Cozy Winter Warmers: Comforting Vanilla-rich Drinks for Chilly Days

With several weeks of winter still ahead, we are seeking comfort in cozy, warm mugs of delicious things. At Rodelle, we’re all about finding creative ways to showcase the depth and flavor of our vanilla products. From pure vanilla extract to vanilla bean paste, and vanilla beans, we have the perfect ingredients to add instant richness and those gorgeous little specks of real vanilla!

This winter and spring, we’re highlighting some of our top indulgent, cozy drink ideas that are perfect until it’s summer cocktail season! These drinks celebrate cozy warmth and are easy to make at home. You can also save money and stay consistent with your eating/drinking habits by making choices on the ingredients you add.

Vanilla-Spiced Hot Cocoa

We have FOUR amazing hot cocoa recipes that are unique in their own ways – and each delicious! Our favorites have vanilla (ok, they all have our vanilla in the recipes or toppings…can you blame us for not being able to pick a favorite?) and are made with rich, decadent Rodelle Gourmet Baking Cocoa.

  1. Mexican Hot Cocoa: this spiced cocoa is incredible and will heat up your evenings! Get the recipe! >
  2. Gingerbread Hot Cocoa and Marshmallow Men: this festive recipe is not just for the holiday season. The cozy gingerbread spices are excellent year round when paired with vanilla and cocoa! Get the recipe! >
  3. Decadent Hot Cocoa: This is a recipe for that classic, rich and creamy hot cocoa. It contains our Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Beans and Gourmet Baking Cocoa. Top it with vanilla bean whipped cream to add an extra scoop of decadence. Get the recipe! >
  4. Italian Hot Cocoa (Cioccolato Caldo): This Italian hot cocoa recipe is thick and rich. By using dark chocolate chips and white chocolate chips, you get a creamy smooth hot chocolate finish and also perfect blend of sweetness. Add our vanilla bean whipped cream to really top it off! Get the recipe! >

Almond-Vanilla Steamed Milk

This is the perfect pairing of almond and vanilla to make a mellow, nutty (but nut-free!) nostalgic drink. You can control the sweetness and temperature to easily make this a nightly treat for kiddos and feel less guilt than something more sugary!

Make it!

  • Steam 6 to 8 ounces of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of Rodelle Almond Extract
  • Swirl in 1 teaspoon of Rodelle Vanilla Bean Paste
  • Taste and add in honey or brown sugar to taste

London Fog Tea Latte

A London Fog Latte is a special treat if you’re feeling a bit fancy. This recipe can be done with any type of tea, and really marries together the flavors we love. With vanilla paste and vanilla extract (and your favorite tea), this drink feels extra special but is so easy to make that it might be part of your every morning routine before you know it!

Get the recipe! >

Tips for Using Vanilla Bean Paste in Warm Drinks

Here’s how to get the best results if you want to experiment with Vanilla Bean Paste in your favorite hot drink recipes!

  • Stir it in while the drink is hot so the paste melts evenly.
  • Start with ½ teaspoon, then adjust to taste—vanilla bean paste is potent and aromatic.
  • Use it as a topper: swirl a small amount on whipped cream or foam for extra flavor and visual flair.