Nothing says “me time” like a ten minute coffee break. But sometimes we’re not in a coffee mood, yet we crave a warm cup to cradle in our hands. Fall is in the air and it’s the perfect time to try something new. With an abundance of earthy staples like apples and ginger, we can brew some healthy coffee alternatives that are fresh, fun, and easy.
Apple Spice Tea
Have you ever boiled fruit for tea? It’s surprisingly simple and a wonderfully satisfying coffee alternative when you add your favorite herbs and spices. This spicy tea hits the spot for a soothing lift without all the caffeine. Play around with the spice amounts to suit your taste.
- 1 apple peeled and grated (Gala apples are perfect)
- 16 ounces of water
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 clove
- pinch of nutmeg
Bring all ingredients to a boil. Simmer for 5 minutes, strain, and sip slowly.
Ginger Matcha Green Tea
Green tea is the perfect coffee alternative. It has so many health benefits, and when you drink matcha, you consume the whole leaf in power form. If you want a neutral tea with a smoky edge, try matcha. You’ll experience a grounding effect when you drink it, and ginger adds an anti-inflammatory punch.
- 1 tsp green tea power
- ¼ tsp powdered ginger
Boil water, add matcha and ginger, and enjoy.
Gourmet Hot Chocolate
Thanks to Lindt, hot chocolate will never taste the same again. Use milk or a milk substitute, drop in your favorite truffle, and you have a gourmet hot chocolate ready in minutes. I love to add cinnamon for its blood sugar lowering properties. It’s a great coffee alternative with only a small amount of caffeine from the chocolate. It’s also a welcome replacement to the boxed hot chocolate mixes that are loaded with chemicals.
- 1 cup milk or milk substitute
- 1 Lindt truffle
- Dash of Cinnamon
Bring the milk to a low boil, drop in the truffle, stir, add cinnamon, and indulge!
Turmeric Tea
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta made this one famous. Turmeric tea is filled with all sorts of health benefits thanks to turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. Click here for the recipe.
Fall is full of festive and comforting flavors! What’s your favorite seasonal snack or beverage?