Gatlinburg's Best Winter Beverages and Treats

Winter in Gatlinburg is a magical time, with snow-capped mountains, festive lights, and a crisp chill in the air that makes you want to cozy up with something warm and delicious. Whether you're wandering through the twinkling streets of downtown or relaxing in a cabin by the fire, indulging in Gatlinburg's best winter beverages and treats is a must. From steaming hot chocolates to decadent desserts, here’s a guide to the seasonal delights that will keep you warm and satisfied during your winter visit to Gatlinburg.

1. Hot Chocolate at The Village Café & Creamery

There’s nothing quite like a rich, creamy hot chocolate to warm you up on a cold winter’s day, and The Village Café & Creamery offers one of the best in town. Located in the charming Village Shops, this café is a cozy spot to take a break from exploring and enjoy a comforting cup of hot cocoa.

• What to Try: Their classic hot chocolate is made with real melted chocolate and topped with whipped cream, creating a luscious, velvety drink that’s perfect for sipping as you stroll through the festively decorated Village Shops. For a fun twist, try their peppermint hot chocolate, which adds a refreshing minty flavor to the traditional drink.
• Why You’ll Love It: The Village Café & Creamery offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can escape the winter chill. The rich, decadent hot chocolate is a true winter indulgence that’s sure to delight both kids and adults.

Pro Tip: Pair your hot chocolate with one of their freshly baked cookies or pastries for an extra special treat.

2. Apple Cider at The Apple Barn

When it comes to winter beverages, nothing says "cozy" quite like a mug of warm apple cider. The Apple Barn, located just a short drive from Gatlinburg in Sevierville, is the perfect place to enjoy this classic winter drink. Known for its apple-based products, The Apple Barn offers some of the best cider in the Smokies.

• What to Try: The Apple Barn’s warm apple cider is made from fresh, locally grown apples, and is spiced just right with cinnamon and cloves. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a comforting warmth that’s ideal for a chilly winter day. You can also pick up a bottle of their cider to take home and enjoy later.
• Why You’ll Love It: The Apple Barn’s cider is a true taste of the Smokies, capturing the essence of the region’s apple orchards in every sip. The charming setting of The Apple Barn makes it a delightful stop on your winter adventure, and the aroma of fresh cider wafting through the air will instantly put you in a festive mood.

Pro Tip: Pair your cider with one of The Apple Barn’s famous apple fritters or a slice of their apple pie for a truly indulgent winter treat.

3. Seasonal Lattes at Coffee & Company

For coffee lovers, a stop at Coffee & Company in The Village Shops is a must during your winter visit to Gatlinburg. This locally owned coffee shop offers a variety of seasonal lattes that are perfect for warming up on a frosty day. The cozy, rustic atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and recharge.

• What to Try: The Gingerbread Latte is a seasonal favorite, combining the rich flavors of espresso with the warm spices of gingerbread, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Another popular choice is the Peppermint Mocha, which blends the classic combination of chocolate and mint with a shot of espresso for a festive pick-me-up.
• Why You’ll Love It: Coffee & Company’s seasonal lattes are crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients and locally roasted coffee beans. The cozy ambiance of the shop, along with the friendly service, makes it a welcoming spot to escape the cold and enjoy a delicious, warming drink.

Pro Tip: Grab a seat by the window to watch the snow fall as you sip your latte, or take your drink to-go and enjoy it while exploring the nearby Village Shops.

4. Fudge and Caramel Apples at Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

No winter trip to Gatlinburg would be complete without a visit to Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, a local institution known for its delicious handmade treats. During the winter season, their rich fudge and caramel apples are particularly irresistible.

• What to Try: The fudge at Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen comes in a variety of flavors, but for a winter treat, try the chocolate peppermint or chocolate walnut fudge. The caramel apples are another must-try, featuring crisp apples coated in thick, buttery caramel, with some varieties rolled in nuts or drizzled with chocolate.
• Why You’ll Love It: Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen has been delighting visitors with its sweet confections for decades, and the quality of their handmade treats is unmatched. The rich, indulgent flavors of their fudge and caramel apples are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during the colder months.

Pro Tip: Buy an assortment of fudge to take home as a sweet reminder of your trip, or to share with friends and family during the holidays.

5. Hot Toddy at The Fox & Parrot Tavern

For those looking to enjoy a warming winter cocktail, The Fox & Parrot Tavern in Gatlinburg offers a cozy, English-style pub atmosphere where you can sip on a classic hot toddy. This traditional drink, made with whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water, is the perfect remedy for a chilly evening.

• What to Try: The hot toddy at The Fox & Parrot Tavern is a must-try, offering a soothing blend of warmth and flavor that’s perfect for winter nights. If you prefer something sweeter, try their mulled wine, which is spiced and heated to perfection.
• Why You’ll Love It: The Fox & Parrot Tavern is a unique spot in Gatlinburg, offering an authentic British pub experience with a cozy, laid-back vibe. The hot toddy, served in a warm, inviting atmosphere, is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the Smokies.

Pro Tip: Pair your hot toddy with one of the tavern’s hearty British pub dishes, like bangers and mash or shepherd’s pie, for a comforting winter meal.

6. Warm, Gooey Cinnamon Rolls at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp

Start your winter mornings in Gatlinburg with a visit to Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, where you’ll find some of the best cinnamon rolls in town. These giant, gooey rolls are a decadent treat that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.

• What to Try: The cinnamon rolls at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp are legendary for their size and flavor. Warm, soft, and generously coated with icing, these rolls are perfect for sharing—or for indulging all on your own. Pair one with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for the ultimate winter breakfast.
• Why You’ll Love It: Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is known for its hearty, delicious breakfasts, and the cinnamon rolls are no exception. The rustic, mountain-themed decor adds to the cozy ambiance, making it a great place to fuel up before a day of winter activities.

Pro Tip: Arrive early, as Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is popular and can fill up quickly, especially during the winter holiday season.

Gatlinburg’s winter beverages and treats offer a delicious way to stay warm and indulge in the flavors of the season. Whether you’re sipping on a rich hot chocolate, savoring a warm cinnamon roll, or enjoying a festive cocktail, these cozy delights are sure to add a touch of sweetness to your winter adventure in the Smokies. So bundle up, head out into the winter wonderland of Gatlinburg, and treat yourself to the best seasonal flavors the town has to offer.