3 Autumnal Alternatives To Your Pumpkin Spice Latte

The arrival of Autumn brings with it a seasonal favourite: the pumpkin spice latte. This drink has become a seasonal staple over the years and it is easy to see why.

The warming and flavourful pumpkin spice latte perfectly embodies that cosy autumn feeling. However, as this has become a go-to for people across the country, a lot of us are missing out on the full range of delicious flavours this season has to offer. While this beloved beverage has captured the hearts of many, there are plenty of other tasty and warming options to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a seasonal alternative to your usual pumpkin spice or you simply want to add a new drink to your repertoire… read on to discover three seasonal pumpkin spice latte alternatives to warm up your cosy autumnal mornings.


Apple cinnamon latte

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This autumn fruit is a staple of many dishes enjoyed throughout the season, from comforting apple crumble to the Halloween classic, toffee apples. When paired with cinnamon, the warming and earthy notes of the spice perfectly complement the crisp sweetness of the apple. And what better way to enjoy the two flavours this autumn than in latte form in your favourite mug?

To make one serving of apple cinnamon latte, you need:

  • 1 tbsp apple syrup

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • 250ml milk of your choice

  • 2 espresso shots

  • Whipped cream (optional)

  • Caramel sauce (optional)

To whip up this delicious autumnal treat, start by adding a tablespoon of apple syrup to your mug and prepare your espresso shots. Next, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to your milk and warm it up until it is hot, but not boiling. To put it all together, pour your milk in your mug on top of the apple syrup and then pour the espresso shots on top, give the beverage a mix, and enjoy! If you’re looking for a more decadent treat, you can top the drink with whipped cream and salted caramel sauce.


Golden milk latte

Turmeric and warm milk is a staple drink in India, and over the years turmeric lattes have become increasingly popular across the globe. When paired with other spices and sweet flavourings like in this recipe, the beverage has a warming and earthy taste with a hint of spice, making it perfect for the chilly autumn months. As well as being a cosy drink to help you warm up, the vivid colour of a golden milk latte is sure to brighten up a rainy autumn day.

You’ll need the following ingredients to make your own mug of golden milk latte:

  • 250ml milk of your choice

  • 1 tsp ground turmeric

  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp ground ginger

  • 1 tsp honey

  • A pinch of black pepper

  • A pinch of ground nutmeg

  • A pinch of ground cloves (optional, for extra spice)

To make your golden milk latte, start by gradually warming your milk in a small pan. As the drink is warming, add all of the spices and whisk well. Continue to stir until the drink is heated to your liking, and then take it off the heat and add your teaspoon of honey. Finish up by using a fine-mesh strainer to strain the latte into your mug to ensure a smooth and silky texture.

If you’d like to sweeten the drink a little more, you can add half a teaspoon of vanilla extract. You can also add a shot of espresso if you’re looking for a drink with a coffee hit, although a golden milk latte can make a great caffeine-free alternative to your usual pumpkin spice latte.


Dirty vanilla chai latte

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Chai lattes are another popular drink enjoyed at this time of year. Comprising classic seasonal spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, this autumnal beverage has a sweet flavour with a very light spicy kick, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. If you’re looking for a caffeinated substitute  to your pumpkin spice latte, this vanilla chai is sure to be a great alternative. With a couple of shots of espresso and a hint of vanilla to balance the added bitterness from the coffee, this is a sweet and warming drink ideal for bringing with you on a crisp seasonal walk.

Gather the following ingredients to make a mug of dirty vanilla chai latte:

  • 250ml milk of your choice

  • 2 espresso shots

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp ginger

  • ¼ tsp cardamon

  • A pinch of ground cloves

  • A pinch of nutmeg

  • Cinnamon stick (optional)

  • Cinnamon dusting (optional)

By Zoe Turner, Head of Brand Development and Marcomms at Denby