As the summer sun fades and the leaves begin to change, Starbucks rolls out one of the most anticipated events in the coffee calendar — the return of fall-flavored drinks. With cozy spices, warm flavors, and comforting textures, these seasonal beverages are more than just drinks; they’re experiences. Whether you’re a long-time pumpkin spice aficionado or looking to explore something more unique, Starbucks delivers a roster of fall-inspired options that are sure to make your autumn extra sweet.
In this article, we explore some of the best fall Starbucks drinks to try this season, including beloved classics, trending newcomers, and a few hidden menu gems that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re stopping by for your morning energy boost or winding down the day with something indulgent, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Fall Favorites: The Beloved Starbucks Fall Drinks You Can’t Skip
Starbucks has long made its mark in the fall with a few signature drinks that have become synonymous with the season. These crowd-pleasers are released every year — often with much fanfare — and for good reason.
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
There’s arguably no drink more iconic for fall than the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Introduced in 2003, the PSL quickly became a cultural phenomenon. With its blend of espresso, steamed milk, and the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, accented with real pumpkin puree, it’s the epitome of cozy autumn sipping.
This drink is also highly customizable:
- Non-Dairy Options: Swap in oat, almond, or soy milk for a delicious twist.
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew: For cold beverage lovers, the cold brew version offers the same great flavor with a refreshing chill.
- Strength: Want more spice? Ask for extra pumpkin sauce or spice syrup shots.
2. Maple Pecan Latte
The Maple Pecan Latte is the perfect marriage of sweet and nutty, offering a taste reminiscent of buttery pecan tarts and maple syrup drizzled over warm pancakes.
It’s often available for a limited time and pairs beautifully with flaky pastries. With steamed milk, espresso, and rich maple pecan syrup, this drink is perfect for those seeking a more refined, subtle alternative to the bolder PSL.
Fall-Forward Flavors: New and Trending Starbucks Drinks for Autumn
While Starbucks is known for its signature classics, the company continues to innovate with refreshing fall flavors to suit evolving tastes. These newer drinks have been gaining popularity, and some are poised to dethrone the older classics.
3. Creamy Mocha Cookie Latte
If you have a sweet tooth, the Creamy Mocha Cookie Latte will not disappoint. Blending mocha, cookie-flavored syrup, and espresso, it’s a velvety creation that feels like a dessert in a cup. The latte is topped with whipped cream and chocolate cookie crumbles, offering a fun texture with each sip.
Ideal for:
- Mocha lovers
- Those craving a dessert-style drink
- Cool, rainy afternoons when comfort is key
4. Starbucks Chai Latte (Seasonal Perfection)
Chai is a fall staple — and Starbucks’s Chai Latte is a modern, elevated take on the traditional Indian spiced black tea. This latte uses a smooth black tea concentrate infused with spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper, blended with frothy steamed milk and a touch of sweetness.
What makes it great for fall:
- Vegan Options: Use oat milk and skip whipped cream for a vegan-friendly version.
- Energizing and warming: Tea base with a hint of natural sweetness and bold flavors.
- Spice notes add warmth to chilly mornings or evenings.
5. Toffee Nut Latte
The Toffee Nut Latte is one of those unsung heroes of the Starbucks fall lineup. While often underestimated, it is a rich and complex blend of espresso, steamed milk, toffee nut syrup, and dark caramel drizzle, finished with a sugar-coated nut topping.
What sets it apart:
- Subtle sweetness with nuttiness that lingers.
- Can be made as a cold brew for those not ready to give up cold drinks just yet.
- The nut topping offers a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Under-the-Radar Gems: Hidden Fall-Inspired Starbucks Drinks Worth Trying
Beyond the regular menu and Starbucks’ seasonal specials are some hidden gems on the secret menu and lesser-known regular offerings that incorporate perfectly into fall’s mood and flavor palette.
6. Maple Macchiato
A twist on the classic espresso macchiato but often created at the barista’s discretion, the Maple Macchiato typically includes maple syrup and espresso layered with steamed milk. Sometimes customized as a cold foam version in the iced variety, it’s a lighter, more sophisticated pick.
Try pairing it with:
- A croissant or apple turnover to enhance the fall vibe.
- Ask for a shot of cinnamon to deepen the autumn character.
7. Apple Crisp Macchiato (Limited-Time Seasonal Drink)
The Apple Crisp Macchiato lives up to its name — it’s like biting into a warm apple cinnamon crisp but in drink form. Sweet apple and cinnamon flavors combine with vanilla syrup and cold brew, and the presentation is unique: apple flavored sauce drizzled in your cup, topped with cinnamon-vanilla cold foam and cinnamon sugar topping.
Flavor notes:
- Perfect balance of sweet and spice.
- Ideal for folks who enjoy the taste of apple pies or spiced ciders but prefer a coffee base.
- Best enjoyed during brisk autumn afternoons.
8. Honey Apple Sidr (Cold Brew Option)
Although not officially on the menu, this barista-crafted creation has surged in popularity among Starbucks fans who want something warming but refreshing. It blends apple cinnamon syrup, honey syrup, and cold brew, topped with cinnamon for extra spice.
Key features:
- Unique honey finish that lingers without being overly sweet.
- Light yet flavorful — ideal for late autumn mornings.
- Can be made vegan by skipping whipped cream and using non-dairy milk.
Iced vs Hot: How to Enjoy Your Fall Starbucks Drinks Year-Round
Just because it’s fall doesn’t mean everyone enjoys a hot beverage — and lucky for coffee lovers, many of these drinks can be served hot or cold.
9. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
The Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is essentially the chilled cousin of the classic PSL, minus the dairy-based milk foam. It features cold brew topped with pumpkin cream made from sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla.
Flavor and features:
- Smaller caffeine punch than regular cold brew, making it great for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- Less syrup-based, resulting in a naturally creamy and smoother finish.
- Ideal for summer’s last gasp or early autumn days that feel more like summer.
10. Iced Toffee Nut Latte
Another fantastic warm-to-cool transitional drink is the Iced Toffee Nut Latte, made with espresso, milk, toffee syrup, and served over ice. Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of dark caramel, this latte remains flavorful even when served cold.
Pro tip:
- Add an extra shot of syrup for a stronger nutty kick.
- Ash for a half-caffeine option if you want something more mellow.
How to Customize Your Starbucks Fall Drink
Part of the fun of visiting Starbucks is personalizing your drink to suit your taste — and with so many milk options, syrups, and toppings available, the possibilities are endless.
Milk Alternatives for Fall Flavors
Starbucks now offers non-dairy milk options for every fall drink, with oat milk being a particularly complementary choice due to its creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with spiced beverages.
Other good choices:
- Almond Milk: Light and subtly sweet, great with cinnamon and maple flavors.
- Soy Milk: Holds froth well and offers a traditional latte mouthfeel.
- Coconut Milk: Adds a slight tropical, creamy note that complements spiced and dessert-style drinks.
Syrup Adjustments to Elevate Taste
Many Starbucks drinks can be enhanced dramatically through small syrup adjustments. Here are a few expert-level tricks:
| Drink | Tweak | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Spice Latte | Add vanilla syrup | Smooths out spice and adds richness |
| Toffee Nut Latte | Extra toffee nut syrup | Emphasizes nutty, caramel-like notes |
| Apple Crisp Macchiato | Add cinnamon dolce syrup | Enhances the crisp apple flavor |
Upsize Strategically
Fall Starbucks drinks are typically priced by size, and some additions (like whipped cream and sauce drizzle) are automatic based on your cup size. Consider a Grande (16 oz) size — it offers the best balance of flavor and value without over-caffeinating (or over-sugaring!) you.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Fall Flavors Count
As the brisk winds blow and mornings get cooler, few things signal the arrival of fall like your first Pumpkin Spice Latte or Toffee Nut Cold Brew. Starbucks has mastered the art of seasonal menu innovation, ensuring there’s something on offer for purists and flavor experimenters alike.
From the original classics that started trends to exciting new flavors and barista-crafted hidden gems, exploring fall Starbucks drinks is about more than coffee — it’s about savoring the season. Whether you enjoy these drinks at your local Starbucks, order them through the app, or recreate them at home, there’s no better time than now to dive into the comfort of cool-weather Starbucks sips.
So go ahead — treat yourself. It’s fall, and you deserve it.
What are the most popular fall drinks at Starbucks?
Starbucks is well-known for its seasonal fall lineup, offering a variety of flavors that capture the essence of autumn. Among the most popular fall drinks are the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Caramel Brulee Latte, and Apple Crisp Macchiato. These beverages combine traditional fall ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple with rich espresso or steamed milk, creating a comforting and indulgent experience for customers.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte, in particular, is a fan favorite and often signals the arrival of fall for many Starbucks enthusiasts. The Caramel Brulee Latte offers a sweeter, creamier flavor profile with a luxurious topping of caramel brulee crunch. Meanwhile, the Apple Crisp Macchiato blends notes of spiced apple and brown sugar for a fruity and aromatic treat. These drinks are not only flavors of the season but also social media darlings that generate widespread excitement year after year.
Are there any non-coffee fall drinks available at Starbucks?
For those who prefer to skip the coffee but still embrace the seasonal spirit, Starbucks offers several non-coffee fall beverages. The Apple Crisp Refresher and Chai Latte are two of the top choices for caffeine-free or alternative options. The Apple Crisp Refresher is made with apple juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar, served over ice for a crisp, refreshing flavor that evokes fall in every sip.
Alternatively, the Chai Latte, while traditionally made with black tea, can also be requested without the tea base for a warm, spiced milk beverage. These options provide delicious alternatives for people who are sensitive to caffeine, don’t drink coffee, or simply want to try something different while still enjoying the warm and spicy flavors of the season.
Can I order a healthier version of a pumpkin spice latte?
Yes, you can customize your pumpkin spice latte to make it a healthier option without sacrificing the signature fall taste. Start by choosing a smaller size, such as a tall, which naturally reduces the calorie and sugar content. Then opt for nonfat or a plant-based milk alternative like almond milk to lower the fat and calorie count. Skipping the whipped cream can also cut a significant amount of sugar and calories from the drink.
Additionally, ask your barista to use a reduced amount of the pumpkin spice syrup pump to lower the sugar content further. Some Starbucks locations offer the Pumpkin Spice Sauce instead of just syrup, which gives a more natural flavor and may have a slightly better nutritional profile. By making these small adjustments, you’ll still enjoy the rich, spiced flavors of the season while keeping your beverage more nutritionally balanced.
What’s new in this year’s fall Starbucks drink lineup?
This season, Starbucks introduced a few exciting additions to its fall menu that aim to elevate the classic offerings. One of the highlights is the return of the Creamy Mushroom Mocha, a playful and innovative drink that combines white chocolate mocha sauce with steam milk and a hint of earthy mushroom flavor, topped with a festive mix of cinnamon and cocoa powder. While not a traditional fall beverage, it has gained traction as a unique seasonal option.
Another new feature is the use of limited-time toppings and enhancements to existing drinks, such as the pumpkin cream cold brew and seasonal whipped cream infused with spiced flavors. Starbucks is also emphasizing sustainability with more eco-conscious packaging for seasonal items, aligning their delicious flavors with a commitment to the environment. These updates reflect the brand’s ongoing efforts to surprise and delight customers with creative twists and mindful practices.
When can I order fall drinks at Starbucks each year?
Starbucks typically introduces its fall menu at the beginning of September, just as the weather starts to cool and the leaves begin to turn. This year, like many others, Starbucks kicked off its autumn offerings in early September, allowing customers to enjoy the comforting flavors of the season right as it begins. Availability can vary slightly by region, and some stores may bring the menu in earlier or later depending on local weather conditions.
The seasonal drinks are usually offered through early January, making them available well into the winter months. This allows customers ample time to savor their favorites even after fall has officially passed. While some drinks may return each year with minor tweaks, others may be retired or replaced, adding an element of excitement and urgency to enjoy the flavors while they’re available.
Can I recreate Starbucks fall drinks at home?
Absolutely, Starbucks fall drinks are quite easy to recreate at home, especially with the Starbucks syrups and sauces that are available for purchase online or in stores. For example, the Pumpkin Spice Latte can be made by adding pumpkin spice syrup to freshly brewed coffee or espresso and topping it with steamed milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Customers can also find recipes directly from Starbucks’ website or app for more accurate guidance.
Using a milk frother, buying seasonal syrups, and experimenting with different types of milk and sweeteners can help replicate the Starbucks experience at home. YouTube and food blogs are bursting with copycat recipes created by fellow enthusiasts looking to enjoy the flavors without the price tag or lines. Making these drinks at home is a great way to customize sweetness and ingredients while still enjoying the warm, seasonal tastes fans adore.
Are there any limited-time fall drinks at Starbucks I should try?
In addition to the regular seasonal favorites, Starbucks often introduces limited-time drinks that are only available for a short period during the fall season. This year, the Creamy Mushroom Mocha and the Maple Pecan Latte are among the standout limited-time options. These drinks are crafted to showcase seasonal ingredients in creative ways, appealing to both adventurous and loyal Starbucks customers seeking something new.
The Maple Pecan Latte delivers a rich, nutty flavor with natural maple notes and pecan syrup, topped with pecan praline pieces for added texture and taste. Meanwhile, the Creamy Mushroom Mocha offers an intriguing mix of white chocolate and mushroom flavors that provide a unique, earthy richness. These exclusive drinks reflect Starbucks’ commitment to innovation and seasonality, so it’s best to try them before they’re gone!