8 Warm Drinks to Sip by the Fire

Written by
Mattie Schuler
Whether it's inside by a crackling fireplace or outside around a campfire, sometimes the best part about the cold weather is curling up with a warm drink. Some have only a few simple ingredients, while others may take a bit more expertise, but all are worth the effort when it comes to warming you up.
Hot Cocoa
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This classic winter drink has endless possibilities if you want to spice it up. Whether you use a pre-made package or decide to make your own, you can't go wrong. That said, you won't regret forgoing the SwissMiss and opting for something a bit richer, perhaps a dark chocolate or a peppermint cocoa.

Stir with a cinnamon or peppermint stick and add homemade whipped cream and plenty of marshmallows. If you're looking for another twist on your favorite flavor, add Bailey's, Kahlua, or flavored coffee creamer.
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Hot Cider
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If you aren't a chocolate fan or find hot cocoa to be too sweet, warm your bones with hot apple cider. Since making cider is fairly easy, opt to make your own with only three basic ingredients—apple juice or cider (splurge for the good stuff), cinnamon and nutmeg. Heat over the fire and add cloves or an orange slice for some extra flavor and let everything steap.

Stir with a cinnamon stick and add a splash of dark rum for the adult version.
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Hot Toddy
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This drink is sweet and spicy with cloves, honey, lemon, and whiskey, and is best enjoyed when freshly made at the campsite. Add different flavors using apple cider and ginger, or use cranberry juice instead of water.
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Chai
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People either love or hate this spice-filled drink. Chai tea consists of black tea with a blend of spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and black peppercorns, and is best served with milk or milk substitute. Make your own or buy it from the store—try Bhakti Chai or Third Street Chai, both of which come in concentrate form, perfect for making your own special blend or adding a splash to your morning coffee.

Try a spicier blend that has ginger or opt for a Chai made with green tea instead. Although there are recipes for Chai Tea, the store bought bottles or concentrates will definitely satisfy your taste buds.
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Irish Coffee
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Simple, yet delicious, this warm drink is your morning cup of coffee and then some; specifically brown sugar, Irish Whiskey and a dollop of lightly whipped heavy cream. This is perfect for the campfire and is a great start to an even better night. Follow Esquire's recipe for the perfect Irish Coffee.
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Hot Buttered Rum
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You can't go wrong with this warm drink. Muddle a slice of butter, some sugar, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) in the bottom of a mug, and then slowly pour rum and boiling water in the cup. For a twist, add orange slices, use ground ginger or even cider. It's best enjoyed around a fire with family and friends.
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Mulled Wine
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This drink is usually made in bulk, perfect for a group campfire—adults only. Recipes vary, but the basics include a bottle of red wine heated with some rum, port or brandy, and mixed with honey or another sweetener, orange juice and zest, cloves, anise and a few cinnamon sticks.
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Warm Milk and Honey
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As a perfect pre-bedtime drink that's also great for kids, warm honey and milk will satisfy a sweet tooth and warm you up. It's also easy to make: warm milk and add a squeeze of honey. Opt for local, high-quality honey, with a slight cranberry or orange flavor for a unique taste.
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