It’s now fall: that colorful time of year when the leaves are falling, the air is crisp and refreshing, and the woolen blankets are warm and comforting. It’s when we make pumpkin pies, apple crisps and drink warm drinks, like hot apple cider and warm tea. If you’re in the mood for an extra kick to your regular fall drinks, however, here are some warm spiked drinks for some cold frigid days.
Apple Cider Punch: Refreshing and sweet, this quick drink is perfect to make when you want a break from your gin and tonics. Just mix together sparkling wine, orange juice and cold apple cider.
Hot Buttered Rum: This warm drink is perfect for a night reading indoors, or spending time with friends around a campfire. It takes only three minutes to make: place one small slice of butter, one teaspoon of brown sugar, and some cinnamon at the bottom of a mug; mix well; and then pour in 2 oz. rum mixed with hot water. Replace rum with whiskey for a slightly stronger flavor.
Warm n’ Toasty: The fruity rendition of the classic hot toddy, this drink is infused with bourbon, lemon juice and grenadine. Pour two ounces of bourbon, lemon juice and grenadine into a mug and then fill with hot water. Garnish with a slice of orange and a cinnamon stick.
Autumn Chai Sizzle: Love chai? Then you’ll love it even more with an alcoholic twist. All you’ll need are two ounces of Bailey’s Irish Cream, three ounces of brewed chai tea, raw brown sugar, and a cinnamon stick. After you have brewed the Chai, add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved, before adding the Bailey’s Irish Cream. Garnish with the cinnamon stick. Yum.
Apple Crisp: Here’s one of your favorite fall desserts in a glass. All you’ll need is cake-flavored vodka, whisky, maple syrup and apple juice. Stir together, drain over ice and garnish with a cinnamon stick. Pair this with some vanilla ice cream and you are in sweet, sweet alcohol heaven.
Falling Leaf Fizzle: This is one for the pumpkin-spice-latte lovers out there. It’s a sweet drink bursting with pumpkin flavor. To make, use one part vodka, four parts sparkling wine, a dash of simple syrup, one heaping teaspoon of pumpkin butter, a pinch of pumpkin pie spice and a dried apple chip to garnish. First, mix the vodka, pumpkin butter, spice and syrup in the bottom of a champagne glass. Stir well, then top with sparkling wine and garnish.