Sometimes on chilly days and especially around the holidays, you want a hot drink that’s something more than just a plain cup of coffee, or tea, to make you feel toasty all over. Hot beverages really do soften the frantic pace of holiday life. You can’t guzzle down a hot drink, it has to be taken in slowly, and while you’re sipping, and blowing, and waiting for that optimum comfortable drinking temperature, you can inhale and warm your nose with its aromatic vapors.
Oh yesss, hot beverages are just what the doctor ordered and here are some drinks that will soothe your soul when the weather outside is frightful!
Mugs up!
Caramel Dipped Apple
12 oz. apple juice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon extract or ground cinnamon
whipped cream
caramel sundae topping
Heat the apple juice in a saucepan on medium-high until simmering and add cinnamon. Serve in a mug, top with whipped cream and caramel. If you want to kick it up a notch, add Smirnoff Vanilla Vodka.
Spiced Coffee Misto
6 oz. brewed coffee
6 oz. hot milk
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Mix all ingredients together in a mug. Be adventurous and add a dash of Bailey’s Irish Cream Pumpkin Spice Liqueur.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Hot Chocolate
1 cup of whole milk
2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
1 tablespoon caramel sundae topping
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Whipped cream
In a small pot set over medium heat, add the milk, chocolate hazelnut spread, sundae topping, and cocoa. Whisk frequently until the mixture is almost at a simmer. Serve hot. Make it a little more interesting by adding a trickle of Mozart Chocolate Cream Liqueur and a dollop of whipped cream.
Spiced Vanilla Pear Apple Cider
2 quarts fresh apple cider
2 quarts pear juice (no sugar added)
2 cinnamon sticks
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1-star anise
1 vanilla bean pod
1 small pear
Add juices and spices to a large soup pot. Slice vanilla bean pod in half lengthwise and toss in pot. On low heat bring the cider up to a simmer, whisking often. The spices and vanilla will infuse into the cider. Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Ladle into a big mug. This will yield about 8 to 10 servings. Garnish with pear slices. Make your toes tingle and add a shot of Wray & Nephew Overproof White Rum.