Sure, I like this time of year because of the music, and the upcoming holidays, and the baking. But there are two other reasons I really, really like this time of year.
Reason #1: Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha
I enjoy the occasional Pumpkin Spice Latte during the fall, but to be honest, the drink that draws me to Starbucks again and again is their Peppermint Mocha. And yes, I know that you can get them year round, but there’s something special about a Peppermint Mocha sipped from their seasonal red cup, when there’s a little chill in the air. I have to exercise tremendous self-control in order to not visit the Starbucks drive through every single day.
(When I am successful in exercising said self-control, I compensate by using Coffee-Mate’s Peppermint Mocha creamer at home, which also makes an appearance at this time of year. It’s not exactly the same, but it’s still pretty good.)
(Update!! I just saw that Coffee-Mate tweeted that they’ll be offering Peppermint Mocha creamer all year long. Hm… That could be dangerous.)
Reason #2: Panera’s Cranberry Walnut Bagel (with Honey Walnut Cream Cheese, of course)
It’s true, I’m always interested in getting a bagel. I never tire of them. In fact, I never tire of getting the same old thing at Panera:
“Whole Grain Bagel, just sliced, with Honey Walnut Cream Cheese, and a medium coffee, please.”
BUT…
During November and December, Panera makes the most yummy bagel ever, at least in my book. The Cranberry Walnut Bagel. I love it. In fact, as I type this post, I’m sitting at Panera, having just eaten one. And there’s a little voice inside me saying, “You need another one. Go ahead. You can skip lunch. Have another bagel. But they’re only here for a few more weeks. Don’t let this opportunity slip away.”
I’m doing my best to quell that dangerous little voice…but it is tempting.
With two such scrumptious options only minutes from my home, it’s hard to keep myself from coming up with some “reason” that I “need” to be out and about around breakfast time every morning. Good thing January does not tempt me in this way. If I can only make it until then without too much over-indulgence.
What about you? Are you a fan of these holiday-time treats? Or is there another seasonal offering (this season or any other) that tempts you?
Ha ha, cute post! I love the Pumpkin Spice Latte and have been known to get the frappe as well, depending on the weather. Delicious!!
I was hooked on Starbuck’s dark chocolate cinnamon bread for a while. And I do like those peppermint mochas – thanks for the creamer tip!!
So what was the verdict — did you indulge??
I did not — I resisted! But I’m sure I’ll be back at Panera before long…getting another one.
oo I also love the peppermint mocha! I think hot chocolate and tea around the house
. I also like to bake all sorts of yummy cookies 
have you tried the new Carmel Brulee ?
I did this morning … extra hot ,add a shot & light whip
Oh, I didn’t even know that one existed. I’ll have to give it a try.
Oh, that is dangerous to have the Peppermint Mocha on the shelves all year long! My absolute favorite treat of the season, however, is Dairy Queen’s Pumpkin Pie Blizzard. It’s heaven in a cup. They used to have a pumpkin softserve years ago, but unfortunately that’s long gone.
Why are you BLOGGING about these things!? Don’t you know how hard I am trying to avoid going to Starbucks on a daily basis!? You are no help whatsoever. Poo to you!
(Eggnog latte, anyone?)
The peppermint mocha at Starbucks is a huge favorite…. I like to pretend it’s not available the rest of the year because it’s more special to only have it in Nov/Dec…….
another favorite is Chik-fil-a’s Peppermint CHoco chip milkshake – absolutely scrumptious.
I luuuuuuurve peppermint mochas at Starbucks – it’s one of the things that tells me the holidays are here. I don’t believe we can get them year-round in Canada. I haven’t tried the Creme Brulee one yet, just noticed it the other day.
And sadly, Canada doesn’t have Panera and I usually only visit them in the summer when we go to Minnesota, so I’ve never gotten to sample their holiday offerings.
Although I would probably weigh 800 pounds if there was a Panera nearby!
I confess I also get excited when grocery stores stock up the aisles with holiday candy. It’s not like it’s Godiva or anything, but the packaging and the once-a-yearness makes me happy.
You pegged my seasonal favorites. These are just about the ONLY reasons why I look forward to winter!!