During the cold and dark days of winter, it’s comforting to curl your hands around a mug of steaming hot goodness. When days grow darker and the winds sharper, venture in from the brisk outdoors to sip on one of warming winter drinks, including chai, cocoa, cider, hot toddies, mulled wine and much more! Gather in the kitchen, hot drinks in hand, to spend quality time with family and friends, or just sit by the window with a warm mug and gaze out into a winter wonderland.
Winter Drinks to Make at Home
Below we feature some of our best warming drinks throughout the years. From party-worthy drinks perfect for entertaining to calming concoctions well-suited for sipping alone, read on for a collection of some of our favorite winter drink recipes.
Tulsi ChaiIn India, Tulsi Chai, made from holy basil, is used to treat colds and reduce stress. | Spicy Hot CocoaThis trio of cayenne, cinnamon and cardamom will definitely warm you from head to toe. | Basic Black ChaiSensuous, soothing and simply irresistible, this chai is the ideal accompaniment for savory scones or a perfect break on a busy afternoon. |
Pomegranate-Apple CiderThe herb trio in this mulled cider perfectly complements the pomegranate juice. | Lavender Lemon Hot ToddyPerfect for keeping warm on a chilly day, this nonalcoholic recipe combines lavender’s calming benefits with soothing honey and lemon. | Mulled Wine with HerbsThis recipe for mulled wine is inspired by Glögg, a traditional Scandinavian drink which brings warmth and cheer during dark days. |
Holiday SangriaA summer staple, it’s easy to turn sangria into a simple holiday favorite with the addition of a few seasonal ingredients and warming spices. | Ginger BeerCantaloupe and honeydew lend a naturally creamy texture to this citrus blend. | Pineapple Mint PunchRefreshing and festive, this punch makes for a special party treat. |
Peppermint Hot ChocolateThis peppermint hot chocolate is perfect for keeping you warm on a chilly day | Quickie Mexican MochaUse fair-trade, organic chocolate in this recipe that’s at least 70 percent cacao—the darker, the better. | Wonderfully Warming TeaDrink this sweet and lightly spicy tea to warm up on cold winter nights. |
Homemade Pastries, Candies and Winter Spices
What goes better with warm winter drinks than home-baked goodness? These pastries, candies and winter spices are perfect for dunking or munching. Try these recipes alongside your favorite warming drinks for instant winter cheer?
• Rolled Gingerbread Cookies with Coriander Seed
• Saffron-Vanilla Snickerdoodles
• Chamomile Vanilla Marshmallows
• Walnut Rosemary Brittle with Sea Salt
• Chocolate-Dipped Date-Nut Truffles with Coconut
• A Guide to Buying and Cooking with Winter Spices