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Lifestyle

8 of the Absolute Best Winter Drinks

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Syracuse chapter.

When the snow is so unbearable and there’s no warm fireplace in sight, we all need something to keep us warm. Here’s where the drinks come in. In no particular order, I have decided to list what I feel are the best winter drinks to have by your side on even the coldest and snowiest of days. 

Calming Chai Tea Latte

chai latte chai tea
Rebecca Buechler

Not only does Chai tea have calming effects, but it also tastes great too. With just the right touch of cinnamon and a perfect frothy layer of steamed milk on the top, you will be ready to take on the cold day ahead of you. Also available in an iced version.

Smooth, Hot Caramel Macchiato

Coffee Shops for Studying coffee espresso
Kelsey Emery

Brewed with espresso, steamed milk, and caramel flavors, the caramel macchiato is smooth enough to warm up any chilly day. The espresso has enough caffeine to give you enough energy to power through the snow and anything else winter throws your way. Also available in an iced version.

Freshly Brewed Iced Coffee

coffee Iced coffee coffee
Beatriz Gras

While this may not be the first drink you think of when it’s snowing, it’s still a top contender for one of the best winter drinks. Iced coffee not only gives you a ton of energy but, on the days that you can barely open your eyes and snow is blowing into your face, it’ll wake you right up.

Warm Mulled Cider

apple recipes tea apple
Spoon University

This isn’t just your ordinary apple cider. Mulled cider is brewed with cinnamon, allspice, cloves, orange slices, and lemons to give you a drink that smells and tastes as good as it looks.

Mexican Hot Chocolate

winter Cuban coffee
MyLinh Truong

To amp up your regular hot chocolate game, add in about a teaspoon of ground chile and cinnamon. It’ll give a basic hot chocolate a spicy kick that not only wakes you up but keeps you warm on the coldest of winter days.

Hot Chocolate With Marshmallows

Best Winter Drinks milk coffee
Alyssa Maccarrone

One of my absolute winter faves is hot chocolate. If you don’t add at least two handfuls of mini marshmallows to your cup you’re doing it wrong. Hot chocolate takes around 3 minutes to make and within 1 minute of drinking it, you’ll begin to appreciate the snow for allowing you to enjoy such a delectable drink.

Tangy Peppermint Mocha

Best Winter Drinks chocolate cream
Madison Newman

This minty, rich drink is made with espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce, and peppermint flavoring. For extra sweetness, add a dollop of whipped cream and mini chocolate chips on top and you’ll no doubt have the perfect pick-me-up for the brisk day that lies ahead. 

Chestnut Praline Latte

starbucks coffee cappuccino
Becky Hughes

You can be extra festive and warm this holiday season with this toasty latte. Made with warm milk, chestnuts, caramel, and spices, the drink will never fail to put a smile on your face and warm your heart.

Julia Aronson

Syracuse '21

I am currently a senior at Syracuse University majoring in public relations in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and minoring in business in the Whitman School of Management. I have a passion for photography, writing, and most importantly, food!