As winter settles in, it's the perfect time to enjoy the comforting sweetness of homemade desserts. From spiced wassail to decadent pies, these winter recipes invite us to indulge in the delightful flavors that make the season so special.
-Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa
Related to French hot cocoa (although not quite the same thing), dark chocolate hot cocoa is sure to warm you up, and is surprisingly easy to make! Many different types of hot chocolate exist, such as French and Mexican, but documentation proves hot chocolate is mainly traced back to the Mayans! One great recipe is this one.
-Wassail
Wassail is mostly associated with Christmas due to its frequent use as a lyric in many Christmas carols. This warm and spicy drink originated as part of a pagan ritual in England. It was modified over time, eventually becoming the tasty, apple-cider-like drink we know and love today! This is a great recipe to try.
-Pecan Pie
Pies are a favorite during holidays, and pecan is perfect for the late winter because no fruits are needed to be in season! An early form is referenced in 1824, but it mostly gained popularity in the South in the mid-1870s/1880s. A must-have for groups and parties, try this recipe!
-Snickerdoodles
Almost everyone loves cookies. Snickerdoodles are voted the second favorite cookie in America, right after chocolate chip. Snickerdoodles are perfect for chilly winter days and are simple to make, as well! They likely originated in Germany or England and were brought to America by Dutch immigrants in the 1700s. Though always popular in Mennonite and Amish communities, their popularity skyrocketed in 1891. Try one great recipe here!
-Fondues
From the French “fondre,” fondues are credited to have come from Switzerland and brought to France and Belgium in the early eighteenth century. Fondues, savory or sweet, are ideal for cozy winter nights. Cheese is the most common, but other types include caramel, chocolate, bourguignonne, lemon, and apple. Give this recipe a shot!
Image Source: https://thelemonbowl.com/dark-chocolate-hot-cocoa/
Sources:
https://www.eater.com/2016/11/23/13575790/pecan-pie-history-about
https://www.slaveryandremembrance.org/almanack/life/christmas/hist_wassail.cfm
https://www.allrecipes.com/snickerdoodle-history-how-the-sweet-cookie-came-to-be-8410635