The Smoked Chocolate Chili Mocha

The Smoked Chocolate Chili Mocha

The Smoked Chocolate Chili Mocha is a luxurious and bold hot cocktail that combines the richness of chocolate, the warmth of chili, and the smokiness of bourbon. This indulgent beverage is a treat for the senses, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and depth of flavor. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate a touch of sophistication and a hint of adventure in their hot cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur

• 1/2 oz chili-infused simple syrup

• 1/2 oz smoked cinnamon syrup

• 1 cup hot brewed coffee

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Grated dark chocolate or cocoa powder for garnish

Chili-Infused Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1-2 chili peppers (sliced, seeds removed)

Smoked Cinnamon Syrup:

• Smoked Cinnamon Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2-3 cinnamon sticks

• Wood chips for smoking (e.g., applewood or hickory)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Peppermint

Method:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and sliced chili peppers. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the syrup to infuse with chili flavor. Remove from heat, let it cool, and strain out the chili slices.

In a separate saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Once sugar is dissolved, add wood chips to a smoking gun or smoker and smoke the syrup. Let it sit covered for a few minutes to infuse the smoky flavor. Strain out the cinnamon sticks.

Prepare a cup of hot brewed coffee using your preferred method. In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine bourbon, chocolate liqueur, chili-infused simple syrup, and smoked cinnamon syrup. Pour the hot brewed coffee over the bourbon-chocolate mixture. Stir well to combine.

Top the cocktail with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with grated dark chocolate or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

The Smoky Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocoa

The Smoky Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocoa

The Smoky Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocoa is a luxurious and flavor-packed hot cocktail that combines the rich notes of chocolate, the warmth of bourbon, the sweetness of maple, and the savory essence of bacon. This indulgent beverage is a treat for those who appreciate a delightful interplay of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in their hot drinks.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur

• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup

• 1/2 oz smoked bacon-infused simple syrup

• 1 cup hot milk (whole milk or a milk alternative)

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Crispy bacon bits for garnish

Smoked Bacon-Infused Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4-5 strips of cooked bacon

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Rich

Method:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cooked bacon strips. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the syrup to infuse with the smoky bacon flavor. Remove from heat, let it cool, and strain out the bacon bits.

Heat the milk in a saucepan or using a steam wand until hot but not boiling. In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine bourbon, chocolate liqueur, pure maple syrup, and smoked bacon-infused simple syrup. Pour the hot milk over the bourbon-chocolate mixture. Stir well to combine.

Top the cocktail with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top.

The Cardamom Chai White Russian

The Cardamom Chai White Russian

The Cardamom Chai White Russian is a modern and aromatic twist on the classic White Russian cocktail, infusing it with the exotic flavors of cardamom and spiced chai. This hot cocktail combines the rich and velvety elements of the traditional White Russian with the warmth of chai tea, creating a cozy and indulgent drink that's perfect for chilly evenings.

• Ingredients:

• 1 cup chai tea (strongly brewed and cooled)

• 1/2 cup vodka

• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 2 tablespoons cardamom syrup (homemade or store-bought)

• Ice (optional, for serving)

Cardamom Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 8-10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Rich

Method:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and crushed cardamom pods. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse flavors. Remove from heat and let it cool. Strain out cardamom pods, and store the syrup in a sealed container.

Brew a strong cup of chai tea and let it cool to room temperature. You can use chai tea bags or loose-leaf tea, depending on your preference. nIn a shaker, combine the cooled chai tea, vodka, coffee liqueur, and cardamom syrup. Shake well to combine. If serving hot, warm your glass by running it under hot water. If serving cold, fill the glass with ice. Pour the shaken mixture over ice or into the warmed glass. Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.

Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a cinnamon stick. Stir before sipping to combine the flavors.

The Spiced Maple Bourbon Cider

The Spiced Maple Bourbon Cider

The Spiced Maple Bourbon Cider is a delightful and warming hot cocktail that captures the essence of autumn in a cup. Combining the robust flavors of bourbon, the sweetness of maple, and the comforting warmth of spiced apple cider, this beverage is a perfect choice for cozy evenings by the fireplace or as a festive addition to autumn gatherings.

• Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz pure maple syrup

• 1 cup spiced apple cider

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3 whole cloves

• Orange zest for garnish

• Optional: Star anise for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

In a saucepan, heat the spiced apple cider over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and whole cloves. Allow the cider to simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse the spices. Remove from heat.

In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine bourbon and pure maple syrup. Pour the spiced apple cider over the bourbon and maple syrup mixture. Stir well to combine. Garnish the cocktail with a cinnamon stick, a twist of orange zest, and if desired, a star anise for an extra layer of aroma.

The Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria

The Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria

The Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria is a festive and aromatic hot cocktail that combines the beloved elements of sangria with the warmth of mulled wine. Infused with the vibrant tartness of cranberries, the citrusy zing of oranges, and a blend of aromatic spices, this delightful beverage is perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to spread warmth and cheer.

• Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine (e.g., Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

• 1 cup cranberry juice

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 orange, thinly sliced

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4-5 whole cloves

• Optional: Star anise for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Wine

Method:

In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, brandy, and honey or maple syrup. Add the thinly sliced orange, fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to the mixture. Place the saucepan over low to medium heat, allowing the mixture to heat gently. Be cautious not to bring it to a boil to preserve the alcohol content.

Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the fruits and spices to infuse their flavors into the sangria. Once heated, ladle the Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria into heat-resistant glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a star anise for an extra layer of aroma.

The Mulled Wine

About The Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a beloved hot cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries, especially during the colder months. This comforting beverage involves heating red wine with a mix of aromatic spices and sweeteners, creating a delightful concoction that warms both the body and spirit. The combination of red wine and spices not only provides a cozy and fragrant experience but also makes it a versatile drink that can be tailored to personal taste preferences.

• Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (choose a medium to full-bodied variety like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3-4 whole cloves

• 1 star anise

• Optional: a shot of brandy or rum for an extra kick

• Optional garnish: orange peel or cinnamon stick

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Wine

Method:

Pour the entire bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or pot. Use a wine you enjoy but avoid overly expensive ones as the flavors will be infused with spices. Stir in honey or sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, considering the natural sweetness of the wine. Add the sliced orange, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and star anise to the pot. These ingredients contribute to the rich aroma and flavor of the mulled wine.

Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Warm the mixture gently, avoiding boiling to preserve the alcohol content. Allow the flavors to meld for at least 15-20 minutes. If desired, add a shot of brandy or rum just before serving for an extra layer of warmth and complexity. Before serving, use a fine-mesh strainer to remove the spices and citrus slices. This ensures a smooth and pleasant drinking experience.

Pour the mulled wine into heat-resistant glasses or mugs. Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a cinnamon stick for an elegant touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth.

The Winter Spice Eggnog

About The Eggnog

The Winter Spiced Eggnog is a classic and indulgent hot cocktail that embodies the festive spirit of the holiday season. Combining the creamy richness of eggnog with warm winter spices and a touch of brandy, this comforting elixir is perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at holiday gatherings for a nostalgic taste of winter warmth.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz brandy

• 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       CHRISTMAS!

Method:

If not using store-bought eggnog, prepare homemade eggnog or warm the store-bought version gently in a saucepan. In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine brandy, eggnog, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir well to incorporate the spices. Place the glass or mug on low heat or warm it gently in a microwave until the Winter Spiced Eggnog reaches your desired temperature. Be cautious not to bring it to a boil. Top the Winter Spiced Eggnog with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Dust the whipped cream with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini is a decadent and festive hot cocktail that combines the classic comfort of hot chocolate with the cool and invigorating taste of peppermint. This delightful martini is perfect for winter celebrations, offering a luxurious blend of rich chocolate, creamy liqueurs, and a refreshing hint of peppermint to create a sophisticated and cozy drink.

• Ingredients:

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur

• 1 oz peppermint schnapps

• 1/2 oz vodka

• 1 cup hot chocolate (prepared with milk)

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Crushed peppermint candies for rimming (optional)

• Mini candy canes for garnish (optional)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Peppermint

Method:

Prepare hot chocolate using your preferred method, substituting water with milk for a creamier texture.

In a shaker, combine chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, vodka, and hot chocolate. Shake well to combine. Strain the mixture into a heat-resistant martini glass. Top the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For an extra festive touch, hang a mini candy cane on the rim of the glass or let it float in the martini.

The Gunfire

About The Gunfire

This British cocktail hails from the British Army in the late 1800s. The Gunfire is traditionally served to the lower ranks of soldiers before an attack as a form of liquid courage. The cocktail is also drunk in celebration as well and on holidays. This simple cocktail is made by adding a shot of rum to a cup of black tea.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. Black Tea

• 1 oz. Rum

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:     Hot

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Tea

Method:

Pour the tea into a cup. Pour the rum in and stir.

The Hot Girl Scout Cookie

About The Hot Girl Scout Cookie

Now there’s a few dozen cocktails all named the “Girl Scout Cookie” or after one of the famous brands of cookies, but hear us out; there aren’t many hot cocktail versions. This recipe is more reminiscent of the Thin Mint© style of cookie. This chocolatey and minty recipe is sure to be a hit amongst your customers/guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Peppermint Schnapps

• ½ oz. Dark Creme de Cacao

• 1 tp. Creme de Menthe

• 6 oz. Hot Chocolate

• Whipped Cream/Sprinkles/Chocolate Shavings (for garnish)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Light

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Mint

Method:

Build ingredients in mug and stir thoroughly. Top with whipped cream and garnish with shaved chocolate or sprinkles.

The Black Magic

About The Black Magic

The Black Magic is a favorite after dinner drink that combines the sweetness of chocolate and amaretto along with Irish Cream and Coffee Liqueur to create an absolutely magical sweetness and smoothness. This recipe was popularized in the mid 2000s although it has been around far longer than that.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Amaretto

• 1 oz. Irish Cream

• 1 oz. Coffee Liqueur

• Fill Hot Chocolate

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Light

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Sweet Coffee

Method:

Build ingredients in mug and stir thoroughly. Top with whipped cream and garnish with shaved chocolate.

The Hot Buttered Rum

About The Hot Buttered Rum

The Hot Buttered Rum is a hot rum cocktail that really hits the spot when there’s that cold chill in the air. Although it may seem odd to add butter to a cocktail recipe; it’s definitely a big part of the composition and profile of this cocktail. This recipe dates back to the colonial era, however it experienced a large revival in the 1930s. There are MANY variants to this recipe so do your best to experiment and find that perfect recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Spiced Rum

• 2 oz. Hot Water

• 1 Stick of Butter (unsalted & room temperature)

• ⅔ cup of Dark Brown Sugar

• ½ tsp. of Ground Cinnamon

• ¼ cup of Honey

• ¼ tsp. of Ground Nutmeg

• ⅛ Ground Cloves

• Pinch of Salt

• Cinnamon Sticks (for garnish)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Complex

• Flavor: Spiced

Method:

Using a kitchen mixer, beat the brown sugar, butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a 4-cup (or larger) measuring cup. Add the rum and then 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until the butter mixture dissolves. Divide the buttered rum among 4 mugs. Garnish with the cinnamon sticks and serve.

The Hot Cinnamon Roll

About The Hot Cinnamon Roll

Meet your new favorite after dinner drink; the Hot Cinnamon Roll. This delicious drink is created by mixing flavored rums and schnapps into coffee. We recommend using a flavored coffee such as cinnamon or even something as basic as pumpkin spice. Make sure to add the whipped cream and cinnamon stick!

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Dark Rum

• 1½ oz. Vanilla Rum

• 1½ oz. Caramel Liqueur

• 1½ oz. Cinnamon Schnapps

• 6 oz. Coffee (try to use something cinnamon or spice flavored).'

• Whipped Cream & Cinnamon Stick for garnish.

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Strong

• Difficulty: Medium

• Flavor: Cinnamon

Method:

Build ingredients in mug and stir thoroughly until well mixed. Garnish with cinnamon, sugar, whipped cream, and/or cinnamon stick.

The Barn Burner

About The Barn Burner

When you’re looking for that perfect warm fall cocktail, but you don’t want something like tea or coffee. The Barn Burner is a simple apple cider recipe but it is always a delicious option. We recommend adding something like a cinnamon stick for garnish, or if more decadent; add some maple syrup!

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Bourbon Whiskey

• 6 oz. Hot Apple Cider

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Light

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Apple

Method:

Warm cider to desired drinking temperature. Pour cider into a large mug and add bourbon liqueur. Garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired.

The Bacardi Fireside

About The Bacardi Fireside

The Bacardi Fireside is a bone-warming cocktail that is similar to a Hot Toddy in composition, with the notable replacement of whiskey for Bacardi Black Rum. The Bacardi Fireside is a simple recipe, that can be replicated in large amounts to serve many guests. I would recommend a cinnamon stick, lemon, and cloves for garnish to add to the flavor of the recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Dark Rum

• 1 Sugar Cube

• Fill Hot Tea

• Cinnamon Stick, Lemon Wheel, and/or Cloves for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Sweet

Method:

Muddle Rum and sugar cube gently in glass. Pour hot tea and stir gently until dissolved. Garnish with lemon wedge and/or cloves if desired.

The Black Flag

About The Black Flag

The Black Flag is technically a Grog; meaning it consists of Rum and Water mixed together. The tradtional variant of this recipe is made with hot water, then chilled with ice and strained into a cocktail glass over crushed ice; however, I think the mixture works far better as a hot cocktail. In my opinion, the molasses and honey hold the drink together far better when remaining hot. Similar to our American Grog recipe, this cocktail uses Dark Rum and adds in Honey and Molasses instead of straight sugar to add a whole new level of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Dark Rum

• ½ oz. Molasses

• 1 tsp. Honey

• Fill Hot Water

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Sweet

Method:

Pour ingredients into glass and mix until dissovled. Add a Lemon Wedge with Cloves for garnish if desired.

Variant: Shake with ice and strain into Cocktail Glass with crushed ice for traditional version.

The Hot Toddy

About The Hot Toddy

The Hot Toddy is the all-around classic hot cocktail. Invented sometime in the late 1700s to the mid 1800s, the Hot Toddy or The Hot Whiskey in Ireland is a super simple and warming drink that is perfect for the cold fall and winter nights. The Hot Toddy is also super customizable, additions typically include lemons, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Whiskey (Your Choice of Type)

• ¾ cup of Hot Water

• 2-3 tsp. Honey (to taste)

• 2-3 tsp. of Lemon Juice (to taste)’

• Lemon, Cinnamon, and/or Cloves for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.0 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Sweet

Method:

Pour ingredients into glass and mix until dissovled. Add a Lemon Wedge with Cloves or Cinnamon Stick for garnish if desired.

Empire Tip: The amount of lemon juice and honey is up to you. You can add more or less of each to find the profile that suits you.

The Night Train

About The Night Train

The Night Train is an after-dinner cocktail that is similar to profile to an Irish Coffee but adds Vodka instead. Complimenting and assisting the vodka addition is the ingredient of Hazelnut Liqueuer. This helps add immense flavor to the cocktail whilst masking the Vodka aftertaste. This cocktail is best enjoyed in cozy company.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Vodka

• 1 oz. Hazelnut Liqueur

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• Fill Hot Coffee

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.0 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Coffee

Method:

Mix ingredients together gently in serving glass.

The American Grog

About The American Grog

Ah Grog, is there anything so ingrained in pirate culture as you (and rum)? A quick history lesson on the Age of Exploration with this recipe; during this time period there was no electricity or seabound filtration techniques so things like beer and wine spoiled quickly on long voyages. Water would turn stale and grow algae and thus become undrinkable. British Admiral Edward Vernon ordered his crew to mix the rum reserves with his water supply to prevent it from spoiling and it worked! This would become the standard practice for sailors in the years to come. His nickname was “Old Grog” due to a Grogside Jacket he wore so the crew named the idea after him.

In this variant, we add a sugar cube and lemon juice because as it turns out; hot watered down rum tastes terrible. I would also recommend adding a few cloves for flavor. The end result is a warming cocktail with a lemon flavor and the sugar helps to soothe and cut the bite of the rum.

“Water, water, every where,/ Nor any drop to drink."

-Samuel Taylor Coleridge “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” c. 1798

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Silver Rum

• ¾ oz. Lemon Juice

• 4 oz. Hot Water

• 1 Sugar Cube

• Lemon Wedge (for Garnish)

• Cloves (for Garnish)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.0 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Lemon

Method:

Put rum, lemon juice, and sugar cube in glass. Gently muddle sugar cube. Fill with hot water. Stir to dissolve sugar.

The Irish Coffee

About The Irish Coffee

The Irish Coffee has a bit of a muddled history. Since the mid-1800s the French would serve a cocktail known as a Gloria, which was any mixture of coffee and spirits. So it’s not off-base to say the Irish Coffee is just a Whiskey Gloria, however when’s the last time you’ve heard of a Gloria cocktail? The modern Irish Coffee is mostly agreed to have originated in County Limerick, Ireland. In the mid 1950s, the cocktail began appearing in the United States on the West Coast and its popularity took off from there. A staple of after-dinner cocktail menus everywhere, the Irish Coffee and its iterations have survived and continue to thrive.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Irish Whiskey

• 1 oz. Cream

• 4 oz. Hot Coffee

• 1 tsp Brown Sugar

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.0 Stars

• Served: Hot

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Coffee

Method:

Heat the coffee, whiskey, and sugar but do not bring to a boil. Pour into glass and top with cream.