Starbucks’ fall menu returns with PSL — plus a new fall flavor

By MixDex Article may include affiliate links

The Pumpkin Spice Latte has returned to Starbucks‘ menu — but the chain has also whipped up a new fall flavor.

The Apple Crisp Macchiato, along with the famous (or infamous) PSL debuted in stores Aug. 24, 2021.

Starbucks says it was looking for a way to extend its fall flavors beyond just pumpkin spice, a found that in the flavor of apples.

The drink features steamed milk with espresso and caramelized spice apple drizzle giving it that “fall flavor.”

This marks the first time Starbucks has combined fruit flavoring with coffee (it already offers a line of fruity teas and refreshers).

During development, the team focused on complementing the flavors or cinnamon and nutmeg with the roasted notes in espresso.

It also became clear that testers wanted more apple flavoring — and that flavor is boosted with apple puree in the drizzle, which is designed to be applied in cross-hatch pattern reminiscent of lattice on apple pie.

The beverage is also available in an iced version, which Starbucks says conjures images of apple pie a la mode.

In addition to the new apple crisp drinks, the PSL has returned, along with pumpkin cream cold brew. Also making a return are the pumpkin cream cheese muffin and pumpkin scone. The chain also offers pumpkin loaf, but this is available all year round.

To celebrate the return and love of all things pumpkin, Starbucks also rolled out a digital experience it calls the “Pumpkin Love O’ Meter” that helps customers find out where they “fall” on pumpkin flavoring.

Starbucks is also selling two new Starbucks Reserve roasts in take home bags at its company owned U.S. stores: A Vietnam Da Lat with notes of bittersweet chocolate and dried orange peel, and Costa Rica Naranjo, that the chain says has notes of apricot and almond.

Guatemala Casi Cielo is also returning to stores for its 17th year.