Seasonal sips: 7 Homemade fall wellness drinks

Fall hikes, cozy layers, porches piled with pumpkins, and warming soups simmering on the stove all signal that peak fall here in Ontario.

It’s also the perfect time to get creative with fall-inspired wellness drinks. These cozy beverages capture the season's essence and promote health, all while saving you money compared to your local coffee shop.

Here are some delightful options, each with unique health benefits.

1. Golden Turmeric Milk

Golden turmeric milk, often called "golden milk," is a comforting drink that combines the earthy flavour of turmeric with creamy milk (dairy or plant-based, your choice). The addition of spices such as cinnamon and ginger makes it even cozier. This drink is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the superfood turmeric, which contains curcumin—a game-changer for joint health and overall wellness. Simply warm up your milk and whisk in turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and a pinch of black pepper to enhance turmeric’s absorption. For a detailed recipe, we recommend this popular version online.

2. Chai Spiced Tea

Chai is a classic fall drink that brings warmth and spice with every satisfying sip. Made with black tea, milk, and a blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, chai is both comforting and invigorating. The spices in chai not only taste dreamy when combined but also offer some impressive health benefits, particularly improved digestion from cardamom. To make it at home, steep black tea with your choice of spices in hot water, add warmed milk, and sweeten it to your liking. For an irresistible recipe, take a look at this one that captures the essence of homemade chai.

3. Matcha Latte

If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, a matcha latte is the vibe. Matcha powder, made from finely ground green tea leaves, is packed with antioxidants and offers a gentle caffeine boost without the side order of jitters. Simply whisk matcha powder with a bit of hot water until smooth, then mix it with steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy). For an added layer of flavour, sprinkle some cinnamon on top. Check out this popular matcha latte recipe for step-by-step instructions for the perfect matcha latte every time.

4. Pumpkin Spiced Latte

You can’t celebrate fall without a delicious pumpkin spice latte! This drink combines brewed coffee with creamy milk and pumpkin purée, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Not only does it taste like autumn in a cup, but pumpkin is also rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immunity. Combine coffee with warm milk, pumpkin purée, and pumpkin spice mix to whip one up at home. For a foolproof recipe, check out this version with rave reviews. 

5. Rich Hot Chocolate

For a sweet sippable treat, nothing beats a rich hot chocolate. Combine cocoa powder, milk, and some raw sugar for a classic version, or go all out with dark chocolate for an indulgent twist. Dark chocolate is loaded with flavonoids that can help improve heart health, making this a deliciously comforting choice. Just heat your milk, stir in cocoa and chocolate, and enjoy. If you’re looking for a mouthwatering recipe, this hot chocolate has all the right flavours.

6. Hot Apple Cider

Hot apple cider is a fall favourite that’s perfect for sipping while cozying up under a blanket and your favourite TV series. The blend of warm apple cider with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange slices creates a fragrant drink that feels like a warm hug. Apples are high in fibre and vitamin C, supporting gut health and immunity. Just simmer apple cider with your favourite spices and citrus to make it. For a recipe you’ll return to, check out this one that’s simple, delicious and loved around the web.

7. Nutty Hazelnut Milk Latte

If you’re looking for something a little different, try a hazelnut milk latte. This drink is rich and flavourful and made by combining brewed coffee or espresso with creamy hazelnut milk and a splash of vanilla. Hazelnuts are packed with vitamin E and healthy fats, making this a nutritious choice. To whip up your own, brew your coffee, heat the hazelnut milk with a few drops of vanilla extract, stir, et voila. For a full recipe, this hazelnut latte recipe won’t disappoint.

About the Author

Alicia is a journalist and editor in digital and print media specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in Hone Health The Edge, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen, among others. In addition to being a content creator, she's an ISSA-certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and fitness studio owner in Toronto. Alicia loves spreading the word about helpful, science-backed health information, and she can be contacted via her website at aliciamtyler.com.