Sip into Texan Winter Bliss with Spiced Ciders, Hot Chocolates, and More

Written By Nadine Madrigal

Discover > Texas Recipes > Sip into Texan Winter Bliss with Spiced Ciders, Hot Chocolates, and More

Winter in Texas is a unique experience, marked by cool temperatures and occasional chilly winds. As the Lone Star State prepares for the holiday season, there's nothing quite like the comfort and warmth of a steaming cup of hot drink in hand. In this article, we'll explore the rich tapestry of Texan hot drinks, ranging from traditional favorites to creative concoctions that embody the spirit of the season.

Traditional Texan Hot Drinks

Spiced Apple Cider

Spiced apple cider is a comforting and aromatic drink that is perfect for chilly winter days. 

Picture yourself wrapped in a cozy blanket as the aroma of spiced apple cider fills the air. You can easily make it by heating fresh apple cider on the stovetop. As the cider warms, you can add spices like cinnamon sticks, (how long do cinnamon sticks last?) whole cloves (how long do cloves last?), and freshly grated nutmeg (how long does nutmeg last?). Allow the flavors to meld together by simmering the cider for about 15-20 minutes. You can also add a touch of sweetness with brown sugar (how long does sugar last?) or honey (how long does honey last?). 

Serve the spiced apple cider hot and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.

I highly recommend purchasing cinnamon sticks, and brown sugar or honey online for a convenient shopping experience!

In the mood for cider? Check out these Texas cideries.

Yield: 4
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Spiced Apple Cider

Spiced Apple Cider

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 30 Min
Spiced apple cider is a comforting and aromatic drink that is perfect for chilly winter days.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh apple cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
  • Cinnamon sticks or orange slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the fresh apple cider.
  2. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and grated nutmeg to the saucepan.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the cider to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the cider simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors of the spices to infuse into the cider.
  5. Taste the cider and add brown sugar or honey to sweeten, adjusting the amount to your preference. Stir well to dissolve the sweetener.
  6. Once the cider has simmered and the flavors have melded together, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  7. Using a fine-mesh strainer or a slotted spoon, remove the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and any other solids from the cider.
  8. Pour the spiced apple cider into mugs or heatproof glasses.
  9. Optional: Garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
  10. Serve the spiced apple cider hot and enjoy its comforting and aromatic flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

137.93

Fat

0.46 g

Sat. Fat

0.14 g

Carbs

34.31 g

Fiber

1.55 g

Net carbs

32.75 g

Sugar

28.66 g

Protein

0.35 g

Sodium

12.17 mg

Cholesterol

0 mg

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Texans have a sweet tooth, and what better way to satisfy it than with a cup of rich Mexican hot chocolate (What wine goes well with chocolate?)? 

Start by combining cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Add a dash of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of chili powder for a subtle kick. Gradually whisk in milk and heat the mixture over medium-low heat until the chocolate is melted and the drink is hot. You can adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking. Serve the Mexican hot chocolate in mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows (how long do marshmallows last?) if desired.

Elevate the experience by using chocolate from local Texan brands, infusing a touch of the state's essence into every sip.

If you're looking for cocoa powder, salt, saucepan, cinnamon, chili powder, and whisks, buying it online is your best bet!

Dripping Springs Chocolate Company is a family-owned business that produces small-batch bean-to-bar craft chocolates using ethically sourced raw cacao beans.

Yield: 2
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Mexican Hot Chocolate

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 15 MinTotal time: 25 Min
Texans have a sweet tooth, and what better way to satisfy it than with a cup of rich Mexican hot chocolate?

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Dash of ground cinnamon
  • Tiny pinch of chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
  • Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and chili powder.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk until the cocoa powder mixture is fully incorporated and no lumps remain.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and slowly heat the mixture, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
  4. Continue heating and stirring until the milk is hot and the chocolate is fully melted. Be careful not to let it boil.
  5. Taste the Mexican hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking. You can add more sugar for a sweeter taste or more chili powder for a spicier kick. Stir well to incorporate any additional ingredients.
  6. Once the hot chocolate is heated to your desired temperature and the flavors are well blended, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  7. Pour the Mexican hot chocolate into mugs.
  8. Optional: Top each serving with whipped cream or marshmallows for added indulgence.
  9. Serve the Mexican hot chocolate immediately and enjoy its rich, comforting flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

213.09

Fat

9.2 g

Sat. Fat

5.37 g

Carbs

27.05 g

Fiber

2.14 g

Net carbs

24.91 g

Sugar

24.05 g

Protein

9.11 g

Sodium

114.38 mg

Cholesterol

31.56 mg

Cowboy Coffee

For those who like it strong, cowboy coffee is a Texan staple. 

To make it, bring water to a boil in a pot or kettle. Remove the pot from heat and add coarsely ground coffee beans (how long do coffee beans last?). Allow the coffee to steep for a few minutes, typically around 4-5 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your coffee. To settle the grounds, you can add a small amount of cold water or gently tap the side of the pot. Pour the coffee into cups, and if desired, let it sit for a moment to allow any remaining grounds to settle before enjoying.

Explore the roots of Texan history with this traditional brew, and feel free to experiment with modern adaptations to suit your taste.

When it comes to getting the best deals, buying a kettle, online is the way to go!

House of Coffee Beans established itself as one of the first sources of whole bean gourmet coffee in Houston.

Yield: 1
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Cowboy Coffee

Cowboy Coffee

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 5 MinTotal time: 10 Min
For those who like it strong, cowboy coffee is a Texan staple.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp coarsely ground coffee beans
  • 8 oz water

Instructions

  1. Fill a pot or kettle with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Once the water has reached a boil, remove the pot from the heat source.
  3. Add coarsely ground coffee beans to the hot water. As a general guideline, use about 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds per 8 ounces (1 cup) of water. Adjust the amount based on your desired strength.
  4. Stir the coffee grounds into the water to ensure they are fully immersed.
  5. Allow the coffee to steep for a few minutes, typically around 4-5 minutes. You can adjust the steeping time based on your preference for a stronger or milder brew.
  6. To settle the coffee grounds, you have a couple of options. You can add a small amount of cold water to the pot, which helps the grounds sink to the bottom. Alternatively, you can gently tap the side of the pot to encourage the grounds to settle.
  7. Carefully pour the cowboy coffee into cups, leaving any settled grounds in the bottom of the pot.
  8. If desired, let the coffee sit for a moment to allow any remaining grounds to settle further before enjoying.
  9. Serve the cowboy coffee hot and savor its strong and robust flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

0

Fat

0 g

Sat. Fat

0 g

Carbs

0 g

Fiber

0 g

Net carbs

0 g

Sugar

0 g

Protein

0 g

Sodium

11.34 mg

Cholesterol

0 mg

Creative Variations

Pecan Pie Latte

Indulge in the comforting flavors of pecan pie with a Texan twist. 

Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. Add pecan-flavored syrup or pecan praline syrup to the coffee. In a separate saucepan, heat milk and add a touch of brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. Froth the milk until it's creamy and pour it over the coffee mixture. Top the latte with a generous serving of whipped cream and crushed pecans (how long do pecans last?) for an extra touch of decadence. It's like enjoying the flavors of a pecan pie in a warm and comforting drink.

No time to bake? Here are the best Texas pie makers across the Lone Star State.

Yield: 2
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Pecan Pie Latte

Pecan Pie Latte

Prep time: 55 MinCook time: 5 MinTotal time: 1 Hour
Indulge in the comforting flavors of pecan pie with a Texan twist.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee or 1 shot of espresso
  • 1-2 tablespoons pecan-flavored syrup or pecan praline syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Crushed pecans for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brew a strong cup of coffee or prepare a shot of espresso according to your preference.
  2. Pour the brewed coffee or espresso into a mug.
  3. Add 1-2 tablespoons of pecan-flavored syrup or pecan praline syrup to the coffee, adjusting the amount based on your desired level of pecan flavor. Stir well to incorporate the syrup into the coffee.
  4. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat.
  5. Add the brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon to the milk. Stir continuously until the sugar has dissolved and the milk is hot, but be careful not to let it boil.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk until it becomes creamy and frothy.
  7. Slowly pour the frothed milk over the coffee mixture in the mug, using a spoon to hold back the foam until the milk is poured.
  8. Spoon the remaining foam on top of the latte.
  9. Optional: Top the latte with a generous serving of whipped cream for added indulgence.
  10. Garnish the latte with crushed pecans for an extra touch of pecan pie flavor and presentation.
  11. Serve the Pecan Pie Latte hot and enjoy its comforting and decadent flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

160.17

Fat

6.94 g

Sat. Fat

2.93 g

Carbs

19.68 g

Fiber

0.39 g

Net carbs

19.29 g

Sugar

18.88 g

Protein

5.38 g

Sodium

52.1 mg

Cholesterol

16.92 mg

Texas Toddy

Warm up your spirits with a Texas Toddy, a whiskey-infused hot drink that brings together the bold flavors of Texan whiskey. 

Start by brewing a cup of strong black tea, such as Assam or Earl Grey. In a separate mug, add a shot of Texan whiskey, such as bourbon or rye whiskey. Sweeten the mixture with honey or brown sugar, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Pour the hot tea over the whiskey mixture and stir well. This cozy drink will bring together the bold flavors of Texan whiskey for a comforting and warming experience.

Discover the depth of local brands and savor the richness they add to this winter classic.

Ever find yourself wanting something more than store-shelf bought whiskey? Here are the 6 Texan whiskey distilleries you should check out.

Yield: 1
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Texas Toddy

Texas Toddy

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 5 MinTotal time: 10 Min
Warm up your spirits with a Texas Toddy, a whiskey-infused hot drink that brings together the bold flavors of Texan whiskey.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup strong black tea (Assam or Earl Grey)
  • 1 shot of Texan whiskey (bourbon or rye whiskey)
  • 1-2 teaspoons honey or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon slice for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brew a cup of strong black tea using your preferred method. Steep the tea for the recommended time to ensure a robust flavor.
  2. In a separate mug, add a shot of Texan whiskey.
  3. Sweeten the whiskey mixture with 1-2 teaspoons of honey or brown sugar, adjusting the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.
  4. Squeeze a fresh lemon juice into the mug, adding a bright and tangy element to the drink.
  5. Once the tea is ready, pour it over the whiskey mixture in the mug.
  6. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients and ensure the honey or brown sugar dissolves.
  7. Optional: Garnish the Texas Toddy with a slice of lemon for an extra touch of citrus aroma and presentation.
  8. Serve the Texas Toddy while it's still hot and savor the comforting and warming flavors of Texan whiskey infused with black tea, honey, and lemon.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

141.39

Fat

0.06 g

Sat. Fat

0.01 g

Carbs

8.32 g

Fiber

0.25 g

Net carbs

8.09 g

Sugar

6.41 g

Protein

0.14 g

Sodium

9.05 mg

Cholesterol

0 mg

Seasonal Twists

Pumpkin Spice Chai

Embrace the season with a Texan take on the pumpkin spice trend. 

Start by brewing a strong cup of black tea, such as Assam or Darjeeling. In a separate saucepan, heat milk and add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a touch of cloves. Simmer the mixture to infuse the flavors, and strain it into the brewed tea. Sweeten with sugar or honey to taste. This aromatic and flavorful chai will combine the best of fall and Texan warmth.

Create your own pumpkin spice blend and infuse it into a comforting chai, combining the best of fall and Texan warmth.

For the most extensive selection, I suggest buying pumpkin puree and strainer online!

Yield: 2
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Pumpkin Spice Chai

Pumpkin Spice Chai

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 5 MinTotal time: 10 Min
Embrace the season with a Texan take on the pumpkin spice trend.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup strong black tea (Assam or Darjeeling)
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves
  • Sugar or honey to taste

Instructions

  1. Brew a cup of strong black tea using your preferred method. Set it aside.
  2. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat.
  3. Add the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves to the saucepan.
  4. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients.
  5. Simmer the milk and spice mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the pumpkin puree to incorporate.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the milk mixture into the brewed tea, using a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pumpkin or spice particles.
  7. Stir well to combine the tea and spiced milk.
  8. Sweeten the Pumpkin Spice Chai with sugar or honey to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your desired level of sweetness.
  9. Pour the Pumpkin Spice Chai into mugs and serve it hot.
  10. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
  11. Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful combination of fall spices and Texan warmth in this Pumpkin Spice Chai.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

106.1

Fat

4.06 g

Sat. Fat

2.35 g

Carbs

13.97 g

Fiber

0.8 g

Net carbs

13.15 g

Sugar

12.45 g

Protein

4.22 g

Sodium

51.01 mg

Cholesterol

14.64 mg

Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine

For a festive touch, try a cranberry orange mulled wine. 

In a saucepan, combine red wine, cranberry juice, orange zest, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a touch of sugar. Heat the mixture gently, but avoid boiling it. Let the flavors meld together for about 20 minutes. Strain the mulled wine into mugs and serve it warm.

If available, use locally grown cranberries to add a hint of Texas to this seasonal delight.

Yield: 6
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine

Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 30 Min
For a festive touch, try a cranberry orange mulled wine.

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle of red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 2 cups cranberry juice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2-4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, cranberry juice, orange zest, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and sugar.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and gently warm the mixture. Be careful not to let it boil, as you want to preserve the flavors of the wine.
  3. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar and allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Let the mulled wine simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse and the flavors to develop.
  5. After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  6. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or a heatproof container to remove the spices and orange zest.
  7. Serve the Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine warm.
  8. Optional: Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

173.51

Fat

0.18 g

Sat. Fat

0.02 g

Carbs

21.1 g

Fiber

0.99 g

Net carbs

20.11 g

Sugar

17.01 g

Protein

0.51 g

Sodium

7.48 mg

Cholesterol

0 mg

Peppermint Mocha

Refresh your senses with a Peppermint Mocha, a delightful twist on classic hot chocolate. 

Start by making a rich hot chocolate using cocoa powder, milk, and sugar. Add a shot of espresso or a strong cup of coffee to the hot chocolate. Flavor the drink with peppermint syrup or crushed peppermint candies (how long do peppermint candies last?). Top it off with whipped cream and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a candy cane. 

Opt for locally sourced peppermint to add a touch of freshness to the rich, chocolaty goodness.

Yield: 2
Author: Nadine Madrigal
Peppermint Mocha

Peppermint Mocha

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 10 MinTotal time: 15 Min
Refresh your senses with a Peppermint Mocha, a delightful twist on classic hot chocolate.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 shot of espresso or 1 cup of strong brewed coffee
  • 1-2 tablespoons peppermint syrup or 2-3 crushed peppermint candies
  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Crushed peppermint candies or candy cane for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to steam. Do not let it boil.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
  3. Gradually whisk the cocoa powder mixture into the heated milk until fully incorporated and no lumps remain.
  4. Add a shot of espresso or a cup of strong brewed coffee to the hot chocolate mixture, stirring well.
  5. Stir in the peppermint syrup or crushed peppermint candies, adjusting the amount to your desired level of mintiness.
  6. Continue heating the Peppermint Mocha mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature.
  7. Once heated, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  8. Pour the Peppermint Mocha into mugs.
  9. Top each serving with whipped cream.
  10. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a candy cane for an extra festive touch.
  11. Serve the Peppermint Mocha immediately and enjoy the refreshing combination of rich chocolate and cool mint flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

201.66

Fat

9.31 g

Sat. Fat

6.53 g

Carbs

27.8 g

Fiber

1.85 g

Net carbs

25.94 g

Sugar

24.75 g

Protein

5.68 g

Sodium

55.4 mg

Cholesterol

16.92 mg

Serving and Presentation

To complete the experience, serve these Texan hot drinks in mugs adorned with local motifs. Consider garnishes like cinnamon sticks, orange twists, or whipped cream, and create a cozy ambiance with warm lighting and festive decorations.

Conclusion

As winter settles in, take a journey through the diverse and flavorful world of Texan hot drinks. Texan hot drinks for winter offer a delightful array of flavors that embody the warmth and comfort of the Lone Star State. From spiced ciders and hot chocolates with a Tex-Mex twist to cowboy coffee and pecan-infused lattes, there is a Texan-inspired hot drink for every taste preference. The incorporation of local ingredients like pecans, Texan whiskey, and cranberries adds a unique touch, while seasonal twists such as pumpkin spice chai and peppermint mocha bring a festive flair. These hot drinks not only provide a cozy respite from the winter chill but also showcase the diverse and vibrant flavors that make Texas a culinary treasure. So, whether you're sipping on a spiced apple cider or indulging in a Texas Toddy, these Texan hot drinks will warm your heart and bring a taste of Texas to your winter season.

Nadine Madrigal
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