Summer is still coming in hot (literally), but Starbucks says it’s time to start thinking about sweater season: On Tuesday, August 26, the Pumpkin Spice Latte returns, marking the unofficial start of fall—nearly a month before the autumn equinox.
For the uninitiated, the so-called "PSL" has been the crown jewel of Starbucks' seasonal drinks since it hit the scene in 2003. It's made with real pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, espresso and steamed milk, then topped with whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin pie spice. It’s warm, it’s nostalgic and, yes, you can get it hot, iced or blended.
RECOMMENDED: Starbucks debuted the culty Ube Espresso Martini this summer
But the PSL isn't the only tasty fall treat at Starbucks—the chain is dropping its full fall menu on the same day, August 26. Returning favorites include Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai and the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. Joining them this year are a few exciting new additions, including savory Italian Sausage Egg Bites and the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado, a new riff on the coffeehouse’s cortado lineup. If you missed it earlier this year, the cortado is a three-shot ristretto espresso drink with steamed milk—smaller and stronger than a latte, but a bit smoother than a straight espresso.
The annual PSL launch has become a big deal, practically a seasonal celebration. (It's like the Gilmore Girls of drinks.) Since its debut two decades ago, the festive beverage has become Starbucks’ most popular limited-time drink, sparking countless imitators and even an entire pumpkin spice economy across grocery shelves and food chains nationwide.
So whether you’re ready to lean into fall vibes with scarves and sweaters or just want an early excuse to sip something sweet, Starbucks has you covered. Pumpkin spice season officially begins this Tuesday.