Cheers to the Holidays: Festive Vegan Drinks to Keep You Cozy This Winter!
December 10, 2023
The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a warm and cozy drink in hand. Whether you’re looking for a festive drink to serve at your holiday party or just want to enjoy a delicious beverage while curled up by the fire, these vegan drinks are sure to hit the spot. From classic hot cocoa with a twist to spiced apple cider and creamy eggnog, we’ve got you covered with a variety of vegan options that are easy to make and taste amazing. So, grab your favorite mug, cozy up with a blanket, and let’s get into the holiday spirit with these festive vegan drinks!
1. Introduction to festive vegan drinks
The holiday season is a time for celebration, relaxation, and indulgence. As the weather turns colder and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and cozy drink. But for those following a vegan lifestyle, finding festive drinks that fit your dietary restrictions can be a challenge. Fear not, because we’ve got you covered with a list of delicious and festive vegan drinks that are perfect for sipping by the fire or enjoying with friends and family. From hot cocoa to spiced cider to boozy cocktails, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your mugs and let’s get ready to cheers to the holidays with these delicious and cruelty-free drinks.
2. The importance of choosing vegan beverages
Choosing vegan beverages during the holiday season is not only important for those who follow a vegan lifestyle, but also for the environment and the animals. The use of animal products in the production of drinks can lead to deforestation, water pollution, and the mistreatment of animals. By choosing vegan beverages, you are making a conscious effort to reduce your carbon footprint and support ethical and sustainable practices.
Additionally, vegan drinks can be just as delicious and festive as their non-vegan counterparts. Many ingredients used in traditional holiday drinks such as eggnog, hot chocolate, and mulled wine can easily be substituted with plant-based alternatives such as soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and vegan chocolate. These substitutions not only make the drinks vegan-friendly but also add unique flavors and textures to the drinks.
There are also many vegan-friendly alcoholic beverages available such as beer, wine, and liquor made without animal products or byproducts. It’s important to read the labels and do your research to ensure that the alcohol you are consuming is vegan-friendly.
In conclusion, choosing vegan beverages during the holiday season can make a positive impact on the environment, animals, and your taste buds. Experiment with different plant-based ingredients to create festive and delicious drinks that everyone can enjoy.
3. Spiced apple cider recipe
Spiced apple cider is a classic winter drink that is loved by all. It is a perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors with a warm spicy aroma that reminds us of the holiday season. The best part is that it can be made vegan without sacrificing any of its deliciousness.
To make spiced apple cider, start by heating up some apple cider in a pot. While the cider is heating, add in some cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. You can also add in some fresh ginger and nutmeg for an extra kick of flavor. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the cider.
Once the cider is infused with the spices, strain it through a sieve to remove any solid pieces. Serve the cider warm in mugs with a cinnamon stick for a garnish.
To make this recipe even more festive, you can add a splash of rum or bourbon to the warm cider for an indulgent treat. Spiced apple cider is a perfect drink for cozy nights in by the fire or for a holiday party with friends and family.
4. Peppermint hot chocolate recipe
Peppermint hot chocolate is a classic winter drink that is loved by many. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to cozy up with a warm and delicious drink. And the best part is, you don’t have to miss out on this festive drink just because you’re vegan!
To make a delicious vegan peppermint hot chocolate at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup of non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk)
– 1/4 cup of vegan chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup (optional)
– Vegan whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the non-dairy milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the vegan chocolate chips and peppermint extract to the saucepan and stir until the chocolate chips have melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Taste the mixture and add maple syrup if desired, to sweeten.
4. Pour the hot chocolate into a mug.
5. Top with vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
Enjoy your delicious vegan peppermint hot chocolate and savor the taste of the holidays in every sip!
5. Eggnog recipe
Eggnog is a classic holiday drink, but it’s typically made with eggs and dairy. Fear not, vegans! There are plenty of delicious plant-based variations of this holiday favorite.
To make a vegan eggnog, you can use a non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or coconut milk as the base. Blend the milk with some cashews, dates, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg for a creamy and flavorful drink. You can also add some vegan whiskey or bourbon for an extra kick!
Another great option is to use a vegan eggnog mix, which can be found at many health food stores and online retailers. Just mix the powder with your favorite non-dairy milk and enjoy.
For an added festive touch, garnish your vegan eggnog with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a cinnamon stick or candy cane. It’s the perfect cozy drink to enjoy by the fireplace during the holidays.
6. Cranberry orange punch recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make festive drink this holiday season, try making a cranberry orange punch! This vegan recipe is perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in by the fire.
To make this punch, you’ll need cranberry juice, orange juice, ginger ale, and fresh cranberries for garnish. Simply mix the cranberry juice and orange juice in a large punch bowl, then slowly pour in the ginger ale. Stir gently to combine and add ice if desired.
For an extra festive touch, you can add fresh cranberries to the punch bowl as a garnish. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also add a pop of tart flavor to the drink.
This punch is perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike, and it’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. So why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with this delicious and festive drink? Cheers to the holidays!
7. Gingerbread latte recipe
There’s something magical about a warm and cozy drink during the winter holidays, and a gingerbread latte is the perfect treat to get you in the festive spirit. This recipe is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly, so anyone can enjoy it!
To make this gingerbread latte, start by brewing a strong espresso or a cup of strong coffee. Then, heat up some non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk) in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Add 1-2 tablespoons of molasses, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg to the milk and stir until everything is well combined.
Next, pour the coffee or espresso into a large mug and add the spiced milk on top. If you have a milk frother, you can use it to create a frothy layer on top of the latte. Finally, sprinkle some cinnamon or gingerbread crumbs on top for an extra festive touch.
This gingerbread latte is the perfect drink to cozy up with on a cold winter day, and it’s a great way to impress your guests during a holiday gathering. So, grab your favorite mug and enjoy this delicious vegan treat!
8. Tips for making perfect vegan drinks
Making perfect vegan drinks is all about choosing the right ingredients and techniques. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect holiday drinks:
1. Choose plant-based milks: There are a variety of plant-based milks available such as almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk. Choose the one that suits your recipe the best.
2. Use natural sweeteners: Instead of using refined sugar, opt for natural sweeteners like maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar.
3. Experiment with spices: Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can add a warm and cozy flavor to your drinks.
4. Blend well: When making blended drinks like smoothies or milkshakes, make sure to blend them well to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and flavor to your drinks by garnishing them with fresh herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary.
6. Use quality ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients to make your vegan drinks taste amazing. Fresh fruits, high-quality cocoa powder, and premium coffee are all great choices.
By following these tips, you can create delicious and festive vegan drinks that are sure to impress your guests and keep you cozy all winter long.
9. Non-alcoholic options for all ages
It’s always important to have options for everyone, especially when it comes to holiday drinks. Non-alcoholic options are a great way to make sure that everyone can enjoy a festive beverage, regardless of their age or lifestyle choices.
One great non-alcoholic option is hot cocoa. You can make it even more special by adding a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, marshmallows, or even candy canes. You can also switch things up by adding flavors like peppermint or cinnamon.
Another great option is a fruit punch. You can use fresh fruits and juices to create a colorful and flavorful drink that everyone will love. You can even add in some sparkling water or soda to make it a little more festive.
For those who prefer a little bit of a kick, you can always create a mocktail version of your favorite cocktail. For example, a virgin mojito can be made by muddling fresh mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup, then adding soda water.
No matter what you choose, having non-alcoholic options available is a great way to make sure that everyone feels included and can enjoy the festivities.