For most, ‘tis the season to be hectic. Whether it’s working, planning, wrapping, cooking, baking, shopping, partying, travelling, or just dealing with a busy mind, things at this time of year can weigh heavily on our wellbeing. In the middle of it all, we often forget that winter is also a season of pause – a time when the world itself slows, quietens, and invites us to do the same.
Among the lists and the noise, a small ritual can make all the difference: a warm drink, a still moment, a breath. Something simple that recentres you – a small winter gift to yourself – before you step back into the rush. One simple way to create these moments is with a cup of coffee.
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a cup of coffee infused with gentle spices. This Home Spiced Coffee is easy to make, filling your kitchen (or at the very least, your saucepan area and cup) with the seasonal aromas of warming cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate. Perfect to savour on your cosy couch or on a saunter through your frosty garden – small moments to pause, slow down, and remember the quiet joy of winter.
Do you have your own way to invite the calm? Please let us know in the comments what helps you recentre.
So, put the phone away and get ready to relax. It is not selfish to care for yourself in the hustle and bustle of life. These small acts are what make genuine connection possible. Connection begins with being grounded in yourself. Warmth is easier to share when you feel it first. And community grows strongest when the individuals within it are cared for. Caring for the self builds steadiness, empathy, and presence – qualities that ripple outward to others.
Ingredients
- 200 ml freshly brewed coffee (medium or dark roast)
- 150 ml full fat milk
- 1 tsp cocoa powder or 1 small square dark chocolate (optional, I have included a link for gluten-free Irish choc if needed)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1–2 tsp sweetener (I use 1 tsp honey and 1 tsp maple syrup)
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Method
- Brew coffee: Use your preferred method (filter, espresso, French press) and pour into a heatproof cup or jug.
- Heat milk: Gently warm milk in a saucepan as your coffee is brewing.
- Add spices and chocolate: When the milk has warmed, add the cinnamon, nutmeg, cocoa powder or chocolate, and sweetener.
- Combine and serve: Unless you have used the chocolate square, 5 minutes on the hob should be enough for the milk to infuse all the lovely flavours. Pour the milk mixture into your coffee and stir. If you’re having the whipped cream, spoon it on top; and if you fancy, add a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder. Voilà, now savour your delicious moment of calm!
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