ST. LOUIS –The cold days of winter are upon us, and, while ice-cold milk is perfect during the heat of summer, it may not be ideal during the ice-cold days of winter. However, milk can still play an important, and delicious, role in our daily routine during this frosty season.
Whether drinking milk cold or warm, there are 13 essential nutrients found in every glass. These nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, potassium, protein and B vitamins, all help the body to function at peak levels. “Individuals are looking to consume three servings of dairy every day, and adding milk to daily drinks is the perfect way to start or end the day in the new year,” said Jessica Kassel, registered dietitian and nutrition educator with St. Louis District Dairy Council.
Coffee is always on top of the list as a favorite beverage for Americans and it offers many opportunities to boost dairy consumption. By adding milk to coffee, you can create cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, flat whites and mochas. Adding a splash of milk or chocolate milk can help individuals get one step closer to consuming three dairy servings every day.
Hot chocolate is another dairy drink that is not only easy to prepare but also delicious during the cold days of winter. Adding cocoa mixture to a mug filled with hot milk creates this comforting dairy drink that is perfect for both adults and kids. Try adding peppermint, cinnamon or whipped cream topping for a new and fun take on this delectable dairy drink.
Looking for something a little simpler? Drinking a glass of warm milk is the perfect end to every day. Stir in honey and vanilla for a little extra flavor without the extra work. Heating up a cup of chocolate milk is another great way for both kids and adults to enjoy a warm dairy drink without the extra ingredients. Individuals can also add a splash of milk to hot tea, creating a creamy version of their favorite hot beverage.
“With a variety of milk options from low-fat milk and flavored milk to lactose-free milk, there is a milk option for everyone to enjoy,” Kassel said. So, this winter, add milk to hot drinks to warm up not only hands and bodies but also hearts with its delicious flavor and nutrient-dense profile.
For more information on warm dairy drinks, visit www.stldairycouncil.org or contact Jessica Kassel at 314-835-9668 or jkassel@stldairycouncil.org. Follow St. Louis District Dairy Council on Facebook and Instagram at STLDairyCouncil.
St. Louis District Dairy Council, a nonprofit nutrition education organization funded by local dairy farmers, serves 131 counties in central/southern Illinois and eastern Missouri.
Cinnamon Milk Coffee
Warm up hearts and hands this winter with the delicious comfort of warm milk in coffee. This cold-weather drink features the addition of cinnamon and vanilla flavors.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients:
½ cup milk
1 Tbsp. brown sugar
¼ tsp. cinnamon
¼ tsp. vanilla
5 oz. hot coffee
Whipped cream
Directions:
• Add milk, brown sugar, cinnamon and vanilla to a small saucepan. Warm mixture over medium-low heat on stovetop. Whisk ingredients while warming.
• Add warmed milk to coffee and top with whipped cream.