Top 10 Autumn Drinks for Better Immunity and Health
As the cool breeze of autumn sets in and nature puts on its vibrant display, it’s time to enjoy the comforting flavors of the season. Autumn brings not only delicious flavors but also unique health benefits through seasonal beverages. This is the perfect time to explore autumn drinks that warm our souls and also offer numerous health advantages.
In this blog, we’ll explore the 10 seasonal fall drinks and fall cocktails to try and how they benefit our health. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, these drinks can elevate your mood and add warmth to your autumn days, while supporting wellness.
10 best fall beverages to try
Here are some of the best drinks to try this season:
1. Pumpkin spice latte
You know fall is here when pumpkin spice lattes start appearing everywhere, from cafes to grocery stores. This delicious beverage combines rich espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin puree, and a blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Health Benefits: Beyond its cozy taste, pumpkin spice latte offers multiple health benefits, especially for immune support. Pumpkin is high in vitamins A and C, both essential for a strong immune system. Cinnamon, a key spice in this latte, has properties that may help reduce cholesterol levels and combat inflammation.
Tip: Making this latte at home can control sugar levels and avoid preservatives
Nutritional value of pumpkin spice latte: A typical 240ml serving made with 2% milk and whipped cream contains approximately:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 380 kcal |
Proteins | 10g |
Fat | 14g |
Carbohydrates | 54g |
2. Masala chai (Masala tea)
Masala chai is a favourite in India due to its comforting taste and aroma. It combines ingredients like cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Health Benefits: Masala tea, or masala chai, is packed with health benefits. Ginger and clove reduce inflammation, while cinnamon and clove work together to boost immunity. The blend aids digestion, especially with spices like elaichi and ginger, which soothe the stomach.
Masala chai also has rich antioxidant properties, which support heart health and keep cholesterol levels in check. The caffeine content can give you a great kickstart for your day.
Note: Masala chai can be a morning choice to kickstart energy levels naturally with caffeine and antioxidant-rich spices.
Nutritional value of masala chai: The nutritional value of masala chai can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation method, but here’s a general idea for a typical 150 ml serving made with black tea, milk, and spices.
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 70-100 kcal |
Proteins | 2-4 g |
Fat | 2-5 g |
Carbohydrates | 10-15 g |
Calcium | 80-100 mg (from milk) |
3. Apple cider drink
Nothing says fall quite like a warm mug of apple cider drink. People often confuse apple cider drink with apple juice, but they’re not the same. Both come from juiced apples, but the processes differ. Apple cider drink retains some pulp and contains more vitamins and minerals.
Health Benefits: Apple cider drink is packed with polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It can also help with constipation thanks to its pectin content, promoting regularity and better digestion.
Although it has fewer polyphenols than whole apples, it still offers health benefits, making it the best fall drink. Overall, drinking apple cider may lower the risk of certain cancers, including colon, prostate, and breast cancer.
Advice: Diluting apple cider with water can enhance hydration while reducing excess sugar intake.
Nutritional value of Apple cider drink: A 150 ml serving of apple cider approximately contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 75 kcal |
Vitamin C | 2-3% of the daily value (DV) |
Potassium | 2-3% of the daily value (DV) |
Carbohydrates | 22g |
4. Hot chocolate
As the weather gets colder, hot chocolate becomes a popular treat. This indulgent drink can be made with cocoa powder or melted chocolate, and you can add flavours like peppermint or hazelnut for an extra twist.
Health Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, hot chocolate supports heart health. For a healthier version, use real cocoa and avoid high-sugar mixes.
For an extra twist, you can add coffee powder to it, as I like mine that way :)
Insight: Real cocoa provides flavonoids, which support cardiovascular health.
Nutritional value of Hot chocolate: A typical 240ml serving of hot chocolate contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 320 kcal |
Proteins | 8g |
Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
5. Turmeric golden milk
Turmeric golden milk, or "haldi doodh," is getting a lot of love lately for its bright colour and health perks. This cosy drink has milk, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper, making it warm and comforting.
Health Benefits: Turmeric has curcumin, which helps fight inflammation, so it's great for recovery and staying well. A splash of honey adds sweetness and extra soothing benefits, especially when it’s chilly outside. Often seen as a go-to home remedy for colds, this best fall drink is a tasty way to support your health while soaking up those fall vibes.
Note: This drink is ideal before bedtime to promote better sleep and inflammation reduction.
Nutritional value of turmeric golden milk: A 150ml of turmeric golden milk contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 94 kcal |
Proteins | 1g |
Fat | 5g |
Carbohydrates | 11g |
6. Mulled wine
Mulled wine is a festive favourite, made by gently simmering red wine with spices and fruit, creating a warm and inviting drink that's perfect for gatherings.
Health Benefits: Red wine is rich in antioxidants, which can support heart health, and spices like cinnamon and cloves add their health benefits. When making mulled wine, just be mindful of the sugar from any sweeteners. Using natural alternatives can help keep these fall cocktails both tasty and healthier.
Tip: When making mulled wine, just be mindful of the sugar from any sweeteners. Using natural alternatives can help keep these fall cocktails both tasty and healthier.
Nutritional value of Mulled wine: 200ml of mulled wine contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 200 kcal |
Proteins | 0g |
Fat | 0g |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
7. Herbal tea
Herbal tea is a flexible drink that you can customise to suit your tastes. Blends like chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus are especially great in the fall, bringing warmth and relaxation.
Health Benefits: Depending on the herbs you choose, herbal teas can provide a range of health benefits, such as better digestion, reduced stress, and boosted immunity. You can also add a spoonful of honey, which will make it taste even better.
Recommendation: Chamomile can help improve sleep and relaxation, and it is ideal for autumn evenings.
Nutritional value of Herbal tea: A 150ml of herbal tea with one spoon of honey contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 64 kcal |
Proteins | 0g |
Fat | 0g |
Carbohydrates | 17 g |
Sugar | 16 g |
8. Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice is a refreshing and tangy drink that's especially popular during the fall and winter. Made from fresh cranberries, it can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other juices.
Health Benefits: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and are known to support urinary tract health. However, many store-bought versions have added sugars, so choosing 100% juice or making your own can boost its health benefits.
Insight: Homemade cranberry juice can help avoid unnecessary additives and retain natural antioxidants.
Nutritional value of Cranberry juice: 150ml homemade cranberry approximately contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 70 kcal |
Potassium | 2% of the daily value (DV) |
Vitamin C | 15% of the daily value (DV) |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
9. Spiked Apple Cider
Spiked apple cider is a festive cocktail that mixes warm apple cider with a splash of your favourite spirit, like rum or bourbon, and a touch of cinnamon.
Health Benefits: Coconut milk is loaded with healthy fats and provides vitamins C and E. The spices not only add flavour but also have anti-inflammatory properties.
Also, cinnamon can help stabilise blood sugar levels, and cardamom is known to aid digestion.
Advice: For people with lactose intolerance, this dairy-free alternative is soothing and beneficial.
Nutritional value of one spiked Apple Cider: A typical 200 ml glass contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 220 kcal |
Proteins | 0g |
Fat | 0g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
10. Spiced coconut milk
Spiced coconut milk is a creamy, dairy-free drink that mixes coconut milk with spices like cardamom and cinnamon. It’s perfect for warming up on those chilly nights.
Health Benefits: Coconut milk is loaded with healthy fats and provides vitamins C and E. The spices not only add flavour but also have anti-inflammatory properties.
Also, cinnamon can help stabilise blood sugar levels, and cardamom is known to aid digestion.
Advice: For people with lactose intolerance, this dairy-free alternative is soothing and beneficial.
Nutritional value of Spiced coconut milk: A 250ml glass of spiced coconut milk contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 150 kcal |
Proteins | 1g |
Saturated fat | 13-18 g |
Carbohydrates | 6g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let's address some common queries on what is good for your health:
1. What is a good drink for fall?
Try a spiced apple cider, pumpkin spice latte, or a maple bourbon cocktail. If you're not taking alcohol, a chai tea or hot chocolate with a sprinkle of cinnamon will be the best fall beverages to consume.
2. What liquor is best for fall?
Bourbon, with its warm fall spices, is perfect for this season. Dark rum adds warmth and sweetness, while spiced rum gives a festive holiday feel. Vodka also shines in autumn cocktails, especially when mixed with apple or cinnamon flavours.
3. What are Starbucks' seasonal drinks in the fall?
Starbucks offers several autumn drinks, including the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Caramel Apple Spice Latte, and Maple Pecan Latte. You can also enjoy the Chai Tea Latte and the new Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso. Each drink captures the cosy flavours of the season!
4. Is Chai an autumn drink?
Chai is indeed a fall favourite. The aromatic spices, such as cinnamon and cardamom, create a warm, cosy, and comforting flavour perfect for the cooler weather. A tall cup of chai latte can capture the soothing spirit of autumn.
Wrapping up
With cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colours, these beverages bring warmth and health benefits. Enjoy spiced favourites like pumpkin spice lattes and chai, or try healthier options like turmeric golden milk or apple cider.
Whether at home or hosting, these fall beverages elevate your experience. Embrace fall flavours and cosy up with festive drinks. Cheers to the perfect autumn beverage!