Pumpkin Spice Season 2024: When Starbucks and Dunkin’ Will Bring Back Fall Favorites

As summer draws to a close, fans of the iconic pumpkin spice flavor are eagerly awaiting the return of their favorite seasonal treats. Both Starbucks and Dunkin’, two of the biggest names in coffee, are gearing up to launch their fall menus, bringing back beloved classics like the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) and introducing exciting new flavors.

Starbucks: The Home of the Original Pumpkin Spice Latte

Starbucks has been synonymous with pumpkin spice ever since it launched the Pumpkin Spice Latte back in 2003. Over the years, the PSL has grown into a cultural phenomenon, becoming the most popular seasonal drink in Starbucks history. For 2024, Starbucks is expected to release its fall menu, including the PSL, on August 22​.

The Pumpkin Spice Latte combines Starbucks’ signature espresso with steamed milk and the celebrated flavor of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Whether enjoyed hot, iced, or blended, it’s the ultimate fall beverage that has fans counting down the days until its return.

But Starbucks isn’t stopping at the PSL. This year, they are also introducing new fall-themed beverages, such as the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte. This drink is inspired by customer and barista creations, blending spiced chai with pumpkin cream cold foam and a dusting of pumpkin spice​. Additionally, the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso will make its debut, combining Blonde Espresso with apple, cinnamon, and brown sugar, topped with oatmilk for a smooth, autumnal sip​.

Dunkin’: A Contender in the Pumpkin Spice Race

Dunkin’ is another powerhouse in the pumpkin spice arena, with its own lineup of fall favorites. While the exact launch date for Dunkin’s fall menu hasn’t been officially confirmed, it is expected to roll out around mid-August, aligning with previous years​. Dunkin’ typically introduces its seasonal offerings slightly earlier than Starbucks, giving fans an early taste of fall.

Dunkin’s fall menu is likely to feature the return of popular items like the Pumpkin Spice Iced Latte and the Pumpkin Cold Brew, both of which have become customer favorites. Dunkin’ has also been known to add a few surprises each year, so fans can look forward to potential new additions to the menu​.

In addition to beverages, Dunkin’ might also bring back its range of pumpkin-flavored baked goods, such as the Pumpkin Donut and Pumpkin Muffin, providing the perfect pairing for their pumpkin-infused drinks.

The Growing Trend of Early Fall Launches

Both Starbucks and Dunkin’ have been releasing their fall menus earlier and earlier each year, a trend driven by the growing popularity of pumpkin spice flavors. This year, some brands have already kicked off the season. For example, 7-Eleven began offering its pumpkin spice drinks on August 1, including a Pumpkin Spice Coffee and a new Pumpkin Spice Slurpee​.

This shift towards earlier launches is a response to customer demand, as the desire for cozy, autumnal flavors seems to start sooner every year. By mid-August, many consumers are already looking forward to the fall season, making it the perfect time for coffee chains to introduce their seasonal menus.

Why Pumpkin Spice?

The enduring appeal of pumpkin spice lies in its warm, comforting flavor profile. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove evokes a sense of nostalgia, often reminding people of home-baked pies and cozy autumn days. This emotional connection, paired with the seasonal exclusivity of the flavors, creates a strong demand that coffee chains are eager to satisfy.

In fact, the pumpkin spice craze has extended beyond beverages, influencing products across the food and beverage industry. From cereals to candles, the flavor has become a hallmark of fall, with its release signaling the unofficial start of the season.

Conclusion

As the days grow shorter and the weather begins to cool, pumpkin spice season offers a comforting transition into fall. With Starbucks set to release its Pumpkin Spice Latte on August 22 and Dunkin’ likely to follow closely behind, fans won’t have to wait much longer to enjoy their favorite seasonal flavors.

Whether you’re a die-hard PSL fan or prefer Dunkin’s take on the pumpkin spice trend, this year’s fall menus promise to deliver the cozy, nostalgic flavors that have become synonymous with the season.

FAQs

1. When does the Pumpkin Spice Latte usually return to Starbucks?
The Pumpkin Spice Latte typically returns to Starbucks in late August or early September, marking the unofficial start of the fall season.

2. What are the main ingredients in a Pumpkin Spice Latte?
The Pumpkin Spice Latte is made with espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin spice sauce (which includes flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove), and is typically topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice.

3. Is the Pumpkin Spice Latte available all year round?
No, the Pumpkin Spice Latte is a seasonal beverage, usually available from late August through early November, depending on the location and availability.

4. Can the Pumpkin Spice Latte be made with non-dairy milk?
Yes, Starbucks offers several non-dairy milk options, including almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk, which can be substituted in the Pumpkin Spice Latte.

5. Are there any health-conscious alternatives to the traditional Pumpkin Spice Latte?
Yes, customers can customize their Pumpkin Spice Latte by requesting fewer pumps of pumpkin spice sauce, opting for non-dairy milk, or skipping the whipped cream to reduce the calorie content.