When the evenings turn dark and cold, few things are as comforting as a warm mug in your hands. Not every winter drink needs alcohol, though. Whether you are hosting friends, staying in with the family or simply want something soothing before bed, these alcohol-free drinks are easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in the kitchen.
1. Spiced Apple Warmer
This is a lovely alternative to mulled wine and fills the house with a festive smell.
You will need:
- 1 litre cloudy apple juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 or 4 whole cloves
- 2 slices of fresh orange
- A small piece of fresh ginger, sliced
How to make it: Put everything in a saucepan and heat gently for about 10 to 15 minutes without letting it boil. Strain into mugs and garnish with a fresh orange slice. For a less sweet version, mix the apple juice half and half with water or unsweetened cranberry juice.
2. Ginger and Lemon Infusion
Simple, fresh and caffeine free, this is a good choice later in the evening.
You will need:
- A thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger
- Half a lemon
- Honey to taste
- Hot water
How to make it: Slice or grate the ginger and place it in a mug or teapot. Pour over hot water and leave it to steep for five minutes. Add a squeeze of lemon and a little honey. If you enjoy this, you may also like our easy guide to honey lemon tea.
3. Golden Milk
Golden milk is a warm, creamy drink made with turmeric and gentle spices.
You will need:
- 250 ml milk or a plant-based alternative such as oat or almond milk
- Half a teaspoon of ground turmeric
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground ginger
- A small pinch of black pepper
- Honey or maple syrup to taste
How to make it: Whisk everything together in a small pan and warm gently, stirring often, until hot but not boiling. Pour into a mug and sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon. Turmeric can stain, so rinse the pan and whisk straight away.
4. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
A proper hot chocolate made with real chocolate feels like a treat on a cold afternoon.
You will need:
- 250 ml milk or a plant-based alternative
- 30 g dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- A pinch of cinnamon
- A few drops of vanilla extract
How to make it: Warm the milk in a saucepan, then add the chocolate, cocoa and cinnamon. Whisk until the chocolate has melted and the drink is smooth and frothy. Stir in the vanilla and serve. Top with whipped cream or a few marshmallows if you are in the mood for something extra indulgent.
5. Spiced Black Tea
A warming tea with whole spices is a classic winter favourite.
You will need:
- 1 black tea bag or 1 teaspoon loose tea
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- A strip of orange peel
- Milk and sugar or honey, if you like
How to make it: Simmer the spices and orange peel in a cup and a half of water for five minutes, then add the tea and let it steep for two to three minutes. Strain and add milk and sweetener to taste. For more ideas in this style, try our masala tea recipes.
Tips for Your Winter Drinks
- Go easy on sugar. Many warm drinks taste sweet enough with fruit juice or a little honey, so add sweetener gradually.
- Make a big batch. The spiced apple warmer and the spiced tea base can be made in larger quantities and kept warm on a low heat for guests.
- Choose decaf in the evening. If caffeine keeps you awake, use decaffeinated tea or choose the ginger infusion or golden milk instead.
- Use what you have. Star anise, nutmeg, vanilla and citrus peel all work well, so feel free to experiment.
Pour yourself a mug, put your feet up and enjoy the cosy side of winter.