Starbucks Brings Back Pumpkin Spice Latte with New Non-Dairy Option

Starbucks has officially launched its fall menu, highlighted by the much-anticipated Pumpkin Spice Latte, a staple since 2003. This year, the coffee giant introduces the "Iced Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai," a drink that originated as a popular customer customization. The new beverage combines warming chai spices with creamy oat milk and is topped with nondairy apple crisp cold foam, adding a fresh twist to the seasonal offerings. In addition to the new chai, the fall menu includes returning favorites such as the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, which is available in both hot and iced versions. The bakery selection has also been updated, featuring a new cake pop design alongside classic items like the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Baked Apple Croissant, and Pumpkin and Pepita Loaf. As with all seasonal items, these offerings will be available for a limited time. Experts suggest that the popularity of pumpkin-flavored items can be attributed to the "scarcity effect," which makes them feel special due to their limited availability. Dr. Matt Johnson from Boston notes that the emotional connections people have with these flavors, tied to memories of fall and holiday traditions, enhance their appeal. Starbucks continues to capitalize on these seasonal flavors, creating a strong emotional bond with customers as they embrace the comforting tastes of autumn.