Back when you were a kid, cookies and milk were de rigeur for Christmas Eve. Somewhere along the way, you developed a more sophisticated palate -- i.e. you started boozing. Take a break from the brandy-laced nog, the mulled wine and the peppermint martinis with these traditional recipes that are suitable for kids and well-behaved adults alike.

Egg Flip

What's the difference between eggnog and egg flip? The temperature. Warm 3/4 cup of organic milk in a saucepan over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk one egg with a teaspoon of sugar, then pour in the milk. Stir, then strain the mixture into a mug. Sprinkle it with a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, hearty drink that'll put 'em right to sleep.

Wassail

Keep a pot of this simmering on the stove, and you'll tempt everyone in the house. For six servings, add a quart of apple cider, a cup of orange juice and a quarter cup of lemon juice to a large saucepan. Add about six whole cloves, two cinnamon sticks, a small pinch of powdered ginger and a dash of nutmeg. Simmer it for at least half an hour, or leave it going all day.

Gingered Milk

For something a little less traditional, try this warm, sweet milk drink with a ginger kick. Heat one cup of milk in a small saucepan with a tablespoon of golden syrup or light molasses. Keep stirring the pot to make sure it doesn't burn or boil. When it's warm, add a half teaspoon of powdered ginger and whisk the mixture until it's frothy. Serve it immediately for ultimate milk-mustache hijinks.

Hot Chocolate

Yes, it's a no-brainer -- but don't just microwave some instant cocoa. Instead, try these gourmet cocoa recipes that will make everybody grin.

image: Ernst Vikne

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