There’s nothing more comforting than curling up in front of a warm fire with a good cup of hot chocolate or mulled cider. Warm beverages have a way of taking the bluster out of a cold winter day. The ideas for a warm beverage are endless. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started on that cup of warmth.
Hot Chocolate – Kids and adults savor the taste of hot chocolate. Warm milk, chocolate and marshmallows have a way of soothing us. Today packaged hot chocolate mix is in abundance. There are numerous types and various flavors. Yet there’s nothing quite like homemade hot chocolate to warm and sooth a cold and tired body.
Mulled Cider – Apple cider is a great way to warm up on a blustery day. Mulled cider gets its comforting effect from spices infused in the flavor during heating. Cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves are the spices most often used. Mace, ginger, allspice, orange slices and lemon zest can also bring out the flavor of a mulled cider. It’s best to use whole spices to achieve a full flavor. Ground spices may be used, but the taste will differ slightly.
For the best results when making mulled cider, steep the cider over low heat. Simmering the cider for a couple of hours will bring out the best flavor. Do not boil the cider or the taste may become bitter. To keep your cider warm, place it in the crock pot after simmering.
