Holiday drinks to try from local tastemakers

Screen Shot 2018-12-17 at 10.53.38 AM

Photo by Revival Lakeland

Skip the Swiss Miss hot cocoa packets this year and try a festive holiday beverage recommended from local tastemakers. From eggnog to sangrias, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Cheers to new discoveries! 🥂

A suggestion from Swan Brewing

🍷 “I’m a big fan of Glühwein (hot sangrias, basically) - it pairs perfectly with chilly nights and good company.”

A protip from Born and Bread

☕ White Chocolate Mocha Cold Brew from Black & Brew

🥛 A guilty pleasure is mixing two parts Publix Eggnog with one part Bourbon, garnished with an orange peel + ground nutmeg

A recommendation from Honeycomb Bread

☕ Hot chocolate. “I make mine with dark dutched cocoa, brown sugar, a pinch of salt, a drop of vanilla, and the best-quality organic milk you can find. (Our dairy-free friends should try this using oat milk.) Obviously it needs a giant marshmallow on top, and then holiday merriment may commence!”

🍸 If you’re feeling sassy, mix ½ oz Grand Marnier and ½ oz Brandy into 5 oz hot chocolate.

A tradition from Nook Bakery

☕ A Russian Tea recipe from my grandma. Mix 4 c. orange juice, 4 c. strong brewed tea, 1 ¼ c. sugar, juice of 2 lemons + 9 cloves. Heat to desired amount. “We always have it Christmas night after we open our gifts and watch a classic Christmas movie as a family.”

An idea from Krazy Kombucha

🍸 Krazy Kombucha Cocktails anyone? Mix Ginger, Mango + Berry Kombucha with Malibu Rum.

🍺 Mix half Ginger + Berry Kombucha with half Stella Artois.

A recipe from Revival

☕ Hot Buttered Rum. Combine ½ c. butter, ¾ c. brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ⅓ tsp nutmeg, ⅛ tsp allspice, ⅛ tsp salt + a pinch of cayenne pepper. Refrigerate until use. Add 2 tbsp of batter into mug, and mix with 2 oz hot water, 2 oz rum + top with additional 2 oz hot water. Garnish with cloves + cinnamon sticks.

A favorite from A Cow Named Moo

☕ Peppermint Mocha or White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha from Black & Brew

As for my recommendation, I believe you’re now prepared to throw a Kate Spade-inspired party, spiced up with any one of these holiday beverages. And if you have a dying-to-share recipe, send it our way.

- Jessica

More from LALtoday
Are you taking a vacation this spring break or planning to make the most of the week at home? Whatever you’re up to, we have you covered with spring break ideas in and around Lakeland.
Check out this list of local spots to host your next party, reunion, or reception.
Prepare for spring weather in Lakeland, FL with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
The new restaurant at LAL is nearly ready to open its doors, and we got a sneak peek of what Lakelanders (and visitors) can expect.
Did your neighborhood make the list?
It’s the sweetest time of year — the Florida Strawberry Festival is back. Save our guide so you don’t get in a (strawberry) jam.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Be a tourist in your own hometown with three passes that give you prizes in return for check-ins.
Burgers, beignets, and beverages — find out what’s on the menu at this new restaurant from the owners of LoveBird.
The library will fully close for the construction of new bathrooms, an updated layout, and new fixtures.