The holidays are special because of the traditions we have. The tree, the cookies, Elf on the Shelf, and wrapping are things we do once a year {thank goodness!}. Once we taste or smell something that is unique to this time of year it can bring back the memories of Christmas’ past, am I right? For me these two drinks bring back all the Christmas feels.
Cranberry Tea
There is nothing tea about this except the fact it is served warm. My mom made this every year. As a child, I loved being able to partake in a hot drink as the adults did, and the tart, spicy flavor isn’t so bad either! The smell that will encompass your home is simply delightful and very Christmas as this simmers on the stove! Serving a warm, beautiful, red drink will certainly add a special touch to any gathering.
Recipe
1 bag Fresh Cranberries
1/3 cup Orange Juice
2 1/2 TBSP. Fresh Lemon Juice
2 cinnamon Sticks
5 whole Cloves
8 cups Water
3/4 cup of Sugar *{I added less, add to your liking}
Directions:
1. Combine everything EXCEPT sugar in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil.
3. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
4. Strain in mesh strainer
5. Add sugar and mix well
6. Serve warm with a cinnamon stick.
Hot Buttered Rum
Dare I even say this DRINK is rich? See the ingredients? Yup! They’re amazing! I mean who doesn’t love butter, sugar, ice cream and a little shot? Welp, this drink has it! This is an oldie but a goodie. My grandma used to keep an ice cream pail (yes, pail!) of this frozen mix ready in the freezer for any visitors. This Hot Totty {that’s what we call it because it’s fun to say} is sure to get any party started!
Recipe
1 stick of butter, softened
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
For assembling individual drinks:
Spiced Rum (such as Captain Morgan) or Brandy
Boiling water
Directions
In a large mixing bowl whip softened butter, add softened ice cream then powdered sugar and spices. Mix thoroughly. Freeze in container.
When ready to serve, take 3 tablespoons of batter in an 8 oz. coffee mug, 1 jigger of spiced rum {or brandy, yes, I’m a Wisconsin girl now!} and boiling water to fill the mug. Stir well, top with a dash of nutmeg and cinnamon.
**Add more batter if needed. The drink should be flavorful, not watered down. Most of our coffee mugs are much larger than 8oz.
Enjoy these beverages at any of your holiday gatherings. The Hot Buttered Rum is also a hit for football watching parties that are soon to be upon us. Really, these drinks are perfect to simply warm up as we try to survive winter.
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As always, thank you for following and make it a great day!
