Big Batch Hot Drinks To Keep You Warm This Winter

As the air turns crisp and winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug. Whether it’s to ward off the chill during outdoor activities, enjoy a cozy evening by a crackling fire, or the main event entertaining holiday guests, hot drinks are a shortcut to a comforting, festive atmosphere. From soothing teas to decadent hot chocolate to spiced, whiskey-spiked cider, big batches of hot drinks are essential for fall and winter gatherings.

No matter which hot drink you’re planning to make, you’re going to want a big pot. There’s probably nothing better than a gently simmering pot of bittersweet hot chocolate ready for topping with a dollop of whipped cream or a vat of mulled wine gently bubbling away and perfuming the kitchen. A Dutch oven, 8-quart pot, or your largest stockpot are all good picks for big batch hot drinks. If you’re assuming each guest will have 2 six- to eight-ounce beverages, your Dutch oven is good for 20 servings, or around 8 to 10 guests, the 8-quart pot is good for 14 to 16 guests, and the 10-quart stockpot is ideal for big bashes of around 18 to 22 guests.

When it comes to serving, consider using mugs for an intimate gathering, or opt for disposable paper cups for larger events, making cleanup a breeze.

Spiced Mulled Cider

Warm your soul (and hands) with a big batch of spiced hot apple cider, perhaps the quintessential fall beverage. Pick up jugs of fresh apple cider from the supermarket (or your local farm stand) and simmer with baking spices (like cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and all spice) until deeply perfumed. Add a few slices of apple and orange or fresh cranberries for decoration. Serve garnished with cinnamon sticks and a glug of whiskey or bourbon, if you like. This recipe from Southern Living for Big-Batch Mulled Cider will do the trick.

Eggnog

Nothing says “the holidays” quite like a punch bowl full of eggnog topped with clouds of whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg. (Though, we won’t hold it against you if you want to drink eggnog the whole winter long.) After whisking up the custard base in your Dutch oven, 8-quart pot, or your largest stockpot, cool the mixture and transfer it to a serving bowl. To make it family-friendly, set out bottles of booze next to the eggnog rather than stirring it in. Rum, whiskey, and brandy are all great picks. The New York Times’ recipe for cooked eggnog is a good place to start your tradition.

Classic Hot Chocolate

A great mug of hot chocolate is timeless, and is the ideal companion from November to March. To make a simple yet decadent hot chocolate, combine high-quality cocoa powder as well as chocolate chips along with sugar, and milk (whether dairy or non-dairy), and whisk over medium heat until smooth and velvety. For an adult twist, add a splash of your favorite liqueur. Serve in mugs with whipped cream or marshmallows for a decadent treat. Add a dash of peppermint extract (or a glug of peppermint schnapps) for Christmassy twist, or stir in cinnamon and cayenne for a Mexican-inspired batch. This Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe from Delish will certainly do the trick.

Big Batch Pumpkin Spice Latte

C’mon, we all know that the best fall drink is a pumpkin spice latte. (Haters can find other options above.) Making a big batch PSL is not hard to do. Make your pumpkin spice syrup, then combine in your Dutch oven, 8-quart pot, or your largest stockpot with your milk of choice. Rather than stirring espresso into the pot, offer espresso shots on the side. Or, if you’d prefer a caffeine-free hot drink, serve with decaf espresso instead. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkling of pumpkin spice, natch. Looking for a pumpkin spice syrup recipe? This one from The Kitchn is a dream.

Whether you're hosting a gathering, spending a cozy evening with loved ones, or simply craving a warm pick-me-up, these big batch hot drinks are sure to elevate the spirits and make chilly days in the fall and winter more enjoyable. Pour yourself a mug, gather around the fireplace, and savor the comforting flavors that these delightful beverages bring.

Big Batch Hot Toddy

Most people whip up a hot toddy when they’re looking for a hot drink for a sore throat, but the hot toddy is a great hot cocktail for crowds. Made with hot water, lemon, honey, and whiskey, this is the perfect tipple for cold weather. Make the base in your Dutch oven and set out bottles of bourbon for people to add their own booze. This recipe for a classic Hot Toddy from Delish is a good place to start. Scale it up for a crowd.