Written by: Nicole Majewski
Edited by: Astha Patel
Designed by: Alessa Zaitseva
Published by: Rayna Almas

Autumn is arguably the most atmospheric season, and it’s best appreciated through warm drinks that contrast its chilliness, ultimately bringing out all its poetic beauty. There truly is no time like it, and you only get a chance to celebrate it once a year. So without further ado, let’s take a look at some of Canadians’ most widely enjoyed autumn beverages.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

You can’t make a list of any autumn favourites without bringing up this classic. The Pumpkin Spice Latte, created in 2003, remains just as beloved today. It definitely lives up to the expectations set by its name, which includes autumn’s signature flavour. The sweet pumpkin essence is enhanced with spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, and complemented with a delicate splash of cream, making for a comforting taste that captures the ambience of this season.

Brown Sugar Pumpkin Spice Latte

While the original Pumpkin Spice Latte is often considered to be the “standard”, there are actually several variations to consider! So if the original PSL happens to be a bit too sweet for your taste, this spinoff is perfect for you. It shares many of the same ingredients, but replaces white sugar with brown sugar, supplementing it with a more subtle sweetness whilst still retaining the classic essence of the PSL.

Apple Cider

Though generally enjoyed year-round, this drink has become recognised as a particularly great choice for autumn. It’s gentle, nostalgic, and best of all–versatile! You can enjoy apple cider served hot or chilled. Hot apple cider tends to be spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, making it a soothing comfort for any crisp fall day. In comparison, cold apple cider is ideal for large fall gatherings, such as harvest festivals or Thanksgiving dinners.

Cranberry Juice

A simple yet vibrantly festive drink. Cranberry juice embodies the warmth of autumn with its bright hues and flavours. Since cranberries are in season in the fall, it’s also a great choice for anyone looking to support local farmers, and for those eager to brew their own homemade autumn refreshments!

Chai Latte

The Chai Latte is a dream come true for tea-loving autumn enthusiasts. Its delicate flavours serve as a surefire way to warm you up, no matter where you are. Combining black tea, milk, and aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cardamon, cloves, and ginger, this drink’s complex layers become more evident with every sip.

Maple Latte

You certainly can’t get more Canadian than maple flavours. The Maple Latte, made with espresso, steamed milk, and–of course–, a dash of maple syrup, offers a perfect balance of richness and bitterness. In theory, there’s no better way to sum up the autumn experience in Canada.

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

For those torn between the cosy charm of autumn and the heartwarming essence of winter, this drink offers a perfect blend of both seasons. Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate combines the creamy indulgence of North America’s beloved hot chocolate with the festive spice of pumpkin, topped with whipped cream. This drink effectively embraces the transition between the autumn and winter months to create a delicious embodiment of seasonal cheer.

Iced Vanilla Latte

Though not exclusive to the autumn months, an Iced Vanilla Latte can be easily transformed into a fall favourite with the addition of pumpkin pie spice and whipped cream. This results in a creamy refreshment that evokes the flavours of fall whilst retaining its cool sweetness, making it a strong choice among any autumn treats.

Candy Corn Punch

Whether it’s Halloween or not, Candy Corn Punch is a surefire way to appreciate the holiday and its season simultaneously. With its vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and white, it’s certainly as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it a great addition to any autumn-based festivities.

Pumpkin Smoothie

While not as well-known as other items on our list, the Pumpkin Smoothie is a healthy way to immerse yourself in all the flavours of autumn. Typically crafted with pumpkin, yoghurt, almond milk, and spices like nutmeg, this smoothie serves as a creamy, spiced treat. As with most smoothies, the possibilities are endless–you can add your own touches through any flavour modifications or additions you can think of. This allows you to create a tasty representation of what autumn means to you!

That concludes our rundown of the top 10 most well-known autumn beverages in Canada! However, keep in mind that there are countless other options out there–all of which are equally beautiful ways to enjoy the magic of fall.