As the summer months come to a close, coffee lovers and fans of fall flavors alike begin to eagerly anticipate the return of a beloved seasonal staple: Pumpkin Spice at Starbucks. But is Pumpkin Spice at Starbucks back, and what can we expect from this year’s offerings? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Pumpkin Spice, explore the various ways it’s available at Starbucks, and provide an update on its return.
A Brief History of Pumpkin Spice
Pumpkin Spice, also known as PSL (Pumpkin Spice Latte), has been a mainstay of Starbucks’ fall menu since its introduction in 2003. The brainchild of Peter Dukes, a product developer at Starbucks, Pumpkin Spice was created to evoke the warm, comforting feelings of autumn. The original recipe featured a combination of espresso, steamed milk, and a blend of pumpkin pie spices, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice.
Over the years, Pumpkin Spice has become a cultural phenomenon, with fans eagerly anticipating its return each fall. In 2015, Starbucks introduced a Pumpkin Spice-flavored K-Cup, allowing customers to enjoy the flavor at home. Today, Pumpkin Spice is available in a variety of formats, including lattes, Frappuccinos, and even food items like muffins and scones.
When Does Pumpkin Spice Typically Return to Starbucks?
While the exact date of Pumpkin Spice’s return to Starbucks varies from year to year, it typically becomes available in late August or early September. In recent years, Starbucks has released Pumpkin Spice on the following dates:
- 2022: August 30
- 2021: August 24
- 2020: August 25
- 2019: August 27
It’s worth noting that these dates are subject to change and may vary depending on location. Some Starbucks stores may offer Pumpkin Spice earlier or later than others, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local store for availability.
How to Get Pumpkin Spice Before It’s Officially Released
While Pumpkin Spice typically returns to Starbucks in late August or early September, there are a few ways to get your hands on it before the official release date:
- Starbucks Rewards Members: As a member of the Starbucks Rewards program, you may be eligible to try Pumpkin Spice before it’s officially released. Keep an eye on your email for exclusive offers and early access to new menu items.
- Starbucks Employees: If you know someone who works at Starbucks, you may be able to score a Pumpkin Spice drink before it’s officially released. Employees often get to try new menu items before they’re available to the public.
- Social Media Contests: Follow Starbucks on social media and keep an eye out for contests and giveaways that may offer early access to Pumpkin Spice.
What’s New with Pumpkin Spice This Year?
While we don’t have official word from Starbucks on this year’s Pumpkin Spice offerings, we can make some educated guesses based on past trends. Here are a few things we might expect to see:
- New Pumpkin Spice Flavors: In recent years, Starbucks has introduced new Pumpkin Spice flavors, such as the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and the Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino. We may see new flavors or variations on classic Pumpkin Spice drinks this year.
- Pumpkin Spice Food Items: In addition to drinks, Starbucks often offers a variety of Pumpkin Spice-flavored food items, such as muffins, scones, and cookies. We may see new food items or returning favorites this year.
- Pumpkin Spice Merchandise: Starbucks often releases Pumpkin Spice-themed merchandise, such as mugs, tumblers, and tote bags. We may see new merchandise items this year, featuring the iconic Pumpkin Spice logo.
Pumpkin Spice Nutrition Information
For those watching their diet, it’s worth noting that Pumpkin Spice drinks can be high in calories and sugar. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for a few popular Pumpkin Spice drinks:
| Drink | Calories | Sugar |
| — | — | — |
| Pumpkin Spice Latte ( Grande, 2% milk) | 340 | 40g |
| Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino (Grande, 2% milk) | 420 | 64g |
| Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew (Grande, 2% milk) | 250 | 30g |
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the location and specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
While we don’t have an official release date for Pumpkin Spice at Starbucks, we can expect it to return in late August or early September. With new flavors, food items, and merchandise on the horizon, there’s plenty to get excited about. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Pumpkin Spice or just discovering it, there’s no denying the magic of this beloved fall flavor.
So mark your calendars, set your reminders, and get ready to indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of Pumpkin Spice. It’s almost time to fall in love with fall all over again.
When does Pumpkin Spice typically return to Starbucks?
Pumpkin Spice typically returns to Starbucks in late August, marking the unofficial start of fall. The exact date may vary from year to year, but it usually falls around the last week of August. This allows customers to get a head start on the fall season and enjoy their favorite Pumpkin Spice drinks and treats before the weather cools down.
Starbucks often creates buzz around the return of Pumpkin Spice by releasing teasers and announcements on their social media channels. Fans of the flavor can stay tuned to Starbucks’ official accounts to get the latest updates on the return of Pumpkin Spice and other fall favorites.
What Pumpkin Spice drinks can I expect to see on the Starbucks menu?
The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is the most iconic and popular drink on the Starbucks fall menu. It’s made with espresso, steamed milk, and a blend of pumpkin pie spices, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. Other Pumpkin Spice drinks that may be available include the Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino, Pumpkin Spice Mocha, and Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte.
In addition to these drinks, Starbucks may also offer Pumpkin Spice Refreshers and other fall-themed beverages. The menu items may vary by location and year, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local Starbucks to see what’s available.
Are there any new Pumpkin Spice menu items that I should try?
Starbucks often introduces new Pumpkin Spice menu items each year, so there may be some exciting new options to try. In recent years, they’ve released items like the Pumpkin Spice Cream Cold Brew and the Pumpkin Spice Cookie Crumble Frappuccino. These new items can be a great way to mix up your fall routine and try something different.
Keep an eye on Starbucks’ social media accounts and website to get the latest information on new menu items and promotions. You can also ask your barista for recommendations on the best new Pumpkin Spice drinks and treats to try.
Can I customize my Pumpkin Spice drink to my taste?
Absolutely! Starbucks baristas are happy to customize your Pumpkin Spice drink to your taste preferences. You can ask for modifications like non-fat milk, extra pump of pumpkin spice, or whipped cream on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try adding a different type of milk or flavor syrup to create a unique twist on the classic PSL.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect Pumpkin Spice drink. And if you’re not sure what to try, your barista can offer suggestions and recommendations to help you find the perfect drink.
Are Pumpkin Spice drinks available at all Starbucks locations?
Pumpkin Spice drinks are typically available at most Starbucks locations, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm. Some locations, like those in airports or grocery stores, may not offer the full fall menu. Additionally, some international locations may not offer Pumpkin Spice drinks at all.
If you’re traveling or visiting a new location, it’s a good idea to check the Starbucks website or mobile app to see what menu items are available. You can also use the app to find locations near you and check their hours and availability.
Can I get Pumpkin Spice drinks year-round?
Unfortunately, Pumpkin Spice drinks are typically only available during the fall season, which usually runs from late August to early November. However, some Starbucks locations may offer Pumpkin Spice drinks year-round, or you can try making your own Pumpkin Spice drinks at home using Starbucks’ at-home coffee products.
If you’re craving Pumpkin Spice outside of the fall season, you can also try reaching out to your local Starbucks to see if they offer any off-menu Pumpkin Spice drinks or promotions. Some locations may be willing to whip up a PSL for you, even if it’s not officially on the menu.
How can I make my Pumpkin Spice drink more sustainable?
There are several ways to make your Pumpkin Spice drink more sustainable. One option is to opt for a reusable cup, which can help reduce waste and minimize your environmental impact. You can also ask for your drink to be made with non-dairy milk or without whipped cream to reduce the amount of waste generated.
Additionally, Starbucks offers a variety of sustainable packaging options, including recyclable cups and lids. You can also participate in Starbucks’ cup recycling program, which allows you to recycle your cup and receive a discount on your next drink. By making a few small changes, you can enjoy your Pumpkin Spice drink while also doing your part for the environment.