“Pumpkin Spice Latte! Your order’s ready!” That is arguably, one of the best phrases to hear this time of year. Along with the seasonal festivities fall has to bring is the return of our beloved ‘fall drinks.’ With the change of weather comes the change of menus – in fast food restaurants, local diners, neighborhood cafes, and more.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte is among these changes. This classic fall drink never fails to evoke feelings of autumnal nostalgia. The cup of steamy, milky cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, with a shot of espresso – of course – always hits the spot. Although you could find a pumpkin spice latte almost anywhere during fall, one place that’s guaranteed to have it, and make it right, is Starbucks. Some local locations are the cafe on Route 31, Flemington (perfect for a pit stop on the way to school) and the cafe on US 202 in Flemington, right next to PNC bank. If a PSL isn’t your thing, Starbucks also has a few other drinks on their Fall Menu this year, including the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Apple Crisp Oat Milk Shaken Espresso, and the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte.
When most people think ‘fall,’ pumpkins naturally come to mind. That’s why the Pumpkin Spice Latte so often corresponds with this season; it just makes sense. The season also brings a wide array of festive snacks and desserts. The real award winner is the classic pumpkin pie. As a recently converted pie-lover myself, I can proudly say that Pumpkin Pie was what sold the bag for me. A close second when it comes to seasonal pies is a good old-fashioned pecan pie. I wouldn’t consider myself a “fan,” per se, but I definitely see the appeal. The sweet treat fits in perfectly with the season. Veering back to our pumpkin treats, another common and delicious dessert for the season are pumpkin cookies, topped with some cinnamon icing, these treats make the perfect side for your morning drink. Similarly, pumpkin cheesecake is another great twist on the standard dessert. Ok, let’s get back to the drinks.
Another typical fall favorite drink is apple cider. Made from the pressed juice of ripe apples, this beverage captures the essence of crisp, freshly harvested apples and conjures endless memories of childhood apple picking trips. From fall festivals to local mom-and-pop shops, apple cider remains on the menu and is often the first to get off it – because it’s sold out, obviously. Unlike the PSL, you might not find this drink on franchised cafe menus, and truthfully, it’s better that way. There’s nothing like going to a haunted farm with your friends on a cool fall day, sipping on a cup of apple cider in one hand while holding an apple cider donut in the other.
Now, this next drink might be available year-round, but there’s something about a hot Chai Latte to kick off the season. It’s similar to how you can have hot chocolate year round, but it’s made for the winter – Chai was made for the fall. Originating from India, Chai has made its way all the way around the world and is now a staple in many peoples’Dunkin order. Made using Cinnamon, Ginger, Mace, Cardamon, Cloves, Star Anise, and Black Peppercorns. Its unique mix of spices makes it perfect for the season. Fun fall twists and takes like Starbucks’ Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte make it even better! (Fun Fact: “Chai” means “tea.” So, “Chai Tea” actually means “Tea Tea.”)
There are quite a few reasons why Fall is a great season: The change of the leaves, the change of weather, the change of wardrobe, and most importantly, the change of menus. Next time you find yourself in a cafe, I encourage you to take advantage of this season and those limited-time items.