When the leaves turn golden and there’s a crisp chill in the air, it can only mean one thing—fall drinks are back at Starbucks! Whether you’re a die-hard pumpkin spice fan or just looking for something new, this season brings a lineup of warm, spiced, and cozy drinks perfect for sweater weather.
Every year, Starbucks releases a selection of seasonal fall beverages, featuring flavors like pumpkin, apple, caramel, and cinnamon. But with so many options, which one is actually worth ordering? Should you stick to the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte, or is there a better fall drink this year?
To make things easy, we’ve ranked and reviewed the best fall Starbucks drinks based on flavor, seasonal nostalgia, and overall experience. Whether you love bold coffee, sweet indulgences, or subtle autumn notes, there’s a perfect match for you. Let’s break it down!
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) – The Fall Classic
The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is the drink that started it all. First introduced in 2003, it has become the unofficial mascot of fall and a must-have for many coffee lovers.
The Flavor That Defines the Season
One sip of a PSL, and you’re instantly transported to crisp autumn days and cozy sweaters. It’s a rich, creamy blend of espresso, steamed milk, and pumpkin spice syrup, featuring a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Topped with whipped cream and an extra dusting of pumpkin spice, it’s warm, comforting, and nostalgic.
Why It Continues to Dominate Fall
- Unbeatable seasonal charm – No drink captures fall’s essence quite like this one.
- A great balance of spice and sweetness – It’s indulgent without being overwhelming.
- Customizable to your liking – Try it with oat milk, an extra shot of espresso, or half the syrup for a less sweet experience.
A Few Things to Consider
While it’s beloved, the PSL can be too sweet for some. For a stronger coffee taste, request fewer syrup pumps or opt for a less creamy fall drink.
Final Verdict: The ultimate fall staple. If you haven’t had one yet, can you even call it autumn?
2. Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato – A Warm Hug in a Cup
Not everyone wants pumpkin in their fall drinks, and that’s where the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato comes in. First introduced in 2021 and reformulated in 2022, it’s an apple-inspired twist on the classic macchiato.
The Perfect Blend of Coffee and Apple Pie
If you love apple crisp fresh out of the oven, this drink is for you. It combines blonde espresso, oat milk, and apple brown sugar syrup, finished with a spiced apple drizzle. The oat milk adds a creamy, slightly nutty texture that enhances the drink’s warmth.
Why It’s a Standout Option
- A unique alternative to pumpkin flavors – Apple lovers, rejoice!
- Not as sweet as the PSL – Offers a more balanced flavor.
- Dairy-free by default – Great for those who want a creamy latte without milk.
Potential Downsides
Some find the apple flavor too subtle, especially in iced versions. If you want a stronger apple-cinnamon kick, order it hot for the best flavor experience.
Final Verdict: The perfect fall drink for apple lovers. If pumpkin isn’t your thing, this is the one to try.
3. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew – A Fall Drink for Iced Coffee Lovers
Not everyone switches to hot coffee once the temperature drops. If you’re someone who drinks iced coffee year-round, the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is your ideal fall beverage.
A Bold Take on Pumpkin Flavor
This drink starts with smooth, unsweetened cold brew, giving it a stronger coffee flavor than the PSL. Instead of pumpkin syrup mixed into the drink, it’s topped with a velvety pumpkin cold foam, made with real pumpkin, vanilla, and warm spices. Every sip delivers a perfect balance of bold coffee and subtle autumn flavors.
Why It’s a Fan Favorite
- Less sweet, more coffee-forward – Ideal for those who prefer their coffee stronger.
- A refreshing fall option – Great for those early fall days when it’s not quite cold enough for hot drinks.
- The pumpkin cream foam is next-level – Adds just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the coffee.
What You Should Know Before Ordering
If you prefer creamier, sweeter drinks, this might not be for you. The cold brew is naturally bitter, so the drink leans more on the bold side. If you like the idea of it, but need a touch more sweetness, ask for a splash of vanilla syrup or try a half-sweet version.
Final Verdict: The best fall drink for iced coffee lovers. It’s smooth, refreshing, and just pumpkin-y enough to feel festive.
4. Caramel Apple Spice – The Fall Favorite Without Coffee
Not every fall drink needs caffeine to be a seasonal staple. Caramel Apple Spice has all the warmth and coziness of autumn without a single drop of coffee, making it a go-to choice for those craving something sweet and spiced.
Often overlooked in favor of pumpkin-based drinks, this one deserves more recognition for its comforting, apple-forward flavor.
A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Spiced
Steamed apple juice infused with cinnamon syrup sets the foundation for this drink, while a generous topping of whipped cream and caramel drizzle brings a dessert-like richness.
The combination mimics the taste of a caramel-dipped apple, balancing tartness with deep, buttery sweetness.
Unlike espresso-based options, this one delivers pure fall flavors without the bitterness of coffee.
What Makes It Stand Out
- A naturally caffeine-free option, perfect for late-night cravings or those who prefer non-coffee drinks.
- The blend of tart apple, warm cinnamon, and rich caramel creates a well-rounded seasonal taste.
- Brings a familiar, nostalgic quality reminiscent of autumn festivals and fresh-baked apple desserts.
A Few Considerations
Despite its inviting flavors, this drink leans heavily on sweetness. The caramel and cinnamon syrup enhance the richness, which can be overwhelming for those who prefer subtle flavors. To adjust, ordering it with less syrup or diluting it with a splash of hot water helps balance the sweetness.
Final Verdict: A dessert-like fall indulgence, perfect for capturing the essence of caramel apples in a warm, comforting drink.
5. Maple Pecan Latte – The Most Underrated Fall Drink
Pumpkin may dominate fall menus, but maple and pecan bring a flavor profile that’s just as cozy and inviting.
The Maple Pecan Latte, often overshadowed by its pumpkin counterpart, offers a rich and slightly toasted alternative for those who enjoy warm, nutty notes in their coffee.
A Rich, Nutty Alternative to Pumpkin
This latte blends smooth espresso with maple syrup and toasted pecan flavors, creating a subtly sweet experience with a deep, caramelized undertone.
Unlike the bold spice of a PSL, this drink delivers a gentler warmth, making it ideal for those who prefer a balanced, less cinnamon-heavy autumn drink.
The espresso’s robustness keeps it from being overly sweet, while the pecan notes introduce a mild, roasted quality that lingers pleasantly.
Why It Deserves More Recognition
- A less sugary option compared to pumpkin-based drinks, making it a great choice for those who appreciate subtle sweetness.
- The toasted pecan flavor brings a nutty depth that feels comforting without overpowering.
- The maple syrup adds a caramel-like richness, enhancing the overall smoothness.
Things to Keep in Mind
While this drink offers well-rounded flavors, its availability is inconsistent. It has appeared on fall menus in the past but isn’t always available at every Starbucks location.
For those lucky enough to find it, adding a dash of cinnamon or pairing it with an extra shot of espresso elevates its already warm and inviting notes.
Final Verdict: A cozy, underrated fall gem that offers a delightful alternative to pumpkin-spiced drinks with its nutty, caramelized depth.
6. Toasted White Mocha – The Creamy, Cozy Fall Treat
Toasted White Mocha, though often associated with early winter, makes for a luxurious and festive fall treat. With its smooth, caramelized white chocolate and velvety texture, this drink bridges the gap between autumn and the holiday season.
A Smooth, Velvety Twist on a Classic
Unlike traditional mochas, which lean on cocoa-based richness, this version focuses on toasted white chocolate, adding a buttery depth with a hint of caramelization.
The espresso provides a necessary contrast, keeping it from becoming overly sweet, while steamed milk enhances its creamy consistency.
Finished with a swirl of whipped cream and golden sugar pearls, it carries a subtle festive charm while remaining a warm, inviting fall option.
What Makes It a Seasonal Favorite
- A sweet, indulgent choice for those who enjoy rich, creamy drinks with a dessert-like quality.
- The toasted white chocolate flavor adds a smooth caramelized layer, making it more complex than a standard white mocha.
- Less spice-forward than other fall drinks, catering to those who prefer mellow, buttery sweetness over cinnamon-heavy flavors.
A Few Downsides
Regardless of its appeal, this drink tends to be on the sweeter side, which might not work for those who favor bolder coffee notes. Reducing the syrup pumps or choosing a blonde espresso base can help create a more balanced version while keeping its signature richness intact.
Final Verdict: A creamy, comforting drink with a subtly festive touch, perfect for those who love smooth, caramelized flavors without heavy spice.
Conclusion
With so many fall drinks to choose from, finding the right one depends on flavor preference and sweetness level. The Pumpkin Spice Latte remains a classic, while the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew offers a less sweet, bolder alternative.
Apple Crisp Macchiato brings a fruit-forward twist, and Maple Pecan Latte offers a nutty, caramel-like depth that feels underrated. Caramel Apple Spice and Toasted White Mocha offer the ultimate dessert-like indulgence, rich and comforting in every sip.
Each drink captures a different side of fall, whether it’s the warmth of cinnamon, the tartness of apple, or the nutty depth of maple and pecan.
No matter the choice, Starbucks’ seasonal menu ensures that autumn always comes with a sip of something cozy.
