Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Returns August 26, Dunkin’ Rolls Out Fall Menu Early

The end of summer signals the return of one of America’s most anticipated seasonal traditions—the pumpkin spice latte. Starbucks and Dunkin’ are welcoming fall early this year, giving fans a head start on the cozy season. Dunkin’ officially launched its fall menu on August 20, while Starbucks will release its Pumpkin Spice Latte on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, nearly a month before the autumn equinox.

When does Starbucks pumpkin come out?

Starbucks confirmed that its fall 2025 lineup will debut on August 26, headlined by the fan-favorite Pumpkin Spice Latte. This year’s menu includes additional fall-themed beverages such as Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and a new Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. Starbucks will also introduce a Pecan Cortado, a blend of espresso and sweet nutty flavor served in small portions, and a savory Italian Sausage Egg Bite, extending the fall vibes to breakfast offerings.

In preparation for the release, Starbucks began rolling out its fall retail products—including ready-to-drink lattes, pumpkin spice-flavored creamers, and roast blends—in supermarkets and convenience stores as early as the beginning of August. These products are available nationwide, ensuring the flavor of fall reaches customers even before it hits in-store menus.

This early launch continues a recent trend for Starbucks, which has leaned into growing demand for autumnal flavors well before the season officially begins. By launching in late August, the brand captures the wave of consumer excitement that typically peaks as summer winds down.

Dunkin’ launches fall menu first

Dunkin’ beat Starbucks to market this year, launching its complete fall 2025 menu on Wednesday, August 20. The seasonal offerings include the Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte, Pumpkin Swirl flavoring available in both hot and iced coffees, and bakery favorites such as the Pumpkin Cake Donut and Pumpkin Munchkins Donut Holes.

New to this year’s menu is the Iced Pumpkin Loaf, topped with a layer of cream cheese icing, and a nostalgic Cereal N’ Milk Latte, blending cereal-inspired notes with espresso. Dunkin’ also expanded its popular Daydream Refresher lineup with a new Mixed Berry flavor for those seeking a fruitier alternative.

The early launch date reflects Dunkin’s strategy to align with customer expectations and capitalize on the seasonal mood swing towards fall comfort. It’s also a direct response to the ongoing popularity of pumpkin spice offerings, which continue to see strong sales year after year.

Why pumpkin spice season keeps coming earlier

The annual return of pumpkin spice drinks—especially the Pumpkin Spice Latte—has evolved into a cultural marker of the fall season. For many consumers, the arrival of PSL on café menus is the unofficial start of autumn, regardless of the actual calendar date.

By launching ahead of schedule, both Starbucks and Dunkin’ aim to satisfy customers’ seasonal cravings early. The shift also responds to consumer behavior, with search trends for pumpkin-flavored products rising as early as mid-July and peaking before Labor Day. Retail shelves and coffee menus alike now adjust to meet that demand, making August the new beginning of fall for the beverage industry.

What customers can expect this season

Pumpkin spice fans in 2025 can expect a rich lineup of new and returning flavors across both major coffee chains. From the classic Starbucks PSL to Dunkin’s bold flavor experiments, the season caters to both traditionalists and adventurers alike. Local coffee shops across regions like the Capital Region are also unveiling their fall menus, with options such as Pumpkin Dolce Lattes, Pumpkin Juice Cold Brews, and Pumpkin Praline Lattes.

As demand continues to rise, more brands may follow suit, turning the pumpkin spice season into a competitive event that starts earlier every year. Whether you’re loyal to Starbucks, Dunkin’, or a neighborhood café, pumpkin season is here—and it’s not waiting for September.

For your information:

Q: When does Starbucks pumpkin come out in 2025?
The Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte and full fall beverage lineup will launch on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Q: What date did Dunkin’ release its fall drinks this year?
Dunkin’ released its complete fall menu on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, including pumpkin drinks, bakery items, and new seasonal lattes.

Q: What new drinks are available at Starbucks for fall 2025?
New additions include the Pecan Cortado and Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte, alongside returning favorites like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.

Q: Is pumpkin spice available at grocery stores before the Starbucks release?
Yes, Starbucks’ ready-to-drink pumpkin lattes, creamers, and coffees appeared in retail stores as early as early August 2025.

Q: Why do pumpkin drinks launch before fall officially begins?
Coffee chains respond to early consumer interest and demand by launching seasonal flavors in August, well before the September 22 equinox.