Fall decorating starts early in this house. I try to at least wait until Labor Day weekend, but once again, the fall tote came out of storage August 30th. I’m not sorry about it. Starbucks released their infamous pumpkin spice latte on the 28th. Whether you like it or not, fall is coming, and people rejoice for it!
Now, I am not too big of a fan of the PSL from Starbucks. One reason is because I find it too sweet. Sure, it’s a nice treat for myself, I have admittedly had my first and probably only tall PSL of the season. And the second reason? A tall is so expensive! I guess I don’t have the rich taste. No diss to Starbucks or anyone who is a Starbucks enthusiast, but I much prefer supporting some of our amazing, local coffee shops!
Anyway, the main reason behind this post is to give my review on the Nutpods pumpkin spice creamer. I just recently learned about Nutpods. You may be thinking nut what?? Those of you who don’t believe in nut milks, are probably rolling your eyes. Nutpods are a plant-based creamer. Unsweetened and dairy-free. So this is extremely friendly for anyone doing the Whole 30 or someone trying to eat a more plant based diet. Heck, even if you aren’t following any type of specific “diet” if you need to live a dairy free life, any of their product flavors would be for you!
I, personally, have a dairy intolerance. I didn’t grow up like this, I could drink milk like it was going out of style, and eat yogurt pretty much every morning. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Then I hit my 20’s and my stomach began to hate me when consuming too much dairy. This was a very sad realization. As a Wisconsin girl, you will NEVER be able to remove dairy 100% from my diet. I will happily suffer the consequences when it comes to cheese and ice cream! But when it comes to creamers, I have switched over to primary plant-based creamers. I also enjoy using coconut milk, almond milk & cashew milk.
My goal this fall is to make my own version of a pumpkin spice latte. I have a batch of cold brew in my fridge so this was perfect timing for my Nutpod order to come in (I ordered via Amazon because PRIME!). The first cup I tried was with my cold brew, cold. I added in the creamer and added in some additional almond milk with it as well as some sugar-free syrup. I can’t say I really tasted the pumpkin spice flavor. I thought maybe it was because I added the almond milk in with it and possibly because it was cold coffee.
My second attempt began by heating up my cold brew, adding in 2 tablespoons of the creamer and sugar free vanilla syrup. Still, not too much of a pumpkin taste. Needless to say I was a bit disappointed it didn’t give me more flavor, however, I feel like it is a nice addition as a creamer. What I will try and find is a sugar free pumpkin syrup to add to it as well as add in some cinnamon!
Overall, if you’re looking for a definite pumpkin spice flavor, don’t expect it. It’s not going to rock your taste buds and make you feel like you’re drinking Starbucks. But, if you’re looking for something seasonal and healthier, I would say give it a shot. I bought a 4 pack from Amazon & feel that it’s a reasonable price. If you’re local to La Crosse, WI, they do carry Nutpods brand at the People’s Food Co-op (however, I’m not sure if the pumpkin spice flavor is available or not).
So, my quest to make the best pumpkin spice drink for Fall 2018 is still in progress. If you try this product out and figure out a great combination, let me know, I’d love to try it out! Or, if you already have a go to recipe, and would be willing to share, shoot me a message or comment below!