“I know, I know, pumpkin spice is so stereotypical, but it only got that way because of how delicious it is!”
Introduction
Everyone loves enjoying the falling leaves and the changing colours of autumn. Everyone loves a little sweet treat now and then. Now, what if we put those two together?
Regardless of whether you enjoy coffee, tea, both or neither, I have painstakingly procured a collection of Camrose’s finest fall sweets and treats. This review focuses on small, local businesses with featured fall menu items. Throughout the month of October, I set out on a quest to find the most autumnal items of them all. In total, I tried over a dozen different things from many local cafes. However, I have narrowed the list down to five key contenders.
Of course, I have my biases for what makes a sweet treat ideal for fall. Flavour is a major factor: warm spices such as cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, or flavour profiles involving caramel, nuts, maple or pumpkin make up what I typically envision in a perfect fall drink. While crafting this list, I sampled and incorporated a variety of menu items in order to make the spread as inclusive as possible. Many people cannot or do not enjoy coffee, and others have similar feelings about tea, which I factored in to my considerations. I also considered the temperature of the drinks I tried and ensured that I tried both hot and iced options. Finally, I also tried fall-themed baked goods when available and did my best to note possible allergy-friendly options. Everyone deserves to feel included in the festive season!
The fall menu items at many of the local cafes I visited were similar. I tried a large variety of the different drinks, but of course, my final rankings contain a few similar items. In order to level the playing field, I only picked one item to feature from each business.
#1: Apple Cider from G.O.A.T
Starting off the list strong with arguably one of the most autumnal drinks of all: apple cider. However, G.O.A.T Coffee Co. has implemented a small twist on this beloved classic. Topped with delicious whipped cream and a caramel drizzle, this steamy cider was my absolute favourite. Combining the familiar warm flavour pairing of cinnamon and apple with a new addition may seem somewhat intimidating initially, but I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
Not only is the drink the perfect pick-me-up after a chilly day, but the interior of G.O.A.T Coffee Co. is remarkably cozy as well. The building’s wooden design and warm aesthetic make the simple act of getting a crafted beverage feel akin to a relaxing cabin getaway. G.O.A.T also offers gluten-friendly options, as well as a mobile app that allows customers to collect loyalty points and order their food and drinks for pickup. The staff were kind, and very genuine in a way that made even brief interactions feel heartwarming. If you have the opportunity, I would definitely recommend stopping by.
#2: Iced Chai with Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam from Fika Coffeehouse
Every student I have met during my undergraduate degree here in Camrose knows about Fika Coffeehouse, for very good reason. The friendly staff, the vast variety of seating options, and the delicious food and beverages make it clear why this cafe is a favourite of many. Their fall menu featured three delicious drink options, all of which I was eager to try.
However, my favourite was the iced chai topped with pumpkin spice cold foam. I know, I know, pumpkin spice is so stereotypical, but it only got that way because of how delicious it is! This drink’s flavour profile was identical to pumpkin pie, which was deeply enjoyed. It was a lot more pumpkin-forward than a typical pumpkin chai, but a very welcome change in my books.
#3: Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai from Strada
Strada Coffee Co is one of my favourite spots on Main Street to visit, and its iced pumpkin cream chai has had me coming back every single fall. A more classic pumpkin chai than Fika’s version, this drink boasts warm spices and a thick, creamy topping that customers just cannot get enough of.
Strada also has a large variety of baked goods, gelato, and other artisanal goodies for sale in store, so everyone can find something they enjoy! The staff are always very professional and welcoming, and are very accommodating of food allergies and intolerances.
#4: Macarons from the Sweeterie
Now, we’re getting into the baked goods that were specially crafted for this fall season. At the Sweeterie, many delicious treats are made in-store all year long. However, this Halloween season, they took it to a whole new level of spooky. They offered fall-flavoured donuts, festive coffees and dirty sodas, and even cookie decorating kits.
My personal favourite, however, was the Halloween-themed macarons. These cuties came in a variety of flavours and featured unique designs. I liked the caramel-flavoured macaron, which was decorated with a hand-drawn Frankenstein face. These treats are gluten-friendly, and absolutely delectable.
#5: Frosted Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookie Latte from Camroast Coffee
Last but not least, I wanted to highlight a new local cafe here in Camrose. Camroast Coffee offers comfortable seating and a warm atmosphere in the perfect location to visit while running errands.
This fall, they featured a delicious latte that combined autumn flavours with notes of cookies and caramel. Although the name of this drink was a bit of a mouthful to order, it was worth it for the yummy goodness that the drink contained.
Conclusion
Local cafes offer unique, delicious drinks all throughout the year, but this fall? These were my personal favourites. However, it isn’t just the cinnamon and espresso making this season warm and cozy. Businesses like Fika, G.O.A.T, Strada, the Sweeterie, and Camroast bring such a special feeling of community to our city that is difficult to find anywhere else.
This fall and winter season, I encourage you to support local businesses and keep some whimsy in your hearts as you move through your daily lives.