This official first week of winter has been cold and the urge to hibernate is rising. I have been spending a fair bit of time snuggled up (boy, cat, fluffy stuffed toy, blanket – it doesn’t matter) but at the same time dreaming about warm comfort food and hearty winter cooking. So I decided to scour Pinterest and make a little list of a few new things I really want to try before the season is over. There’s some drinks, savoury and sweet dishes in the mix. I feel like 8 is achievable between now and what I am calling the ‘official’ end of winter – my trip to Manila in August. I’ll share the results on Instagram and here on the blog.

1. I’ve certainly drank enough Espresso Martinis over the years but I’ve never tried making one at home. It’s dark, strong and sweet – the perfect cheeky tipple on a cold night.

2. Making Homemade Chai from scratch has been on my list for the last several winters, and this will be the year for sure! It’s a great opportunity to put your own spin on it – maybe pink peppercorns, some coconut or cocoa nibs for something unique.

3. Pull Apart Bread looks like so much fun. I will probably try a different flavour combination, but I love the look of this Baklava version from Sprinkle Bakes.

4. I can’t get over how amazing the flavours would be in these Earl Grey Chocolate Chip Cookies from Designlovefest. I’ve had this recipe on the list for a few months but winter will be the perfect time to try them, along with a hot cup of tea of course.

5. These cheesy Baked Lamb Meatballs from Donna Hay look like a fantastic easy weeknight dinner high on the comfort factor, and sure to warm you up from the inside out. Done! Twice! Total delicious comfort food. A layer of cheese is a must.

7. This Sticky Bourbon and Cola Pudding recipe is from the Pitt Cue Co. cookbook from the restaurant in London, which I bought a few months ago. I have to try this recipe before winter is over, there is no doubt about it. Done! Recipe here

8. It seems criminally easy to have a fresh Gooey Molten Chocolate Mug Cake in just a few minutes. What could be better on a cold night? Recipe and beautiful photos by Half Baked Harvest.

Do you have any recipes you’re dying to try before the end of winter? Leave a comment below or on Instagram #spicyicecreamrecipewishlist