Starbucks will launch its fall menu nationwide on Aug. 26, bringing back the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte and other seasonal favorites, while competitor Dunkin’ plans an even earlier rollout on Aug. 20, according to multiple reports. The Seattle-based chain confirmed the date last month, marking the latest return for the PSL since 2022, when it debuted on Aug. 30. Last year’s launch fell on Aug. 22, continuing a trend of earlier introductions that signal the unofficial start of fall for coffee enthusiasts.
The Starbucks fall menu 2025 lineup includes returning items such as the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai and Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte, alongside new additions like the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado and Italian Sausage Egg Bites. The PSL, a hot espresso-based drink blended with steamed milk, pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove flavors, remains the centerpiece, having sold hundreds of millions since its 2003 debut as the company’s third seasonal beverage after the Eggnog Latte and Peppermint Mocha. Priced around $5.95 for a tall size, the drink uses real pumpkin in its sauce, a change implemented in 2015 to address customer feedback on artificial ingredients.
Dunkin’, aiming to capture early market share, is set to introduce its fall offerings a week ahead, featuring the Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte in hot or iced varieties, along with new items including the Cereal N’ Milk Latte, Candy Bar Signature Latte, Mixed Berry Daydream Refresher, Chipotle Loaded Hash Browns, Iced Pumpkin Loaf and Kreme Delight Donut. Returning classics like the Maple Sugar Bacon Sandwich, Pumpkin Donut and Pumpkin Munchkins will also appear, with some reports indicating a two-phase launch extending into October for Halloween-themed treats. Food influencer accounts leaked details in July, sparking online buzz about the menu’s variety, which emphasizes sweet and savory options to appeal to breakfast crowds.
This year’s early releases reflect a broader industry shift, as chains compete to extend seasonal sales amid rising demand for limited-time flavors. The PSL alone generates significant revenue for Starbucks, contributing to billions in annual sales from fall promotions. In 2015, the drink didn’t appear until Sept. 8, but dates have crept forward, with the past seven years landing in late August. Analysts attribute this to consumer anticipation, amplified by social media, where #PSL posts surge annually.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte originated from a 2003 development session in Starbucks’ Seattle headquarters, where teams tested flavors like chocolate and caramel before settling on pumpkin pie-inspired notes. Initially launched in 100 stores in Vancouver and Washington, D.C., it expanded nationwide the following year due to strong sales. The drink’s cultural footprint extends beyond coffee, inspiring products from cereals to candles, and even economic discussions on seasonal consumerism.
Dunkin’s strategy mirrors this, with its pumpkin offerings dating back to 2003 as well, though the chain has leaned into baked goods like pumpkin muffins alongside beverages. The Cereal N’ Milk Latte, evoking breakfast nostalgia, uses cereal-infused milk syrup, while the Mixed Berry Daydream Refresher offers a non-coffee alternative with berry and green tea notes. Prices for Dunkin’s fall drinks typically start at $3.99, positioning them as more affordable options compared to Starbucks.
Both menus incorporate plant-based choices, such as oatmilk in Starbucks’ Pecan Crunch Latte and Dunkin’s dairy-free refreshers, aligning with growing preferences for vegan alternatives. Nutritional details vary; a grande PSL contains about 390 calories and 50 grams of sugar, prompting some chains to offer lighter versions.
For Southern Maryland residents, these fall menus will be available at local outlets, including Starbucks locations in California, Lexington Park and Waldorf, where drive-thru lines often lengthen during seasonal launches. Dunkin’ stores in Prince Frederick, Leonardtown and La Plata similarly see increased traffic, with some offering app-based pre-orders to reduce wait times.
Health experts note the high sugar content in these drinks, recommending moderation amid Maryland’s focus on wellness initiatives. The state Department of Health reports rising obesity rates, making lighter customizations—such as nonfat milk or fewer pumps of syrup—popular among locals.
As climate patterns shift, with warmer Augusts in Maryland averaging 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the early arrival of fall flavors provides a psychological transition to cooler months. Retail data shows pumpkin spice products generate $500 million annually across industries, underscoring the menus’ broader impact.
Starbucks plans additional fall merchandise, including themed tumblers, while Dunkin’ ties promotions to its rewards app. Customers can check availability via the companies’ apps or websites. With Labor Day on Sept. 1, these launches precede the holiday, extending the season for flavor fans.
The competition between Starbucks and Dunkin’ highlights evolving consumer tastes, with both chains adapting menus based on feedback. In Southern Maryland, where coffee shops serve as community hubs, these offerings add to local autumn traditions.
