When you think of fall does your mind immediately go to pumpkin spice?  That is a good one, but other classic fall flavors can get you into the fall spirit, no pumpkin required.

 

1. Salted Caramel

Even though Starbucks has discontinued their fan-favorite salted caramel mocha, this flavor still holds up as a top fall option. The deep, rich flavors of caramel are accented with a hint of sea salt in this decadent flavor that pairs well with apples, ice cream, or brownies. You can make a simple salted caramel sauce to drizzle on just about any dish, or take the flavors to the next level with salted caramel custard.

2. Maple

If the first thing that comes to mind when you think of maple is pancakes, think again because maple isn’t only good for breakfast. Of course, everyone loves sticky maple syrup on pancakes and waffles, and even coffee shops are getting on board with new maple lattes, but this flavor can do so much more this fall. Sweet maple flavor can be used in desserts like maple buttercream frosting, maple cookies, and even pumpkin pie, but it’s just as tasty on savory foods like maple bacon, maple-glazed salmon, and maple and chipotle chicken wings.

3. Bourbon

Bourbon’s flavor profile is filled with some of our favorite fall flavors: vanilla, oak, and caramel. And while a bourbon neat or a hot toddy cocktail might be up your alley, you can also use bourbon in some tasty fall recipes. Add bourbon to pecan pie, candy, and bourbon chicken for some flavorful whiskey-infused food.

4. Brown Butter

Brown butter is butter that is cooked long enough to turn the milk solids brown, and thanks to this technique, it produces a deep, nutty flavor. Brown butter can add a rich, robust flavor to desserts, like cookies and icing, as well as savory dishes, like fish and vegetables. Normally when brown butter is made into a savory sauce for vegetables, pasta, or fish additional herbs, such as sage or tarragon, or garlic are added.