There’s no denying that fall is settling in upon us here in NYC. The season of sweater weather, changing leaves, and autumn-themed drinks. While the pumpkin spice latte may reign as the unofficial mascot of the season, there are certainly other options to get into the fall spirit even if you’re not all about that #PSL life.
Caramel Apple Spice
This seasonal Starbucks drink will bring remind you of sitting next to a fireplace on a crisp autumn evening. It consists of steamed, freshly pressed apple juice and cinnamon syrup. The tasty beverage is topped with sweetened whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel syrup.
Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte
Not quite ready to switch from iced coffee to hot? La Colombe offers their signature cold-pressed espresso blended with real pumpkin and warming spices for a clean take on the popular PSL. This brew is perfect for a smooth transition from summer to fall. Iced coffee with just the right amount of pumpkin flare.
Maple Pecan Latte
Ahead of leaves falling and weather cooling, Dunkin’ Donuts is serving up a taste of fall. It offers cozy notes of maple syrup, pecans, and brown butter, all of which complement the espresso flavors without completely overpowering it. A few sips and you’ll want to throw on your comfiest sweater and curl up with a good book and a fall-scented candle.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Sure peppermint might be more often associated with winter and the holidays, but this minty beverage puts the perfect spin on the creamy concoction that is hot chocolate. Many coffee shops including Dunkin’ Donuts offer a version. Made with chocolate sauce, peppermint-flavored syrup, steamed milk, and topped with whipped cream and peppermint flakes, you don’t need to wait until after Thanksgiving to enjoy a cup.
Caramel Marshmallow Latte
There are few things more Autumn than blazing bonfires, and this indulgent latte will transport you to toasting marshmallows under the harvest moon. This indulgent drink is the ideal fall treat; almost like a drinkable dessert. You can find it at Cafe Grumpy.
Hot Apple Cider
Some things are classics for a reason, and hot apple cider is one of them. Cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and orange slices create a timeless favorite that literally tastes of fall. Settle into your sofa with your fingers curled around a mug of something like this and you can’t help but be excited about the season. Check out Magnolia Bakery if you want to sip one of the best hot ciders in the city – it’s made from locally grown apples so you know it’s going to be the bomb.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
The iconic fall beverage that we love or love to hate is without a doubt synonymous with fall. Starbucks launched its famous Pumpkin Spice Latte 15 years ago, and it’s become the most popular seasonal item in Starbucks history! PSL has become more of a lifestyle than a drink. The demand for it does not seem to be changing anytime soon.
Dirty Chai Latte
For those who don’t know, a dirty chai is a chai latte with a shot of espresso. Lots of spices that whisper fall, a hint of sweetness, and comforting warmth in a cup. There’s also the bonus of a double dose of caffeine. In a nutshell, it’s the perfect drink for fall mornings! Cardamom and cloves combined with frothy milk and the kick of espresso will have you planning your apple picking getaway ASAP. Grab one at The Bean.
Regular coffee with Pumpkin Spice Syrup
If you enjoy pumpkin flavor but find the standard PSL too sweet or filling, consider this lighter alternative. A PSL-lite, if you will. A regular cup ‘o Joe from a reputable coffee shop like Gregory’s with a few pumps of pumpkin syrup is ideal for the coffee purist looking to add a dash of fall into their daily caffeine fix.
Salted Caramel Mocha
An understated yet insanely delicious alternative to the popular PSL, the salted caramel mocha is another option for fans of Starbucks’ seasonal menu. It features a blend of espresso, steamed milk, mocha, and toffee syrup. The drink is topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, turbinado (i.e. raw) sugar, and sea salt.
