As the weather turns colder and  colder, many people are beginning to  forsake their martinis and other chilled  concoctions for something a little cozier.

Hot libations, from homemade hot  apple cider to cappuccino, can be the  perfect recipe for warding off winter’s  chill. Jason Edwards, bar manager at Star  Bar on Ingersoll Avenue, said that though  most of his customers stick to their yearround  drink of choice even in the winter,  hot beverages do become more popular  as the temperatures drop.

The hot toddy (whiskey, honey, lemon  juice, a cinnamon stick and boiling water)  and Irish coffee (Irish whiskey and coffee)  are among the most popular of these  heated bar drinks, but there are many  options. Here are a few favorites:

Toasted Almond  1 shot amaretto  1 shot vodka  1/2 shot Kahlua  Half-and-half  Warm half-and-half in small saucepan over  low heat until steaming. Add amaretto,  vodka and Kahlua. Stir to mix and serve.

Jamaican Java  1 shot dark rum  1 shot dark creme de cacao  Hot coffee  Rim mug or coffee glass with lime juice,  then sugar; pour in spirits and then hot  coffee. Stir to mix, and top with whipped  cream and cinnamon before serving.

Hot Hopper  1/2 shot creme de menthe  1 shot white creme de cacao  1/2 shot Baileys Irish Cream  Hot chocolate  Mix spirits in mug or coffee glass, add hot  chocolate and top with whipped cream  and mint leaf.

When making the drinks, remember to  heat the coffee, chocolate or hot water,  not the liquor. Heat causes alcohol to  evaporate, thus rendering the entire  procedure virtually pointless.