November in Chicago is all about crisp air, cozy layers, and, of course, warming up with a delicious cup of coffee. To help you navigate the city’s coffee scene this month, I’ve rounded up five of my favorite drinks from local spots and included DIY recipes so you can recreate the magic at home.
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte – Intelligentsia Coffee
Recipe:
- 1 shot of espresso
- ¾ cup steamed milk
- 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
- Mix pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Froth the milk and espresso.
- Combine pumpkin mixture with espresso, then add steamed milk.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
2. Maple Cinnamon Latte – La Colombe
Recipe:
- 1 shot of espresso
- ¾ cup steamed milk
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Brew espresso and pour into a cup.
- Steam milk and combine with maple syrup and cinnamon.
- Pour milk mixture over espresso and stir gently.
- Optional: sprinkle extra cinnamon on top.
3. Gingerbread Mocha – Sawada Coffee
Recipe:
- 1 shot of espresso
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
- ½ tsp gingerbread spice mix (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
- Heat milk and mix in chocolate syrup and gingerbread spices.
- Pour over brewed espresso.
- Top with whipped cream and a pinch of spice mix.
4. Caramel Apple Cold Brew – Dollop Coffee Co.
Recipe:
- ½ cup cold brew coffee
- ½ cup apple juice
- 1 tbsp caramel syrup
- Ice
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Mix cold brew, apple juice, and caramel syrup.
- Stir gently and enjoy crisp, refreshing flavors.
5. Hazelnut Cappuccino – The Wormhole Coffee
Recipe:
- 1 shot of espresso
- ¾ cup steamed milk
- 1 tbsp hazelnut syrup
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
- Brew espresso and pour into your favorite cup.
- Steam milk and add hazelnut syrup.
- Pour milk over espresso and top with a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Final Thoughts:
Chicago’s coffee scene is full of seasonal flavors that make November feel extra cozy. Whether you visit your favorite café or recreate these drinks at home, these five options will warm you up from your fingers to your soul.
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