Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Life

My Favorite Fall Drinks as a Coffee Hater

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter.

It’s fall, and we all know what that means! The coffee girlies are speeding to their favorite coffee shops to order their pumpkin-flavored brew. There are so many wonderful coffee creations that they’ve been waiting all year for. It smells so good and the vibe of it all is perfect.

The taste, however, is not. I’ve tried to love coffee for far too long, and I’ve given up. That doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy my own fall drinks though! Here are some fall drinks that don’t include the bitter coffee taste. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Spice Chai

If you’re anything like me, when chai became popular, you had no idea what it was. Well, I’m here to tell you. Chai is a tea originating from India (the word “chai” actually translates to “tea”). It also presents many health benefits. Due to its black tea roots, it reduces cholesterol and helps heart health. Chai can “help lower blood pressure (thanks to the cinnamon), fight skin cancer (courtesy of the cardamom), and much more.”

This fall, try this yummy tea option and add some pumpkin spice to make it more festive. This is a tasty, healthy, and perfect alternative to all of you out there who don’t love coffee. I know I’ll be trying it!

Hot Cocoa

This is a classic. While this may arguably be more of a winter drink, I argue that it should be enjoyed all year. The fall season is when it starts to cool down, so what better time to have a nice cup of cocoa than when it’s chilly outside? The leaves are changing, the snow is brewing, and your hands are going to be warming from the steamy cup you’ll be holding. It warms you from the inside out, like a hug… a chocolatey hug!

Cocoa is the perfect drink to get you in the spirit of the season, and I’m sure there are fall flavors out there to make it extra special.

Frappuccinos

In case you didn’t know, a Frappuccino is not coffee (could’ve fooled me). I’ve always steered clear of them because I thought they would taste like bitter coffee. I was wrong!

Go to your nearest Starbucks, find the most appealing fall-themed drink, and get it as a frap. I know I’ll be trying a pumpkin spice frappuccino! This is the perfect way to satisfy the fall drink-shaped hole in your heart.

Apple Cider

Apples are so fall, and cider is made out of apples! It’s perfect! Served hot or cold, this festive drink is a wonderful alternative to coffee. Sweet, tangy, or filled with spices, make this fall filled with all types of cider!

Steamed Apple Juice with Apple Brown Sugar

This just screams fall. While Starbucks is known for its coffee, they do provide an abundance of alternatives for those who aren’t fans. Simple and festive, and similar to cider, steamed apple juice is a fall essential. You can also ask for some added brown sugar to give it a less tart and more sweet taste if that’s what you’re in the mood for. Check out these Starbucks drinks for some other fall drink ideas!

Pumpkin Spice Creamers

While these are marketed towards coffee lovers, they are fair game. I challenge you to try some of your favorite fall drinks with added pumpkin spice creamer. Who knows, maybe you’ll invent something amazing! (Bonus tip: add this to a frappuccino!)

Add Pumpkin Foam to Your Drink of Choice

Whether you like coffee or not, don’t miss out on this seasonal and iconic foam option for your drinks. Try it on fraps, cocoa, and more! It’s super yummy and will definitely get you in the fall mood. Plus, every sip comes with a sniff of wonderful pumpkin spice deliciousness.

Wendy’s Pumpkin Spice Frosty

This last one is my favorite. While not technically a drink, it’s a fall essential for me. The fall twist on a creamy classic is the perfect addition to my fall must-haves. You should try one too!

Bonus drinks: You can also try any other fall-themed milkshakes, smoothies, or ice creams!

Navigating the realm of fall drinks without the love of coffee can be difficult. However, I’m on your side and ready to try some of these fun alternatives with you. Happy fall!

Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Pinterest!

Hi! My name is Vega Scholpp and I'm a sophomore at FSU! This is my third semester writing for Her Campus. I am a Media/Communication Studies Major, studying to be in the Sports Broadcasting industry. In my free time I love to read, go to the beach, listen to Taylor Swift, play sports, and have game nights with my friends! Go Noles!