On a cold winter day, there is nothing better than cozying up with a hot drink that also satisfies the taste buds. Find some toasty beverage inspiration to keep you warm.

The winter is a time to let yourself indulge a little when it comes to food and drink. Whether you want to treat your friends and family or enjoy a warm and rich beverage to wind down for the evening, here are four delicious recipes you can try.

Hot Chocolate

Nothing hits the sweet tooth quite like a sweet and creamy hot chocolate, and whipping up your own homemade version will taste even better.

Ingredients
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup marshmallows

Instructions

1. Pour milk into a saucepan over medium-low heat and whisk in sugar and cocoa powder. Heat until warm, whisking frequently.

2. Add chocolate chips and continue whisking until they are completely melted.

3. Add vanilla extract, whisking to incorporate.

4. Serve immediately and top with a generous helping of marshmallow!

Mulled Wine

Warm, sweet, and wonderfully spiced, mulled wine is a festive drink that can be enjoyed all season long. Any type of red wine will work, so be sure to use your favourite.

Ingredients
• 1 bottle of red wine
• 4 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• Juice and zest of one orange
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 star anise

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.

2. Serve and enjoy!

Chai Tea

Chai tea is exquisitely aromatic and surprisingly savoury. This traditional spiced tea will warm up all of your senses.

Ingredients
• 6 bags black tea
• 2 cups whole milk
• 6 cups water
• 5 cm piece of fresh ginger, cut into rounds
• 2 teaspoons black peppercorn
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 10 whole cloves
• 6 cardamom pods
• 1/2 cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Combine ginger, cinnamon sticks, peppercorn, cloves, and cardamom into a medium saucepan, lightly crushing the spices with a spoon.

2. Add water and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and gently simmer for 10 minutes, partially covered.

3. Steep tea bags for 5 minutes, then discard.

4. Whisk in milk and sugar and bring to a simmer.

5. Strain and serve!

Warm Eggnog

A warm twist on a seasonal favourite typically served chilled, warm eggnog offers all of the flavours you love in a much cozier form.

Ingredients
• 8 eggs separated into whites and yolks
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup cognac
• 1 whole nutmeg, grated
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks on high until creamy. Add sugar and continue beating for about 4 minutes, then add salt and combine.

2. In another large bowl, beat egg whites until peaks are stiff and firm.

3. Heat milk, cream, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat, until small bubbles appear.

4. Whisk the cream mixture into the yolk bowl, then add egg whites and cognac, stirring to combine.

5. Serve and sprinkle with grated nutmeg to top!

With simple ingredients and easy prep, each of these four hot drinks will quickly warm you up on a chilly day or night. Best of all, they are all bursting with unique flavours for you to enjoy.