Embracing Autumn: Starbucks Unveils Irresistible Fall Beverage Lineup

As the air begins to cool and leaves transform, many discern the arrival of fall. However, for us, the true marker of autumn is none other than the long-awaited availability of Starbucks’ iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte—and that day has dawned.

Today, the renowned coffee chain unveiled its autumnal menu, reintroducing beloved classics alongside innovative newcomers. The Pumpkin Spice Latte, Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, and Apple Crisp Macchiato have once again graced the shelves, while newcomers like the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte promise novel gustatory adventures.

With such an array of options, our team’s dietitians have undertaken the task of simplifying your choices. Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia, our senior nutrition editor, and Annie Nguyen, M.A., RD, our Pinterest editor, have not only disclosed their personal preferences for the season but have also shared insights into crafting healthier renditions of the new drinks. Here’s a glimpse into their recommendations.

Starting with the classics, Haddad-Garcia is all about the Pumpkin Spice Latte.

“As an avid consumer of hot coffee, the Pumpkin Spice Latte is my ultimate pick, especially as I venture out,” states Haddad-Garcia.

Here are her suggestions to render this seasonal delight a low-sugar alternative.

“To enhance the health quotient of the PSL, I’d forego the whipped cream. Given its milk foam, it will still retain its creamy essence,” she proposes. “Moreover, I’d opt for half the pumps of pumpkin spice sauce to curtail the influx of added sugar.”

Nguyen, on the other hand, is opting for a returning favorite this fall: the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.

“A connoisseur of pumpkin spice and cold beverages, my choice would be the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew for the autumnal feel,” Nguyen discloses. “To curb excessive sweetness, I’d choose a single pump of vanilla syrup, reducing the additive sugar content.” These tips furnish pragmatic strategies to diminish sugar content per sip without forsaking the quintessential pumpkin essence.

Haddad-Garcia’s interests extend to a new entrant as well, piquing her curiosity.

“The Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte holds an allure I can’t resist,” she confesses. “A fusion of opulent, spiced chai and pumpkin spice—an enticing prospect!”

For those keen on the nutritional details of a small Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte:

• 340 calories
• 13 grams total fat
• 8 grams saturated fat
• 120 milligrams sodium
• 52 grams carbohydrates
• 50 grams total sugar
• 8 grams protein

To reduce calories and saturated fat, one can substitute whole milk with plant-based alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk. Though the drink is rife with added sugar, Haddad-Garcia offers advice to halve the content at least.

“I would request a lighter pumpkin cream cold foam and halve the chai pumps,” she asserts.

On a personal note, I recently sampled the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, and it comes highly recommended. Its restrained sweetness wonderfully complements the apple undertones.

For a small Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso:

• 130 calories
• 3.5 grams total fat
• 0 grams saturated fat
• 140 milligrams sodium
• 25 grams carbohydrates
• 15 grams total sugar
• 1 gram protein

Compared to the tea latte, this drink decidedly contains less sugar. Surprisingly low in calories and devoid of saturated fat due to the oat milk, it provides an appealing option. Those aiming to minimize carbs and added sugar can request fewer pumps of apple brown sugar syrup.

In sum, Starbucks’ autumnal coffee and tea offerings sound delectable, and with slight adjustments, they can be enjoyed in a more health-conscious manner. At EatingWell, our belief is that moderation allows any fare or beverage to fit into a wholesome dietary regimen. Therefore, relish these treats this season.