Welcome to February, the heart of winter. Thanks to 2024 being a leap year, we have 29 days of winter to enjoy!

February was named after the Latin word ‘februum’, meaning purification, as ancient Romans held purification rituals during the month so, what better time to try some warming and non-alcoholic beverages? Choosing alcohol-free drinks comes with a multitude of benefits, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.

Here are our top 5 fast winter recipes to keep you snug and cosy this February:

1. Eggnog Chai Latte from Hot Pan Kitchen

The perfect winter warmer! With just three ingredients, and taking under 10 minutes to prepare, this indulgent drink won’t break the bank and is incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients

• 1 chai tea bag
• 4 ounces water
• 4 ounces eggnog
• 4 ounces milk
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

Method

1. Steep the chai tea bag in nearly boiling water for 4 minutes.
2. Heat eggnog and milk in a microwave-safe cup until warm.
3. Remove tea bag, pour eggnog mixture into the tea, and froth for 15 seconds.
4. Sprinkle nutmeg and enjoy!

 

2. French Hot Chocolate from International Desserts Blog

Indulge your love of chocolate with this decadent, delicious drink. A quick and heavenly treat for all chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

• 113ml whole milk
• 28g chopped dark chocolate (at least 70%)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• whipped cream (optional)
• chocolate sprinkles or shavings (optional)

Method

1. Heat milk in a saucepan, add chocolate and sugar.
2. Stir until dissolved, simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
3. Pour into a cup, top with whipped cream, and chocolate sprinkles. Enjoy the decadence!

 

3. Spicy Ginger Beer mocktail from The Mindful Cocktail

This spicy, yet sweet mocktail is perfect if you’re looking to inject a ginger kick into the dullest of wintery days.

Ingredients

• 60 ml pineapple juice
• 6-8 mint leaves
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• ¾ cup ginger beer
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Method

1. Muddle mint, salt, and lime juice in a glass.
2. Add ice, pour pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, and stir gently.
3. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with pineapple and/or mint.

 

4. Spicy Mulled Cider from the Mindful Mocktail

This sweet winter drink is perfect for the whole family, whether you’re getting cosy by the fire or warming up after a cold, winter walk – get out your slow cooker for this recipe that will be a hit with your whole family!

Ingredients

25 oz Granny smith apples, cored and cut into wedges (weight after chopping)

6 cinnamon sticks

2 teaspoons whole cloves

¾ teaspoon allspice

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

1000ml water

1200ml cloudy apple juice, unsweetened

1 orange, thickly sliced

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
2. Mash apples and orange slices, then strain the cider.
3. Serve warm with a cinnamon stick and apple slice garnish.

 

5. Alcohol-Free Irish Cream from BBC good food

Enjoy the creamy flavours and spices and of this classic winter cocktail with a non-alcoholic twist.

Ingredients

• 150ml double cream
• 50ml evaporated milk
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 25ml freshly brewed espresso
• pinch of ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of finely grated orange zest
• ice

Method

1. Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker or jug.
2. Shake well or stir until combined.
3. Serve over ice and savour the indulgence.