Pumpkin Spice Lattes (aka the beloved PSLs) are a staple for the fall season which is fast approaching. Sure it’s only July, but we’re already in the fall mood, especially with the release of Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins. PSLs are the perfect addition to any day with the drink’s delicious aroma that’s so cozy and peaceful. A fan favorite is from Starbucks. Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes are made with the coffee chain’s signature espresso and steamed milk with a combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. It’s then topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice.
All my fall lovers out there know what I’m talking about, now that Starbucks has finally released its PSL, we are there!
So when can PSL lovers expect it to appear on Starbucks’ menu again?
Today! The limited edition fall drink is now available on Starbucks menus and you can get the prepackaged beverages and blends at grocery stores too. For the past two years, Starbucks has released the Pumpkin Spice Latte the fourth week of August usually landing between August 21 and 24. MSN expected the drink to drop on August 22 assuming it will drop on the fourth Thursday of the month again — only off by one day, the accuracy is scary, but very much appreciated.
Why do people love PSL?
There is this feeling you get when drinking a PSL. It’s warm and inviting like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket by the fire as the seasons change.
Scientists go a bit deeper though, why does the Pumpkin Spice Latte “cement itself into our minds”? It comes down to the smell. This fall classic’s aromas of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg are a sweet reminder of the season. These scents are a powerful trigger and take a faster route to the piriform cortex which is the part of our brain that is where memory creation happens, according to Inverse. Scents go hand in hand with memories. You can go into any store or coffee shop, smell pumpkin spice, and immediately think of fall.
Customers also have access to candles, laundry detergent, and more that are pumpkin spice scented. It’s a marketing strategy that hooks almost everyone each year and that’s why it’s cemented into our minds — creating this love for the season and flavor like no other.