12 cozy holiday drinks
Nothing says the holidays like something warm in a mug. These cozy drinks, from hot cocoa to mulled wine, are ready in minutes.
Updated October 2026 · ranked by popularity
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1. Copycat Starbucks pumpkin spice latte
Our take on the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, made with real pumpkin puree and warm spices whisked into steamed milk over espresso. Ready in 10 minutes.
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2. Espresso martini
Vodka, coffee liqueur and fresh espresso shaken hard over ice until a thick, creamy foam forms, finished with three coffee beans.
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3. Copycat Starbucks peppermint mocha
Our take on the Starbucks Peppermint Mocha: a quick cocoa sauce and peppermint whisked into steamed milk over espresso, topped with whipped cream. 10 minutes.
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4. Homemade hot cocoa
Rich stovetop hot chocolate made with cocoa powder and real chopped chocolate, whisked until thick and silky. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
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5. Apple cider sangria
Crisp white wine, apple cider and a splash of brandy poured over sliced apples, pears and cinnamon sticks, then topped with ginger ale. The fall party punch.
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6. Copycat Starbucks white chocolate mocha
Our take on the Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha: a quick melted white chocolate sauce, espresso and steamed milk, topped with whipped cream. Hot in 10 minutes.
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7. Gingerbread latte
Steamed milk whisked with brown sugar, molasses, ginger, cinnamon and cloves, poured over espresso and topped with whipped cream. Hot in 10 minutes.
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8. Mulled apple cider
Fresh apple cider gently simmered with cinnamon sticks, cloves and orange slices until warm and fragrant. A cozy holiday drink, with an optional spiked version.
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9. Mulled wine
Dry red wine gently warmed with orange slices, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise, with a splash of brandy. Warm and fragrant in 20 minutes.
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10. Pumpkin spice syrup for coffee
Homemade pumpkin spice syrup with real pumpkin puree, brown sugar and warm spices. Stir it into lattes, iced coffee or cold brew all fall.
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11. Witches' brew punch
A fizzy green party punch of pineapple juice, lemon-lime soda and scoops of lime sherbet that foam up like a bubbling cauldron. Alcohol-free and kid-approved.
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12. Sparkling pomegranate punch
Ruby pomegranate and orange juice topped with sparkling water or prosecco, with rosemary, orange slices and jewel-like arils. A festive pitcher for a crowd.
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For a party, keep mulled wine or cider warm on the lowest heat (or in a slow cooker) and let guests help themselves.