It’s that time of year again. Autumn. The weather’s cooler, the leaves are browner and Waitrose is stocking the shelves with hot chocolate. That part of the aisle that many people may try to avoid or slowly walk past just to ‘browse’… and then end up with three tubs of delicious chocolate powder in their basket. It’s a curse. But what are the alternatives? That’s where we come in. We have collated a myriad of delicious, warm drinks that will not only hit that warm comforting spot, but are perfect for the autumn season. And if you didn’t think it could get better… they’re all vegan and gluten free!
(For all these recipes, all you need to do is heat the milk up on a stove and add the ingredients, mixing it all into one beautiful concoction).
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte.
The halloween themed drink and Starbuck’s favourite we’ve all been waiting for… the pumpkin spiced latte. Except you won’t have to pay a fiver for a grande and get your name spelled wrong.
What you will need:
- 3/4 cup soy milk (or your preferred milk)
- 3 tbsps of pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp pure agave syrup
- 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 shot of espresso
2. Turmeric Latte.
This is the ultimate healthy autumn drink, with the health benefits of turmeric paired with some delicious agave, this one’s a winner. Did you know, turmeric improves heart health and prevents against Alzheimer’s and cancer?
What you will need:
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp grated fresh turmeric
- 2 tsp agave syrup
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- Pinch ground pepper
- Pinch ground cinnamon (for garnish)
3. Bourbon hot chocolate.
I know what you’re thinking. How on earth did bourbon and chocolate slip into the healthy drinks list? Well, bourbon and cocoa actually have some great health benefits (in moderation, of course). A splash of bourbon can reduce stress, control diabetes and even prevent the risk of heart disease. As for cocoa, the powder is rich in theobromine, which helps reduce inflammation. So, drink up!
What you will need:
- 1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate pieces
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 cups almond milk
- 2 tbsp agave syrup
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 pink ground cinnamon
(For this one, you want to melt the chocolate in with the cocoa powder and then add the rest!)