Winter in Canada hits different. Between the subzero temperatures and snowdrifts that could swallow your car whole, one thing’s for sure: you need a warm drink to survive. And no, the campus vending machine’s questionable hot chocolate doesn’t count.
Making your own winter beverages at home isn’t just cheaper—it’s a vibe. Plus, with SPC and Tim Hortons Rewards, you can mix a little DIY with some affordable pick-me-ups. Ready to upgrade your mug game? Let’s get brewing.
Why DIY Winter Drinks Are Superior
Store-bought drinks have their perks (looking at you, Tim Hortons), but let’s be real—those daily coffee runs add up fast. Making your own winter drinks at home is:
- Cheaper: You can save money while flexing your barista skills.
- Healthier: Control the sugar, add extras you actually like, and skip the weird syrups you can’t pronounce.
- More fun: You get to experiment and feel fancy without the $7 price tag.
DIY Hot Chocolate: The OG Winter Warmer
Hot chocolate isn’t just a drink—it’s a hug in a mug. But the powdered stuff? Meh. You deserve better.
Classic Homemade Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (or any milk alternative)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (trust me, it works)
Steps:
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour into your favourite mug and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or both (you’re worth it).
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a spicy twist. Feeling bold? Drop in a piece of dark chocolate and let it melt into velvety perfection.
Tea, But Make It Fancy
Tea isn’t just for your grandma—it’s a versatile, cozy drink that can go from basic to bougie with a few tweaks.
DIY Chai Latte
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 black tea bag
- ½ cup milk (or a milk alternative)
- 1 tsp sugar or honey
- Spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper (a pinch of each)
Steps:
- Boil the water and steep the tea bag with the spices for 5 minutes.
- Heat the milk in a separate pan until warm (or froth it for café vibes).
- Combine the spiced tea with the milk and sweetener.
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top and serve.
Pro Tip: Skip the overpriced café chai lattes and make a big batch of the spiced tea base to store in your fridge. Reheat as needed for instant coziness.
Lattes for the Lazy (and Broke)
You don’t need a fancy espresso machine to whip up café-worthy lattes at home. All you need is some strong coffee, milk, and a little creativity.
DIY Vanilla Latte
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (or espresso if you’re fancy)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tbsp sugar or vanilla syrup
Steps:
- Heat the milk and froth it with a whisk (or shake it in a jar if you’re feeling resourceful).
- Pour the coffee into a mug and stir in the sugar or syrup.
- Top with frothed milk and sprinkle some vanilla sugar on top for flair.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of caramel or hazelnut syrup for extra flavour. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a peppermint mocha variation by adding cocoa powder and a drop of peppermint extract.
When DIY Isn’t Cutting It: Tim Hortons to the Rescue
Let’s be real—some days, the thought of DIY anything is too much. That’s where Tim Hortons comes in. With Tim Hortons Rewards linked to your SPC membership, you can enjoy discounts and freebies on your favourite hot drinks.
SPC Partner Deal:
- Link your SPC membership to your Tim Hortons Rewards account to unlock offers like 20% off your order after 2pm or discounts on your coffee-and-donut fixes.
Sometimes, a hot coffee and a Timbits run is the self-care moment you need.
Extra Touches to Level Up Your Winter Beverages
Want to take your homemade drinks to the next level? Here are some tips to upgrade your mug game:
1. Garnishes Are Everything
- Sprinkle cocoa powder, cinnamon, or nutmeg on top for that café aesthetic.
- Add a candy cane for a festive touch.
- Crush cookies or peppermint candies and rim your mug with them.
2. Whipped Cream = Instant Joy
No whipped cream? No problem. Beat heavy cream with a little sugar until fluffy, and boom—you’re fancy now.
3. Ice Cream Isn’t Just for Summer
Drop a scoop of vanilla ice cream into your hot chocolate for an instant float. It’s indulgent, yes, but so worth it.
Winter Drink Pairings: Snacks That Slap
What’s a hot drink without a snack? Pair your creations with:
- Cookies: Homemade or store-bought, they’re a classic.
- Toast with Nutella: Because chocolate and hazelnut make everything better.
- Popcorn: Sweet or salty, it’s the ultimate cozy snack.
Final Thoughts: Stay Warm, Stay Sipping
Winter might be freezing, but your drinks don’t have to be. Whether you’re whipping up a luxurious hot chocolate, experimenting with chai, or grabbing a Tim Hortons coffee with your SPC savings, there’s no shortage of ways to stay cozy.
So, grab your mug, crank up your playlist, and make winter your season. With these recipes and SPC perks, you’re all set to sip your way to warmer days.