Don’t you love going to parties where there’s a slow cooker of mulled wine? There are wineries that have these going throughout the holidays in their tasting rooms, and for good reason. When you come in out of the cold, a cup of mulled wine—or hot chocolate, or hot cider—will warm you to your core.

The slow cooker is your holiday friend for drinks, too, giving you the ability to slow-cook the ingredients until well blended, and then keep the drinks warm for the evening.

This chapter contains a variety of wonderful holiday libations for nights when you want to cozy up with family, friends, or even serve carolers as they come through. Consider a classic mulled wine, or make an outrageous hot chocolate, or inspire Santa’s helpers with an Irish Cream Dream. A selection of festive mugs, a few nibbles, and you’re good to go.