Let’s face it—fall has cornered the market on seasonal flavors.
As soon as that first leaf hits the ground, the world goes all in on pumpkin-spiced cinnamon this and apple cider clove that.
But how did these beloved flavors become the ultimate taste of autumn? This is the burning question of the day.
Lucky for you, we’re about to dig into the delicious history behind fall’s favorite flavors.
1. Pumpkin Spice: From Medicinal Roots to Latte Fame
Pumpkin spice might be the king of fall, but it worked its way up from humble beginnings.
Long before Starbucks turned it into a global phenomenon, Native Americans used pumpkins in soups, stews, and pies. But the blend of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—was originally used in medieval Europe for baking and medicinal purposes to soothe digestion.
Then in 2003, Starbucks waved its magic wand and introduced the pumpkin spice latte. It was supposed to be a limited-time thing, but people went wild for it. Now, you can find pumpkin spice in just about anything—candles, cereal, even dog treats.
Maybe it’s been too played out?
2. Apple Cider: The Colonial Classic
There’s a reason apple cider is a fall staple—it’s been around forever.
Back in colonial America, apples were more popular than showers. They were easier to grow than grains, and making cider was a smart way to preserve the harvest. The result? Hard cider became a mealtime staple. Water wasn’t always reliable, but cider? Always dependable.
Fast forward to the 19th century, when the temperance movement pushed for non-alcoholic beverages. Boo!
Enter the sweet, spiced apple cider we know and love today. Now, it’s synonymous with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and cozy nights by the fire.
3. Cinnamon and Cloves: Spices That Traveled the World
These warm spices didn’t just show up on our doorstep, but had Amazon Prime been around, they would have.
Cinnamon and cloves made their way from Asia to Europe through trade routes, where they became prized (and pricey) ingredients in everything from savory stews to sweet pastries. In fact, during the Middle Ages, spices were so valuable they were sometimes used as currency.
Today, they’re the foundation of so many fall treats, like spiced cookies, mulled cider, and cinnamon rolls. And let’s be honest—nothing says fall like the scent of cinnamon filling your home or neither Chicago baseball team being in the playoffs.
Fall flavors aren’t just tasty; they’re steeped in history and tradition. From the pumpkin spice craze to apple cider’s colonial roots and the ancient trade routes that brought us cinnamon and cloves, these flavors connect us to the past while helping us savor the present.
🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT (EXCLUSIVE) 🚨
Hot off the presses, we’ve got a brand-spanking new gift basket for you: our BFB (Big Friendly Basket). Built in a reusable crate, this package is loaded with flavor and fun, including, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Smash chocolate waffle cone, Large fig spread, Large water crackers, Double stuffed olives, Bruschetta, Wine cheese, Cheese bar, Large Lillie Q’s buttermilk sweet onion chips, Madeleines, Almonds, Cashews, Honey bourbon pecans,
Bahlsen cookies, and Destrooper cookies.
And that’s only half of it.
So many fall flavors, so little time. Enjoy!
About BasketWorks
BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!
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