Fall is the perfect time to cozy up inside with a warm drink and treat. The cool, crisp air calls for spices, warmth, and comfort. Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin are fall flavors that evoke nostalgia and the feeling of home. Here are some delicious spiced drinks and desserts to celebrate the autumn season.
The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves simmering on the stove brings back memories of holidays past. Spiced cider, a classic fall drink, only requires a few simple ingredients: apple cider, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and orange slices. Simmer the spices in the cider until it reaches your desired flavor and warmth. Strain out the whole spices if desired. Spiced cider also makes a great base for an alcoholic fall cocktail when combined with rum or bourbon.
Pumpkin spice lattes have become a fall staple, and for good reason. Espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla come together for a cozy hand-warmer. Top it off with whipped cream and nutmeg or cinnamon for an Instagram-worthy creation. The pumpkin puree provides body and a creamy orange hue without an overpowering pumpkin flavor. It strikes the perfect balance of fall spices that even pumpkin spice latte naysayers will enjoy.
Speaking of pumpkin, fall desserts would not be complete without pumpkin pie or cheesecake. Pumpkin puree, eggs, evaporated milk, sugar, and of course spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, are all you need for a classic pumpkin pie. Pumpkin cheesecake swaps in a creamy cheesecake base for a lighter, tangy take on the traditional pie. Top either with whipped cream, caramel, or bourbon whipped cream for extra decadence.
Nothing says fall like warm apple desserts fresh out of the oven. Apple crisps, crumbles, and cobblers topped with oats, nuts, and spices are simple to make and smell heavenly while baking. Baked apples are another easy option—simply core apples, fill them with a mixture of sugar, butter, and fall spices, and bake until tender. Serve them with ice cream, whipped cream, or on their own.
On a chilly fall evening, sometimes only a mug of rich hot chocolate will do. Stir in chili powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice for an extra special spiced hot chocolate. Top it with whipped cream and crushed nuts or toasted marshmallows. Whether you crave spices, pumpkin, apples or chocolate, fall has no shortage of warm, comforting drinks and desserts to enjoy all season long. Stay cozy!