7 Hot Drinks To Keep You Warm This Winter

Spiced apple cider is a quintessential winter drink that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices. To elevate this classic, consider infusing your cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and fresh ginger. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also provide health benefits, such as improved digestion and circulation.

1. Start with a base of fresh apple cider.

2. Add whole cinnamon sticks, a few cloves, and slices of fresh ginger to the pot.

3. Simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg and star anise.

5. Garnish with sliced apples and a drizzle of caramel for a festive touch.

This spiced apple cider is perfect for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening by the fire, offering both comfort and a seasonal flair.

1. In a saucepan, combine cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt.

2. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Stir in a handful of chocolate chips or a bar of dark chocolate for extra richness.

4. Once melted and smooth, remove from heat and pour into mugs.

5. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an added treat.

For a more sophisticated twist, consider adding a dash of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a hint of chili powder to give your hot chocolate a unique kick.

1. Start with a bottle of red wine—merlot or cabernet sauvignon works well.

2. Add slices of orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to the pot.

3. Sweeten with honey or sugar, and for an extra kick, add a splash of brandy.

4. Heat gently, ensuring the wine doesn’t boil, for about 20 minutes.

5. Serve in mugs or heatproof glasses, garnished with an orange slice or cinnamon stick.

Mulled wine not only warms you from the inside out but also fills your space with a delightful, festive aroma that’s sure to put everyone in a cheerful mood.

1. In a mug, combine hot water with a shot of whiskey.

2. Stir in honey and lemon juice to taste.

3. Add a cinnamon stick for warmth and a few cloves for depth of flavor.

4. Optionally, garnish with a lemon slice or star anise.

The hot toddy is believed to help alleviate cold symptoms thanks to its combination of warming alcohol, soothing honey, and vitamin C from the lemon. Whether you’re sipping it for its health benefits or simply for pleasure, this drink is a winter essential.

1. Brew a strong cup of black tea, using either tea bags or loose leaves.

2. In a separate pot, heat milk with cinnamon sticks, crushed cardamom pods, ginger slices, and a dash of black pepper.

3. Once the milk is infused with spices, strain it and mix with the brewed tea.

4. Sweeten with honey or sugar, and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

For a caffeine-free version, you can omit the tea and simply infuse the milk with spices, creating a soothing beverage that’s just as satisfying.

1. Peel and slice fresh ginger root, about 1-2 inches per cup.

2. Add the ginger slices to boiling water and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.

3. Strain the tea into a mug and add honey and lemon to taste.

This tea is particularly beneficial for digestion and can help alleviate nausea or cold symptoms. Plus, it’s naturally caffeine-free, making it a perfect choice for any time of day.

1. Brew a strong cup of your favorite coffee.

2. Add flavored syrups like caramel, hazelnut, or peppermint for a holiday twist.

3. Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added indulgence.

Creating the perfect winter drink experience goes beyond just the beverage itself—it’s also about how you serve it. Here’s why you should consider incorporating high-quality accessories into your drink service this winter:

• Insulation And Comfort: Paper coffee cups, especially when paired with coffee cup sleeves, offer excellent insulation, keeping drinks warm while protecting hands from heat. This ensures a comfortable drinking experience, even on the go.

• Convenience And Portability: Disposable coffee cups are perfect for take-out orders, reducing cleanup and allowing customers to enjoy their drinks wherever they go. Pair them with coffee carriers for added convenience, especially for large orders.

• Enhancing Presentation: Use coffee stirrers and coffee cup lids to elevate the presentation of your beverages. These small details add a touch of professionalism and ensure that drinks are enjoyed at the perfect temperature.

• Serving Larger Crowds: For larger gatherings, thermal carafes, and coffee urns are essential for keeping drinks hot and easily accessible. These are perfect for buffets, events, or high-volume settings.

• Elegant Touch: For a more refined presentation, consider using coffee mugs, tea cups, and teapots. These options add an elegant touch to any occasion, making your winter drinks not only delicious but also visually appealing.

With these accessories, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances your customers’ overall experience, ensuring they stay cozy and satisfied throughout the winter months.

Hot drinks are more than just a comfort during cold weather; they offer several health benefits that can make them a valuable addition to your winter routine. Here’s why:

• Boosts Circulation: Drinking hot beverages helps to stimulate blood flow, which can be especially beneficial during colder months when circulation tends to slow down. Improved circulation helps in maintaining body warmth and reducing the risk of cold-related conditions.

• Aids Digestion: Hot drinks, such as herbal teas and warm water with lemon, can aid in digestion by relaxing the digestive tract and easing the process of breaking down food. This can be particularly helpful after a heavy meal, a common occurrence during the holiday season.

• Soothes Sore Throats: The warmth of hot drinks can help soothe sore throats and alleviate symptoms of colds or the flu. Ingredients like honey, ginger, and lemon, commonly found in hot drinks, also have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, providing an added boost to your immune system.

• Relieves Stress: The ritual of sipping a hot drink can be incredibly calming, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation. The warmth of the drink combined with its soothing properties can create a moment of tranquility in an otherwise busy day.

While it might seem counterintuitive to drink something hot when you’re already feeling chilly, hot drinks can be beneficial in cold weather. Here’s why:

• Internal Warming Effect: When you drink a hot beverage, it increases your body’s core temperature. This internal warming effect helps to counteract the chill from the outside environment, making you feel warmer overall.

• Psychological Comfort: There’s something inherently comforting about holding and sipping a warm drink on a cold day. This psychological comfort can enhance your mood and make cold days more bearable, turning a simple drink into a soothing ritual.

• Promotes Hydration: It’s easy to forget to stay hydrated in winter, but hot drinks can encourage you to drink more fluids. Whether it’s herbal tea, hot water with lemon, or a warm broth, these beverages help keep you hydrated, which is essential for overall health, especially during cold months.

As winter approaches, embrace the opportunity to experiment with a variety of hot drinks that not only taste delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. With the right blend of flavors and the perfect serving accessories, you can create a truly cozy and memorable experience for yourself and your guests.

Explore our range of drinkware and accessories in our coffee shop supplies page to elevate your winter drink offerings. Whether you’re preparing for a busy café service or a quiet evening at home, these tools will help you serve up warmth and comfort all season long.