Fall Coffee Drinks: 8 Recipes to Sip All Autumn Long

 

As the leaves change and temperatures cool, there’s nothing like a delicious fall coffee to warm your morning. From spiced lattes to sweet, nutty brews, fall coffee drinks bring a cozy vibe to any day. In this guide, we’ll share San Francisco Bay Coffee’s top fall drink recipes and blends that embody the flavors of the season, offering something perfect for every taste. 

Pumpkin Caramel Latte

What would fall be without the sensational Pumpkin Spice Latte? This San Francisco Bay twist on the classic fall drink combines pumpkin purée, spices, and caramel for an elevated version of everyone’s favorite seasonal latte. Enjoy it warm or iced, making it adaptable to both cool autumn days and those early fall afternoons that still hold a touch of summer warmth.

Ingredients

  • 2 shots of espresso made with San Francisco Bay Espresso Roast Coffee

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree 

  • 3/4 cup brewed coffee

  • 2 shots of espresso

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice seasoning

  • 3/4 cup sugar

  • 1 1/2 cups milk or almond milk

  • Caramel sauce

  • Ice (if enjoying cold)


Instructions

Make pumpkin sauce:

1. Add pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, brewed coffee, and sugar to a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until well combined. 

Prepare your cup:

2. Drizzle caramel sauce on the inside edges of your favorite cup. 

3. Add the desired amount of ice, 1/4 cup of pumpkin sauce, and 1 1/2 cups of milk to the cup.

4. Pull two shots of espresso using San Francisco Bay Espresso Roast. Pour over the top of the milk.

5. Stir and enjoy!

Special Notes:

If you prefer to enjoy your drink hot, omit the ice and warm your milk. Extra pumpkin sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days for future use.

Pumpkin Pie Latte

Want to make the perfect hot or cold Pumpkin Pie Latte? We’re here to help with this recipe from our food scientist, Katie Rosenberg. This recipe is made from scratch and is a perfect use for any extra pumpkin filling you have leftover from making pumpkin pies.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cold brew (we used our French Roast)

  • 1 cup brown sugar

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

  • 1 3/4 cups milk 


Instructions

  1. Combine 1/2 cup of brewed coffee and 1 cup of brown sugar. Let sugar dissolve over low-medium heat.

  2. Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice to the simple syrup, then let the sauce simmer for 5 to 10 minutes over low to medium heat.

  3. Turn off the heat and add 1 1/4 cups of milk.


Special Notes:

Assembling a Hot Drink:

Step 1: Combine the following ingredients in your favorite mug:

  • 1 shot espresso

  • 1/4 cup sauce

  • 1/2 cup milk


Step 2: Top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie seasoning.

Assembling a Cold Drink:

Step 1: Combine the following ingredients in your favorite mug:


Step 2: Top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie seasoning.


Apple Cinnamon Latte

Apple season is synonymous with fall, and the Apple Cinnamon Latte perfectly captures that essence. This cozy drink combines spice-infused apple cider, milk, and San Francisco Bay’s French Roast coffee. Add caramel and apple pie spice to the rim of the glass for a special touch, turning each sip into a flavor-packed experience. Plus, any leftover apple base can be used to create more lattes or even added to tea, mulled wine, or other holiday drinks.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups apple juice

  • 1/4 orange juice

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1/2 tsp whole cloves

  • 3 teaspoons apple pie seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 8 ounces medium dark coffee

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • Cinnamon powder 

  • Cinnamon stick (optional)

  • Caramel sauce


Equipment Required

  • Saucepan

  • Whisk

  • Stove

  • Spoons

  • Two small dishes or saucers

  • Coffee pod brewing machine

  • Measuring cups

  • Milk frother


Instructions


  1. To make the apple base, combine and whisk the apple juice, orange juice, whole cloves, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of apple pie seasoning in a small saucepan.

  2. Simmer the apple base on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes.

  3. Remove the apple base from the heat and take out the whole cloves. Set aside the apple base.

  4. In a small dish or saucer, make the brown sugar spice mixture for the glass rim. Mix 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of apple pie seasoning.

  5. Pour approximately 2 tablespoons of store-bought or homemade caramel into a small dish or saucer.

  6. First, dip the glass upside down in caramel, then dip the glass in the brown sugar and spice mixture. Set aside.

  7. Brew 8 ounces of a medium dark roast coffee. We recommend using our French Roast OneCUP™ coffee pods.

  8. Add 1/2 cup of apple base to the coffee.

  9. Froth 1/4 cup milk. Add milk to the drink.

  10. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top. For an extra bit of flair, garnish with a cinnamon stick.


Special Notes

Remember, a large amount of the apple base will be left over. The extra base can be used to make lattes a couple of days in a row or used to spice up other holiday drinks for all ages. Consider adding the apple base to an herbal tea, such as rooibos, or using it to spice up a cozy batch of mulled wine. The possibilities are endless!

Pecan Pie Latte

For a taste that feels like a bite of Thanksgiving, the Pecan Pie Latte is a perfect choice. With the rich flavor of roasted pecans and a hint of caramel, this latte reimagines the classic pecan pie in drink form. Pair San Francisco Bay’s medium to dark roast coffee with homemade pecan syrup for a dessert-like treat. It’s an indulgent option for cozy gatherings or as a holiday treat to share with friends. 

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces dark roast coffee

  • 1/2 cup milk or almond milk

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons pecan butter

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • whipped cream


Equipment Required

  • Measuring cup

  • Measuring spoons

  • Saucepan

  • Stove

  • Spoon

  • Mug

  • Coffee brewing equipment

  • Milk frother


Instructions

  1. To make the pecan pie syrup, add the butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pecan butter, and sugar to a small saucepan. Heat the ingredients on low, stirring well until combined.

  2. Once the ingredients melt together, remove the mixture from the heat.

  3. Dip the rim of your favorite mug into the syrup.

  4. Brew 8 ounces of medium- to dark-roast coffee.

  5. Add 1/4 cup of the pecan pie syrup and coffee to the mug.

  6. Froth 1/2 cup of milk. Add to drink.

  7. Top the beverage with the desired amount of whipped cream.


Special Notes

Store extra syrup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also drizzle it over ice cream, pie, and pancakes!

Feel free to use store-bought pecan butter or make your own. If you want to go the homemade route, simply toast high-quality pecans, then pop them into a blender or food processor with a pinch of salt and process until they are as smooth as butter. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Caramel Cold Brew

Turn your afternoon coffee into a delicious caramel delight with our easy-to-follow caramel cold brew recipe. Discover the essential ingredients, specialized equipment, and detailed instructions for crafting the perfect cup at home. Transforming your regular cold brew into a decadent, caramel-infused treat is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and a milk frother, you can elevate your coffee game in no time. Here’s how:

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cold brew

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 3 tablespoons salted caramel syrup


Equipment

  • Coffee grinder

  • Coffee filter

  • Cold brew coffee maker or a large container with a lid

  • Hand frother or whisk

  • Measuring cups and spoons


Instructions

Making The Cold Brew

  • Grind Coffee: Grind your favorite coffee beans to a coarse consistency.

  • Add Water: Pour 1 3/4 cups of cold water into a large container.

  • Add Coffee Grounds: Place ¾ cup of ground coffee into a coffee filter and insert it into the water container.

  • Brew Time: Seal the container and let it steep in the fridge for 16-24 hours.

  • Remove Filter: After steeping, remove the coffee filter and discard the grounds. Your cold brew is now ready to use.


Coffee Assembly

  • Add Cold Brew: Pour 8 ounces of cold brew into a cup.

  • Prepare Caramel Milk: In a separate container, combine ½ cup milk with 3 tablespoons of salted caramel syrup

  • Froth the Mixture: Use a hand frother to blend the milk and syrup until the mixture is frothy.

  • Combine: Pour caramel milk into the cold brew coffee and stir gently.


Special Notes:

Save time by making a large batch of cold brew concentrate at the beginning of the week. You'll have the base ready whenever a caramel craving strikes. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle additional caramel sauce down the inside of your glass before adding the cold brew, creating beautiful caramel ribbons that sweeten each sip.

Rosemary Latte

Bring a unique herbal twist to your coffee with a Rosemary Latte. Rosemary is a staple in fall cooking, especially around Thanksgiving, and its woodsy, aromatic flavor complements coffee beautifully. This latte features rosemary-infused milk, paired with San Francisco Bay Coffee’s French Roast OneCUP coffee pods, to create a warm, cozy drink perfect for chilly evenings. 

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups Barista almond milk (2% works great also)

  • 2 rosemary sprigs

  • 8 ounces medium/dark roast coffee

  • 2 teaspoons monk fruit sweetener blend (or 1 tablespoon sugar) 

  • Ground rosemary (optional)


Instructions

  1. Make the rosemary-infused milk by combining the milk and rosemary sprigs in a saucepan. Simmer on low heat for 12 minutes. (This makes enough for 6 servings.)

  2. Remove the rosemary sprigs and place the rosemary-infused milk in the refrigerator.

  3. Brew 8 ounces of medium- to dark-roast coffee (we use our French Roast OneCUP™ coffee pods).

  4. Stir 2 tablespoons of sweetener into the coffee.

  5. Remove the rosemary milk from the refrigerator.

  6. Portion ¼ cup of rosemary milk per drink and froth.

  7. Pour the frothed milk into the sweetened coffee.

  8. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground rosemary.


Special Notes:

There is no flavor quite like that of rosemary. It is a woodsy herb with subtle notes of mint, sage, pepper, and balsamic. Many associate rosemary with savory recipes, commonly used to enhance bread, soups, roasts, poultry, and vegetables. The exciting and surprising news is that rosemary is also a delightful addition to coffee. In fact, the delicate, earthy, almost floral, almost spicy aroma adds another dimension to the coffee experience. The synchrony of flavors comes alive with a dash of sweetener and frothy milk. 


Toasted White Mocha

Nothing says fall like the sight of changing leaves, followed by the first flurries of winter snow. A Toasted White Mocha blends French Vanilla coffee, caramel, and white chocolate for a sweet, warming drink that’s perfect for the transition from fall to winter. Enjoy it as a morning treat or an after-dinner dessert on cool autumn nights. 


Ingredients

  • 2 squares white baking chocolate

  • 1 teaspoon caramel sauce

  • 8 ounces hot coffee (we suggest our French Vanilla)

  • Milk

  • Whipped cream

  • White chocolate shavings


Instructions

1. Measure out the white chocolate and caramel into a mug.

2. Pour in the hot coffee and mix until thoroughly combined.

3. Add your preferred amount of milk.

4. Top with whipped cream and white chocolate shavings.

 

Special Notes:

Enjoy a toasted white mocha at the start of your day, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or an after-dinner treat. Make it for yourself, or share it with friends and family!

Dulce de Leche Latte

Imagine sipping on a Dulce de Leche Latte next to a roaring fire. This drink is all about caramel warmth, with rich, dairy-free dulce de leche flavor paired with oat milk for a creamy, luxurious experience. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a dairy-free twist that doesn’t compromise the indulgent sweetness of traditional caramel.

Ingredients

  • 2 shots of espresso

  • 2 tablespoons non-dairy or vegan dulce de leche

  • 3/4 cup oat milk

  • Cinnamon


Instructions

1. Place the dulce de leche in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 15 to 30 seconds.

2. Transfer the softened dulce de leche into your favorite coffee mug.

3. Brew two shots of espresso and pour over the dulce de leche.

4. Stir until fully incorporated.

5. Steam the oat milk and pour it over the espresso.

6. Sprinkle with cinnamon.


Special Notes:

The rich caramel flavor of dulce de leche makes it the perfect addition to a latte! Here's a simple recipe for a non-dairy version using oat milk, which pairs perfectly with the dulce de leche flavor. 


Our Fall Coffee Blend Recommendations

While specialty fall drinks add excitement to your coffee routine, the foundation of every great seasonal beverage starts with quality beans. We've selected three San Francisco Bay Coffee blends that capture the essence of autumn, whether you're crafting elaborate lattes or simply savoring a straightforward morning brew.


Fog Chaser

When mornings feel misty and the world seems wrapped in fog, San Francisco Bay Coffee’s Fog Chaser blend cuts through it all. This blend of dark and medium-roasted beans yields a smooth, medium-dark roast with just the right balance. Fog Chaser is ideal for those early starts when the chill in the air needs a little help shaking off. Available in whole beans, OneCUP™ pods, and ground coffee, this versatile blend brings warmth and focus to your fall mornings. 


Donut Shop 

For a playful fall coffee that pairs well with cozy mornings, try Donut Shop. This medium-light roast is crafted from Arabica beans sourced from Africa and Central America, resulting in a bright, medium-bodied coffee with a sweet finish. It’s a lovely choice for adding a little extra sweetness to your morning, especially when paired with a homemade pumpkin donut or slice of apple pie.


Bay Bridge Blend

While specialty drinks are a treat, sometimes you just need a delicious cup of coffee to start your fall morning. Bay Bridge Blend is a smooth, balanced medium roast that’s perfect for those crisp autumn days when a flavorful brew is all you need. Carefully crafted from beans sourced across Central America, South America, and Africa, this blend offers a full-bodied experience with notes of cocoa, vanilla, citrus, and brown sugar.


Craft Cozy Fall Coffee Recipes with San Francisco Bay Coffee

Ready to bring these fall favorites to life? San Francisco Bay Coffee has everything you need to enjoy the season, from bold blends to specialty recipes that capture the essence of autumn. Browse our collection to find your favorite fall flavors, and explore the blog for coffee-making tips, recipes, and coffee farmer stories to elevate your coffee experience. 

 

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