Introducing seasonal flavours is a great way to attract new customers and keep regulars coming back.
Coffee consumption is on the rise, with demand increasing by 3% in the past year.[1] Consumers now have more options than ever when ordering at cafes. Menus are expanding, and personalized drinks have become the norm. This shift has led the beverage industry to experiment with new ingredients and creative twists on classic flavours. Read on as Canterbury’s beverage experts share the hottest fall beverage trends.
[1] Canadian Coffee Drinking Trends 2024 Report
Sip-Worthy
As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, coffee enthusiasts look for cozy and comforting flavours to complement the season. Hazelnut has consistently been one of the top 10 flavors for the past five years[2], and for good reason.
Hazelnut’s popularity can be attributed to its versatility and timeless appeal. Whether enjoyed in a classic hazelnut latte, a creamy hazelnut mocha, or even a refreshing hazelnut iced coffee, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness. This flavour pairs exceptionally well with a variety of milk options, making it a favourite among those who enjoy plant-based alternatives.
Trend essentials: Torani Hazelnut Syrup, Hazy Mocha, Hazy Macchiato.
[2] Kerry Marketing Insights Taste Program 2023
Spicing it Up
Pumpkin spice is back in season, remaining a favourite across various food and beverage categories.
Pumpkin is an incredibly versatile flavour, making it a popular choice for specialty beverages. Its adaptability shines when paired with other fall flavours like cinnamon or chai. These combinations work well because of their complementary profiles and aromatic spices. The slightly sweet taste of pumpkin balances the bold, spicy notes of chai, adding depth without overpowering the drink. Together, they create a warm, comforting beverage that’s especially popular during the colder months.
Trend essentials: Torani Pumpkin Sauce, Torani Pumpkin Spice Syrup, Chai Pumpkin Cold brew, Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Latte, Pumpkin Cinnamon Cold Brew, Ambient Moon Chai.
Nutty & Nice
Most people customize their coffee, which makes sense since coffee is often a ritualized, habitual experience. Nearly 1 in 5 Canadian coffee drinkers prefer flavoured coffee, and most of these sweetened beverages are consumed by those aged 18-34.[3]
As a result, there’s a growing demand for innovative flavourings in the beverage industry. Canterbury’s beverage experts have identified almond as one of the key flavours consumers are seeking. The use of almond in coffee has increased by 11% year over year and has been ranked among the top 20 emerging flavours over the past three years.[4]
Consumers are increasingly drawn to almond-flavoured products for their unique taste, especially when paired with coffee. Notably, almond lattes have seen a 17% rise in popularity year over year.
Trend essentials: Torani Almond Syrup, Vanilla Almond Latte.
[3] Canadian Coffee Drinking Trends June 2023 Report
[4] Technomic Ignite Menu national food trends data – Q2 2023
A Fresh Take on a Classic
Despite inflation and financial pressures, young Canadians are still eager to treat themselves at cafes.[5] They seek unique beverage experiences with diverse flavours. One flavour making waves is apple. While traditionally popular, Canterbury’s beverage experts have noticed apple being used in creative new ways. As one of the top 20 fastest-growing flavours over the past three years[6], consumers are looking for fresh twists on this classic taste. Try pairing apple with white chocolate, incorporating it into tea, or enjoying it as a cider.
Trend essentials: Four O’Clock Apple Crumble Tea, Caramel Apple Tea Latte, White Chocolate Cider, Cinnamon Vanilla Cider, and Pearson’s Hot Apple Cider Concentrate.
[5] Share of cups Dig Insights – June 2023
[6] Kerry Marketing Insights Taste Program 2023.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Introducing new flavours like brown sugar cinnamon is an easy way to set your café apart and draw in customers. Brown sugar, combined with the warm spice of cinnamon, creates a cozy, irresistible combination that’s perfect for fall.
This pairing is versatile enough to enhance a variety of beverages, from lattes to cold brews to teas, offering a comforting and indulgent beverage that’s sure to delight your customers.
Trend essentials: Torani Brown Sugar Cinnamon, Cinnamon Dolce Cold Brew, Oatmeal Cookie Hot Chocolate.
Salty Secrets
Although salt is typically used in savoury dishes, it can also improve sweet drinks. Think salt-rimmed Margarita glasses, or decadent salted caramel milkshakes.
Adding a pinch of salt to a drink can balance its sweetness and amplify other flavours. For instance, salted caramel has become a customer favourite, and among the top 15 flavours for the past five years, proving that consumers appreciate this technique for adding depth and complexity to specialty beverages.
Trend essentials: Torani Salted Caramel, Salted Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, Salty Bacon and Caramel Hot Chocolate.
For more innovative beverage ideas, explore Canterbury Coffee’s Drink Recipes Page. If you’re looking for a personalized menu experience, reach out to Canterbury’s Beverage Solution Providers.