Abby McHenry
Seasonal Treats
August has come to an end—and with it, the arrival of Pumpkin-flavored drinks. For some, Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks’s late-August fall drink arrival seemed to be too soon, but for me, and those who have been anticipating fall since July, it was about time.
Both of the popular coffee chains currently feature their annual pumpkin-flavored items. Starbucks has released its Pumpkin Spice Latte, its pumpkin scone, its Salted Caramel Mocha Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Pumpkin Spice Madeleines, and its new Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew. Dunkin features pumpkin flavored coffees, the new Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Signature Latte, new Apple Cider Donut and Munchkins donut hole treats, and pumpkin donuts and muffins.
“Pushing it?”
Although Bauman appreciated the early release of the popular fall drink from a business standpoint, she still thinks the August release date is “pushing it.” As a barista, Bauman said the release of the fall drinks and food doesn’t change much within the store except for it being slightly busier.
Abby’s Opinion
I’m going to have to disagree with Sarah here. Pumpkin Spice, while it should be a limited time drink to build up “hype” around it and make it all the more special when it arrives, deserves a sooner start time than the end of September. Many posts and memes were already being made about spooky season (AKA Halloween) at the beginning of August, so it is definitely not too early for fall drinks.
Customize
Avid coffee drinker sophomore Gianna Delmonte said she thinks Pumpkin Spice is a great addition to her late night studying.
“I get an iced coffee at least once a day,” Delmonte said. “PSLs are different because they are so specific to the fall season.”
Fall themed drinks at both Starbucks and Dunkin can be customized to your liking. I am a big coconut milk fan and love it in Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes-10/10 would recommend. Dunkin only offers almond milk as a dairy alternative, but it is still great with your pumpkin flavored drink.
When is fall?
The first day of fall is Sept. 23, but Starbucks declared Aug. 27, the first day of fall according to their website. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about fall themed drinks, go to customerservice.starbucks.com or dunkindonuts.com/en/about/contact-us.
