Turn Up the Heat With These Hot Drinks
With the first official frost taking place this next week, there’s no better time to round up some of our favorite warm beverages that are manufactured right here in Utah. Not only can you create a sense of coziness while you continue to work from home, but you can also support local businesses and stimulate our economy! Whether you’re looking to decrease your caffeine intake or add some variation to your winter drink lineup, this list will be sure to inspire.
Stephen’s Gourmet Hot Chocolate
Everyone has seen the infamous Stephen’s Gourmet Hot Chocolate in their local grocery store, but did you know that this decadent beverage got its start in Centerville, UT? The original founder, Steven Story, turned his passion for homemade hot cocoa into a business back in the 1990s. His unique approach to flavored hot cocoas quickly gained traction and these yummy concoctions are now available across the world. With flavors like Malt Shoppe Cocoa, Chocolate Raspberry Cocoa, Cookies ‘ Crème, and Peanut Butter Cup Cocoa, there are more than enough options to get you through the entire winter. Stephen’s also offers a Citrus & Spice Wassail for those who prefer a slightly less indulgent option.
The Chocolate Conspiracy
The Chocolate Conspiracy is a gourmet chocolate company that was founded by AJ Wentworth in Salt Lake City, Utah. AJ uses his knowledge in Holistic Health Counseling from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, along with his experience at the Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center and Live-Foods Instructor certification to transform organic cacao beans into bars of delicious chocolate without the use of heat. This process allows him to better preserve the nutritional benefits of the cacao beans. In addition, The Chocolate Conspiracy never uses refined sugars, soy, gluten, or any artificial flavors or ingredients. Instead, they use raw unfiltered honey to sweeten their products and certified organic ingredients as much as possible. This same thoughtfulness was used to create their Artisan drinking chocolate. What is even more impressive about this hot beverage is the fact that it is sweetened with coconut palm sugar and features mesquite powder. Together, this combination is a low-glycemic treat that is not accompanied by blood sugar spikes. What a perfect way for anyone who is trying to lead a healthier lifestyle to enjoy a tasty pick me up!
Perk Energy
Rena and Gary are a husband and wife duo who are incredibly passionate about health and fitness. They also happen to have a beautiful blended family of 7 children! Their passion for health coupled with their desperate need for energy led them down the path to creating Perk Energy. Perk originally started as a healthful energy drink to help these parents get their bums out of bed in the morning. It has since evolved to include BCAAs, a relaxation drink mix, and even an anti-inflammatory beef broth. Perk is most well known for their original Chai Latte Energy formula that is often referred to as a Hug in a Mug, Christmas in a Cup, and Motivation in a Mug. This warm drink features protein, collagen, antioxidants, and caffeine which are sure to help you start your day on the right foot. For anyone looking to wind down, Perk’s Mint Chocolate Chill drink mix will do the trick. With their trademarked Power Sleep mineral complex that is designed to enhance sleep quality and hormone production, along with glycine to improve relaxation and preserve muscle, this is a delicious brew that will be sure to help you sleep soundly.
Crio Bru
If you love the ritualistic nature of brewing coffee but are looking to lower your acidity intake, boost your immune system, lose weight, increase focus, reduce stress, and sleep better, Crio Bru may be exactly what you’re looking for. Crio Bru is 100% pure cacao, which means that it is also great for anyone who opts to lead a keto, paleo, Whole 30, non-GMO, Kosher, 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, cholesterol-free, soy-free, sodium-free, or sugar-free lifestyle. Another unique element of Crio Bru is theobromine. Theobromine is a naturally occurring stimulant that is much milder and longer-lasting than caffeine. This Utah-based company offers a variety of roasts so that you can find one that resonates with your unique taste buds. Be sure to check out their sample packs to find your perfect fit!
Steamed Golden Milk at Redmond Heritage Farms
The final cozy drink on this list is unfortunately not one that can be delivered to your doorstep. Redmond Heritage Farms has a Farm Kitchen location in both Orem and Sugarhouse. At either of these storefronts, you can order what is called a steamed Golden Milk. This rich beverage features turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, Kerrygold butter, Real Salt, and raw honey. With the potential benefits of reduced inflammation, prevention of cell damage, improved mood and brain function, prevention of heart disease, enhanced immunity, and so much more, it’s no wonder that this golden powerhouse has become increasingly popular. Turmeric has also been proven to aid digestion, provide a sense of calm, and soothe aches and pains, making it a wonderful addition to your daily routine! If you’ve heard rumors of the unusual taste of turmeric, Redmond also has a delicious Toasted Marshmallow and Chocolate warm milk for anyone looking to adventure a little less on the wild side.