Fall is finally in full swing, evident in the array of colors hanging on the trees as we pass by on our way to class and the drop in temperature (if you’re an out-of-state student and think this is bad… just wait). Not only have we entered a new season, but we students are also collectively entering a new academic season: midterm season.
With temperatures dropping and exams, papers, and projects piling up, it can be hard to appreciate the new season unfolding around us when we’re stuck inside all day trying to stay afloat academically. That’s exactly why I’ve found a way to bring a little piece of fall indoors! With many Ann Arbor coffee shops rolling out their fall menus, I thought I’d highlight a few fan favorites, along with some unique flavor combinations worth trying. Whether you’re a matcha or coffee girl, local cafes have something fun and fall festive for everyone!
1. Hazel Coffee Co.’s Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew/Latte
A short drive or a mindful walk will take you to Ann Arbor’s newest coffee spot, which is quickly shaping up to be a student favorite: Hazel Coffee Co.! Shake up your usual cold brew with a festive fall twist by trying their signature Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew. Or, if lattes are more your thing, their dessert-inspired Pumpkin Pie and classic Pumpkin Spice flavors, mixed with espresso and milk, are sure to lift your spirits and fuel your study sessions!
2. Hazel Coffee Co.’s Apple Pie Matcha
Looking for something a little different from your usual matcha? Try Hazel Coffee Co.’s Apple Pie Matcha, featuring a spiced apple infusion combined with milk and hand-whisked matcha. It’s a refreshing, fall-inspired pick-me-up to sip on while hitting the Ugli.
3. Sweetwaters’ Pumpkin Chai Latte
Head to the Union for Sweetwaters’ seasonal Pumpkin Chai Latte! This cozy drink combines delicious housemade chai tea with pumpkin spices and creamy milk. Want to take it up a notch? Add their decadent Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam for the ultimate fall treat. Don’t worry, you can get it hot or iced!
4. SmlWrld Cafe’s Apple Cider Donut Matcha
Bring the cider mill experience straight to your study session with SmlWrld Cafe’s Apple Cider Donut Matcha! This festive drink combines fresh apple cider flavors and house-made brown sugar syrup with your choice of milk and their signature matcha. It’s topped with vanilla bean cold foam and a donut crumble, bringing together all the flavors of a perfect fall day at the cider mill.
5. Misfit’s Apple Jack Latte
If you’re an apple lover, Misfit’s Apple Jack Latte deserves a spot on your fall drink list! This delicious combination of housemade apple syrup, espresso, and milk is finished with a dash of cinnamon for the perfect autumn-inspired sip. You can order it hot or iced, depending on your mood. Misfit’s was voted Best Coffee in Ann Arbor, making it a must-visit spot for your next study break! Pro tip: Skip the long line by ordering online! It’s super easy and saves you time!
With Ann Arbor cafes offering an abundance of fall flavors to explore, take this as your sign to give yourself a well- deserved study break. Head to a cafe, grab a seasonal drink, and find something that will keep your energy up while helping you embrace the fall spirit!