I’m a Pumpkin Spice Super Fan and This Editor-Favorite Coffee Brand Makes My Favorite Blend So Far
Even though temperatures where I live in the Northeast are still hanging around the 80s, I’m perfectly content using September as an excuse to kick off the pumpkin spice season. If you’re like me (aka the type of person who wants to make the most of the short window we have to enjoy all things pumpkin- and apple-flavored), that means multiple trips to Trader Joe’s for their beloved fall groceries — and, of course, as much pumpkin spice coffee as I can get.
Although a certified pumpkin spice latte lover, I actually rarely enjoy the famed picks from Starbucks, because both the latte and cold brew have dairy in them. So, it’s a must that my home-brew option is delicious and aromatic enough to satisfy my pumpkin needs. This year, the Grounds & Hounds Pumpkin Spice has become my go-to blend because of its incredibly inviting aroma of spices and smooth taste.
Grounds & Hounds has been an editor-favorite coffee brand ever since our director of commerce, Mark, came across the Sunny Spot Cold Brew Blend that helped him make cafe-worthy cold brew at home. Ever since, we’ve been covering the coffee brand’s many limited-edition launches for occasions such as the Puppy Bowl and St. Patrick’s Day. What makes Grounds & Hounds so special — in addition to their delicious coffee and fun blends — is the fact that a portion of their proceeds go toward animal rescue efforts across the country.
As far as Pumpkin Spice goes, Grounds & Hounds created it to have notes of whipped cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie, and graham cracker for the coziest sip possible. It’s a medium-dark roast, making it a robust, full-bodied cup of coffee that’s still smooth to drink. You can make it in your French press, drip coffee maker, or percolator for the best brew, and like the rest of their coffees, you can choose between whole bean or ground.
I was met with a strong aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin when I first opened the bag, and I was pleased to find that it isn’t lost after brewing. That might not sound like much, but anyone else who also loves this seasonal flavor knows that pumpkin coffees don’t always deliver on taste. This Grounds & Hounds blend, however, retains a spice-forward aroma and flavor after brewing. I like it with the Brown Sugar Oat Creamer from Trader Joe’s for an even more indulgent sip.
Although I’ve tried out many bags of pumpkin coffee over the years, I feel confident saying that the Grounds & Hounds Pumpkin Spice delivers an aroma and taste that is the most like the real deal. I can’t get enough of the cozy spices and smooth flavor. Because it’s a limited-edition blend, you might want to stock up on two or three bags at a time — I know I’m planning on getting another!
Buy: Grounds & Hounds Pumpkin Spice Coffee, $14.99
This post originally appeared on The Kitchn. See it here: I’m a Pumpkin Spice Super Fan and This Editor-Favorite Coffee Brand Makes My Favorite Blend Yet