When I lived in San Diego my group of friends LOVED to
drink. Myself, I am more of a glass of wine…maybe one Gin & Tonic kind of
girl. I’ve never had so much to drink that I am hung over the next day and
honestly the first time I had a whole alcoholic beverage (or two) to myself was
at my little sister’s 21st birthday in Las Vegas.

So whenever this group of friends would have me meet them at
whatever dive bar or craft cocktail counter was “in-the-now” I would go and
demurely order a hot chocolate. Naughty in a different way, the
a-little-extra-junk-in-the-trunk-but-still-keeping-your-reputation way. Let’s just say that I learned that bartenders do not like to
be confused with baristas, and they are LESS than accommodating when the drink
comes with whipped cream. In the three years that I lived in San Diego, I got lucky
once. A sweet beachside bartender gave me a cup of Swiss-Miss from his own
private reserve. You have a friend for life dear man, for life.

One of winter’s most redeeming qualities is Hot Chocolate
(besides Christmas, of course)! Well any warm drinks really, I mean this all
just MY opinion… but I am always right.

Here are a few warming winter drinks that are in such heavy
rotation in my kitchen they have come to replace meals.

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Hot Buttered Rum

Mulled Wine
Bourbon Hazelnut Steamers

Orange & Ginger Hot Toddies

Peppermint Schnapps Hot Chocolate

To make my super fancy spiced chai simmer the following spices in about 3 cups of milk (almond is my favorite and soy would be good too.) After about twenty minutes, and once the flavors have incorporated, pour through a strainer and stir in 2 tablespoons or so of honey or more until you reach your desired sweetness. A spoon or two of coconut milk would also be a welcome addition if you happen to be feeling for something a little more exotic.

1 Tablespoon Each:
Cinnamon Bark
Black Tea Leaves
Allspice
Lavender
Fennel Seeds
Candied Ginger
Peppercorns
Green Cardamom
Cloves
Star Anise
and
1 Vanilla Pod