Healthy Hot Beverages to Keep You Warm
Spiced Hot Cider
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the applejack and schnapps and add 2 tablespoons cinnamon-flavored syrup, such as Torani brand.
Makes 6 Servings | 143 calories
+ 4 C apple cider
+ 1 cinnamon stick
+ 5 whole cloves
+ ½ C applejack (apple brandy)
+ 2 Tbs cinnamon schnapps cinnamon sticks, for garnish
Bring apple cider, cinnamon stick and cloves to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Add applejack and schnapps. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve hot.
Mocha Chocolate à la Paris
A grande Caffè Mocha at Starbucks will set you back 330 calories, but this lightened version can be sipped guilt-free. Using low-fat milk keeps the calorie content in check while giving you a boost of bone-strengthening calcium. Plus, the creamy cocoa has just enough coffee to start your morning off right, while satisfying your chocolate craving.
Makes 8 Servings | 200 Calories
+ 1 quart 1% low-fat milk
+ 6 ounces high-quality bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
+ ½ C Dutch process cocoa
+ ½ C sugar
+ ¼ C hot, strong-brewed coffee
+ Whipped cream, for serving, optional
+ Grated bittersweet chocolate, for serving, optional
- In top part of a double boiler, mix milk, chocolate, cocoa, and sugar. Place over simmering water and cook, stirring occasionally with a whisk, until chocolate has melted and mixture is smooth and hot, about 20 minutes. (Don’t have a double boiler? Heat chocolate mixture in a small saucepan over a larger pan of boiling water.) Stir in coffee and heat through.
- Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream and the chocolate shavings, if desired, and serve while warm.
