Pumpkin spice has certainly taken over in the recent years—from pumpkin spice coffee to pumpkin spice…well, everything!

But what is pumpkin spice? It’s a looming shadow that pops its head around the corner every fall—specifically, though, it’s a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and allspice.

These spices create a warm flavour and—if you’ve ever had a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte—it can be incredibly sweet.

So, come along on a journey as we explore fall flavours that aren’t pumpkin spice for you to enjoy this season.

Classic apple

This year, Tim Hortons introduced its Apple Pie Dream Donut, while Starbucks brought out an Apple Crisp Macchiato. Apples are super versatile—and did you know the apple picking season in Ontario ranges from August to October?

Classic apple pies are usually made with cinnamon and nutmeg—but you could go for a variation like a Dutch apple pie. And don’t forget the apple cider on the side!

Maple

Anyone with a sweet tooth will love this fall flavour.

Think about drizzling maple syrup over banana walnut pancakes and maple-and-brown-sugar oatmeal in the morning. Drool.

Maple also has some edge—the internet loves to debate which is the better fall flavour: maple or pumpkin spice?

Horchata

Horchata de arroz is a popular drink from Mexico and Guatemala. Traditionally, it’s made of rice, evaporated milk, condensed milk, cinnamon and vanilla. But there are also recipes that stick to rice and almond milk, which are great dairy-free alternatives that won’t make you choose between a delicious drink or a happy tummy (Although, we if had to choose, horchata is worth it!)

There are many variations of horchata and, while often served cold, hot horchata is perfect for fall—its smooth, rich flavour is perfect for the colder weather.

Plus, check out baked goods like horchata cupcakes with cinnamon butter cream!

Ginger

You’re probably thinking we’ve jumped ahead to winter but, while the holidays have gingerbread, fall has gingersnaps.

Maejakgwa is a traditional Korean ginger cookie that is served on special occasions and holidays—it really channels coziness and comfort. These pretty ribbon cookies are made with ginger juice and cinnamon (but that’s optional), coated in honey and topped with chopped pine nuts.

Also, shout out to all the nutty fall flavours, like pecan and walnuts too!

Plus, there’s also ginger tea, which offers a distinct spicy aroma. Not to mention that ginger and garlic are great in hearty soups.

Spicy cinnamon

If you’re loyal to pumpkin spice, you’ll be happy to know it has a lot of cinnamon! But the spice is also delicious when combined with many other fall flavours—especially baked goods like coffee cake and blueberry cobbler.

We suggest cinnamon challah with honey, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds! Or, how about fluffy challah french toast with cinnamon and maple syrup for those days when you want to wrap up in a sweater blanket (move aside frozen waffles)!

We certainly can’t wait to try out all these fall flavours and recipes! If you give them a go, show us your creations by tagging @shareignite on Instagram and Twitter.

Throw yourself into the season with 5 comfort items to make this fall your most perfect yet.

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