We barely had a summer, right?

But autumn is finally here, and TBH, we’re quite pleased about it. The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and the pumpkin spice lattes are flowing.

And let’s not forget about all the delicious seasonal treats that are now available. From luscious candles to Halloween decor, naughty breakfasts to cosy lunches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get your autumn fix, look no further…

Light a candle

A delicious candle offers instant comfort on a rainy day. And one Irish brand’s cold-weather offering has its own dedicated fanbase.

Bread and Weather’s Cardamom Spruce delivers cosy vibes in one strike of a match.

“There is something so well rounded about this blend that I always want to describe it as ‘buttery’, which doesn’t make sense but maybe will make sense to you when you smell it.” said candle maker Ella Kennedy, who creates her gorgeous natural range in a little barn studio in Co. Wicklow.

“It’s got the comforting feel of butterscotch, or buttery soft leather.”

Bread and Weather’s Cardamom Spruce is €69 here.

Style your space, but make it spooky

Over at Interiosity in Douglas, they’ve just unveiled a sophisticated take on Halloween decor.

Ideal for those of us who like to stretch the season for as long as possible, the shelves are heaving with understated pieces that capture the essence of Halloween without the usual theatrics. “Elegance meets a subtle hint of the spooky.” is how they put it.

We approve.

You’ll find Interiosity at St.Patricks Woollen Mills, Douglas. 

Buy yourself a beignet

Traditionally served with powdered sugar, but really tasty with maple syrup too, beignets are a staple on the all-day menu at New Orleans-inspired daytime hotspot Bayou on MacCurtain Street.

And now that swimming togs season is over, autumn is a good time to get stuck in with wild abandon.

The restaurant is the realisation of a dream for foodie couple Kate Crawford, from Arkansas and her husband Josh Crawford, the third generation of the Cork chip shop family behind the famous KC & Son & Sons, in Douglas and Bayou has been mobbed by delighted diners.

Their meaty take on a muffuletta is *chef’s kiss* too.

Check out their opening hours here. 

(Pumpkin) Spice up your life 

It’s finally pumpkin spice season, and you can now create your seasonal favourite latte at home with Califia Farms Pumpkin Spice Latte, back on shelves for a limited time only.

This plant-based seasonal exclusive is the perfect way to sip into cosy jumper weather; a blend of smooth coffee, creamy almond, real pumpkin puree and the warm spices of nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger.

Just pour it over ice; it’s dairy-free, soy-free and made entirely with simple, plant-based ingredients, including 100% arabica coffee beans.

Califia Farms Pumpkin Spice Latte is currently €2.50 (usually €3.89) from Dunnes Stores and SuperValu. 

Eat Sunday brunch al fresco

While the weather is surely turning, we do get the odd wash of warm autumn sunshine in late September and October.

Grab a cosy jumper and book a table on a pretty terrace for a luxuriously long Sunday brunch.

Head for Lea’s at The Gluckman, nestled in the leafy ground of University College Cork, for a heaping plate of Hong Kong French Toast sandwiches with Nutella and lashings of hot coffee.

Bookings can be made in advance over here.