As autumn sweeps in, coffee enthusiasts are eager to savor the seasonal delight of pumpkin spice-flavored brews.
In this post, we have compiled a list of the 12 best pumpkin spice coffees that promise to enhance your fall coffee experience.
From well-established brands to hidden gems, our selection caters to diverse tastes and preferences.
The 12 Best Pumpkin Spice Coffees: At A Glance
- Lifeboost Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Best Overall
- Peet’s Coffee Pumpkin Spice K-Cup Pods: Best K-Cups
- Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Best Budget Option
- Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Flavored Ground Coffee: Most Balanced Flavor
- Lifeboost Pumpkin Spice Decaf: Best Decaf Coffee
- Volcanica Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee: Best Availability
- Death Wish Pumpkin Chai Coffee: Best For Caffeine Boost
- Eight O’Clock Coffee Pumpkin Spice: Best For Versatility
- Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Naturally Flavored Coffee: Best Classic Flavor
- La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte: Best Cold Brew
- Jordan’s Skinny Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup: Best Syrup
- McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice: Best For Sampling
1. Lifeboost Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Best Overall
Our top recommendation for the best Pumpkin Spice Coffee is Lifeboost’s Pumpkin Spice Coffee, and if you’ve been following us, you know we’re big fans of Lifeboost for a good reason – they make fantastic coffee!
Lifeboost’s Pumpkin Spice Coffee is a seasonal delight, blending the smoothness of medium-roast coffee beans with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin flavors.
The rich taste comes from natural oil-based extracts, creating an intense and uniquely aromatic cup with medium to low acidity.
It’s a perfect choice for those chilly fall mornings.
Maintaining a perfect balance, the medium roast ensures the pumpkin spice complements the coffee without overpowering it, and vice versa.
Lifeboost’s premium Single Origin Coffee hails from the mountains of Nicaragua, where the widest variety of Arabica beans thrive at high altitudes.
The slow growth in mountain shade, hand selection, and careful harvesting contribute to the gourmet quality of this coffee.
Lifeboost’s commitment to quality is evident as they never compromise with blends – each bag contains beans carefully chosen as the premium selection of a harvest.
Additionally, the coffee is organic, low-acid, non-GMO, and undergoes third-party testing for mycotoxins and pesticides, ensuring a pure and natural brew.
Roasted in small batches, Lifeboost guarantees freshness from bag to bag.
Whether you prefer whole beans or ground coffee, this 100% Arabica coffee caters to your brewing preferences.
While it’s a bit on the pricier side, this Pumpkin Spice Coffee is an indulgence worth saving for special occasions due to its exceptional flavor and quality.
Pros
- Premium Arabica Beans
- Unique Seasonal Blend
- Intense Aroma
- Well-Balanced Medium Roast
Cons
- Higher Price Point
2. Peet’s Coffee Pumpkin Spice K-Cup Pods: Best K-Cups
Peet’s Coffee Pumpkin Spice K-Cup Pods are a limited-release seasonal treat infused with natural pumpkin spice flavors, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Crafted from single-origin Brazilian beans, lightly roasted to complement these seasonal notes, the coffee boasts a light roast with a perfectly balanced richness – add a splash of milk or cream for an extra touch.
What sets Peet’s apart is not just the well-rounded aroma but also their commitment to responsible sourcing.
The K-Cup pods are made with recyclable materials, and the coffee itself is sourced with a focus on ethical practices and community welfare.
From the inviting fragrance to the harmonious blend of pumpkin pie spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove), this coffee promises a thoroughly pleasant experience.
Peet’s Coffee goes beyond just crafting great coffee; they actively contribute to positive change in the communities where their beans are grown.
However, it’s worth noting that, while the pumpkin flavor is delightful, those accustomed to a darker roast might find it a bit on the milder side.
Pros
- Natural Pumpkin Spice Flavors
- Light Roast with Balanced Richness
- Recyclable K-Cup Pods
- Commitment to Ethical Sourcing and Community Impact
Cons
- Milder Flavor, Not Ideal for Dark Roast Enthusiasts
3. Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Best Budget Option
Let’s spill the beans—Trader Joe’s may not be your first thought for coffee roasters, but their Pumpkin Spice Coffee has earned a spot on this list.
Crafted as a medium-dark roast from 100% Brazil Cerrado Arabica beans, it goes beyond the basics by infusing actual spices like orange peel, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and vanilla beans.
What sets this coffee apart is the clever combination of grinding the beans and spices together, allowing the flavors to mingle and marry for a delightful brew.
Enjoy it black for a smooth, subtly spiced flavor, or add milk and sugar to crank up those sought-after pumpkin spice notes.
Available in both ground form and convenient single-serving pods compatible with Keurig machines, this holiday coffee keeps things affordable without compromising on taste.
The pumpkin spice flavor strikes a perfect balance, avoiding the overpowering taste found in some other blends.
The best part? Trader Joe’s keeps it budget-friendly, making it easy to stock up on your favorite seasonal brew.
The only catch? It’s a seasonal delight, so snagging it in the summer might be a bit tricky.
Pros
- Affordable
- Unique Spice Blend
- Versatile Taste
- Convenient Brewing
- Seasonal Delight
Cons:
- Limited Availability
4. Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Flavored Ground Coffee: Most Balanced Flavor
Sipping on pumpkin spice coffee can sometimes feel like a one-spice show—too much cinnamon here, overpowering nutmeg there.
But with Dunkin’s Pumpkin Spice Flavored Ground Coffee, it’s a harmonious blend where all the spices play nicely.
Brewed in our cute little one-cup coffee maker, it crafts a beautifully balanced cup with that classic Dunkin’ flavor shining through.
If the balance is your coffee mantra, Dunkin’ nails it with its pumpkin spice blend.
This limited edition, fall-friendly medium roast dances with the seasonal pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg trio.
Packaged in an 11-ounce bag, it’s designed to be your go-to during autumn, offering a smooth and flavorful taste.
Yes, it’s artificially flavored, but that doesn’t stop it from being a popular choice for those who crave seasonal coffee vibes.
Tailored for consumer machines, Dunkin’s Pumpkin Spice Coffee adapts to your brewing preferences, promising a great taste regardless of your setup.
And let’s talk aroma – it’s more fragrant than your average brew, filling your home with delicious scents every time you whip up a pumpkin spice latte.
While you can find it both in stores and online, there’s a catch—it’s a limited-time affair, usually only available from September to November.
It’s a seasonal coffee, so snagging a fresh roast outside those months might be a bit tricky.
Pros
- Harmonious Spice Blend
- Medium Roast Goodness
- Tailored for Consumer Machines
- Aromatic Delight
Cons
- Limited Edition (Seasonal)
5. Lifeboost Pumpkin Spice Decaf: Best Decaf Coffee
Lifeboost’s Decaf Pumpkin Spice coffee is just as fantastic as its regular counterpart.
If you’re craving all those delicious seasonal flavors minus the caffeine, you’re in for a treat.
The Lifeboost Pumpkin Spice Decaf, a medium roast, seamlessly blends the smoothness of Lifeboost’s coffee beans with the delightful notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin.
Crafted from individually hand-selected Arabica beans, cultivated in mountain shade by local farmers, this decaf undergoes a meticulous process.
Each bean is hand-picked, and fermented for 26 hours to delicately remove the skin, maintaining the integrity of the seed.
And yes, it’s still 100% Arabica – the gold standard for taste and quality.
This decaf version stays true to the single-origin Nicaraguan coffee, preserving its focused and specific flavor profile.
The Swiss Water decaffeination process ensures an incredible taste without any chemical aftertaste or weird flavors.
Whether you prefer whole beans or ground coffee, this option caters to your brewing style.
Low in acidity with a clean cup, it’s a go-to for those who relish high-quality, gourmet coffee without the discomfort of excessive acidity.
Now, the only hiccup is the price.
The Swiss Water process does make it a tad pricier, but as mentioned earlier, Lifeboost coffee, in general, leans towards the higher end.
It’s a small trade-off for a quality, decaf pumpkin spice experience.
Pros
- Seamless Seasonal Flavors
- Meticulously Selected Arabica Beans
- Swiss Water Decaffeination Process
- Single-Origin Nicaraguan Coffee
Cons
- Higher Price Point (Swiss Water Process)
6. Volcanica Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee: Best Availability
Volcanica, much like Lifeboost, has won us over with its diverse coffee offerings from around the globe.
Their Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee, a medium roast, brings the taste of pumpkin pie and spices to your cup all year round.
No need to wait for Fall – it’s a classic flavor that delivers a cozy, holiday experience every day.
Balanced and aromatic, this medium roast captivates with robust pumpkin spice flavors.
Whether you opt for regular or decaf, the coffee doesn’t disappoint.
The regular version undergoes a washed process, ensuring crisp and clean flavors.
For decaf lovers, Volcanica employs the Swiss Water Process, a chemical-free method that preserves the unique origin characteristics and flavor, resulting in a 99.9% caffeine-free delight.
As another 100% Arabica coffee, it aligns with the best choice for taste and quality.
However, it’s worth noting that this is a blended coffee, prioritizing the pumpkin spice over the coffee flavor profile.
Pros
- Year-Round Pumpkin Spice Flavor
- Aromatic Medium Roast
- The washing process ensures crisp and clean flavors
- 100% Arabica Beans
Cons
- Blended Coffee, Emphasizing Pumpkin Spice Over Coffee Flavor
7. Death Wish Pumpkin Chai Coffee: Best For Caffeine Boost
Known for its robust and seasonal kick, this coffee packs about 165 mg of caffeine per cup.
The addition of chai spices to the pumpkin spice creates a distinctive, bold flavor profile, making it a unique and memorable drinking experience.
Blending Arabica and Robusta beans, it’s the ideal choice for those seeking an extra caffeine boost.
Death Wish’s Pumpkin Chai Coffee is a seasonal treat that marries the beloved pumpkin spice with the boldness of Death Wish Coffee.
This medium roast concoction features a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, resulting in a smooth and delicious flavor.
What sets it apart is its commitment to natural ingredients, steering clear of unpronounceable chemicals for a clean and wholesome coffee experience.
The intense flavor pairs excellently with creamer or steamed milk, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a pumpkin spice latte.
Sourced from high-quality beans, Death Wish Coffee boasts Fair Trade Certification and USDA organic credentials, ensuring top-notch production standards.
Whether you’re munching on pumpkin cookies or jalapeno cheddar toast, this coffee makes for a versatile companion.
Available in traditional 12-ounce ground and whole bean bags, as well as single-serve coffee pods, Death Wish Pumpkin Chai Coffee can be found at various retailers and online.
However, the only trade-off with its blend of Arabica and Robusta beans is a slightly less crisp flavor profile compared to an all-Arabica coffee.
Pros
- Unique Chai Spice Blend
- A blend of Arabica and Robusta for Extra Caffeine
- Clean and Natural Ingredients
- Fair Trade Certified and USDA Organic
Cons
- Less Crisp Flavor Profile Due to Arabica and Robusta Blend
8. Eight O’Clock Coffee Pumpkin Spice: Best For Versatility
Experience the flavors of fall with Eight O’Clock Coffee Pumpkin Spice, a seasonal delight that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.
What’s noteworthy is that Eight O’Clock tailors its blends for home brewing, ensuring excellent results no matter your preferred coffee-making method.
This medium-roasted coffee offers a smooth, full-bodied flavor with subtle hints of cinnamon spice, maple brown sugar, and classic pumpkin notes.
It’s like sipping on your grandma’s homemade pumpkin pie, assuming she’s a stellar baker, of course.
Available in both ground form and convenient single-serve Keurig K-Cup pods, this coffee is designed for ease and enjoyment.
Artificially flavored and made from 100% Arabica beans, Eight O’Clock Coffee ensures a better and tastier experience compared to Arabica/Robusta blends.
With over 100 years of history, it’s not just about taste – it’s about responsibility.
The brand supports organizations aiding coffee farmers and their communities, making it a brew that tastes good and does good.
You can snag a bag on the Eight O’Clock Coffee website, Amazon, Walmart, and Kroger.
The only downside? It’s a batch-roasted coffee, so the freshness might not be at its peak.
Pros
- Tailored for Home Brewing
- Smooth, Full-Bodied Taste
- Subtle Cinnamon Spice, Maple Brown Sugar, and Pumpkin Notes
- 100% Arabica Beans
- Kosher Certified
- Supports Coffee Farmers and Communities
Cons:
- Batch-Roasted, Potential Freshness Variability
9. Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Naturally Flavored Coffee: Best Classic Flavor
Introducing the OG of pumpkin spice coffees—the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Naturally Flavored Coffee.
This limited edition fall delight, roasted with raw, natural flavors, is the epitome of pumpkin spice goodness.
Crafted by blending 100% Arabica coffee beans with other natural ingredients, it comes in both ground coffee and convenient K-Cup pods.
With notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this medium roast achieves a balanced and bright flavor profile.
Neither the coffee nor the pumpkin spice dominates, ensuring a harmonious taste.
For an extra delightful experience, a splash of cream and a touch of sugar is recommended to awaken the flavors.
The subtle pumpkin spice touch makes it versatile for recipes like mochas or iced drinks.
Starbucks, a veteran in the game, maintains consistent quality from bag to bag.
The intensity of the aroma and flavor adds a nice touch to all your drinks.
You can find this classic at Starbucks stores and online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Just a heads up, the pumpkin spice flavor may not shine as strongly when enjoyed black.
Pros
- Iconic Starbucks Flavor
- Natural Raw Flavors
- Versatile for Recipes
- Consistent Quality
- Bright and Balanced Medium Roast
Cons
- Subtle Pumpkin Spice when Consumed Black
10. La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte: Best Cold Brew
For the cold brew enthusiasts out there, La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte is a top choice.
This seasonal delight offers a refreshing twist on a fall favorite, blending cold-pressed Nizza espresso with real pumpkin puree and warming spices.
It comes in two varieties: the original Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte and the Oatmilk Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Both feature 100% Arabica, single-origin Brazilian cold brew coffee, packing 120 mg of natural caffeine (equivalent to 1.5 cups of coffee).
The La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Draft is gluten-free, kosher, lactose-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
Opting for the original version means sipping on only 110 calories with 55% less sugar than the leading flavored coffee drink, making it a smart choice for health-conscious coffee lovers seeking those perfect fall flavors.
Now, here’s the heads up: if you’re not accustomed to cold brews, the aftertaste might strike you as a bit unusual and might take some getting used to.
Pros
- Real Pumpkin Puree and Warming Spices
- 100% Arabica, Single-Origin Brazilian Cold Brew
- 120 mg Natural Caffeine (1.5 Cups of Coffee)
- Gluten-Free, Kosher, Lactose-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan
- Low in calories and sugar
Cons
- Unusual Aftertaste for Those Unaccustomed to Cold Brews
11. Jordan’s Skinny Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup: Best Syrup
Jordan’s Skinny Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup is an easy, guilt-free way to infuse your brew with that delightful coffee shop pumpkin spice goodness.
Many sweeteners can be a diet wreck, but not this one.
It’s naturally sweetened, boasting 0 calories, 0 sugar, and 0 carbs.
Health-conscious coffee lovers will love this!
Crafted with a blend of stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol, this syrup delivers a rich and aromatic pumpkin spice taste without the guilt.
It’s a gluten-free and kosher option, catering to various dietary needs.
The versatility is a bonus—you can use it in coffees, lattes, tea, protein shakes, smoothies, baking, oatmeal, and more.
Fans applaud the Skinny Syrups Pumpkin Spice for nailing the right balance of spices with sweet pumpkin, especially in the aroma department.
Yet, it’s fair to note that some users detect a slight artificial aftertaste, which might be a consideration for some palates.
In the grand scheme, Jordan’s Skinny Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup stands out as a go-to choice for a healthier and flavorful pumpkin spice upgrade.
Pros
- Naturally Sweetened with no calories and sugar
- Gluten-Free and Kosher
- Versatile Usage in Various Beverages and Recipes
- Rich and Aromatic Pumpkin Spice Taste
Cons
- Some Users Detect an Artificial Aftertaste
12. McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice: Best For Sampling
McCormick’s Pumpkin Pie Spice is an easy way to infuse autumn vibes directly into your coffee grounds before brewing.
This jar of flavor is a budget-friendly option, perfect for testing the pumpkin spice waters before diving into pricier choices.
A McCormick original since 1934, this spice blend boasts a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and sulfiting agents.
It’s a go-to for fall and holiday recipes, bringing a delightful spicy-sweet kick to desserts, drinks, and savory dishes alike.
From sweet potatoes and apple dishes to gingerbread and frostings, the possibilities are vast.
Now, the catch is that it leans heavy on cinnamon and falls a bit short on clove.
While it might be perfect for pies, using it in coffee takes a bit of trial and error to nail the flavor just right during brewing.
Experimenting with that perfect pumpkin spice coffee is all part of the fun.
Pros
- Easy Flavor Infusion Before Brewing
- Budget-Friendly Option
- McCormick Original Since 1934
- Versatile for Various Recipes
Cons
- Dominant Cinnamon, Lacks Clove
- Requires Trial and Error for Coffee Brewing
What About Pumpkin Spice Creamer?
Pumpkin Spice Creamer is a specially flavored creamer designed to impart a delightful pumpkin spice flavor to coffee or other beverages.
Typically crafted with ingredients such as pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sweeteners like maple syrup or condensed milk, this creamer enhances your drink with the warm, seasonal taste of pumpkin spice.
Whether you opt for a store-bought version or make it at home, Pumpkin Spice Creamer comes in various brands and varieties to cater to diverse preferences.
Choosing the Best Pumpkin Spice Coffee: A Buyer’s Guide
When embarking on the quest for the perfect Pumpkin Spice Coffee, several key factors can significantly influence your decision.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate through the choices:
Artificial or Authentic Flavoring
One crucial consideration is whether you prefer Pumpkin Spice Coffee with artificial or authentic flavoring.
Some brands use natural ingredients like real pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for an authentic taste, while others may rely on artificial flavorings.
If you value a more genuine and robust pumpkin spice experience, opt for brands that embrace natural ingredients, providing a richer and more nuanced flavor profile.
However, for individuals operating on a tighter budget, opting for artificially flavored beans may be the most suitable choice.
Freshness
Freshness is paramount when it comes to coffee, and the same holds true for Pumpkin Spice Coffee.
Coffee beans, especially those infused with seasonal flavors, tend to lose their vibrancy over time.
Look for brands that prioritize freshness, possibly indicating the roast date on the packaging.
Consider purchasing from roasters who employ small-batch roasting practices, ensuring that you savor the full, aromatic experience of pumpkin spice with each cup.
Roast Level
The roast level plays a significant role in determining the flavor profile of your Pumpkin Spice Coffee.
Different roasts, ranging from light to dark, bring out distinct characteristics in the beans.
For a Pumpkin Spice Coffee that maintains a balance between the coffee and spice flavors, a medium roast is often a safe choice.
It allows the pumpkin spice notes to shine without overpowering the coffee’s inherent qualities.
However, personal preferences vary, so feel free to experiment with different roast levels to find your perfect match.
Ethics
In an era where ethical sourcing is increasingly important, consider the ethical practices of the coffee brand.
Look for certifications such as Fair Trade or Direct Trade, indicating that the brand is committed to fair wages, sustainable farming practices, and supporting coffee-growing communities.
Choosing ethically sourced Pumpkin Spice Coffee allows you to enjoy your cup with the added satisfaction of knowing it aligns with social and environmental responsibility.
Price
Price is undoubtedly a practical consideration.
While Pumpkin Spice Coffee may be a seasonal indulgence, it’s essential to find a balance between quality and affordability.
Some premium brands may come with a higher price tag, often reflecting the use of high-quality, natural ingredients and ethical sourcing.
If you’re testing the waters or on a budget, there are also excellent budget-friendly options available that deliver a satisfying pumpkin spice experience without breaking the bank.
The Verdict: What Is The Best Pumpkin Spice Coffee?
Lifeboost’s Pumpkin Spice Coffee emerges as our #1 choice for a few key reasons.
It combines a smooth medium roast with natural, rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin.
Sourced from an exclusive, high-altitude region in Nicaragua, these 100% Arabica beans ensure unparalleled freshness and quality.
Handpicked, organic, and free from mycotoxins, Lifeboost’s commitment to ethical and premium coffee practices sets it apart.
With a well-balanced flavor that doesn’t overpower, this Pumpkin Spice Coffee provides a delightful and satisfying experience, making it our ultimate pick for the best Pumpkin Spice Coffee.
FAQ’s
What pumpkin spice does Starbucks use?
Starbucks utilizes a distinctive blend of ingredients for their Pumpkin Spice Latte.
The beverage comprises milk, Starbucks’ proprietary pumpkin spice sauce, brewed espresso, topped with whipped cream, and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice topping, crafted from a combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
The pumpkin spice sauce itself is crafted from sugar, condensed milk, pumpkin puree, and undisclosed natural flavors.
What does pumpkin spice taste like in coffee?
In coffee, the taste of pumpkin spice is a cozy blend of warmth, nuttiness, and spiciness, featuring subtle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
This seasonal flavor is commonly infused into various coffee beverages such as lattes and cappuccinos.
Why do people like pumpkin spice lattes so much?
The widespread affection for pumpkin spice lattes stems from a blend of factors.
Firstly, the flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin pie evoke a sense of holiday nostalgia and familial warmth.
The drink’s consistent and distinctive taste, achieved through pumpkin-spice syrup, replicating the essence of pumpkin pie, contributes significantly to its popularity.
The aromatic qualities of pumpkin spice lattes, triggering nostalgic and joyful recollections, further enhance their appeal.
Effective marketing strategies, especially by Starbucks, have transformed the pumpkin spice latte into a seasonal tradition, eagerly anticipated and celebrated each fall.
Is pumpkin spice better at Starbucks or Dunkin?
In a comparison between Starbucks and Dunkin’ for pumpkin spice lattes, a Boston.com poll revealed that 52% of 158 readers favored the barista-made drink from Starbucks, while 37% opted for Dunkin’.
A blind taste test conducted by Boston.com in 2018 further supported the preference for Starbucks, with judges expressing a likelihood to reorder a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte due to its generous spicing, thicker texture, and pronounced sweetness compared to Dunkin’s.
Tasting Table also endorsed Starbucks, citing its natural pumpkin flavor and well-balanced spice blend that tempered sweetness, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable taste.
Thus, these sources indicate a preference for Starbucks over Dunkin’ when it comes to pumpkin spice lattes.
