Cold!
As the temperature drops and the chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm drink to fend off the cold weather cold.
Whether you’re relaxing by the fireplace or coming in from a snowy day, cold weather beverages have the unique ability to comfort and warm the soul. With so many options available, from traditional favorites to more exotic choices, here are some of the best drinks to enjoy during the cold weather season.
1. Hot Chocolate
One of the most beloved cold weather beverages is undoubtedly hot chocolate. Rich, creamy, and sweet, it’s a timeless classic that never fails to bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
You can go for the traditional version made from cocoa powder, milk, and sugar, or opt for a more luxurious take using real melted chocolate for a thicker, richer texture.
To make it even cozier, top it off with whipped cream or marshmallows. For those looking to add an adult twist, a dash of peppermint schnapps or Baileys Irish Cream can make it a decadent treat.
2. Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a must-try cold weather beverage. This drink is essentially red wine simmered with a combination of spices like cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and orange peel, giving it a wonderfully warming and aromatic flavor.
It’s typically served hot and is perfect for sipping slowly during cold evenings. Mulled wine has been enjoyed for centuries across Europe, and its versatility means you can adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.
3. Sake (Japanese Rice Wine)
For something a bit different and culturally unique, sake is an excellent option during the cold weather months. This traditional Japanese rice wine can be served either warm or cold, but in the chilly cold weather season, warmed sake—also known as kanzake—is especially popular.
The subtle, delicate flavors of sake are enhanced when heated, making it a wonderfully soothing drink to sip on a frosty night. Not only does warm sake provide comfort, but it also enhances the umami flavors found in cold weather dishes.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a Japanese meal, sake brings an exotic warmth to any cold weather gathering.
4. Apple Cider
Hot apple cider is a classic fall and cold weather drink, with its rich apple flavor and sweet, spiced aroma. To make it even more special for cold weather, you can add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg for a spiced version that truly embodies the season.
Whether homemade or store-bought, apple cider is a family-friendly drink that warms you from the inside out. For adults, a splash of bourbon or rum can turn this into a spirited cold weather cocktail.
5. Chai Tea Latte
Originating from India, chai tea latte is a fragrant and spicy drink that’s perfect for cold weather.
Made by brewing black tea with a mix of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and black pepper, chai tea has a bold flavor that’s both warming and invigorating.
When combined with steamed milk and a bit of sweetener, it becomes a creamy, comforting beverage that’s perfect for sipping on cold mornings or evenings. Its rich blend of spices is also believed to have immune-boosting properties, which is an added bonus during cold and flu season.
Conclusion
Cold weather offers a variety of warming beverages to help you stay cozy and content throughout the colder months. From the rich sweetness of hot chocolate to the exotic warmth of sake, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting drink to sip on a quiet evening or a festive option to serve at a holiday gathering, these cold weather drinks will not only keep you warm but also make the season more delightful.
