Many say there are two certainties in life. Fall enthusiasts might argue for three.
Death, taxes and the return of pumpkin spice.
As the summer nears its end, coffee chains are beginning to roll out their fall lineups, complete with the coveted pumpkin spice latte — a favorite for many franchises.
Ohioans may be more keen on the fall flavor than the average American. A report from Instacart found Ohioans purchased around 51% more pumpkin spice products on its platform than the national average last year.
“Pumpkin spice is a clear seasonal favorite, and it’s also evident that people are looking for new ways to incorporate this flavor into their meals and homes,” Alex Orellana, Instacart’s trends analyst, said in a prepared statement. “From starting your day with a dose of protein in Greek and Icelandic yogurt, to filling your home with the scent of pumpkin spice, this trend shows there is no one way to enjoy it.”
Starbucks releases its fall lineup Aug. 26, including its Pumpkin Spice Latte and other fall-themed selections. Dunkin’ was ahead of the curve, having already released its lineup.
If you’re antsy for the iconic fall flavor, there are plenty of options throughout the Northeast Ohio area.
Is pumpkin spice season arriving earlier this year?
Last year, pumpkin spice orders observed by Instacart peaked on Sept. 17 — 10 days earlier than in the year before.
“If it feels like pumpkin spice season creeps up earlier every year … You’re not imagining it!” according to a report from the company. “But this early surge came with a faster cooldown, with demand taking a dip by the end of the month. There’s also a reliable second spike in late November, likely driven by Thanksgiving’s fondness for all things squash and spice.”
Which state loves pumpkin spice the most?
West Virginia had the highest rate of orders for pumpkin spice items by a mile.
“West Virginia tops the pumpkin spice leaderboard, ordering 91% more pumpkin spice products than the national average,” according to the Instacart report. “Pennsylvania (+56%) and Oklahoma (+52%) round out the top three. On the flip side, Hawaii takes the title for the least pumpkin-spicy state, ordering 63% less than average.”
When is pumpkin spice coming back to Starbucks?
The company announced its Pumpkin Spice Latte will return Aug. 26.
“In addition to the PSL, fan-favorite Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte are also returning to the menu, alongside a new Pecan Oatmilk Cortado and new Italian Sausage Egg Bites,” the company said in a prepared statement.
Dunkin’ fall menu includes new Cereal N’ Milk Latte
Dunkin’ released its fall lineup Aug. 20, bringing back its Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte alongside other favorites from years past. The company is also debuting a new cereal-themed drink.
“This latte is all about nostalgia! The idea came from the best part of eating cereal, that last bit of milk. We all remember finishing a bowl just to enjoy those final, sweet sips, which inspired our new Cereal N’ Milk Latte,” Anthony Epter, vice president of menu innovation at Dunkin’, said in a prepared statement. “With our very own cereal milk blended with rich espresso, the Cereal N’ Milk Latte brings that marshmallow-flavored, bottom-of-the-bowl taste in every sip. Just like the Dunkalatte, it gives the classic latte a fun new twist.”
Krispy Kreme brings back its pumpkin spice Season menu
Pumpkin spice drinks made their return to Krispy Kreme Aug. 11. The menu includes the Original Glazed Pumpkin Spice Doughnut, Original Glazed Pumpkin Spice Cake Doughnut, the Pumpkin Spice Latte and Pumpkin Spice Coffee.
The Cincinnati Enquirer contributed to this report.
Reach Janson McNair at jmcnair@gannett.com or 330-580-8347.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Guess what? It’s pumpkin spice season! And Ohioans gobble it up
Reporting by Janson McNair, Canton Repository / The Repository
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
