Monday, December 06, 2004
Warm up your holidays with festive beverages
Whether you are hosting a holiday party or relaxing at home, this time of year is perfect for hot beverages that feature the flavors of the seasons. When paired with homemade or purchased cookies, hot beverages can be the basis of a simple party. They also are perfect after an afternoon of playing in the snow or an evening of caroling.
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This recipe has the added bonus of making your house smell wonderful while you prepare it.
Hot Apple Cider
6 cups apple cider
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 cinnamon sticks
6 whole cloves
6 whole allspice berries
1 orange peel, cut into strips
1 lemon peel, cut into strips
Additional cinnamon sticks, optional
In a large saucepan, combine cider and maple syrup. Place the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange peel and lemon peel in cheesecloth or a coffee filter; fold up sides to make a bundle and tie with kitchen string. Place the spice bundle into the cider mixture. Heat the cider over medium heat until hot but not boiling, about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove cider from heat and discard spice bundle. Garnish with additional cinnamon sticks if desired. Makes 6 servings.
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Chocolate and peppermint go well together, and this recipe makes the combination festive. Crush the candy canes well so the cocoa doesn’t have chunks of peppermint in it.
Candy Cane Cocoa
4 cups milk
3 1-ounce squares semisweet chocolate, chopped
4 small peppermint candy canes, crushed
Whipped cream and additional candy canes, optional
In a saucepan over medium heat, heat milk until hot but not boiling. Whisk in the chocolate and crushed candy canes until melted and smooth. Garnish with whipped cream and candy canes if desired. Makes 4 servings.
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Keep this mix on hand and you’ll have a handy beverage for unexpected guests. It also makes a nice gift.
Cinnamon Coffee Mix
7 tablespoons instant coffee granules
1/4 cup powdered nondairy creamer
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons nonfat dry milk powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
In an airtight container, combine the coffee granules, creamer, sugar, milk powder and cinnamon. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. Makes about 5 servings.
To prepare 1 serving of coffee, combine 1 cup boiling water with 3 tablespoons coffee mix in a mug; stir well.
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Pantry Pointers
For easy entertaining, keep cocoa warm in a slow cooker and allow guests to serve themselves. Have candy canes, cinnamon sticks and marshmallows handy and guests can garnish their own drinks.
The Practical Pantry ©2004 Tammy P. Olson
http://www.practicalpantry.com