Every year the autumn season is officially inaugurated in with the return of the PSL, or Pumpkin Spice Latte. It’s a seasonal beverage we all love to hate and all hate to love. This delicious flavored drink provides its consumers with visions of cozy, October nights. There’s nothing like a warm, pumpkin flavored beverage to combat the oncoming winter season. But after the years of constant hype, some customers cringe at the sight of this drink. Fear not! Here are some recipes that will make you rethink what your signature seasonal beverage should be.
Apple Cider Chai Latte
What is the natural opponent of coffee in the beverage industry? Why, tea of course! It can be as caffeinated as a cup of coffee and taste just as good. Add in some natural health benefits and you have caught everyone’s attention. Apple Cider Chai has the warmth and spice of a pumpkin latte but contributes an entirely different flavor. A light, sweet, and juicy drink that is easy to prepare. You can get creative and mix up your own portions of chai tea and cider or opt for an already blended Apple Cider Chai tea packet.
How To Prepare:
- Use prepared Apple Cider Chai Tea packets and stir into a glass of 195 degree water.
- Let steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Add steamed milk to taste.
- Top with cinnamon.
Nutella Hot Chocolate
Nutella has been making it’s way into breakfast foods, lunch boxes and even bakery items so why not incorporate some nutella into your classic hot chocolate recipe. This is a great option for those who love chocolate, hazelnuts and rich, decadent drinks. It’s also a great way to stay warm when taking the kids out for trick-or-treating!
How To Prepare:
- Take milk of your preference, a scoop of nutella and mix over high-heat.
- Top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream.
- Let cool before consuming.
Enjoy the rich, creamy flavor!
Spiced Autumn Punch
This is a great drink to have in the punch bowl at your costume party and requires little effort. A blended beverage a bartender could be proud of, using items you probably have laying around in your fridge. Don’t forget to add your own personal spice to it, with either alcohol or extra cinnamon. You decide!
How To Prepare:
- Stir 2 ½ pints of Apple Juice (or apple cider depending on your preference) and 1 cinnamon stick on high-heat for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a dash of pineapple juice.
- Add various spices such as nutmeg, cloves, and honey.
- Adjust to taste.
- Garnish with cinnamon, orange slices or lemon slices and serve hot.
These three fall recipes are easy to make and will help you avoid those awful drive-through lines! If you are looking for some desserts to accompany these drinks, stay tuned!
-Emily
