Is there anything better than a chill in the air and a warm drink in your hand? I think not. Autumn is fast approaching, and that means it's time to say goodbye to the cold brews of summer and hello to the cozy drinks of fall.
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And what better place to get said drinks than Starbucks?
The coffee conglomerate has been a go-to for caffeine-starved Americans since 1971, but over the last few years, its autumnal menu has developed a cult-like following. So much so, that their 2023 fall drinks have just leaked—a phenomenon that's apparently not just reserved for music artists and movie franchises—and everyone is clamoring to get their hands on the new concoctions.
Sadly, it won't likely debut until the end of August. The exact date hasn't been confirmed, but a Starbucks employee reportedly told a blogger by the name of @Markie_devo that the fall menu will drop on August 24th.
What's on the menu? Apparently, there may be a new batch of Starbucks drinks that will satisfy all of your autumnal cravings, including the beloved (and slightly revered) Pumpkin Spice Latte. While no one is hating on the PSL, it tends to get all the attention and overshadow some of the other amazing fall drinks.
So before they drop, let's take a look at other warm and cozy Starbucks drinks that might just surpass the PSL as your go-to caffeine fix for this fall.
Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
Another Starbucks fall staple is making its grand return this year. Think of the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew as the PSL's cooler, slightly older sibling. Its autumn flavors may be slightly subtler, but the luxuriously thick layer of pumpkin cream cold foam will make all of your taste buds dance with joy.
Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
Pumpkin isn't the only fall flavor you can enjoy. Starbucks' Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato offers an undeniably delicious experience that evokes the essence of the season. The espresso base is balanced with the perfect hint of cinnamon and brown sugar, and the oat milk topping adds a sweetness that'll remind you of apple pie on a crisp autumn day.
Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
Okay, here's where things get exciting. The big names at Starbies heard how much everyone loved the apple crisp flavoring in their macchiato—so they're rumored (keyword here) to be introducing the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso. The retailer has yet to confirm this drink's existence, but if it's as good as the macchiato or the other shaken espressos on the menu, it's sure to be a fan favorite.
Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte
Another potential addition to Starbucks' fall drink menu is the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte. I'm a big chai girly, and last year, I started adding the pumpkin cream cold foam to my iced chai tea lattes. Let me tell you, it was like a flavor match made in heaven. So my fingers are crossed that this pairing is not only real but also slightly cheaper than just adding the cold foam to a regular chai.
Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
While it wasn't listed on the leaked menu, there's a good chance that the Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew will make its way back to Starbucks this year. Coffee and caramel are BFFs, and they prove it with this delectable drink. The subtle hint of salted caramel mixed with the classic cold brew is just enough sweetness to make it your go-to for cool autumn mornings.
Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino
Feelin' real frisky? Tell your local barista (politely, please) to break out the blenders and whip you up a Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino®. Starbucks' famous frappuccinos are a hit year-round, but when that added salted caramel flavor comes into season, it's even better. Fingers crossed we see it again this year!
Caramel Apple Spice
Apple juice may not be the first thing you think to order when you're in the Starbucks drive-thru, but it should at least be a close second. Especially when fall rolls around, and they top their steamed apple juice with cinnamon syrup, whipped cream, and caramel sauce. I mean, come on. It's like the beverage equivalent of a cozy autumn day.
Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew
You may be able to order this deliciousness year-round, but it's the perfect accompaniment to a cool autumn morning. A cold brew made with Starbucks' signature espresso blend, then topped off with sweet cinnamon dolce and a cinnamon-caramel cold foam? What more could you ask for?
Cinnamon Caramel Cream Nitro Cold Brew
Yes, it's basically the same thing as above but made with cold-pressed nitro coffee. So if you're looking for a way to jazz up your usual order for the season, this is it.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Okay, I caved. You can't talk about Starbucks' fall drinks without mentioning the great Pumpkin Spice Latte. This classic has been around since 2003, and it's still a customer favorite. Made with the perfect blend of pumpkin sauce and pumpkin pie spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove) and topped with a dash of whipped cream, this drink is like a warm hug on a cool morning.
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Whether you're a PSL purist or a pumpkin skeptic, there's something for everyone on Starbucks' fall menu. So when it drops, make sure to give each one of these drinks a try so that you can find your new go-to for the season.