As Autumn arrives, Starbucks has officially brought back its popular lineup of fall drinks. The Pumpkin Spice Latte, a seasonal favorite, has returned for its 22nd year, along with the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, a top pick for those who like a cooler option.
This year’s menu also features the Iced Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte, which quickly became a fan favorite for its creamy pumpkin cold foam and spiced chai mix. Another returning favorite, the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, offers a warm caramel apple flavor that captures the essence of fall.
Starbucks introduced the Iced Pecan Crunch Cream Cold Brew, featuring buttery pecan syrup, smooth cold brew coffee and a layer of brown-butter caramel-flavored cold foam topped with crushed pecan bits. It’s quickly becoming a standout on the fall menu, offering a nutty, dessert-like flavor that pairs perfectly with cold weather.
Students have started sharing their opinions about the best drink for the season.
Julian Cook’s (10) go-to fall drink is the Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte, while Ivanna Khom (10) loves the Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte.
“Every time I drink something ‘fall coded,’ I’m sent back to a time where Gilmore Girls was on TV, Norah Jones was on the radio and Panera Bread was colorful and whimsy,” said Cook, describing the comforting nostalgia that fall drinks bring.
Teachers, too, have joined the trend. Some say they use the drinks as a pick-me-up before grading papers or to start their mornings with a bit of seasonal spirit.
Beyond the drinks, Starbucks’ fall menu also features a variety of seasonal bakery items, including the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Pumpkin & Pepita Loaf and the Owl Cake Pop. These treats pair perfectly with a hot drink on a cold day.
When it comes to choosing between hot and cold drinks, students have different opinions on what best suits the fall season.
Khom says, “I would say that the variety of hot drinks in Starbucks during fall isn’t big, so I prefer cold drinks more.”
In addition to its classic fall menu, Starbucks has also leaned into social media trends. Each year, platforms like Tiktok and Instagram buzz with creative “secret menu” recipes and aesthetic fall drink photos. From pumpkin cold foam add-ons to cinnamon dolce syrup swaps, students have found ways to make their order uniquely their own.
Starbucks has become part of many people’s routines, more than just for its drinks.
Khom says, “During the weekends, I usually get myself a drink and study with my friends at one of the cafes! If I have time in the morning on Fridays, I get it as a reward.”
For many, fall drinks represent more than just seasonal flavors; they signal the start of cozy study sessions, Friday football games and the excitement of the upcoming holidays.
Whether it’s a cozy study season or a morning pick-me-up, Starbucks’ fall menu is giving students all the autumn vibes this season.
