Fall has begun, and so has pumpkin spice season. Pumpkin Spice Lattes are a great way to treat yourself in the coming months, however, you don't always want the caffeine to go along with it. As a barista, I am often asked about the amount of caffeine in our beverages as well as what recommendations on kid-friendly drinks. Baristas also often make up creations that the public doesn't know about, and I decided to share some ways to upgrade your drink.
1. Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte
Pumpkin Chai Latte
GiphyCoffee is only one way to get the morning does of caffeine and chai being another way. For those who enjoy chai, but not the intensity of the spicy flavor, adding pumpkin sauce is one way of bringing some sweetness to the drink. The sweetness of the pumpkin sauce cuts the intensity of the chai.
Barista's Tip: As of recently I've been making my chai tea lattes with no water and almond milk. Milk helps with balancing out the spiciness of the chai and the sweetness of the pumpkin.
if you don't like too much sweetness, I also recommend reducing the number of chai and pumpkin spice pumps. Both flavors are strong enough to shine through on their own, so you really don't need the full amount
2. Caramel Apple Spice
Apple Cider
Everyone loves a good cup of apple cider in the fall and, Starbuck's Caramel Apple Spice does not disappoint. This is probably one of, if not my favorite fall drink. The best way to describe it is apple pie in a cup. Yes, this fall delight tastes exactly like the inside of an apple pie. Steamed apple juice and Cinnamon Dolce Syrup is topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
For me, Caramel Apple Spice is my go-to drink during the holiday season. Every time I take a sip I feel warm, fuzzy and all it makes me want to do is curl up in front of the fire and enjoy my drink.
Barista Tip: If you don't mind sparing the extra 60 cents, top this treat with either Autumn Sprinkles (from the Maple Pecan Latte), Cinnamon powder or Caramel Brulee topping (from the Caramel Brulee Latte). The sprinkles and topping add a crunchy texture, while the powder gives the drink more of a cinnamon taste.
3. Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate
Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate
Alex Leff
If you're looking for a little something extra sweet this fall, look no further, the Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate is for you. Made with Starbucks' White Mocha and Pumpkin Spice sauce, this treat is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Barista Tip: Instead of adding the normal Pumpkin Spice Topping, add some autumn sprinkles instead. By making this substitution, your drink will have a crunchy texture as well as an additional sweetness. This drink also pairs well with Starbucks' Pumpkin Scone.
4. Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate
GiphyWith the fall season underway, the Salted Caramel Mocha made its return, as well as it's non-caffeinated companion, Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate.
Made with Mocha sauce, Toffee Nut syrup, and steamed milk, the drink really gets its saltiness from the special sea salt topping. This drink has the best combination of sweet and salty in every sip.
This is the perfect alternative for children who want a twist on the classic drink.
Barista Tip: Ask for a splash of heavy cream when steaming the milk. It'll give your drink a creamier and smoother taste. If you don't have a big sweet tooth, you can ask for fewer pumps of mocha and toffee nut syrup.
5. Honey Citrus Mint Tea
Tea
GiphyWhile technically this isn't a drink strictly for the fall season, this beverage will help when you're not feeling your best this holiday season. The combination of Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility Tea, steamed lemonade and honey will help soothe your throat.
When I feel like I'm about to come down with, or if I already have a cold, this is the only thing I want. The honey immediately helps my throat in addition to the combination of the peach and mint tea.
Barista Tip: If you're looking for a little extra flavor, I recommend adding peppermint syrup. While this sounds disgusting, peppermint is another source to help your body fight a cold. I generally add two pumps in a grande (one in a tall and three in a venti). The peppermint helps clear my sinuses. Even if there isn't much every little bit helps. If peppermint isn't your thing, then I recommend adding a couple pumps of raspberry syrup.