As the fall season approaches, the cooler weather makes your body crave warm, comforting foods. I’m no doctor, but we crave warm food during this time of year, probably because we need extra calories to keep ourselves warm. Instinctively, your body seeks to regulate and maintain warmth by eating more warm foods. Consuming warm foods can help raise your body temperature, making you feel more comfortable in cooler weather.

Fall is also associated with cozy, comfort, and warmth. A time when we are cozy up near the fire with family and friends with a cup of warm drink. I am physically comforted when I drink hot beverages and psychologically evoke the feeling of security and well-being. 

Fall vegetables and fruits are also abundantly available, making it easier to have homemade comfort foods at home. Fall food is also more nutrient-dense, which helps the body survive the harsher weather.

Warm foods also have more sensory appeal because of the palate’s rich aroma and robust flavor.

My favorite is pumpkin; this fruit is so hardy and abundant in the fall that you can make anything from soup to dessert to latte.  

I know during this time of year, Starbucks always has their Pumpkin Spice Latte; being gluten-free and vegan, my mom often makes this drink at home because she can’t always get it. We experimented and found a recipe that tasted even better and healthier than the Starbucks version. Give it a try, and experiment and find your own recipe.

Vegan and Gluten-free Pumpkin Spice Latte 

INGREDIENTS

• 1.5 cups of creamy dairy-free milk like coconut or Macadamian
• 2/4 cup strong brewed coffee or coffee alternative (like dandelion root)
• 3.5 tablespoons organic pumpkin puree
• 2.5 tablespoons pure maple syrup or dark, raw honey or monk fruits(sugar-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sprinkle of sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS 

• Suggestions: Creamier milk will give this latte a richer and more satisfying taste, as less creamy milk will make the spices not dissolve. Also, the strong coffee will make it more like a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte. 
• Place all ingredients in a blender in the order listed and blend until very frothy.
• Then, Add the liquid to a small pot over low heat. Once it comes to a gentle simmer, cook for 2 minutes, whisking it continuously until steamy. Don’t overcook it.  
• Divide into 2 mugs and serve with a sprinkling of pumpkin spice and vegan whipped cream. 

Enjoy experimenting!

Bella H.