With the onset of fall comes beautiful leaves, cool and crisp breezes, and of course, pumpkin spice lattes. Over the past few years, these seasonal favorites have taken over autumn by storm. From the lattes sparked a craze of pumpkin spice products ranging from delicious candles to even pumpkin spice spam.
The Drink That Started it All
So what is pumpkin spice, and why has it become a worldwide phenomenon? This renowned spice is just a simple blend of the various ingredients that belong in pumpkin pies: ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It smells like Thanksgiving and fall candles, thus giving off a very welcoming and homey feel. That comforting taste and smell has resonated with people over the past few years and has gained massive popularity, as seen from all the crazy pumpkin spice products.
Years back, Starbucks released the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), and fall was subsequently changed forever. The start of fall is no longer signified by the fall equinox, but rather, whenever PSL’s grace the Starbucks’ seasonal menu once again. This leads people to wonder, is it just the hype, or are these PSL’s THAT good?
Is it Worth it?
PSL lovers are very passionate, and asking them if it’s worth it is like opening up a can of worms. However, from an unbiased point of view, there are valid arguments for both sides: Basic and Bomb.
For those who vote “Bomb”, it’s all about the flavor. Drinking and smelling the various spices can give you the joy of eating a pumpkin pie, but for fewer calories. Consuming a PSL gives you that feeling of fall even if you live in Southern California, and it’s still 80 degrees outside. As a mom, PSL’s give off a sense of excitement because they are a reminder that the holidays are coming, which means more time with your kids and family. And of course, it’s the perfect way to jump-start any morning and give you a caffeine boost.
Now it’s time for the “Basic” argument. First of all, “everyone” drinks it and makes it seem like the best thing in the world. This hypes it up so much that some people might be disappointed when they actually go to drink it, and it doesn’t really taste like pumpkin. Another downfall is the price. Even though a Grande PSL at Starbucks comes in at about $5.00, that number adds up quickly if PSL’s become a daily routine. Additionally, these drinks come in at a whopping 380 calories and 50 grams of sugar, which may deter those who watch their calorie and sugar intake.
So Where Does That Leave Us?
If you agree with both arguments of basic and bomb, that may leave you a little confused. Are PSL’s right for you? Should you join the hype or steer clear from it? Well, there might be the perfect solution for you: MAKE YOUR OWN! There are two types of products available that can help save you the calories and money from Starbucks, but also will give you that delicious PSL feel. Pumpkin Spice creamers have started becoming available in stores and online HERE. Additionally, you can buy pre-made Pumpkin Pie Spice HERE that tastes exactly like the real PSL topping at Starbucks.
Whether you are a PSL lover or hater, we can all agree that these special drinks kick start the holiday season and are a subtle reminder of the times with family to come.
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