The holiday season is looking a little different this year due to COVID-19. Social distancing means that you may be celebrating with a smaller group of loved ones than usual. Whether you are meeting a select number of family members in person or checking in with your nearest and dearest virtually, you can still raise a glass together. Try these hot holiday craft cocktails to stay warm and add some fun to this year's festivities.

A Guide to Hot Craft Cocktail Recipes

1. Ukrainian Winter Punch

Uzvar, or Ukrainian winter punch, is made with dried prunes, apricots, apples, and sour cherries. The fruit is simmered in a large pot of water over low heat along with vanilla, cinnamon, lemon, and orange zest.

The spices are then adjusted to taste. Finally, a shot of brandy is added to the mix. This drink is family-friendly since the alcohol can be left out for the kids. Sip on it to stay warm when the weather outside is frightful. 

2. Warm Tea-and-Cider Punch

To make this modern take on a hot toddy, six cups of fresh apple cider are brought to a boil. Then, the heat is reduced and the liquid is simmered until the cider has reduced to three cups. Once the heat is removed, one sliced lemon and eight English breakfast tea bags are added.

After steeping for four minutes, the tea bags are tossed. Finally, 4.5 ounces of bourbon are stirred in. Again, this craft cocktail can be adapted for kids by setting aside some of the pre-bourbon mixture.

3. Hot Buttered Rum

This drink is the epitome of indulgence. It’s made by smoothing two tablespoons of softened butter with 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and one teaspoon of powdered sugar.

Next, 1/4 of a cup of water is boiled. The butter mixture is added to a tumbler while the hot water is poured over it. Then, two shots of spiced rum join the mixture as the butter melts. Drink it for dessert on a cold winter day. 

Starlite Lounge & Banquet Room of Lincoln, NE, is committed to their clients' health and safety. Although COVID-19 has limited the capacity to host events, they still want to find ways to help you celebrate the holidays—for example, with these tasty cocktail recipes. This bar and lounge provides happy hour drinks, microbrews, and craft cocktails in a retro atmosphere reminiscent of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. Visit their website to learn more about their specials, or call (402) 475-8822 with questions.