Warm Holiday Drink Recipes

Alas, the first major snowfall of the season! Winter, it seems, has finally arrived… and with a BANG! These drink recipes are great for entertaining guests or enjoying alone with a good book. Regardless of how you enjoy them, these festive drinks should keep you toasty warm this holiday season.

Christmas Cider

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp whole allspice
  • 1 tbsp whole cloves
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • zest of 1 orange (or orange peel with pith removed)
  • 2 slices peeled fresh ginger, 1/2 -inch thick slices
  • 1/2 gallon organic apple cider (or low-sulfide red wine if you’re so inclined)

Directions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat cider over medium-high heat
  2. Place allspice, cloves, cinnamon, orange zest and ginger into a cheesecloth and tie with a string. Place cheesecloth with spices into the saucepan.
  3. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally for 6-8 minutes or until desired flavor is achieved (I like to let it simmer as guests arrive – it makes the house smell delicious and festive!)
  4. Remove spice pouch and serve warm
  5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick (optional)

– Dr. Angela Warburton, TCMP

Healthy Holiday Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp raw, unsweetened cacao powder
  • 1 tbsp organic coconut oil
  • 1-2 tsp raw honey
  • pinch of sea salt
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk

Directions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend for 20 seconds. You can also combine all ingredients in a pot and whisk until all ingredients are combined.
  2. Serve and enjoy!

– Kristin Tait, Holistic Nutritionist

Citrus Spice Tea

Ingredients:

  • 4 pieces dried orange peel
  • 5 leaves fresh mint
  • 3 whole green cardamom pods
  • 2 two-inch pieces grapefruit zest

Directions:

  1. Toss all ingredients in a teapot
  2. Pour boiling water into the teapot and allow the ingredients to steep for approximately 10 minutes.
  3. Strain through a mesh sieve and enjoy!

– Recipe by Dr. Angela Warburton, TCMP & Toronto-based chef, Joshna Maharaj