THREE WARM AUTUMN DRINKS TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET CRAVINGS

As the days get colder, there is nothing quite like a warm drink – especially when the craving for something sweet kicks in. Instead of another sugary coffee, hot chocolate or dessert, try one of these simple autumn drinks filled with the flavors of fruit and warming spices.

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Cinnamon, apples, ginger, berries and dried fruit can turn an ordinary drink into a cozy autumn ritual. And when prepared without too much added sugar, these drinks can be a great alternative to higher-calorie treats.

Of course, there is no magic drink that will make extra pounds disappear or dramatically boost your metabolism overnight. Still, choosing healthier drinks can be part of a balanced diet, especially when they replace sugary beverages and desserts.

DRIED FRUIT IN A CUP

A warm dried-fruit drink is perfect for chilly autumn afternoons. Naturally sweet and aromatic, it can easily be prepared in a larger batch.

Ingredients:

300 g dried fruit

80–100 g raisins

2 l water

honey to taste

Wash the fruit thoroughly, add it to boiling water and simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and leave covered for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop. Add a little honey once the drink has cooled slightly.

APPLE AND CINNAMON – AN AUTUMN CLASSIC

It is hard to imagine autumn without the comforting aroma of apples and cinnamon. Add cloves and a touch of ginger, and you have a wonderfully fragrant drink that is perfect for cold days and a good option when you are craving something sweet.

Ingredients:

2 apples

1 l water

1 cinnamon stick

2–3 cloves

a little ginger or cardamom

honey to taste

Cut the apples into pieces, add the spices and water, and bring to a boil. Cook for another minute or two, then remove from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before adding honey.

A BERRY DRINK FOR THE END OF THE DAY

If you prefer refreshing, slightly tart flavors, try a combination of berries, citrus and warming spices.

Cranberries, raspberries, currants or other berries work beautifully with lemon or orange, while a few mint leaves can add an extra touch of freshness.

Ingredients:

100 g berries

1 slice of lemon or orange

1 cinnamon stick

1 clove

a little grated ginger

mint, optional

honey to taste

500 ml water

Gently crush the berries, add the citrus and spices, pour in the water and heat briefly. Once the drink has cooled slightly, add a teaspoon of honey if desired.