* Pumpkin spice not included *

As the crisp autumn air sets in, there's nothing better than enjoying some warm, comforting food and drink. Here are three simple recipes with autumnal flavours, perfect for students or anyone looking to cosy up during the colder months. These recipes are in UK measurements and will make your autumn days that much more delicious!

1. Pumpkin spice latte

No autumn recipe list would be complete without a Pumpkin Spice Latte! This homemade version is perfect for keeping warm and embracing the autumn vibes without having to head to a coffee shop.

Ingredients

• 240ml whole milk (or plant-based milk)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
• 1 tbsp sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp pumpkin spice mix (or use a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves)
• 60ml strong brewed coffee or espresso
• Whipped cream (optional)

Method

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, pumpkin purée, sugar, and pumpkin spice mix over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is hot, but don’t let it boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and brewed coffee.
3. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice, if desired. Enjoy your cosy autumn drink!

2. Butternut squash soup

This simple butternut squash soup is hearty and flavourful, perfect for chilly autumn evenings. It’s easy to make, affordable, and can be stored for a few days, making it an ideal recipe for students.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (around 900g), peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 750ml vegetable stock
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess

Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, along with the vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
3. Use a hand blender to purée the soup until smooth. Add the nutmeg and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in some cream or coconut milk for extra richness, if desired. Serve with warm bread for a cosy meal.

3. Apple and cinnamon 👻rumble

There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen. This simple apple crumble is perfect for autumn and can be whipped up with just a few basic ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 large cooking apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 150g plain flour
• 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 50g demerara sugar (or brown sugar)

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4). In a bowl, toss the apple slices with the caster sugar and cinnamon, then transfer them to a baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, rub the chilled butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the demerara sugar.
3. Scatter the crumble mixture over the apples, ensuring it covers them evenly.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Serve with custard or ice cream for a classic autumn dessert.

These three cosy recipes are easy to make and guaranteed to bring warmth to any chilly autumn day. Whether you're sipping on a homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte, enjoying a bowl of butternut squash soup, or tucking into a comforting apple crumble, you’re sure to feel snug and satisfied!