Seasonal Sips - Warming Beverages for the Cooler Months
There's nothing better than a warm cup of steaming goodness when the weather turns cooler. Get cozy as you warm up with these Atwell favorite recipes.
Host a tea party.
Steam over this fun fact: January is National Hot Tea Month! What better time to host an afternoon tea party in your Atwell home. Break out those heirloom cups and saucers you rarely use, and let your guests experience some of the literally thousands of tea options on the market. For a good variety, include a black tea, green tea, herbal or two, and a decaf version. Don’t forget to serve some nibbles, like rainbow tea sandwiches.
Take hot chocolate to a new level.
Perhaps nothing is cozier – and will bring out your inner child faster – than a rich mug of hot chocolate. With a few extra touches, you can turn a basic cup of hot chocolate into a delightful gourmet Mexican Hot Chocolate. Serve it with cinnamon sticks and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Better yet, set up a hot chocolate bar in your Atwell kitchen for a great cool weather addition to any gathering. Set out jars of toppings – chocolate flakes, sprinkles, miniature marshmallows and candies – and various flavored syrups and spices. Complete the display with freshly whipped cream and homemade hot chocolate spoons.
Be your own barista.
In the mood for a gourmet coffee on a chilly day? Show off your barista skills with homemade vanilla, pumpkin spiced or caramel latte that will rival even the trendiest of coffee houses. Add in some Bailey’s for a yummy after-dinner treat.
If you love a warm beverage on a cool day but don’t love the calories many of them contain, don’t despair. You can impress your friends, your tastebuds and your scale with this easy homemade peppermint hot chocolate. It weighs in at just under 200 calories of warm deliciousness.
Smell the cider.
Fill your entire Atwell home with the enticing aroma of hot apple cider. Try this one made with butternut squash for a twist on a traditional winter favorite. Add bourbon or not, your choice! For other adult-approved variations, try an apple cider hot toddy or a batch of mulled hot spiced wine with blackberries.