As the holiday season approaches, the Philippines transforms into a wonderland of festive lights and joyful celebrations. One delightful aspect of these holidays is the wide array of seasonal drinks that come to life during this time.
From the bustling streets of Manila to the serene corners of Cebu, you’ll find a variety of establishments that cater to the holiday spirit.
Curated Selection of Seasonal Drinks
Popular coffee chains like Coffee Project, Starbucks and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, among others, eagerly join in the festivities by offering a curated selection of seasonal drinks that warm the hearts and spirits of Filipinos and visitors alike.
While the country might not experience the chilly winters of other parts of the world, Filipinos have their unique ways of embracing the spirit of the season, and these iconic coffee shops have certainly become a part of that cherished tradition.
There’s something truly magical about the transition from summer to fall. Nature’s vibrant transformation inspires not only a change in wardrobe but also a shift in our culinary preferences.
Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice
One of the most anticipated traditions of this season is indulging in a variety of delicious, warming seasonal beverages. At the forefront of these fall-inspired concoctions and recipe stands the legendary Pumpkin Spice Latte, but there’s so much more to explore.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of seasonal drinks and discover must-try options. We’ll also delve into both the delectable offerings from renowned establishments and the local twists on seasonal beverages that make the Philippine holiday season truly special.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte Phenomenon
It does not matter matter that the country does not have an autumn season. When autumn arrives, store bought Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) from Starbucks and other coffee chains takes center stage.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the PSL has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring memes, hashtags, and even a devoted following known as “PSL enthusiasts.”
This sweet and spicy beverage combines espresso with steamed milk, infused with a pumpkin-flavored syrup and a blend of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove spices. A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top complete the experience.
The PSL is more than a drink; it’s a symbol of fall itself. Its comforting warmth and familiar flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia and create the perfect companion for a brisk, leaf-strewn afternoon walk. However, the PSL is just the beginning of the seasonal drink lineup.
While it’s a staple in Western countries, it has also found its way into the hearts of many Filipinos. The Philippines has a knack for putting a unique twist on traditional recipes, and the PSL is no exception.
Here, you can enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte infused with local spices and flavors that create a rich and unforgettable taste experience.
Boo! With A Pumpkin Brew
Let the spooky vibes flow with a Pumpkin Brew this Halloween season! Coffee Project has you covered with their mouth-watering Pumpkin Butterscotch series, a delightful twist on the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte.
As October unfolds, this bewitching concoction is sure to entice your taste buds and put you in the Halloween spirit.
Drop by the nearest Coffee Project for a cup of Pumpkin Butterscotch brew today, or if you prefer a dark place, more mysterious ambiance, it’s also available at Coffee Project Black, where you can savor this delectable brew amidst an atmosphere of enchantment.
Don’t miss out on this limited-time delight that perfectly captures the essence of the season.
Going Batty for Pumpkin Cookies
Prepare to be enchanted by the delightful flavors of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s seasonal offerings. They’ve crafted a bewitching duo of beverages that are sure to leave your taste buds spellbound.
As the autumn leaves fall and the air turns crisper, their Pumpkin Cookies & Cream Ice Blended®️ drink beckons with the warmth of pumpkin spice, making it the perfect companion for the season.
A Seasonal Sip of Autumn Nostalgia
Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte, often abbreviated as the PSL, is a beloved seasonal favorite that heralds the arrival of autumn.
This iconic beverage is a symphony of flavors, combining rich espresso with steamed milk, a delightful pumpkin-flavored syrup, and a blend of other spices, including ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, it offers a comforting and aromatic sip of fall. Renowned for its warm and familiar taste, the Pumpkin Spice Latte has become a cultural sensation, eagerly awaited by enthusiasts who crave the cozy and nostalgic essence of the season.
Homemade Pumpkin Spice
While these coffee chains offer a wonderful selection of seasonal drinks, there’s also something to be said for creating your own holiday-inspired beverages at home.
Making your own Pumpkin Spice Latte, for example, is not only cost-effective but allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking. Here’s a simple and easy recipe for making your own pumpkin spice:
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1.5 teaspoons ground allspice
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cloves
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all the spices.
- Mix well until you have a uniform, fragrant spice blend.
- Store the homemade pumpkin spice mix in an airtight container.
Now that you have your homemade pumpkin spice, you can use it to add a touch of fall flavor to your morning coffee, hot chocolate, or even your favorite baked goods.
Pumpkin Goodies
If you are not much of a coffee drinker or a fan of flavored drinks, there is no reason why you should not enjoy the season. You can celebrate the season with a delectable spread of goodies like homemade pumpkin pie spice, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bread with a dash of maple syrup, and pumpkin flavored cookies.
You can have your own blend or check out the internet for full recipe. There are so many recipes and flavor that you can try exploring on your own, with family or friends.
Beyond Pumpkin Spice
While the Pumpkin Spice Latte reigns supreme, there is a multitude of other seasonal drinks that deserve your attention:
Hot Tsokolate
One drink that defines the Philippine holiday season is Hot Tsokolate. This classic Filipino beverage is a thick, rich, and hot chocolate made from tablea, a local cocoa tablet.
During the holidays, Filipinos often add a touch of seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create a warm and comforting beverage that’s perfect for cozying up by the fire (or just your favorite reading nook).
Bibingka-Spiced Coffee
Bibingka is a traditional Filipino rice cake, usually enjoyed during the Christmas season. But did you know that the essence of bibingka can also be found in your coffee cup?
Some local cafes offer a Bibingka-Spiced Coffee, combining the flavors of bibingka, including coconut, salted egg, and cheese, with a cup of warm, aromatic coffee. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of Filipino holiday traditions.
Mango-Ginger Smoothie
The Philippines is known for its luscious mangoes, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a Mango-Ginger Smoothie? This drink combines the tropical goodness of ripe mangoes with a hint of ginger for that extra zing.
It’s a refreshing, vitamin-packed beverage that’s perfect for sipping under the warm Philippine sun during the holiday season. It is also part of professional nutritionist’s advice on natural drinks.
Conclusion
The holiday season in the Philippines is a time of warmth, joy, and togetherness. While the country may not experience snow or freezing temperatures, the Philippines has its unique way of celebrating the holidays.
These seasonal drinks, from the global sensation of Pumpkin Spice Latte to the local treasures like Hot Tsokolate and Bibingka-Spiced Coffee, add a special touch to the festivities.
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, don’t miss the opportunity to savor these delightful holiday drinks that capture the spirit of the season in the Philippines.
If you had a blast and totally enjoyed these concoctions, recipes with all those spices, why don’t you leave a comment on their social media or leave a ratings of 5 stars so they will keep preparing them when the right season comes knocking.
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