In the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, the Evil Queen offers a hot drink to Edmond, which he exclaims warms him “down to my toes!”

Now, spoiler alert, she was bad news for Narnia, but even she must have known that there’s nothing like the feeling of being cold beyond reason and having a sip of something warm and delicious that seems to warm you up from the inside out – as long as it’s not so warm that you burn your tongue, because that’s not a good feeling.

So, here are 5 deliciously decadent hot beverages that are sure to warm you down to your toes, no magic required!

**Note** Unlike most of my other recipes, the following don’t have nutritional values listed. That’s because it’s the holidays and calories don’t count. Just enjoy!**

1. Classic Hot Chocolate

I feel like hot chocolate is synonymous with cold weather. And although those instant packets of hot chocolate mix can be convenient, sometimes you just need to indulge with something a little bit more fancy!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk (half and half is a great substitute as well)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
2. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Keep heating, stirring occasionally, until it’s ready to sip.
4. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

2. Spiced Apple Cider

Enjoy the essence of fall with this spiced apple cider. It’s a cup of warmth and tangy goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 orange, sliced (with peel)
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole allspice
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

Preparation Steps:

1. Combine apple cider, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, allspice, and cloves in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
4. Strain spices and oranges, serve hot, and garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired.

3. Hot Buttered Rum

A more recent hot beverage obsession of mine, this recipe is for the 21 and up crowd to be enjoyed responsibly.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups hot water
• 3/4 cup dark rum
• Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Mix butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
2. For each serving, place 2 tablespoons of the mixture into a mug.
3. Add 1 1/2 oz of rum and top with hot water.
4. Stir, then garnish with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

4. Luscious Eggnog Latte

A classic with a twist, this recipe allows you to savor the creamy richness of eggnog combined with the robust flavor of coffee in this holiday latte.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
• Optional: Whipped cream and ground nutmeg for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Brew espresso or strong coffee.
2. Heat milk, eggnog, cream, sugar, vanilla, and nutmeg over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Froth until creamy using a frother or hand mixer.
4. Divide the coffee or espresso between mugs.
5. Pour the frothy milk and eggnog mixture over the coffee, topping with whipped cream and nutmeg if desired.

5. Festive Peppermint Mocha

Enjoy the refreshing and rich taste of a peppermint mocha, a holiday favorite with chocolate and mint.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Brew coffee.
2. Heat milk until warm, then whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract.
4. Divide coffee between mugs and pour the milk mixture on top.
5. Finish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.

Conclusion

These recipes bring warmth and joy with every sip. Gather your ingredients, invite friends and family, and enjoy the holidays with a heart full of cheer and a mug full of deliciousness.

Did I miss any hot holiday favorites? Let me know in the comments below!