Being a barista for many years I quickly learned that not everyone wants to try a pumpkin spice latte, even when the syrup is in-house and made with real pumpkin!
Although I was slightly offended, due to my dedication to that pumpkin spice recipe, we did find fun fall alternatives for people! Whether you're a coffee, tea, or noncaffeinated fun beverage drinker, most coffee shops will have a fun fall drink for you to order, even if you don't like pumpkin!
1. Maple Latte
Many people go for a maple latte. Most coffee shops offer this, and some even make them with real maple syrup! My coffee shop had a maple spice latte, which gave the fall feeling of a drink with a bit of spice but not all the pumpkin spice flavor! I'd think most coffee shops could recreate that just by adding a little cinnamon and nutmeg to their maple latte!
2. Butterscotch Latte
This became such a favorite at our coffee shop that we began carrying the butterscotch syrup year-round. It's perfect for someone who's just looking for a sweeter coffee drink without the spice. The buttery and caramel taste of this drink keeps people coming back for it again and again.
3. Peppermint Mocha
While this drink definitely has a Christmas feel to it, fall is the perfect time to start drinking it. The Christmas music seems to be coming earlier and earlier every year, the drinks might as well start earlier, too, right? This drink is a perfect combination of mint and chocolate, making it a coffee drink that is the perfect treat when you're already grabbing a coffee out!
4. London Fog
You can find this Earl Grey tea latte at coffee shops year-round, but the combination of bergamot, vanilla, and milk makes it seem like the perfect fall drink. Made with black tea, it's perfect to warm up midday or as a treat for the tea drinker who ventured into a coffee shop!
5. Spiced Cider
Most coffee shops keep a jug of apple cider in the fridge this time of year. Order a cup and they'll give you a warm apple cider with just a little extra spice. Perfect for the non-coffee drinkers who are invited to the coffee shop. I also love one when it's just a little chilly outside, but I've hit my caffeine limit for the day.
So, while pumpkin spice might be one of my favorite fall drinks, I understand it's not everyone's.
Sometimes it's hard to think of what a fall drink would include, but these warm fall drinks are a perfect combination of flavors that make it easier to feel festive for the season! Drink up!