Five Easy & Scrumptious Holiday at-home Drinks

The holiday season is officially upon us and no matter how you celebrate, we all can use a cozy beverage. Today, we’ve curated five recipes, two of them caffeine free, with a mix of easy to make at home drinks and some a little more fancy. Share with guests, friends, and family to spread some holiday cheer. 

1. Spicy Mocha

Quick and easy, this simple yet indulgent beverage is perfect for doing work on a cozy afternoon or opt for no espresso and have while you read a book before bed. All of the ingredients you should already have around the house:

1. 1 ½ C Oat milk (I used this oatmilk by Califia Farms)
2. 2 Tbsp Cocoa powder (I prefer this dutch processed Cocoa powder)
3. 1 Tbsp Sweetener 
4. 1 tsp Cinnamon 
5. Shake of turmeric
6. ⅛ tsp Cayenne 
7. ¼ tsp Salt
8. Double shot of espresso
9. Optional: nutmeg and ginger

Begin by warming up your milk either over the stove or in the microwave until it reaches your ideal temperature. Add the cocoa powder and whisk. Then, add the rest of the ingredients and mix until combined.  Pour into your favorite mug, top with whipped cream (I used this coconut whipped cream by TrueWhip) and enjoy any time of day.

2. Peppermint White Chocolate Eggnog

If you read our previous post on the best holiday drinks in Minneapolis, you already know how much I love eggnog. For this recipe, you can opt to make your own, or buy from the store. 

1. 1 C Eggnog, I recommend this recipe by The Food Network for homemade, otherwise I used this nondairy nog from Califia Farms)
2. 2 Tbsp White chocolate morsels
3. ¼ tsp Peppermint extract
4. Optional: mini candy cane for decor (I found mine here) 

If you enjoy your eggnog warm, begin by heating it up over the stove or in the microwave. Warm up the white chocolate morsels in the microwave for 30 seconds on and off, stirring in between heating. Once melted, add to your eggnog along with the peppermint extract and whisk. Garnish as you like, I chose a mini candy cane. This drink is easy and simple, unless you’re making your own eggnog, then it’s a labor of love. However, this is a quick way to mix up your usual eggnog and impress everyone around. Add a crushed candy cane rim for an extra insta worthy shot.  

3. Festive Spiced Cider

This recipe is made for a party, perfect for appetizers before christmas dinner or for family and friends with breakfast. A huge plus, it will make your house smell amazing. 

1. 1 Gallon Apple Cider 
2. 2 Tbsp Whole Cloves
3. 6 Cinnamon sticks
4. Peel of one orange

Begin by pouring all of your apple cider into a large pot. Begin to warm the cider on the stovetop. Add all of your ingredients to the pot and let boil for 5 minutes, then reduce heat and wait until the spiced cider reaches an ideal temperature for you. Let boil longer for a stronger infusion of flavors. Ladle into cups and serve with a cinnamon stick or orange peel for garnish. This beverage is a crowd pleaser and if perfect to sip with company. 

  4. Gingerbread latte 

Warm and cozy, this at home latte will taste like its coming right from a cafe counter. With ingredients you already may have in your cupboard, this is a fantastic way to start your holiday morning or enjoy while wrapping presents. 

1. ½ tsp ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves 
2. 1 tsp vanilla 
3. 1 ½ C oat milk
4. 1 Tbsp molasses 
5. 2 Tbsp brown sugar
6. Double shot of espresso or ¼ cup dark brewed coffee 

Start by steaming your milk, then pulling two shots of espresso or pouring your drink into a mug. Add the molasses and brown sugar and whisk until incorporated smoothly. Then add the remaining ingredients and whisk. Top off with steamed milk and ganish with a dusting of cinnamon. A great combo with this drink is a homemade gingerbread cookie, my favorite recipe is this one, by the Preppy Kitchen. 

5. Honeybun Matcha 

Matcha at home is both a rewarding and hard practice. Finding the right matcha can be difficult, however I’ve found my favorite. I love this matcha from Golde and use it on mornings when I don’t feel like drinking coffee. This honeybun matcha recipe is the perfect way to switch up my matcha for the holidays and even serve to my friends who aren’t so keen on the green tea drink.

1. 1 tsp matcha powder
2. 1 ½ C macadamia milk, check your local co-op or target, otherwise sub for oat milk
3. 1 Tbsp honey 
4. 1 ½  tsp cinnamon 
5. ¼ tsp almond extract 

Begin by whisking your matcha powder with a couple Tbsp of boiling water. After incorporated, add the honey, cinnamon, and almond to the match and whisk. Pour into a mug and add steamed milk on top. Garnish with a dusting of cinnamon and enjoy this cozy matcha. 

We hope you get a chance to try out some of our holiday recipes and let us know what you think! Add a picture of your at home drink and tag us on instagram, @16ozdays and we will make sure to repost it. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our previous post on the best seasonal drinks in MPLS for plenty of ideas. Enjoy your holidays, hug your family, and enjoy some good coffee this weekend. 

-Written by Grace McDonald