Holiday Treats and Sweets — REFINE Magazine

By: Nuri Piera Webb

I always attempt to perfect a chai, matcha, or regular latte in my own kitchen but somehow it doesn’t compare to the drinks you get from cafes. They must have a secret recipe or just a special touch that I lack. I am sure many can relate, and purchasing a coffee or two once in a while doesn’t hurt when you're in need of an excuse to get out of the house; even if it is just for a moment.

Here in Philadelphia, there are so many options for a seasonal treat, even where you least expect it. Imagine a nice warm drink in one hand and a toasted little treat in the other; to me, that sounds like a sweet little escape from the reality of finals and study guides. .

Our first stop: ReAnimator coffee, located in both, Northern Liberties or South Philly, is one of my favorite places in the area. They recently introduced a brand new latte for the holidays.

Candy Cane Mocha

This is a combination of peppermint and dark chocolate. It gives off a very fresh flavor that lasts long enough for you to savor the taste. You can even add honey to make it a bit sweeter.

Holiday Latte

A hot latte with rosemary, juniper berries, citrus peel, cardamom pods in brown sugar. I know it is a mouthful but it certainly filled my mouth with pure delight and warmth. As ReAnimator Coffee says, it “tastes like a Christmas Tree in the best way,” and I couldn’t agree more.

*They also have a GoFundMe page on their website, dedicated to Walter Wallace Jr.

You must pair a drink with a treat, and Hello Donuts has just the thing. Go on over to try a shop serving not only donuts but fritters, savories, tote bags, and more.

2557 Amber Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19125

Maple Bourbon Donut

Do we have any vegans out there? Cause this one's for you! A yummy, warm donut glazed with maple syrup and also vegan? Could this get any better? And if you want a drink from Hello Donuts instead of a treat, try their spiced maple latte with milk of your choice.

Miso Caramel Donut

Do you pronounce it [caramel] or [caramol]? No matter how you pronounce it, it's the delicious taste that matters. Hello’s got a donut with miso paste, which is a traditional Japanese seasoning, and caramel drizzle. It's a perfect toasty desert with a sweet sensation to reward yourself for making it through this unrelenting semester.

Seattle originated coffee shop, Starbucks, is a very renowned yet evolving coffee shop in the sense that they always release new drinks. You walk in and see the colorful red and green poster boards and advertisements for the holiday beverages. Here are just a few of their seasonal delights.

1128 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Chestnut Praline Sleigh Brulee Latte

“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, jack frost nipping at your nose”; The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole is what comes to mind when I tried this. Brewed espresso, steamed milk, and rich caramel brulee sauce blend together, and whipped cream sprinkled with even more caramel brulee tops it all off. This is the definition of sweetness overload, so if you don’t like sweets this is not the drink for you.

Hot Matcha Latte with Peppermint Syrup

Hot or iced, this is my go-to drink all year round. Matcha is a green tea powder that you could either really love or absolutely hate. Mixed with milk [I recommend oatmilk], I describe it as, herby and sweet, and, with the addition of the peppermint syrup, you get a minty refresher reminiscent of the crisp wind and chilling snowfall during the holiday season.

Moving on to—drum roll please—a fan favorite in Philadelphia, Saxby’s; the cutest coffee shop chain found all over the city. Their variety of coffees, teas, and smoothies are to die for, and I haven’t gotten enough of their kind messages and warm smiles. Here are two recommended drinks.

11th & Locust, 236 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Caramel Apple Cider

Although apple cider is a fall favorite, why not continue drinking it since our fall was cut a little short [Global warming, am I right?]. Saxbys’ even sends a little message about it, “Cue all the fall feels. Hot spiced cider, caramel swirl, cloud of whipped cream.” Definitely recommend this beverage for the non-coffee drinkers who are looking to warm up.

Milk and Honey Cold Brew

Personally, I find it very difficult to drink straight coffee, but this concoction is the perfect combination of bitter and sweet. This simple cold brew with some milk and a little bit of honey to soften it is a simple yet delicious mixture.

There are vast amounts of local places with amazing coffee and treats that range in prices. I suggest giving one of these places a try because you never know where they may be some hidden gems in the city of brotherly love.

If you are planning on staying in, follow @carissareese1 on TikTok for Starbucks recipes to make at home. Don’t forget to take care of yourself and get some fresh air.

Xoxo, your favorite coffee and treat reviewer, Nuri.