sage syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.
Bourbon Coconut Milk
The Bourbon Coconut Milk is a cozy and creamy cocktail that’s perfect for warming up on a cold winter evening. It blends the smooth flavor of bourbon with the rich combination of whole milk and coconut milk, creating a silky texture that feels both comforting and indulgent. A touch of brown sugar adds gentle sweetness, while freshly grated nutmeg on top gives it a festive aroma and flavor. Each sip is warm, soothing, and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re relaxing by the fire or hosting a holiday gathering, this drink is an inviting way to enjoy the season’s comforting flavors.
Bourbon Coconut Milk
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the whole milk, coconut milk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Heat the mixture until it begins to steam, then whisk vigorously until frothy.
- While the milk mixture heats, warm your mug in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Pour the bourbon into the warmed mug.
- Top with the steaming milk mixture, then garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy flavors.
Bourbon Chai Tea
The Bourbon Chai Tea is a warm and soothing drink that combines the bold flavor of black tea with the comforting taste of winter spices. Blended with almond milk, a splash of bourbon, and a touch of vanilla, it offers the perfect mix of richness and warmth. The honey adds gentle sweetness, balancing the earthy and spicy notes of the chai. Each sip feels smooth, aromatic, and deeply comforting, making it an ideal drink for cold nights or festive gatherings. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends, this Bourbon Chai Tea is a cozy way to unwind and savor the season.
Bourbon Chai Tea
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the hot water, tea bags, crushed spices, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and let it infuse.
- Stir in the vanilla almond milk and honey, whisking to ensure everything is well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the chai tea steep for about 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the tea bags and spices, leaving only the spiced liquid.
- Transfer the strained chai tea to a heatproof serving pitcher and stir in the bourbon.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a festive and comforting drink that captures the warmth of the holiday season. It combines the smooth richness of bourbon with spiced cranberry juice for a balance of sweetness and tartness. A splash of ginger beer adds a lively sparkle, making the drink both refreshing and flavorful. The finishing touch of freshly grated nutmeg adds a cozy aroma and a hint of spice that ties everything together. Perfect for winter parties or quiet evenings by the fire, this cocktail brings a touch of cheer and sophistication to any holiday celebration or chilly night.
Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the spiced cranberry juice and bourbon.
- Add ice to the shaker, then shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with ginger beer and give it a quick stir to blend.
- Grate fresh nutmeg on top for a fragrant, festive garnish.
Winter Spice Old Fashioned
The Winter Spice Old Fashioned is a rich and flavorful twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for cold nights and festive gatherings. It blends the deep, smooth taste of bourbon with the bittersweet flavor of Cynar and the warmth of a spiced simple syrup. The result is a drink that feels both bold and comforting, with hints of cinnamon, clove, and ginger that bring to mind freshly baked gingerbread. A star anise garnish adds a fragrant finish and an elegant touch. Perfect for sipping by the fire, this cocktail captures the cozy, aromatic essence of the winter season.
Winter Spice Old Fashioned
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with plenty of ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, Cynar, and cardamom and clove simple syrup.
- Add three dashes of Angostura bitters to the mixture.
- Stir the cocktail until it is well-chilled and the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a star anise for a warm, aromatic finish.
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a classic winter cocktail that brings warmth and elegance to any festive gathering. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari, it strikes a perfect balance of rich, smooth, and slightly bitter flavors. The whiskey adds depth and warmth, while the vermouth brings sweetness and the Campari adds a hint of citrus and spice. Simple to prepare in just a few minutes, it can be served in a chilled cocktail glass or poured over ice for a more relaxed feel. Whether for a cozy evening or a holiday celebration, the Boulevardier is timeless, bold, and effortlessly sophisticated.
Boulevardier
Ingredients
Method
- Fill your mixing glass with ice
- Using your jigger to measure your pour, add 1 ½ ounces bourbon, 1 ounce Campari, and 1 ounce sweet vermouth to the mixing glass
- Stir evenly for 30 seconds. Do not shake as it will cause the drink to foam
- Strain into chilled cocktail glass
- Use orange twist to garnish
Santa Claus Smash
The Santa Claus Smash is a cheerful holiday cocktail that brings together bright fruit flavors and the warming depth of bourbon. Fresh pomegranate juice adds a tart, juicy quality that balances beautifully with the smooth, rich notes of the whiskey. A touch of ginger brings gentle spice, while a splash of ginger beer on top adds sparkle and a refreshing finish. Garnished with mint and pomegranate arils, the drink looks festive and colorful, making it just right for holiday parties. At the same time, its cozy mix of flavors makes it a perfect choice for quiet winter evenings at home.
Santa Claus Smash
Ingredients
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the pomegranate juice, bourbon, lemon juice, and ginger syrup.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass or tumbler filled with fresh ice.
- Top with ginger beer, pouring gently to preserve the fizz.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of pomegranate arils for a festive touch, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing holiday cocktail.
Cherry Bourbon Chocolate
The Cherry Bourbon Chocolate is a comforting winter cocktail that combines the richness of hot chocolate with the bold flavor of cherry bourbon. The smooth chocolate base brings a deep, sweet taste, while the bourbon adds warmth and a touch of fruitiness that makes each sip feel special. Topped with a layer of whipped cream, this drink feels cozy and inviting, perfect for enjoying on a cold evening by the fire. Finished with a garnish that adds both color and charm, it is an ideal choice for winter celebrations or simply treating yourself to something warm and satisfying.
Cherry Bourbon Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare your favorite hot chocolate using milk or water, adjusting for your desired level of creaminess and richness.
- Pour the cherry bourbon into a mug, followed by the hot chocolate. Stir gently to blend the flavors evenly.
- Top the drink with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Garnish with a cherry and, if desired, sprinkle with shaved chocolate or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of indulgence.
Bad Santa
Bad Santa is a holiday cocktail that gives classic eggnog a stronger, more spirited twist. The creamy texture of traditional eggnog sets the base, while bourbon adds warmth and a bold kick that makes the drink stand out. The balance of sweetness and spice creates a comforting flavor that feels perfect for winter gatherings. A dusting of freshly grated nutmeg brings a fragrant holiday touch, and a cinnamon stick garnish adds both aroma and charm. This drink is ideal for anyone who enjoys their seasonal cocktails rich, flavorful, and with just the right amount of strength to keep the mood festive.
Bad Santa
Ingredients
Method
- In a shaker, combine the bourbon and eggnog. If you prefer a chilled version, add ice and shake gently to mix.
- Pour the mixture into a rocks glass or festive mug. Serve over ice for a cold cocktail or skip the ice for a warm, cozy option.
- Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg over the top. Optionally, add a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.
Tipsy Elf
The Tipsy Elf is a festive spin on the timeless Boulevardier, crafted to bring warmth and cheer to the holiday season. At its heart is smooth bourbon, which provides depth and richness, paired with sweet vermouth that adds a layer of gentle sweetness. Campari contributes a bold, bittersweet edge that ties the drink together, giving it both strength and balance. An orange garnish adds brightness and a touch of citrus aroma that rounds out the flavors beautifully. With its classic base and seasonal character, this cocktail is a great choice for holiday parties or relaxing evenings by the fire.
Tipsy Elf
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing glass filled with ice, add bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
- Stir the mixture for 20–30 seconds to ensure it’s well-chilled and properly combined.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, or into a coupe glass if serving straight up.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by giving it a firm twist above the glass. Drop the peel into the drink or garnish with an orange slice for a festive look.
Persimmon Old Fashioned
The Persimmon Old Fashioned is a holiday cocktail that brings a cozy mix of flavors while keeping the classic character of an Old Fashioned. Bourbon forms the base, offering warmth and richness, while homemade persimmon syrup adds a gentle sweetness with a seasonal touch. Orange bitters provide a hint of citrus and spice that balances the drink, keeping it both bold and smooth. A fresh persimmon slice and a star anise garnish make the presentation festive and inviting. This cocktail feels special yet familiar, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties or quiet evenings at home.
Persimmon Old Fashioned
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, persimmon syrup, and orange bitters.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over a large ice cube or fresh ice.
- Garnish with a slice of persimmon and a star anise pod.
- Serve and savor the warm, spiced flavors.
Cranberry Bourbon Punch
Cranberry Bourbon Punch is a holiday cocktail that brings together bright fruit flavors with the smooth depth of bourbon. The bold character of the whiskey is softened by the sweetness of vermouth and balanced with the crisp taste of cranberry juice. A splash of orange juice adds freshness, while a touch of simple syrup ties everything together with gentle sweetness. The drink is finished with a garnish of rosemary, fresh cranberries, and a slice of orange, giving it both color and aroma. Festive, flavorful, and easy to share, this punch is perfect for gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Cranberry Bourbon Punch
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, orange juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well for about 15–20 seconds until chilled.
- Strain the mixture over fresh ice into a serving glass.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a slice of orange, and a few cranberries for a festive touch.
Pumpkin Pie Whiskey Sour
The Pumpkin Pie Whiskey Sour is a seasonal twist on the classic sour, blending the bold warmth of bourbon with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice. Fresh lemon juice brightens the drink, while pumpkin spice syrup provides sweetness and autumn character. The addition of egg white gives the cocktail a smooth, frothy texture that makes each sip feel rich and satisfying. Finished with aromatic Peychaud’s bitters and a light dusting of nutmeg, this cocktail is both comforting and balanced a festive way to enjoy whiskey with a fall-inspired flair.
Pumpkin Pie Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
Method
- Add the bourbon, pumpkin spice syrup, lemon juice, and egg white to a cocktail shaker.
- Without adding ice, shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to create a frothy texture (this is called a dry shake).
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15 seconds to chill and further mix the ingredients.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer if needed for extra smoothness.
- Garnish with a few dashes of Peychaud’s bitters and a light sprinkle of grated nutmeg.
Bourbon Pear Fizz
The Bourbon Pear Fizz is a seasonal cocktail that combines rich warmth with light, refreshing sparkle. At its base is smooth bourbon, which gives the drink depth and a touch of strength. Spiced pear syrup adds gentle sweetness with a hint of seasonal spice, making the flavor feel cozy and inviting. A splash of Prosecco brings bubbles and brightness, turning the drink into something festive and lively. Garnished with a pear slice or a sprig of herbs, it looks as good as it tastes. This cocktail is a wonderful choice for fall and winter gatherings, from parties to quiet evenings.
Bourbon Pear Fizz
Ingredients
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Spiced Pear Simple Syrup, and lemon juice.
- Add ice to the shaker, secure the lid, and shake until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
- Gently top with Prosecco, allowing it to create a light, bubbly layer.
Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a classic warm cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations during the colder months. Known for its soothing qualities, it blends whiskey with hot water, honey, and lemon to create a drink that is both comforting and flavorful. The whiskey provides warmth and depth, while honey adds gentle sweetness and lemon brings brightness and balance. Often finished with a cinnamon stick or clove garnish, the aroma adds an extra touch of coziness. Perfect for cold winter nights or when you need something soothing, the Hot Toddy is a timeless favorite for seasonal gatherings and quiet evenings.
Hot Toddy
Ingredients
Method
- To make this, add your honey first so it will blend nicely with the hot water.
- Then put the tea bag into a mug and pour over the boiled water.
- Let it steep for a few minutes, then remove the tea bag and add your whisky and juice.
- You can, of course, use fresh tea leaves, but if you really do have a cold, we don't recommend it. Don't make it harder on yourself than you have to.
