It’s raining outside. You’ve just got home after a long day, and all you want to do is finish the book/series you’re currently obsessed with. Curled up under the blanket, you might wonder what’s the best, heart-warming drink to end your night on a high note.
No worries, we got you! Delicious and easy to make, here are some autumn classics and twists to warm you up in the colder months.
Flavoured coffee
You can’t go wrong with a steaming cup of coffee, but have you ever tried adding some unique flavours to it? Some spices pair well with the coffee’s natural bitterness, bringing your drink to a whole new level. Try mixing your fresh brew with cinnamon, vanilla or lavender for the perfect after-dinner treat. Just keep in mind that everyone’s tolerance to caffeine is different; if coffee keeps you awake at night, switch to decaf closer to bedtime.
Matcha latte
Matcha powder, honey, and hot milk. Three ingredients, that’s all you need to make your own matcha latte at home. High in antioxidants and rich in vitamins and fibres, matcha has lots of health benefits, helping reduce the risk of heart and liver diseases. Matcha is a very versatile ingredient, easy to incorporate in your diet, starting with a hot drink of your choice.
Apple pie latte
A staple of autumnal recipes, apples are great allies in the kitchen – and not just for pies and tarts. Next time, instead of throwing away the peels and cores of your apples, use them to prepare a tasty syrup to enhance the flavour of your coffee. And for an extra level of sweetness, consider adding caramel sauce to your brew.
Peppermint hot chocolate
Everyone’s favourite hot drink, with a twist. Add peppermint to your hot chocolate to make this indulgent treat, perfect for the season. Mix in a little double cream – rather than just adding it on top – for an even richer result.
Warm vanilla cider
A mug of this cider will warm you from the inside out. Just combine apple cider, sugar, nutmeg, and vanilla beans in a saucepan and gently simmer over medium to low heat for 10-15 mins. Once ready, remove any solids and serve with whipped cream and cinnamon sticks. And if you have guests, you could use hollowed out apples as natural, heatproof glasses.
Hot Lemon Water
Simple but effective, this hot drink is packed with healthy goodness – lemon is great to detox your liver from toxins. You could also try adding a pinch of turmeric, known for its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Enjoy this soothing drink before bed to relax and easily drift off to dreamland.