COFFEE GUIDE
Pumpkin Spice Latte
The most popular seasonal drink in American coffee history. Available everywhere from late August.
WHAT IT IS
The pumpkin spice latte (PSL) is a seasonal espresso drink with pumpkin spice flavoring (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove), steamed milk, and usually whipped cream. Starbucks introduced it in 2003 and it became one of the best-selling seasonal items in coffee history. Most versions use pumpkin spice syrup rather than actual pumpkin.
HOW IT IS MADE
Pumpkin spice syrup (or sauce) is combined with espresso shots in the cup. Steamed milk is poured over the mixture. Whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice blend top the drink.
WHAT IT TASTES LIKE
Sweet, spiced, and autumnal. Cinnamon and nutmeg are the dominant notes. The espresso flavor competes with the spice and sweetness. More indulgent than any unflavored espresso drink.
WHEN TO ORDER IT
In fall, obviously. As a seasonal treat. When you want the most recognizable seasonal coffee drink on earth.
HOW TO ORDER IT
Say "PSL" or "pumpkin spice latte." Most shops run it seasonally from late August through November.
VARIATIONS
Iced PSL: over ice. Cold brew PSL: pumpkin spice in cold brew. House-made PSL: specialty shops sometimes make their own spice blend.
CAFFEINE
About 125mg for a 12 oz version with a double shot.
According to Pulled Coffee data from 462,531 coffee shops worldwide, 15.9% of all coffee shops are classified as specialty — the type most likely to serve a proper Pumpkin Spice Latte. In cities like Vancouver (4,175 specialty shops) and London (3,621), your chances of finding a great one are significantly higher than the global average.
Find a great Pumpkin Spice Latte near you
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