The Christmas atmosphere isn’t complete without a hot drink in your hands, warming not just your body but also your heart.
Whether you’re planning an evening by the fireplace, a family gathering, or a moment of solo relaxation, hot drinks are a must.
Here are three irresistible recipes: traditional mulled wine, creamy hot chocolate, and aromatic teas perfect for cold evenings.
Mulled wine: the magic of Christmas in a glass
Mulled wine is an ancient drink that embodies the essence of Christmas.
Warm, spiced, and with a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for winter evenings.
Ingredients for 6 servings
- 1 liter of red wine (preferably full-bodied, such as Merlot or Sangiovese)
- 150 g of sugar
- 2 oranges (one for juicing, one for slices)
- 1 lemon (zest only)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 cloves
- 1 star anise
- a pinch of nutmeg
Preparation
- In a large pot, pour the red wine and add the sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Juice one orange and add it to the wine, along with slices of the second orange and the lemon zest.
- Add the spices: cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and nutmeg.
- Heat over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Strain the mulled wine and serve it hot in heat-resistant glasses.
Tip: customize the mulled wine by adding a touch of vanilla or a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier.
Hot chocolate: creamy and indulgent
Hot chocolate is a timeless classic for the holidays.
Making it at home is easy and allows you to create a creamy drink without additives or preservatives.
Ingredients for 4 cups
- 500 ml of milk (or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for a vegan version)
- 100 g of dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- 20 g of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 30 g of sugar (optional, to taste)
- 15 g of cornstarch
Preparation
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over low heat without bringing it to a boil.
- Meanwhile, mix cocoa powder, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Gradually add the dry mix to the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted.
- Bring the hot chocolate to a light boil until it thickens.
- Serve with whipped cream, cinnamon, or marshmallows.
Creative variation: add a sprinkle of chili for a spicy kick or orange zest for a citrusy touch.
Christmas teas: relaxation and winter aromas
Teas are ideal for those who want a warm and light drink.
Experimenting with spices and natural aromas lets you create unique blends tailored to the festive season.
Christmas spice tea
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 piece of fresh ginger
- 2 cloves
- 1 slice of dried orange
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
Preparation
- Boil 500 ml of water.
- Add the spices and let steep for 5–7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and sweeten with honey if desired.
Fruity red berry tea
- 1 tablespoon of dried rose hips
- 1 tablespoon of dried hibiscus
- 1 piece of dried apple
- 1 teaspoon of brown sugar (optional)
Tip: prepare tea sachets at home using food-safe gauze and ribbons to gift to your guests during the holidays.
Tips for a special touch
- Homemade spices: toast the spices lightly to enhance their aromas.
- Drink decorations: use cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, or star anise to decorate your mugs.
- Sustainability: choose sustainably sourced spices and cocoa, and opt for organic wine.
Homemade Christmas hot drinks are not only delicious but also a way to create moments of sharing and joy.
With these recipes, you can bring the magic of Christmas into your kitchen and warm up your festivities with authentic and rich aromas of tradition.
All that’s left is to light up your tree, play some Christmas music, and enjoy a steaming cup.