It’s that time of the year when the weather has finally cooled off; at least, that’s what I’m telling myself even though the South can never make up its mind. This means it is officially time for hot drink season where you can have a steaming cup of something and not be sweating. Not to mention just how much a hot drink can make it feel like the holiday season. So let’s jump on in!

A Classic Hot Chocolate

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This is my cold season and holiday staple. There’s nothing better than hot with marshmallows floating (and melting) on the top. The variety you can have with this drink… insane. First, you can make it with boiled water or hot milk. Growing up, I was a boiling water type of kid, but once I came to college I learned hot milk is the way to go for me.

Then, there is the flavors. Oh all the flavors!! I love dark chocolate mix in mine, but that isn’t my favorite. Peppermint hot chocolate is the best thing to exist during the holiday season. It’s like drinking Christmas. And we can’t forget about the toppings. Marshmallows are my personal go to, especially the mini ones. There’s also whipped cream, chocolate syrup, cinnamon, and sprinkles. The list could go on.

Hot chocolate makes winter feel like winter. It’s the drink you look forward to after a cold day outside or a day filled with decorating.

Hot coffee anyone?

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The beauty of a hot coffee is you can have pretty much any flavor you want! Peppermint? Sure, it’s seasonal. Caramel? All year round my friend. Just little sugar and creamer? If that floats your boat! And for my brave friends out there… straight black coffee. It’s the perfect pick me up or hand warmer for your morning walks to class or work.

The other joy of coffee comes when you stop in your favorite cafe for one. There’s no feeling quite like it when you’re cold, tired, and need a refresher for the day. Arguable, it might just be the best hot drink of the season.

Let’s Not Forget the Tea

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I will be the first to say I’m not much of a tea drinker. Hot or iced, I haven’t found one I like (suggestions welcome), yet it definitely makes a case to be apart of this debate. Hot tea comes in so many different flavors that I didn’t know were possible. Besides the classic green tea everyone knows, chai tea is another popular flavor.

There’s teas to give you energy, relax you, or put you to sleep. Some smell great and others taste great! While I can’t say it will win my heart over, hot peppermint tea sounds like it might have a fighting chance this season. Besides, growing up in the South means sweet tea is the tea.

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Alright, now that you’ve got your choices it’s time to decide. What is the best hot drink of the season?