Starbucks kicks off fall flavor season with PSL return and new items, while Dunkin brings back pumpkin spice
Starbucks is bringing back its Pumpkin Spice Latte on August 26, 2025, as part of its fall menu rollout that same day. The company also reintroduces two other returning drinks and adds two new items to the lineup.
Fall menu highlights at Starbucks on August 26:
– Returning drinks:
– Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) in hot, iced, or blended forms
– Iced pumpkin cream chai
– Pecan crunch oatmilk latte
– New additions:
– Pecan oatmilk cortado
– Italian sausage egg bites
Notes on the new cortado:
– The pecan oatmilk cortado is a new Starbucks beverage built with three ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso and steamed milk. Ristretto shots are more concentrated than standard shots, providing a richer, bolder flavor in a smaller volume. This is a newer execution style for Starbucks, following the introduction of the brown sugar oatmilk cortado earlier this year.
About the PSL:
– The PSL is described by Starbucks as its most popular seasonal beverage. It features real pumpkin flavor and pumpkin-spice notes such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, combined with espresso and steamed milk. It’s available hot, iced, or blended.
Dunkin’s pumpkin spice return:
– Dunkin’s pumpkin spice offerings are back as of August 20, 2025, with the Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte available hot or iced. The article notes that this marks a seasonal return for Dunkin as well, with other new menu items joining the lineup.
What this means for fans:
– The early kickoff to pumpkin spice season at two major coffee chains signals a big focus on comfort-forward flavors and convenient seasonal options as temperatures cool and autumn cravings rise.
– For Starbucks, the inclusion of the pecan oatmilk cortado introduces a nutty, oatmilk-forward variant that diversifies its fall lineup beyond the PSL and chai.
– For Dunkin, the continued emphasis on pumpkin spice reinforces the brand’s staple role in the fall flavor landscape.
Summary:
– Starbucks will start its fall offerings on August 26, led by the return of the PSL and two other favorites, plus two new items: the pecan oatmilk cortado and Italian sausage egg bites.
– Dunkin also brings back pumpkin spice on August 20, with the Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte available hot or iced.
Helpful additions:
– If you’re curious about trying something new, consider the pecan oatmilk cortado for a richer espresso experience with a fall-forward nutty sweetness. It’s a good option for those who want a slightly stronger coffee bite with warm autumn flavors.
– A practical tip before the rush: check your local store’s menu since item availability and preparation style can vary by location and demand during the peak fall season.
Positive take:
– The seasonal offerings give coffee lovers a reason to look forward to fall, with familiar favorites and fresh twists that celebrate the cozy flavors of the season.