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As a Sagittarius, December is naturally one of my favorite times of year. It’s not just my birthday I get excited about, but also all the festiveness. It doesn’t matter what holiday you celebrate — December is the perfect time to rest, gather with friends and family, and get cozy around a shared meal. I love the comfort foods we gravitate to in winter, too: hot cocoa, warm cookies, and cinnamon-kissed desserts and drinks.
The new grocery items that arrive in December reflect this time of year. Last week, the best and most exciting finds included an eggnog-inspired yogurt bursting with the fragrance of nutmeg, a limited-edition pear and cinnamon-flavored energy drink, and a nostalgic yet new take on a classic rolled tortilla chip. This week, I’m updating this list with the best new ways to start and end your day. And check back next week for more of December’s must-buy grocery launches.
Credit: Kat Thompson
1. Nestlé Carnation Zero Sugar Original Coffee Creamer
When I was growing up, my family’s pantry was always stocked with cans of Carnation evaporated milk for Thai iced tea and coffee — so it only makes sense that Nestlé Carnation would develop a coffee creamer. This creamer, although sugar-free, boasts a sweet cream flavor that doesn’t have an artificial sweetener aftertaste. The viscosity is ideal, too: thick enough to feel indulgent and creamy, but not too thick that it alters the sipping pleasure of a cup of coffee. I will definitely reach for this for my morning cup.
Buy: Nestlé Carnation Zero Sugar Original Coffee Creamer, $2.99 for 32 ounces at Walmart
Credit: Kat Thompson
2. Avec Fuji Apple and Cardamom Premium Carbonated Drink
Winter is fast approaching, but I’m not giving up fall flavors anytime soon. This new Avec can, which is made in collaboration with Yes! Apples (a network of upstate New York apple farmers), tastes like grown-up apple juice in the best way. It’s pleasantly tart and balanced with notes of cardamom, tarragon, and lemon verbena. The slim cans somehow feel more adult, too. If you want a non-alcoholic and sparkly alternative to holiday drinking this year, pick up a case of this.
Buy: Avec Fuji Apple and Cardamom Premium Carbonated Drink, $36 for 12 (8.45-ounce) cans at Avec; also available at Wegmans and Sprouts
3. Chobani Spiced Holiday Nog
I am an eggnog enthusiast and proud of it. One thing I will say about eggnog, however, is it can, at times, be too viscous and cloying. This is where Chobani does everything right with its holiday-inspired yogurt: The yogurt isn’t too thick and stodgy, while the flavor strikes the perfect balance between sweet and naturally tart. The addition of nutmeg makes it feel even more like the festive holiday drink.
4. Red Bull Pear Cinnamon Winter Edition
Pear is the most prominent flavor in this winter-edition Red Bull. It’s juicy and sweet with just a hint of cinnamon that follows the initial fruity flavor — almost like a poached pear in energy drink form. Although I’m partial to coffee and tea for a kick of caffeine, I could see this Red Bull also working as an excellent mixer for holiday-themed cocktails.
5. Zack’s Mighty Rolled Tortilla Chips Chile Lime
Zack’s Mighty tortilla chips are made with regenerative corn and an ingredient list that is easy to follow. Beyond the company’s commitment to sustainability, the chip itself has no faults. The chile lime flavor boasts ample heat and the right amount of zippiness. It’s rolled into neat cylinders, providing a satisfying crunch. Although the chips are sturdy enough to stand up to queso and guacamole, they are great to snack on as is.