It is officially pumpkin spice season, and brands are already releasing pumpkin spice flavors before the first autumn leaves fall. Fall is a beloved season for many people. Who doesn't like the first pumpkin spiced coffee or doughnut of the season? Customers not only love the seasonal menu choices, but franchise owners benefit from increased traffic and revenue. Everything is pumpkin-inspired, from lattes to pies, and we've compiled a list of the best of them right here.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Starbucks
For many customers, the reintroduction of Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) signals the unofficial beginning of the fall. The legendary beverage has influenced the coffee industry, pop culture, and everything in between since its release in 2003 and for the past 20 years. The acclaimed taste combination of genuine pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove is added to steamed milk and Starbucks Signature Espresso in this handmade beverage. The PSL, which comes in hot, iced, and blended versions, is topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices.
Pumpkin Spice Sandwich Cookies: Oreo
Pumpkin spice Oreos initially appeared in 2014, marketed as a seasonal fall cookie. They differ from regular Oreos in that they include a golden wafer biscuit instead of a chocolate cookie and pumpkin spice crème instead of vanilla. This fairly inconsistently stocked cookie has returned to the market with a reportedly revised recipe after inexplicably disappearing from the shelves. Some predict that it will be really tasty.
Fall Menu: Dunkin'
Dunkin’ rolled out its pumpkin spice menu before the colors of the leaves began to change. Since August 16, fans have been enjoying the doughnut and coffee brand’s pumpkin spice signature latte, nutty pumpkin coffee, pumpkin swirl, pumpkin munchkins, pumpkin doughnut and pumpkin muffin. The early release of Dunkin's pumpkin spice menu has created excitement among fans who eagerly anticipate the return of their favorite seasonal treats. With a wide variety of pumpkin-flavored options to choose from, Dunkin' is sure to satisfy cravings for all things autumnal.
Pumpkin Doughnuts: Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme has introduced a selection of doughnuts that are combined, filled, dusted, and topped with more pumpkin spice. These doughnuts include the brand-new Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Swirl Doughnut and Pumpkin Spice Maple Pecan Doughnut. Fans of pumpkin spice will "fall" the hardest for four distinct doughnut flavors of their favorite spice for a brief period at participating stores.
Pumpkin Drinks: Caribou Coffee
There are 15 various pumpkin-themed beverages available at Caribou Coffee, including the new Pumpkin Espresso Shaker, which combines fresh espresso and puréed pumpkin. Other pumpkin-themed drinks include the Pumpkin Iced Crafted Press and the Pumpkin White Mocha. The Pumpkin Cake Pop and Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin are available as snacks.
Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Pillsbury Grands
When it comes to store-bought cinnamon rolls, The Dough Boy rules. These limited-edition rolls include icing that is spiced with pumpkin and a filling that has hints of pumpkin spice. Their rolls are consistently the fluffiest and have rich, heavy frostings that can stand up to a pastry that has just come out of the oven. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence or a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to satisfy your pumpkin cravings.
Pumpkin Pie Blizzard: Dairy Queen
The pumpkin pie Blizzard will once again be the flavor of the month for September at the ice cream shop. The Pumpkin Pie Blizzard is a taste of the Thanksgiving favorite in a cup, with actual pumpkin pie chunks mixed with the chain's traditional vanilla soft serve ice cream, topped with whipped cream and a touch of delightful nutmeg. This seasonal treat is a perfect way to welcome the fall season and enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie. The combination of creamy ice cream, chunks of pumpkin pie, and a hint of nutmeg creates a deliciously nostalgic dessert that will leave you craving more.
Pumpkin Breakfast: IHOP
Nothing beats a breakfast filled with pumpkin on a crisp fall morning. Customers can grab a pumpkin spice pancake combo from the pancake shop, which includes eggs, hash browns, and breakfast meat. They can also get a pumpkin spice cold foam cold brew to go with their meal. The warm and fluffy pumpkin spice pancakes at IHOP are the perfect way to start your day, with their irresistible aroma and delightful taste. Indulge in the seasonal flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg as you savor each bite. And don't forget to top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pumpkin Cheesecake: Cheesecake Factory
Starting September 1, the seasonal creamy pumpkin and pumpkin pecan cheesecake with a layer of pecan pie on top will be available. The first option is a graham cracker crust with whipped cream on top that contains cooked pumpkin inside of it. The alternative consists of a pecan pie with a layer of pumpkin cheesecake, caramel, and more nuts on a pastry crust.
Pumpkin Smoothies: Smoothie King
Smoothie King offers not one, two, or three but five different pumpkin smoothies. All of the fall menu items that feature actual pumpkin include the pumpkin power meal, pumpkin slim-n-trim, pumpkin vegan, pumpkin coffee high protein, and pumpkin d-lite. These pumpkin smoothies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each smoothie is carefully crafted to provide a unique flavor profile and cater to different dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for a filling meal replacement or a guilt-free treat, Smoothie King has you covered with their wide range of pumpkin smoothie options.