4 Warm Italian-Inspired Cocktails to Keep You Cosy This Weekend

While I’m dreaming of summer evenings in the garden with a Spritz in hand, the reality is that the UK is freezing right now. (Sunny, yes—but freezing!) Instead of counting down the days to Aperol season, I’m embracing the cold with warm Italian-inspired cocktails that feel indulgent but can still fit within your weight loss goals.

Whether you’re curling up on the sofa on a Friday night or entertaining friends over the weekend, these drinks will bring a little Italian warmth into your home—without going overboard on calories.

1. Vin Brulé (Italian Mulled Wine) – 150 calories per glass

The Italian take on mulled wine, Vin Brulé is a staple in the Alps and perfect for a cosy night in. Warming spices, citrus, and a hint of brandy make this a sophisticated yet comforting choice.

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 250ml red wine (Chianti or Montepulciano)

• 2 tsp sugar

• ½ cinnamon stick

• 1 clove

• 1 star anise

• Zest of ½ orange

• Zest of ½ lemon

• 1 orange slice

• Optional: 25ml brandy for extra warmth

  
  

Method

1. Heat all ingredients in a saucepan over low heat (don’t let it boil).

2. Simmer for 10 minutes, then strain and serve warm.

   
   

Calories: Approx. 150 per serving (without brandy), 190 with brandy

2. Bombardino (The Ultimate Italian Winter Warmer) – 180 calories per serving

A ski resort favourite, Bombardino is basically Italian eggnog with a kick! The name means "little bomb" because of its strong, warming effect.

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 50ml Advocaat or eggnog liqueur

• 25ml brandy or whisky

• 50ml hot milk (or frothed for a luxurious texture)

• Whipped cream (to top)

• A pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder for garnish

  
  

Method

1. Heat the Advocaat and brandy in a small pan (don’t boil).

2. Pour into a heatproof glass, top with hot milk.

3. Finish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

   
   

Calories: Approx. 180 per serving (without whipped cream), 220 with whipped cream

3. Italian Hot Chocolate with Amaretto – 220 calories per serving

This thick, indulgent hot chocolate is perfect for a weekend treat. Using dark chocolate and a little cornstarch creates that real Italian-style texture, and a splash of Amaretto takes it to the next level.

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 250ml whole milk

• 100g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped

• 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickness)

• 1 tsp sugar (optional)

• 25ml Amaretto (or Frangelico for a nutty twist)

• Whipped cream (to top, optional)

  
  

Method

1. Heat the milk in a pan, then stir in the chocolate until melted.

2. Whisk in cornstarch and sugar (if using) until thickened.

3. Stir in the Amaretto, then pour into a mug.

4. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa.

   
   

Calories: Approx. 220 per serving (without whipped cream), 260 with whipped cream

4. Caffè Corretto (Italian ‘Corrected’ Coffee) – 60 calories per serving

If you love coffee and need a little something to take the chill off, Caffè Corretto is the easiest Italian-inspired winter warmer. It’s simply espresso spiked with a splash of alcohol—perfect after dinner or for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 1 shot of espresso (or strong black coffee)

• 25ml grappa, brandy, or Sambuca

  
  

Method

1. Brew espresso and pour into a small cup.

2. Add your chosen spirit and stir.

3. Enjoy as a post-dinner warmer.

   
   

Calories: Approx. 60 per serving

Which one will you try this weekend?

All of these warm Italian cocktails bring a little bit of indulgence without completely derailing your weight loss goals. Whether you go for the cosy Vin Brulé, the creamy Bombardino, the indulgent Italian hot chocolate, or the simple yet strong Caffè Corretto, there’s something for every mood.

Let me know which one you’ll be making! 🍷🔥