As the holiday season approaches, brisk weather, thick sweaters, crisped autumn foliage and nostalgic tunes arrive. Around this time, many search for a way to capture and experience the holiday spirit, and what better way to do so than through holiday drinks. Beverages like eggnog, apple cider and peppermint mocha are staples for any holiday gathering, movie marathon or evening by the fireplace. Here are some simple, affordable beverage recipes that truly encapsulate the holiday feels. 

Peppermint Hot Chocolate: 6/10 (four servings)

After the first sip, your tastebuds will be immersed in a warm, thick and cozy hot chocolate mixture, just what you might crave on a cold winter’s day. We especially recommend this drink to anyone who has a palette for bittersweet chocolate. For a greater holiday feel, add in more peppermint and consider serving the beverage with some festive candy canes in order to add vibrance and originality.

 Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream 
• 1 ½ cups of milk 
• ¼ cup of white sugar                                                    
• ⅛ teaspoon of salt
• 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 3 drops of peppermint oil 
• [Optional] Sweetened whipped cream 
• [Optional] Chocolate shavings

Directions:

In a saucepan combine milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar and salt over medium-low heat. When the mixture begins to steam, add in the chopped chocolate. Continue stirring the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted. Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the peppermint oil. After it is cooled, divide the drink into mugs and top it with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

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Pungent peppermint, dark chocolate and thick cream make this drink a delicious treat.

Spiced Apple Cider: 9/10 (eight servings)

With a beautiful combination of autumn spices, this drink reminds you of merry  festivities due to its warm, smooth and comforting taste. Golden in color, this drink perfectly complements the brisk outdoor leaves seen during this season. If you want a more tangy flavor, add more spices and let the mixture sit for a longer duration.

Ingredients:

• Store bought apple cider (64 fluid oz) 
• 3 cinnamon sticks 
• 1 teaspoon of whole allspice 
• 1 teaspoon of whole cloves 
• ⅓ cup of brown sugar

Directions:

In a slow cooker or cast iron pan combine apple cider and cinnamon sticks. Then, wrap the allspice and cloves in a small piece of cheesecloth, which can be found at any grocery store. Add the cheesecloth to the pot. Then, stir in the brown sugar. Bring the liquid mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and keep warm. Serve, share and enjoy. 

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Sugar and spice, the ingredients for this spiced apple cider brew are simple and nice.

Eggnog Latte: 6/10 (seven servings)

Even if you are not an egg person, this decadently foamy drink radiates holiday festivity. Unfortunately, there wasn’t quite enough nutmeg, so we suggest being much more generous with spices in this drink. Don’t be afraid to add extra nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves. With such adjustments, this classic holiday drink can truly live up to its expectation and is a must-try during this holiday season. 

Ingredients:

Disclaimer: This recipe contains raw eggs.

• 4 eggs 
• ⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon of white sugar
• 1 pint whole milk 
• 1 cup of heavy whipping cream 
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Directions:

Separate the egg whites from egg yolks. In a stand mixer bowl, beat the egg yolks until they become lighter in color. Slowly add in ⅓ cup of white sugar, then beat the mixture until the sugar has dissolved and is fully smooth. Next add in the milk, cream and nutmeg, and stir the mixture until fully combined. Then place egg whites in a stand mixer bowl and beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add in one tablespoon of sugar, then beat until stiff peaks form. Finally, whisk the egg whites into the mixture. Chill for 45-60 minutes and serve.

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Creamy milk and nutmeg, this staple recipe makes many forget its main ingredient: raw egg.

All these beverages can be made with little to no experience, and with their affordable and easily accessible ingredients, these drinks are a must-try during this holiday season. While apple cider best captures the holiday spirit, we suggest peppermint hot chocolate on cold rainy days and eggnog during dinner. These classic drinks play a crucial role in the edible festivities of this holiday season and we hope you try and enjoy these recipes as well.