Get inspired by the sweet and rich flavours of this spooky season

Halloween is rapidly approaching and as we all know, it is all about scary costumes as well as sweets, chocolate, and candies. As we embrace the atmosphere of this spooky season, we dive deeper into the evolution and flavours of Halloween beers.

Beer has long been a part of the festivities during this time of year. The origins of Halloween, the progression of brewing traditions, and the creativity of modern crafters are all entwined in the history of Halloween beers.   Pumpkins were widely available in the American colonies, and the first settlers exploited them as a source of fermentable sugars for brewing. As a result, pumpkin beer was developed, which has come to represent Halloween and it is believed that during this time pumpkin beer gatherings were held.

Craft brewers started experimenting with flavours and ingredients to produce special seasonal brews that captured the essence of autumn and Halloween. Dark, rich stouts and porters as well as spiced and pumpkin ales have become increasingly popular as Halloween beers.  If you want to celebrate Halloween and simultaneously practising your homebrewing skills, don't hesitate to try our limited Halloween edition, the Scream Stout Beer kit!

When brewing your own Halloween beer, you have the freedom to add your own choice of flavours that embody the spirit of the season. As the malts and hops you select alter the flavour of your Halloween beer, make sure they fit the style and theme of the beer. Here are some popular flavours and ingredients to consider while brewing your Halloween beer: 

•  Pumpkin: Pumpkin beers are a seasonal favourite, which are typically brewed with pumpkin puree and seasonal spices.  
• Spices: Many Halloween beer styles rely heavily on spices. To generate a warm and aromatic profile, use spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. These spices can be added directly to the boil or during fermentation.  
• Chocolate malt: Offers your brew a roasted, chocolatey flavour reminiscent of Halloween sweets if you are going for a darker beer like a Stout or Porter.  
• Caramel malt: Caramel and toffee flavours from caramel malts can add richness and complexity to your Halloween beer.   
• Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup as a fermentable sugar in your recipe for a touch of sweetness and seasonal flavour.  
• Orange peel can lend a delicate zesty aroma to your beer, making it ideal for Halloween-themed brews.