All descendants of pumpkin spice fear my awakening on September 22nd–the very first day of Autumn. The mixture of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cloves is not underrated nor “under-hated”! The true enigma surrounds the flavor’s name, the epitome of misinformation, for it does not consist of a single sprinkle of pumpkin. However, its scarcity of pumpkin does not diminish its title as the most iconic fall flavor due to its ability to conjure the wholesome spirit and excitement that is commonly associated with this chilly, peaceful season.
Pumpkin spice personally brings me indescribable joy, especially when it is fused with other harmonious herbs and spices. A renowned autumn treat that makes an annual appearance on Starbucks’s Fall Menu is the Pumpkin Spice Latte, frequently seen on students’ desks during first period or collectively adored on social media. It is one of those select few beverages that are enjoyed when served chilled or warm.
Following in its footsteps, PSL’s first cousin has grown equally prominent in the Starbucks Autumn Universe after earning its spot on the official menu. The Pumpkin Cream Chai was initially a “Secret Menu” item that could only be requested through a specific order. It couples the fan-favorite Chai Tea with a pumpkin cream cold foam and cinnamon topping. Precious Hoang (12) says, “The Pumpkin Cream Chai is the perfect drink to get in the fall season! It’s like if cinnamon and pumpkin had a baby.”
In addition to its beverage features, pumpkin spice has dominated the snack game and squeezed its way into some of your favorite grocery stores. Trader Joe’s remains a fierce competitor in the yearly pumpkin spice wars, releasing flavored cookies, wafer rolls, pretzels, and toast spread! My personal favorite amongst the store’s wide selection is the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Beans: The perfect medley of chocolate, a splash of coffee, and pumpkin spice. The flavor pairs well with the bitterness of the espresso beans and the richness of the chocolate.
Pumpkin spice’s influence is not restricted to sweet treats; certain companies have hopped on the trendy bandwagon with savory items instead. Organic popcorn company Lesser Evil released a pumpkin spice rendition of its Himalayan salt popcorn to honor the fall season. This snack allows you to indulge in the flavorful spices without concerning yourself with never-ending calories. Lesser Evil avoids the usage of artificial ingredients and promotes inclusivity through its gluten free and vegan curations.
Another shocking food item that has welcomed pumpkin spice into its savory dimension is hummus! Companies such as Boar’s Head and Lantana proudly serve customers their Pumpkin Spice Hummus when September rolls around. Dana Joo (12) says, “I am a huge fan of weird food combinations, but I have never pictured pumpkin spice being associated with savory foods. Maybe I just haven’t explored it to my fullest potential.”
Pumpkin spice’s versatility deserves more recognition for its representation of the autumn season and the joy it brings to people of all ages! In my humble opinion, the flavor is far from overrated and has earned every ounce of praise received during this time of the year. I look forward to trying the pumpkin spice innovations that arise in the future, as its influence has extended far beyond our stereotypical sweets.
