Is It Pumpkin Spice Season Yet? Here's When Fall Drink Menus Return
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Today might be hot and steamy, but all signs are pointing to the start of fall. Okay, maybe we're not quite ready for changing leaves and sweaters yet, but pumpkin spice season? Bring it on!
The craze for all things pumpkin-flavored seems to be starting earlier and earlier every year. (Even despite the record high temperatures in much of the U.S.) But when exactly does pumpkin spice season start? We're uncovering a few clues as to how the unofficial season is determined; plus, when the famous pumpkin spice latte will finally be available at your local coffee chain.
But first: What is pumpkin spice, anyway? You know the sweet smell and the warm autumnal flavor it imparts to your favorite pumpkin desserts, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly what makes up a pumpkin spice blend. Typically, pumpkin spice (or pumpkin pie spice) is a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and ginger. Use it for freshly baked pumpkin spice muffins or add a dash to your favorite bowl of oats—there's nothing cozier!
This classic fall spice blend has been around for ages. (Did you know that McCormick first launched their pumpkin spice blend back in 1934?) But, it wasn't until Starbucks came out with the PSL (pumpkin spice latte) in 2003 that the trend officially took off. More than 20 years later, you can find pumpkin spice just about everywhere—even in the middle of summer.
So, when does pumpkin spice season start?
Though there's no official start date on record, pumpkin spice season tends to begin between late August and September. It typically coincides with the release of Starbuck's fall menu, but you can find pumpkin products on the shelves of your grocery store as early as the first day of August. Remember, fall doesn't begin until September 22 this year, so that's more than a full month in advance.
When do pumpkin spice products go on sale?
You're in luck! Because you can find tons of pumpkin spice products already available starting in August. Whether it's pumpkin-scented candles, pumpkin drinks, or pumpkin snacks, there's plenty of spicy-sweet flavor to go around. According to McCormick's flavor insight report, pumpkin spice has become so popular that it has led to a 40% increase in new products. "Sales of pumpkin spice products in retail totaled more than $802 billion in the year ending July 2023," the report stated.
When does Starbucks release the pumpkin spice latte?
Last year, Starbucks released the pumpkin spice latte on August 24, but early reports have leaked that this year's fall menu is expected to drop on August 22. The update comes from Instagram user, @Markie_Devo, who is credited for his knowledge of off-the-record snack news. According to Devo, the new lineup includes both hot and iced versions of the PSL along with fun new options, like an iced apple crisp cream chai. His sources reportedly come from Starbucks employees, but there hasn't been an official word from the coffee chain yet.
What are the best ways to celebrate pumpkin spice season?
Though some people might find the heat of summer to be too early to start enjoying pumpkin spice anything, others are ready to start embracing fall! If you're eagerly awaiting that Starbucks drop, try making your own PSL right at home—or better yet, you can elevate a tall glass of iced cold brew coffee with pumpkin spice syrup! Then, whip up Ree Drummond's pumpkin spice pancakes or our pumpkin spice latte overnight oats.
Are you ready for pumpkin spice season? 🎃 Let us know in the comments section below!
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