Many of us have taken to enjoying the outdoors, whether it’s short walks from the home or longer rambles in the countryside, getting some fresh air has been worthwhile. As the colder weather sets in, there’s no reason to discontinue stretching your legs and headspace, just fill a flask with something warm and head on out! But if you’re weary of tea or coffee, and now that the festive season is upon us, why not try something a little different or a touch more decadent!



Mulled Apple Drink

We’re sure many of you have tried this as an alternative to mulled wine but try this recipe that uses apple juice instead of cider so that it’s suitable for children and designated drivers. You can always make the ‘adult version’ by adding a splash of brandy or rum!



Ingredients (serves 4-5)
:
2 cinammon sticks

4 allspice berries (or pinch of ground allspice)

4 whole cloves (or pinch of ground cloves)

Peel from 1 orange

Peel from 1 lemon

2 tbsp maple syrup

1 litre of apple juice



Method: Put the cinammon sticks, cloves, allspice, orange peel and lemon peel into a large sauce pan. Add the maple syrup and apple juice then heat until almost at boiling. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes. Serve in a mug and add a splash or rum for the grown-ups!



Peppermint 
Mocha Chocolate

Try this very decadent hot chocolate recipe. The coffee and the mint schnapps will certainly put a spring in your step! This could be adpated for children by leaving out the schnapps and substituting the milk chocolate for mint chocoloate to keep the minty flavour.



Ingredients (serves 1-2):

1 cup of milk

1 tsp of coffee

50g dark chocolate

25g milk chocolate

A splash of mint schnapps

Whipped cream

Crushed candy canes



Method: Heat the milk in a sacuepan over a low heat. Add the coffee and both types of chocolate. Whisk until everything is melted and combined. Remove from heat and stir in the schnapps. Serve in mugs topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Absolutely delicious!


Modern Hot Toddy

According to legend, the Hot Toddy originated on the damp streets of Edinburgh, mixing whiskey with hot water and spices, with the water said to come from Tod’s Well, hence the name. It’s origin is also said to be traced back to British-occupied India and the Hindi word “taddy”, referring to a fermented drink made from palm sap, originating from the 1600s!

Whatever the true history there is no doubting that when the cold weather demands a stiff drink, this one is hard to beat. Try this very modern twist on a classic drink!



Ingredients (serves 1)
:
2-3 cardamon pods

1 tsp butter

2-3 slices of fresh ginger

1 tsp brown sugar

Pinch of orange zest

Pinch of nutmeg

Vanilla essence

1 measure of whiskey

Hot water



Method: Add the dry ingredients (including the butter) to a mug. Mix the whiskey and hot water then pour over the spices etc. Mix well and serve with a cinnamon stick and a drop of vanilla essence.



Whether you’re out walking or snuggled up at home in front of the tree, we’re sure you’ll enjoy!