Halloween is over and we’re gearing up for the cozy, holiday season. Milk and dairy foods are a fabulous foundation for all kinds of coziness: from decadent lattes to savory milk-based soups. We’ve complied several recipes to help get you through the next few months with all the cozy vibes.
Creamy Latte
The latte is a classic, comforting pick-me-up. Using real milk means you get that velvety texture and natural sweetness that the best lattes have. In fact, baristas consistently say that whole dairy milk provides the best froth and texture for latte-style drinks.
Technically speaking, a latte is an espresso and milk drink that has a 1:3 ratio. One part espresso to three parts steamed milk, and it’s topped with a thin layer of milk foam. Emily at My Everyday Table offers a step-by-step instruction for making the perfect coffee house style latte at home.
Keep it cozy by sprinkling cinnamon or cocoa powder on the finished latte or using peppermint or gingerbread syrups.
Cozy Holiday Milkshake (Hot Chocolate Twist!)
This cozy, winter-ready hot-chocolate milkshake brings together everything we love about the holidays — creamy cocoa, a touch of spice and a generous swirl of whipped cream. It’s the perfect treat to sip fireside, whether you’re decorating the tree, watching your favorite holiday movie, or just looking for a dessert that feels like a hug in a glass.
Make this milkshake all yours with these cozy variation ideas: Add a drop of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes on top, stir in 1 tbsp of molasses and a pinch of ground ginger or add a shot of cooled espresso for an adult coffee-house vibe.
Get the recipe here from Marisa Bakes.
Classic Eggnog
Eggnog is the original classic of cozy drinks. Made with a combination of cream, milk, sugar, eggs, and spices, it’s a comforting and festive drink that’s thick, smooth and can have added alcohol if desired.
While many companies offer a pre-made version, making yours homemade kicks up the cozy vibes. Sip on eggnog while making holiday treats, a weekend-long movie marathon or after enjoying a crisp winter afternoon outside.
Southern Living offers an easy and detailed recipe to make your own!
Savory, Creamy Soups
A creamy milk-based soup can be comforting and wholesome, a perfect dinner for cooler weather or anytime you want something cozy but not sweet.
Creating a creamy soup with milk is a simple yet effective technique that can elevate the texture and flavor of your dish. By gently heating milk and incorporating it into your soup base, you can achieve a rich, velvety consistency without the need for heavy cream. AnSoup offers a detailed instruction post on how to create the perfect roux.
Need inspiration for the perfect creamy soup? Check out these three soups from The Pioneer Woman: Sausage, White Bean and Kale Soup, Carrot Soup with Carrot Top Pesto and Cheeseburger Soup.
Final Sip
Embrace all the cozy vibes this season. From lattes to soup, we’ve got you covered with the perfect accompaniments to your holiday activities and lounging.