11+ Ways to Embrace Everything Pumpkin Spice

I created this list to infuse your life with everything pumpkin spice this beautiful autumn season. Starbucks is created the pumpkin spice trend that has swept across the globe. The company introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte (#PSL) in 2003 as a seasonal drink, and it quickly exploded into a full (fall?) craze. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newbie, get ready to immerse yourself in everything pumpkin spice with these 11 fabulous things. It’s Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice!

11+ Ways to Embrace Everything Pumpkin Spice (Yes, We Americans Are Obsessed!)

I’ll continue to update this list as time goes on … and I find (or make) more awesome pumpkin spice stuff!  The PSL was the result of months of experimentation and testing by Starbucks’ research and development team. The goal was to create a drink that captured the essence of autumn, and the PSL, with its warm, sweet, and spicy flavors, perfectly fit the bill.

The drink combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove with the sweetness of pumpkin and the robustness of espresso, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. 

In my opinion, the PSL rides on our already-obsession with apples (and apple sauce with cinnamon) and pumpkin pies.

Anyway, as the PSL’s fame grew, so did the demand for all things pumpkin spice. Companies from various industries, including food, beverage, and even cosmetics, began to introduce their own pumpkin spice products. (Ahem, Target!!!)

Today, the PSL is not just a drink; it’s a cultural icon, and the pumpkin spice trend it inspired shows no signs of slowing down. You can now find everything pumpkin spice pretty much everywhere and in everything.

Why Do People Put Pumpkin Spice in Everything?

IMHO, the answer lies in the comforting, nostalgic feelings that pumpkin spice evokes. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings back memories of family gatherings, hearty meals, and cozy autumn evenings.

The scent of pumpkin spice is warm and inviting, making it the perfect addition to everything from food and drinks to home decor. The taste is equally appealing, offering a balance of sweet and spicy that tantalizes the taste buds. With everything pumpkin spice, it’s easy to immerse oneself in the spirit of fall.

Is Pumpkin Spice Just Allspice?

A common misconception is that pumpkin spice is just allspice. In reality, pumpkin spice is a blend of several spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Allspice, on the other hand, is a single spice that comes from the berries of the Pimenta dioica tree. While allspice does have a flavor profile that is similar to a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it is not the same as pumpkin spice.

Why Is Pumpkin Spice So Expensive?

With everything in marketing, the price meets the demand. Companies can charge whatever they want … because it doesn’t seem to slow down. I dare to guess that PSL season is almost as big as Christmas.

Does Pumpkin Spice Have Pumpkin in It?

No. One might think that everything pumpkin spice contains actual pumpkin, but this is not the case. Pumpkin spice is named for its use in pumpkin pies, not for its ingredients. The blend of spices used in pumpkin spice is meant to complement the flavor of pumpkin, not to mimic it.

This is why you can enjoy everything pumpkin spice, even if you’re not a fan of actual pumpkins. The warm, spicy flavor of pumpkin spice pairs well with a variety of foods and drinks, making it a versatile addition to any fall menu.

What other ways can you celebrate everything pumpkin spice?