As fall comes into full swing, with vibrant foliage, pumpkins adorning doorsteps, Halloween decorations, and the charming brownstones of Beacon Hill, one thing stands out: pumpkin spice. Would it really be fall without it? Once September arrives, cafes bring back their seasonal specials, and the iconic pumpkin spice latte takes center stage, while grocery stores fill their aisles with pumpkin spice treats. It’s the perfect time to embrace all things autumn. As someone who adores this season, I can’t resist indulging in pumpkin spice snacks and lattes. Here are some of my go-to pumpkin spice treats.
Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Teeny Tiny Pretzels and Petite Pumpkin Spice Cookies:
Trader Joe’s never fails to deliver with their seasonal treats, making it the go-to destination for fall foods. One of my favorite autumn snacks is their tiny Pumpkin Spice Yogurt-Covered Pretzels. They strike the perfect balance between salty and sweet, and their small size makes them ideal for a quick snack or for taking on the go. Another must-try is their Pumpkin Shortbread Cookies. These charming pumpkin-shaped cookies are a blend of biscuit and gingerbread, all coated in a pumpkin spice glaze and adorned with fall sprinkles. What I love about both of these snacks is the yogurt coating, beautifully swirled with orange and white, capturing the essence of fall without being overly sweet. They provide a satisfying crunch and are just the right size for popping into your mouth—perfect for enjoying the flavors of the season.
Lesser Evil Pumpkin Spice Popcorn:
Launched in 2021, Lesser Evil introduced their new pumpkin spice-flavored popcorn, adding a delightful twist to their lineup of healthier snack options. Known for prioritizing natural ingredients and offering low-calorie snacks, Lesser Evil is a favorite among health-conscious consumers, often found in stores like Whole Foods. The brand is celebrated for its unique and adventurous flavors, including piña colada, watermelon hibiscus, white chocolate marshmallow, and now, of course, pumpkin spice. While some of their flavors might seem unconventional, they masterfully deliver a subtle yet satisfying taste experience, and their pumpkin spice popcorn is no exception. When I first encountered this popcorn at Whole Foods, I admit I was a bit skeptical. The concept of pumpkin spice in popcorn intrigued me, but I wasn’t sure how the flavors would translate. However, the vibrant orange packaging adorned with festive pumpkin decorations quickly caught my eye, and I decided to give it a try.
When I first opened the package and tried the popcorn, I noticed it was generously sprinkled with a blend of pumpkin spice. If you’re seeking a popcorn option that isn’t overly sweet, this is the perfect choice. The mix features subtly sugared orange popcorn, mixed with pieces that pack a flavorful punch without the heavy sugar coating. This aligns perfectly with Lesser Evil’s philosophy of providing a healthier popcorn experience, focusing on lower sugar content while still satisfying your autumn cravings. Lesser Evil’s pumpkin spice popcorn is a deliciously guilt-free snack that embodies the essence of fall, making it a must-try.
FoMu Caramel Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream:
A plant-based ice cream chain based in Boston, don’t sleep on FoMu. This local chain makes its ice cream from scratch, sourcing from real plant-based ingredients, such as coconut and cashew milk. I stumbled upon their Tremont St. location while walking through the neighborhood. I wanted to check out what they had to offer, and it’s safe to say it has become one of my favorite ice cream spots in Boston. Offering unique seasonal flavors, their autumn specials are Caramel Pumpkin Pie and Apple Cider Donut. Their caramel pumpkin pie ice cream includes real pumpkin, homemade spiced caramel, and gluten-free pie crust. This medley of flavors provides a smooth taste along with different textures and is a perfect light treat that’s not sickeningly sweet. While I highly recommend trying their seasonal specials, I also suggest their Grasshopper Pie flavor as it’s one of my personal favorites.
Flour Bakery + Cafe Pumpkin Spice Latte:
Fall wouldn’t be complete without pumpkin spice lattes, and Flour Bakery + Cafe in Boston will have you head over heels for theirs. If you love a sweet, warm drink, this latte is perfect for you. Their pumpkin spice latte is dusted with a generous serving of spice, featuring hints of cinnamon and other warm flavors. Unlike many other pumpkin spice lattes that subtly hint at the spice, Flour’s version delivers a bold, impactful flavor. At Flour, you can drink the latte there or take it to go, but there’s something special about savoring this hot beverage in a mug. It strikes the perfect balance of sweetness, and the frothiness, along with the generous spice topping, makes it a must-try. They also offer whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. It’s the ideal treat for a chilly day!
Pumpkin spice holds a special place in the realm of fall treats, and it truly wouldn’t be autumn without this beloved staple. What makes it so special is its cozy essence, capturing the warmth and fuzzy feelings of the season, which is why my family and friends and I can’t get enough. Pumpkin spice is timeless, and these spots and treats are essential for anyone craving the sweet appeal of pumpkin spice.