5 Less-Basic Alternatives to the PSL

by Megan Stulberg

I have no patience for this pumpkin spiced latte craze anymore. It's been YEARS, you guys. If you post a photo of one, then I will unfollow you. If you're craving one, then keep that complaint to yourself. If they are what you've been looking forward to the most this season, then I highly suggest that you re-evaluate your priorities and probably your outlook on life, too.

Here are some ways to get the weird pumpkin craving out of your system, without succumbing to ordering that you-know-what at you-know-where:

- Eat a slice of pumpkin pie!

- Smell a pumpkin scented candle!

- Go to a freaking pumpkin patch!

- Inject pumpkin into your veins!

But on a more helpful note, here are five alternatives to your favourite seasonal beverage that'll knock your double-layered socks off. You're welcome in advance.

If you're insistent on getting that Starbucks kick: Give an espresso con panna (espresso shot with whipped cream), caramelized honey latte or even the seasonal chile mocha hot chocolate a chance instead. They're just as good as the PSL and deserve some love, too. You can always buy dried pumpkin powder in bulk and add it to your coffee at home. Just an FYI.

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Chai apple cider

Hot Apple Cider Chai is a comforting sip for fall and made a touch sweeter with @sweetnlowbrand. A splash of bourbon takes it over the top. Get the #recipe #ontheblog #donthesitaste #sponsored #cookinginstilettos A photo posted by Aly M. Cleary (@cookinginstilettos) on Sep 23, 2015 at 11:18am PDT

During a study break on a cold winter day years ago, I was in line at the campus coffee shop trying to decide whether I wanted an apple cider or chai tea. A classmate said Why not both? and things just haven’t been the same since. You can modify this combo by switching apple cider to white hot chocolate, or chai to another tea flavour such as mint.

TO MAKE: Boil apple cider, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, maple syrup and anise. Let simmer until fragrant, strain, then serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

TO ORDER: Literally ask your barista to put a chai tea bag in a cup of apple cider, then steep for 5 minutes. If your barista doesn’t understand these simple instructions, walk out and never step foot in said establishment again.

Illustration by Megan Stulberg