It’s that time when all thoughts turn to pumpkin spice. It has been almost 20 years since Starbucks launched its pumpkin spice lattes and things took off from there. Pumpkin spice flavors an array of drinks and food now.
Those pumpkin spice coffees, teas and baked goods are not only full of flavor but pack a lot of health benefits as well. Cinnamon and nutmeg both have anti-inflammatory properties and are loaded with antioxidants. Ginger also boosts the immune system and can reduce nausea. Clove provides pain relief. The Pumpkin winter square offers fiber, and Vitamins A, C, and B.
When you crave a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte this time of year, head to the Freshfields Village Market on Kiawah Island to get your fix. They make their signature drink with espresso and steamed milk, adding the spice combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Top it with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices for a decadent treat.
Drop into Java Java, an independently owned coffee shop in Freshfields Village, to try a seasonal-flavored chai latte or matcha. They also serve an array of specialty coffees and delicious pastries.
Cafe Paname on Isle of Palms serves drinks in your favorite fall flavors, including a hot or cold pumpkin-spiced specialty coffee drink. The Refuge on Isle of Palms also serves a pumpkin-spiced coffee drink, so stop in this family-owned venue.
Add a seasonal shot to your favorite beverage at The Hemingway on Johns Island, which offers an array of specialty coffee drinks, along with a collection of craft beers.
Speaking of beers, Estuary Beans & Barley has an autumn menu that includes a pumpkin brew, available as of the first day of fall on Sept. 22. Low Tide Brewing also brewed its pumpkin-flavored beer just in time for the season. Check them out!
And what about trying a pumpkin spice margarita? Last year, it was the most Google-searched pumpkin-flavored item in South Carolina. Will it make the cut this year?
Let us know your favorite seasonal drink on Facebook!