Fall is here, and that means it’s time for cozy sweaters, crisp air, and, of course, Starbucks’ seasonal drinks.
Every year, Starbucks brings back fan favorites and introduces new flavors that capture the essence of autumn.
From the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte to exciting new twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or looking to try something new, these 15 drinks are sure to make your fall extra special.
12 Best Fall Starbucks Drinks: At A Glance
- Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
- Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
- Caramel Apple Spice
- Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte
- Chai Tea Latte
- Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino
- Apple Crisp Oatmilk Frappuccino
- Butterscotch Frappuccino
- Pumpkin Spice Choo-Chai
- Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
- Low-Sugar Modifications
Why Starbucks Fall Drinks Are So Popular
Starbucks’ fall drinks are more than just beverages; they’ve become a seasonal tradition.
Their popularity stems largely from their limited-time availability, which creates a sense of urgency and excitement each year.
People eagerly await the return of their favorite fall flavors, making these drinks a special treat that signals the arrival of autumn.
The unique flavors, like pumpkin spice and apple crisp, evoke the warm, cozy feelings associated with the season, making them particularly appealing.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte, in particular, has achieved iconic status, becoming a cultural phenomenon that symbolizes the start of fall for many.
Its blend of warm spices and rich flavors has made it a must-have, and its influence has even extended beyond Starbucks, inspiring a variety of pumpkin spice products.
The Classics
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
The Pumpkin Spice Latte, often called the PSL, is the quintessential fall drink.
It’s made with a comforting blend of espresso, steamed milk, and the iconic pumpkin spice syrup, which features a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
Topped with whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin pie spice, it’s a drink that embodies the cozy warmth of autumn.
The PSL has earned a dedicated fan base due to its rich flavor and the nostalgic feelings it evokes.
There are plenty of customization options for those looking to switch things up.
You can order it iced for a refreshing twist, add an extra pump of pumpkin spice for a stronger flavor, or choose non-dairy milk like almond or oat to suit your preferences.
Each variation offers a slightly different take on this beloved classic.
2. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
For those who prefer a less sweet and more coffee-forward option, the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is a perfect choice.
This drink starts with Starbucks’ signature cold brew, which is smooth and slightly bitter, providing a great base for the sweet, creamy topping.
The cold brew is sweetened with a touch of vanilla syrup and topped with a layer of pumpkin cream cold foam.
This foam infuses pumpkin spice flavors, giving the drink a light and airy finish.
Unlike the PSL, the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew allows the coffee flavor to shine through, making it a favorite for those who want a more subtle pumpkin experience.
You can ask for extra foam if you enjoy the creamy texture or request additional pumpkin spice topping for a more intense flavor.
Apple-Inspired Delights
3. Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato is a layered drink that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
It starts with a base of steamed oatmilk, which adds a creamy, slightly sweet texture.
The star of the show is the apple brown sugar syrup, which infuses the drink with warm, spiced apple flavors reminiscent of a homemade apple pie.
This syrup is layered with blonde espresso, giving the drink a light, balanced coffee taste that doesn’t overpower the apple notes.
The drink is finished with a spiced apple drizzle on top, adding a final touch of sweetness and spice.
4. Caramel Apple Spice
For those who prefer a non-coffee option, the Caramel Apple Spice is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked.
This drink combines steamed apple juice with cinnamon dolce syrup, creating a sweet, warm beverage that feels like a hug in a cup.
The addition of whipped cream and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce on top makes it feel indulgent and special, even though it’s available year-round.
Despite being on the menu throughout the year, the Caramel Apple Spice truly shines in the fall, when its apple and cinnamon flavors align perfectly with the season’s cozy vibes.
Chai and Other Spiced Options
5. Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte
The Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte is a delightful blend of spiced chai and pumpkin cream, making it a perfect fall beverage.
This drink starts with the robust flavors of chai tea, which is infused with spices like cinnamon, clove, and ginger.
The chai’s warm and spicy notes are balanced by the smooth, sweet pumpkin cream, which adds a seasonal twist to this classic drink.
The pumpkin cream is typically made from pumpkin puree, cream, and spices, creating a rich and creamy topping that enhances the chai’s flavors.
You can enjoy this drink iced for a refreshing treat on a warmer fall day, or order it hot for a comforting, cozy experience.
6. Chai Tea Latte
The Chai Tea Latte is a versatile drink that shines particularly bright in the fall.
Its base is a strong, spiced black tea, blended with steamed milk to create a smooth and creamy beverage.
The chai’s blend of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to embrace the warm, comforting flavors of the season.
The beauty of the Chai Tea Latte lies in its versatility—you can enjoy it hot, iced, or even blended as a Chai Crème Frappuccino.
It’s also easily customizable; you can add a shot of espresso for an extra kick, or choose a non-dairy milk for a lighter option.
Frappuccinos for Fall
7. Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino
The Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino is a creamy, blended version of the beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte, making it a nostalgic fall favorite in a colder form.
It combines the same pumpkin spice flavors, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, with a smooth, icy texture that feels indulgent and satisfying.
The rich, creamy base is blended with ice and topped with whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin spice, creating a dessert-like treat that’s perfect for those who prefer their fall flavors in a more refreshing format.
8. Apple Crisp Oatmilk Frappuccino
The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Frappuccino is another fall-inspired treat that offers a rich, dessert-like experience.
This Frappuccino blends oatmilk, coffee, and apple brown sugar syrup with ice to create a smooth, creamy beverage that’s bursting with autumnal flavors.
The oatmilk provides a creamy, slightly nutty base that pairs perfectly with the spiced apple flavors, reminiscent of a warm apple pie.
Topped with whipped cream and a spiced apple drizzle, this drink feels like a decadent dessert in a cup, ideal for those who want to enjoy the flavors of fall in a cold, blended form.
Its rich, layered taste makes it a standout option for anyone looking to indulge in something sweet and seasonal.
Secret Menu Creations
9. Butterscotch Frappuccino
The Butterscotch Frappuccino is a delightful secret menu item that offers a sweet alternative for those who want to skip the pumpkin craze.
To order this treat, ask for a creme-based Frappuccino with a mix of Pumpkin Spice Sauce, Caramel Syrup, and Hazelnut Syrup—requesting 1 pump for a tall, 2 for a grande, and 3 for a venti.
This combination creates a rich, buttery flavor that’s reminiscent of classic butterscotch candy.
Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel, this drink is a must-try for anyone looking for a fall-inspired treat that’s different from the usual pumpkin offerings.
Its creamy, indulgent flavor makes it a standout choice for those who enjoy sweet, dessert-like beverages.
10. Pumpkin Spice Choo-Chai
For tea lovers, the Pumpkin Spice Choo-Chai offers a chai-based twist on the traditional pumpkin spice flavors.
To order this drink, start with a Chai Tea Latte and ask for it to be steamed with Pumpkin Spice Sauce—1.5 pumps for tall, 2 for grande, and 3 for venti.
The result is a cozy blend of spiced chai and pumpkin that offers a warming, autumnal flavor profile without the coffee.
This drink is perfect for those who enjoy the spiciness of chai tea but still want to indulge in the pumpkin spice trend.
It’s a unique option that brings together the best of both worlds, making it a popular choice among those who prefer tea over coffee.
Healthy and Dairy-Free Options
11. Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
The Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato is a fantastic choice for those looking for a dairy-free option that still delivers all the cozy flavors of fall.
This drink uses oatmilk, which not only makes it suitable for those avoiding dairy but also adds a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that complements the apple and brown sugar syrup beautifully.
The oatmilk blends seamlessly with the blonde espresso, providing a smooth, rich texture that enhances the drink’s overall flavor profile.
12. Low-Sugar Modifications
If you’re looking to enjoy Starbucks’ fall drinks with less sugar, there are several easy modifications you can make.
One of the simplest ways to reduce sugar is by asking for fewer pumps of syrup—many drinks come standard with four pumps, but you can request just one or two to cut down on sweetness.
Another option is to switch to a sugar-free syrup where available, such as opting for sugar-free vanilla in your Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Additionally, you can ask for your drink to be made with a smaller amount of whipped cream or skip it altogether to reduce calories and sugar content.
How to Customize Your Fall Starbucks Drink
Customizing your fall Starbucks drink is a great way to make it uniquely yours, whether you want to enhance the seasonal flavors or tailor it to fit your dietary preferences.
One simple way to add a touch of fall to any drink is by requesting pumpkin spice topping or apple brown sugar syrup, which can be added to anything from a basic latte to a cold brew.
These additions bring in the warm, spicy notes that are synonymous with autumn, making any drink feel more seasonal.
If you’re looking to make your drink vegan, opt for plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and skip the whipped cream.
Most of Starbucks’ syrups, including the popular vanilla and hazelnut, are vegan-friendly, so you can still enjoy a flavorful drink without dairy.
For those following a keto diet, request sugar-free syrup options and swap regular milk for heavy cream or almond milk, which are lower in carbs.
Additionally, you can ask for no whipped cream and use just a few pumps of syrup to keep your drink within your dietary goals.
Conclusion
Fall at Starbucks brings a variety of delicious drinks that capture the essence of the season.
From the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte to unique secret menu creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option, a low-sugar treat, or just want to try something new, these drinks offer endless possibilities for customization.
Now it’s your turn—what’s your favorite fall Starbucks drink?
Share your go-to orders or customization tips in the comments below!
FAQ’s
When is Starbucks’ fall menu available?
Starbucks typically launches its fall menu in late August, and it remains available through the end of November or until supplies last.
The exact date can vary slightly each year, so it’s a good idea to check with your local store or follow Starbucks on social media for the latest updates.
How can I order secret menu items at Starbucks?
To order secret menu items at Starbucks, you need to provide your barista with the specific ingredients and modifications required for the drink.
Since these items aren’t on the official menu, baristas won’t know the recipe by name.
Be sure to clearly explain what you want, such as the type of syrup, base, and any toppings.
For example, to order a Butterscotch Frappuccino, ask for a creme-based Frappuccino with Pumpkin Spice Sauce, Caramel Syrup, and Hazelnut Syrup.
Can I customize fall drinks to be dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily customize Starbucks’ fall drinks to be dairy-free.
Simply ask for your drink to be made with a non-dairy milk option like almond, soy, or oat milk.
You can also request to omit the whipped cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative if available.
Are there low-sugar options available for fall drinks?
To reduce the sugar content in fall drinks, you can ask for fewer pumps of syrup, opt for sugar-free syrup where possible, and skip the whipped cream.
Additionally, some drinks like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew can be modified to include less sweetened cold foam or fewer pumps of vanilla syrup.
