Fall in a cup of coffee? Yes please.

The delicious aroma of maple and espresso fill your immediate surroundings with visions of fall skies and falling leaves. There’s almost nothing like the sweet smell of coffee to brighten any sour mood, and with cooler weather slowly approaching, getting cozy with a hot drink can be just what the soul needs.

If venturing out to new grounds in the realm of lattes and espresso-based concoctions seems to spark your interest, the sweet taste of maple mixed with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon in this latte will have you wrapped of in a blanket of fall-like bliss.

The ingredients you’ll need are:

• 2 tablespoons of ground espresso beans
• 1/2 cup of whole milk
• 3/4 tablespoon of pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tablespoon of bourbon
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon

If you don’t eat dairy or wish to substitute any of the other ingredients for something that’s calling your name, the creative direction of your latte is entirely in your hands.

First, you’ll want to start by adding 2 tablespoons of ground espresso to your stovetop espresso maker, as well as 1 cup of water. Put the stove on high heat and bring the espresso to a boil.

If you’re in need of an easy way to brew espresso at home, this is a great affordable option, or if you’d rather invest in an at-home espresso machine, this is a solid choice.

Next, you’ll want to whisk ½ a cup of whole milk in a bowl. A hand whisk will do, but an electric whisk gives the milk a frothier texture. Feel free to substitute this step with whatever nut milk alternative you prefer. Whisk the milk until you’re satisfied with the level of froth.

Once the espresso is done brewing, pour that into a glass. Then add 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup and a dash to the espresso and stir until thoroughly mixed. This part is really up for interpretation, so follow what your heart desires, and add as little or as much as you desire. Top the drink with the foamed milk and sprinkle with cinnamon until your heart’s content.

Et voila.

The taste of fall is yours to indulge in.

-C.M.