Pumpkin spice and everything nice? More like Pumpkin spice, 50g of sugar, High Fructose Corn Syrup, GMOs, carrageenan, and caramel coloring. That's what you'll find in a traditional Pumpkin Spice Latte. The cool fall weather and hot, delicious drinks go hand in hand, but traditional hot drinks are LOADED with sugar, and other ingredients that are absolutely disastrous for our health. Ok in moderation, but not in the amounts that most people consume them. You don't have to forego your fall drinks, you can make smarter subs my making homemade, healthy versions of your favorite fall drinks that are a million times healthier than their traditional counterparts, and even provide health benefits! Save the money, save the empty calories, save your health and get your fix by making your fall drinks at home. It might take a few extra minutes, but you will be much happier with your decision.
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte
This healthy PSL leaves its traditional version in the dust, made with real pumpkin, flavors from real seasonal spices, and sweetened with stevia instead of sugar and high fructose corn syrup.
- 1 cup brewed coffee or 1-2 shots of espresso
- 3 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1/2 - 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (depending how "spicy" you want it)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or cashew milk, or 1/4 cup full fat coconut milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- stevia to taste
In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together the milk and pumpkin until warm and blended. Stir in your spices, vanilla, and sweetener and then blend in a blender until foamy. Pour your coffee into a large mug and then pour the pumpkin spice milk mixture over the coffee. Enjoy!
2. Chai Tea Latte
Commonly referred to as "autumn in a cup", how can you do without at least one of these in the fall?
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 chai tea bag
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or cashew milk (or 1/4 cup full fat coconut milk)
- stevia to taste
Place chai tea bag into boiling water in a large mug and steep for 4-5 minutes. Combine milk, vanilla, and stevia in a small saucepan over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil. Whisk vigorously until foamy, about 30 seconds.
Remove the teabag from the mug and pour milk mixture over the tea. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
3. Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is one of the most comforting and nostalgic warm drinks for the colder weather. It can be very indulgent but it doesn't have to be! You can make this lightened up version that is just as satisfying and warming.
- 1 cup unsweetened cashew milk
- 1 heaping tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- dash of salt
- stevia to taste
Place milk in a microwave safe mug and microwave for 1 minute. Add in cocoa powder, dash of salt, and vanilla extract. Stir lightly and place mug back in the microwave for about another minute. Now stir the mixture vigorously until the cocoa powder is free of clumps and well blended. Add stevia to taste and enjoy!
4. Cinnamon Vanilla Latte
A classic warming latte, without all the sugar! Made with almond or cashew milk, it's even lighter!
- 1 cup brewed coffee or 1-2 shots of espresso
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or cashew milk, or 1/4 cup full fat coconut milk
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- stevia to taste
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, whisking well until heated and foaming. Pour your coffee into a large mug and then pour the pumpkin spice milk mixture over the coffee. Add stevia to taste. Enjoy!
5. Protein Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino
Want a drink thats a little more filling for the mid-day slump? Try this pumpkin spice protein shake that's reminiscent of a frappuccino, packed with protein AND caffeine. This will keep you going for the rest of the afternoon without the dreaded crash!
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or cashew milk
- 3 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee or 1-2 shots of espresso
- 1 scoop NM Vanilla Protein Powder
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 - 1 cup of ice
Blend all ingredients & enjoy!