Starbucks reveals Pumpkin Spice Latte release date and fall menu
As we approach the end of summer, Starbucks fans are eagerly anticipating the return of the beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte. The coffee chain has announced that the iconic drink will be making its comeback on August 26th, slightly later than last year but still earlier than in previous years. This year, Starbucks is embracing the fall season ahead of schedule, with the official start of autumn not until September 22nd.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte is a seasonal favorite made with espresso, milk, Pumpkin Spice Syrup, and whipped cream, topped with a sprinkling of pumpkin pie spice. Since 2015, Starbucks has even included real pumpkin in the recipe, adding to the authentic fall flavor of the drink.
The return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte marks a critical moment for Starbucks, as the company works to attract customers back to its stores following a period of stagnant growth. With same-store sales in the U.S. declining by 2% last year, Starbucks is pulling out all the stops to revitalize its business. According to Starbucks global chief brand officer Tressie Leiberman, the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte and other fall menu items serve as “cultural touchstones that spark connection, nostalgia, and excitement.”
In addition to the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Starbucks will be bringing back other fall-inspired drinks such as the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. A new addition to the fall menu this year is the Pecan Cortado, described as a blend of fall flavors with bold espresso. Starbucks is also introducing a new fall menu item, the Italian Sausage Egg Bites.
The launch of the new fall menu coincides with CEO Brian Niccol’s “Back to Starbucks” campaign, aimed at increasing foot traffic in stores and boosting sales. The Pumpkin Spice Latte, a perennial favorite, may not single-handedly turn around Starbucks’ fortunes, but it is sure to be a crowd pleaser and revenue generator.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte has come a long way since its introduction in 2003. Created after an extensive brainstorming session to develop Starbucks’ first fall beverage, the drink has become a seasonal sensation, with hundreds of millions sold since its debut over 20 years ago. Originally considered for the name “fall harvest latte,” the drink was renamed the Pumpkin Spice Latte to highlight the importance of spices in bringing out the pumpkin flavor.
The popularity of the Pumpkin Spice Latte has even led to the addition of “pumpkin spice” in the dictionary by Merriam-Webster in 2022. Other chains like Dunkin’ and McDonald’s have also jumped on the pumpkin craze, introducing their own pumpkin-inspired beverages in subsequent years. Mentions of pumpkin spice on U.S. menus have seen a significant increase over the years, indicating the enduring appeal of this seasonal flavor.
As we eagerly await the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte and other fall menu items at Starbucks, it’s clear that the seasonal drink has become a beloved tradition for many coffee lovers. Whether you’re a fan of the classic PSL or eager to try new fall flavors, Starbucks’ fall menu is sure to delight customers looking to embrace the autumn season.
