Winter in India brings a special charm, distinct from other seasons, especially when it comes to beverages. Unlike the refreshing, cool drinks of summer, winter welcomes hot, comforting options that warm from within. The essence of winter drinks lies in their warmth, spices, and seasonal ingredients that create a soothing experience in every sip. In times like these, one should also think of the children and kids of the house and how they can stay warm, healthy and full of energy during the cold as well. Serving a warm drink to them, which they might start to love, is a great solution. It isn’t just about offering refreshments but making the kids feel loved and appreciated. Try these easy and simple winter drink recipes at home.
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Giving classic hot chocolate a seasonal twist, this gingerbread-infused variation is quite delicious. Made in a slow cooker, it captures the core of gingerbread cookies by combining cocoa with ginger, cinnamon, molasses, and cloves. The slow cooking process allows the flavours to meld beautifully. Guests can enjoy the richness of hot chocolate with a festive flavour profile, topped with marshmallows for a finishing touch. This drink can be served throughout the gathering, making it ideal for day-long events. Hot chocolate is one of the popular drinks in the world that is full of decadence and heavenly flavours. As we are getting closer to the winter season, we all feel a sudden urge to sip on a piping hot yet comforting beverage that can soothe our souls and act as a remedy for chilly nights or nippy mornings. Hot chocolate is the easiest drink you can think of making as you don’t have to worry about the complicated brewing steps and can prepare it in less than a few minutes.
Peppermint Hot Milk
This drink is made by heating milk with a splash of peppermint extract, creating a soothing and aromatic beverage. Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, it’s a treat that’s as festive as it is delicious. The mild minty flavour balances the richness of the milk, making it a comforting choice for both children and adults. Peppermint hot milk is perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at a holiday gathering. You can easily make it by mixing together boiling water, hot chocolate mixture, cocoa powder, mint extract and sugar. Consuming peppermint in winter can shield your kids from falling sick, as it acts as the best remedy for the common cold. This aromatic herb can be added to any drink, from mocktails to cocktails. So don't waste your time complaining about the cold weather and warm your inner souls with peppermint hot milk.
Also Read: 10 Delightful Christmas Snacks For Kids
Orange & Basil Juice
The star of winter produce is the tangy, juicy orange. A vitamin C-rich beverage for flavour and health is ready when you add fresh basil leaves and sweeten it all with honey. This refreshing beverage, which is great for beating the heat, is made with orange and basil. Obtained by encapsulating and combining the zesty oils and tart juices of entire lemons to create the flavour of freshly squeezed oranges, to create the ideal harmony of flavour and scent, four ingredients are combined. These four are the citric acid and vitamin C that give lemons their tartness, lemon oil from the rind, lemon oil from the pith, and lemon juice from the peels. This winter drink recipe makes up for an innovative yet classic version of a regular orange and basil cocktail that is non-alcoholic and suitable for kids.
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Mulled Cranberry Punch
Mulled drinks are perfect for winter, and cranberry punch takes this tradition to a fruity and vibrant level. This mocktail combines cranberry juice with a medley of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Add some apple juice for extra sweetness and warmth. Simmer the mixture gently to allow the flavours to meld together. For added sweetness, you can stir in a bit of honey or maple syrup. Serve hot, and garnish with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange for a festive, wintry drink. Cranberry juice is sometimes sweetened or combined with other fruit liquids to mask its tartness. Cranberries are usually cooked into a compote or jelly, which is called cranberry sauce. Fresh cranberries can be preserved at home for up to nine months and used straight from the freezer in recipes.
Pear And Vanilla Fizz
For a refreshing yet warm mocktail, try combining pear juice with a hint of vanilla and a splash of sparkling water. Heat the pear juice with a vanilla bean or extract until warm, then top with the fizz of sparkling water. This drink offers a perfect balance of sweetness and effervescence, ideal for sipping on cold evenings. Garnish with a pear slice or a cinnamon stick for added flair. Warm vanilla and the sweetness of the fruit combine to create a fizzy delight that's fantastic for your kids when they are lounging at home. Making this recipe takes less than five minutes. When kept in the refrigerator, the mocktail maintains its fizziness for around an hour, making it convenient to make in advance for when your kids crave a glass of something fun and unique.
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