5 autumn coffee serves
Expert barista Celeste Wong brings you a selection of cosy coffee ideas to embrace the autumn season, from campfire coffee to a clever British twist on the pumpkin spice latte
Read our autumn coffee guide from coffee expert Celeste Wong below, then check out Celeste's tried-and-tested list of the best coffee beans and coffee serves from around the world. Looking for the perfect present for the coffee lover in your life? Take a look at our best coffee gifts.
Autumn always feels like a gentle invitation to slow down and savour the shift in seasons. As the colours of nature deepen into warm hues (along with my wardrobe), my coffee creations tend to follow suit, filled with the rich flavours that autumn inspires. For me, this time of year turns coffee drinking at home into a more mindful ritual – filled with comforting spices that give a touch of indulgence on the senses, like cardamom, orange zest or even marshmallow!
This autumn feels extra special, as I’m celebrating the release of my first book, Coffee Creations (£18.99, Octopus Books), filled with 90 recipes to elevate your coffee moments. One of my seasonal favourites is the tiramisu latte – perfect for cozy evenings after dinner (and I could even use a quality decaf in this one, check out my decaf recommendations here). If I’m lucky enough to be near a fireplace, my go-to is “s’mores please!” from my ‘nights’ chapter, which brings the campfire coffee indoors. And for a playful twist, I can’t resist the cinnamon toast crunch coffee, with nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, straight from my ‘unicorn’ chapter – ideal for those who like something a little fun and different with their autumn flavours.
5 autumn coffee ideas
Spiced apple dirty chai latte
Pumpkin step aside, here’s my new autumnal take on the PSL (pumpkin spiced latte) – a spiced apple dirty chai latte. It might be a mouthful to say, but it’s a delicious one, I promise. Apple is becoming the hot favourite this autumn with cafés introducing the new flavour into their coffee serves. Try this one at home and enjoy the lighter, slightly sweeter variation on the classic autumnal seasonal serve. Use a pre-made chai mix or chai syrup. You can steep chai in hot water to make a strong concentrate. For the apple purée, make your own using canned apples or even organic apple baby purée – just ensure it is blended well into a purée, similar to the pumpkin spice latte.
Pumpkin spice latte
Here's my step-by-step guide to making the perfect version of this comforting, autumnal coffee. Pumpkin spice latte is definitely a popular October and November drink. You can either buy a flavoured pumpkin spice syrup at your supermarket or there are plenty online. But also, you can use a simple syrup or vanilla syrup too. If you want to make your own vanilla syrup, I've got a quick and easy recipe and method.
Cinnamon toast crunch coffee
There are many different variations of this drink, so feel free to get your creative hat on and add your own touch. The cereal most popularly used in this drink is Cinnamon Toast Crunch, but you can use any cereal you like. However, make sure it has a distinct flavour such as cinnamon or chocolate otherwise it won’t really enhance the overall taste of the drink. I’ve seen this drink made hot or cold. This is my hot version, but if you feel like trying it cold for breakfast, just follow the same recipe but use cold coffee instead and add ice.
French press coffee
The French press is effortless and perfect for making more than one cup, inviting you to slow down and savour the ritual. As the coffee brews, you can snuggle into the couch with a cosy blanket, a good book, or with loved ones. When it's ready, each pour brings a little more comfort to the moment, adding that sweet coffee aroma to the autumn air.
S'mores coffee
Autumnal nights conjure thoughts of sitting by a cosy fire (much more appealing than setting up a tent) or your favourite candles. Who can resist a perfectly toasted marshmallow and what could be more luxurious than having one with a beautiful cup of coffee? The perfect luxe pairing. All you need are a few simple tools. Grab a kitchen blow torch or just use the gas flame on your stove top. But remember, play it safe. Don’t let those marshmallows catch fire and always be cautious around open flames. Use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own. Let the indoor camping (and caffeinated s’mores) adventures begin!
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