Cozy Up with These Warm Dried Fruit-Infused Drinks
There’s something about fall that makes you want to slow down, pull on your coziest sweater, and wrap your hands around a warm mug. And in our family, we believe there’s no better way to do that than by dropping a little dried fruit magic into the mix.
That’s right. The Mariani dried fruits you already love for snacking and baking? They’ve got a hidden talent. When steeped or simmered into your favorite warm drinks, they bring bold, comforting flavor and just the right touch of sweetness - no syrupy shortcuts needed. It’s a simple way to turn an everyday cup into something worth sipping slowly.
Here are some of our favorite ways to sip into the season:
Prune Spice Tea
Like a hug in a mug. This naturally sweet, gently spiced drink combines Mariani Pitted Prunes with cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of orange for a soothing drink that’s as good for your senses as it is for your routine.
How to make it:
Simmer 4-5 Mariani Pitted Prunes with 2 cups of water, a cinnamon stick, 2-3 cloves, and a strip of orange peel. Let it gently bubble for 10-15 minutes. Strain into a mug and enjoy warm.
We love it as a post-dinner sip, but it also makes a comforting midday pause.
Cranberry Orange Cider
Sweet, tart, and perfect for chilly evenings. This one's a crowd-pleaser. Mariani Sweetened Cranberries add a sweet-tart kick to your favorite apple cider, while fresh orange brings a sunny note that makes every sip feel like a small celebration.
How to make it:
Add ⅓ cup Mariani Sweetened Cranberries and a few orange slices to 4 cups of apple cider in a saucepan. Warm gently for 20-30 minutes until the flavors are well combined. Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra depth.
This is the perfect drink for weekend get-togethers, movie nights, or even your next fall potluck. Goes great with a batch of Chewy Oatmeal Cherry Cookies! The soft texture and hint of cinnamon in the cookies make them a perfect match.
Apricot Chai
Sweet, spicy, and surprisingly simple. Mariani Dried Apricots lend a rich, fruity depth to classic chai flavors. Add a splash of milk for a drink that feels like a little luxury.
How to make it:
Brew 2 cups of strong black tea (or use 2 chai tea bags). In the same pot, add 3 chopped Mariani Dried Apricots, a cinnamon stick, and a few crushed cardamom pods. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Strain, then add your favorite milk (dairy or non-dairy) and sweeten to taste if needed.
Enjoy this one wrapped in a blanket on the couch. Pair it with Dried Apricot Crostinis, a sweet-savory bite that’s just as special for Sunday brunch as it is for midweek snack boards.
Bonus: Pineapple Mango Colada (Warm & Cozy Style!)
Who says tropical flavors are just for summer? Mariani Dried Mango and Dried Pineapple bring sunny vibes to this creamy, coconut-based drink, served warm.
How to make it:
In a small pot, combine ¼ cup chopped Mariani Sweetened Mango, ¼ cup chopped Mariani Sweetened Pineapple Bites, 1 cup coconut milk, and ½ cup water. Simmer gently for 10 minutes. Blend until smooth and frothy. Add a splash of rum (optional) or serve it alcohol-free for everyone to enjoy.
Perfect for brunches, book club, or just when you want to pretend you're on vacation.
Fall gives us plenty of reasons to slow down and savor the little things - like good company, crisp air, and the comfort of something warm in your hands. Around here, that moment often starts with a mug on the stove and some Mariani dried fruit in the mix.
So go ahead - brew, steep, simmer, and stir. We hope these cozy drink ideas bring a little extra flavor, comfort, and joy to your season (and maybe even inspire a new fall tradition or two).
