The Best Drinks to Keep You Warm During the Holidays

Nothing helps keep the cold out during the holiday season better than a warm, delicious holiday drink. And with the rash of bitterly cold temperatures that have swept the nation during the holiday season this year, everyone is looking for any way they can find to stay warm. Of course, there are always the traditional stand-bys - warm eggnog, hot coffee or hot chocolate. Sometimes you just want something different. I have shared a couple of my favorite, easy holiday drink recipes here. Now, if you are looking for alcoholic beverages, I can't help you, but if you want family-friendly non-alcoholic drinks, these recipes are sure to please everyone!

Steamed Caramel Apple Cider

This is a quick, easy drink. You'll need a coffee mug. Fill it up with your favorite kind of apple juice, leaving about 1/4 to 1/8 inch of room in the top of the mug. I like to use Mott's Organic Apple Juice - it's healthy and tastes wonderful. Sprinkle powdered cinnamon liberally across the top of the apple juice, and then heat it in the microwave for around a minute. Make sure it's nice and hot. Then, if you like, you can top your drink with whipped cream, and some caramel sauce. You can find the caramel sauce with the ice cream toppings and syrups in your local grocery store. Then you're ready to drink!

(Note: This drink is actually very healthy, if you don't add whipped creme or caramel, so it's great for those of us who are watching our waistlines).

Easy Mocha Latte

If you have a latte machine, it's always the best way to make a latte. For those of us that aren't lucky enough to have a latte machine, we can still make a great latte in the comfort of home. Grab your favorite coffee mug. Fill it with your favorite kind of milk, leaving about an inch in the top of the cup. Heat the milk up on the stove or in the microwave (I prefer the microwave, because I am severely lacking in the patience department). You can then add chocolate syrup, or hot chocolate mix, and stir well. Brew a couple of ounces of your favorite coffee, and add to the warm chocolate concoction. Top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup or cinnamon sprinkles and enjoy. Delicious!

Eggnog Latte

An eggnog latte is simple to make, and is similar to the Mocha Latte recipe listed above. You'll want to heat a half cup of milk in the microwave or on your stovetop. Then heat a half cup of eggnog. Mix the two together, sprinkle with nutmeg, and you have a delicious new twist on eggnog.

Enjoy, and have a wonderful, safe holiday season!You don't have to leave your home to enjoy a great holiday beverage!