While pumpkin spice has dominated fall menus for the last several years, it looks like that may be changing. Are consumers tired of pumpkin? Even though online search results for “pumpkin spice latte” are up 227 per cent, research shows that 45 per cent of people would choose an alternate flavour, listing cinnamon (39 per cent), salted caramel (37 per cent), and apple (36 per cent) as their top fall flavours.
In order to appeal to an array of fall customers, many restaurants are continuing to feature pumpkin on the menu, while adding additional fall flavours to the roster.
Starbucks famously introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) in 2003, and while it continues to be featured on the fall menu, they’ve embraced apple as a favourite flavour this season. Along with the classic PSL, Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, and Iced Pumpkin Chai, this year’s fall menu includes the Iced Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai, Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, and Iced Apple Oatmilk Shaken Espresso. The Iced Caramel Apple Latte and the Iced Honey Apple Almondmilk Flat White are also available for purchase through the app.
Panera has launched the fall lineup for their baked goods, embracing the tradition with the return of their Pumpkin Cookie, along with the Coconut and Chocolate Macaroon, Cranberry Orange Cake, and almond and Cherry Pastries.
Tim Hortons’ fall menu is returning September 18, featuring Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew with Cold Foam, a Pumpkin Spice Donut and Muffin, and Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cold Brew, along with a few new items: a Chai Latte Blend, Caramel Apple Latte, and a maple waffle sandwich with egg.
Dunkin launched their fall menu, on August 28, including the classics like the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Pumpkin Muffin, and Pumpkin Donut, along with more fall flavours like the Apple Cider Donut, Almond Spice Coffee, and the Maple Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich.
While pumpkin still dominates most fall menus, many operators are broadening their flavour profiles, adding maple, apple, and more to the menu. As diner palates shift and demand increases for more fall favours, restaurants with a larger fall menu will stand out from the competition and attract a broader range of customers.
