As autumn fades into winter and temperatures outdoors begin to fall, hot drinks become more and more popular. Teas, coffees, and other delicious concoctions are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings of friends and family. These drink recipes will keep holiday guests warm and smiling!
Instant Chai Tea Mix
Chai tea is a wonderful blend of spices and tea that has grown wildly popular in recent years. There are many variations on this tea drink; this recipe is for an instant mix. The mix can be made in large batches for quick and easy serving at a later time, and can also be put into jars and given as Christmas gifts!
Most chai recipes, including this one, call for milk. This particular mix uses dried milk. Check at health food stores for dairy-free substitutes to make a mix acceptable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Makes about 36 servings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry milk powder
- 1 1/4 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
- 3/4 cup French vanilla flavored powdered non-dairy creamer
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups instant tea, plain and unsweetened
- 2 tablespoons ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients.
- Using a food processor or blender, and working in small batches, blend and chop the ingredients until they become a fine powder. This will make the mix dissolve more quickly and easily when added to water.
- Add two heaping tablespoons of the mixture to a mug of hot water to serve.
- Store any leftover mix in a dry place and inside of an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Holiday Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon and French Vanilla
Hot chocolate is a perennial favorite of children and adults alike. This cinnamon- and French vanilla-laced recipe is perfect for the holiday season, and is also a dry mix that can be packaged and used as a Christmas gift.
Makes about 20 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups dry milk powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup French vanilla flavored powdered non-dairy creamer
- 3/4 cup unsweetened, powdered baking cocoa
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
- Mix together all ingredients in a large bowl until evenly blended.
- To serve, add 2 heaping tablespoons of hot chocolate mix to a mug of hot water or milk. Garnish with a handful of miniature marshmallows.
- Store leftover powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Jamaican Coffee
For those who prefer a warm drink with a slight alcoholic kick, this variation on regular brewed coffee is a good option. Adult holiday guests will enjoy this coffee beverage as an after-dinner treat, or as a warmer alternative during cocktail hour!
Ingredients:
- 3/4 ounce coffee flavored liqueur
- 3/4 ounce spiced rum
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
- Cinnamon stick
Directions:
- Add coffee liqueur and spiced rum to coffee and stir.
- Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and a whole stick of cinnamon.
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