3 Cozy Herbal Drinks to Welcome Fall (That Kids Will Love Too)

Fall doesn’t just smell different—it tastes different. As the evenings get darker and the chill sets in, I crave warm mugs and gentle herbs that feel like a hug from the inside out.

And let’s be honest—my daughter (and the rest of the family!) is more likely to drink her herbs when they taste like a treat. That’s where these cozy, family-friendly recipes come in.

I make these after school, before bed, or in the kitchen while we’re unwinding from the day. No coffee shop needed. Just herbs, a mug, and a few quiet minutes.

🍵 Want to print and save these recipes? Grab the Cozy Herbal Drink Printable Recipe Card

Made for You If...

• You want herbal drink ideas that the whole family will actually enjoy

• You’re trying to cut back on caffeine, sugar, or store-bought syrups

• You love a good warm drink but want better-for-you options

• You enjoy winding down with something nourishing in a mug

What You'll Come Away With:

• 3 cozy herbal drink recipes (tea, milk, and cocoa base)

• How to adjust each for kids or grownups

• Suggestions for herbal combinations and toppings

• A matching printable recipe card set (coming soon!)

1. Lemon Balm + Chamomile Sweet Tea Latte

This is my favorite “everyone’s a little wiggly” tea. I usually make it after dinner, when things start unraveling and we all need a calm landing.

To Make:

• Brew 1 tsp each dried lemon balm and chamomile in 1 cup hot water for 5–7 minutes.

• Strain, then add a splash of milk (oat, almond, or dairy all work!)

• Sweeten with raw honey to taste.

Kid-Friendly Twist:
Serve lukewarm with a drop of vanilla extract and their favorite mug. I keep these mason jar lids with BPA-free silicone straws (affiliate) on hand—they make everything feel like a treat.

👉 Why it works: Lemon balm and chamomile are both gentle nervines—perfect for digestion and unwinding. The milk makes it feel more like a dessert tea.

2. Cocoa & Cinnamon Herbal Hug

This one feels indulgent but is surprisingly herbal-powered. We call it “cozy cocoa” in our house, and it’s my go-to when we’re home from school or stuck inside on a rainy day.

To Make:

• Mix 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa with 1 cup warm milk of choice.

• Stir in 1/4 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp powdered holy basil (or skip for toddlers)

• Sweeten with maple syrup or a touch of stevia.

Add This:
A sprinkle of nutmeg or a marshmallow makes it extra special. I keep a small jar of homemade cinnamon-sugar mix on the counter to dust on top.

👉 Why it works: Cocoa is comforting. Cinnamon is warming and antimicrobial. Holy basil helps ease stress and mental tension (and no one knows it’s there!).

🛒 Want to try powdered holy basil? I recommend this organic version on Amazon (affiliate).

3. Apple Peel & Ginger Spiced Tea

This one started as a zero-waste experiment with apple peels from pie prep—and now it’s a fall ritual. It smells like warm cider and feels like something your grandma would make.

To Make:

• Simmer 1/2 cup fresh apple peels with a few slices of ginger in 1.5 cups of water.

• Reduce to 1 cup, then strain and sweeten lightly if needed.

Grown-Up Tip:
Add a splash of lemon or raw apple cider vinegar for a punchy tonic effect. I drink this while tidying the kitchen after dinner—warm, grounding, and slightly spicy.

👉 Why it works: Apple peels are soothing to the digestive tract and naturally sweet. Ginger is warming, great for circulation, and helps settle the stomach.

Final Thought:

You don’t need fancy ingredients or a stocked apothecary to bring warmth and nourishment to your mugs this season. Start with what you have. Add honey. Add herbs. Stir with intention.

These drinks are part of our rhythm now. A way to connect after long days and busy weeks. I hope they bring you that same moment of pause and comfort.

🫖 Looking for a cute teapot? I love this set from Amazon—sturdy and perfect for herbal blends (affiliate).

Love these cozy drink recipes? Grab the printable drink recipes here

Disclaimer:

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. All content is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.