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12 Cozy Warm Drinks to Boost Your Energy This Winter (That Aren’t Coffee)

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January 16, 2025

When the temperatures drop and energy levels dip, there’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm, comforting drink. But not every cozy beverage has to be coffee. Whether you’re looking to cut back on caffeine, avoid the mid-afternoon jitters, or explore new flavors, these 12 warm drinks are packed with energy-boosting benefits to keep you fueled all winter long.

From adaptogenic teas to nutrient-rich hot chocolates and broths, these options provide sustained energy while prioritizing your wellness. And the best part? Each one is as delicious as it is functional.

Dream Tea NYC 

For a cozy, personalized energy boost this winter, look no further than Dream Tea NYC. This AAPI and woman-owned brand offers an impressive 650 tea combinations, allowing you to customize your tea blend to perfectly suit your taste buds. Choose from fruity, floral, earthy, or spicy selections and one of three tea bases—green tea, black tea, or chamomile—to create your ideal brew. Not in the mood to experiment? Dream Tea has a selection of preset blends, like the 7 AM Blend, which is crafted to provide a smooth, energizing pick-me-up with the gentle kick of green tea.

Depending on which tea base you use, each serving could contain up to 50 milligrams of caffeine. 

Buy it: Dream Tea NYC

 

Sip Herbals 

For those who love the taste of coffee but prefer to avoid caffeine, Sip Herbals offers a soothing and gut-friendly alternative. Made with organic ingredients like roasted chicory root, carob, and dandelion root, this herbal coffee substitute mimics the rich body of coffee while being entirely caffeine-free. It’s perfect for individuals managing autoimmune concerns, sensitive stomachs, or anyone looking to prioritize gut health.

“This coffee substitute is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy steady energy throughout the day without the jittery feeling or midday crash often associated with traditional coffee,” says registered dietitian nutritionist and diabetes expert, Jess DeGore. “What sets it apart is its gut-supportive ingredients, such as chicory root and dandelion root, which are known for their prebiotic properties. These ingredients help nourish beneficial gut bacteria and promote healthy digestion, making this drink not just a substitute but a wellness-focused alternative to your morning brew.”

Buy it: Sip Herbals

Jade Leaf Matcha 

For a cozy, energizing winter drink, Jade Leaf Matcha offers organic matcha sourced directly from tea farms in Japan. Known for its ability to provide sustained energy without the jitters, matcha is a perfect alternative to coffee. Jade Leaf’s Matcha Latte Mix comes in two delicious new flavors: creamy Vanilla and smooth Strawberry, making it easier than ever to whip up a warm and comforting café-quality latte at home. 

Each serving contains 30-40 milligrams of caffeine. 

Buy it: Jade Leaf Matcha

Bone broth 

Warm, protein-rich, and deeply nourishing, bone broth is a fantastic choice for cozy winter sipping. Packed with collagen and amino acids, it supports joint health, digestion, and immunity while providing a comforting way to stay hydrated during colder months. We’re big fans of Brodo Bone Broth, which delivers 10 grams of protein per cup and comes in a wide variety of flavors. Of course, you can also make your own bone broth!

Buy it: Brodo Bone Broth

Kamana 

For a unique, cozy drink that mimics the taste and ritual of coffee without caffeine or acidity, Kamana is a standout choice. Made with mesquite, a nutrient-rich ingredient popular in South African coffee shops, Kamana brews just like coffee and provides a natural energy boost. It’s perfect for those seeking a warm, satisfying drink without the jitters. 

Buy it: Kamana

Yuja Cha (Yuzu Tea)

Dietitian Cara Harbstreet loves to sip on Yuja cha– or Yuzu tea –a Korean staple that combines hot water with yuja-cheong, a type of yuzu fruit marmalade. “This warming drink is an easy way to stay hydrated and energized this season with no caffeine,” she says. “Typically sweetened with honey, it has a bright, unique, citrusy flavor, reminiscent of mandarin oranges, grapefruit, and tangy lemons.”  

To make it, Harbstreet says you’ll need to look for yuzu marmalade (often labeled “honey citron”) in Asian grocery stores or online. Stir 1-2 tablespoons into 8 ounces of hot water and enjoy. 

“Honey is a simple carbohydrate that’s easily digested for a quick boost of energy,” explains Harbstreet. “And yuzu is a good source of vitamin C to support immune health.” 

MUD\WTR 

For a warm, energizing drink that skips the jitters, registered dietitian Linsday Cohen swears by MUD\WTR. “MUD\WTR is a coffee alternative that contains a blend of organic ingredients like masala chai, cacao, turmeric, and adaptogenic mushrooms,” explains Cohen. “It’s designed to provide sustained energy without the jitters and crash associated with coffee. 

Whether you’re looking to cut back on caffeine or simply start a new morning routine, MUD\WTR offers a functional alternative to start your day feeling balanced and focused. 

Each serving contains 35 milligrams of caffeine. 

Buy it: MUD\WTR

Blume Beetroot Superfood Latte

If you’re in the mood for a caffeine-free energy boost with a naturally sweet and earthy flavor, Blume Beetroot Superfood Latte has you covered. Each cup contains the equivalent of one whole beet, providing a natural source of nitrates to support energy and circulation. The blend also features cinnamon, ginger, and a hint of clove for a warm, aromatic experience. 

Buy it: Blume Beetroot Superfood Latte

Four Sigmatic Mood Organic Herbal Tea 

 

For a cozy drink that supports both mood and mental focus, Four Sigmatic Lemon Balm & Rose Instant Tea is an excellent choice. This organic blend combines soothing lemon balm and fragrant rose with reishi mushroom and tulsi, adaptogens known for their calming and focus-enhancing properties. 

Since this blend is caffeine-free, you can enjoy it any time of day you need a bit of an energy and mental boost. 

Buy it: Four Sigmatic Mood Organic Herbal Tea

Turmeric hot chocolate 

Looking for a comforting, cozy drink that also offers wellness benefits? This Turmeric Hot Chocolate is a delicious way to indulge while nourishing your body. Featuring anti-inflammatory turmeric and rich cacao, this warming blend is perfect for chilly days when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying.

The recipe also includes collagen, which may support skin, hair, and joint health, making it a well-rounded treat that feels as good as it tastes. For an extra-special touch, top it with coconut whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Red velvet hot cocoa 

This red velvet hot cacao recipe from sports dietitian and fitness coach Umo Callins is more than a cozy winter drink–it’s a functional treat packed with health benefits. The secret ingredient is resG prebeet® ENERGY Prebiotic, which promotes better blood flow, circulation, and energy levels through boosted nitric oxide production. According to Callins, the added methylated B12 helps support natural energy without caffeine or added sugar. 

Ingredients (serves 1):

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or preferred milk)
  • 1 scoop resG prebeet® ENERGY Prebiotic
  • 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • A pinch of salt
  • Natural sweetener of choice (stevia, monk fruit, or none)

Directions:

  1. Heat the almond milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm (avoid boiling). Let sit for a minute.
  2. In a mug, whisk together resG prebeet® ENERGY, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Gradually pour the warm milk into the mug, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract and sweetener, if desired.

Mulled wine-inspired mocktail

This mulled wine-inspired mocktail, created by Callins, is a cozy beverage that blends seasonal spices with functional benefits. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a chilly day, or power up for your next adventure. 

This warm mocktail features 2before, a pre-workout made from blackcurrants, which is rich in anthocyanins that support blood flow and oxygen delivery to provide a natural energy boost. 

Ingredients (serves 2-3):

  • 2–3 cups water (adjust based on your flavor preference)
  • 2 scoops 2before
  • 2–3 star anise
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 3 slices each of orange and lemon
  • A few slices of fresh ginger

Directions:

  1. In a small pot, combine water, star anise, cinnamon sticks, orange and lemon slices, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  2. Turn off the heat and stir in the honey until dissolved.
  3. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding 2 scoops of 2before, stirring gently to preserve the powerful anthocyanins.
  4. Pour into mugs and enjoy warm! For best results, consume within minutes to maximize the bioavailability of the anthocyanins.

 

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