As we continue to navigate the peak of summer, a familiar flavor is making an unseasonably early appearance across various brands. Mid-August signals the return of pumpkin spice, and with it, a premature whisper of autumn. This year, iconic brands like Krispy Kreme and Starbucks are rolling out their pumpkin spice offerings earlier than ever, turning what is traditionally a fall sensation into a late summer treat.
Krispy Kreme Leads with Lattes and Doughnuts
Krispy Kreme is spearheading the seasonal shift with its Pumpkin Spice Lattes and the beloved Pumpkin Spice Cake Doughnuts, both of which have already made their way into stores. Dave Skena, Krispy Kreme’s global brand officer, expressed his amazement at the early demand for these flavors, stating, “It’s August and we’re all ready for pumpkin spice, somehow.” The brand hints at more seasonal surprises to come, promising to continue “spicing up the season.”
Starbucks and Dunkin’ Dive into the Trend
Not to be outdone, Starbucks has reintroduced its Pumpkin Spice flavored coffees and creamers to grocery shelves nationwide. These products are available for a limited time and offer coffee enthusiasts a taste of fall before the handcrafted beverages hit the cafes.
Similarly, Dunkin’ is not only matching its rivals with traditional offerings but has also introduced a Spiked Pumpkin Spice Iced Latte—a canned beverage with a kick, boasting a 6% alcohol content.
Exclusive Offerings and Expansions
The pumpkin spice craze extends beyond these giants. Tim Hortons and 7-Eleven have also jumped on the bandwagon.
Tim Hortons is currently offering its pumpkin spice products exclusively to rewards members via their app, a promotion that will soon open to all customers. Meanwhile, 7-Eleven has reintroduced its Pumpkin Spice Latte and Coffee, alongside a new Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew. They’ve even crafted a Pumpkin Spice Slurpee, though it’s available in only a select few locations across the United States.
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Beyond Beverages: A Universe of Flavors
The pumpkin spice trend isn’t confined to beverages. Yogurtland has introduced a Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Swirl yogurt, catering to those looking for a creamy dessert option. For coffee lovers who prefer to craft their drinks at home, Coffee mate and International Delight are offering a range of pumpkin spice creamers, including a new Pumpkin Cold Foam Creamer and a zero-sugar option.
The Impact on Market Trends
Pumpkin spice’s appeal continues to influence market trends significantly. Despite a slight dip in retail spending on pumpkin products, the general trend over the past five years shows a significant increase. This enduring popularity has also impacted the craft beer market, with pumpkin beers arriving earlier each year and capturing a growing share of seasonal sales.
Interestingly, the pumpkin spice that has come to define the essence of fall contains no actual pumpkin. Developed by McCormick in 1934, the spice blend was intended to enhance the flavor of canned pumpkin for pies. It consists of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice, proving that sometimes, tradition can evolve in unexpected ways.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffees and Creamers Now Available on Grocery Shelves Nationwide
Starbucks Iced Espresso Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Features: Ready-to-drink beverage inspired by the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte, combining Starbucks Espresso with milk and pumpkin spice flavors.
- Price: $6.99 for a 40 fl oz. bottle.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino Chilled Coffee Drink
- Features: A blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, milk, and arabica coffee in a ready-to-drink format.
- Price: $4.19 for a 13.7 fl oz. bottle.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee (Available in Nespresso for Vertuo, Roast & Ground, and K-Cup® pods)
- Features: Light roast coffee with notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ideal for creating a homemade version of the Pumpkin Spice Latte.
- Price: $11.29 for 8-count Nespresso for Vertuo capsules; $11.99 for an 11-oz. roast & ground bag; $15.49 for a 17-oz. roast & ground bag; K-Cup pods are $11.99 for 10-count, $22.99 for 22-count, $27.49 for 32-count.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate
- Features: Cold brew concentrate with pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg flavors to mix with water for an easy at-home brew.
- Price: $11.99 for a 32 fl oz. bottle.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Flavored Creamer and Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Flavored Non-Dairy Creamer
- Features: Creamers crafted to echo the flavors of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, available in both dairy and non-dairy (almond and oat milk) options.
- Price: $6.19 for a 28 fl oz. bottle.
Starbucks Fall Blend Coffee (Available in Roast & Ground and K-Cup pods)
- Features: Full-bodied blend with spice notes from Sumatra, bright citrus from Africa, and a balance of toasted nuts from Latin American beans.
- Price: Roast & Ground: $11.99 for 10-oz. bag, $15.49 for 17-oz. bag; K-Cup pods: $11.99 for 10-count, $22.99 for 22-count.
New Starbucks Smoked Butterscotch Flavored Coffee (Available in Roast & Ground and K-Cup pods)
- Features: Limited-edition coffee with rich notes of salted brown butter and caramelized sugar.
- Price: $11.99 for 11-oz. roast & ground bag; $11.99 for 10-count K-Cup pods.
