Cozy Holiday Drinks That Nourish
One of my favorite winter rituals is coming home on a blustery evening and warming up a cozy drink. Whether it’s a cup of Earl Grey with soy milk, a decaf oat milk latte, or a pot of homemade hot cocoa on the stove, it feels grounding and comforting during the cold, dark months.
What I love even more? These cozy drinks can also support your nutrition in simple, meaningful ways.
Earl Grey Tea with Soy Milk
Earl Grey is naturally rich in antioxidants from black tea, which support heart health and overall wellness. Adding soy milk brings:
- Plant-based protein to help with fullness
- Calcium (often fortified) for bone support
- Healthy fats that make your tea more satisfying
It’s a gentle, balanced option when you want warmth without caffeine overload.
Decaf Oat Milk Latte
A decaf latte can be a great afternoon or evening treat. Oat milk provides:
- Carbohydrates for steady energy
- Fiber to support digestion
- Calcium and vitamin D when fortified
Paired with decaf coffee or espresso, it offers comfort without disrupting sleep.
Homemade Hot Cocoa: Comfort with Benefits
My absolute favorite winter drink is homemade hot cocoa. There’s something deeply cozy about heating milk on the stove and whisking in cocoa powder. And it turns out, this ritual comes with some surprising nutrition perks too.
Cocoa + milk is a powerful pairing:
✨ Cocoa brings antioxidants. It’s rich in flavonoids like epicatechin and procyanidins, which support heart health and help calm inflammation.
✨ Cocoa provides minerals. Magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium, and a bit of fiber all play a role in energy, immunity, and digestion.
🥛 Milk adds high-quality protein. Along with calcium, potassium, and B vitamins that support bones, muscles, and everyday energy.
❤️ Together, they work well. Research shows milk does not significantly block cocoa’s beneficial compounds and may even support healthy cholesterol and inflammation levels.
A Simple, Nourishing Cocoa Recipe
Warm your milk of choice, whisk in unsweetened cocoa powder, and lightly sweeten with maple syrup or sugar. Prefer a mix? Equal Exchange is a favorite for both flavor and quality.
Cozy winter drinks don’t have to be “just for fun.” They can absolutely be part of a nourishing, realistic routine—especially during the colder months.
