Pumpkin Spice at Starbucks 2025 — Release Dates & Menu

Every year, the return of Starbucks’ pumpkin spice lineup marks the unofficial beginning of fall for millions of coffee lovers. What started as a single drink in 2003 has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that generates excitement, long lines, and social media buzz across the country.

Why Starbucks Pumpkin Spice is a Cultural Event

The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) isn’t just a drink—it’s a seasonal ritual that signals the transition from summer to autumn. Here’s why it has become such a cultural touchstone:

Cultural Impact

• Social media phenomenon: #PSL generates millions of posts annually
• Seasonal anticipation: Fans eagerly await the annual release announcement
• Lifestyle marker: Represents cozy autumn vibes and seasonal comfort
• Economic driver: Generates hundreds of millions in revenue for Starbucks

The Psychology Behind the Craze

• Nostalgia factor: Evokes memories of fall traditions and holidays
• Limited availability: Scarcity creates urgency and desire
• Sensory experience: The aroma and taste trigger emotional connections
• Community aspect: Shared experience brings people together

Beyond the Drink

The PSL has spawned countless pumpkin spice products across industries, from candles to cereals, making it one of the most successful flavor launches in modern food history.

Release Date 2025: Mark Your Calendars

Official 2025 Release Date: August 26, 2025

Starbucks has confirmed that their full pumpkin spice lineup will return on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, continuing the trend of earlier releases each year. This date aligns with their strategy of launching fall flavors while summer is still in full swing.

• Early Access: Starbucks Rewards members may get early access starting August 20
• Full Launch: All locations nationwide on August 26
• Duration: Available through early November (typically until Thanksgiving week)
• International: Dates may vary by country and region

Why So Early?

• Capture back-to-school shopping season
• Beat competitors to market
• Extend the profitable pumpkin spice season
• Meet customer demand for earlier fall flavors

Complete 2025 Menu Items

Signature Drinks

• Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL): Hot or iced, espresso, pumpkin spice sauce, whipped cream
• Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew: Cold brew with pumpkin cream cold foam (now with real pumpkin puree)
• Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: Served over ice, often outsells hot PSL in warm climates

New 2025 Additions

• Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino: Long-awaited frozen version
• Pumpkin Spice Refresher: First non-coffee pumpkin drink with coconut milk

Bakery & Food

• Returning: Pumpkin Scone, Pumpkin Bread, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin
• New: Pumpkin Spice Croissant, Pumpkin Cold Foam add-on, Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal

Retail Products

• Pumpkin Spice Ground Coffee, K-Cups, Creamers, Limited Edition Tumblers

Pro Tips: Ordering Hacks

• Make it healthier: Oat milk, half pumps, no whip
• Enhance flavor: Add cinnamon dolce or vanilla
• Iced perfection: Try pumpkin cold foam or upside down style
• Money saving: Rewards hacks, Happy Hour, free refills

Secret Menu Variations

• Pumpkin Spice White Mocha
• Skinny Pumpkin Spice
• Pumpkin Spice Macchiato

Nutrition & Dietary Info

• Standard PSL (Grande): 380 cal, 52g carbs, 50g sugar
• Mods: Nonfat milk, no whip, half pumps reduce calories significantly
• Allergens: Contains milk; vegan-friendly with plant milk & no whip

Related Content: Make It at Home

• Real pumpkin puree, DIY syrup, frothing tips
• Cheaper, customizable, year-round availability

Cultural & Economic Impact

• $500M annual revenue, industry-wide pumpkin trend
• Millions of social media posts & influencer campaigns
• Criticisms led to reformulation with real pumpkin in 2015

Planning Your 2025 Pumpkin Spice Season

• Join rewards, download app, plan early
• Try new items before they sell out
• Stock up on retail products for later

The 2025 season promises to be Starbucks’ biggest yet, with early launches, new drinks, and even more cultural significance. Whether PSL, cold brew, or at-home DIY—pumpkin spice fans have plenty to celebrate.