Warm Up With These Crocktails
It's going to be a bone-chilling Christmas in most of the U.S., so get out the crock pot and make some comforting cocktails.
It’s less than a week until Christmas, and we’re in for one of the coldest holiday seasons in 40 years, according to weather forecasters. An Arctic blast will chill most of the United States, with some cities in the west seeing temperatures of -30 degrees. Even in Orlando, visitors to Disneyworld can expect near-freezing weather.
There’s only one thing to do while you wait for Santa — snuggle up in your Christmas pajamas with a comforting, warm drink.
I like to make a batch of warm cocktails in my little crock pot — I call them “crocktails.” As the ingredients simmer, your house will be filled with the scents of apples, berries, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s heaven even before you take the first sip.
Here are some easy recipes for my favorite crocktails, including a few non-alcoholic ones for the kiddos and for Santa who has to drive his sleigh.
Hot Toddy
When you’re looking to warm up without too much effort, a hot toddy is for you. The added bonus is that you likely have all the ingredients already in your house: Whiskey, hot water, lemons, honey, and cinnamon are the key ingredients in this boozy, comforting cocktail. The Pioneer Woman has a great recipe that you can build on to make it your own by adding apple slices, an orange wheel, or anything else that’s aromatic.
Mulled Wine
Ina Garten’s recipe for mulled wine combines apple cider and red wine with spices to make this classic.
Hot Cocoa
If you’ve only been drinking instant hot cocoa, now is the time to up your game. There’s a world of difference between the kind you get in a package and a real cup of cocoa. If you’re having guests over, set up a little cocoa station with tiny marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, gummy bears, and flavored syrups. For grownups, add some personal airplane bottles of bourbon, tequila, rum, and peppermint schnapps.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot buttered rum is one of those drinks that is far more delicious than it sounds. In actuality, this is my absolute favorite hot boozy drink. When made right, you don’t taste the butter, but it gives the cocktail a smooth, velvety texture that’s gorgeous. Try it for yourself.
Hot Spiced Cider
Nancy Fuller’s recipe is made with basically all the baking spices you would use for an apple pie, so your cider will be rich and flavorful. I like to add a bit of honey, to taste. Spike the cider with bourbon, apple brandy, or applejack or serve it as a non-alcoholic treat for all to enjoy.