Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday, marking the start of fall. Discover the full 2025 fall menu, pricing, pumpkin sourcing, and seasonal drink trends from Starbucks and rival chains.
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Returns Tuesday: Fall Menu and Seasonal Favorites
As autumn approaches, Starbucks fans have a reason to celebrate: the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday, officially signaling the start of the fall season. The seasonal drink, widely regarded as a cultural touchpoint, draws millions of customers each year and plays a key role in Starbucks’ sales strategy.
The Significance of the Pumpkin Spice Latte
Starbucks has confirmed that the Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday without any price hike, a reassuring announcement for fans concerned about inflation. Seasonal beverages like the PSL are not just a beverage choice—they are critical traffic drivers for Starbucks stores across the country.
According to Starbucks, returning seasonal favorites account for roughly 10% of annual sales. The PSL remains the company’s most popular seasonal beverage of all time, demonstrating its lasting appeal. The drink’s popularity has sparked a broader pumpkin spice trend, influencing other coffee chains and fall-themed products nationwide.
Pricing and Availability
This year, Starbucks confirmed that limited-time-only seasonal beverages will maintain the same price as last year. Prices vary depending on location, but a grande PSL typically ranges from $5.75 to $7.25 in U.S. company-operated stores.
Other popular pumpkin drinks are also back:
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew: $5.25–$5.95
- Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai
- Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte
Fans can also enjoy seasonal treats such as the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin and the Raccoon Cake Pop alongside their pumpkin-inspired beverages. Notably, apple-flavored drinks will not be part of this year’s fall menu.
Pumpkin Sourcing and Quality
Starbucks emphasizes the use of real pumpkin in its seasonal beverages. The pumpkins come from Washington state farmer Jeff Leber, who has supplied the kabocha pumpkins used in both the PSL and Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew since 2018.
The commitment to real pumpkin ensures that the taste of Starbucks’ fall drinks remains authentic. This approach also sets Starbucks apart from other chains that may rely on artificial flavoring, enhancing the brand’s reputation for quality seasonal offerings.
Cultural and Consumer Trends
The return of the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday also taps into consumer psychology and cultural trends. According to Empower’s “Pumpkin Premium” survey of 2,200 Americans:
- 44% believe inflation and tariffs have increased the price of pumpkin-flavored products
- 1 in 3 shoppers are willing to pay more for pumpkin-spice goods
- Americans spend an average of $32 per month on pumpkin-flavored items during fall, with millennials spending $64
These insights show that pumpkin spice products remain a significant part of American seasonal consumer habits, making the PSL a strategic product for Starbucks.
New Additions and Taste Tests Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday
Alongside the PSL, Starbucks has introduced several new fall offerings. The Pecan Oatmilk Cortado, for example, combines espresso, pecan, and baking spice flavors and a pecan crunch topping. Early taste tests describe it as balanced—neither too sweet nor too strong—making it a complementary addition to the seasonal lineup.
The Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai also continue to delight customers who prefer iced or creamy seasonal beverages. With Starbucks’ careful attention to flavor and quality, the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday promises consistency and enjoyment for loyal fans.
Competition from Other Chains
Starbucks’ seasonal menu has inspired rival coffee chains to compete aggressively:
- Dutch Bros, Peet’s, Dunkin’, and First Watch released fall menus ahead of Starbucks
- 7-Eleven will launch two new drinks: the Pumpkin Spice Iced Cappuccino and the Pumpkin Apple Crisp Cold Brew and Latte
- Sonic Drive-In opted for anti-pumpkin programming with its “Save a Pumpkin” campaign
Despite this competition, Starbucks’ PSL maintains a cultural and economic advantage due to brand loyalty and historical popularity. The Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday and continues to set the benchmark for pumpkin spice drinks nationwide.
Health and Nutritional Notes
Starbucks provides nutritional information for all seasonal beverages, helping customers make informed choices. While indulgent, these drinks often include options like oat milk or sugar adjustments to fit diverse dietary preferences. Customers seeking lower-calorie or dairy-free alternatives can enjoy the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte without compromising flavor.
FAQs on Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday
Q1: When does the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte return in 2025?
The Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday, marking the official start of fall.
Q2: Has the price of the PSL increased this year?
No, Starbucks confirmed that limited-time seasonal beverages remain at last year’s prices. A grande PSL ranges from $5.75 to $7.25 depending on the store.
Q3: What other fall drinks are available at Starbucks in 2025?
Starbucks is offering the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte, and more, along with seasonal treats like the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin.
Q4: Where does Starbucks source its pumpkin?
Starbucks uses real pumpkin from Washington state farmer Jeff Leber, who has supplied kabocha pumpkins since 2018.
Q5: How does Starbucks’ fall menu compare to competitors?
Rival chains like Dunkin’, Dutch Bros, and 7-Eleven have released pumpkin offerings early, but Starbucks remains a cultural benchmark due to its iconic PSL and seasonal brand loyalty.
Q6: Are there any apple-flavored drinks on the 2025 fall menu?
No, Starbucks’ 2025 fall menu does not include apple drinks.
Q7: How much do Americans spend on pumpkin spice products?
On average, Americans spend $32 per month on pumpkin-flavored items during fall, while millennials spend $64 monthly.
Conclusion
With the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte returns Tuesday, fans of the iconic drink can enjoy a seasonal favorite without worrying about price increases. From real pumpkin sourcing to a carefully curated fall menu, Starbucks continues to dominate the pumpkin spice landscape, setting trends that influence both culture and competitors.
Whether it’s the PSL, Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, or the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte, Starbucks’ fall drinks provide comfort, nostalgia, and a taste of autumn that resonates nationwide.