There’s no time of year that we put as much thought into what we drink as around the holidays. From hot drinks to frosty cocktails, everything gets a festive touch. This year, since we are feeling especially indoorsy, we are looking to what we know best—furniture—for inspiration.
Keep reading for our favourite seasonal sips and a curated collection of stylish, versatile accent chairs that will elevate any space. If you are looking for a new signature holiday beverage or the perfect spot for curling up, kicking back, or watching the world go by, we got you.
Mull it Over Inspired by the rich red hue of the Tameka Chair, this spiced Cranberry Apple Cider can be mixed up in less than five minutes, then left to gently steep in a slow cooker. Once the spices have infused the ruby liquid with all of their deliciousness, they can be removed and the spiced cider can be kept warm in the crockpot, ready for top-ups. This recipe makes eight cups, but leftover cider can be stored in the fridge and warmed up on the stove or in the microwave as needed.
Make it: Pour the cranberry cocktail and apple juice into the crock of a slow cooker. Stir in brown sugar. Add whole spices and orange slices. (To make removing spices easier, you can tie them up in a small piece of cheesecloth first.) Cover crock and cook mixture on high for 90 minutes or low for three hours. Carefully remove and discard whole spices and orange slices.
Serve it: Ladle cider into heat-proof cups or mugs. Caution—liquid will be very hot. Let cool before serving to children.
Garnish it: Top with fresh orange and/or apples slices, whole cranberries, or cinnamon sticks, to desired.
Spike it: Add splash of bourbon for the grown-ups.
Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice Pumpkin spice season only happens once a year, but we like to stretch it out as long as we can. Inspired by the Hangar Accent Chair, we’ve whipped up a velvety hot chocolate full of pumpkin-y goodness and a dash of spice. Our PSHC is a close relative of the PSL, but with a few extra health benefits from the antioxidant-rich pumpkin and cocoa. You can use any pure pumpkin puree for this recipe—canned or homemade—just be sure it’s not labelled “pie filling.”
Make it: In a saucepan, whisk together cocoa and brown sugar, breaking up any lumps. Whisk in pumpkin puree and spices. When smooth, slowly whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer over medium-low, stirring often.
Serve it: Divide between 2–4 mugs and top with whipped cream.
Garnish it: Give it a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder.
Spike it: Add a splash of vanilla vodka for the adults.
Use Your Noggin We’re convinced that if the Big Lebowski had been a Christmas movie, Eggnog White Russians would be a bigger thing. In fact, we can’t believe they’re not (yet). Inspired by the Margaux Pushback Chair, which we are also quite certain would be dude-approved, this decadent holiday cocktail combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and rich, creamy eggnog for a sweet take on a classic.
Make it: Fill a rocks or old fashioned glass with ice. Add Kahlua and vodka, stirring to combine. Pour in eggnog, swirling gently.
Garnish it: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or freshly ground nutmeg.
Spike it: Add a splash of vanilla vodka for the adults.
It’s a Marshmallow World Something about the Stella Accent Chair reminds us of puffy marshmallows floating on a cup of creamy white hot chocolate. If you’ve never tried a “white hot,” have we got a treat for you. This is a quick and easy hot drink, perfect after a day of sledding, a winter walk to the mailbox and back, or just a lazy afternoon in front of the TV. White chocolate has a sweet vanilla flavour that’s delicious on its own, but feel free to add any complementary flavourings—a crushed candy cane stirred in would be amazing—or a shot of your favourite something-something. Whatever you do, though, don’t forget the marshmallows!
Make it: In a saucepan, stir together milk and white chocolate. Bring to a simmer over medium-low, stirring often. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Serve it: Divide between 4 mugs and top with marshmallows.
Garnish it: Sprinkles are always a fun touch.
Spike it: Grown-ups can add a shot of peppermint schnapps or their favourite liqueur.
We hope you have been inspired to try our recipes for festive holiday beverages. Be sure to tag @DufresneStyle on Instagram when you mix up a batch and show us how you are spending the holidays at home. Cheers!
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