Pumpkin Spice & Beyond: Trending fall drinks to try besides the classic latte

As the leaves turn and the air takes on that unmistakable autumn chill, the arrival of fall drinks feels like a warm hug in a cup. While the pumpkin spice latte remains the undisputed champion of fall beverages, 2025’s seasonal drink scene is expanding beyond this beloved classic.

From cozy teas to innovative cocktails and creamy non-coffee options, there’s a fall drink for every palate waiting to be discovered.

If you’re ready to venture beyond pumpkin spice lattes this season, here’s a curated list of trending fall drinks that capture the essence of autumn — with flavors that surprise and delight.

1. Maple Chai Latte

The rich, warming spices of traditional chai—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves—pair beautifully with the deep sweetness of pure maple syrup in this fall favorite. The maple chai latte offers a nuanced sweetness that’s less sharp than pumpkin spice but equally comforting.

Ideal for those who crave spice without the overt pumpkin flavor, this latte works well with both dairy and plant-based milks like oat or almond. Many coffee shops are adding maple chai to their seasonal menus, often topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra autumnal touch.

2. Apple Cider Mule

Taking inspiration from the classic Moscow Mule, the apple cider mule swaps out ginger beer for fresh apple cider, combining it with vodka and a splash of lime juice. Served over ice with a garnish of cinnamon sticks or apple slices, this cocktail offers a refreshing yet spicy way to enjoy fall flavors.

It’s perfect for those who want a crisp, tangy drink with a kick, making it a popular choice at fall gatherings and outdoor events. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka and add sparkling water for a festive mocktail.

3. Brown Butter Bourbon Latte

For coffee and cocktail lovers alike, the brown butter bourbon latte is a decadent fall treat. Brown butter—created by gently cooking butter until it develops a nutty, caramelized flavor—is added to espresso and steamed milk, then finished with a shot of bourbon.

This drink’s complex flavor profile blends creamy, toasty, and boozy notes, making it a standout choice for chilly evenings or cozy brunches. Many upscale cafes and bars are now featuring this indulgent latte as a limited-time seasonal special.

4. Spiced Pear and Ginger Tea

Moving away from coffee, spiced pear and ginger tea offers a fragrant and soothing option for fall. The sweetness of ripe pears blends harmoniously with the zing of fresh ginger, complemented by hints of cinnamon and cloves.

Available as both hot and iced tea, this drink is celebrated for its warming yet light qualities, perfect for those looking to reduce caffeine intake or enjoy a refreshing herbal option. Local tea shops are increasingly featuring spiced pear blends this season, often paired with honey or lemon.

5. Sweet Potato Horchata

Horchata, a traditional Mexican beverage made from rice, milk, cinnamon, and sugar, gets a fall makeover with the addition of sweet potato puree. This creamy, subtly spiced drink balances earthy sweetness with cinnamon and vanilla undertones.

Sweet potato horchata is gaining traction in cafés focused on seasonal and culturally inspired beverages. It’s a delicious alternative for anyone craving a dairy-free, naturally sweet fall drink that’s rich in flavor but gentle on the palate.

Why Explore Beyond Pumpkin Spice?

The pumpkin spice latte has become synonymous with fall, but expanding your fall drink repertoire can uncover new favorite flavors and support local baristas and artisans experimenting with seasonal ingredients. Whether you prefer coffee, tea, cocktails, or mocktails, the current fall drink trends invite creativity, cultural inspiration, and a deeper appreciation of autumn’s bounty.

Trying new drinks also offers opportunities to explore diverse ingredients—like sweet potatoes, pears, and maple syrup—that add complexity and regional flair. It’s a way to celebrate fall not just through taste, but through stories and traditions behind the ingredients.

How to Enjoy These Drinks at Home or Out

• At Home: Many of these drinks can be made with simple ingredients and a bit of kitchen creativity. Maple syrup, fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, and bourbon or sparkling water are great pantry staples to have on hand.

• At Local Cafés: Support your local coffee shops and tea houses by exploring their seasonal menus—many places now craft their own versions of these trending drinks.

• Experiment: Don’t hesitate to customize drinks to your taste, whether that means swapping milk alternatives, adjusting sweetness, or adding a dash of your favorite spice.

  
  

Fall 2025’s drink trends show that while pumpkin spice lattes remain a beloved classic, there’s a rich world of autumnal flavors waiting to be explored. From the nutty warmth of brown butter bourbon to the crisp brightness of cranberry rosemary spritz, these drinks offer something for every mood and moment.

So this season, whether you’re cozying up with a book, entertaining friends, or enjoying a brisk walk, reach for a fall drink that goes beyond the ordinary and lets you savor the season’s diverse and delicious spirit.