It’s that time of year again when everyone rushes to their nearest Starbucks to order the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte to embrace the fall spirit. Maybe I’m growing up, but this year the Starbucks fall beverages and treats just don’t put me in the autumn mood as much as they used to.
To get the worst out of the way, the Iced Apple Crisp Macchiato tastes like a tire.
Yes. I said it; a tire. There is no genuine apple flavor to make it taste good. Imagine you’re drinking an apple scented candle, with the burnt wicks included. Great to smell, not to eat. So, if you’d like to avoid the taste of candle or tire, I’d steer clear of this one.
The Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew has the strong, smooth, bold flavor of cold brew with the added essence of fall. While the pumpkin flavor could be a little stronger, this is one of the better fall beverages Starbucks offers. If you don’t like the strong taste of coffee, I would recommend having them add a pump or two of vanilla to help balance it out.
The Caramel Apple Spice cider-warm-deliciousness is a 10 out of 10. If you enjoy apple cider, this is an elevated version. This steamed apple juice infused with Cinnamon-Dolce makes my heart do a little happy dance and savor the pleasantries of autumn with every sip.
Now, the tried and true Pumpkin Spice Latte is just … not my favorite. *gasp*
I wish rather than sprinkling Pumpkin Spice there was an actual syrup or sauce that would imitate the fall flavor I’m looking for, because while it tastes good, the texture of the Pumpkin Spice usually steers me away from ordering this.
That being said, I recently asked a Starbucks barista for a “fun fall twist,” and she came through; she presented me with a grande iced latte with one pump Pumpkin Spice and one pump Toffee Nut with caramel drizzle on top and it was *chefs kiss.* It’s the perfect iced latte that comforts you with warm and fuzzy vibes.
I miss the Salted Caramel Mocha flavor. Whether it be in latte form or frappuccino, this flavor brought me the purest joy in life. I wish this was still available.
Starbucks currently also has a couple fall bakery items that are worth the hype if you have a SUPER sweet tooth. The Pumpkin Scone tastes like a sweet bite of cinnamon and nutmeg, but lacks pumpkin flavor. The glaze on top adds another level of cavity-level sweetness. It’s a good scone, but it’s extremely sweet. You’ve been warned.
The Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin is decadent and has a nice balance between sweet and savory. The pumpkin muffin has a good spice that is balanced out with the cream cheese. Overall, this may be one of my favorite items on the menu regardless of season.
I hope my insights on the Starbucks fall menu inspired you to try something new, validated your thoughts on the beverages or treats, or even helped you know what to steer clear of.