Fall Drink Ideas
There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug or sipping a chilled Fall-themed drink while curled up under a blanket. Whether you’re hosting a harvest party, enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, or making memories with your kids in the kitchen, Fall drinks have a magical way of making everything feel a little cozier.
I have put together some of my family’s favorite Fall drinks, from classic warm favorites like apple cider and pumpkin spice lattes to fun non-alcoholic options for kids and cozy cocktails for the grownups. So grab your favorite mug and choose one to try.
Classic Fall Favorites
Hot Apple Cider
Nothing says fall like the smell of hot apple cider simmering on the stove. It’s simple, fragrant, and so tasty. You can make it from scratch or dress up a store-bought version with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and cloves.
Homemade Apple Cider Recipe:
- 10-12 apples (a mix of sweet and tart)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 8 cups water
Instructions:
Chop the apples (no need to peel), place everything in a large pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours. Mash the apples and strain out solids. Add sweetener if desired and serve warm.
Tip: Add a splash of caramel syrup or a cinnamon sugar rim for a fancy touch!
Pumpkin Spice Latte (Homemade Version!)
Sure, you can hit up your local coffee shop, but making one at home means no long lines, and you can control the sweetness. Plus, the kids can have their own caffeine-free “pumpkin steamers!”
DIY Pumpkin Spice Latte:
- 2 cups milk (any kind)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup strong coffee or espresso
Whisk everything but the coffee in a saucepan until hot and frothy. Pour over the coffee, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice.
S’mores Latte
The perfect balance of all the s’mores flavors of chocolate and marshmallow but in a mug!
Get the S’mores Latte recipe
Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Now we typically associate warm drinks with Fall, but give this iced drink a try. The warm cinnamon flavor is perfect for Fall and the creamy and sweet taste will have you wanting more.
Get the recipe for Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Fun Fall Drinks for Kids
Fall is a magical time for children, jumping in piles of leaves, carving pumpkins, and yes, sipping fun seasonal drinks with whipped cream and sprinkles.
Caramel Apple Milkshake
This chilly treat tastes like fall in a glass and makes a great dessert drink.
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
- Whipped cream + crushed graham crackers for topping
Blend it all up, top with whipped cream, and enjoy with a straw (or spoon!).
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Want something healthier? This smoothie tastes like pumpkin pie, but it’s made with nutritious ingredients.
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- A handful of ice
Blend and serve! Add a dollop of yogurt on top for a treat that feels decadent but is totally kid-approved.
Hot Chocolate with a Fall Twist
Instead of regular hot cocoa, try:
- Salted caramel hot chocolate
- White chocolate pumpkin hot chocolate
- Maple cinnamon hot cocoa
You can add mini marshmallows, drizzle with caramel or chocolate syrup, or serve in festive mugs. Bonus: Let kids decorate their own mugs with oil-based paint pens for a fun fall craft!
Cozy Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Options
Hosting a party? These mocktails are great for all ages, and they look just as festive as the grown-up versions.
Apple Cider Fizz
- Sparkling water or ginger ale
- Apple cider
- Sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Combine half cider and half sparkling water over ice, stir, and serve with a fancy straw.
Cranberry Apple Punch
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 2 cups apple juice
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Sliced oranges and fresh cranberries
Chill and serve in a punch bowl with floating fruit, it’s as pretty as it is tasty!
Maple Pear Sparkler
- Pear juice
- A splash of maple syrup
- Club soda
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish
This one’s lightly sweet with an elegant vibe, great for baby showers, fall birthdays, or Thanksgiving dinner.
Fall Cocktails for Grown-Ups
Fall is also the season of rich, comforting flavors like bourbon, cinnamon, apple, and maple. These drinks are perfect for winding down on a chilly evening or celebrating with friends around the fire pit.
Spiked Apple Cider
Just take your classic hot apple cider and add:
- Bourbon
- Spiced rum
- Or even Fireball cinnamon whiskey
Serve warm in mugs with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple floating on top.
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz maple syrup
- A dash of bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
Stir with ice and serve in a short glass, it’s smooth, rich, and just a little fancy.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz pumpkin spice creamer
Shake with ice and pour into a short glass. It’s creamy, seasonal, and totally indulgent.
Apple Pie Sangria
Perfect for fall parties, this drink combines the flavors of apple pie and a crisp white wine.
- 1 bottle white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup brandy
- Sliced apples, pears, and cinnamon sticks
Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours before serving over ice.
Creative Twists and New Ideas
Looking for something a little different? Here are a few more unique fall drinks to try.
Sweet Potato Latte
It’s like a pumpkin spice latte’s underrated cousin! Swap pumpkin purée for mashed sweet potato, add cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of brown sugar. Blend with milk and coffee for a new cozy favorite.
Mulled White Grape Juice
If you’re not into apple cider, try mulling white grape juice with cinnamon, orange peel, and star anise. It’s elegant, unique, and delicious warm or chilled.
Roasted Marshmallow Coffee
Brew strong coffee and add a roasted marshmallow on top instead of sugar. It melts in slowly, giving your cup a toasty twist, especially good with a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Tips for Serving Fall Drinks
- Use seasonal garnishes: Think cinnamon sticks, apple slices, star anise, rosemary sprigs, or nutmeg dusting.
- Create a fall drink station: Perfect for parties! Set up a hot drink bar with toppings, syrups, and mugs. You can even add labels like “Witch’s Brew” or “Cozy Cocoa.”
- Use a slow cooker: For keeping drinks warm and letting flavors blend. It’s great for hot cider or mulled wine.
- Try mason jars or copper mugs: They’re cute and photogenic, perfect for parties, brunches, or your next Instagram post.
Fall drinks are an easy way to start a family tradition. That first hot cider of the season often signals the beginning of something cozy, a slower pace, and moments spent together. Whether you’re watching football, carving pumpkins, baking with your kids, or catching up with friends, having the right drink in hand makes everything feel a little more special.
