Quick Checklist:
- Peppermint Mocha Latte – A minty-chocolate holiday hug.
- Gingerbread Latte – Spicy, sweet, and totally festive.
- Eggnog Latte – Creamy and rich, with that perfect seasonal flavor.
- Hot Toddy Coffee – For those cozy, cold nights with a boozy twist.
- Cinnamon Roll Coffee – Dessert in a cup, no baking required.
- Salted Caramel Mocha – The perfect balance of sweet and salty.
There’s something magical about the holidays. Maybe it’s the cozy vibes, the twinkling lights, or the fact that everyone is just a little more cheerful. But if you’re like me, the real magic happens when you mix a little caffeine with a whole lot of holiday spirit. And what better way to get into the festive mood than with some seriously delicious coffee drinks that you can make right at home?
Forget the long lines at the coffee shop—this year, you’re the barista, and these six drinks are going to make your coffee game the talk of the season. Whether you’re huddled up with friends by the fireplace or enjoying a solo moment of zen, these drinks will make sure your coffee is as cozy as the holiday spirit itself.
1. Peppermint Mocha Latte – A Minty Chocolate Dream
Let’s start with a classic: the Peppermint Mocha Latte. If you’ve ever sipped one of these from your local coffee shop and thought, “Why don’t I make this at home?”—now’s your chance. This drink is everything you love about the holidays in one cup: minty, chocolatey, and warm enough to make you forget about the winter chill.
What you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso (or strong coffee)
- 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup (or cocoa powder)
- 1 tablespoon peppermint syrup
- Steamed milk
- Whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended)
- Crushed peppermint or chocolate shavings for garnish
How to make it: Brew your espresso (or strong coffee if that’s all you’ve got). Stir in the chocolate syrup and peppermint syrup until it’s all mixed in. Steam your milk, then pour it over the espresso. Top it off with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint or chocolate shavings.
Why I love it: The peppermint flavor combined with chocolate is just heavenly, and the whipped cream makes it feel like a special treat. Plus, it smells like a holiday in a cup. It’s the kind of drink that just makes everything feel a little brighter.
2. Gingerbread Latte – Spicy and Sweet
Next up, we’ve got the Gingerbread Latte. If gingerbread cookies are a must during the holidays, then this latte is your caffeine-filled counterpart. It’s got that warm, spicy zing that makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a blanket, sitting by the fire, watching a holiday movie.
What you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup (or a homemade mix of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses)
- Steamed milk
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
How to make it: Brew your espresso and stir in your gingerbread syrup (or homemade mix). Steam your milk and pour it over the espresso. Finish it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Why I love it: It’s the perfect blend of spices—sweet and spicy, without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s the perfect thing to sip on while you’re curling up on the couch after a long day of holiday shopping.
3. Eggnog Latte – A Creamy Holiday Favorite
Ah, eggnog. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that eggnog is a holiday staple. If you’re in the “love it” camp, you’re going to adore this eggnog latte. It’s rich, creamy, and spiced to perfection. Just one sip and it’ll feel like the holidays in a cup.
What you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso
- ½ cup eggnog
- ½ cup steamed milk
- Nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish
How to make it: Brew your espresso, then warm up your eggnog (don’t let it boil!). Mix it with steamed milk, then pour it over the espresso. Finish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon on top.
Why I love it: The creamy, rich flavor of eggnog is just so indulgent, and when paired with a shot of espresso, it’s the perfect way to relax after a hectic day. Plus, it’s basically like dessert in a cup.
4. Hot Toddy Coffee – Cozy and a Little Boozy
If you’re looking to add a little something extra to your coffee this season, the Hot Toddy Coffee is your answer. A splash of whiskey, a drizzle of honey, and a shot of espresso come together to make a drink that’s perfect for cozy winter nights. Think of it like a warm hug from the inside out, but with a little kick.
What you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 ounce whiskey (bourbon is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Hot water
- A slice of lemon for garnish
How to make it: Brew your espresso, then stir in the whiskey and honey. Top it off with hot water and stir. Add a slice of lemon as a garnish, and you’re all set.
Why I love it: This drink is perfect for those days when you want something warming and a little boozy. The honey balances out the bitterness of the espresso, and the whiskey gives it a nice warmth. It’s like your favorite cold-weather drink, but better.
5. Cinnamon Roll Coffee – Dessert in a Cup
Do you love cinnamon rolls? Me too. This drink takes all the best flavors of a cinnamon roll and puts them into a cup of coffee. It’s the perfect drink to indulge in on a lazy holiday morning or while you’re winding down after a long day of festivities.
What you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon syrup (or a mix of cinnamon and sugar)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
- Steamed milk
- A sprinkle of cinnamon on top
How to make it: Brew your espresso and stir in the cinnamon and vanilla syrups. Steam your milk and pour it over the espresso. Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for that extra touch.
Why I love it: It’s sweet, it’s spicy, and it’s just the right amount of indulgent without being too over-the-top. It’s like having a cinnamon roll without all the work of baking—and it’s definitely something that’ll make your mornings feel a little extra special.
6. Salted Caramel Mocha – The Sweet and Salty Delight
Last but certainly not least, the Salted Caramel Mocha. This drink has everything: the rich chocolatey goodness of a mocha, the sweetness of caramel, and a little pinch of sea salt to bring it all together. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and an absolute crowd-pleaser.
What you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup
- 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
- A pinch of sea salt
- Steamed milk
- Whipped cream for topping
How to make it: Brew your espresso, then stir in the chocolate and caramel syrups. Steam your milk and pour it over the espresso. Top it off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Why I love it: The salty-sweet combination is irresistible. It’s rich and indulgent, with that perfect balance of flavors. Plus, that little bit of salt just makes it so much more satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—six of the best coffee drinks to make this holiday season. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, spicy, or a little boozy, these drinks will make your mornings, afternoons, and evenings feel like a cozy holiday celebration. So, grab your favorite mug, fire up the espresso machine, and start brewing these festive drinks to keep the holiday cheer flowing!
